News
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Materials ScienceNanostructures mimic Inuit stone sculptures
Chemists have created nanoscale versions Inuit rock sculptures, an advance that could facilitate the development of next-generation sensors and electronic devices.
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Health & MedicineHepatitis B link to cancer is clarified
A kind of hepatitis B called genotype C is more likely to lead to liver cancer than are other genotypes of the hepatitis virus.
By Nathan Seppa -
TechSilicon chips land a lasting laser
The first microchip-size silicon lasers promise to boost the maximum speeds of ordinary computers and electronic gadgets.
By Peter Weiss -
TechRemembering, on the cheap
A new type of cheap plastic memory bit that stays set even when electrical power is off could facilitate the spread of flexible, radio-equipped tags as price tags, identity labels, and surveillance sensors.
By Peter Weiss -
Health & MedicineTungsten-alloy shrapnel might cause cancer
Wounds caused by shrapnel comprising tungsten alloyed with nickel and cobalt cause cancer in rats, raising questions about the wisdom of using tungsten in munitions.
By Nathan Seppa -
AnimalsPicky-eater termites choose good vibes
Good vibrations may have a lot to do with which pieces of wood a termite attacks.
By Susan Milius -
MathNew largest prime discovered
Computers have discovered a new largest prime number with a whopping 7,816,230 digits.
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AstronomyPuzzling radio blasts
Astronomers are stumped by powerful radio waves emanating from the center of our galaxy.
By Ron Cowen -
Bacterial Nanny: Beewolf grows microbe for protecting young
A European wasp leaves a smear of bacteria near each of her eggs as protection against the perils of youth.
By Susan Milius -
Materials ScienceSlick Surfaces: Pressure builds to make better motor oils
Motor oil's protection against the wear and tear of steel engine parts takes effect only at high pressures.
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Health & MedicineAnoint Them with Oil: Cheap-and-easy treatment cuts infection rates in premature infants
Massaging premature babies with sunflower-seed oil can cut bloodborne infection rates.
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AstronomyWeighing In on a Star: A stellar size limit
A new study suggests that no star in our galaxy can weigh more than 150 times the mass of the sun.
By Ron Cowen