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Science history: Female chemist initially barred from research helps develop drug for remarkable-but-short-lived recovery in children with leukemia — Dec. 6, 1954
By Tia Ghose published
In December 1954, Gertrude Elion and colleagues described a new compound they had developed that sent children with leukemia into remission. It would guide a new approach to "rational drug design."

A huge helium shortage is looming — but ancient rocks in Earth's crust may be hiding massive reservoirs
By Sascha Pare published
For decades, helium has been produced with natural gas, generating huge carbon emissions. Now, geologists are looking for new helium sources — and finding enormous "carbon-free" reservoirs that could revolutionize the industry.

'Intelligence comes at a price, and for many species, the benefits just aren't worth it': A neuroscientist's take on how human intellect evolved
By Nikolay Kukushkin published
Book In his book "One Hand Clapping," Nikolay Kukushkin explores explanations for how consciousness evolved, and ultimately, what makes us human.

A woman got a rare parasitic lung infection after eating raw frogs
By Mindy Weisberger published
In an unusual case, a woman developed a parasitic infection in her lungs, when more typically, the parasite stays just under the skin.

Trio of 'black mesas' leftover from Paleozoic era spawn rare sand dunes in the Sahara
By Harry Baker published
Earth from space A 2023 astronaut photo shows three dark hills, or mesas, towering above part of the Sahara desert in southern Mauritania. The structures are remnants of a single Paleozoic era formation, and have helped to create a series of striking sand dunes.

Science history: Computer scientist lays out 'Moore's law,' guiding chip design for a half century — Dec. 2, 1964
By Tia Ghose published
At a small local chapter meeting of a professional society, Gordon Moore's talk laid out the rudiments of what would become "Moore's law", which would govern the electronics industry for a half century.

Roman sun hat: A 'very rare' 1,600-year-old brimmed cap that may have protected a Roman soldier from Egyptian sandstorms
By Kristina Killgrove published
A rare example of a sun hat from late Roman Egypt that was stitched together from fabrics in five colors.

Top 5 mistakes to avoid when shopping for activewear for Christmas
By Anna Gora published
Buying guides Shopping for running shoes and workout clothes this Cyber Monday ahead of Christmas? Here are 5 common mistakes to avoid, and what to do instead to secure the best deals.
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