Centromeres play virtually the same central role across the entire tree of life: They ensure the faithful segregation of chromosomes during cell division. Yet the striking diversity in centromere architecture – from large, repeat-rich DNA arrays to the minimalistic “point” centromeres in yeast – combined with their rapid evolution has puzzled scientists for decades. A research team led by Andrea Musacchio, Director at the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology in Dortmund, and Jef Boeke from the NYU Grossmann School of Medicine have now solved the enduring mystery about the yeast centromere’s origin and evolution. They have identified a “proto-point” centromere that bridges the gap between the actual tiny “point” centromere and its more elaborate ancestor that incorporated fragments of parasitic DNA. This discovery reveals one of the most dramatic evolutionary transitions at DNA level

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a minimally invasive procedure that is used to treat narrowing of the aortic valve (aortic stenosis).

The feasibility and safety of same-day hospital discharge was studied in selected patients after day-case TAVI based on defined eligibility criteria.

Around 1 in 5 patients were successfully discharged on the same day as their day-case TAVI procedure, without increased risk of adverse outcomes.

Given the benefits for patients and for the healthcare system, same-day discharge after day-case TAVI may be implemented more widely in clinical practice.