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Science News for May 3, 2024


When injecting pure spin into chiral materials, direction matters

Researchers from North Carolina State University and the University of Pittsburgh studied how pure spin currents move through chiral materials. They found that the direction of spin injection affects its absorption in chiral materials, which could enable the design of energy-efficient spintronic devices for data storage, communication,...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 3, 2024

Affordable Care Act expansions improved access to cancer care, study suggests

A study published by University of Pittsburgh researchers found that ACA insurance expansions led to an increase in patients receiving care at accredited cancer hospitals in Pennsylvania. The study suggests that these expansions make a difference in improving access to high-quality cancer care, particularly for those living in areas wi...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalHealth Services Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 3, 2024

Hungry, hungry white dwarfs: solving the puzzle of stellar metal pollution

Researchers found that white dwarfs continuously consume smaller objects in their path, explaining the presence of heavy metals on their surface. The 'natal kick' during formation alters the dynamics of surrounding material, causing comets and asteroids to become elongated orbits and move as one coherent unit.

SourceJILA·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 3, 2024

Economies take off with new airports

A global study finds that new airport construction benefits less-developed cities with increased accessibility to the global aviation network, promoting inclusive growth and connectivity. The research used nighttime light intensity as a proxy for economic development, analyzing over 13,000 cities worldwide.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalTransportation Research Part A Policy and Practice·DateMay 3, 2024

Newly discovered mechanism of T-cell control can interfere with cancer immunotherapies

Researchers at DKFZ and UMM found that NK cells can impair the effect of cancer therapies using immune checkpoint inhibitors by controlling activated T cells. They identified B7H6 as a recognition molecule for NK cell attacks, which could limit excessive activation and expansion of T cells.

Quantifying U.S. health impacts from gas stoves

A new study estimates that gas stove use in U.S. households may be responsible for up to 200,000 childhood asthma cases annually, with high levels of nitrogen dioxide exposure also causing thousands of deaths. The research found that even electric stoves produce no NO2, and that ventilation is key to reducing pollutant exposures.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 3, 2024

Mental health first-aid training may enhance mental health support in prison settings

Researchers found that Mental Health First Aid training improved correctional officers' ability to distinguish between mental health challenges and other issues. The training also positively impacted their attitudes toward referring incarcerated individuals to mental health professionals. However, there is a need to enhance the mental ...

SourceRutgers University·JournalPsychological Services·TypeSurvey·DateMay 3, 2024

The American Ornithological Society (AOS) names Judit Szabo as new Ornithological Applications editor-in-chief

Judit Szabo has been appointed as the new editor-in-chief of Ornithological Applications, with expertise in conservation biology and ornithology. She will work closely with current editor-in-chief Catherine Lindell until June 2024 and take over full responsibility on July 1, 2024.

SourceAmerican Ornithological Society Publications Office·JournalOrnithological Applications·DateMay 3, 2024

One vaccine, many cancers

Researchers developed an in-situ cancer vaccine that targets mutated proteins on cancer cells and triggers immunity. The vaccine was combined with chemotherapy, increasing survival rates in AML patients.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalBlood Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 3, 2024

Genomes of “star algae” shed light on origin of plants

Researchers have generated complete genome data for four filamentous 'star algae' species, revealing overabundances of signalling genes and environmental response factors that underpin molecular mechanisms shaping plant bodies. The findings provide insights into the origins of land plants and their ability to adapt to environments.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 3, 2024

SMART trial reaffirms hemodynamic superiority of TAVR self-expanding valve in aortic stenosis patients with a small annulus over time and regardless of age

The SMART trial demonstrates clinical non-inferiority and valve performance superiority of self-expanding valves (SEV) versus balloon-expandable valves (BEV) in aortic stenosis patients. The study shows improved hemodynamic outcomes over time, particularly for women with small annuli.

PAS 2024: Nemours Children’s Health researchers to present on youth mental health, vaccination, autism and respiratory illness

Researchers will discuss key findings on pediatric mental health, vaccination, autism diagnosis, social determinants of cardiovascular health, and treatment of bronchiolitis. Studies examine the relationship between socioeconomic factors and hypertension in youth, long wait times for autism evaluations, and the impact of HPV vaccine up...

SourceNemours·DateMay 3, 2024

Climate change amplifies severity of combined wind-rain extremes over the UK and Ireland

New research shows climate change will cause more severe combined wind-rain extremes in the UK and Ireland, leading to increased flooding and damage. The study found that stronger winds and heavier rainfall are likely to occur together, posing challenges for coastal areas and emergency response resources.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalWeather and Climate Extremes·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 3, 2024

Largest quantitative synthesis to date reveals what predicts human behavior and how to change it

A review of meta-analyses found that interventions targeting individual determinants like habits, behavioral attitudes, and skills are more effective than those targeting knowledge, general attitudes, and beliefs. Social-structural determinants like social support and institutional policies also show promise in changing behavior.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Reviews Psychology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 3, 2024

Catheter-directed mechanical thrombectomy system demonstrates safety and effectiveness in patients with pulmonary embolism

A new catheter-directed mechanical thrombectomy system demonstrated significant improvement in right ventricle function and minimal major adverse events in patients with acute intermediate-risk pulmonary embolism. The AlphaVac System achieved excellent thrombus removal with a wonderful safety profile.

ChatGPT can be helpful for Black women’s self-education about HIV, PrEP

A new study suggests that ChatGPT can be a valuable tool for Black women's self-education about HIV prevention. The AI chatbot provided culturally sensitive information and empathetic responses when addressing questions specific to Black women, highlighting its potential to bridge healthcare gaps in marginalized communities.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care·DateMay 3, 2024