1959 09 19 Nature - Vol 184 No 4690 - Cocconi and Morrison

Magazine Overview

Title: NATURE
Issue: Vol. 184, No. 4690
Date: September 19, 1959
Publisher: Nature Publishing Group
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of Nature presents groundbreaking research and discussions across various scientific fields, with a particular focus on the potential for interstellar communication and the biological effects of radiation.

Searching for Interstellar Communications

This seminal article by Giuseppe Cocconi and Philip Morrison, affiliated with Cornell University, proposes a rational approach to searching for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI). They argue that while theories on planet formation and the origin of life are lacking, the existence of advanced societies on planets around sun-like stars is plausible. Such societies might develop scientific capabilities far exceeding our own and could establish communication channels.

The authors suggest that electromagnetic waves are the most practical means for interstellar communication due to the properties of galactic plasma. They propose focusing the search on the radio frequency band, specifically around 1,420 Mc./s. (21 cm.), the emission line of neutral hydrogen. This frequency is considered a unique, objective standard that any advanced civilization would likely know and use. The paper discusses the challenges of competing with natural radio backgrounds from stars and the galaxy, and estimates the power requirements for a source to transmit a detectable signal.

They posit that a signal would likely be pulse-modulated and might contain sequences of prime numbers or simple arithmetic sums for unambiguous identification as artificial. The search should prioritize nearby stars with similar luminosity and lifetime to our Sun, particularly those in directions away from the galactic plane to minimize background noise. The authors acknowledge that their speculations might seem like science fiction but assert that the presence of interstellar signals is consistent with current knowledge and that a discriminating search is warranted, as the chance of success is zero if no search is conducted.

Metabolic Changes Induced in Mammalian Erythrocytes by Whole-Body X-Irradiation

Professors D. A. Rappoport and B. W. Sewell from Baylor University College of Medicine present research on the effects of X-ray irradiation on mammalian erythrocytes. They highlight the need for reliable indicators of radiation-induced tissue damage, especially given the increased exposure to man-made radiation.

The ideal indicator should show measurable changes over extended periods following irradiation and be obtainable without harming the subject. Erythrocytes are proposed as a suitable tissue component because they have a limited lifespan (110-120 days in humans, 49-55 days in rats) and, being enucleated, cannot resynthesize proteins. This means any radiation damage to enzyme-proteins, such as denaturation or peptide bond rupture, should be detectable through changes in enzymic reactions.

The authors note that while radiation is assumed to affect enzymes in all cells, enzymic changes in erythrocytes have not been widely observed. This is attributed to insufficient testing of erythrocyte enzymes after radiation. With the recent elucidation of key enzymes involved in glycolysis, the hexosemonophosphate shunt, and nucleoside metabolism, re-examination of radiation effects on these systems is deemed necessary.

The paper also touches upon the importance of nucleoside metabolism, particularly in the context of preserving blood. The addition of inosine or adenosine has been found to improve erythrocyte integrity and survival during storage and transfusion, attributed to the resynthesis of essential metabolites.

The 'Apidictor': A Device for Bee Colony Monitoring

An article discusses the 'Apidictor,' a device developed to monitor bee colonies. Initially conceived as a swarm predictor, it offers significant economic advantages by allowing beekeepers to anticipate and manage swarming. The device also provides a range of other uses, including removing uncertainty in queen introduction and acceptance, detecting abnormalities like queen failure (leading to drone breeding), and assessing colony health even during harsh winter conditions.

The development of the 'Apidictor' involved overcoming challenges such as the adverse effects of heat and humidity on crystal microphones. A successful and economical scheme utilizes a hole in the back of the brood-box with an internal screen and a microphone plugged into a rubber bung. Headphones are used for detection, with potential for future visual indicators and automatic alarm systems for large apiaries.

The article acknowledges the co-operation of individuals like Mr. E. F. Birch and Mr. C. B. Dennis, as well as technical assistance from Wayne Kerr Laboratories.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a forward-looking and speculative stance, particularly evident in the SETI article, which boldly proposes a scientific search for extraterrestrial intelligence based on rational arguments and current scientific understanding. The journal also demonstrates a commitment to reporting on fundamental biological research, such as the effects of radiation on cellular components, and practical applications in fields like beekeeping. The overall tone suggests an emphasis on scientific inquiry, exploration of the unknown, and the pursuit of knowledge that could have profound implications for humanity.