Health & Medicine
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BrainA ‘cocktail’ in the brain can trigger sleep
A new study finds that a ‘cocktail’ of chemicals in the brain can directly cause mice to fall asleep or waken.
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Health & MedicineTeens take home huge awards for their research
Top three prizes — adding up to $175,000 — are a small fraction of the approximately $4 million just handed out at the 2016 Intel International Science and Engineering Fair.
By Sid Perkins -
Health & MedicineInjured leg? Here’s a built-in footstool
Sometimes doctors advise people to keep a leg elevated, but there’s no footstool to rest it on. A teen designed a brace with a built-in kickstand.
By Sid Perkins -
BrainEyes offer new window into Alzheimer’s disease
The eye’s retina is distinctly different in people with Alzheimer’s disease compared to those with no signs of the malady, two teens now report finding. It could lead to earlier diagnosis of the brain disease.
By Sid Perkins -
ChemistryKeeping samples cool without electricity
When vaccines and blood get too warm or cold, they can become useless. Two teens invented ways to keep their temperatures just right, no matter where they are.
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Health & MedicineThe cool science of hot peppers
Why are chili peppers spicy? Why does anyone crave food that burns? Uncovering this fiery veggie’s secrets could help fight pain and obesity.
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Health & MedicineTeachers make time for Ebola and other current events
Science teachers want to cover current science and health topics, but struggle to find good resources for their students.
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BrainHeaded to a concert this summer? Pack earplugs
Wearing earplugs at concerts and other loud events may prevent hearing loss and permanent ear damage, a new study suggests.
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BrainExplainer: When loud becomes dangerous
Many people don’t realize that sounds — even those of the music they love — can prove harmful when they get too loud.
By Janet Raloff -
Health & MedicineTeen vaping soars past cigarette use
Most U.S. states ban sales of e-cigarette products to kids. Still, new data show that it’s no sweat for tweens and teens to buy them online.
By Janet Raloff -
Health & MedicineTeen girls start drinking earlier than boys
Teen girls now tend to take up drinking alcohol earlier than do boys, data show. Drinking-prevention programs, however, tend to focus on boys.
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Health & MedicineNewly discovered microbe keeps teeth healthy
A newfound bacterium halts the tooth erosion that leads to cavities. This germ or one like it might one day be added to toothpaste or mouthwash.