All Stories by Alison Pearce Stevens
- Environment
Plastic trash rides ocean currents to the Arctic
Ocean currents can carry plastic trash far from the cities that shed it. Some plastic debris has made it all of the way to the Arctic Ocean, new data show.
- Health & Medicine
Tattoos: The good, the bad and the bumpy
Tattoos and their inks can cause regrets and allergic reactions. But here’s a surprise: Some inked body art may actually benefit health by boosting its host’s immune system.
- Psychology
Noticing mistakes boosts learning
People who pay attention to their mistakes are more likely to do better the next time, data show.
- Psychology
Teens make riskier decisions than children or adults
Teens may make risky decisions in part because they don’t care about uncertainty.
- Health & Medicine
Violence spreads like a virus
New research shows that the friends of violent teens are much more likely to become violent themselves.
- Psychology
What makes a pretty face?
Beautiful faces are symmetrical and average. Do we prefer them because this makes them easier for our brains to process?
- Health & Medicine
What is IQ — and how much does it matter?
Studies reveal that intelligence — and success in life — depend on more than what IQ tests measure.
- Computing
Self-designed tattoos are fashionable technology
Researchers have created do-it-yourself temporary tattoos. They’re a fashion-forward way to control electronic devices.
- Health & Medicine
This supplement makes calorie-rich foods less tempting
A supplement that contains the fatty acid propionate causes the brain to rate high-calorie foods less appealing.
- Health & Medicine
Blame your ‘environment’ for your taste in music
Some scientists had thought we are born with our musical tastes. But a new study finds that what the ear prefers depends on what we listened to as we were growing up.
- Brain
Small region of brain recognizes facial expressions
Scientists identify the brain region responsible for recognizing facial expressions in others. It helps us know whether others are happy or sad.
- Health & Medicine
Teachers 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.
