Humans
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We summarize the week's scientific breakthroughs every Thursday.
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Health & MedicineProtein found to set the heart’s cadence
Researchers have discovered a molecular metronome that sets the rhythm of the heart and blood pressure.
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ChemistryNanosilver disinfects — but at what price?
Silver demonstrates some unusual immunological impacts at the nanoscale.
By Janet Raloff -
MathFlorence Nightingale: The passionate statistician
Florence Nightingale pioneered the use of applied statistics to develop policy and developed novel ways of displaying them.
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EarthMarine pollution spawns ‘wonky babies’
Featured blog: Pollutants at sea can slow critters' sperm or induce DNA damage.
By Janet Raloff -
Health & MedicineBone density may be determined in the gut
A surprising new connection between the gut and bones may lead to new forms of treatment for human bone diseases such as osteoporosis.
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Health & MedicineLifestyle may link depression and heart disease
The association between depression and heart problems could stem from a lack of physical activity and other lifestyle factors.
By Nathan Seppa -
HumansBaby boys may show spatial supremacy
Two new studies suggest that, at 3 to 5 months of age, boys already outperform girls on mental rotation tasks.
By Bruce Bower -
Health & MedicineMany drug trials never see publication
Results of most drug trials are unreported, inaccessible to clinicians and patients, a new study confirms.
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HumansIs Your Fish Oil Polluted?
Clues to gauging the likely purity of fish-oil capsules.
By Janet Raloff -
Health & MedicineBrain reorganizes to make room for math
New research suggests that, as children learn arithmetic, the brain reorganizes dramatically as it shifts from handling only estimates of quantities to attaching precise quantities to symbolic numerals.
By Bruce Bower -
HumansWhen Not to Flush
Toilets are not where we should be disposing of unwanted medicines.
By Janet Raloff -
EarthAntidepressants Aren’t for Fish
Antidepressants can play potentially dangerous mind games with fish.
By Janet Raloff