Humans
We summarize the week's scientific breakthroughs every Thursday.
- Health & Medicine
Mexican virologist Susana López Charretón uncovered rotaviruses’ secrets
Knowledge of the complex dance between virus and host cell has led to the development of life-saving vaccines.
- Health & Medicine
What we still don’t know about Wegovy’s effect on strokes and heart attacks
A clinical trial suggests that semaglutide, a drug used to treat obesity and diabetes, may protect cardiovascular health in a broad group of people.
- Health & Medicine
What to know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people
Data on the FDA-approved Pfizer vaccine are promising. Questions about safety and how it might be used in conjunction with another new RSV shot remain.
- Psychology
An apology to Indigenous communities sparks a mental health rethink
The leading U.S. psychological association pledged to embrace Indigenous approaches to healing, which requires rethinking how to address mental health.
- Genetics
The Y chromosome’s genetic puzzle is finally complete
New analyses of the human Y chromosome reveal millions of new bases and different locations for the same gene in different people.
- Archaeology
Pre-Inca people stomped salutes to their thunder god on a special dance floor
Excavation of a drumlike platform in the Andes turned up a structure seemingly designed to absorb shocks and emit resonant sounds when stomped upon.
- Health & Medicine
Health risks can persist at least 2 years after COVID-19, new data suggest
U.S. veterans who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020 remain at higher risk for many long COVID conditions, from heart disease to gastrointestinal issues.
- Health & Medicine
What should we expect from the coronavirus this fall?
The virus may be reaching a phase of baseline circulation, says epidemiologist Aubree Gordon. But it’s unclear what will happen in the next few months.
- Genetics
A new look at Ötzi the Iceman’s DNA reveals new ancestry and other surprises
Ötzi had genetic variants for male-pattern baldness and dark skin, and he also had an unusual amount of early farmer ancestry, a new DNA analysis finds.
- Physics
How to run a marathon in under two hours
Running between other people reduces air resistance. A new study identifies optimal positioning of such drafting formations. Watch out, marathon records.
- Neuroscience
Neuroscientists decoded a Pink Floyd song using people’s brain activity
The technique could be used to improve devices that allow communication from people unable to speak.
- Health & Medicine
Why are more people under 50 getting colorectal cancer? Scientists have some clues
Science News spoke with doctors about their research into early-onset colorectal cancer. Here’s what they’re learning and what questions remain.
