Nose Reveals Time of Death

Researchers have discovered the tiny cilia inside the human nose continue to pulse in a predictable rate up to 20 hours after death and are relatively unaffected by environmental factors, providing an additional tool for forensic investigators.

Death of Decapitated Brain

Researching humane methods of euthanizing laboratory animals, scientists have discovered a wave of electrical activity in the brains of rats roughly a minute after decapitation, with corresponding phenomena found in the brains of human patients taken off life support, which may signal a final biochemical effort to restart failing brain function and provide a clear demarcation of brain death.

Tools from Human Bones

A new analysis of about 5000 bone fragments from the ancient Aztec city of Teotihuacan reveals that femurs, tibia and skulls were fashioned into household tools shortly after death, each finely defleshed using stone tools.

"Smell of Death" Identified

A chemical blend of fatty acids has been identified in animals that is released upon their death, a "smell of death" biological warning system possibly developed to alert others to avoid disease or other hazards.