SciDev Net week April 28 2013

Science & Development Network  News, views and information about science, technology and the developing world

Articles published on the SciDev.Net website over the last week: 22 - 28 April 2013

How to support online science journalism in Africa Linda Nordling says a culture of plagiarism undermines the quality of science reporting, whileMarc Mcilhone makes the case for open sharing and novel ways to make science news pay. News Chemical weapons convention fails to address key issues  A conference fails to address the use of chemicals to disable civilians, as indications of chemical weapons' use in Syria emerge.  EN  Forest conservation could reduce malaria transmission  The biodiversity of tropical forests helps to curb malaria transmission and should be considered in plans to eradicate the disease, say researchers.  EN | ES  Men blamed for hindering female Arab scientists  Female researchers in Arab nations are being hampered by a lack of support from research bodies and male scientists, a conference has heard.  EN  Schistosomiasis control a route to cutting HIV in Africa  Reducing schistosomiasis infections is a cost-effective way of also cutting HIV transmission in Sub-Saharan Africa, say researchers.  EN  Nanowire device may help tackle malaria drug resistance  A diagnostic device no bigger than a smartphone harnesses nanotechnology to detect the specific type of malaria a patient is infected with.  EN  Mobile and web apps tackle sanitation challenges  A game and two other mobile apps that help citizens tackle local sanitation problems have won a World Bank-funded technology competition.  EN  Drug and a syphilis test offer hope of yaws eradication  A diagnostic test targeting syphilis and an oral antibiotic could be used together to help eradicate yaws disease, a WHO meeting was told.  EN  WCSJ2013 urged to find new funding model for critical journalism  A plan is needed to protect critical science journalism as media incomes fall, heard a meeting ahead of the World Conference of Science Journalists.  EN Other News Leading malaria vaccine trial deemed disappointing  EN  UNESCO commits to support open access in Latin America  ES  Women are 'key drivers' in climate change adaptation  EN | ES More NEWS  Opinions Open access is the future for Africa's science media  Brains Network editor Marc Mcilhone backs open sharing in the second article on how to support online science journalism in Africa.  EN  Focus on Gender: Give women a say in dryland protection  Projects to conserve dryland areas must ensure that women have secure access to and control over this land, says Henrietta Miers.  EN  A culture of plagiarism is harming Africa's journalists  EN More OPINIONS  Features Middle East synchrotron seeks peace through cooperation  A research centre in Jordan aims to boost science and foster peace through international collaboration, reportsRehab Abd Almohsen.  EN  More FEATURES  Jordan-based research project has funding shortfall An initiative designed to boost science and collaboration in the Middle East still needs to find US$35 million, finds Rehab Abd Almohsen.