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Princeton University


Dragonfly migration resembles that of birds, scientists say

A team of Princeton University researchers tracked 14 green darner dragonflies for up to 10 days and found their flight patterns showed similarities to bird migration patterns. The study suggests that the rules for animal migration may have been established in Earth's history, with implications for agriculture and ecological management.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalBiology Letters·DateMay 11, 2006

From Quonset huts to ballerinas

Researchers discovered that surfactant micelles assemble into specific structures on a graphite surface due to van der Waals interactions, overcoming Brownian motion. The dynamic nature of these micelle structures opens new horizons for exploration and potential technological applications.

Nanotech discovery could have radical implications

Researchers at Princeton University propose a new mathematical approach to produce desired configurations of nanoparticles by manipulating their interactions. This method could lead to radical implications in industries like telecommunications, computers, and aerospace engineering, as well as our understanding of life.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 30, 2005

Breakthrough streamlines complex work assignments

Researchers at Princeton University developed an algorithm to optimally assign funding proposals to reviewers, resolving a long-standing issue for the National Science Foundation. The solution has broad applications in scheduling interns, deploying combat units, and assigning teachers to classes.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·DateNov 16, 2005

Could Abu Ghraib happen again?

Researchers argue that factors like peer pressure, superiors' expectations, and social interactions play a significant role in shaping behavior, not just individual psychology. Fisk suggests that preventing abuse requires understanding these conditions and promoting positive contact between groups.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·DateNov 25, 2004

Delays in cutting greenhouse gasses could harm environment

A new analysis by Princeton University and Brown University scientists found that delaying action on reducing greenhouse gas emissions can result in dramatic environmental consequences. Even reaching the same target level of greenhouse gases, plans would have vastly different effects on ecosystems.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 15, 2004

Beyond biology: Simple system yields custom-designed proteins

Princeton University professor Hecht invents a technique to make protein molecules from scratch with various shapes and compositions. The method involves designing amino acid sequences that fold like natural proteins, potentially leading to the creation of custom-designed proteins for new drugs and industrial processes.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 30, 2003

Wild ape population undergoing 'catastrophic' decline

A study published in Nature reveals that wild chimpanzee and gorilla populations have declined by over 50% in the past few decades, with an estimated 80% decline expected within 30 years. The researchers attribute this to illegal hunting and Ebola outbreaks, highlighting the need for improved anti-poaching laws and Ebola research.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature·DateApr 6, 2003

Study shows how the brain pays attention

Researchers at Princeton University found that the brain circuits controlling eye movements also amplify or suppress signals from specific locations, enabling attention to be directed towards one thing over another. This discovery could provide new insights into attention deficit disorder and other information processing disorders.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature·DateJan 23, 2003

Sugar on the brain: Study shows sugar dependence in rats

A study by Princeton University researchers found that rats who binge on sugar exhibited telltale signs of withdrawal, including 'the shakes' and changes in brain chemistry, when the effects of the sweets were blocked. This suggests that sugar may trigger production of the brain's natural opioids, leading to addiction-like behavior.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalObesity Research·DateJun 20, 2002