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Science News for January 23, 2020


Chemist and nanoscientist Chad Mirkin receives 2020 AAAS Philip Hauge Abelson Prize

Mirkin is being honored for multiple contributions to the fields of chemistry and nanoscience, including the discovery and development of spherical nucleic acids (SNAs) with unique chemical and physical properties. He has also invented and developed scanning probe-based tools and techniques that allow researchers to pattern nanostructu...

Taking aim at gastric cancer

FerriIridium, a novel drug, can diagnose and treat gastric cancer by selectively activating in tumor cells. The iron-based compound reduces side effects by targeting cancer cell mitochondria, leading to their destruction.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 23, 2020

Warmer, dryer, browner

The 2018 Four Corners drought in the US was exacerbated by human-induced warming, with temperatures rising 2 degrees Celsius. The region's vegetation turned brown due to increased evaporation, resulting in economic losses of over $3 billion and impacts on Native American communities.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateJan 23, 2020

ICUs receive higher satisfaction scores for end-of-life care than other hospital units

A new study found that intensive care units (ICUs) have better end-of-life care ratings than other hospital departments, contrary to previous beliefs. The research suggests that higher staffing ratios and more favorable symptom management in ICUs contribute to these improved outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJan 23, 2020

Global warming could have a negative impact on biodiversity generation processes

A recent study published in Journal of Systematics and Evolution suggests that global warming could negatively impact the processes that generate biodiversity. The research focuses on the evolutionary success of Carex, a genus with over 2000 species, which is favored by cold climates during the past 10 million years.

SourceUniversidad Pablo de Olavide UPO·JournalJournal of Systematics and Evolution·DateJan 23, 2020

Kidney structural features from living donors predict transplant failure in recipients

Research found subtle structural features of donated kidneys, such as scarring and hardening of vessels, are associated with shorter kidney lifespan after transplantation. These findings may help clinicians evaluate organ quality at time of donation and identify potential predictors of transplant failure.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJan 23, 2020

Pride and prejudice at high altitude

A new study suggests that attitudes towards altitude sickness began to form over 200 years ago, with British explorers fueling distrust towards Himalayan peoples. The early 19th-century writings of British surveyors and travellers reveal a complex web of exploitation and competition between Europeans and locals.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalItinerario·DateJan 23, 2020

When caregivers need care

A recent study by the American Psychological Association found that caregivers are more likely to neglect their own health due to cost concerns. The study revealed a significant gap in healthcare access and utilization among caregivers, with 26% having no insurance coverage compared to non-caregivers.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalRehabilitation Psychology·DateJan 23, 2020

Turtle tracking reveals key feeding grounds

A study tracked female loggerheads from Mediterranean rookeries, revealing three key feeding areas: Adriatic, Tunisian Plateau and eastern Mediterranean. The research highlights the importance of protecting these habitats to conserve turtle populations threatened by bycatch and human activities.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalDiversity and Distributions·DateJan 23, 2020

URI biologist provides framework for national invasive species policy, implementation

A special issue of Biological Invasions co-edited by Laura Meyerson and Daniel Simberloff offers a comprehensive framework for a national early detection and rapid response program to address the growing threat of invasive species. The papers outline technical guidance for implementation, including technology advancement, risk screenin...

SourceUniversity of Rhode Island·JournalBiological Invasions·DateJan 23, 2020

Low-dose aspirin may reduce preterm birth risk among first-time mothers

A large clinical trial has found that low-dose aspirin daily from early pregnancy to 36 weeks may lower the risk for preterm birth among first-time mothers by 11%. The study involved over 11,000 women in several low- and middle-income countries and showed a significant reduction in preterm delivery before 37 weeks.

New understanding of condensation could lead to better power plant condenser, de-icing materials

New research shows that the slipperiness between droplets and solid surfaces is more critical for clearing condensation than previously thought. The findings could lead to cost-effective alternatives to water-repellent materials, such as ceramic or metal surfaces, which could last longer and be more durable.

A megalibrary of nanoparticles

Researchers at Penn State have developed a method to produce over 65,000 different types of nanoparticles, each containing up to six different materials. This breakthrough allows for the creation of complex particles with precise interfaces, opening up new possibilities for electrical and optical applications.

SourcePenn State·JournalScience·DateJan 23, 2020

Jewel beetles' sparkle helps them hide in plain sight

Researchers found that jewel beetles' bright colors can act as a form of camouflage, outperforming dull-colored counterparts in detection avoidance. The ability to remain hidden became even more pronounced when the iridescent wing cases were placed against a glossy leaf background.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 23, 2020

Low/no calorie sweeteners can make a useful contribution to public health strategies

A new scientific report by Ashwell et al. suggests that low/no calorie sweeteners are safe, have no adverse effect on blood glucose regulation, and can help reduce net calorie intake. The experts agree that these sweeteners can be a useful contribution to public health strategies aimed at reducing obesity and diabetes risk.

SourceInternational Sweeteners Association (ISA)·JournalNutrition Research Reviews·DateJan 23, 2020

Women with PCOS experience poor health and quality of life beyond reproductive years

A new study by The Endocrine Society reveals that women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) suffer from poor health and quality of life in their late forties, primarily due to ongoing mental health concerns. Women with PCOS have lower life satisfaction and poorer health compared to those without the condition.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJan 23, 2020

Researchers uncover the genomics of health

Researchers have compiled a genome reference database of thousands of healthy older Australians, providing a powerful framework to identify new disease-causing gene variants. The database shows genetic changes associated with ageing, including shorter telomeres and less mitochondrial DNA, which may predict health outcomes for individuals.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 23, 2020

Teens with obesity and PCOS have more 'unhealthy' bacteria

Research published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that teens with obesity and PCOS have an altered gut microbiome compared to those without the condition. This altered microbiome is associated with higher testosterone levels, metabolic complications, and other health risks.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJan 23, 2020