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Science News for June 5, 2003


Odyssey thermal data reveals a changing Mars

Researchers have discovered kilometer-wide stretches of bare bedrock, exposing strong environmental forces that scour the surface. The data also reveals common accumulations of loose rock on martian hillsides, indicating recent weathering processes. These findings suggest a dynamic Mars with active geological features.

SourceArizona State University·JournalScience·DateJun 5, 2003

The more things change, the more marriages stay the same

Despite minimal changes in marital happiness and divorce rates, researchers found a decline in shared activities among couples. Equalitarian marriages have a positive impact on marital quality, while cohabitation before marriage leads to lower marital satisfaction.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Marriage and Family·DateJun 5, 2003

Rutgers research takes aim at world hunger

The team has produced a complete and accurate rice genome sequence, which will help improve crop yields and feed the world's population. The achievement is made possible by Rutgers' participation in Reinvest in Rutgers program, funded by the state of New Jersey.

SourceRutgers University·JournalScience·DateJun 5, 2003

Sepsis could be underestimated in new-born babies

Early-onset group B streptococcal (EOGBS) infection affects one in 1000 newborns, but diagnostic tests often yield false-negative results. A new study suggests that active surveillance and alternative diagnostic methods could improve accurate diagnosis and prevention of this potentially deadly disease.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 5, 2003

Global garden grows greener

A comprehensive NASA study found that climatic changes have led to increased plant growth globally over the last two decades. The research, published in Science magazine, attributes the increases primarily to climate change, with lesser contributions from carbon dioxide fertilization and forest regrowth.

Study suggests cause for restless leg syndrome

Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine discovered a possible explanation for restless leg syndrome, finding that brain cells lacking enough iron may cause misfiring of neural signals. This discovery establishes RLS as a sensory motor disorder rather than a psychological one, offering hope for future treatments.