Annual Report-Science

Science is a leading multidisciplinary, peer-reviewed journal that stands as one of the world’s most prestigious scientific publications. It has the highest paid circulation among weekly interdisciplinary scientific journals globally and enjoys widespread readership in libraries, schools, and research institutions. Founded by Thomas Edison in 1880, Science has served as the official journal of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) since 1900.

In 2000, Donald Kennedy became the editor-in-chief of Science, succeeding Floyd Bloom, who chaired the Department of Neuropharmacology at the Scripps Research Institute and chose not to serve a second term. Kennedy, who is president emeritus of Stanford University and a former U.S. Food and Drug Administration commissioner, brings a wealth of experience in science, government, and education to the role.

RESEARCH AND NEWS

In 2000, Science highlighted significant research advancements across various scientific disciplines. These included a groundbreaking paper on the Drosophila genome, evidence of ancient Martian lakes, the cloning of a piglet, a genetically modified monkey, and new insights into the first human ancestors to leave Africa.

Other notable reports included a June 2 study showing that adult neural stem cells from mice could differentiate into multiple cell types. When these stem cells were grown with embryonic cells and injected into early-stage chick and mouse embryos, they developed into muscle, liver, heart, and intestine cells, offering a potential new method for creating replacement tissues. Later, on November 24, Science’s nanotechnology issue featured discoveries such as “dancing” tin crystals, showcasing chemical locomotion on a microscopic scale. Another important study published on April 28 detailed how gene therapy successfully freed two babies with SCID X1 (severe combined immunodeficiency) from sterile, “bubble-like” environments.

In a major international effort, researchers sequenced the genome of the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, unveiling a vast repository of genetic data in the March 24 issue and paving the way for the publication of the human genome. Additionally, on December 8, researchers analyzing Mars Orbiter Camera data suggested that layered geological outcrops on Mars might consist of sedimentary rock deposited by water.

Science news features in 2000 included a special section on the AIDS epidemic in Africa. This in-depth report by veteran AIDS journalist Jon Cohen and photographer Malcolm Linton highlighted the devastating impact of the disease in sub-Saharan Africa. Other noteworthy news included exclusive interviews with Chinese President Jiang Zemin and U.S. President Bill Clinton.

SCIENCE ON THE WEB

Signal Transduction Knowledge Environment

Launched in 1999, this electronic publication leverages new information technologies to provide scholars with crucial data and enhance their ability to convert that information into practical knowledge and testable theories. Updated weekly, the STKE features original perspectives on signal transduction from over 50 leading scientists and summaries of cutting-edge journal articles. The site’s Virtual Journal offers access to more than 12,750 research articles from 45 publications across 18 publishers, with around 250 new articles added weekly. In 2000, Science introduced new features to improve STKE, including white pages, job listings, and moderated forums. Over 30,000 individuals have registered to use the site, which averages 5,000 visitors per week.

Science of Aging Knowledge Environment

Set to launch in 2001, this new website, SAGE, is the second in a series of initiatives to use the internet to gather and organize information from rapidly evolving and diverse fields. The site will support researchers and clinicians by compiling extensive information across various disciplines. It will spotlight the work of leading scientists worldwide who are focused on aging issues, with George Martin of the University of Washington serving as editor-in-chief.

Science’s Next Wave

In 2000, Science’s weekly online magazine for those pursuing careers in science expanded its global reach. The first full year of the German homepage was a success, and plans were made to launch a Singapore web portal. The site, which has a five-year archive of practical career information, also introduced new services such as a Postdoc Network section, offering guidance to postdocs across the country. The GrantDoctor, a biweekly advice column on grant-related issues, remained popular. Revenue for Science’s Next Wave continued to grow, driven by strong institutional renewals and new corporate sponsors.

GrantsNet, the sister site to Science’s Next Wave, underwent a major redesign, adding powerful new features and a new database focused on undergraduate research opportunities.