National

The former mayor of Providence, R.I., has died after a bout with cancer. Vincent "Buddy" Cianci was a longtime colorful figure in local politics having served two stints as mayor. He was known for his unpredictable behavior, temper and love for his city.

Millions are still uninsured, even as the Jan. 31 deadline to sign up for a plan under the Affordable Care Act approaches. No deadline extensions this year, federal health officials warn.

Scientists need curiosity, determination — and luck. We're especially interested in that last bit, so tell us your stories of mistakes and surprises that led to discoveries in the past few years.

"We all want to leave," says Sandy Anderson, a militant who's still in the refuge. "We're here, and we're worried we're going to die."

When the gloomy octopus of Australia turns dark and towers threateningly over his neighbor, he's likely signaling aggression, scientists now say. Neighbors get the message — they turn pale and flee.

He was once America's longest-serving mayor. He led Providence, R.I., through a renaissance, but his terms in office — and personal life — were marred by corruption and scandal. He was 74.

Private insurers billed California $387.5 million to treat just 3,624 patients with new medications for hepatitis C. The people are covered by the state's Medicaid program.

Gov. Paul LePage's comments follow remarks earlier this month in which he characterized drug dealers as men named "D-Money, Smoothie, Shifty" who come to Maine and "impregnate young white girls."

A new study shows that women with parents of different background are more likely to consider themselves "multiracial" than men.

The wheelchair is part of Lego's City line and will go on sale in June, according to Lego's spokesperson in Britain and Ireland.