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Are we alone? Setting some limits to our uniqueness

A new paper uses exoplanet discoveries to estimate the probability of advanced life evolving on habitable planets. The authors find that unless the odds are extremely low, humanity is likely not the universe's first technological civilization. They calculate a 'pessimism line' below which human uniqueness would be impossible.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalAstrobiology·DateApr 28, 2016

The history of hemodialysis sheds light on the ethical use of limited medical resources

A study on the history of hemodialysis explores how medical research and technological advancements impact resource distribution. The investigation found that bioethical principles, such as autonomy and justice, are weighed differently over time, emphasizing the need for sustainable ethical solutions.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateFeb 11, 2016

Clues to the Earth's ancient core

A study published in Earth and Planetary Science Letters reveals new insights into the Earth's early core by analyzing the magnetic signatures of mineral grains in ancient rocks. The findings, led by Michigan Tech geophysicist Aleksey Smirnov, shed light on the planet's mysterious past.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateJun 4, 2015

Wakefield Court Rolls series

Volume 16 of the Wakefield Court Rolls series edited by Dr John A. Hargreaves details proceedings from 1812 to 1813, showing how the textile industry continued to thrive despite Luddite attacks and economic hardship. The volume includes transcripts of wills, revealing new information on women's rights and property deals.

Contemplating the workplace of tomorrow

Robert Gordon's research focuses on the causes of long-term unemployment and declining labor-force participation, with implications for future economic growth. He will critically evaluate the impact of technological progress on employment and consider policy strategies to mitigate its effects.

Technology 1 step ahead of war laws

The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists explores the impact of emerging military technologies on the laws of war, highlighting the need for new legal thinking and institutions to address asymmetric warfare. The article argues that current international law is no longer sufficient to handle the complexity of modern warfare.

SourceSAGE·JournalBulletin of the Atomic Scientists·DateJan 6, 2014

US researchers ponder modern day virgin births

A study published in The BMJ analyzed data from 7,870 women and found that around 0.5% reported virgin births without using assisted reproductive technology. Virgins were more likely to have signed chastity pledges and had lower levels of communication about sex and birth control with their parents.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 17, 2013

7 Texas A&M professors elected AAAS Fellows

Seven Texas A&M faculty members have been recognized by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) for their contributions to various fields. They include Nancy M. Amato, Perla Beatriz Balbuena, Raymond J. Carroll, Jonathan C. Coopersmith, Bani K. Mallick, H. Joseph Newton, and Matthew S. Sachs.

Giant impact explains Mars dichotomy

Scientists at Caltech used computer modeling to demonstrate that the Mars dichotomy can be explained by one giant impact early in the planet's history. The study found that an impact energy of around 10^29 joules, equivalent to 100 billion gigatons of TNT, would have created the lowlands and highlands on Mars.

Penn State, Chevron launch energy alliance

Penn State has launched a major research alliance with Chevron to develop advanced coal conversion and carbon dioxide management technologies. The partnership aims to promote energy innovation, train new generations of experts in energy, and educate the public about energy issues.

Turning an axel mounted molecular wheel

Researchers successfully control rotation of axel-mounted molecular wheel, marking major breakthrough in creating molecular machines. The achievement opens up new possibilities for technological advancements and understanding at the molecular scale.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 23, 2007