Get Ready for a Year of Chaotic Weather in the US
A massive Western heat wave and a potential El Niño event raise concerns about a long stretch of unpredictable and extreme weather.
A Quantum Leap for the Turing Award
Charles Bennett and Gilles Brassard pioneered quantum information theory. Now they’ve been awarded the highest honor in computer science.
A New Study Details How Cats Almost Always Land on Their Feet
The secret to this acrobatic skill lies in an extremely flexible part of the spine that allows cats to twist in the air and land safely.
You Can Approximate Pi by Dropping Needles on the Floor
Who needs a supercomputer when you can calculate pi with a box of sewing needles?
Japan Approves the World’s First Treatment Made With Reprogrammed Human Cells
Researchers in Japan pioneered reprogrammed cells 20 years ago. Now the country has given the first-ever authorizations to manufacture and sell medical products based on the technology.
The Shingles Virus May Be Aging You More Quickly
Evidence suggests reactivations of the varicella-zoster virus may accelerate aging and raise dementia risk. Now scientists want to know if vaccines and antivirals could help protect the brain.
The South Carolina Measles Outbreak Is Slowing Down
The biggest US measles outbreak in decades may be over sooner than expected.
Technology Is Reshaping Sleep Apnea Treatment
For decades, cumbersome CPAP machines have been the primary way to help people with sleep apnea. A range of new options has recently come into focus.
Interstellar Comet 3I/Atlas Has Another Surprise: It’s Full of Alcohol
Analysis of the tail of 3I/Atlas reveals that it contains an anomalous proportion of methanol, a class of alcohol used in fuels.
How Can a Locomotive Pull a Long Train That’s Much Heavier?
For railroads, it’s all about managing static and kinetic friction.