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Science News for April 27, 2018


A powerful laser breakthrough

A new technique enhances power output of single-mode lasers, enabling terahertz spectroscopy applications. The technique introduces a hybrid second- and fourth-order Bragg grating in the laser's optical cavity.

SourceLehigh University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 27, 2018

Researchers map the potential spread of yellow fever virus to cities around the world

A new study led by St. Michael's Hospital maps the potential risk of yellow fever virus spread to cities around the world, analyzing travel patterns and environmental conditions. The research highlights the need for countries to reexamine their policies to prevent yellow fever virus importation, protect travelers, and prevent exportation.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalBulletin of the World Health Organization·DateApr 27, 2018

First ever risk tool predicts readmission rates for patients after undergoing TAVR

A new study developed a novel risk tool to predict 30-day readmission rates in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The tool calculates a score based on several variables, including chronic kidney disease, anemia, and discharge disposition, with a c-statistic of 0.63.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateApr 27, 2018

Culprit vessel-only strategy has lower mortality rates compared to routine MVI

A contemporary real-world analysis of culprit vessel-only intervention (CVI) versus multivessel intervention (MVI) in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and cardiogenic shock (CS) found lower mortality rates for CVI. The study, presented at the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions 2018 Scientific Sessio...

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateApr 27, 2018

Parents may help prep kids for healthier, less violent relationships

Researchers found that positive family climate and effective parenting strategies during adolescence can lead to better problem-solving skills and less-violent romantic relationships as young adults. Positive engagement with parents is also associated with feelings of love and connection in young adult relationships.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Youth and Adolescence·DateApr 27, 2018

Contemporary update to PROGRESS-CTO International Registry shows successful outcomes

A significant update to the PROGRESS-CTO International Registry reveals successful outcomes of Chronic Total Occlusion Percutaneous Intervention (CTO PCI) for over 3,000 patients. The study found high success rates with acceptable complications, supporting its use in experienced centers.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateApr 27, 2018

Why cereal is better

Researchers discovered that two amino acids in the guard cells' protein SLAC1 enable grasses to quickly close their stomata and prevent water loss. This mechanism allows grasses to adapt better to drought, making them more suitable for water-scarce regions.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 27, 2018

A shape to remember

Kyoto University scientists have developed a shape-memory effect in porous materials, which can change and retain their shapes. The new material, with a porosity of 46%, has been shown to adsorb carbon dioxide and retain its shape after multiple cycles.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 27, 2018

Black-oriented films can be highly profitable when marketed to all audiences, study finds

A study published in the Journal of Advertising Research found that both Black and White teens perceive Black-oriented media as being targeted towards them, suggesting the potential for increased profitability when marketed to a broader audience. The study surveyed 1,900 adolescents ages 14-17 about their movie preferences.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of Advertising Research·DateApr 27, 2018

First results announced for the AVIATOR 2 international multicenter registry

The AVIATOR 2 international registry found significant discrepancies between physician-perceived risks and calculated scores for stroke, ischemic risk, and bleeding in patients with AF undergoing PCI. The study used a novel smartphone-based survey to capture physician and patient perspectives on antithrombotic therapies after PCI.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateApr 27, 2018

Helmholtz researchers get to grips with a herpesvirus

Scientists at Helmholtz Zentrum München have identified 16 virus structures that can be attacked by killer T cells, which could lead to new therapies for immunocompromised individuals and patients with autoimmune diseases. The researchers discovered these targets using an algorithm and verified them in a large group of patients.

Research gives new ray of hope for solar fuel

A team of renewable energy experts at the University of Exeter has developed a new method to produce hydrogen from sunlight using a revolutionary photo-electrode. This breakthrough could create a virtually limitless energy source with zero carbon emissions and double the energy density of fossil fuels.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 27, 2018