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Science News Archive March 2014 - Page 3


Page 3 of 34

Study compares heart valve systems

A recent study published in JAMA compared two types of heart valve technologies used in transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) procedures. The researchers found that balloon-expandable valves had a higher rate of device success, with lower rates of complications such as regurgitation and the need for additional surgeries.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMar 30, 2014

Earth's dynamic interior

Researchers have developed new simulations that depict the dynamics of deep Earth, revealing a complex composition of the lowermost part of the mantle. The study suggests that mantle plumes can carry a combination of different materials from several reservoirs, explaining observations of hotspot lavas' chemical complexity.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMar 30, 2014

The Atlantic Ocean dances with the sun and volcanoes

Researchers at Aarhus University found a correlation between Atlantic Ocean temperature fluctuations and external forces like the Sun's energy cycle and volcanic eruptions since the Little Ice Age. This challenges previous theories of internal variability in ocean circulation, suggesting a complex interaction between mechanisms.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 30, 2014

Are statins good for your love life?

Researchers found that statins significantly improve erectile function in men with both high cholesterol and erectile dysfunction. Erectile function scores increased by 24.3% in men taking statins, outperforming lifestyle modifications. The study suggests that statins may help improve blood flow to the penis and reduce symptoms of ED.

UNC researchers show cancer chemotherapy accelerates 'molecular aging'

Researchers measured p16 levels before, after and a year after chemotherapy to determine its impact on molecular aging. The study found that curative chemotherapy increased molecular age by an equivalent of 15 years in breast cancer patients. This suggests the p16 test may help evaluate treatment effects on long-term health and survival.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMar 28, 2014

Researchers develop technique to measure engineered nanomaterials delivered to cells

Scientists at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health have discovered a technique to accurately determine the amount of nanomaterials interacting with cells and tissues. The Volumetric Centrifugation Method (VCM) enables hazard rankings of engineered nanoparticles, enabling risk assessors to perform accurate assessments.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 28, 2014