Researchers have identified a potential biological signature of sleep loss in saliva, bringing scientists closer to an objective test for detecting dangerous fatigue. A driver who has been awake for an entire day can be as impaired as someone who is legally intoxicated. Yet unlike alcohol, there is no roadside test that can objectively determine [...]

Scientists have developed “living plastics” that can be programmed to break themselves down when triggered. Many plastic items are made for one-time use, but the materials can remain in the environment for years. Researchers are exploring a different approach: living plastics, materials built with microbes that can be activated to break down the polymer when [...]