Every so often, when I catch up with New Scientist news, I hit upon an amazing concentration of stories that resonate with importance or fascination, to any number of which I feel I could post links. So I will:
- ‘Safe’ lead levels still damage children’s IQ: Blood levels below maximum limits still dent intelligence, new research shows – in fact, most of the damage occurs at low levels
- Adult stem cells tackle multiple sclerosis: The cells sought out and repaired damaged nerves in mice – primate experiments are now underway
- Flashes seen by astronauts remain mysterious: The strange streaks of light seen by people on space missions, linked to cosmic rays, still defy a full explanation
- SARS virus is mutating, fear doctors: Scientists in Hong Kong are scouring the virus’s genetic code, after the symptoms presented by patients change
- New fuel tank design linked to shuttle disaster: A combination of a new external fuel tank design and an ageing spacecraft may been triggered the tragic chain of events
- Depleted uranium casts shadow over peace in Iraq: To overcome Iraqi forces, coalition troops fired thousands of shells tipped with DU – but its long-term health effects are still not fully understood
- Botox could break the pain barrier: Combining the potent neurotoxin with a protein from the Mediterranean coral tree could give a long-lasting treatment for chronic pain
- Snail mail attack could be launched online: An avalanche of unwanted post could be released upon a victim using only an internet connection and some simple code
- Double DNA chance of identifying Saddam: Two DNA techniques could be used to recognise the former Iraqi dictator – one offers relative ease, the other certainty
- Alcoholic blackouts may lead to heavier drinking: Drinkers may fill in the blanks after binges with rosy memories, putting them at greater risk of future alcoholism, say researchers
