News from the institutes and societies that organize science. Covers scientific medals, university-hospital partnerships, oncology cooperatives, and society leadership.
Phytoplankton distribution varies between hemispheres, with greater impact on climate in southern hemisphere due to higher DMS flux and species producing more DMS. The effect of plankton on Earth's temperature is small compared to other compounds like carbon dioxide and CFCs.
The Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research published five English-language books examining Dutch culture from 1650 to 2000. The books cover topics such as science, art, music, literature, education, religion, and urbanization.
Researchers found that wasps with broken-up facial patterns signal their quality and status. Those who don't signal honestly receive social sanctions, including harassment from dominant wasps. The study provides conclusive evidence that dishonest visual signals have a social cost in the wasp world.
Research funded by ESRC found that organisations with informal contact networks are more flexible and effective in responding to environmental crises. Informal networking broadens knowledge, establishes trust and enables quicker decision-making in emergencies.
The Max Planck Partner Institute in China will focus on computational biology, training young researchers, and collaborating with Chinese universities. The institute aims to integrate cutting-edge research competencies from both German and Chinese sides.
Researchers used mathematical and computer models to analyze horse movement and structure, discovering that horses with stiff legs are more prone to injury. The study found that fast horses can bring their legs forward quickly in preparation for the next stride, but this is more difficult for large and long-legged horses.
A recent study found that dementing patients' hyperactivity is worsened when care-providing family members employ a non-adaptive strategy, which includes being impatient and irritated. Adjusting this approach can help alleviate behavioural problems and improve the quality of life for both carers and patients.
Researchers used DNA barcoding to discover that the Astraptes fulgerator butterfly is comprised of at least 10 separate species, each with distinct caterpillars and food plant preferences. This finding highlights the complexity of biodiversity and raises questions about wildlife conservation.
Researchers at U of T found that municipal wastewater contains enough organic material to generate significant amounts of electricity. By using anaerobic digestion instead of aerobic treatment, wastewater treatment plants could produce enough electricity for their own operations and potentially export excess energy to the grid.
A new Web-based template helps Internet buyers and sellers with clear privacy policies, leading to increased trust and online sales. The study found that shoppers who used the template bought products 33% more often than those presented with standard policy statements.
Researchers at the University of Michigan are creating a larger, multidisciplinary community in their chemistry department by organizing conferences, research rotations, and regular social events. This initiative aims to foster collaboration, teamwork, and communication skills among students.
Researchers found that individuals in a positive mood tend to have unreliable memories and poor critical thinking skills, while those in a negative mood provide more accurate eyewitness accounts. In contrast, a negative mood state triggers more systematic information processing, leading to superior thinking and communication skills.
Research by University of Toronto criminologists reveals a systematic bias against Aboriginal women prisoners, leading to unfair classification rates and reduced privileges. The study found that 60% of Aboriginal women were classified as medium security risks despite committing fewer infractions in prison.
The American Physiological Society has awarded over $36,000 to its 2004 undergraduate research fellows. The fellowships cover travel and living expenses during a 10-week fellowship program.
A petition from 52 leading European scientific organisations calls for the acceleration of establishing a European Research Council (ERC). The petition stresses the importance of involving the European scientific community and adhering to strict criteria of scientific excellence.
Researchers found that men and women have different spatial orientations in environments due to physiological differences, such as inner ear size. The study suggests that these differences affect how individuals orient themselves in various situations.
A Queen's biologist calls for immediate protection for two distinct rock ptarmigan populations in Newfoundland and Alaska, citing genetic differences and threats from human activities. The study's findings suggest that these populations should be considered separate species, deserving special preservation under the Species at Risk Act.
University of Washington researchers have found giant raindrops with diameters similar to or greater than the largest ever recorded. The largest ones were at least 8 millimeters in diameter, possibly a centimeter, suggesting unique conditions led to their formation.
A recent study has revealed surprisingly mature galaxies in the early universe, contradicting the long-held hierarchical model of galaxy formation. The Gemini Deep Deep Survey found that a large fraction of stars in massive galaxies were already present at 8 billion years old.
Researchers discovered a previously unknown reaction that converts fluorotelomer alcohols into perfluorinated carboxylic acids (PFCAs) in the atmosphere, which can last up to 20 days. The chemicals were found in polar bear liver tissue samples and may pose developmental risks to humans living in the Arctic.
Experts will argue that refugees and their families contribute significantly to British life, bringing incalculable social and economic benefits. The discussion aims to correct common misconceptions about refugees and highlight their skills and talent.
A new study reveals that children with Progeria experience progressive nuclear structure and function defects due to the accumulation of defective Lamin A protein. The findings provide critical insights into the cause of heart disease and cellular aging in this fatal disease.
Prof. Ben Feringa, Prof. Rien van Ijzendoorn, Prof. Michiel van der Klis and Prof. Jaap Sinninghe Damsté were awarded the prestigious NWO Spinoza prize for their innovative research in chemistry, education and astronomy. The winners made significant contributions to their respective fields, including the discovery of an X-ray star and ...
Researchers at UCLA successfully synthesized three identical, mutually interlocking Borromean rings around six metal templates. The complex seven-step synthesis required the use of computational chemistry and a high-risk approach.
A new study published in Nature Neuroscience reveals that a specific group of neurons in the brain, known as the ARC pacemaker, play a crucial role in regulating hunger and satiety signals. This finely balanced mechanism can go wrong if one small error occurs, leading to difficulties in weight management through diet and exercise alone.
Researchers have translated 43 hymns from the Atharvaveda into English, providing insight into centuries-old rituals. The hymns, written in Vedic Sanskrit, were used by priests to venerate gods, heal diseases, and exorcise evil spirits.
Researchers found that salt-tolerant rice varieties can be accurately predicted using DNA markers and a crop growth model, allowing breeders to select the best varieties for specific conditions. This is crucial for increasing yields in areas with sub-optimal conditions, such as those affected by salinity.
A team of scientists has found that water molecules in liquid form clump much more loosely than previously believed, challenging 20 years of research. This discovery reopens the hunt for a better understanding of water's unique properties and potential applications in fields like biology.
The experiment detected three events consistent with the rare K meson decay, which occurs once in every 7 billion decays. The result suggests a possible departure from the Standard Model, but further analysis is needed to confirm or rule out the discrepancy.
The International Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research has presented several awards and fellowships to dental researchers in Hawaii. These include the IADR Distinguished Service Award, E.W. Borrow Memorial Award, and William J. Gies Award, among others.
Dr. Helen Gift, a renowned dental researcher, has been awarded the prestigious IADR Distinguished Scientist Award in Behavioral Sciences & Health Services Research. Her research focuses on promoting oral health among US veterans, with a particular emphasis on disease prevention and health promotion.
Researchers have discovered a way to harness biomolecular mechanisms in marine sponges to produce semiconductors and photovoltaic materials. The discovery represents a low-temperature, environmentally friendly route to nanostructural fabrication of valuable materials.
The European organization aims to create a virtual office to facilitate international collaboration and development of new research programs. Researchers will be able to work from various locations throughout Europe.
A study of nearly 200 patients found that company doctor adherence to guideline standards reduced absenteeism but decreased patient satisfaction. Factors such as employee pessimism and anxiety disorders also predicted unfavourable outcomes.
The Netherlands has established two new research centers, NIVAREC and PRIOR, to develop and produce flu vaccines and tackle poverty-related infectious diseases. The centers aim to strengthen cooperation between researchers from different institutes and foster knowledge infrastructure in developing countries.
Researcher Charles Sanchez finds perchlorate in lettuce foliage, mainly in discarded frame and wrapper leaves. The study aims to assess the extent of perchlorate accumulation in soils and groundwater sources.
Heather Jackson's research reveals ordinary scribbles and famous cases like Blake, Coleridge, and Keats help us understand past times better. The study explores how people thought about books, reading, and themselves, challenging the notion of consumers.
A team of scientists has successfully used a 'robot scientist' to discover the function of about 30% of genes in baker's yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), which could lead to major medical breakthroughs. The robot, trained on biochemistry knowledge, designed experiments and analyzed data using plate readers.
University of Central Florida researchers are testing a new way to communicate with soldiers through vibrations, aiming to reduce distractions and improve safety. The study, funded by the U.S. Department of Defense, explores whether coded vibrations can be an effective alternative to traditional communication methods.
A study found that 10% of employees experience work-family conflict, leading to increased risk of prolonged fatigue and absenteeism. The study revealed that characteristics from both work and home situations contribute to this conflict, with flexible work arrangements reducing the risk.
Research shows that wind turbines can be integrated into electricity grids without major issues, but the type of turbine affects measures needed. Simulation models helped investigate how wind turbines impact grid stability, revealing two fundamental differences from conventional power stations.
The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and NASA's Glenn Research Center have partnered to develop new sealing technologies for solid oxide fuel cells. The goal is to improve the strength and fracture toughness of composite glass and glass-ceramic-based seals, enabling long-term stable operation of SOFCs.
Duke University offers a tropical biology research experience with stipend, airfare, and accommodation, as well as equipment allowance. Applications are due by March 1, 2004, for faculty at minority serving institutions.
Researchers conduct simulations of collapsed buildings using arena environments, focusing on advanced algorithms, sensors, and mechanisms for improved robot performance. The competition aims to increase the relevance of events for real emergencies by incorporating new limitations and sensor identifications.
The McGill Centre for Intellectual Property Policy has received a $3 million grant from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada to examine patent systems and their impact on society. The research aims to inform policy-makers in Canada and globally about how to balance industry interests with societal benefits.
A new study reveals that Western perceptions of the Muslim world vary greatly depending on gender. Women tend to perceive Islamic culture as sensual and attractive, while men often view it as uncivilized and barbaric. This disparity highlights a complex interplay between cultural stereotypes and media representation.
The Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences (INFORMS) has recognized 2003 Fellow Award winners for their significant contributions to the field of operations research and management science. The recipients include prominent academics, practitioners, and educators in various fields.
The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCAM) has awarded planning grants to 12 international centers for research on complementary and alternative medicine. These partnerships will allow researchers to conduct studies in unique environments and potentially lead to significant advances in global health. The grant...
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) has established two new research centers to investigate the underlying mechanisms and potential benefits of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). The first two Centers of Excellence, funded with $5.9 million and $5.8 million grants, will focus on studying ac...
The NCCAM-funded Developmental Centers for Research on Complementary and Alternative Medicine aim to increase the quality and quantity of CAM research, promote expertise, and foster partnerships between CAM and conventional institutions. The first two centers focus on chiropractic manipulation and acupuncture, respectively.
Researchers at the University of Illinois discovered that the timeless gene is essential for regulating the 24-hour circadian rhythm in mammals. Blocking its functional ability disrupts the clock's activity and leads to an uncoupling effect, where other clock genes are no longer able to function properly.
PLoS Biology features peer-reviewed research articles on diverse topics, making outstanding science freely available worldwide. The journal's open-access model aims to increase interdisciplinary collaboration, speed scientific discovery, and potentially save lives.
The Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research (NWO) has awarded VIDI grants to 79 talented young researchers who have developed innovative scientific research ideas. The successful candidates will receive funding to develop their own research lines, with NWO covering almost 70% of the budget.
Researchers at the University of Aberdeen and Glasgow aim to analyze biomolecules trapped in rocks dating back millions to billions of years, potentially revealing secrets about life's origin. The three-year initiative will also explore miniaturizing the technique for use on spacecraft traveling to other planets.
Contaminated water from abandoned mines in Colorado's Summit County is affecting artificial snowmaking and tourism, impacting $9 billion industry. Heavy metals are detected in headwater drainages, posing a risk to aquatic life and other sports.
A two-year research project on Minneapolis-based Definity Health found that it attracted higher-income families and was popular among those aged 35-44. Consumer-driven plans also showed an increase in demand for prescription drugs over time.
Researchers are investigating how ethanol content affects exhaust emissions from vehicles meeting current and upcoming emission standards. The study aims to better understand the impact of fuel properties on toxic emissions entering the atmosphere.
The NWO/Spinoza prize is awarded to Dutch researchers who rank among the world's top scientists. Four winners were recognized for their outstanding contributions in economics, history, and physics.
Anthony Hyman, group leader at Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, wins prestigious EMBO Gold Medal. His research focuses on microtubules' role in cell division, shedding light on their dynamics and functions.
The American Physiological Society (APS) has awarded over $33,000 to its 2003 undergraduate research fellows. The fellowships provide stipends and travel funds to support the research of talented young scientists.