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Science News Archive July 2014 - Page 2


Page 2 of 34

NYU CDUHR researchers look at prescription opioid abuse among young adults in NYC

A study by NYU CDUHR researchers found that peer group dynamics play a significant role in facilitating the transition from oral and/or intranasal prescription opioid (PO) use to heroin injection. Nonmedical PO users are at high risk of acquiring HIV and/or HCV through injection and sexual risk behaviors associated with drug use.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Substance Abuse Treatment·DateJul 31, 2014

Shrinking dinosaurs evolved into flying birds

Researchers discovered that the theropod dinosaur lineage, which gave rise to modern birds, underwent an unprecedented phase of shrinking and evolutionary innovation. This transformation allowed bird ancestors to adapt to new environments, such as climbing trees and flying, ultimately helping them survive a deadly meteorite impact.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalScience·DateJul 31, 2014

Spin diagnostics

Physicists at the Joint Quantum Institute have developed an MRI-like diagnostic technique for studying large ensembles of interacting quantum spins. The method reveals spin-spin interaction strengths and energies of various configurations, offering insights into complex phenomena like magnetism.

SourceJoint Quantum Institute·JournalScience·DateJul 31, 2014

Researchers uncover clues to flu's mechanisms

The study reveals how hemagglutinin protein reconfigures itself as it infects host cells, providing new insights into the path of the flu virus. This understanding could lead to the development of a universal flu vaccine that lasts a lifetime.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 31, 2014

Scripps Research Institute scientists find new calorie-burning switch in brown fat

Researchers at The Scripps Research Institute have identified a signaling pathway that activates the powerful calorie-burning process in brown fat cells. The study found that a protein called GADD45γ works alongside PGC-1α to boost thermogenesis, offering new possibilities for treating obesity and diabetes.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 31, 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