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AstronomyAll-sky survey makes Internet debut
An atlas of some 5 million images from the Two Micron All-Sky Survey is now available online.
By Ron Cowen -
EarthMapping watersheds invites comparisons
Computerized maps of environmental features for 154 of the largest river watersheds will soon be available to the public, free of charge.
By Janet Raloff -
Health & MedicineMicrobicide thwarts AIDS virus in monkey test
A microbicidal gel applied vaginally prevents some transmission of the AIDS virus in monkeys.
By Nathan Seppa -
AnthropologyThe 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 -
19310
Like most environmental journalism, the article describes the problem well but not the solution. It would be useful if information about native landscaping were included in this article as an alternative to non-native species. Frank HasslerChampaign, Ill. Your interesting piece on invasive plants touched upon, but otherwise ignored, mycoherbicides for control of noxious weeds. Mycoherbicides, […]
By Science News -
EcosystemsCultivating Weeds
Some formerly mild-mannered plants turn into horticultural bullies when planted far outside their native range.
By Janet Raloff -
19309
This article on the Ebola virus’ deadly glycoprotein was frightening enough, but even more terrifying to me was the fact that the researchers had genetically engineered a cold virus, one of the most easily transmitted and successful viruses on the planet, to carry the Ebola glycoprotein. I hope that modified virus never escapes the laboratory, […]
By Science News -
HumansFrom the April 8, 1933, issue
MT. WASHINGTON COLDER THAN THE ANTARCTIC Rigor of winter at the summit of Mt. Washington is graphically pictured on the cover of this week’s Science News Letter. As early as October 15 of last year, when this picture was taken by Harold Orne of Melrose Highlands, Mass., ice and snow has wrought curious shapes upon […]
By Science News -
Micro Burgers ‘n Fries
For an intimate peek at an all-American meal, this Web page from Florida State University’s National High Magnetic Field Laboratory offers microscopic views of the basic ingredients that go into a serving of burgers and fries. See colorful slices of a wheat kernel, cooked meat, onion tissue, cheese proteins, starch granules, and lettuce cells. Go […]
By Science News -
AstronomyCosmic Blowout: Black holes spew as much as they consume
Supermassive black holes at the cores of galaxies can blow out as much material as they swallow, creating high-speed winds that may seed the universe with oxygen, carbon, iron, and other elements essential for life.
By Ron Cowen -
EarthWrong Number: Plastic ingredient spurs chromosomal defects
The primary chemical in some plastics causes female mice to produce eggs with abnormal numbers of chromosomes.
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Materials ScienceA New Cool: Prototype chills fast and electrifies, too
Researchers have incorporated an efficient thermoelectric material into a prototype device that can cool or produce electricity.