Were Early American Prisons Similar to Today’s?
A correctional officer’s history of 19th century prisons and modern-day parallels. From Sing Sing to suicide watch, torture treads a fine line.
What is in an Ice Core?
Climate science frequently references ice cores, but it's what is in the cores that matters to science and history.
Plant of the Month: The Pawpaw
The pawpaw is finding champions again after colonizers' dismissal, increasing globalization and economic needs.
The Hidden History of Biology Textbooks
American biology textbooks supposedly became less scientific after the Scopes trial. One scholar argues that this isn't the whole story.
Climate Change’s Dangerous Effects on the Boreal Forest
The forest's unique ecosystem protects the world's largest carbon sink—the Earth's permafrost layer. But for how much longer?
Is Disgust Related to Morality?
The disgust response acts as a behavioral immune system, protecting us from disease, but produces strong reactions to perceived out-groups.
The Greenhouse Gas That’s More Potent Than Carbon Dioxide
Emitting just 1 ton of nitrous oxide—a common ingredient in synthetic fertilizer—is roughly equivalent to emitting 300 tons of carbon dioxide.
RV144: The Largest HIV Vaccine Trial in History
One of the biggest advances in AIDS vaccine research was a controversial, landmark treatment that tested a new vaccine on 16,000 Thai volunteers.
Community Care in the AIDS Crisis
The Shanti Project’s work in caring for people with AIDS provides valuable lessons in the efficacy of mutual aid in fighting disease.