In all, the astronomic hype was met with earth-shaking backlash in 2010 and 2011. In 2012, Science published two studies refuting the claim that GFAJ-1 incorporates arsenic atoms into its DNA. Outside scientists concluded that it is an arsenic-tolerant extremophile, but not a profoundly different life form.

A controversial 2010 study that suggested bacteria could grow using arsenic instead of phosphorus has been retracted by the research journal Science.

The journal Science retracts a headline-grabbing study, but the authors vigorously defend their data and say the retraction is unwarranted.

The Social Security Administration has backed off from plans to eliminate paper checks. However, it will only send checks in the mail as a matter of last resort.

A report has found that nearly 73 percent of seniors depend on Social Security for half their income, and most are not satisfied with how much they get.