Uncategorized
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PhysicsCounting cracks in glass gives speed of projectile
There is a simple relationship between an object's velocity and the number of spokes it leaves in a dinged windshield or fractured windowpane.
By Andrew Grant -
TechRecreating the eye of the fly
Inspired by insect vision, camera with 180 linked lenses captures panoramic views.
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AnimalsFossil illuminates ancestry of swifts and hummingbirds
Spectacularly preserved remains suggest that the two avian groups' predecessors got small before splitting and developing their flying chops.
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LifeGenetic fossils betray hepatitis B’s ancient roots
Modern bird genomes reveal evidence that virus is at least 82 million years old.
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SpaceSnapshots reveal details of Saturn’s gigantic hurricane
Storm dwarfs anything on Earth, with enormous eye and whipping winds.
By Erin Wayman -
LifeBees need honey’s natural pharmaceuticals
Ingredients trigger insects' genes for detoxification and immune defenses against bacteria.
By Susan Milius -
Health & MedicineBrain measurements predict math progress with tutoring
The size and connections of a brain structure associated with memory formation predicted learning ability in 8- and 9-year-old children.
By Meghan Rosen -
HumansWhat ancient mummies have to tell us about the perils of modern life
Once you hit a certain age, visiting a doctor is basically a guilt trip. All that satisfying stuff you eat, drink or smoke is killing you, a white-coated overachiever tells you. You need to exercise and lose weight, or the grim reaper will be at your door long before you’re ready. And it will all […]
By Matt Crenson -
SpaceLHC detects asymmetry in particle’s decay
While interesting, the imbalance in the decay of strange B mesons isn’t large enough to explain why matter predominates over antimatter in the universe.
By Andrew Grant -
Health & MedicineHIV vaccine trial stopped
Shots-plus-booster strategy deemed ineffective in preventing infection.
By Nathan Seppa -
Health & MedicineHookah smoking delivers carcinogens and carbon monoxide
Water pipes deliver carcinogens, nicotine and carbon monoxide to the user, a study finds.
By Nathan Seppa -
LifeSigns of culture in whales and monkeys
Mammals learn feeding behaviors from their friends and family members.
By Meghan Rosen