Science

Scientists refer to 1905 as Albert Einstein's year of miracles. To commemorate the centennial anniversary of the famous scientist's breakthrough research, 2005 has been named the year of Einstein. Midmorning remembers the man whose ideas changed the way we view our world.
The House voted overwhelmingly Wednesday to require that the amount of ethanol in gasoline sold in Minnesota be doubled over the next decade, with supporters citing economic opportunity for rural areas and decreased dependence on foreign oil.
In the wake of an audit showing lax Internet security, a top state official said Tuesday he can't guarantee users of a state vehicle registration Web site that credit card data and other personal information was safe from hackers.
The Mayo Clinic released two studies Wednesday that begin to identify possible causes of Parkinson's disease. In one, researchers found elevated anxiety levels increased the likelihood of developing the disease. In the second, researchers found women who have both ovaries removed also face an increased risk of developing the neurological problem. The findings were presented in Miami at the American Academy of Neurology.
Minnesotans who drive alone, but who want to take the high occupancy lanes on Highway 394, can sign up for accounts that give them access starting today. MPR's Cathy Wurzer spoke with Kevin Gutknecht, spokesperson for the Minnesota Department of Transportation, about the new program.
Sometimes it's hard to get children excited about science. Some kids don't think it's interesting, and some might think it's too hard. Author Lynne Brunelle has a new book, "Pop Bottle Science," which makes science more accessible for kids. She tried out one of her experiments recently, along with MPR's Greta Cunningham.
The possibility of energy shortages has renewed interest in nuclear energy in the United States and around the world. But some argue the problems of safety and how to dispose of waste continue to linger.
The U.S. Supreme Court recently debated one of the most important copyright cases in two decades. The case, MGM v. Grokster, may settle the fight between old and new entertainment media.
The X and Y chromosomes have become icons for what makes men and women different. Two major studies appearing in the latest issue of Nature are helping geneticists shed light on the differences between the genders.
The Metropolitan Council's 25-year plan includes three new parks. But securing the land will be difficult in the fast-growing areas of the Twin Cities.