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Science News Archive May 2024 - Page 40


Page 40 of 44

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

Study helps understand how energy metabolism is regulated at cellular level

Researchers discovered a connection between mitochondrial calcium transport and autophagy, a process where cells break down and reuse components. The study found that NCLX protein plays a crucial role in regulating this link, which has implications for understanding energy metabolism and developing disease treatments.

Weight-loss surgery before kidney transplantation improves health and eligibility of patients with obesity and renal failure, Mayo Clinic study finds

A Mayo Clinic study found that laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy can improve the health and eligibility of patients with advanced chronic kidney disease and obesity. The procedure reduced cardiovascular risks, including diabetes and hypertension, and improved access to kidney transplantation.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateMay 2, 2024

UTA scientists test for quantum nature of gravity

Researchers at UTA used ultra-high energy neutrino particles to search for signatures of quantum gravity, but found no evidence of expected quantum gravitational effects. This non-observation represents a powerful statement about the still-unknown physics operating at the interface of quantum physics and general relativity.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalNature Physics·TypeObservational study·DateMay 2, 2024

Model predicts future spread of box tree moth in North America

A new model predicts that most of North America will be suitable for the establishment of the box tree moth, a invasive species from Asia. The Ecoclimatic CLIMEX model shows the box tree moth's distribution in Asia is likely incomplete, suggesting further expansion possible in its introduced range.

SourceCABI·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 2, 2024

Increasing doses of varenicline or nicotine replacement helps persistent smokers quit

A new study from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center found that increasing treatment plan doses or altering regimens significantly improves cessation success for persistent smokers who previously tried to quit and failed. Varenicline was more effective than combined nicotine replacement therapy in aiding smokers to quit.

Positive response to Botox injection predicts better results of migraine surgery

A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that preoperative Botox injections can reliably predict the success of nerve decompression surgery for chronic migraine. Patients who responded positively to Botox injections showed significant improvements in migraine symptoms, with a positive predictive value of nearly 90%.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateMay 2, 2024

New multi-year, multi-million dollar grant supports ongoing partnership between Penn Nursing and City of Philadelphia

The project builds on a sustained strategic partnership between Penn Nursing, the City of Philadelphia, and Philly CEAL to improve chronic disease self-management. Community Health Workers will receive training in the DECIDE intervention, which enhances their skills in group-based chronic disease self-management.

Circadian clocks in the brain and muscles coordinate to support daily muscle function

A new study reveals that coordinated brain-muscle communication is crucial for maintaining healthy daily physiology and preventing age-related muscle dysfunction. By restoring clock function in both brain and skeletal muscle tissue, researchers found that this brain-muscle interaction plays a key role in supporting daily muscle function.

*FREE* Friendship-nomination approach identifies key villagers to diffuse health messages

Researchers developed a new approach to identify influential individuals in social networks, enabling targeted information spreading. This method leverages the 'friendship paradox' and was shown to be more effective than random targeting, with potential far-reaching policy implications for public health interventions.

Dietary changes may treat pulmonary hypertension

Scientists at University of Pittsburgh show that limiting glutamine and serine intake can halt disease progression in rodent models. The findings suggest a potential new therapy for patients with pulmonary hypertension, offering hope for improved treatment options beyond medications.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 2, 2024