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Science News for June 2, 2017


Frailer patients at much greater risk of institutional care and death after discharge from hospital

A recent study found that frail patients are almost twice as likely to die in the year following critical care admission, with nearly 40% dying within one year. Additionally, frail patients were more than twice as likely to need institutional care and become increasingly dependent after discharge from hospital.

Tumor induction from a distance

A study by researchers at the University of Freiburg found that activation of FOXO can induce tumors in stem cells without initial DNA damage. The team discovered that signals inducing this cancer come from surrounding tissues, including epidermis.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJun 2, 2017

STD treatment for 2?

Researchers found that disease incidence in states with prohibitive EPT legislation grew significantly faster than in states where EPT was allowed. States with EPT laws may see reduced rates of chlamydia infections, with an average increase of 14.1 cases per 100,000 people.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalSexually Transmitted Infections·DateJun 2, 2017

DIY crystal-makers get refurbished online cookbook

Materials scientists at Duke University have resurrected an online cookbook of crystalline structures, featuring 288 entries with data on symmetry, properties, and unit cells. The revamped website provides a flexible platform for researchers to explore and create new materials.

SourceDuke University·JournalComputational Materials Science·DateJun 2, 2017

Gene therapy could 'turn off' severe allergies

Researchers have successfully 'turned off' the immune response that causes allergic reactions in animals using gene therapy. The treatment, which targets specific immune cells, has shown promise in de-sensitizing the immune system to proteins, potentially treating severe allergies like asthma and peanut allergies.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalJCI Insight·DateJun 2, 2017

Scientists design molecular system for artificial photosynthesis

Researchers have designed a molecular system that incorporates individual components specialized for light absorption, charge separation, and catalysis into a single supramolecule. The seven-metal system with six Ru centers produces more hydrogen and remains stable for longer periods than the four-metal system with three Ru centers.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 2, 2017

Census shows which mammals survive in forests surrounded by sugarcane plantations

A census of medium and large mammals found in 22 forest remnants surrounded by sugarcane plantations in São Paulo State, Brazil revealed that 90% of expected species were recorded. The study found rare animals such as the giant armadillo not present, but generalist species like white-eared opossums adapted to disturbed environments.