At Scientific American, Larry Greenemeier has a piece about the science behind the three (possibly four) improvised explosive devices that killed at least three people yesterday in Boston. It might be easy to build bombs like these, but their DIY construction techniques also leave clues that help investigators find the people responsible.
Interview with an expert in improvised explosive devices
Spiders seem to dream, scientists discover
One clue that dogs, cats, and other animals are dreaming is that their legs sometimes twitch as if they're running. Now, scientists have recorded video (below) of jumping spiders doing the same thing, suggesting that they're in a state resembling REM sleep and likely dreaming. University of Konstanz behavioral ecologist Daniela Rößler made the discovery… READ THE REST
Bachelorette parties "destroying LGBTQ+ safe spaces" in Provincetown
Bridal celebrations are muscling in on the spaces created by queer and marginalized folks, effectively forcing them out and appropriating the safety therein. Researchers studying venues in Provincetown, Massachussets, report a process similar to gentrification—"hetrification"—where loaded white women trying to escape the straight world only succeed in bringing it back to the places from which… READ THE REST
Your teabag is rich in insect DNA that could help scientists track endangered species
There's a slew of insect DNA floating in your cup of tea. The minute bits were left behind from pollinating bees, spider webs strung across the plants, and other natural occurrences where insects were in close proximity to the tea plant. Now, Trier University ecological geneticist Henrik Krehenwinkel and colleagues are exploring whether the DNA… READ THE REST
This American Sign Language training is price-dropped again. This time, it's for a charitable cause!
With around a million people using American Sign Language in the U.S. these days, there's a chance you'll encounter someone who uses this way of communication, even if you don't personally know anyone who is deaf or hard of hearing. That's why more folks are becoming interested in learning ASL, understanding the importance of being able… READ THE REST
Channel your inner rock god and help a worthy cause with this guitar accessory
Whether it's Jimmy Page, Slash, or Jimi Hendrix, watching your favorite rocker can make those fantastic guitar riffs sound easy. But if you've ever picked up a guitar before, you know that acquiring those skills is easier said than done. It takes a lot of practice, a few calluses, and serious dedication to sound the way… READ THE REST
Invest in your kids' education and those in need with these great e-learning programs
As summer comes to an end, getting your kids excited about their education can be as hard as convincing them to eat some broccoli along with their pizza. But with helpful — and dare we say fun — e-learning programs, your kids can fully immerse themselves in their creativity, critical thinking skills, and more, and they can… READ THE REST
