SciDev.Net Weekly Update (5 - 11 November 2012)

Sea-floor mining: the debate deepens Deep-sea mining is a go, says geologist Chris Yeats, but a review questions the science behind an environmental impact assessment for the first such project. News Caribbean sardine collapse linked to climate change  Changes in wind patterns and water circulation, caused by climate change, are depleting sardine numbers in the south Caribbean, finds a study.  EN | ES  Review claims 'poor science' in deep-sea mining report  The environmental threats posed by the world's first deep-sea mining project may have been poorly assessed, says a campaign group review.  EN  Expat Arab scientists demand changes at home  Arab expats have asked their home countries to implement science-friendly policies that will let them help native S&T while working abroad.  EN  Malaria vaccine trial results 'frustrating'  An African trial of a promising malaria vaccine has produced disappointing results in infants aged 6-12 weeks.  EN  Asian farmers failing to use pest-resistant rice  Poor communications, an unregulated market, and weak farmers-researchers links are damaging uptake of pest-resistant rice, says a top scientist.  EN | 中文  Climate change could hit crops far worse than thought  A synthesis of climate change impact studies for key crops in Africa and South Asia warns of significant yield reductions and knowledge gaps.  EN Other News Cheap urine test for lymphatic filariasis  EN  Malaysian and US institutes collaborate to fight cancer  EN  South Pacific coconut gene bank under threat  EN  Seminar highlights distrust in tech transfer pledges  EN  Sail-inspired turbine promises cheaper wind energy  EN  Research institute to boost South Africa's mining sector  EN  Beans and maize ‘at high risk’ from climate change  ES  Foresight studies: a current challenge for Latin America  ES More NEWS  Opinions Deep sea mining: exploration is inevitable  Despite concern over adverse impacts, deep marine mineral exploration is set to become a global industry, says geologist Chris Yeats.  EN | 中文  Africa Analysis: Donors should focus on national R&D funds  Aid agencies and international research funders have a role in supporting Africa's nascent national science funds, writes Linda Nordling.  EN More OPINIONS  Features A match made in cyberspace: how networks nurture science  With the growth of online science networks, geography and economics no longer dictate how research is undertaken or published, finds Smriti Mallapaty.  EN | ES  More FEATURES  Africa Analysis: National grants for national priorities There is a growing interest in national science funds in Africa, but they'll work only if they're reliable — and that's where international funders could help, writesLinda Nordling.