All Stories
- Plants
Sweet Lurkers: Cryptic fungi protect chocolate-tree leaves
A whole world of fungi thrives inside tree leaves without causing any harm, and researchers now say these residents may help fight disease.
- Health & Medicine
Risk Profile: C-reactive protein may presage hypertension
High concentrations of the inflammatory compound C-reactive protein may signal an elevated risk of high blood pressure.
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The conclusion does not follow from the data in this article. The possibility was not ruled out that the same inborn trait that causes fear of novelty also hastens aging. A cohort of novelty-averse rats should have been left stressfree to answer this important question. Tom PaskalMontreal, Quebec
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Worried to Death: Lifelong inhibitions hasten rodents’ deaths
In rats with a fear of novel situations, an exaggerated hormonal response to minor types of stress adds up to a shorter life than that of bold rats.
- Earth
Slowing Puberty? Pesticide may hinder development in boys
Long-term exposure to the pesticide endosulfan may delay the onset of puberty in boys.
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- Astronomy
Breach of the Shield: Magnetic links between sun and Earth last hours
Once breaches have formed in Earth's protective magnetic field, they persist for many hours, allowing charged particles from the sun to gush through and create electrical disturbances.
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Model Mice: Blood reveals signs of pancreatic cancer
Mice that develop pancreatic cancer show signs of the disease long before malignant tumors arise, just as people with this type of cancer do.
- Earth
Gemstone Geography: New technique discerns emeralds’ beginnings
Water molecules trapped inside the minuscule channels of an emerald harbor telltale signs of the gem's geographic origin.
- Earth
When Drought Reigns, Diets Can Turn Poisonous
This time of year, most of the Western world is focusing on holiday indulgences: how many presents to buy, how many lights and candles to festoon the home, and how many sweets and feasts to offer family and friends. However, for many people in drought-stricken Africa, food and water will be in perilously short supply […]
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Genome made quickly from scratch
Scientists have synthesized a viral genome in record time.
- Astronomy
Spying a planet in star’s dusty veil
Astronomers blocked out the light of a nearby star and found hints of an orbiting planet.
