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Science News for August 14, 2008


Towards understanding bluetongue outbreaks

A recent study identified a bluetongue virus strain that originated in sub-Saharan Africa, rather than Europe. The discovery was made through multi-centre sequence analysis of the full genome of the virus strain and its comparison to other BTV strains.

SourceElsevier·JournalVirology·DateAug 14, 2008

Nothing stops an expert in the art of living

Researchers Dagmar Voigt and Stanislav Gorb from the Max-Planck Institute for Metals Research discovered that mirid bugs' non-stick surface disrupts the adhesive properties of Roridula gorgonias' glue. The team found that the mirid bug's greasy coating prevents the glue from adhering to its surface, allowing it to evade capture.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateAug 14, 2008

Toxoplasmosis found more severe in Brazil compared to Europe

A recent study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases found Brazilian children are five times more likely to develop eye lesions by four years old, with vision compromised in 87% of cases. The researchers believe infection with virulent genotypes prevalent in Brazil contribute to the severity of clinical symptoms.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateAug 14, 2008

JCI online early table of contents: Aug. 14, 2008

Researchers at Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne and University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have identified a protein called Hsp104 that dramatically reduces alpha-synuclein aggregation and dopaminergic degeneration in a rat model of Parkinson's disease. The study suggests that Hsp104 could be considered as a potential st...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 14, 2008

Americans spending, gambling, saving

New studies examine the link between consumer behavior and emotional well-being, finding that value seekers are happiest, while non-spenders and experiencers are also more content. Additionally, researchers discovered that moderate-income gamblers, known as 'big fish,' are at high risk of financial and psychological trouble.

Rheb's role in cancer

Researchers found Rheb overexpression is sufficient to induce low-grade prostate neoplasias and contributes to lymphoma formation. Targeted inhibition of Rheb shows promise in counteracting tumor progression in both cancers.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateAug 14, 2008

Teens underestimate risk, overestimate vehicle, highway safety in motor vehicle accidents

Research reveals teens' flawed attitudes towards trauma-related injuries, prioritizing fate over choice. Program participation improved risk perception, but knowledge decayed over time. Emotional connections with injured peers and reflection components played a crucial role in sustaining long-term changes.

SourceWeber Shandwick Worldwide·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateAug 14, 2008