Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for January 26, 2004


New study shows Neanderthals were not our ancestors

A recent study using computer imaging techniques reveals that Neanderthals exhibit distinct differences in skeletal morphology compared to modern humans. The research, led by NYU paleoanthropologist Katerina Harvati, suggests that Neanderthals are a separate species within the genus Homo.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 26, 2004

Transgenic animals produced using cultured sperm

Researchers have successfully produced transgenic zebrafish using cultured sperm cells grown in laboratory conditions, enabling the study of human development and disease. The new technique also holds promise for pre-fertilization strategies in human gene therapy, potentially leading to preventive treatment for certain genetic disorders.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 26, 2004

Signal chemical primes plants for pest attack

Researchers discover green leafy volatiles (GLV) prime corn plant defenses to respond more strongly against subsequent herbivorous insect attacks. The primed plants produce chemical signals that attract natural parasites and predators, increasing crop protection.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 26, 2004

Statistics research offers new forecast of El Niño

A statistical model created at Ohio State University predicts sea surface temperatures in the tropical Pacific Ocean, providing a way to quantify the uncertainty surrounding El Niño. The model can forecast El Niño six months in advance, giving farmers and commercial fishermen time to plan for the coming season.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Climate·DateJan 26, 2004

Few hospitalized patients at low risk for pain

A study found that hospitalized patients experience significant pain levels, with 59% reporting pain, and that certain characteristics like age, sex, and diagnosis can identify high-risk patients. In contrast, no clear predictors were identified for low-risk patients, suggesting that all hospitalized patients may be at high risk for pain.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateJan 26, 2004

Gene predisposes infants to neurologic injury after heart surgery

Researchers found that children carrying the epsilon2 version of the apolipoprotein E gene had worse neurodevelopmental outcomes at age one compared to those without the gene. The study suggests a potential genetic link between the APOE ε2 gene variant and increased risk of neurologic injury in infants after heart surgery.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJournal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery·DateJan 26, 2004

Puzzling height of polar clouds revealed

Researchers found that polar mesospheric clouds at the South Pole are on average 2 miles higher than those in the North, attributed to increased solar radiation. The clouds have brightened by 15% over the last twenty years, indicating a cooling of the mesosphere and potentially linked to long-term global climate change.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJan 26, 2004