Research Debunks the Myth of HIV’s Patient Zero

One man has been blamed for the spread of HIV across the US: Gaetan Dugas. Often referred to as “Patient Zero,” he was characterized as a flight attendant whose promiscuity sparked the epidemic nationwide. Finally, research surrounding the origins of the virus have shown that Dugas, in fact, could not be responsible. According to Dr Richard Elion, the myth of Patient Zero was likely created …

Fascinating Images of Dried Teardrops

For his ongoing project “The Imaginarium of Tears,” Dutch artist Maurice Mikkers photographs microscopic prints created by dried teardrops collected from friends, family members and even complete strangers. Like fingerprints, each tear forms a completely unique crystalline pattern—subtle differences that Mikkers hopes to research further. His works will be on display in Kuwait City beginning 29 March. Head to Quartz to learn more about his …

Link About It: This Week’s Picks

Revealing Banksy's indentity, NASA's new invention, the darkest pigment in the world and more in our look at the web

1. Banksy’s True Identity Using a technique called “geographic profiling”—which is mostly used to catch serial criminals—scientists at Queen Mary University of London claim to have discovered the true identity of the infamous street artist Banksy. After building a geoprofile from the locations of 140 of Bansky’s suspected artworks, the team was able to pinpoint different “hot spots” all strongly linked to one individual: Robin …