Life
Sign up for our newsletter
We summarize the week's scientific breakthroughs every Thursday.
-
AnimalsNew HIV-1 group
Scientists have identified another variant of the virus that can cause AIDS.
-
-
-
LifeBent innards give orchid its kick
Violent pollen delivery in Catasetum flowers gets its power from temporarily deformed inner strip
By Susan Milius -
EcosystemsChurning the numbers
Some of the ocean’s small swimmers may be having a big impact on ocean mixing.
-
AgricultureHow weed killers might protect our eyes: It’s corny
Herbicides can boost trace-nutrient concentrations in sweet corn.
By Janet Raloff -
ChemistryBrilliant blue for the spine
A study in rats suggests the blue dye similar to that found in popsicles and sports drinks may prevent cell death after spinal cord injury.
-
LifeAllergy meds slim down obese mice
Animal study shows over-the-counter medications lower weight and treat type 2 diabetes. The study is one of four to link type 2 diabetes with the immune system.
-
PaleontologyFossil shows first all-American honeybee
Nevada find contradicts long-held view of Europe and Asia as the native land of all honeybees.
By Susan Milius -
AnimalsToucan’s bill gives big chill
Bird’s supersized bill can switch personal air conditioning on and off, new research suggests.
By Susan Milius -
LifeBeetle masters optics
Researchers may gain inspiration from the shell of Chrysina gloriosa, which twists light in a particular way.
-
Health & MedicineChimpanzees die from primate version of HIV
A new study links the simian immunodeficiency virus to serious AIDS-like illness in a wild population.