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Science News for November 21, 2014


Research shows anti-HIV medicines can cause damage to fetal hearts

A study published in AIDS reveals that anti-HIV medications may cause significant long-term heart problems in non-HIV-infected children. The research found persistently impaired heart muscle development and reduced heart performance in these children, highlighting the need for further investigation into the long-term impact of HIV medi...

Not all baseball stars treated equally in TV steroid coverage, says study of network news

A study of network news coverage found that Barry Bonds received more negative stories about his alleged steroid use than Mark McGwire and Rafael Palmeiro. The research also showed that Bonds' stories were more likely to focus on his using steroids for a competitive edge, rather than rehabilitation from injury.

Rare new species of plant: Stachys caroliniana

A rare new plant species, Stachys caroliniana, has been discovered in two locations near Charleston, S.C., with the discovery shedding light on its unique characteristics. The species was found to be different from its closest relatives, which are commonly known as hedge-nettles or woundworts.

SourceUniversity of South Carolina·JournalJournal of the Botanical Research Institute of Texas·DateNov 21, 2014

Fiddler on the roof?

Climate change may be causing fiddler crabs to move further north in the US East Coast, with one scientist discovering a crab nearly 50 miles north of its usual range. This warming trend could lead to changes in ecosystems as new species are introduced.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalJournal of Crustacean Biology·DateNov 21, 2014

Trouble with your boss? Own it

A recent study by Michigan State University found that employee motivation increases when workers and their supervisors share similar views on the quality of their relationship, even if the relationship is poor. This discovery suggests that being honest about one's feelings can lead to better work engagement and performance.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateNov 21, 2014

Obesity-attributable absenteeism among US workers costs the nation more than $8 billion annually

A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health estimates that obesity-attributable absenteeism among US workers costs the nation more than $8 billion annually, with state-level costs ranging from $14.4 million in Wisconsin to $907 million in California.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine·DateNov 21, 2014

New terahertz device could strengthen security

Researchers at Northwestern University developed a compact terahertz radiation source that operates at room temperature, offering improved security detection capabilities. The device has a wide frequency coverage and can detect explosives, chemical agents, and biological substances from safe distances.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateNov 21, 2014