Science

The limits of big data
We've been hearing a lot about the power of "big data" and how harnessing the increasing amount of data being compiled about individuals can change the way we live. But are there limits to what we can learn from data?
Private US firms take major role vs. cyberattacks
When Kevin Mandia, a retired military cybercrime investigator, decided to expose China as a primary threat to U.S. computer networks, he didn't have to consult with American diplomats in Beijing or declassify tactics to safely reveal government secrets.
Mapping the human brain
In his address last week, President Barack Obama called for investment in mapping the human brain. Much like the Human Genome project, the Brain Activity Map will be a decade-long exploration into the workings of the human brain.
NASA rover preps for 1st test of drilled Mars rock
Fresh off drilling into a rock for the first time, the Mars rover Curiosity is prepping for the next step: dissecting the pulverized rock to determine what it's made of.
US ready to strike back against China cyberattacks
As public evidence mounts that the Chinese military is responsible for stealing massive amounts of U.S. government data and corporate trade secrets, the Obama administration is eyeing fines and other trade actions it may take against Beijing or any other country guilty of cyberespionage.
Ben Goldacre on 'Bad Pharma'
In his latest book "Bad Pharma," Ben Goldacre looks into the pharmaceutical industry practice of not publishing all clinical trial data regarding new drugs.
How high school impacts psychological development
Memories of high school remain vivid in our memories long after we graduate. New science reveals more about the psychological effects that high school experiences have throughout our lives.
Univ. of Minn. chemist seeks greater understanding of blood
Tom Weber goes inside the lab of renowned chemist Christy Haynes at the University of Minnesota. Haynes' research focuses on blood platelets.
Has American innovation stalled?
A feature in The Economist last month posed the question, "Has the ideas machine broken down?" In other words, have innovation and technology stopped driving economic growth worldwide?
Facebook gets unwelcome look at hackers' dark side
Facebook is getting an unwelcome look at the shady side of the hacking culture that CEO Mark Zuckerberg celebrates.