Crowds beat computers in answer to Wikipedia-sized maths problem
A maths problem previously tackled with the help of a computer, which produced a proof the size of Wikipedia, has now been cut down to size by a human
Zoologger: The only raptor known to hunt in cooperative packs
Harris's hawks are unique in the raptor world in that they cooperate in groups when hunting, like wolves or humans. But why they do so is still a mystery
Activist bots recruit humans to their cause on Twitter
Protest movements could get a tech boost. Software can now comb social media to spread an activist group's messages – even targeting the most receptive people
Earthquake artificial intelligence knows where damage is worst
Algorithms can use seismic data and structural knowledge of buildings to judge which parts of a city will be most at risk and prioritise rescue efforts
First digital map of ocean sediments reveals weaker carbon sink
A mismatch of phytoplankton at the sea surface and floor suggests the world's biggest carbon sink may lock up less carbon than we thought
Womb transplants get go-ahead in the UK: What you need to know
From next year, 10 women will receive a donated uterus as part of a clinical trial, following the success of a similar trial in Sweden. How does it work?
DNA-cutting enzymes could slice through gene editing patent spat
The most significant biotechnology breakthrough in recent years, a technology called CRISPR, has sparked a patent battle: novel research suggests a workaround
Genes protecting smokers’ health one of many UK Biobank findings
Those with a long smoking habit and good health might have their genes to thank – one of many findings emerging from a vast genetic resource
Our knack for remembering faces is a highly evolved skill
A massive study of twins finds that facial recognition ability is coded in our genes – but few of those genes also affect general intelligence
Shell abandons oil exploration in Alaska but stays in the Arctic
The oil giant might have announced it is pulling out of drilling under the Chukchi Sea – but its ventures in the Russian and Scandinavian Arctic continue
