Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for January 31, 2017


IUPUI study: Climate change drove population decline in New World before Europeans arrived

Researchers from IUPUI reconstructed 2,100 years of temperature and precipitation data, pointing to climate change as a primary cause of the disappearance of the Mississippians. The study found that drought conditions due to changed atmospheric circulation undermined agricultural production, leading to the destabilization of sociopolit...

Females no longer neglected in obesity research

A recent review in Frontiers in Nutrition highlights the need for a more inclusive approach to obesity research, as traditional male rat models are found to be insufficient in predicting long-term obesity in females. The study also sheds light on the phenomenon of weight regain after weight loss and its impact on females.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·DateJan 31, 2017

Scientists step closer to developing new drug in fight against antimicrobial resistance

Researchers at the University of Lincoln have determined the molecular structure of a new antibiotic, teixobactin, which holds promise in tackling drug-resistant bacteria. The discovery reveals that the antibiotic's disordered structure is essential for its biological activity, providing insight into how to produce effective derivatives.

SourceUniversity of Lincoln·JournalChemical Communications·DateJan 31, 2017

IU study examines sexual risk-taking, HIV prevention among older adults in Africa

A recent Indiana University study found that older adults in Africa are sexually active and report high-risk behaviors, highlighting the need for targeted HIV prevention measures. The study reveals that older adults are a significant proportion of people living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa, where most HIV cases occur.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes & Human Retrovirology·DateJan 31, 2017

Scientists aim to reduce animals killed in drug testing

Researchers at Hiroshima University have developed a technique to assess anti-inflammatory properties of fortified health foods and medications using bioluminescence imaging. This method reduces the number of lab mice sacrificed and could revolutionize medicinal drug testing, particularly for obesity-related metabolic disorders.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 31, 2017

The world's first heat-driven transistor

Researchers at Linköping University developed the world's first heat-driven transistor, opening up new possibilities for temperature detection and medical applications. The transistor converts a 100 times greater temperature gradient to electric voltage than traditional thermoelectric materials.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 31, 2017

The making of Antarctica

Researchers at McGill University suggest that a link between global climate change and dramatic changes in ocean circulation can explain the formation of Antarctica's ice sheets. This new theory highlights the complexity of climate change and the impact of ocean circulation patterns on global temperatures.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJan 31, 2017

Yeast mutants unlock the secrets of aging

Researchers have identified genetic mechanisms that limit yeast lifespan, which can be manipulated by natural molecules to delay aging and improve health. The study confirms programmed aging theories and provides evidence for the existence of active mechanisms limiting longevity.

SourceConcordia University·JournalFrontiers in Genetics·DateJan 31, 2017

Making the switch to polarization diversity

Researchers develop integrated optical switch using polarization diversity, reducing size and cost of traditional switches. The new device features a single 8x8 grid with unique port assignments, allowing simultaneous management of both polarizations of light.

SourceOptica·DateJan 31, 2017

The role of the tunnel

A team of scientists has identified a crucial step in the protein-sorting process, revealing that the signal recognition particle (SRP) recognizes membrane proteins before they are fully synthesized. This discovery highlights the importance of ribosomal tunnels in coordinating protein transport and sorting.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJan 31, 2017

Re-assessing 'at risk' cutoffs for birth weight

Researchers found that using the 25th and 85th centile ranges instead of the traditional 10th and 90th percentiles could prevent one fatal event by offering delivery to women outside these ranges. This expansion may require an additional 1143 deliveries to be made.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJan 31, 2017