No. 1 solar energy provider First Solar continued to shine in the second quarter, late Thursday reporting profit and sales that crushed analyst views.

Falling solar prices are pinching most solar firms now, but could end up spurring more use of solar power in the near future.

A recent likely comet collision on Jupiter caused a minor sensation, but new research shows that similar impacts on Earth are most likely not responsible for any of the planet’s mass extinctions, nor have they been responsible for more than one minor extinction event.

Everyone knows that vitamins “from A to zinc” are important for good health. Now, a new research study suggests that zinc may be pointing the way to new therapeutic targets for fighting infections. Specifically, scientists found that zinc not only supports healthy immune function, but increases activation of the cells (T cells) responsible for destroying viruses and bacteria.

Assisted reproductive techniques alter the expression of genes that are important for metabolism and the transport of nutrients in the placenta of mice. The results underscore the need for greater understanding of the long-term effects of new assisted reproductive techniques in humans.

Striking differences in the risk factors for developing heart failure (HF) and patient prognosis exist between men and women. Men and women may also respond differently to treatment, raising concerns about whether current practices provide the best care and reinforcing the urgency for sex-specific clinical trials for HF, according to a new review article.