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Science News Archive September 2015


Page 1 of 35

Pan-European Species-directories Infrastructure: Basis for handling big taxonomic data

The Pan-European Species-directories Infrastructure (PESI) project provides a harmonized taxonomic reference system and high-quality data sets to efficiently handle big taxonomic data. It integrates five pillars, including knowledge, consensus, standards, data, and dissemination, to standardize taxonomic information across platforms.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalBiodiversity Data Journal·DateSep 30, 2015

Surface of the oceans affects climate more than thought

A recent study by Leibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research and Institute of Catalysis and Environment in Lyon reveals that oceans produce significantly more isoprene, a gas formed by both vegetation and oceans. This finding suggests that the climate models need to be improved to accurately predict temperature and precipitation changes.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research (TROPOS)·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateSep 30, 2015

High-volume facilities better for nursing hip fractures

A recent study suggests that experienced skilled nursing facilities are more likely to successfully discharge patients back to the community within 30 days of breaking a hip. Facilities with over 24 cases in the prior year had a discharge rate of 43.7%, compared to 18.8% for those with fewer cases.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateSep 30, 2015

Relationship quality affects siblings' mental health, risky behaviors

The study found that Mexican-origin adolescents with positive sibling relationships had fewer depressive symptoms and engaged in less risky behavior. Siblings with negative relationships, on the other hand, were more likely to engage in risky behaviors, including those with sexual risks. The research highlights the importance of family...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Development·DateSep 30, 2015

Scientists refine model to predict dangerous errors in cell division

Researchers at Virginia Tech have refined a mathematical model that simulates genetic mutations and their impact on cell division. The model's accuracy has been improved through laboratory experiments and is expected to be useful in understanding how certain mutations thrive and reproduce, particularly in the context of cancer.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalMolecular Biology of the Cell·DateSep 30, 2015

Switching on paternal behavior

A study in mice reveals that specific brain areas control paternal versus infanticidal behavior. The activation patterns of these areas determine whether a male mouse will show caring or aggressive behavior towards newborn pups. This discovery could have implications for understanding societal problems such as child-directed aggression...

SourceEMBO·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateSep 30, 2015

Swap the couch for a walk to avoid an early death

A University of Sydney study found that swapping one hour of sitting with physical activity decreases the chance of an early death by 12 to 14 per cent. Replacing one hour of sitting with standing is linked to a five per cent reduction in risk of premature death.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateSep 30, 2015

Children with severe obesity may be at higher risk for heart disease and diabetes

A new study found a direct correlation between severe childhood obesity and increased risk factors for heart disease and diabetes in boys. The study's lead investigator noted that understanding elevated risk in children with more severe obesity can help target testing and interventions to prevent future disease.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 30, 2015

Bold research into recycling CO2

Researchers at Aarhus University are working with international partners to find ways to convert CO2 into valuable materials. The goal is to make CO2 a sustainable resource, potentially even using it as a raw material for future manned missions to Mars.

Mobile apps and online reviews influence consumer behavior

A new Iowa State University study finds that mobile app engagement directly impacts consumer purchasing behavior, leading to increased spending among customers who use interactive features. Companies must create value-driven apps to capitalize on the growing market, with ongoing monitoring and maintenance crucial for success.

SourceIowa State University·JournalJournal of Interactive Marketing·DateSep 30, 2015

Real-time analysis of metabolic products

Scientists at ETH Zurich have developed a method to analyze hundreds of metabolites simultaneously in real-time, allowing for rapid analysis of cellular responses to external stimuli. This breakthrough enables the study of complex biological processes and has potential applications in developing new pharmaceutical agents.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Methods·DateSep 30, 2015

Engines of change: WPI team recovers rare earths from electric and hybrid vehicle motors

Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute have developed a method for chemically separating rare earth elements, such as neodymium, dysprosium, and praseodymium, from the drive units of discarded electric and hybrid vehicles. This technology has the potential to reduce the United States' dependence on China for these vital materials.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalGreen Chemistry·DateSep 30, 2015

The flaws of HIV

Researchers from UNIGE and Trento University have deciphered the mechanism by which HIV infectivity is destroyed, revealing a new antiretroviral protein called SERINC5. SERINC5 enhances cell defense against HIV, rendering Nef's ability to neutralize it ineffective.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature·DateSep 30, 2015