Science Quickly

Scientific American
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Apr 27, 2016 • 3min

Traces of Pharmaceuticals Dwell in Wastewater-Grown Veggies

Volunteers ate veggies grown in wastewater had higher but safe levels of an epilepsy drug. Exploring the use of wastewater for irrigation and the presence of pharmaceutical residues in wastewater-grown veggies.
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Apr 26, 2016 • 4min

This Plant Bleeds Nectar to Attract Help

A unique plant bleeds sugary nectar to attract ants that protect it from beetles, forming a beneficial relationship that boosts the plant's growth
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Apr 25, 2016 • 3min

Climbing Bears Help Plants Keep Cool

Mountain-climbing bears may seem like an unusual ally for cherry trees, but they play a crucial role in helping them survive climate change. These bears carry seeds to higher altitudes where temperatures are cooler, ensuring the trees thrive as the planet warms. The discussion highlights the fascinating interactions between species and the importance of biodiversity. It also raises questions about how different species may respond to changes in their environment.
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Apr 22, 2016 • 3min

Lower Your Voice Pitch to Persuade

Study reveals that lowering your voice pitch during an argument can make you more influential and persuasive.
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Apr 21, 2016 • 3min

This Primate's Calls Obey a Linguistic Law

Primate vocalizations follow linguistic law similar to human communication. Study reveals universal principles in complex vocal systems and evolution of efficient communication strategies among animals.
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Apr 20, 2016 • 3min

Woodpecker Head Bangs Communicate Info

Woodpeckers use drumming to communicate information and coordinate their defense of territory. The length of the drumming sound conveys the woodpecker's strength, while pairs of woodpeckers respond to long drums to protect their investment in nesting.
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Apr 19, 2016 • 3min

Gambling Gave Science Some Lucky Breaks

Explore how science has benefited from the study of gambling and probability theory, highlighting the contributions of mathematicians such as Fermatin and Pascal.
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Apr 18, 2016 • 3min

Microbots Get the Lead Out--of Wastewater

Discover microscopic aquatic robots that can remove heavy metal contaminants from water, providing a cost-effective solution
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Apr 15, 2016 • 4min

Heat ID'd as Subtle Cause of Rockfalls

Rockfalls can occur without any obvious reason. Researchers reveal that fluctuating temperatures might be the hidden culprit. In Yosemite Valley, heat expands tiny cracks in cliff faces, making them unstable. High summer temperatures could increase the risk of rockfalls. Understanding this connection is vital for safety in areas prone to these natural events.
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Apr 14, 2016 • 3min

Bearcats Naturally Pass the Popcorn

Researchers uncover the chemistry behind the popcorn-like scent of binturongs, revealing that they obtain the smell from bacteria on their fur or in their intestines. The scent is used to communicate information about their species and reproductive readiness.

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