Whether it’s items in a shop, potential speed-dating matches or athletes competing one after another, the order in which they’re presented affects our judgments.
Victorian attitudes influenced what scientists thought they were observing about sexual behaviors in the animal world. But modern techniques reveal the myth for what it is.
Will your cellphone be able to communicate with bacteria in your body?
Bacteria image via www.shutterstock.com.
New research works out how to translate between the language of biology – molecules – and the language of microelectronics – electrons. It could open the door to new kinds of biosensors and therapeutics.
Mi Zhang, Michigan State University; David Mohr, Northwestern University, and Jingbo Meng, Michigan State University
Using sensors on smartphones and smartwatches can shed light on patients’ symptoms of depression, even identifying ones they didn’t notice or share with counselors.
What’s left when Obama walks off into the sunset?
Jason Reed/Reuters
Flu virus mutates so quickly that one year’s vaccine won’t work on the next year’s common strains. But a new way to create vaccines, called ‘rational design,’ might pave the way for more lasting solutions.
Yeah, I’m not hearing that.
Woman picture via www.shutterstock.com.
Quirks of human psychology can pose problems for science communicators trying to cover controversial topics. Recognizing what cognitive science knows about how we deal with new information could help.
These mini lightning bolts have been known for millennia. Understanding static electricity at the atomic level opens the door for new technologies – as well as ways to cut down on the tiny zaps.
When calling these people, you want to be able to get through.
Fairfax County, Virginia
‘Denial of service’ cyberattacks are increasingly used to shut down websites. New research reveals that 911 call centers are vulnerable to the threat as well.
A president’s science advisor is traditionally a close confidant.
AP Photo/Charles Dharapak
Innovation is a huge part of economic growth – and the White House needs to be well-informed on science and tech issues when setting goals and budgets. Here’s how presidents get up to speed.
At one time, Bibles and Sears catalogs were printed here. Now, this building is known as the Lakeside Technology Center, one of the largest data centers in the world.
Teemu008/flicker
Data centers are taking over the factories where workers once processed checks, baked bread and printed Bibles. What will the rise of the information-based economy mean for American cities?
Hands off – but do we trust the car?
AP Photo/Eric Risberg
The ethics and psychology of trust suggest ways we might learn to understand self-driving cars, but also show why doing so might be more challenging than we expect.
Look out!
Delivery drone illustration via shutterstock.com
Did your holiday gift list include radiation-shielding undies to protect your privates from cellphone radio waves? A radiation expert explains they’re unnecessary – your phone won’t affect your fertility.
The outgoing president leaves behind some solid accomplishments in the world of science, tech and medicine. But the biggest departure from his predecessors might have been in his approach.
From the comfort of home, an activist shares an online petition.
AP Photo/Federica De Caria
Much social good can come from mass involvement – and research shows that includes online activism. The bigger picture takes in all those people who care but are at risk of doing nothing.
Whom do we become in online comments?
Troll via shutterstock.com