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Michael Trott, © Wolfram Research,Inc. The possibility of mathematical power laws governing the scaling of fundamental biological properties, such as metabolic rate, within a species group has been strongly suspected for almost a century. But since 1997, the laws have been confirmed by overwhelming experimental evidence and backed by convincing mathematical theory. Before, research biologists were puzzled by the fact that a wide range of ultimately related properties, such as aortal surf

Since Sputnik, hardly a year goes by without the federal government, some nonprofit foundation, or a large corporation launching schemes to entice people into research careers. These initiatives, meant to improve the quality of our science and bring about technological, medical, and other advances, offer educational opportunities and financial incentives. Sensible as these programs often are, they do not consider some of the most important motives that draw people to science and the personal

 Click for larger version (45K) A past Snapshot showed that more than 80% of scientists regularly watch television. We surveyed 317 readers to find out what they turned on. Not surprisingly in these difficult times, more than 80% frequently watch news and news programs. A solid 68% click on science documentaries, followed by more escapist fare--movies and comedy programs. Our readers' favorite regularly watched program, and most preferred all-time show, is CSI: Crime Scene Investigation.

Celebrations for DNA and its sequence in humans.

New EU report reveals drop in number of field-based trials of genetically modified crops.

Staff demand withdrawal of proposals to relocate National Institute for Medical Research.

Although the human genome is done, the genome institute still has plenty to do.

genome sequence confirms uniqueness and link to disease.

Next executive director embodies shift in organization's direction.

AAAS colloquium explores problems and priorities for US science and technology.

variation between individuals is next challenge.

From the inbox: No shoe-borne SARS, and no academic police state, thank you.