Humans
- Astronomy
Too much information in the Odyssey
A controversial interpretation of passages from the Odyssey suggests that Homer knew much more about planetary motions than historians thought possible.
- Life
Losing sleep
A genetic source of mental retardation and autism may also disrupt sleep patterns.
- Health & Medicine
Vessel rescue
A blood pressure medication limits damage to the aorta in people with Marfan syndrome, possibly signaling a new therapy for the condition.
By Nathan Seppa - Agriculture
Bee-Loved Plantings
Zipcode-organized guidelines tell gardeners, farmers and others how to design a landscape that will not only entice pollinators but also keep these horticultural helpers happy.
By Janet Raloff - Health & Medicine
Ch-ch-ch-changes
Epigenetic shifts continue throughout a person’s lifetime, and the overall pattern of these shifts appears similar within families.
- Ecosystems
Human ‘Signature’ in Fish Losses
Why the whales-ate-my-fish argument doesn't hold water.
By Janet Raloff - Health & Medicine
Heel test
A simple, inexpensive ultrasound test of the heel might reveal whether a person is at risk of osteoporosis and should get more extensive tests.
By Nathan Seppa - Ecosystems
On Whales’ Appetites: What a Waste
An advocacy group and renowned scientist floundered in an attempt to compel opinion shapers with the science showing that industrial fleets, not whales, pose a serious threat to fish stocks.
By Janet Raloff - Health & Medicine
Curative leaf
Compound in marijuana reduces inflammation without the psychological effects.
By Amy Maxmen - Health & Medicine
Pain, numbness, pain
Some anesthetics not only cause a burning feeling when they're given, but can also increase the pain felt after surgery.
- Humans
Schooling the vote
Where you cast your ballot can affect how you cast your ballot.
By Bruce Bower - Humans
Whaling back to the future
International commission meets after soul-searching on years of dispute.
By Susan Milius