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Science News for July 30, 2014


Scientists call for new strategy in pursuit of HIV-free generation

Infants born to HIV-infected mothers are at risk due to limited access to formula and breastfeeding challenges. Researchers advocate for immune-based interventions, including vaccines and nutritional supplements, to prevent postnatal HIV-1 transmission. The development of novel prophylaxis strategies is crucial to achieving an HIV-free...

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Microbiology·DateJul 30, 2014

Older adults are at risk of financial abuse

A study of over 4,100 New York State residents aged 60+ found that 2.7% were financially exploited in the past year, with 78% having their money or property stolen. Family members, particularly adult children, are the most common perpetrators.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJul 30, 2014

Chinese mosquitos on the Baltic Sea

Ancient insect inclusions in Baltic Sea amber reveal a surprising similarity with Asian forms, dating back 40-50 million years. This discovery fills a long-standing gap in the understanding of species migration between continents.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 30, 2014

Our genes have made us susceptible to atherosclerosis, while our environment determines its speed and severity

A study published in Global Heart explores the prevalence of atherosclerosis across ancient populations, revealing that genetic susceptibility is present in all cultures. Environmental factors such as diet, lifestyle, and physical activity play a crucial role in determining when and how quickly atherosclerosis develops.

SourceWorld Heart Federation·JournalGlobal Heart·DateJul 30, 2014

Many depressed preschoolers still suffer in later school years

A new study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that depressed preschoolers are more likely to suffer from depression in elementary and middle school years. The researchers followed 246 children and found that those diagnosed with depression as preschoolers were 2.5 times more likely to develop the condition later on.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateJul 30, 2014

Fear of losing money, not spending habits, affects investor risk tolerance, MU study finds

A recent study at the University of Missouri-Columbia found that investors' willingness to take risks is primarily driven by their fear of losing money, rather than spending habits. The researchers analyzed data from a risk tolerance survey and found that loss aversion plays a significant role in shaping investors' risk tolerance.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalFinancial Services Review·DateJul 30, 2014

Dimly lit working environments: Correcting your body clock is possible!

Researchers at Inserm found that artificial light with blue wavelengths can synchronize the body clock and activate non-visual functions in extreme lighting conditions. This breakthrough has practical applications for dimly lit workplaces, enabling design of lighting strategies to maintain staff health, productivity, and safety.

New catalyst converts carbon dioxide to fuel

Researchers have synthesized a catalyst that improves their system for converting waste carbon dioxide into syngas, a precursor of gasoline and other energy-rich products. The new catalyst uses molybdenum disulfide and an ionic liquid to reduce carbon dioxide in a chemical reaction, improving efficiency and lowering cost.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 30, 2014

Chronic infection, smoke inhalation, or yet to be discovered causes could explain why ancient men and women had atherosclerosis

Research suggests that ancient cultures may have been plagued by atherosclerosis due to chronic infection, inflammation, or exposure to smoke. The study of mummies from various cultures reveals a high incidence of the disease, which contradicts the expectation that modern lifestyles are the primary cause.

SourceWorld Heart Federation·JournalGlobal Heart·DateJul 30, 2014

Deep-sea octopus has longest-known egg-brooding period

A deep-sea octopus has been found to protect and nourish its eggs for an astonishing 53 months, with 160 eggs hatching almost 4.5 years later. This record-breaking brooding period highlights the importance of parental care in producing well-developed offspring in challenging environments.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 30, 2014

F1000Research brings static research figures to life

The article introduces a proof-of-concept figure that generates data 'on the fly' when an online article is viewed. Readers can select parameters to alter the generated figure, allowing for self-evaluation of the data. This innovation aims to improve transparency and reproducibility in scientific publishing.

SourceFaculty of 1000·JournalF1000Research·DateJul 30, 2014

Finding quantum lines of desire

Researchers use a superconducting quantum device to record and analyze the paths a quantum system takes between two states, revealing the existence of a quantum equivalent of classical 'least action' path. The findings have implications for controlling biological and chemical systems using lasers.

NSF grant to Wayne State supports new concept for manufacturing nanoscale devices

A Wayne State University professor has received a $330,000 NSF grant to explore a novel method for manufacturing nanoscale devices using solution-based processes and inexpensive raw materials. The research aims to overcome the current bottleneck in scaling up nanotechnology by connecting different functional materials into one device.

Vocal variety in African penguins

Researchers studied the vocal behavior of African penguins, identifying four basic vocalizations used by adults for communication. Juveniles and chicks also have distinct begging calls to request food. The study provides valuable insights into the vocal repertoire of endangered seabirds.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 30, 2014

A blood test for suicide?

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have discovered a genetic alteration linked to stress reactions that could lead to suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The study suggests that a blood test based on this finding may be able to identify individuals at increased risk of suicide attempts, allowing for early intervention and prevention.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateJul 30, 2014

New malaria vaccine candidates identified

Researchers discovered new vaccine targets that could help combat malaria by identifying previously untested antigens and gaining insights into antigen combination. A group of infected children was followed over six months to identify combinations of antibodies providing up to 100% protection against clinical episodes.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 30, 2014