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Science News for December 16, 2019


Limiting the loss of nature

A University of Queensland-led team proposes a global goal to limit the loss of nature by setting a 'no net loss' target for natural ecosystems. The researchers considered socioeconomic factors across 170 countries and recognized the need for equitable contributions to conservation and restoration.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateDec 16, 2019

Asthma severity linked to microbiome of upper airway

Researchers found that children with mild to moderate asthma who experienced worsening symptoms had distinct bacterial groups in their upper airways, while those with well-controlled asthma had different bacteria. Altering the airway microbiome could potentially help patients with asthma.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 16, 2019

Study finds flirting among coworkers can reduce stress

A new study from Washington State University found that employees who experience friendly and light-hearted flirtation at work tend to feel better about themselves and have lower stress levels. The research suggests that overly restrictive policies on workplace sexual behavior may be missing the mark and could even make situations worse.

SourceWashington State University·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·DateDec 16, 2019

Survey shows link between psychological safety and use of infection prevention practices

A survey of US acute care hospitals found that those with high psychological safety levels were more likely to adopt infection prevention practices requiring staff to speak up and challenge customs. This association suggests that creating a psychologically safe environment can enhance the effectiveness of infection control programs.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateDec 16, 2019

The uncertain role of natural gas in the transition to clean energy

A new MIT study examines the opposing roles of natural gas in the battle against climate change, as a bridge toward a lower-emissions future and a contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. To meet greenhouse gas reduction targets over the coming decade, present methods of controlling methane leakage would have to improve by 30-90 percent.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateDec 16, 2019

Laser-based prototype probes cold atom dynamics

Researchers develop a new industrial laser system to study cold atom dynamics in space. By doubling the frequencies of widely used telecommunications lasers, their design enables accurate measurements of subtle variations in the Earth's gravitational field.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateDec 16, 2019

A new gene therapy strategy, courtesy of Mother Nature

Scientists have developed a new gene-therapy technique using exosomes to communicate with other cells, which has shown promising results in slowing tumor growth and prolonging survival in mice with gliomas. The technology relies on patented technology that prompts human cells to produce nanocarriers containing a drug.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateDec 16, 2019

All roads lead to migraine

A recent study published in Cephalalgia found that calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and sildenafil both provoke migraine attacks in patients, with no differences in clinical characteristics. The study suggests that these drugs may act through a single molecular pathway, offering potential for new preventive therapeutics.

SourceInternational Headache Society·JournalCephalalgia·DateDec 16, 2019

Cold-flu interactions

Researchers analyzed respiratory illness cases and found competition between respiratory viruses may explain declining common cold infections during winter. This finding can help improve forecasting and understanding of circulation trends and infection risks.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 16, 2019

How minds make meaning

The mind composes meanings from separate words through a dynamic interaction between brain regions, using multi-modal cues. Humans and artificial intelligence systems differ in representing meaning, with humans using contextual knowledge and emotional cues.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateDec 16, 2019

Orca predation and salmon body size

A study by Jan Ohlberger and colleagues found that orca predation contributes to more rapid growth, earlier maturation, and a 9% decrease in Chinook salmon body size. The impact is particularly pronounced on larger, older fish, highlighting the need for reconciling marine mammal conservation with management of Chinook salmon populations.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 16, 2019

Free tool simplifies cancer research

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a new tool that provides more reliable and precise results in identifying protein targets for cancer drugs. The tool uses a database of experimentally determined data to analyze the effects of different drugs on various types of cancer cells.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 16, 2019

Unveiling a new map that reveals the hidden personalities of jobs

A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences has created a data-driven 'vocation compass' that suggests different occupations tend to have distinct personality profiles. The research used Twitter data to group similar jobs together, revealing that software programmers and scientists are often open to exp...

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 16, 2019

Fish consumption and mercury exposure in pregnant women in coastal Florida

A study conducted by Florida Atlantic University's Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute found that pregnant women in coastal Florida have higher mercury concentrations in their hair due to fish consumption, particularly from the Indian River Lagoon. The study also highlighted the importance of education on safe seafood sources and spe...

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateDec 16, 2019

Hydrogels control inflammation to help healing

Researchers have developed injectable hydrogels that can tune the body's inflammatory response, promoting or reducing inflammation as needed. The study found that positively charged hydrogels triggered stronger responses for wound-healing and cancer treatment, while negatively charged gels were better suited for drug delivery.

SourceRice University·JournalBiomaterials·DateDec 16, 2019

Spinning inequality

A study published in BMJ found that papers with male lead authors were up to 21% more likely to use positive framing in titles and abstracts, resulting in 13% more citations. This disparity affects not only research perception but also career advancement for female scientists.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 16, 2019

What happens to gold nanoparticles in cells?

Researchers found gold nanoparticles undergo significant transformations after a few weeks in cellular environments. They revealed mechanisms of detoxification and cell protection, also seen in the degradation of other nanomaterials.

SourceCNRS·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 16, 2019

Connecting the prehistoric past to the global future

Research reveals that current patterns of tropical and subtropical mammal diversity are shaped by both past and present climate and human impacts, with specific effects varying by region. The study found that legacies of the ancient past continue to structure patterns of life on Earth today.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 16, 2019

Case Western Reserve researchers discover critical link to controlling inflammation in Crohn's disease

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have discovered a crucial connection between interleukin-1α and gut microbiome function in a mouse model of Crohn's disease. Blocking this protein reduces intestinal inflammation severity, with effects comparable to steroids, which are the current gold standard treatment.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 16, 2019

Study finds African Americans with cancer at higher risk for blood clots

Researchers from Boston University School of Medicine identified a three times higher incidence of VTE among African American patients compared to Caucasian patients. The study also found that African American patients were more likely to develop VTE in certain cancer types such as lung, gastric (stomach) and colorectal.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Oncology·DateDec 16, 2019

Evidence suggests previously unrecognized latex allergies may play role in equine asthma

Research suggests previously unrecognized latex allergies could play a role in equine asthma. Studies applied microarray platforms to determine precise allergens within stable dust that elicit the condition. Latex proteins were found among the most significant allergens associated with equine asthma, alongside Aspergillus fumigatus.

SourceMorris Animal Foundation·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 16, 2019

Consumption of chili pepper cuts down the risk of death from a heart or cerebral attack

A recent Italian study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that regular chili pepper consumption reduces mortality risk for cardiac and cerebrovascular causes. The study, conducted on 23,000 people, shows a 40% reduction in heart attack risk and more than half a reduction in cerebral vascular mortality.

SourceIstituto Neurologico Mediterraneo Neuromed I.R.C.C.S.·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateDec 16, 2019

Developing next-generation biologic pacemakers

Researchers have developed biologic pacemaker-like cells using stem cells from fat, offering an alternative treatment for conduction system disorders and cardiac repair after a heart attack. The new cell type can adapt to the body and respond to physiological changes, eliminating the need for regular maintenance by a physician.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalJournal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology·DateDec 16, 2019

How do silt and sand differ when going with the flow?

Researchers at Rice University discovered that a specific grain size can control the movement of silt and sand in rivers, with no correlation to water speed. This finding has significant implications for understanding sediment transport and its impact on coastlines and deltas.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 16, 2019

Fossil shells reveal both global mercury contamination and warming when dinosaurs perished

A new study found that fossilized shells from around the globe show evidence of both rapid ocean warming and elevated mercury levels during the Deccan Traps volcanic eruptions. The findings suggest that the mass extinction event that killed off dinosaurs may have been triggered by both asteroid impact and massive volcanic eruptions.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 16, 2019

Children allergic to cow's milk smaller and lighter

A longitudinal study of children with persistent food allergies found those allergic to cow's milk were smaller and weighed less than their peers with peanut/tree nut allergies, persisting into early adolescence. The study suggests young adults with persistent cow's milk allergy may not reach full growth potential.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateDec 16, 2019

Home hospital care proves an effective and cost-effective alternative to hospital care for selected

A randomized controlled trial found that substitutive home hospital care reduced costs, decreased health care use, and 30-day readmissions compared to traditional hospital care. The study also showed improved physical activity among patients receiving home hospital care. This model could transform how acute care is delivered in the US.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 16, 2019

Paper: Cultural variables influence consumer demand for private-label brands

Researchers found that low-status consumers prefer national brands over private-label equivalents due to their desire for 'heightened status.' However, enhancing the prestige of private-label brands may successfully attract these consumers. The study has implications for private-label marketers targeting developing markets.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Business Research·DateDec 16, 2019

Decoding mathematical mystery of interlocking shells

Researchers have created a mathematical model that explains how the interlocking edges of oyster shells develop physically, revealing a complex interplay between geometry and mechanical forces. The study suggests that a toothed or wavy edge occurs when the mantle grows faster than the shell edge, causing it to buckle.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 16, 2019

Study examines causes of death in US breast cancer survivors

A large US population-based analysis found that breast cancer survivors face significant non-cancer-related deaths, including heart diseases and Alzheimer's. Most deaths occurred within 10 years of diagnosis, with patients at higher risk for chronic liver disease and other conditions compared to the general population.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateDec 16, 2019

Material demand in China's provinces

Research reveals significant differences in material footprints across Chinese provinces, with some having levels similar to those of medium-high income countries. Provincial development disparities highlight the need for targeted policy efforts to reduce material intensity and prevent outsourcing of resource extraction activities.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 16, 2019

Lazy moths taste disgusting

A recent study found that less appetizing moths are more relaxed when attacked by bats, while more palatable ones employ evasive maneuvers. The research demonstrates complex risks and rewards of anti-predator strategies, potentially allowing scientists to predict the behaviors of rare or extinct species.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateDec 16, 2019

Turning to genetics to treat little hearts

A team of researchers has identified the ADAMTS19 gene as a key player in aortic valve disease, a common congenital condition affecting two percent of the population. The study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms behind the disease and could lead to more effective treatments.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 16, 2019

Celebrated ancient Egyptian woman physician likely never existed, says researcher

CU Anschutz researcher reveals that the story of Merit Ptah, a celebrated ancient Egyptian woman physician, was fabricated from a misunderstanding of historical records. Peseshet, an Old Kingdom courtier's mother, bears a striking resemblance to Merit Ptah and may have been mistakenly identified as the 'first woman doctor'.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of the History of Medicine and Allied Sciences·DateDec 16, 2019

New health insurance insights

A new study analyzes the value of Medicaid for low-income adults in Oregon, finding they value it at a fraction of their medical costs. The study suggests that Medicaid effectively acts as a subsidy for healthcare providers and state programs covering uninsured patients.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Political Economy·DateDec 16, 2019

Heart-healthy diets are naturally low in dietary cholesterol and can help to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke

The American Heart Association suggests focusing on an overall heart-healthy dietary pattern that replaces saturated fats with polyunsaturated fats to maintain healthy LDL cholesterol levels. A nutrient-rich diet emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources can help reduce the risk of heart disease.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateDec 16, 2019

Cancer Prevention and Control Research Network produces supplemental issue of Preventive Medicine

The Cancer Prevention and Control Research Network has published a supplemental issue of Preventive Medicine highlighting disparities in cancer prevention and control. The research findings report on factors contributing to rural disparities and strategies to improve equity in cancer screening rates.

Ancient events are still impacting mammals worldwide

Researchers discovered that events from 20,000 years ago or more are still impacting the diversity and distribution of mammal species globally. The study found that historic climate does a better job than current climate in explaining present biodiversity patterns.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 16, 2019

Birds' seasonal migrations shift earlier as climate changes, new research shows

A new study analyzed 2 decades of migration data and found that spring migrants were likely to pass certain stops earlier now than they would have 20 years ago. The researchers also found that temperature and migration timing were closely aligned, with the greatest changes in migration timing occurring in the regions warming most rapidly.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalNature Climate Change·DateDec 16, 2019