A new cybersecurity protocol called 'delayed password disclosure' aims to prevent identity authentication attacks on online banks and ad hoc wireless networks. By using this protocol, users can verify their identities without divulging sensitive information, making it difficult for attackers to steal funds or sensitive data.
Researchers are exploring muon radiography to detect hidden burial chambers in the Pyramid of the Sun, track volcanic eruption potential, and identify illicit nuclear materials. The method involves tracking muons passing through objects, allowing for non-invasive detection with minimal radiation exposure.
A new study challenges the traditional understanding of sex assignment, suggesting that genetics and brain development may influence gender identity. Researchers highlight the need for more nuanced laws and policies to protect individuals with ambiguous genitalia.
Researchers studied mountain gorillas' diets to understand early human food adaptations, finding increased meat consumption led to genetic changes allowing for fatty foods without heart disease. The study suggests that humans have evolved to eat a 'mushy' diet and are not equipped to cope with substantial foods.
Research suggests that people with a history of depression are at a higher risk of developing epilepsy, while those with epilepsy may be more likely to experience depression. Studies have found common biological mechanisms underlying both conditions, including abnormal neurotransmitter secretion patterns.
Research suggests that adding meat, milk, or energy-rich vegetable oils to cereal-based diets can improve iron, zinc, and vitamin B-12 intake in poor children. Biofortification of crops is also a possibility, but more research is needed to determine its impact.
A recent meta-analysis of 200 surveys found little cross-cultural variation in public perception of science, highlighting the need for coherent theories to explain public attitudes. The study also explored differences in how diverse cultures regard science, with Americans showing a lack of understanding and acceptance of new technologies.
The Merck/AAAS Undergraduate Science Research Program supports research stipends and fosters interactions between biology and chemistry departments at participating institutions. The program aims to enhance undergraduate education through research experiences emphasizing the interrelationship between chemistry and biology.
Researchers are developing saliva testing technology to detect diseases like cancer, predict cavities, and identify drug use. Preliminary results show that analyzing protein sugars in saliva can determine an individual's vulnerability to cavities.
A new mapping effort captures most common human genetic variation across European American, African American, and Han Chinese American ancestry. The research provides a tool for exploring the causal role of common DNA variation in complex human traits.
Dr. Michael J. Balick was honored by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) for his tireless efforts to promote scientific collaboration in ethnobotany. He received the award for preserving traditional knowledge and supporting local scientists, as well as his research on plant domestication and conservation.
Eric Lander, a prominent genomics researcher, has been recognized by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) for his ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to the public. He is credited with helping to educate the public about the Human Genome Project and its implications for society.
Rhonda Hughes, a mathematics professor at Bryn Mawr College in Pennsylvania, has mentored 57 women and minority students to earn graduate degrees in mathematics. Jagannathan Sankar, Professor of Mechanical and Chemical Engineering at North Carolina A&T State University, facilitated the mentorship of 46 Ph.D. students, including 22 unde...
A team of researchers from Howard Hughes Medical Institute and the University of Washington designed a novel protein with atomic-level accuracy using computer-aided design. The breakthrough allows for the exploration of previously unseen regions of the protein universe, opening up new possibilities for studying protein-folding energetics.
Dr. Maxine Singer has made significant contributions to advancing science, scientific achievements, and services to the scientific community. She was recognized with the 2004 AAAS Philip Hauge Abelson Prize for her tireless advocacy for biomedical research and public trust in the scientific enterprise.
The Recombinant DNA Advisory Committee has played a central role in developing responsible research practices and establishing criteria for the safe use of recombinant DNA technology. The committee's work has enhanced opportunities within modern genetics and influenced the conduct of science globally.
Saba Valadkhan, an Iranian-born scientist, has solved the 20-year mystery of splicing catalysis by proving that purified U2 and U6 snRNAs have catalytic activity. Her discovery has implications for understanding cell growth control, differentiation, and disease.
The AAAS has selected five science reporters from Africa to receive fellowships and training at the 2005 Annual Meeting. The program aims to encourage outstanding young science journalists and support their coverage of science and health topics in developing countries.
The discovery of salty, acidic water on Mars' surface suggests the planet was once capable of cradling life. Robotic explorers like Opportunity and Spirit found evidence of shallow groundwater and wet-and-dry cycles.
A new antibiotic shows promise in treating tuberculosis by shortening treatment time and fighting drug-resistant strains. The drug, called R207910, operates differently than other antibiotics and appears to inhibit the bacteria's energy supply.
A Science magazine survey has identified top biopharma employers across two industries, with scientists in biotech and pharmaceuticals ranking highest for work-culture values alignment. The ranking takes into account 42 characteristics and attributes in seven categories, rating companies based on employee treatment, respect, and more.
A new fossil discovery in Spain reveals a 13-million-year-old ape species, Pierolapithecus catalaunicus, that shares key features with modern great apes. The species' unique adaptations for climbing and its relatively complete skeleton suggest it may have been the last common ancestor of all great apes.
The six winners of the 2004 AAAS Science Journalism Awards are recognized for their exceptional storytelling and dedication to science reporting. Amy Ellis Nutt's series on killer germs defeating antibiotics and Melinda Burns's story on Polynesians sharing sea-faring skills with the Chumash people were among the notable entries.
A 30-year study suggests that declines in fish supply in Ghana lead to increased hunting, trade, and human consumption of wildlife. The researchers propose establishing alternative protein supplies and increasing protection of wildlife reserves to conserve biodiversity.
The winner's research explains how the nematode worm detects touch, a process that could inform studies on human reduced touch sensation. This knowledge may help develop new treatments for diabetes-related complications.
A new experimental drug called PSC-RANTES has shown promising results in preventing vaginal simian HIV transmission in monkeys. The study found that the highest dose of PSC-RANTES protected all five recipients from SHIV infection, suggesting a potential key target for strategies to prevent vaginal HIV transmission.
The AAAS has announced the winners of the 2004 Science and Engineering Visualization Challenge, showcasing outstanding visualizations across five categories: photography, illustration, graphics, interactive media, and non-interactive media. Marna E. Ericson took first place in photography for her image capturing tick nymphs' autofluore...
Scientists have discovered a new species of sea reptile, Dinocephalosaurus orientalis, from the Guanling Formation in southeast China. The creature had a long-necked body, measuring over five feet, with relatively stiff neck and short limbs, suggesting it was adapted for life in the water.
The AAAS expert panel emphasizes the need for new scientific research to improve voting performance, focusing on technologies, voters' knowledge and behavior, election administration, and accountability mechanisms. This research will help ensure maximum voter participation, trust, and integrity while guaranteeing privacy.
Researchers studying Nicaraguan Sign Language found that children give language its most fundamental features by learning it, contradicting theories of hard-wired blueprints. Children turn simple gestures into a true language through their own experimentation and improvement.
The survey found that salaries have grown by 4% since 2001, with median academic salaries at $76,000 and outside academia at $88,000. Life scientists in universities and self-employment report high job satisfaction rates, while those in pharmaceutical industry receive lower marks.
A German Border collie named Rico demonstrated a vocabulary size comparable to that of language-trained apes, dolphins, sea lions, and parrots. The dog learned the names of unfamiliar toys after just one exposure, using fast mapping abilities similar to those seen in human language acquisition.
The discovery of modern hummingbirds in Europe pushes the fossil record back approximately 29 million years and zips halfway around the world. The tiny skeletons found in southern Germany exhibit characteristics such as tiny size, long beaks, and wing design similar to today's hummingbirds.
The US President's FY 2005 budget proposes significant cuts to non-defense Research and Development (R&D) programs, with some agencies facing declines of up to 28%. The largest decreases will occur in the Department of Agriculture, Department of Commerce, and National Institutes of Health.
Researchers have discovered the remains of a 9,500-year-old human-cat burial on Cyprus, providing the oldest known evidence of cat taming. The find, published in Science journal, suggests that humans may have begun taming wild cats earlier than previously thought, around 11,000 years ago.
New studies reveal a significant decline in UK species diversity, with insects, plants, and birds showing declines of up to 70% over 20 years. The findings support the 'Sixth Extinction' hypothesis and highlight the need for environmental policies to mitigate the effects of human activity.
Participants discussed three options for restoring ocean health: education and regulation, investing in technologies, and accepting environmental stress. A majority favored education and regulation, while some believed a combination of all three options was the best approach.
A study suggests that genetic enhancement can increase muscle mass and strength in rats, which could benefit elite athletes, patients with muscle wasting, and elderly individuals. The research also highlights the need for regulatory bodies to distinguish between allowed and banned endurance enhancement practices.
Scientists propose that alterations in cholesterol and ceramide contribute to neurodegenerative cascade destroying neurons in Alzheimer's disease. Oxidative stress triggered by beta amyloid peptide leads to ceramide accumulation, causing nerve cell death.
Researchers successfully cloned three mule foals, including Idaho Gem, using increased calcium concentrations in the media. This breakthrough may aid understanding of human diseases, as equine cell activation and division rates can be accelerated by exposure to calcium.
Researchers conclude that large pools of carbon on land may shrink in the coming century, affecting carbon removal. Planting trees remains an effective way to sequester carbon, but growth rates are unlikely to be supercharged.
The AAAS survey found that nearly 80% of Americans believe human stresses are threatening coastal regions and oceans. Despite this, a significant majority - nearly two-thirds - would eat less fish if it helped protect natural resources. The town hall meeting aims to bridge the gap between scientists, policymakers, and the public.
The AAAS symposium features educators and authors using popular culture to make physics accessible. Chemical physicist Catherine Asaro uses romance novels infused with quantum physics, while Professor James Kakalios illustrates physics principles through superhero comics.
Researchers use computer models to simulate the spread of diseases and develop strategies for containment. The models help predict how many people should be vaccinated or treated with antibiotics, providing critical information for public health officials.
The US government is expected to issue a draft report with recommendations for ocean policy, addressing issues like resource stewardship and pollution prevention. The commission's report emphasizes the need for ecosystem-based management to sustain long-term exploitation.
The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) honors forensic anthropologist Fredy Peccerelli for his work with the Guatemalan Forensic Anthropology Foundation, investigating mass human rights abuses and exhuming thousands of victims' remains. Despite facing death threats and impunity, Peccerelli's work has promoted hu...
The American Association for the Advancement of Science recommends physicians consider risk factors and prevention options when prescribing hormone replacement therapy. Women with a high risk of chronic diseases may benefit from alternative treatments, while those with menopause-related symptoms may still be suitable candidates for HRT.
Researchers have developed a portable cooling system that weighs just several pounds and can detect chemical and biological toxins using miniature sensors. These devices use microchannels to enhance heat transfer or chemical reactions, enabling better process control and overall miniaturization of systems.
Studies find that prenatal exposure to lead, alcohol, and anesthetic drugs can cause brain damage in young adults. Research suggests that these substances trigger apoptosis, a form of cell death, by interfering with neural connections.
Researchers have created a genetic map of purebred dogs, revealing how breeds evolved and inherited traits. The study also found that similar trade-offs in genetics are present in both dogs and modern foxes.