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Science News Archive August 2016 - Page 14


Page 14 of 38

Genetic regulation of the thymus function identified

A team of researchers has identified the genes controlled by Foxn1, a protein essential for thymus development and function. The study reveals that Foxn1 regulates vital functions in the postnatal thymus, providing insights into its role in autoimmune diseases, vaccination responses, and tumor defense.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Immunology·DateAug 22, 2016

Better understanding seismic hazards

A team of ASU researchers has found that major earthquakes can actually down-drop mountains while uplifting the surrounding foothills, challenging conventional wisdom on the mechanisms of mountain building. This new understanding may help anticipate seismic hazards in advance of devastating earthquakes.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateAug 22, 2016

Urban pumping raises arsenic risk in Southeast Asia

A new study from Columbia University and MIT found that large-scale groundwater pumping is contaminating aquifers in Southeast Asia with high levels of arsenic, posing a significant risk to human health. The researchers discovered clear patterns of contamination that can help farmers and communities locate lower-risk sites for wells.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalWater Resources Research·DateAug 22, 2016

Full adherence to guideline-recommend therapies associated with lower rate of MACE

The MINERVA study found a significant association between higher medication adherence rates and improved patient outcomes, including reduced major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and healthcare costs. Fully adherent patients had a lower risk of MACE compared to partially and non-adherent populations.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateAug 22, 2016

New understanding of pulmonary hypertension leads to promising drug targets

Researchers have discovered a new group of compounds that could treat pulmonary hypertension by altering vessel stiffness and its downstream control of metabolism. The findings, published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, highlight the use of these drugs to target the molecular origins of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 22, 2016

Strong external governance makes top managers more prone to cheat

A new study by Rice University researchers found that strong external governance mechanisms can actually increase the likelihood of financial fraud among top managers. Higher levels of dedicated institutional ownership and increased analyst pressure were linked to higher rates of fraud. The findings challenge traditional agency theory,...

SourceRice University·JournalStrategic Management Journal·DateAug 22, 2016

Gene therapy via ultrasound could offer new therapeutic tool

Researchers have developed a gene therapy approach using ultrasound energy and microbubbles to selectively open cells, allowing delivery of therapeutic agents. The study's findings will help refine this technique as a clinical tool and translate it into an effective gene or drug delivery tool for patients.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 22, 2016

How cell nuclei squeeze into tight spaces

Fascin protein plays a crucial role in deforming the cell nucleus to navigate through tight spaces. The study suggests that this ability may be exploited by cancer cells to invade tissues, making fascin a potential target for therapy.

SourceCell Press·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateAug 22, 2016

Religious actions convey pro-social intent, finds study

A study published in Evolution and Human Behavior found that regular churchgoers are perceived as more generous and hardworking compared to others. The researchers suggest that this is due to the potent signal sent by these individuals, demonstrating their generosity, devotion, and commitment to contributing to their communities.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalEvolution and Human Behavior·DateAug 22, 2016

Chimpanzees choose cooperation over competition

Researchers found that chimpanzees choose to cooperate five times more frequently than compete, using various strategies to overcome competition. The study suggests shared roots of human cooperation with other primates and provides insight into human evolution.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 22, 2016