Gas on Mars Silent But Not Deadly
Scientists weigh the possibility that methane gas on Mars comes from microorganisms in the soil.
Having a Nose for Degraded Documents
A scientific 'sniff test' could aid museums and libraries in preserving their old works without damaging the actual documents.
Why It’s ‘OK’ to Leave the Party for a Quick Smoke
College party-goers share their reasons puffing on the patio ... and other odd studies highlighted in this month's Cocktail Napkin.
Testing People Who Get Spittin’ Mad
Researchers find that disappointed voters on Election Night 2008 experienced a dip in testosterone levels. How do they know? They measured the voters' spit, of course.
Which Dog Is the Smartest?
A leading canine researcher says dogs understand more than 150 words and can count up to four or five. He has compiled a list of the world's smartest dogs. See if your pooch cracks his Top 7.
These Art Critics Love to Ruffle Feathers
Professor Shigeru Watanabe from Keio University in Japan, writing in the journal Animal Cognition, says pigeons can use color, pattern and texture to distinguish good paintings from bad.
Looking Back in Anger
An esteemed professor rightly takes AIDS denialists to task, but his valuable history of the movement is at times a caustic read.
Shedding Light on Ice Hockey Blackouts
Miller-McCune magazine highlights current research that merits a raised eyebrow or a painful grin.
The Ecstasy and the Agony
MDMA holds promise as part of a therapy that helps post-traumatic stress patients confront and extinguish their fears. But ecstasy's recreational reputation has slowed research.
Today’s Threat Level: Yellow, With a Chance of Phlegm
Miller-McCune magazine highlights current research that merits a raised eyebrow or a painful grin.