Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Arizona State University


Uniting lost voices

Bioarchaeology International is a new journal that aims to unify perspectives in the field of bioarchaeology by providing a space for peer-reviewed articles and encouraging global discussion. The journal will release its inaugural issue on June 30, 2017, and will focus on integrating material and biological evidence left behind in graves.

SourceArizona State University·JournalBioarchaeology International·DateJun 30, 2017

Solving a sweet problem for renewable biofuels and chemicals

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a new approach to convert biomass into renewable biofuels and chemicals, using the trial-and-error power of evolution. By harnessing this power, they were able to coax bacteria to better ferment sugars derived from biomass, leading to a 50% increase in product yield.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 29, 2017

A new virtual approach to science in space

Researchers suggest using telepresence technology to reduce communication delays in space research, enabling scientists to conduct scientific investigations more quickly. This approach could expand the number of destinations where humans can do great science, including those currently inaccessible due to safety concerns.

SourceArizona State University·JournalScience Robotics·DateJun 21, 2017

To work or not to work: Moms' well being rests on what she wants

Among well-educated mothers, those who pursued their desired lifestyle experienced overall positive adjustment, while those who were 'misaligned' faced considerable distress and unhappiness. Feeling emotionally supported, unconditional acceptance, and satisfying friendships are key to promoting life satisfaction and mitigating loneliness.

SourceArizona State University·JournalJournal of Family and Economic Issues·DateJun 20, 2017

Resurrecting identities in the Andes

Researchers developed a new model to analyze ancient lives using biological and cultural data from grave sites. They examined cranial characteristics, head shapes, isotopic analyses, and grave goods to understand individual identities and community shifts in northern Chilean society during the Middle Horizon and Late Intermediate Period.

SourceArizona State University·JournalCurrent Anthropology·DateMay 17, 2017

Grassy beginning for earliest Homo

Researchers discovered the oldest known evidence of Homo at Ledi-Geraru, dated to 2.8 million years ago, with early Homo associated with open and arid grassy environments. The diet of early Homo appears similar to that of Australopithecus, challenging previous assumptions about the origins of Homo.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMay 15, 2017

A new test to rapidly identify worldwide TB infections

A new rapid blood test to diagnose and quantify the severity of active TB cases has been developed by a team of researchers from Arizona State University. The NanoDisk-MS assay can detect minute blood levels of two proteins that are released only during active infections, providing faster results than current tests.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 27, 2017

Switched-on DNA

An ASU-led team has developed the first controllable DNA switch, allowing for reversible control of electricity flow within a single molecule. The modified DNA helix can conduct electricity and is reversibly controlled using an anthraquinone group.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 20, 2017

Ancient DNA can both diminish and defend modern minds

A recent study published in The FASEB Journal found that the Apolipoprotein E4 (ApoE4) allele, associated with increased risk of Alzheimer's disease and cognitive decline in industrialized societies, may actually improve cognitive function in individuals exposed to high levels of parasites in a traditional foraging environment. This su...

SourceArizona State University·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateDec 30, 2016

Novel technique helps ID elusive molecules

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a novel technique to identify carbohydrates, which play a vital role in life processes. The new method, called 'sequencing by recognition,' uses electricity to release current spikes that can be measured and analyzed to identify specific carbohydrate molecules with high accuracy.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 21, 2016

People matter

A new study by Arizona State University reveals that changes in cooperation among communities and households are more impactful on system connectivity than the loss of key animal species. The researchers used a multiplex network analysis approach to understand how social relationships influence resource sharing and exchange.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 30, 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

The case of the missing craters

The Dawn spacecraft's findings suggest that Ceres' large impact basins were erased due to its peculiar composition and internal evolution. The team proposes that a significant population of large craters was obliterated beyond recognition, likely resulting from the planet's icy crust and geological activity.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 26, 2016