Attack of the Clones!
Human cloning is here... or is it? New doubt has recently been cast on the validity of the claims recently made by
Advanced Cell Technology, a private Massachussetts institution, that they have succeeded in the early stages of cloning the first few cells in the development of a human embryo. A senior editor at the online journal that published ACT's research has announced his resignation, citing his serious concerns regarding the quantity and quality of the data provided. While this particular issue is yet to be resolved, it is certain that research will now begin apace at similar institutions around the world. Politically and socially, it would seem lines are being drawn. In light of current world events, it's understandable that what can largely be termed "The Cloning Issue" is not receiving due coverage in the media. We'll do our best to keep you updated on events as they unfold, from research advancements, legislation, and activism. Stay tuned and thanks for listening.
current science news posted by ted at 12/04/2001 01:40:00 PM
We do make
new synaptic connections!!! Neuroscientists at the University of California, San Diego have recorded living
hippocampal neurons making new temporary and permanent connections in response to stimulation. They even put
videos on the internet. This phenomenon has been assumed to occur by scientists for years, but until recently the technology was not available. Their methods include creating fluorescent versions of actin within the living cells that can be visualized by recording microscopes, and growing neurons on photoconductive silicon chips that allow the delivery of a short, high frequency electrical burst to a specific location on the neuron. It is thought that the plastic properties evidenced in this study could underly the formation of
short-term and long-term memories.
Something that we didn't discuss... the world's smallest vertebrate has been discovered on Isla Beata in the Carribean off of the Dominican Republic. Named the
Jaragua lizard, it is only 16mm from nose to tail and can easily fit on a dime. It is the smallest vertebrate to be able to reproduce on dry land.
current science news posted by Kirsten at 12/04/2001 12:02:00 PM
Need cyber idol? On today's show we talked about the growing popularity of cyber idols.
Yuki Terai is currently one of the more popular idols out there. Not quite on the level of William Gibson's
Idoru with the lack of AI and emotional capacity but still...
current science news posted by Greg at 12/04/2001 09:53:00 AM
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