John R. Platt is a freelance journalist specializing in environmental issues, cutting-edge technology, and entrepreneurship. He writes about endangered species for Scientific American and green technology for several publishers. John lives on the coast of Maine where he spends his spare time drawing cartoons. Visit him online at www.johnrplatt.com.
You can thank 1940s sex symbol Hedy Lamarr for today's Wi-Fi and Bluetooth devices
August 7, 2018, 10:57 a.m. by John Platt
The actress helped invent spread-spectrum radio technology, the precursor of modern wireless communications.
Fabled 'Gate to Hell' really did kill people — and now we know why
July 30, 2018, 10:19 a.m. by John Platt
The ancient Romans saw 'Pluto's Gate' as the entrance to the underworld.
Starfish make remarkable comeback years after deadly disease outbreak
June 26, 2018, 10:16 a.m. by John Platt
The disease caused starfish to lose their limbs, dissolve and die.
Invasive plant that can cause blindness pops up in Virginia for first time
June 18, 2018, 10:10 a.m. by John Platt
Touching a giant hogweed can cause burns and even blindness.
Cyberslacking boosts workplace productivity
May 21, 2018, 11:08 a.m. by John Platt
Checking Facebook and laughing at LOLcats makes you a more productive worker, research shows.
Why San Diego's tides are glowing blue
May 10, 2018, 10:31 a.m. by John Platt
Bioluminescent algae blooms every few years on the California coast.
Is Amazon Prime eco-friendly or wasteful?
April 19, 2018, 8:42 a.m. by John Platt
Does the ease of free, one-click shipping outweigh the potential environmental costs?
Did researchers find Amelia Earhart's skeleton?
March 8, 2018, 10:56 a.m. by John Platt
Remains found in 1940 and analyzed in recent years may be the pilot.
Should texting while walking be banned?
February 27, 2018, 10:04 a.m. by John Platt
More places want to fine people who cross the street with their eyes glued to their phones.
Installation begins on Jeff Bezos' 10,000-year clock
February 21, 2018, 11:51 a.m. by John Platt
The clock is "designed to be a symbol, an icon for long-term thinking."
Should intelligent animals have human rights?
November 15, 2017, 1:54 p.m. by John Platt
A lawsuit from the Nonhuman Rights Project seeks legal personhood for 3 captive elephants in Connecticut and other animals like them.
CDC issues new warning about salmonella from pet turtles
August 30, 2017, 10:56 a.m. by John Platt
Small turtles are illegal, but they are still available from many less-reputable dealers.
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17 popsicle recipes
You only need a popsicle mold and a blender to get started.
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Dogs that love the beach
With the water, the sand and the sea air, there's just so much to adore.
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10 keys to a great vacation
To make sure it's the best time it can be, a little planning is in order.
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Beaches with unique sand
Here are eight beaches where you can find exceptionally beautiful sand that strays from the norm.
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5 smoothie recipes
Feel free to mix and match these ingredients to create your own refreshing combo.
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How to attract fireflies
Fireflies are like nature's fairy lights, and who doesn't want more of that?
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8 places to escape the heat
You can ski, ice skate, play in snow or just enjoy the cool weather.
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