News
- Chemistry
Brilliant blue for the spine
A study in rats suggests the blue dye similar to that found in popsicles and sports drinks may prevent cell death after spinal cord injury.
- Life
Allergy meds slim down obese mice
Animal study shows over-the-counter medications lower weight and treat type 2 diabetes. The study is one of four to link type 2 diabetes with the immune system.
- Chemistry
CO2 sponge
Macromolecule that was accidentally discovered seems to trap carbon dioxide from the air.
By Sid Perkins - Space
Rotation may solve cosmic mystery
Astronomers propose a new explanation for the formation of the darkest galaxies in the universe.
By Ron Cowen - Earth
Salty water power
A study reports a new, cheaper way to harvest energy from salt water and fresh water.
- Paleontology
Fossil shows first all-American honeybee
Nevada find contradicts long-held view of Europe and Asia as the native land of all honeybees.
By Susan Milius - Animals
Toucan’s bill gives big chill
Bird’s supersized bill can switch personal air conditioning on and off, new research suggests.
By Susan Milius - Humans
Traffic hydrocarbons linked to lower IQs in kids
Prenatal exposures to common air pollutants correlate with a drop in intelligence scores.
By Janet Raloff - Life
Beetle masters optics
Researchers may gain inspiration from the shell of Chrysina gloriosa, which twists light in a particular way.
- Health & Medicine
Cheap shots — typhoid vaccine shows broad coverage
Vaccine protects against typhoid across age groups and is especially effective in young children.
By Nathan Seppa - Space
Evidence mounts for liquid interior of a Saturn moon
Cassini researchers find additional support in the moon's plumes.
By Ron Cowen - Earth
Lopsided lights
Simultaneous snapshots reveal that northern and southern auroras aren’t always alike.
By Sid Perkins