University of Bern in the news en-us provides the latest news from University of Bern A possible alternative to antibiotics Scientists from the University of Bern have developed a novel substance for the treatment of severe bacterial infections without antibiotics, which would prevent the development of antibiotic resistance. Biology Tue, 04 Nov 2014 06:20:02 EST news334302601 Immune cells regulate blood stem cells Researchers in Bern, Germany, have discovered that, during a viral infection, immune cells control the blood stem cells in the bone marrow and therefore also the body's own defences. The findings could allow for new forms of therapy, such as for bone marrow diseases like leukaemia. Biology Fri, 21 Feb 2014 08:00:04 EST news312191398 Missing monsoon lead to 'years without a summer' Why do cold, rainy summers in Europe follow intense volcanic eruptions in the tropics? A research team based at the University of Bern may have found the answer: volcanic emissions in the atmosphere block sunlight and can thereby affect the amount of precipitation in other parts of the world. Earth Fri, 14 Feb 2014 08:25:48 EST news311588430 Male honey bees more susceptible than females to widespread intestinal parasite Gender differences in nature are common, including in humans. A research team from Bern, Switzerland has found that male European honey bees, or drones, are much more susceptible than female European honey bees, known as workers, to a fungal intestinal parasite called Nosema ceranae. Originally from Asia, Nosema ceranae has rapidly spread throughout the world in recent years, and may contribute to the high number of colony deaths now observed in many regions of the northern hemisphere. These findings demonstrate the delicate nature of male honey bees, which are important to honey bee colony reproduction, to a well-distributed parasite. Biology Mon, 20 Jan 2014 09:00:01 EST news309427953 Variation in land-use intensity leads to higher biodiversity If grassland is managed intensively, biodiversity typically declines. A new study led by Bernese plant ecologists shows that it is rare species that suffer the most. These negative effects could be reduced, if farmers varied the intensity of their land use between years. Biology Tue, 24 Dec 2013 09:10:01 EST news307090300 New theoretical models aid the search for Earth-like planets Researchers from Bern have developed a method to simplify the search for Earth-like planets: By using new theoretical models they rule out the possibility of Earth-like conditions, and therefore life, on certain planets outside our solar system – and limit their search by doing so. Astronomy & Space Thu, 14 Nov 2013 19:00:01 EST news303677191 Understanding clouds as a necessary ingredient in the search for life: The case study of the exoplanet Kepler-7b An international team, with participation from the University of Bern, has produced the first map of clouds on an exoplanet using the Kepler Space Telescope. Studying the atmospheres of exoplanets is the path towards ultimately identifying life elsewhere in the Universe. Understanding the role of clouds in exoplanet atmospheres is a necessary ingredient in the cosmic hunt for life. Astronomy & Space Thu, 26 Sep 2013 06:30:14 EST news299395801 How successful plants take the lead Why are some plant species rare, and others common? Why do certain exotic plant species become invasive – while others do not? Scientists from the University of Bern now identified the most important environmental and species characteristics for plants to colonize and establish in novel places. Biology Tue, 16 Jul 2013 04:24:01 EST news293167430 How quality control works in our cells A cellular control mechanism prevents the production of defective proteins in our cells. A team of researchers from Bern has now obtained valuable insights into this vital mechanism that could lead to new therapeutic approaches for genetic diseases. Biology Mon, 08 Jul 2013 07:13:43 EST news292486408 Limiting global warming is not enough So far, international climate targets have been restricted to limiting the increase in temperature. But if we are to stop the rising sea levels, ocean acidification and the loss of production from agriculture, CO2 emissions will have to fall even more sharply. This is demonstrated by a study published in Nature that has been carried out at the University of Bern. Earth Thu, 04 Jul 2013 06:06:12 EST news292136757