UCSD biologists have discovered a gene that gives plants the ability to detoxify heavy metals that are hazardous to human health and the environment. The researchers succeeded in uncovering this genetic resource, which represents a dramatic step forward for environmental clean up efforts. NASA has enlisted a UCSD philosopher in its search for the next generation of planetary rovers. Ames Research Center on the successor to Sojourner, the rover that sent back close-up photos of Mars in 1997. A specialist in the new field of data mining, the philosopher s skills help scientists from different disciplines integrate their problem-solving approaches.
Martian meteorite shows no signs of life on the red planet.
The Martian meteorite previously believed to show signs of life on Mars was found by UCSD researchers to be non-biologic in origin. After an extensive examination of the meteorite s chemical makeup, the scientists reported that carbonates laced through the rock are the product of reactions with carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, rather than water on the Mars surface. Water, the genesis for biologic life, would have supported the case for Martian life. Atmospheric carbon dioxide, on the other hand, strongly suggests a non-biologic origin. Violent images on TV and in movies lead to more violence.