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Science News for May 13, 2004


Bird's eye views earth's magnetic lines

Researchers found that birds' photoreceptors can detect the Earth's magnetic field by sensing changes in light energy. This process involves specialized visual systems that allow animals to navigate using the magnetic compass. The discovery sheds new light on the mechanisms behind animal magnetism and its potential applications.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature·DateMay 13, 2004

Sagging symbionts

A facultative symbiont is identified in pea aphids associated with host plant specialization, increasing fecundity on clover and failure to survive on alfalfa. Genetic data suggests the aphid genome, not symbiont, causes specialization.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalEcology Letters·DateMay 13, 2004

Research aims to improve nation's health

The Cardiff Institute of Society, Health and Ethics aims to produce high-quality evidence to address health inequalities and improve public health in Wales. The institute will focus on tackling issues such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and urinary disorders through community-based initiatives and research.

New centre a boost for sustainable business

The new centre aims to help firms adopt sustainable practices through research on advanced technologies, miniaturisation, and waste minimisation. It will also explore shared and collaborative logistics, warehousing, and transport systems to achieve sustainable economics for the manufacturing industry.

Nonalcoholic beverages may impart cardiovascular benefits without the negative effects of alcohol

Researchers have discovered that nonalcoholic beer can impart cardiovascular benefits without the negative effects of alcohol. The study found that nonalcoholic beer reduced platelet activation and blood coagulation just as well as alcoholic beverages, which may help prevent conditions such as coronary heart disease and atherosclerosis.

Screening for liver diseases

The value of screening varies by condition, and it can both identify treatable conditions and subject patients to invasive evaluations. Researchers recommend carefully considering each condition's worthiness and exploring prospective studies on screening efficacy.

SourceWiley·DateMay 13, 2004

Alternative states in the ocean

A recent study on a rocky intertidal shore in Washington State discovered an alternative state where mussels replace algal dominated assemblages. The starfish play a key role in controlling mussel distribution and abundance, leading to two possible outcomes: gradual recovery or persistent transformation.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalEcology Letters·DateMay 13, 2004

Science.gov 2.0 launched

Science.gov 2.0 enhances the interagency science portal, searching 47 million pages of government R&D results in relevancy-ranked order. The new metasearch technology brings together the 30 largest databases, making them searchable via a single query.

Survey shows engineers held in high esteem

A recent survey conducted by Harris Interactive found that Americans hold engineers in high regard, with 77% of respondents believing they contribute to strong economic growth and national security. The survey also revealed that engineers are widely respected for their ability to make a positive contribution to society.