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Science News for December 12, 2006


'Lessons learned' highlighted as global politics of HIV/AIDS examined in new research

New research symposium in Perspectives on Politics examines the complex politics of HIV/AIDS in seven countries, highlighting key findings on state action, civil society mobilization, and their consequences. The symposium provides empirical and theoretical claims on the pandemic, shedding light on the diverse impact of HIV/AIDS on rela...

SourceAmerican Political Science Association·JournalPerspectives on Politics·DateDec 12, 2006

Mandarin language is music to the brain

A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that the brain processes pitch in Mandarin Chinese music before processing semantics in language. This finding highlights why people with cochlear implants struggle to understand tonal languages like Mandarin.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 12, 2006

Hairpins for switches

Researchers created hairpin-shaped RNA molecules that can differentiate between riboswitches in on and off states. These aptamers could help find new antibiotics by binding to the switches of pathogens, blocking essential protein synthesis.

SourceWiley·DateDec 12, 2006

Coral stress 'like never in history'

A new study reveals that coral reefs are experiencing abnormal die-off rates, unlike anything seen in the past 11,000 years. The frequency of reef disturbances was at least an order of magnitude less than today's levels, according to Associate Professor John Pandolfi.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalGeology·DateDec 12, 2006

Tiny bones rewrite textbooks

Scientists have discovered a unique, mouse-sized land animal in New Zealand, which challenges the theory that birds evolved without competition from land mammals. The discovery also sheds new light on climate change in the region, indicating a massive shift from warm and wet to cool and dry conditions.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 12, 2006