Science

Science’s COVID-19 reporting is supported by the Pulitzer Center and the Heising-Simons Foundation.

Scientists have found a significant association between the consumption of flavanol-rich foods, like apples, cocoa and nuts, and lower blood pressure.

The East Troublesome Fire grew by 6,000 acres in an hour on Wednesday.

The volatile compounds released by microbial communities on cheese rinds shape and shift a cheese’s microbiome. Christopher Intagliata reports. 

Although bird brains are tiny, they’re packed with neurons, especially in areas responsible for higher level thinking. Two studies published last month in Science explore the structure and function of avian brains—revealing they are organized similarly to mammals’ and are capable of conscious thought.

But even if vaccines are approved soon, several major roadblocks could significantly delay the timeline of distribution.

For all its drawbacks, aging brings a benefit: Social relationships generally improve. Older individuals have fewer but closer friendships, avoid conflicts, and are more optimistic compared with younger adults. Now, 20 years of data on chimpanzees suggest they, too, develop more meaningful friendships as they age.