Feature

  1. Anthropology

    The Stone Masters

    Investigations of modern-day expert and novice craftsmen of stone tools and decorative stone beads offer insights into the making of stone implements thousands and perhaps even millions of years ago.

    By Bruce Bower
  2. Ecosystems

    Cultivating Weeds

    Some formerly mild-mannered plants turn into horticultural bullies when planted far outside their native range.

    By Janet Raloff
  3. Health & Medicine

    The Vaccinia Dilemma

    To inform the current debate on who should be vaccinated for smallpox given the possibility of—or in the event of—a bioterrorism attack, researchers are using mathematical models and data from vaccination campaigns and past smallpox outbreaks.

    By Ben Harder
  4. Tech

    Building a Better Shuttle

    Researchers are working on both more heat-tolerant materials and totally new designs for vehicles that might ultimately replace the space shuttle.