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The Per Brinck Oikos Award 2010

Professor Hanna Kokko has been awarded the Per Brinck Oikos Award 2010 for her groundbreaking research on ecological and evolutionary dynamics. Her work focuses on the interactions between individual behavior, life-history theory, and population dynamics, with applications to conservation and management problems.

SourceWiley·DateOct 21, 2009

Military model shows why defeating insurgent groups like Taliban is so difficult

A new study in Operations Research journal highlights the difficulty of defeating insurgent groups like the Taliban, citing the crucial role of timely and accurate military intelligence. The model shows that even good intelligence may only contain the insurgency, not defeat it, and that the government's best option is to achieve a cont...

Predicting boom and bust ecologies

A University of Calgary researcher has uncovered fundamental rules governing population cycles in natural systems, shedding light on the balancing act between stability and dramatic swings. The study reveals how food availability affects juvenile growth in populations, explaining different types of cycles in predator-prey systems.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalNature·DateOct 29, 2008

New formula predicts how people will migrate in coming decades

Scientists at Rockefeller University have developed a predictive model of worldwide population shifts that will provide more accurate estimates of migration patterns. The model accounts for approximately 60% of the variation in annual numbers of migrants and has the potential to improve resource allocation and economic conditions.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 29, 2008

Novel living system recreates predator-prey interaction

Researchers created a living system using genetically altered bacteria to study the dynamics of interacting populations. The system, which consists of two distinct populations of bacteria that control each other's survival rates, provides a unique model for exploring population changes in a predictable manner.

SourceDuke University·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·DateApr 14, 2008

Doctor who? Are patients making clinical decisions?

As patients gain knowledge, they increasingly demand accurate information and higher expectations for their care. Doctors must balance scientific evidence with patient needs, while maintaining accountability for patient safety and care.

SourceSpringer·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateFeb 11, 2008

Invasive skin cancer a growing problem in Hispanics

The incidence of invasive melanoma has significantly increased among Hispanic males in California between 1988 and 2001. The rate of invasive tumors greater than 0.75mm thick is particularly concerning, with a notable increase among Hispanic men compared to non-Hispanic whites.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateJan 23, 2006

Biodiversity: measuring up to the loss

A new Red List Index measures changes in extinction risk for birds worldwide, showing a steady deterioration between 1988 and 2004. The index provides a reliable baseline to track progress toward the 2010 biodiversity target, with particularly steep declines observed for Asian birds and seabirds affected by commercial long-line fisheries.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateOct 25, 2004

Group dynamics

Researchers explore the role of genetics, social organization, and sexual selection in shaping family structures and behaviors in various species. From pathogens to genes, scientists uncover the intricate mechanisms driving the evolution of complex social systems.

More news in the battle between the sexes

Studies show that foreign males from conflict populations are more costly to females, but benefits of sexual selection may outweigh costs at intermediate levels of conflict. The findings highlight the potential cost of sexual selection and generate a fitness load.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 24, 2004

Women and men differ on adopting healthy behaviors

A recent study found that men are more likely than women to adopt healthy behaviors, such as regular exercise and quitting smoking. Women, on the other hand, were less confident in their ability to make these changes. The researchers hope their findings can be used to assist both men and women with adopting healthier lifestyles.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Behavior·DateNov 17, 2003

Forest fragmentation and birds

Researchers found that some bird species experience population increases when nesting in fragmented landscapes due to the availability of suitable habitats. The study revealed that regional landscape patterns play a significant role in determining population trends among forest-nesting birds.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalEcological Applications·DateApr 17, 2002