According to Irvine, no animals had to be euthanized due to lack of space after Hurricane Charley. She studied how human attitudes and myths influence emergency workers' approach to free-roaming animals during disasters.
The National Science Foundation has awarded $36 million to support two new research centers focused on securing the nation's cyberspace and critical infrastructure. The Cyber Trust initiative aims to develop trustworthy computing systems, improve electronic voting systems, and create a secure cyberinfrastructure for the power grid.
Researchers have developed a method to create densely packed carbon nanotube carpets with an artificial gecko foot-like grip, 200 times stronger than natural geckos. This breakthrough enables the development of dry adhesives for microelectronics, robotics, and other fields.
Computer analysis of Inka knotted objects, known as khipu, reveals patterns supporting record-keeping and state affairs management. The findings shed light on the ancient empire's organizational system, which relied on these textile devices instead of 2-dimensional writing.
Scientists have developed a detailed view of early embryo development in Caenorhabditis elegans, revealing molecular interaction networks that drive growth and specialization. The 'molecular machines' identified by the researchers coordinate proper development, with potential roles for unstudied genes.
Scientists have developed a novel structure made from cell components that can assemble into nanotubes with controllable open or closed states. This innovation has the potential to deliver drugs or genes where they would be most effective, using the natural properties of cells similar to skin and bone.
A new study by Virginia Tech researchers has found that some products passing the National Sanitation Foundation Section 8 standard may have a greater capacity to leach lead into water, exceeding previously believed limits. The study's findings highlight the need for updated standards and regulations to address this complex issue.
A new promoter map has been created to understand how genes are controlled in fibroblasts, providing a framework for analysis of genetic control in other human cell types. The researchers discovered multiple promoters controlling single genes in parallel and found new DNA sequences not previously recognized as genes.
Duke University researchers used a novel system to trace stress flow in granular materials, finding jagged pathways in certain setups. The Chicago Materials Research Center also made significant discoveries, quantifying changes in stress propagation when grains shift from jammed to flowing states.
Researchers from Oregon State University and colleagues used digital particle imaging velocimetry to analyze the wing movement of hummingbirds. The study found that hummingbirds support 75% of their weight during the down stroke and 25% on the up stroke, unlike insects which produce equal amounts of lift during both strokes.
The US National Science Foundation has awarded the highest national honor to 20 young researcher-educators who have made significant contributions to science and engineering. These award recipients will lead the nation in these fields, inspire students, and promote diversity in STEM education.
The NSB presents the Vannevar Bush Award to Robert Galvin, a visionary leader who enhanced US innovation and competitiveness in research and education. The award recognizes his commitment to human capital development and public service.
Nine individuals and five organizations have received the PAESMEM award for broadening opportunities in STEM education for underrepresented groups. The awardees include mentors who have pioneered innovative programs to improve retention rates and graduate success among underrepresented students.
Nine individuals and five organizations were recognized for their outstanding mentorship efforts to broaden opportunities in science, mathematics, and engineering education. The honorees include Lenore Blum, Barbara Burke, Charlena Grimes, Richard Ladner, Jeffrey Russell, Herb Schroeder, John Warner, Steven Watkins, and Elizabeth Yanik.
Researchers have developed a new type of battery that uses tritium to generate electricity, potentially leading to the creation of long-lasting devices. The battery's staying power is tied to the enduring nature of its fuel, which releases electrons through beta decay.
Scientists from TIGR and universities uncover genetic instructions for patellamide production, allowing lab synthesis using E. coli. The discovery solves a decades-long mystery about Prochloron's role in producing these potentially important biochemicals.
The U.S. National Science Foundation and NEH have launched an effort to document dying languages worldwide using modern cyberinfrastructure tools. Over $40 million in funding supports various research projects, including language documentation, archival digitization, and fellowship awards.
Researchers developed an Interactive Scanning Electron Microscope (iSEM) system to simulate the capabilities of a $200,000 analytical instrument in classrooms. Students can measure and analyze objects in detail, simulating real-world experiments previously only accessible to graduate students.
Dalton Conley, a prominent NYU sociologist, has been recognized as one of the nation's top young sociologists by the National Science Foundation. His research focuses on how socioeconomic status and advantage are transmitted through generations, leading to social inequality, and explores how biological and social factors interact to pr...
A team of researchers from Penn State University has developed a bacteria-driven cell that produces hydrogen for fuel while simultaneously cleaning wastewater. The innovation utilizes a microbial fuel cell to harness the power of microorganisms to generate electricity and purify water.
Researchers aboard the drilling vessel JOIDES Resolution recovered rocks from over 4,644 feet below the sea floor, providing valuable information about the composition of the Earth. The effort missed its target of reaching the Earth's mantle by less than 1,000 feet, but will still provide important clues on how ocean crust forms.
Researchers discovered RNA loops and knots play a crucial role in A-to-I RNA recoding, enabling species-specific editing of proteins. By understanding these molecular structures, scientists can gain insights into the genetic code and improve our ability to interpret genome information.
Researchers have developed a new method to measure surface waves from normal seismic noise, providing better resolution of the Earth's interior. This technique promises significant improvements in crust and upper mantle image quality down to 60 miles within the Earth.
Eight prominent researchers are awarded the Presidential National Medal of Science, including R. Duncan Luce, J. Michael Bishop, Solomon H. Snyder, Charles Yanofsky, John M. Prausnitz, and Carl R. de Boor, for their pioneering work in various fields of science and engineering.
The High-Altitude Particle Experiment Aircraft (HIAPER) is a modified Gulfstream V jet that can fly up to 51,000 feet and cover 7,000 miles. With its advanced capabilities, HIAPER will allow scientists to study atmospheric processes, environmental phenomena, and interactions between oceans and atmosphere.
A powerful tool, BeatTheTraffic.com, crunches commutes by predicting the best time to hit the road and suggests alternate routes. Researchers have found that many commuters can save more time by altering their departure time than using mass transit.
Researchers found unique organisms thriving in highly alkaline fluids rich in methane and hydrogen, differing from black-smoker vent ecosystems. The discovery may provide insights into the origins of life on Earth and potential signs of life elsewhere.
Researchers have re-dated the Omo hominids fossils to approximately 196,000 years old, nearly 40,000 years older than previously thought. The discovery provides new insights into early human evolution and migration patterns.
Researchers unveiled a new breed of energy-efficient bipedal robots with a human-like gait. The robots use passive-dynamic walking devices to reduce power consumption, enabling applications in prosthetic devices and robotic control.
Research shows that while limited TV time may be beneficial, excessive screen time can hinder cognitive development. Children's computer use also has pros and cons, with benefits in learning and socialization outweighing drawbacks.
The U.S. National Science Foundation has submitted a $5.6 billion budget request for fiscal year 2006, representing a 2.4% increase over the previous year's budget. The agency plans to focus on research in frontier areas and provide support for the workforce, despite some tough choices ahead.
The CCEN team will investigate how social, emotional and cultural factors influence learning, as well as the mechanisms of human learning across contexts. The center aims to carry out basic research on how people learn and connect scientists with practitioners to effect meaningful change in the lives of students.
A new nanoscale diagnostic technique has been developed to detect possible traces of Alzheimer's disease in cerebrospinal fluid. The procedure uses magnetic and DNA particles to identify biomarkers, which could lead to early diagnosis and effective treatment if proven successful.
Researchers propose a new naming system for bird neurosystems, revealing similarities to mammalian brains. The revised nomenclature reflects recent discoveries in neural processing and behavior, highlighting the cognitive abilities of birds comparable to those of mammals.
The NSF report reveals a significant increase in the number of minority scientists and engineers earning research doctorates, with 17% of all doctorate recipients being from underrepresented groups. Women also maintained their percentage of earned doctorates, while most graduates received financial support from university fellowships.
Researchers have unearthed four-million-year-old ancestral fossils at the Gona site in Ethiopia, shedding light on early human evolution. The discovery offers a unique glimpse into the anatomy and behavioral capabilities of our ancient relatives, revealing that they lived in low-lying areas with swamps, springs, and volcanic centers.
Researchers developed carbon nanotube-based composite materials to maximize frictional damping in mechanical systems. The findings show that these materials can effectively reduce vibration and energy dissipation, making them a promising solution for various applications.
Researchers have developed an imaging chip that can capture images with more detail, even under harsh lighting conditions. The new device uses a software program called Shadow Illuminator to balance exposure and improve contrast, revealing hidden textures and details in images.
Scientists have found that climate change is a major contributing factor to droughts' increasing frequency and severity, with rising temperatures accounting for almost half of the global trend. The study used a unique analysis to estimate how much of the global trend in soil moisture was due solely to warming-induced evaporation.
The Gemini Observatory has released three striking new images showcasing the 'Fireworks Galaxy', an interacting galaxy pair, and an extremely active stellar nursery. These images highlight the prolific galaxy NGC 6946, which is ablaze with galactic fireworks fueled by the births and deaths of multitudes of brilliant, massive stars.
Researchers have built a laboratory model of the Earth's molten core using sodium metal to simulate its behavior. The Madison Dynamo Experiment is designed to fill gaps in current understanding of how magnetic fields arise and grow, shedding light on fundamental questions about the planet's magnetic field generation.
A newly discovered civilization in Peru's Norte Chico region thrived 5000 years ago, featuring monumental architecture and a complex economy. The finding sheds new light on the development of complex societies, challenging previous assumptions about early civilizations.
The sequencing of S. pomeroyi, an ocean bacterium, provides valuable tools to understand its functions and impact on the atmosphere. Early investigation reveals 4,283 regions in the genome that predict protein synthesis and cellular machinery.
The massive iceberg B-15A poses no obstacle to the resupply ships at McMurdo Station, with the U.S. Coast Guard icebreaker Polar Star on track to clear a channel through the sea ice. NSF has arranged for a backup icebreaker to assist if necessary.
International study shows select improvements in US math and science performance, particularly among minority students. Fourth-grade students showed no change, while eighth-grade students made notable progress, especially in algebra and science.
Scientists at Georgia Tech have developed a new instrument to measure conditions needed for particle to become a cloud droplet, improving predictions of cloud formation. The new method provides accurate predictions thousands of times faster than existing models.
Ocean drilling research advances understanding of rapid climate change, including the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum. The study also explores climate triggers and effects on various scales, from tectonic uplift to human history. Additionally, new findings challenge traditional theories on volcanic regions.
A research team has found evidence of microbes living in a rock glacier for the first time, challenging previous assumptions about these environments. The discovery was made in Colorado and is similar to recent findings in Antarctica, where scientists had previously discovered life in inhospitable regions.
Researchers at Illinois have developed a new class of biological sensors using single-walled carbon nanotubes. These sensors can detect glucose concentrations in human tissue, providing potential applications for diabetes management and other medical conditions.
Researchers discovered a genetic set of keys that unlocks the mystery of why some people can eat fatty foods without suffering from heart disease. The study found significant variations in genes associated with sugar and fat metabolism, which explain much of the variation in cardiac metabolism.