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Science News Archive August 2015 - Page 25


Page 25 of 32

Math boosts brain research

Researchers at the University of Basel used computational models to describe human memory processes for the first time. The study identified specific genetic profiles underlying distinct mental processes, such as learning and memory storage.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2015

How a female X chromosome is inactivated

A team of ETH Zurich researchers has identified seven genes central to X chromosome inactivation in females, including Spen, which prevents gene expression at the X chromosome. The discovery sheds light on how the human body maintains a delicate balance between genes, preventing disease.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 10, 2015

Bioengineers identify the key genes and functions for sustaining microbial life

Researchers define the core set of genes and functions that a bacterial cell needs to sustain life, providing a foundation for new cell engineering approaches. The study identifies 356 essential genes across various microorganisms, enabling the rapid construction of genome-scale cellular growth models.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2015

Life is but a DREAM

A crowdsourcing challenge in systems biomedicine has combined predictions from hundreds of scientists to estimate population-level response to toxic compounds. The study provides new methodologies for hazard evaluation and assessment, offering a way to accelerate toxicity testing.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateAug 10, 2015

Stepchildren who view former stepparents as family maintain relationships after divorce

A study found that stepchildren who viewed their former stepparents as family maintained relationships after the dissolution of the stepfamily unit. The researchers noted that emotional reactions to the divorce, patterns of support and resource exchanges, and parental encouragement played a significant role in these relationships.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Marriage and Family·DateAug 10, 2015

Fires near Lake Baikul, Russia

Forest fires in Siberia have grown over three times to 146 fires covering 63,600 hectares, with blazes reported in the Buryatia Republic and Zabaikalye Territory. A total of 10,700 hectares are registered in nature reserves, with firefighting efforts employing 3,500 people and 11 aircraft.

Volcanic vents preview future ocean habitats

Researchers used natural CO2 underwater seeps to study ecosystems in high-CO2 levels and adjacent ecosystems with present-day levels of CO2. The study found that acidification affects fish behavior, but some species thrive in acidified waters, while others decline or shift habitats.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 10, 2015

Big data maps world's ocean floor

The University of Sydney has created a digital map of the seafloor's geology, covering 70% of the Earth's surface, after 40 years without update. The map provides key findings on diatom accumulations and their relationship with ocean carbon cycle.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalGeology·DateAug 9, 2015

Big dinosaur discoveries in tiny toothy packages

Researchers have identified six additional species of carnivorous theropods from isolated teeth in the South Pyrenees Basin in Spain. The study quadrupled the known diversity of dinosaur fossils in the area, providing new insights into the evolution and extinction of these creatures.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalActa Palaeontologica Polonica·DateAug 7, 2015

Charge density and optical properties of multicomponent crystals

Researchers design multicomponent materials by combining molecular and structural properties to form a 3D architecture. The spatial distribution of molecules and electronic properties of building blocks significantly impact optical properties. The study demonstrates the feasibility of using active pharmaceutical ingredients as building...

SourceInternational Union of Crystallography·JournalActa Crystallographica Section B·DateAug 7, 2015