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Science News for January 14, 2015


People conform to the norm -- even if the norm is a computer

Researchers explored how role-playing video games influence social behavior and decision-making. It was found that people conform to computers' decisions, even in ambiguous cases, due to a tendency towards information conformity and striving for accuracy.

SourceSpringer·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review·DateJan 14, 2015

Better data needed to make good immigration policy

Researchers rely on imputation methods to estimate immigrant populations' legal status and insurance coverage, but these methods may deliver inaccurate results. Inaccurate estimates can lead to planning and implementation of policies with unintended consequences for local groups.

SourcePenn State·JournalDemography·DateJan 14, 2015

Helicopter parenting better for pets than for kids

A new study from UC Berkeley found that neurotic and anxious attachment are positively correlated with better pet care, suggesting that the qualities of 'helicopter parenting' may be beneficial for pets. This is a surprising finding, as it contradicts the traditional approach to raising independent children.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalJournal of Applied Animal Welfare Science·DateJan 14, 2015
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

New non-destructive device measures root growth in smaller plants

A new non-destructive device called the mini-Horhizotron measures plant root growth in greenhouse production, allowing for effective study of treatment and substrate effects. The device provides valuable insight into root growth and development, enabling researchers to investigate factors influencing root growth in container production.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateJan 14, 2015

Long duration weightlessness in space induces a blood shift

Researchers found a higher blood volume shift from the lower to upper body due to weightlessness, with lower blood pressure than anticipated. Blood pressure decreased by 10 mmHg, similar to high blood pressure medication, during long-duration spaceflight.

SourceWiley·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateJan 14, 2015
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Native grasses identified for use in western US urban landscapes

A team of scientists evaluated native fine-leaved Festuca species for potential use in urban landscapes. The study found that tall-statured, multicolored Festuca germplasm shows promise as low-input ornamental grasses in the western United States.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalJournal of the American Society for Horticultural Science·DateJan 14, 2015

CNIO associates rare gene variants with side effects from chemotherapy with paclitaxel

Researchers have identified genetic markers associated with severe neurological toxicity in patients treated with paclitaxel, a highly effective but toxic chemotherapeutic drug. The study found that specific genetic variants can lead to reduced drug excretion and increased toxicity, allowing for personalized treatment risk assessment.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJan 14, 2015

Temporary tattoo offers needle-free way to monitor glucose levels

A temporary tattoo has been developed to extract and measure glucose levels in the fluid between skin cells, offering a promising step forward in noninvasive glucose testing. The device, which uses a flexible sensor, can detect glucose spikes after meals with high accuracy.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateJan 14, 2015

Endocrine Society announces 2015 Laureate Award winners

The Endocrine Society has selected 14 accomplished endocrinologists as winners of the organization's prestigious Laureate Awards. The award recipients include renowned researchers and clinicians recognized for their groundbreaking contributions to the field of endocrinology.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateJan 14, 2015

Jaw mechanics of a shell-crushing Jurassic fish revealed

A University of Bristol undergraduate has uncovered the feeding habits of an ancient fish, Dapedium, which was well-adapted to crush shells. The study reveals that Dapedium's jaws moved slowly but strongly to work on hard-shelled prey, similar to modern sea breams.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPalaeontology·DateJan 14, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Chemical dial controls attraction between water-repelling molecules

The study reveals how polar substances nearby can change the interaction between nonpolar hydrophobic groups, allowing for controlled adhesion or repulsion in water. This discovery may lead to new designs of molecules with useful functions in water-based applications.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature·DateJan 14, 2015

Rainfall can release aerosols, study finds

Researchers at MIT found that raindrops can release aerosols when hitting porous surfaces, trapping tiny air bubbles and bursting them out into the air. This mechanism may explain petrichor, the smell released after a light rain, and potentially spread soil-based diseases.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 14, 2015

DNA 'glue' could someday be used to build tissues, organs

Researchers have created DNA-coated nanoparticles that can hold together 3D-printed materials, forming gel-like substances suitable for human cell growth. This breakthrough could lead to the development of scaffolds for growing tissues and organs.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering·DateJan 14, 2015

Patients with advanced colon cancer having less surgery, better survival

Patients with advanced stage IV colorectal cancer are having fewer surgeries, but still showing improved survival rates due to the advent of more effective chemotherapeutic options and biologic treatments. The median survival rate for these patients has increased from 8.6% in 1988 to 17.8% in 2009.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateJan 14, 2015
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Pitt study links biomarkers to long-term kidney damage and death in critically ill

A Pitt study links biomarkers to long-term kidney damage and death in critically ill, highlighting the importance of early intervention. Researchers found that tissue inhibitor metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2) and IGF-binding protein-7 (IGFBP7) can identify patients at increased risk for adverse outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJan 14, 2015

Designing effective health messages

A new study published in Nutrition Reviews finds that the type of health messaging is more effective depending on the target audience. For those highly involved in the field, negative loss-framed messages are most effective, while positive gain-framed messages resonate with the general public.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalNutrition Reviews·DateJan 14, 2015

Combat veterans' brains reveal hidden damage from IED blasts

A study by Johns Hopkins pathologists identified a unique pattern of injuries in the brains of combat veterans who survived IED blasts and later died. The honeycomb pattern of damaged nerve fibers is distinct from other types of brain injury, suggesting a possible signature of 'shell shock' or blast neurotrauma.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalActa Neuropathologica Communications·DateJan 14, 2015

Researchers discover new 'trick' steroids use to suppress inflammation

Glucocorticoids suppress inflammation by targeting nuclear factor-κB and upregulating IRAK-M, a key negative regulator of inflammatory pathways. The discovery provides new insights into the mechanism of glucocorticoid action and could lead to the development of new therapeutic strategies for controlling overactive inflammation.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 14, 2015
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Stargazers begin hunt for planets

The University of Warwick's Next Generation Transit Survey (NGTS) aims to detect small planets from Neptune size down to twice the size of Earth. Researchers hope to study the atmospheres and composition of these super-Earths, which are thought to be common around other stars.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·DateJan 14, 2015

A twist on planetary origins

Researchers at MIT and Purdue University have found that meteorites are not building blocks of planets, but rather byproducts of a violent planetary process. Computer simulations show that large moon-sized bodies likely existed before chondrules formed, which were then created by collisions of these bodies.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateJan 14, 2015

New study reports worsening health conditions increase risk of mortgage default and disclosure

A new study reveals that worsening health conditions can serve as a predictor to mortgage distress, increasing the risk of default and foreclosure. The study found that middle-aged adults with worsening chronic conditions face nearly twice the risk of mortgage default compared to those without worsening conditions.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateJan 14, 2015
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

New contaminants found in oil and gas wastewater

Duke University scientists have discovered high levels of ammonium and iodide in oil and gas wastewater, exceeding EPA water-quality thresholds. These contaminants can harm aquatic life and promote toxic byproducts in drinking water when mixed with chlorine.

SourceDuke University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 14, 2015

Scientists developing imaging test for autism spectrum disorder

Researchers at Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute have developed a brain-imaging technique that can detect autism spectrum disorder in children. The test, which involves measuring perspective-tracking responses, has shown promising diagnostic potential and may revolutionize the way autism is diagnosed.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateJan 14, 2015

Dehydration common among patients admitted to hospital from care homes

A study published by the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine found that 12% of patients admitted from care homes had high sodium levels, compared to 1% from their own homes. Dehydration is a significant concern for elderly and infirm people who may require assistance with drinking.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateJan 14, 2015

One punch to knock out flu

Researchers at McMaster University have discovered a new class of antibodies that can neutralize a wide range of influenza A viruses, paving the way for a universal flu vaccine. The vaccine would only need to be given once and could protect against all strains of flu, even when the virus mutates.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJournal of Virology·DateJan 14, 2015

Rapid journey through a crystal lattice

Electrons in a crystal lattice move at incredible speeds, with one type of electron traveling at 5000 km/s. By studying the delay between electrons traveling through different atomic layers, researchers gained insight into the behavior of electrons within the crystal's microcosm.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature·DateJan 14, 2015
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Depression, behavioral changes may precede memory loss in Alzheimer's

A recent study published in Neurology found that depression and behavioral changes often occur before memory decline in people with Alzheimer's. Researchers analyzed data from over 2,400 participants and found that those who developed dementia were more likely to exhibit mood swings, including depression and delusions.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNeurology·DateJan 14, 2015

Coenzyme A plays leading role in nitric oxide function so essential to cell metabolism

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University discovered coenzyme A's crucial role in cell metabolism and its regulation of nitric oxide. The study identified hundreds of proteins influenced by coenzyme A-driven protein nitrosylation, with potential implications for understanding disease mechanisms.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 14, 2015

Root hydraulic conductance linked to trees' post-transplant recovery

Researchers found that fine root hydraulic conductance is related to transplant recovery in two Quercus species, with spring transplanting optimal for Quercus bicolor. The study suggests that understanding tree roots' behavior can inform better decisions regarding transplant timing and improve post-transplant recovery.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalJournal of the American Society for Horticultural Science·DateJan 14, 2015

A new step towards using graphene in electronic applications

Researchers have successfully created heterostructures with varying widths of graphene nanoribbons using molecular self-assembly. This breakthrough could lead to the deployment of graphene in commercial electronic applications, taking advantage of its unique properties.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 14, 2015

Improved solar panels and printed electronics on the horizon with new material discovery

Researchers have discovered a highly sought-after material that can lead to vastly improved organic solar cell performance, increasing efficiency from 8% to 9.3%. The new discovery enables the production of cells that are double in thickness and opens up opportunities for the development of new materials with improved performance.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 14, 2015
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Out of the pouch: Ancient DNA from extinct giant roos

Scientists successfully extracted DNA from Australia's extinct giant kangaroos, confirming their close relationship with modern macropods. The study also sheds light on the distinct lineage of short-faced kangaroos and highlights the importance of conservation for endangered species like the banded hare-wallaby.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJan 14, 2015

Lack of exercise responsible for twice as many deaths as obesity

A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that physical inactivity is responsible for twice as many deaths as obesity. The researchers analyzed data from over 334,000 European men and women and found that even a small increase in physical activity can have significant health benefits.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJan 14, 2015

Are all rattlesnakes created equal? No, maybe not

A recent study found significant variation in eastern diamondback rattlesnake venom linked to geography, highlighting the need for tailored antivenom production. In contrast, coral snakes' venom is uniform across their range.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalGenetics·DateJan 14, 2015
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Laser-induced graphene 'super' for electronics

Researchers at Rice University have developed stacked, three-dimensional supercapacitors using laser-induced graphene, which show excellent energy-storage capacity and power potential. The devices can be scaled up for commercial applications and offer flexibility and scalability benefits.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJan 14, 2015
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Depression, behavior changes may start in Alzheimer's even before memory changes

A new study suggests that depression and behavior changes can occur in people with Alzheimer's disease even before they experience memory problems. Researchers analyzed data from 2,416 participants and found that those who developed dementia were more likely to develop depression sooner than those without dementia.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJan 14, 2015

State performance funding falling short in student retention and degree completion

New research found that state performance funding in Washington State did not increase student retention and degree completion, despite being a model for accountability systems. However, short-term certificate programs showed growth in students earning certificates with little value in the labor market.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·JournalEducational Evaluation and Policy Analysis·DateJan 14, 2015

Sweet potato leaves a good source of vitamins

A study published in HortScience confirms that sweet potato leaves are a good source of vitamins, particularly vitamin B6. The research found that young leaves contained the highest levels of ascorbic acid, while mature leaves provided significant amounts of vitamin B6.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateJan 14, 2015
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Does screening asymptomatic adults for disease save lives?

Researchers evaluated 39 screening tests for 19 major diseases and found that only a few tests showed a reduction in disease-specific mortality. Screening for asymptomatic adults has been met with controversy, particularly regarding breast cancer and prostate cancer screening. The study suggests that expectations of major benefits from...

SourceOxford University Press UK·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·DateJan 14, 2015

Experts explore the medical safety needs of civilian space travel

The article discusses the need for medical care practices in commercial space transportation, highlighting different phases of suborbital and orbital missions. The authors suggest defining Medical Levels of Care to account for various types of flight, including motion sickness, emergency equipment, and spacesuits.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalNew Space·DateJan 14, 2015

How to predict responses to disease

A new computer model can forecast population-level behavior during disease outbreaks, including panic reactions and misinformation. The model accurately reproduced the population-level behavior that accompanied three disease outbreaks: H1N1 flu and SARS in Hong Kong.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalInterface·DateJan 14, 2015

Two satellites measured rainfall in Tropical Depression Mekkhala

The two satellites measured significant rainfall in Tropical Depression Mekkhala, indicating the storm's intensification on January 13. The depression strengthened as it headed towards the Philippines, with maximum sustained winds near 30 knots and a circulation that became slightly better defined.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 14, 2015
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

New species discovered beneath ocean crust

Researchers have discovered new microbes beneath the ocean crust that breathe sulfate, breaking down organic material and producing carbon dioxide. These microbes play a vital role in the global carbon cycle, which is being disrupted by human-made carbon dioxide emissions.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateJan 14, 2015

The sound of chirping birds in the control center

Researchers at Bielefeld University have created a system called SoProMon that uses acoustic signals to monitor industrial processes. This approach enables staff to take proactive measures before issues arise, reducing the need for visual monitoring.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalProceedings of the IEEE·DateJan 14, 2015
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Correcting estimates of sea level rise

A Harvard University study reveals that global sea level has accelerated far more than initially thought, with a 30% increase in sea level rise from 1900-1990 compared to previous estimates. The researchers used a new approach to estimate sea level change by accounting for the limitations of existing tide gauge records.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateJan 14, 2015

Love, marriage and town-gown relationships

A new study from Ohio State University finds that community members feel most contact with Ohio State students, highlighting the importance of student engagement. The assessment also reveals the impact of distance on town-gown relationships, suggesting that colleges must make a special effort to reach local communities.

SourceOhio State University·JournalInnovative Higher Education·DateJan 14, 2015

New restoration focus for western dry forests

A study suggests that dry forests in the western US are more threatened by insect outbreaks and droughts than wildfires. Historically, these forests had a mix of large and small trees, providing 'bet-hedging' insurance against multiple disturbances.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateJan 14, 2015

Sustainability challenged as many renewable resources max out

A study by Michigan State University and international partners reveals that 20 renewable resources, such as corn and soy, have reached peak production rates between 1988 and 2008. The researchers warn that relying on substitution to solve shortages may not be effective when multiple resources are running out.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalEcology and Society·DateJan 14, 2015

Atomic placement of elements counts for strong concrete

Researchers Rouzbeh Shahsavari and Saroosh Jalilvand found that atomic-level forces affect the mechanical properties of complex particle-based materials, such as concrete. They suggest new ways to fine-tune chemistry to make concrete less prone to cracking and more suitable for specific applications.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJan 14, 2015
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Debunking aging myths in financial decisions

A new study from Columbia Business School found that 'crystallized intelligence,' gained through experience and accumulated knowledge, is more important than 'fluid intelligence' in making sound financial decisions. The research suggests guidelines for policymakers to help older adults with complex financial decisions.

SourceColumbia Business School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 14, 2015

How cells communicate

The study of zebrafish at the European Zebrafish Resource Center has shown that signaling molecules are transmitted in bundles via long filopodia, influencing signaling properties and tissue development. This precise control enables cells to develop their special structure and function.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 14, 2015

£15.8 million for long-term projects tackling major scientific challenges

The Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council has funded five high-value research projects worth £15.8M to tackle major scientific challenges in health, energy and agriculture. The projects will focus on producing clean energy, developing new medicines and protecting livestock from disease.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·DateJan 14, 2015

HIV/AIDS patients in Deep South have lower survival rates

Research reveals that HIV/AIDS patients in the southern US have significantly lower survival rates compared to other regions. The study found that 15% of people diagnosed with HIV and 27% of those diagnosed with AIDS died within five years of diagnosis.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Community Health·DateJan 14, 2015
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Paradox revealed: Cues associated with infant abuse may help reduce stress in adult brain

Researchers discovered that trauma-related cues from infancy can lower depressive-like behavior in adults, contrary to previous expectations. The study found that these cues altered the brain's serotonin levels, leading to mood uplift and alleviating depression in grown rats.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 14, 2015

Sexual objectification increases women's fear of crime

A study published in Sex Roles found that sexual objectification increases women's fear of face-to-face crime and physical harm. The researchers suggest that challenging social acceptance of sexual objectification can help transform unequal power distributions between men and women, reducing violence against women.

SourceSpringer Science+Business Media·JournalSex Roles·DateJan 14, 2015
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Predicting coral reef futures under climate change

Researchers found that water depth and reef structure can predict coral reef recovery with 98% confidence. The study used nearly 20 years of coral reef data from the Seychelles to identify thresholds for these factors. This prediction can help reef management plan strategies to improve the outlook for reefs.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalNature·DateJan 14, 2015

NIH expands early-stage human testing of infectious disease treatment candidates

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has awarded contracts to three organizations to conduct early-stage human clinical trials for investigational infectious disease treatments. The trials will test the safety of novel drugs against a range of emerging and re-emerging pathogens, including viruses and bacteria.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateJan 14, 2015

Cone snail venom holds promise for medical treatments for cancer and addiction

Researchers at Florida Atlantic University have discovered new compounds in cone snail venom that target alpha3beta4 nicotinic receptors, associated with lung cancer and nicotine addiction. The study aims to develop new treatments for these diseases using marine animal-derived compounds.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJan 14, 2015
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Abscisic acid treatments can prevent tomato blossom-end rot

Research found that abscisic acid (ABA) treatments can increase calcium concentrations in tomato fruit, reducing the risk of blossom-end rot. ABA applications were effective in early stages of plant development, but additional treatments may be needed for later stages.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateJan 14, 2015

Race of the electrons

Scientists have successfully tracked the motion of electrons in metals using laser pulses, achieving attosecond precision. The results demonstrate that electrons travel through metals ballistically, with their arrival times dependent on layer thickness. This breakthrough has significant implications for the miniaturization of electroni...

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature·DateJan 14, 2015

The anatomy of petal drop in sunflowers

Researchers found that cell division at the abscission zone of short-lived sunflower cultivars occurs earlier than in long-lived varieties, leading to earlier petal drop. The study also showed a correlation between flower color and vase life, with darker cultivars having shorter vase life.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalJournal of the American Society for Horticultural Science·DateJan 14, 2015

Mutations linked to repair of chromosome ends may make emphysema more likely in smokers

A new study found that mutations in the telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) gene increase the risk of emphysema in smokers. Female smokers with these mutations may be more susceptible to the disease. The researchers also discovered a link between telomere shortening and other health problems, such as osteoporosis and liver disease.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 14, 2015

'Titin' gene mutations will help identify patients at risk of heart failure

A new study has identified genetic mutations in the titin gene that cause dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a leading cause of inherited heart failure. The study provides information that will help screen high-risk patients and develop therapies to prevent or treat heart disease caused by titin mutations.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 14, 2015
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Wrangling over pesticide ingredients comes to a head in 2015

The EPA's proposed rule aims to disclose all pesticides' inert ingredients, but consumer advocates argue it doesn't go far enough to protect human health and the environment. The fight over regulations dates back nearly a decade, with advocacy groups claiming that many inert ingredients are hazardous to people's health.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJan 14, 2015

US needs harm-reduction approach to drug use, Baker Institute researcher says

A harm-reduction approach prioritizes minimizing harm from drug use for individuals and society, rather than solely focusing on punishment. This approach encompasses a range of objectives, including preventing overdose, treating addiction, and reducing the spread of diseases like HIV and hepatitis C.

SourceRice University·JournalWorld Medical & Health Policy·DateJan 14, 2015

Shoulder to the wheel: Parental intervention improves teen driving

A new study by Tel Aviv University researchers proposes a two-pronged strategy of vigilant parental intervention and monitoring technology to reduce risks involved in adolescent driving. The research found that the combined technological monitoring plus intervention was most effective for drivers who exhibited the riskiest behavior.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Adolescence·DateJan 14, 2015
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.