Uncategorized

  1. 19173

    Erik Trinkaus argues that fossil evidence shows signs of considerable interbreeding of Neandertals and modern humans. However, I don’t believe that proves we could have Neandertal ancestors. Couldn’t crossbreeding result in sterile offspring, such as is seen in mules? Anne Wittke Flagstaff, Ariz. Sure. Trinkaus argues, however, that the presence of Neandertal traits on the […]

    By
  2. Anthropology

    Gene test probes Neandertal origins

    A new DNA study supports the theory that Neandertals didn't contribute to the evolution of modern humans.

    By
  3. Health & Medicine

    DNA vaccine for measles shows promise

    A measles vaccine consisting of just a couple of DNA strands proves effective in monkeys, possibly presenting an alternative or complementary vaccine for the standard immunization now used worldwide.

    By
  4. 19162

    I think that your readers should be aware that this article on beach erosion is based upon a report by the Heinz Center for Science that’s being widely disputed. Susan Halsey’s opinion that nothing can be done to stop these losses is in direct conflict with a National Research Council report, “Beach Nourishment and Protection,” […]

    By
  5. Earth

    Enjoy the beach. . .while it’s still there

    Up to a quarter of the structures within 500 feet of America's coastlines may be lost to erosion in the next 60 years, according to a report issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency last week.

    By
  6. Tech

    Magnifier May Crack Crimes, Crashes

    Gumshoes equipped with a novel device for magnifying magnetic fields may spy clues on damaged, erased, or deliberately corrupted audio tapes and other magnetic media.

    By
  7. Humans

    From the February 4, 1933, issue

    SUPERLATIVE SPLENDOR REVEALED BY EXCAVATIONS IN PERSIA Eastern magnificence that surrounded Persian emperors 2,500 years ago is revealed by excavations at Persepolis. Palaces of the kings are being brought to light there by Dr. Ernest Herzfeld excavating for the Oriental Institute of the University of Chicago. The sculptured walls arouse comparisons with glories of one […]

    By
  8. Physics

    Powers of Ten

    Florida State University’s “Molecular Expressions” Web site offers a fascinating sequence of images, each one 10 times bigger or smaller in scale than the one preceding or following it. The journey ranges from a view of the universe 10 million light years away from the Milky Way to an impressionistic glimpse of a diminutive sea […]

    By
  9. Physics

    Quantum computers to keep an eye on

    A primitive ion-based computer exploiting the weirdness of quantum mechanics has taken an important step forward in problem solving.

    By
  10. Humans

    Talent Found: Top science students chosen in 62nd annual competition

    Forty wunderkinder, named as finalists in the annual Intel Science Talent Search, will collect $530,000 in scholarships for original research in science, mathematics, and engineering.

    By
  11. Earth

    Putting Whales to Work: Cetaceans provide cheap labor in the icy deep

    Whales equipped with environmental sensors discover warm water beneath Arctic ice.

    By
  12. Heat-Seeking Missiles: Sperm may follow rising temperature to egg

    In a process called thermotaxis, sperm cells may use a temperature gradient in the fallopian tubes to find their way to an unfertilized egg.

    By