mamie25 - Ministry of Science & Technology Sanctions 530 New Projects in 2009-10: "A status report on 'Technology Business Incubation in India' was prepared and brought out which would help all relevant organizations, stakeholders and concerned people to shape their offerings for better overall effectiveness of the incubator program and help and build the desired ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship.
For International Collaboration in S&T about 300 Joint R&D projects and 20 Joint workshops/seminars were supported. More than 600 exchange visits took place for joint research, information exchange and joint use of facilities. 10 joint industrial R&D projects were approved under collaboration with Israel, Canada and Switzerland. Support to Indo-French Centre for Promotion of Advanced Research (IFCPAR), Indo-US S&T Forum (IUSSTF) and Indo-German S&T Centre (IGSTC) was continued."
Thursday, December 23, 2010
India launches Bhuvan, rival to Google Earth - Times Online
India launches Bhuvan, rival to Google Earth - Times Online: "India has launched a rival to Google Earth, the search engine's hugely popular satellite imagery service.
The online tool, dubbed Bhuvan (Sanskrit for Earth), has been developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro). Its debut comes as India redoubles its efforts to reap profits from its 45-year-old state-sponsored space programme, criticised by some as a drain on a country where 700 million people live on $US2 a day or less.
The new site also follows in the slipstream of the country's first moon probe, Chandrayaan-1, which successfully reached the lunar surface last November.
Bhuvan uses a network of Indian satellites to create a high-resolution, birds-eye view of India that is accessible at no cost online and will compete with Google Earth.
The service has been specially designed to run smoothly on the low bandwidth internet connections that most Indian web users have to make do with. Even so, attempts by The Times to access yesterday morning failed - possibly because of a flood of users eager to test the site."
The online tool, dubbed Bhuvan (Sanskrit for Earth), has been developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro). Its debut comes as India redoubles its efforts to reap profits from its 45-year-old state-sponsored space programme, criticised by some as a drain on a country where 700 million people live on $US2 a day or less.
The new site also follows in the slipstream of the country's first moon probe, Chandrayaan-1, which successfully reached the lunar surface last November.
Bhuvan uses a network of Indian satellites to create a high-resolution, birds-eye view of India that is accessible at no cost online and will compete with Google Earth.
The service has been specially designed to run smoothly on the low bandwidth internet connections that most Indian web users have to make do with. Even so, attempts by The Times to access yesterday morning failed - possibly because of a flood of users eager to test the site."
Bonjour Planet Earth: India launches Switzerland's first satellite...
Bonjour Planet Earth: India launches Switzerland's first satellite...: "India launches Switzerland's first satellite...
SwissCube, a satellite designed entirely by engineering students, has been successfully launched from a site in India. It is Switzerland's first home-grown satellite.
The mission of the gift box-sized device is to map airglow, the faint bands of green and mauve light caused when the sun's high-energy radiation collides with atoms and molecules in the upper atmosphere.
'Mission accomplished,' said an emotional Muriel Noca, project coordinator at the Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL). 'I can't believe how smoothly it went as so many things can go wrong.'"
SwissCube, a satellite designed entirely by engineering students, has been successfully launched from a site in India. It is Switzerland's first home-grown satellite.
The mission of the gift box-sized device is to map airglow, the faint bands of green and mauve light caused when the sun's high-energy radiation collides with atoms and molecules in the upper atmosphere.
'Mission accomplished,' said an emotional Muriel Noca, project coordinator at the Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL). 'I can't believe how smoothly it went as so many things can go wrong.'"
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Lviv Regional Innovation Development Policy
Lviv Regional Innovation Development Policy: "Duration: November 2010—February 2012
According to the World Economic Forum rating in 2009, Ukraine occupied the 52nd place in the area of forming factors for innovative development; 65th place in the area of new technologies; and 114th out of 134 countries in intellectual property rights production. In Ukraine the number of innovatively active businesses is decreasing, along with lower performance of high technology industries. These circumstances have a major negative impact on the competiveness of the national economy. The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine admits that the basic foundations of national public policy in the area of national innovation system have not yet been laid."
According to the World Economic Forum rating in 2009, Ukraine occupied the 52nd place in the area of forming factors for innovative development; 65th place in the area of new technologies; and 114th out of 134 countries in intellectual property rights production. In Ukraine the number of innovatively active businesses is decreasing, along with lower performance of high technology industries. These circumstances have a major negative impact on the competiveness of the national economy. The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine admits that the basic foundations of national public policy in the area of national innovation system have not yet been laid."
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Building knowledge-based economies: It’s difficult but not impossible - Arab News
Building knowledge-based economies: It’s difficult but not impossible - Arab News: "Building knowledge-based economies: It’s difficult but not impossible
By MOHAMED A. RAMADY
Published: Dec 20, 2010 23:54 Updated: Dec 21, 2010 00:03
The new buzzword now is aspiring to transform traditional manufacturing and service economies to “knowledge based” ones. The fever has caught on to natural resource endowed economies, which see some aspiring to diversify their single resource economic base. However, simply stating that a country is moving toward a knowledge-based economic foundation and structure is easier said then done, as educational, bureaucratic and social inertia can be insurmountable obstacles. How these are willingly changed and accepted by the population at large is a critical factor for success."
By MOHAMED A. RAMADY
Published: Dec 20, 2010 23:54 Updated: Dec 21, 2010 00:03
The new buzzword now is aspiring to transform traditional manufacturing and service economies to “knowledge based” ones. The fever has caught on to natural resource endowed economies, which see some aspiring to diversify their single resource economic base. However, simply stating that a country is moving toward a knowledge-based economic foundation and structure is easier said then done, as educational, bureaucratic and social inertia can be insurmountable obstacles. How these are willingly changed and accepted by the population at large is a critical factor for success."
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Learning from The Wisdom of Crowds | Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching
Learning from The Wisdom of Crowds | Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching: "we’re interested in spreading what is learned. Surowiecki writes that “invention may still be an individual enterprise, but selecting among inventions is a collective one.” And he adds, “used well, imitation is a powerful tool for spreading good ideas fast.”"
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Europeans and biotechnologies in 2010 - Winds of change?
Europeans and biotechnologies in 2010 - Winds of change?: "Europeans and biotechnologies in 2010 - Winds of change?
(Nanowerk News) The European Commission has released their new report 'Europeans and biotechnology in 2010 – Winds of change?' (pdf). This latest Eurobarometer survey on the Life Sciences and Biotechnology, which also specifically addresses nanotechnologies in the context of biotechnology, is based on representative samples from 32 European countries and conducted in February 2010. The report points to a new era in the relations between science and society. While entrenched views about GM food are still evident, the crisis of confidence in technology and regulation that characterised the 1990s – a result of BSE, contaminated blood and other perceived regulatory failures – is no longer the dominant perspective."
(Nanowerk News) The European Commission has released their new report 'Europeans and biotechnology in 2010 – Winds of change?' (pdf). This latest Eurobarometer survey on the Life Sciences and Biotechnology, which also specifically addresses nanotechnologies in the context of biotechnology, is based on representative samples from 32 European countries and conducted in February 2010. The report points to a new era in the relations between science and society. While entrenched views about GM food are still evident, the crisis of confidence in technology and regulation that characterised the 1990s – a result of BSE, contaminated blood and other perceived regulatory failures – is no longer the dominant perspective."
Monday, November 15, 2010
High Tech Plastic Potential
High Tech Plastic Potential: "Plastic Electronics (PE) is the general term to describe electronics based on semiconducting organic materials as opposed to silicon semiconductors. However PE is much more than that and production economies are very different from conventional electronics making it possible to consider products with radically different price points, functionality and performance. The nascent PE sector offers new global market opportunities and the potential applications are numerous, from point-of-care medical diagnostic devices, smart packaging, novel drug delivery devices to real-time newspapers, smart clothing, flexible solar cells and displays. The UK is at the forefront of this technology revolution with numerous centres of excellence and expertise across the PE supply chain, including material suppliers, device manufacturers, technology developers and equipment makers."
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Towards new growth business - thisisFINLAND: Facts: Politics & economy
Towards new growth business - thisisFINLAND: Facts: Politics & economy: "Stimulating clusters
Amid the severe recession of the early 1990s, Finland embraced a national export-led cluster strategy, which proved enormously successful – but has now been exhausted.
In the past two decades, the Finnish core clusters – forestry (dominated by UPM-Kymmene, Stora Enso and Mets�liitto), metal engineering (Kone, Metso, Outokumpu and Ruukki), mobile communication (Nokia) and chemicals (Kemira and Orion) – have demonstrated increasing productivity and innovation.
These flagship companies have given rise to new business, but their clusters have not led to new growth firms.
In the Finnish national innovation system, there have been increasing efforts to “stimulate” new business through a dozen national competence clusters, more than 20 centres of expertise, and half a dozen public-private strategic centres for science, technology and innovation.
Along with an array of technology development and innovation institutions, these initiatives seek to facilitate international competence as a resource in business operations, job creation and regional development.
Still, a critical mass of new growth businesses has not yet materialised."
Amid the severe recession of the early 1990s, Finland embraced a national export-led cluster strategy, which proved enormously successful – but has now been exhausted.
In the past two decades, the Finnish core clusters – forestry (dominated by UPM-Kymmene, Stora Enso and Mets�liitto), metal engineering (Kone, Metso, Outokumpu and Ruukki), mobile communication (Nokia) and chemicals (Kemira and Orion) – have demonstrated increasing productivity and innovation.
These flagship companies have given rise to new business, but their clusters have not led to new growth firms.
In the Finnish national innovation system, there have been increasing efforts to “stimulate” new business through a dozen national competence clusters, more than 20 centres of expertise, and half a dozen public-private strategic centres for science, technology and innovation.
Along with an array of technology development and innovation institutions, these initiatives seek to facilitate international competence as a resource in business operations, job creation and regional development.
Still, a critical mass of new growth businesses has not yet materialised."
Monday, November 1, 2010
Adaptive Governance
Adaptive Governance: "Adaptive Governance
Whether we speak of 'people and ecosystems' as the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment does or 'coupled social and ecological systems' as the emerging literature on adaptive governance does, it is clear that the present, past and future of human and biophysical systems are closely and intricately interconnected. This presents significant challenges for developing effective governance responses.
More often than not policy developers and decision-makers are faced with:
1. Problems of Complexity: intricate nature of ecosystem dynamics, differing spatial reach and temporal dimensions, impact of thresholds and feedback loops, and human dimensions
2. Problems of Uncertainty and Change: science is incomplete, some of our understandings may be wrong, some ecological and social changes are not foreseen, existing knowledge is not fully integrated
3. Problems of Fragmentation: the governance landscape is not sufficiently linked or co-ordinated, centralisation and decentralisation of governance is often not appropriately balanced, important users and constituents are outside the process
To address complex interaction and to manage uncertainty and periods of change, governance approaches that are adaptive have much to offer. A key characteristic of adaptive governance is collaborative, flexible and learning-based issue management across different scales.
Whether we speak of 'people and ecosystems' as the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment does or 'coupled social and ecological systems' as the emerging literature on adaptive governance does, it is clear that the present, past and future of human and biophysical systems are closely and intricately interconnected. This presents significant challenges for developing effective governance responses.
More often than not policy developers and decision-makers are faced with:
1. Problems of Complexity: intricate nature of ecosystem dynamics, differing spatial reach and temporal dimensions, impact of thresholds and feedback loops, and human dimensions
2. Problems of Uncertainty and Change: science is incomplete, some of our understandings may be wrong, some ecological and social changes are not foreseen, existing knowledge is not fully integrated
3. Problems of Fragmentation: the governance landscape is not sufficiently linked or co-ordinated, centralisation and decentralisation of governance is often not appropriately balanced, important users and constituents are outside the process
To address complex interaction and to manage uncertainty and periods of change, governance approaches that are adaptive have much to offer. A key characteristic of adaptive governance is collaborative, flexible and learning-based issue management across different scales.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Paradigm-Breaking Books | Paradigm-Breaking Books
Paradigm-Breaking Books | Paradigm-Breaking Books: "Paradigm-Breaking Books
Look at important issues in a fresh way, implicitly or explicitly breaking old paradigms. Some of the new out-of-the-box ideas are likely to become the “ideas in power” of the future."
Look at important issues in a fresh way, implicitly or explicitly breaking old paradigms. Some of the new out-of-the-box ideas are likely to become the “ideas in power” of the future."
Innovate and integrate: Report – Literature review
Innovate and integrate: Report – Literature review: "General theories and models of innovation diffusion
The work of Nutley et al. (2002) from the Research Unit for Research Utilisation, University of St Andrews in the UK, provides a comprehensive conceptual synthesis of the key ideas, models and implementation implications drawn from the adoption and diffusion of innovations literature. The paper provides a thorough overview of major theorists and provides an analytical review of innovation research contained within a four-part framework:
1. types of knowledge
2. types of utilisation
3. models of process
4. ways of seeing.
It also summarises the factors drawn from the literature review which affect the likelihood that a particular innovation will be adopted. These factors are innovation attributes, adopter characteristics, environmental/context characteristics, the characteristics of those promoting the innovation and communication channels."
The work of Nutley et al. (2002) from the Research Unit for Research Utilisation, University of St Andrews in the UK, provides a comprehensive conceptual synthesis of the key ideas, models and implementation implications drawn from the adoption and diffusion of innovations literature. The paper provides a thorough overview of major theorists and provides an analytical review of innovation research contained within a four-part framework:
1. types of knowledge
2. types of utilisation
3. models of process
4. ways of seeing.
It also summarises the factors drawn from the literature review which affect the likelihood that a particular innovation will be adopted. These factors are innovation attributes, adopter characteristics, environmental/context characteristics, the characteristics of those promoting the innovation and communication channels."
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Commission europ�enne : CORDIS : Nouvelles : Le r�le de l'innovation dans les d�fis futurs
Commission europ�enne : CORDIS : Nouvelles : Le r�le de l'innovation dans les d�fis futurs: "�Nous nous concentrons sur la mani�re de transformer ces connaissances en pouvoir de march�, en emplois et en salaires�, ajoute-t-il, insistant sur le fait que l'innovation ne se cantonne pas �la recherche et la science mais concerne tout le monde, et notamment les citoyens."
Thursday, October 21, 2010
EurActiv.com Correspondent’s Choice � Blog Archive � EU Needs Innovation Czar
EurActiv.com Correspondent’s Choice � Blog Archive � EU Needs Innovation Czar: "“Innovation needs a champion at the highest level. The next Commission President should guide innovation policy and encourage national governments to work together,” he said.
Plischke said the EU has plenty of research initiatives but lacks joined-up thinking. “Having 27 different approaches does not help,” he said."
Plischke said the EU has plenty of research initiatives but lacks joined-up thinking. “Having 27 different approaches does not help,” he said."
Barroso II seeks to streamline innovation policy | EurActiv
Barroso II seeks to streamline innovation policy | EurActiv: "He said the EU executive does 'too many little things that make too little impact' and needs a stronger strategy. President Barroso, he said, is looking at restructuring the Commission to give a 'more targeted, concentrated innovation policy'.
Verheugen said the Commission will publish a European Innovation Act modelled on the Small Business Act by spring 2010, and he indicated that the low-carbon economy and innovation will be central to the post-Lisbon Agenda. The new blueprint for innovation could be expected to focus on innovative SMEs and entrepreneurship given the influence of DG Enterprise in crafting the document."
Verheugen said the Commission will publish a European Innovation Act modelled on the Small Business Act by spring 2010, and he indicated that the low-carbon economy and innovation will be central to the post-Lisbon Agenda. The new blueprint for innovation could be expected to focus on innovative SMEs and entrepreneurship given the influence of DG Enterprise in crafting the document."
Barroso II seeks to streamline innovation policy | EurActiv
Barroso II seeks to streamline innovation policy | EurActiv: "European Commission President Jos�Manuel Barroso has said innovation will be at the heart of the next Commission, but what precisely does that mean given the horizontal nature of innovation policy?
The president has not been short of advice. Bruegel, a think-tank, has suggested appointing a 'commissioner for the Knowledge Economy' to be responsible for 'the three sides of the knowledge triangle: higher education, research and innovation'."
The president has not been short of advice. Bruegel, a think-tank, has suggested appointing a 'commissioner for the Knowledge Economy' to be responsible for 'the three sides of the knowledge triangle: higher education, research and innovation'."
EU patient mobility law to spark eHealth revolution | EurActiv
EU patient mobility law to spark eHealth revolution | EurActiv: "On a grander scale, sharing test results and medical imaging between hospitals can prove challenging, making cross-border cooperation a real challenge. On top of this, language and terminology differences, as well as data protection concerns, make sending information between member states problematic."
Friday, October 8, 2010
About | Singularity University
About | Singularity University: "Singularity University is an interdisciplinary university whose mission is to assemble, educate and inspire leaders who strive to understand and facilitate the development of exponentially advancing technologies in order to address humanity’s grand challenges. With the support of a broad range of leaders in academia, business and government, Singularity University hopes to stimulate groundbreaking, disruptive thinking and solutions aimed at solving some of the planet’s most pressing challenges. Singularity University is based at the NASA Ames campus in Silicon Valley."
World Leaders interested in Singularity University for Exponential Trends, Innovations | Singularity University
World Leaders interested in Singularity University for Exponential Trends, Innovations | Singularity University: "Singularity University has begun working with a number of European and U.S. government leaders and organizations to help them better understand accelerating technologies, and how to positively address the challenges their countries and populations are facing – today and tomorrow. We look forward to sharing more very soon."
Monday, September 6, 2010
D Hanekom: French South African technology institute in electronics satellite programme
D Hanekom: French South African technology institute in electronics satellite programme: "None of this is easy; a fact recognised many years ago by the famous German/American space pioneer Wernher von Braun, who said, “Our two greatest problems are gravity and paper work. “We can lick gravity, but sometimes the paperwork is overwhelming.” In this case, we’ll do the paperwork, you deal with gravity."
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Gates foundation gives US$280 million to fight TB - SciDev.Net
Gates foundation gives US$280 million to fight TB - SciDev.Net: "Gates foundation gives US$280 million to fight TB
Katherine Nightingale
19 September 2007 | EN
Sputum microscope
Sputum microscopy is currently the most accurate way to diagnose pulmonary TB
World Lung Foundation/Jad Davenport
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation announced a new package of funding yesterday (18 September) to accelerate and build on existing technologies to combat tuberculosis (TB).
The US$280 million grant is the largest single donation for TB research and development by the foundation, which aims to donate US$900 million to research by 2015.
The grants will be used for vaccine development (US$200 million), developing diagnostic tests (US$62 million) and drug discovery (US$18 million)"
Katherine Nightingale
19 September 2007 | EN
Sputum microscope
Sputum microscopy is currently the most accurate way to diagnose pulmonary TB
World Lung Foundation/Jad Davenport
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation announced a new package of funding yesterday (18 September) to accelerate and build on existing technologies to combat tuberculosis (TB).
The US$280 million grant is the largest single donation for TB research and development by the foundation, which aims to donate US$900 million to research by 2015.
The grants will be used for vaccine development (US$200 million), developing diagnostic tests (US$62 million) and drug discovery (US$18 million)"
South African scientists will rise to Gates' challenge - SciDev.Net
South African scientists will rise to Gates' challenge - SciDev.Net: "South African scientists will rise to Gates' challenge
Carol Campbell
22 October 2007 | EN
TB cultures
The fund will encourage innovation in areas such as TB research
WHO/TDR/Crump
South African scientists say they will rise to the challenge set by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to pursue innovative research to resolve the world's worst health crises.
The foundation launched a new arm of its Grand Challenges in Global Health initiative this month (9 October), announcing in Cape Town that they will make US$100 million available for exploratory research under a new programme called Grand Challenges Explorations."
Carol Campbell
22 October 2007 | EN
TB cultures
The fund will encourage innovation in areas such as TB research
WHO/TDR/Crump
South African scientists say they will rise to the challenge set by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to pursue innovative research to resolve the world's worst health crises.
The foundation launched a new arm of its Grand Challenges in Global Health initiative this month (9 October), announcing in Cape Town that they will make US$100 million available for exploratory research under a new programme called Grand Challenges Explorations."
Researchers should be rated, but also rewarded - SciDev.Net
Researchers should be rated, but also rewarded - SciDev.Net: "Securing a rating from the National Research Foundation (NRF) involves a panel of six expert referees, many of them from overseas, evaluating academics' research outputs. The emphasis is on peer review and the focus is unashamedly international. In every other sphere of contemporary life — whether in business, sport or health — South Africa compares itself with international benchmarks. Why should research be any different?"
Friday, August 27, 2010
Chris Freeman Remembrances : About the Department : SPRU - Science and Technology Policy Research : University of Sussex
Chris Freeman Remembrances : About the Department : SPRU - Science and Technology Policy Research : University of Sussex: "Chris Freeman Remembrances
NIS's father, Chris Freeman, passed away on August 16th, 2010."
NIS's father, Chris Freeman, passed away on August 16th, 2010."
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Engaging heart and mind helps worker cognition
Engaging heart and mind helps worker cognition: "Engaging heart and mind helps worker cognition
Steve Vamos
August 24, 2010
The key to innovation is to foster a workplace culture in which leadership is encouraged.
FOR a while now, people of various backgrounds - business, government and academic - have argued that improving Australia's innovation capabilities and performance is critical to sustaining and securing our international competitiveness in a fast-changing, globalised economy."
Steve Vamos
August 24, 2010
The key to innovation is to foster a workplace culture in which leadership is encouraged.
FOR a while now, people of various backgrounds - business, government and academic - have argued that improving Australia's innovation capabilities and performance is critical to sustaining and securing our international competitiveness in a fast-changing, globalised economy."
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Egypt, biggest beneficiary of the Agadir Agreement | Eurojar
Egypt, biggest beneficiary of the Agadir Agreement | Eurojar: "Egypt, best student
Instead of being driven by chauvinism, Rania Nabil prefers to diplomatically shed light on the great achievements accomplished by the four participating countries. And yet, her country is getting the best results. While insisting on the numerous advantages offered for Egypt and its partners, Rania Nabil stresses on the importance of the Egyptian market. Indeed, in addition to all advantages provided by the Agreement, Egypt offers a wide market with 80 million people, which will generate growth and development opportunities in many sectors."
Instead of being driven by chauvinism, Rania Nabil prefers to diplomatically shed light on the great achievements accomplished by the four participating countries. And yet, her country is getting the best results. While insisting on the numerous advantages offered for Egypt and its partners, Rania Nabil stresses on the importance of the Egyptian market. Indeed, in addition to all advantages provided by the Agreement, Egypt offers a wide market with 80 million people, which will generate growth and development opportunities in many sectors."
Sunday, August 15, 2010
History of Sciences in the Islamic World - Light of Islam
History of Sciences in the Islamic World - Light of Islam: "A paper manuscript of the year AD 1009 was found in the Escorial library, and claims to be the oldest hand-written book on paper still in existence. Silk-wove paper, of course, was a Chinese invention, since silk was native to China though rare in Europe; and the Musulman genius lay in seeing the possibility of substituting cotton for silk, and so giving Europe a plentiful supply of a practicable material for the reproduction of books by the monkish scribes.
Philip Hitti writes in his 'History of the Arabs' that the art of road-making was so well developed in Islamic lands that Cordova had miles of paved road lit from the houses on each side at night so that people walked in safety; while in London or Paris anyone who ventured out on a rainy night sank up to his ankles in mud - and did so for seven centuries after Cordova was paved! Oxford men then held that bathing was an idolatrous practice; while Cordovan students revelled in luxurious public hammams!"
Philip Hitti writes in his 'History of the Arabs' that the art of road-making was so well developed in Islamic lands that Cordova had miles of paved road lit from the houses on each side at night so that people walked in safety; while in London or Paris anyone who ventured out on a rainy night sank up to his ankles in mud - and did so for seven centuries after Cordova was paved! Oxford men then held that bathing was an idolatrous practice; while Cordovan students revelled in luxurious public hammams!"
Al-Jazari - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Al-Jazari - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia: "Automata
Al-Jazari built automated moving peacocks driven by hydropower.[29] He also invented the earliest known automatic gates, which were driven by hydropower.[28] He also created automatic doors as part of one of his elaborate water clocks,[1] and designed and constructed a number of other automata, including automatic machines, home appliances, and musical automata powered by water.[30] He also invented water wheels with cams on their axle used to operate automata.[22] According to Encyclop�dia Britannica, the Italian Renaissance inventor Leonardo da Vinci may have been influenced by the classic automata of Al-Jazari.[31]
Mark E. Rosheim summarizes the advances in robotics made by Arab engineers, especially Al-Jazari, as follows:
'Unlike the Greek designs, these Arab examples reveal an interest, not only in dramatic illusion, but in manipulating the environment for human comfort. Thus, the greatest contribution the Arabs made, besides preserving, disseminating and building on the work of the Greeks, was the concept of practical application. This was the key element that was missing in Greek robotic science.'[32]
'The Arabs, on the other hand, displayed an interest in creating human-like machines for practical purposes but lacked, like other preindustrial societies, any real impetus to pursue their robotic science.'[33]"
Al-Jazari built automated moving peacocks driven by hydropower.[29] He also invented the earliest known automatic gates, which were driven by hydropower.[28] He also created automatic doors as part of one of his elaborate water clocks,[1] and designed and constructed a number of other automata, including automatic machines, home appliances, and musical automata powered by water.[30] He also invented water wheels with cams on their axle used to operate automata.[22] According to Encyclop�dia Britannica, the Italian Renaissance inventor Leonardo da Vinci may have been influenced by the classic automata of Al-Jazari.[31]
Mark E. Rosheim summarizes the advances in robotics made by Arab engineers, especially Al-Jazari, as follows:
'Unlike the Greek designs, these Arab examples reveal an interest, not only in dramatic illusion, but in manipulating the environment for human comfort. Thus, the greatest contribution the Arabs made, besides preserving, disseminating and building on the work of the Greeks, was the concept of practical application. This was the key element that was missing in Greek robotic science.'[32]
'The Arabs, on the other hand, displayed an interest in creating human-like machines for practical purposes but lacked, like other preindustrial societies, any real impetus to pursue their robotic science.'[33]"
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Remarks at USAID Conference on Transforming Development through Science, Technology and Innovation
Remarks at USAID Conference on Transforming Development through Science, Technology and Innovation: "Innovation, science, technology must again become fundamental components of how we conduct development work and the only way we can do that is with your help. We want your ideas, we want your guidance, and we want every so often a prod if we’re not producing what you think we’re capable of producing. I’ve said many times that while talent may be distributed universally, opportunity is not. And the reality of the world we live in today is that technology and innovation are the great equalizers and can be used to create opportunity where there is very little of that commodity."
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Saturday, July 31, 2010
United States and European Union Announce Collaboration on the Use of Global Navigation Satellite Systems
United States and European Union Announce Collaboration on the Use of Global Navigation Satellite Systems: "United States and European Union Announce Collaboration on the Use of Global Navigation Satellite Systems
Washington, DC
July 30, 2010
The following is a joint statement on cooperation between the U.S. Global Positioning System (GPS) and Europe’s planned Galileo space-based navigation system issued by representatives of the United States of America and the European Union and its Member States on July 30, 2010.
BEGIN TEXT:
U.S. and EU Announce Improved Performance from Receivers Using both GPS and Galileo Combined Performance
On 30 July 2010, the Government of the United States, the European Union (EU) and its Member States announced the conclusion of an initial phase of consultations affirming user interoperability and enhanced performance of combined GPS and Galileo receivers performance under the auspices of their 2004 Agreement on the Promotion, Provision and Use of Galileo and GPS Satellite-Based Navigation Systems and Related Applications. Consultations under this agreement discuss matters regarding bilateral cooperation in the use of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS)."
Washington, DC
July 30, 2010
The following is a joint statement on cooperation between the U.S. Global Positioning System (GPS) and Europe’s planned Galileo space-based navigation system issued by representatives of the United States of America and the European Union and its Member States on July 30, 2010.
BEGIN TEXT:
U.S. and EU Announce Improved Performance from Receivers Using both GPS and Galileo Combined Performance
On 30 July 2010, the Government of the United States, the European Union (EU) and its Member States announced the conclusion of an initial phase of consultations affirming user interoperability and enhanced performance of combined GPS and Galileo receivers performance under the auspices of their 2004 Agreement on the Promotion, Provision and Use of Galileo and GPS Satellite-Based Navigation Systems and Related Applications. Consultations under this agreement discuss matters regarding bilateral cooperation in the use of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS)."
Towards a science-led climate policy in the Arab region : Nature Middle East
Towards a science-led climate policy in the Arab region : Nature Middle East: "In spite of the rhetoric from Arab politicians, and several formal documents, declarations and strategies produced by the League of Arab States, the Arab–Arab cooperation in these fields has not materialized. The climate-change challenge is so daunting that no single country, whatever its resources, can face it alone. With weak R&D capacity at the national levels, Arab countries have no other alternative but to cooperate. If the Arab countries have failed, for decades, to join hand on most fronts, the climate change problem might be a 'golden opportunity' to start."
Towards a science-led climate policy in the Arab region : Nature Middle East
Towards a science-led climate policy in the Arab region : Nature Middle East: "Towards a science-led climate policy in the Arab region
If Arab scientists want to play a role in climate change policy in the Arab world, then they desperately need to offer better-informed science, argues Ibrahim Abdel Gelil.
Ibrahim Abdel Gelil
Recent studies predict that sea level could rise by more than one metre this century if greenhouse gas emissions continue to escalate.Stefan Rahmstorf
The need to bridge the gap between science and public policy in the Arab region is obvious; the environmental and climate policy is no exception. In a region with a long history of autocratic political systems and underfunding of research and development (R&D), the scientific community is lacking both the independence and the resources it needs to drive the public-policy process.
The role of science in the policy cycle cannot be understated. The relationship between science and environmental policy can be categorized in two ways: science-led policy and policy-led science."
If Arab scientists want to play a role in climate change policy in the Arab world, then they desperately need to offer better-informed science, argues Ibrahim Abdel Gelil.
Ibrahim Abdel Gelil
Recent studies predict that sea level could rise by more than one metre this century if greenhouse gas emissions continue to escalate.Stefan Rahmstorf
The need to bridge the gap between science and public policy in the Arab region is obvious; the environmental and climate policy is no exception. In a region with a long history of autocratic political systems and underfunding of research and development (R&D), the scientific community is lacking both the independence and the resources it needs to drive the public-policy process.
The role of science in the policy cycle cannot be understated. The relationship between science and environmental policy can be categorized in two ways: science-led policy and policy-led science."
The science of food security : Nature Middle East
The science of food security : Nature Middle East: "Farmers in the MENA region are accustomed to raising their crops and livestock in a harsh environment. Today, however, they need scientists to help them adapt their farming systems to the uncertainties generated by climate change, and to develop new productive options that link them securely to markets. Farmers also need science to help develop new crop varieties and management practices to ensure that reliable harvests can be achieved sustainably without exhausting already scarce water resources."
Towards a science-led climate policy in the Arab region : Nature Middle East
Towards a science-led climate policy in the Arab region : Nature Middle East: "Towards a science-led climate policy in the Arab region
If Arab scientists want to play a role in climate change policy in the Arab world, then they desperately need to offer better-informed science, argues Ibrahim Abdel Gelil.
Ibrahim Abdel Gelil
Recent studies predict that sea level could rise by more than one metre this century if greenhouse gas emissions continue to escalate.Stefan Rahmstorf
The need to bridge the gap between science and public policy in the Arab region is obvious; the environmental and climate policy is no exception. In a region with a long history of autocratic political systems and underfunding of research and development (R&D), the scientific community is lacking both the independence and the resources it needs to drive the public-policy process.
The role of science in the policy cycle cannot be understated. The relationship between science and environmental policy can be categorized in two ways: science-led policy and policy-led science."
If Arab scientists want to play a role in climate change policy in the Arab world, then they desperately need to offer better-informed science, argues Ibrahim Abdel Gelil.
Ibrahim Abdel Gelil
Recent studies predict that sea level could rise by more than one metre this century if greenhouse gas emissions continue to escalate.Stefan Rahmstorf
The need to bridge the gap between science and public policy in the Arab region is obvious; the environmental and climate policy is no exception. In a region with a long history of autocratic political systems and underfunding of research and development (R&D), the scientific community is lacking both the independence and the resources it needs to drive the public-policy process.
The role of science in the policy cycle cannot be understated. The relationship between science and environmental policy can be categorized in two ways: science-led policy and policy-led science."
A survey of South-North health biotech collaboration : Article : Nature Biotechnology
A survey of South-North health biotech collaboration : Article : Nature Biotechnology: "In recent years, biotech companies in North America and Europe have increasingly looked to developing countries to find new partners and develop new collaborations. Even though the growth rates of emerging economies like China and India, as well as several sub-Saharan African countries, have been hampered by the current global recession, over the past five years their economies have grown faster than economies anywhere else in the world1. This growth has been reflected by growing indigenous private sectors in health biotech that are also taking active steps to strengthen their innovation capabilities2, 3, 4, thereby allowing collaboration to become a two-way street."
North Africa to develop drought-resistant barley - SciDev.Net
North Africa to develop drought-resistant barley - SciDev.Net: "North Africa to develop drought-resistant barley
Hichem Boum
11 March 2008 | EN
Flickr/zeitspuren
Agricultural researchers in Algeria, Egypt and Tunisia have teamed up to create drought-resistant and salt-tolerant varieties of barley better suited to the North African region.
The project, funded by the Canadian International Development Research Centre and overseen by the New Partnership for Africa's Development North Africa Biosciences Network, will see thirty scientists from five organisations spending the next two years developing the barley varieties."
Hichem Boum
11 March 2008 | EN
Flickr/zeitspuren
Agricultural researchers in Algeria, Egypt and Tunisia have teamed up to create drought-resistant and salt-tolerant varieties of barley better suited to the North African region.
The project, funded by the Canadian International Development Research Centre and overseen by the New Partnership for Africa's Development North Africa Biosciences Network, will see thirty scientists from five organisations spending the next two years developing the barley varieties."
How Muslims transformed Mediterranean countries - SciDev.Net
How Muslims transformed Mediterranean countries - SciDev.Net: "How Muslims transformed Mediterranean countries
D. J. Murphy
4 January 2008
Modern-day Elx, Valencia, Spain. The Elx Palm Grove was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000
Flickr/Marisa Antonaya
D. J. Murphy calls for Islamic cultures to rekindle their rich tradition of innovative science and technology from earlier centuries.
Athar Osama is correct in pointing out that, although science and technology are faring less well in the Middle East today than in the West and Far East, there is a rich history of Islamic excellence in these fields (see Sound institutions could quickly boost Muslim science).
In agriculture from 600 to 1600 CE, Islamic initiatives were responsible for much progress in the dissemination of innovative research and application."
D. J. Murphy
4 January 2008
Modern-day Elx, Valencia, Spain. The Elx Palm Grove was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000
Flickr/Marisa Antonaya
D. J. Murphy calls for Islamic cultures to rekindle their rich tradition of innovative science and technology from earlier centuries.
Athar Osama is correct in pointing out that, although science and technology are faring less well in the Middle East today than in the West and Far East, there is a rich history of Islamic excellence in these fields (see Sound institutions could quickly boost Muslim science).
In agriculture from 600 to 1600 CE, Islamic initiatives were responsible for much progress in the dissemination of innovative research and application."
Morocco invests US$3.2 billion in renewable energy - SciDev.Net
Morocco invests US$3.2 billion in renewable energy - SciDev.Net: "Morocco invests US$3.2 billion in renewable energy
Wagdy Sawahel
30 October 2008
Morocco has announced plans for a new campus providing knowledge-based services to strengthen research and training in clean technology.
The 'knowledge campus' is part of a US$3.2 billion five-year renewable energy investment plan, prepared by the Moroccan National Electricity Office and scheduled to run between 2009 and 2014."
Wagdy Sawahel
30 October 2008
Morocco has announced plans for a new campus providing knowledge-based services to strengthen research and training in clean technology.
The 'knowledge campus' is part of a US$3.2 billion five-year renewable energy investment plan, prepared by the Moroccan National Electricity Office and scheduled to run between 2009 and 2014."
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Seoul Buffoon: Interview: Mr. Ahn Byong-man, Minister of Education, Science & Technology
Seoul Buffoon: Interview: Mr. Ahn Byong-man, Minister of Education, Science & Technology: "Interview: Mr. Ahn Byong-man, Minister of Education, Science & Technology
Thoughts of SeoulBuffoon Monday, July 19, 2010
The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology is striving to secure core basic & source technologies by fostering highly-competitive global talents and building innovative capacity of universities and research institutes with an aim to develop future growth engines.
Interview with Mr. Ahn Byong-man, Minister of Education Science & Technology."
Thoughts of SeoulBuffoon Monday, July 19, 2010
The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology is striving to secure core basic & source technologies by fostering highly-competitive global talents and building innovative capacity of universities and research institutes with an aim to develop future growth engines.
Interview with Mr. Ahn Byong-man, Minister of Education Science & Technology."
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Global Science Diplomacy | The White House
Global Science Diplomacy | The White House: "Global Science Diplomacy
'[M]y administration is ramping up participation in—and our commitment to—international science and technology cooperation across the many areas where it is clearly in our interest to do so.' - President Obama at the National Academy of Sciences, April 27, 2009"
'[M]y administration is ramping up participation in—and our commitment to—international science and technology cooperation across the many areas where it is clearly in our interest to do so.' - President Obama at the National Academy of Sciences, April 27, 2009"
Earth Disasters: A Future Vision of Response and Recovery Tools
Earth Disasters: A Future Vision of Response and Recovery Tools: "Empowered by technology
Williamson said that he envisions a world a decade from now in which everyday citizens have broad access to high resolution space-derived data and information about their communities, not only contributing to their own well being, but also providing local data into regional weather and climate models."
Williamson said that he envisions a world a decade from now in which everyday citizens have broad access to high resolution space-derived data and information about their communities, not only contributing to their own well being, but also providing local data into regional weather and climate models."
Home: Morocco's renewable energy strategy showcased in Italy
Home: Morocco's renewable energy strategy showcased in Italy: "Morocco's renewable energy strategy showcased in Italy
Milan - Morocco's strategy in terms of promoting renewable energy was showcased, on Monday in Milan (Italy), by the head of the Moroccan Agency for solar energy, Mustapha Bakkoury.
Milan - Morocco's strategy in terms of promoting renewable energy was showcased, on Monday in Milan (Italy), by the head of the Moroccan Agency for solar energy, Mustapha Bakkoury.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Astrium : Successful launch for ALSAT-2A
Astrium : Successful launch for ALSAT-2A: "The two-satellite system will enable Algeria to obtain very high quality images for use in a wide variety of applications, including cartography, management of agriculture, forestry, water, mineral and oil resources, crop protection, management of natural disasters and land planning."
Completing the circle: Coupling science & technology outputs to inputs
Completing the circle: Coupling science & technology outputs to inputs: "There’s a fine line between too little and too much feedback, or feedback that’s fast but ill-informed and feedback that’s comprehensive but interminable!"
Tiny Satellites for Big Science
Tiny Satellites for Big Science: "Tiny Satellites for Big Science
July 12, 2010 by Prachi Patel Tiny Satellites for Big Science
Small satellites such as the commonly used 10 cm x 10 cm x 10 cm CubeSat are easier and cheaper to put into low-Earth orbit. Credit: Weber State University
The shrinking technology of cell phones, laptops and cameras are now leading to palm-sized satellites. Easy to build and affordable, these small satellites offer a new way to conduct astrobiology research. They also could change the way we explore the universe."
July 12, 2010 by Prachi Patel Tiny Satellites for Big Science
Small satellites such as the commonly used 10 cm x 10 cm x 10 cm CubeSat are easier and cheaper to put into low-Earth orbit. Credit: Weber State University
The shrinking technology of cell phones, laptops and cameras are now leading to palm-sized satellites. Easy to build and affordable, these small satellites offer a new way to conduct astrobiology research. They also could change the way we explore the universe."
Thursday, July 1, 2010
New York Forum“When you are fearless, you innovate”
New York Forum“When you are fearless, you innovate”: "“When you are fearless, you innovate”
Download (PDF)
With iPads and BlackBerrys in hand, floods of people poured into the Nature of Innovation panel. The discussion, moderated by Forbes’s National Editor Quentin Hardy, attracted many different participants from media outlets to entrepreneurs.
After offering a concrete definition for innovation as “a positive encounter with difference” Hardy posed a series of open-ended questions such as: “ How ready are we for change” and “How do we spot positive difference.”
The panelists highlighted three keys factors to consider when innovating for a company. 1. The current culture of the company. 2. Timing. 3. Understanding the specific problem you are trying to solve. If a company can consider all of these factors before launching a new idea they will likely be more successful."
Download (PDF)
With iPads and BlackBerrys in hand, floods of people poured into the Nature of Innovation panel. The discussion, moderated by Forbes’s National Editor Quentin Hardy, attracted many different participants from media outlets to entrepreneurs.
After offering a concrete definition for innovation as “a positive encounter with difference” Hardy posed a series of open-ended questions such as: “ How ready are we for change” and “How do we spot positive difference.”
The panelists highlighted three keys factors to consider when innovating for a company. 1. The current culture of the company. 2. Timing. 3. Understanding the specific problem you are trying to solve. If a company can consider all of these factors before launching a new idea they will likely be more successful."
Business Insight Malaya | Business
Business Insight Malaya | Business: "RP urged to explore billion-dollar
environment technology market
BY PAUL ICAMINA
The Philippines should take advantage of a growing market in clean environment technologies worth billions of dollars in Southeast Asia.
'We can capitalize on these market opportunities that could reach $62 billion in Asia this year,' said Fortunato T. dela Pe�a, science undersecretary for research and development.
The estimated value does not include the huge Japanese market.
'In Asia, the importance of sustainable solutions through the use of environmentally sound technologies has reached amazingly high levels,' he said. 'We can strive to find export markets for our developed innovative, environmentally sound technologies.'"
environment technology market
BY PAUL ICAMINA
The Philippines should take advantage of a growing market in clean environment technologies worth billions of dollars in Southeast Asia.
'We can capitalize on these market opportunities that could reach $62 billion in Asia this year,' said Fortunato T. dela Pe�a, science undersecretary for research and development.
The estimated value does not include the huge Japanese market.
'In Asia, the importance of sustainable solutions through the use of environmentally sound technologies has reached amazingly high levels,' he said. 'We can strive to find export markets for our developed innovative, environmentally sound technologies.'"
Monday, June 28, 2010
Whitehead’s Prehensions and Onticology � Larval Subjects .
Whitehead’s Prehensions and Onticology � Larval Subjects .: "Second-order cybernetic theories of information are, by contrast, much more Whiteheadian. Here information is not something transmitted between systems, but rather is strictly internal to a particular system. Bateson defines information as the difference that makes a difference. The question immediately arises, “for who or what?” Difference isn’t laying out there in wait, as it were, in the world. Luhmann follows up with the thesis that information is the difference that makes a difference by selecting a system-state (or in the language of OOO, a “substance-state”)."
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Journal Le temps -Conseil des ministres - Stratégie régionale pour la création d’une ferme pour la production biologique dans chaque gouvernorat
Journal Le temps -Conseil des ministres - Stratégie régionale pour la création d’une ferme pour la production biologique dans chaque gouvernorat: "De son coté M.Jelel Ezzine, Directeur Général de la coopération international au ministère tunisien de l'enseignement supérieur et de la recherche scientifique, la coopération euro-méditerranéenne en matière de recherche demeure fragmentaire et souffre d'absence de vision globale partagée par toutes les parties concernées, précisant que les travaux faits jusqu'à présents sont restés confinés dans les universités.
Il a appelé à une approche globale, cohérente et à long terme dans ce domaine, à établir un ordre de priorité avec des choix clairs, estimant que la région peut s'inspirer du programme phare relatif à la région Baltique et des bonnes pratiques européennes en la matière. Il a également recommandé de faciliter le déplacement des étudiants et des chercheurs entre les deux rives de la Méditerranée, de coordonner les actions des institutions créées jusqu'ici et de renforcer la propriété intellectuelle."
Il a appelé à une approche globale, cohérente et à long terme dans ce domaine, à établir un ordre de priorité avec des choix clairs, estimant que la région peut s'inspirer du programme phare relatif à la région Baltique et des bonnes pratiques européennes en la matière. Il a également recommandé de faciliter le déplacement des étudiants et des chercheurs entre les deux rives de la Méditerranée, de coordonner les actions des institutions créées jusqu'ici et de renforcer la propriété intellectuelle."
Metrics: A profusion of measures : Nature News
Metrics: A profusion of measures : Nature News: "Metrics: A profusion of measures
Scientific performance indicators are proliferating — leading researchers to ask afresh what they are measuring and why. Richard Van Noorden surveys the rapidly evolving ecosystem."
Scientific performance indicators are proliferating — leading researchers to ask afresh what they are measuring and why. Richard Van Noorden surveys the rapidly evolving ecosystem."
Innovation nation: Why Australia needs an innovation system | Business21C
Innovation nation: Why Australia needs an innovation system | Business21C: "In particular, Terry Cutler and his team highlighted the role of people and organisations, and of strengthening innovation management inside organisations, including leadership and culture. The challenge now, with most innovation these days being non-R&D, is to promote new business models in niche markets and the successful adoption and diffusion of high performance work systems.
Why? Because innovation isn’t just about promoting science and technology. And nor is innovation policy just about better public research. It’s also about better organisations, organisations that can make use of research, something increasingly recognised as the challenge of ‘innovation absorption’. We need not only to be technology makers or technology takers, but also to be systems integrators, bringing together people and technologies in new ways."
Why? Because innovation isn’t just about promoting science and technology. And nor is innovation policy just about better public research. It’s also about better organisations, organisations that can make use of research, something increasingly recognised as the challenge of ‘innovation absorption’. We need not only to be technology makers or technology takers, but also to be systems integrators, bringing together people and technologies in new ways."
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