Latest science news in Biology & Nature
Seeing the Risks of Humanity’s Hand in Species Evolution
Human predation is causing some species to evolve to reproduce at younger ages and smaller sizes, to the long-term harm of the species.
How 'Companion' Cells To Sperm Protect Them From Genetic Damage
In plant pollen grains, sperm cells, which carry the genetic material to be passed on to progeny, are cocooned within larger "companion" cells that provide sperm with energy and nourishment....
Blue the hue of creativity? Red for detail?
New research details how the brain reacts to colors: Red seems to improve attention to detail while blue sparks creativity.
First 1-gigabit, 44-nano DRAM chip made
SEOUL, Feb. 8 (UPI) -- Hynix Semiconductor has developed the world's first 1-gigabit dynamic random access memory chip, the company announced Sunday.
Predicting diversity within hotspots to enhance conservation
With limited funding and an inadequate number of scientists, governments in countries containing 'hotspots' of threatened biodiversity are wrestling with how to protect plants and animals in disappearing habitats...
The nonsense in our genes
1 in 200 of our human genes can be inactivated with no detectable effect on our health. A study by Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute scientists raises new questions about the...
Black wolves: The first genetically modified predators?
Emergence of black-coloured wolves is the direct result of humans raising dogs as pets and beasts of burden, according to new research by a University of Calgary biologist published by...
UCSB scientists make headway in understanding Alzheimer's disease
Scientists at UC Santa Barbara have discovered that a protein called BAG2 is important for understanding Alzheimer's disease and may open up new targets for drug discovery. They are ready...
Rot's wood degrading machinery to be harnessed for better biofuels production
An international team has translated the genetic code that explains the complex biochemical machinery making brown-rot fungi uniquely destructive to wood. read more
Fat cells talk to brain, claim Siberian hamsters
Researchers have found that fat cells give feedback to the brain in order to regulate fat burning much the same way a thermostat regulates temperature inside a house. read more
Stem cells in hair follicles point to general model of organ regeneration
(PhysOrg.com) -- Most people consider hair as a purely cosmetic part of their lives. To others, it may help uncover one of nature`s best-kept secrets: the body`s ability to regenerate...
Fingerprints And Faces Can Be Faked, But Not Brain Patterns
Sensors able to identify individuals' brain patterns and heart rhythms could become part of security systems which also use more traditional forms of biometric recognition.
Molecular Target For Treatment Of West Nile Encephalitis Identified Through Studies In Mice
In animal studies, researchers have identified molecular interactions that govern the immune system's ability to defend the brain against West Nile virus, offering the possibility that drug therapies could be...
Wolf In Dog's Clothing? Black Wolves May Be First 'Genetically Modified' Predators
Slipping through trees or across snow, the wolf has glided into legend on paws of white, gray or -- in North America -- even black. This last group owes an...
Researchers observe evolution chain reaction
A team of researchers are reporting the ongoing emergence of a new species of fruit fly - and the sequential development of a new species of wasp - in the...
Columbia research shows novel benefits of fatty acids in arteries
New research from Columbia University Medical Centre continues to shed light on the benefits of making fish a staple of any diet...
CSHL scientists discover link between control of chromosome duplication and segregation
Before a cell can divide into two, first it must duplicate its genetic material - the DNA packed in its chromosomes. The two new sets of chromosomes then have to...
Scientists narrow search for genes associated with the ability to 'see' sounds
A new study identifies specific chromosomal regions linked to auditory visual synaesthesia, a neurological condition characterised by seeing colours in response to sounds. The research, published online on 5th February...
Single factor converts adult stem cells into embryonic-like stem cells
The simple recipe scientists earlier discovered for making adult stem cells behave like embryonic-like stem cells just got even simpler. A new report in the 6th February issue of the...
Despite their diversity, pygmies of Western Central Africa share recent common ancestors
Despite the great cultural, physical, and genetic diversity found amongst the numerous West Central African human populations that are collectively designated as 'Pygmies,' a report published online on 5th February...
UPI NewsTrack Health and Science News
NASA satellite launch is again postponed … RNA enzyme might inhibit herpes virus … Nanoparticle system scans opaque objects … A new obesity drug target is possible ... Health/Science news...
Study Finds Oldest Trees Grow Slowest - Even as Youngsters
(PhysOrg.com) -- A newly published study has found that the oldest trees in the forest also grow the slowest - and they likely aren`t the prettiest.
Blue the hue of creativity? Red for detail?
WASHINGTON (AP) -- We learn from toddlerhood that red means danger - so should we use red ink for medication warnings? And if blue signals the...
A natural, alternative insect repellent to DEET
Isolongifolenone, a natural compound found in the Tauroniro tree (Humiria balsamifera) of South America, has been found to effectively deter biting of mosquitoes and to repel ticks, both of which...
Ants tricked into raising butterflies
Butterflies can seem friendly and harmless. But at least one type has learned to raise its young as parasites, tricking ants into feeding it and giving special treatment.
Cows with names make more milk
Dairy cows face a lot of pressure. Every day, month after month, a lactating cow is expected to let down her milk under the expectant eyes of a farmer whose...
Assisted human reproduction: regulating and treating conception problems
The federal government enacted legislation in March 2004 banning human cloning, rent-a-womb contracts and the sale of human eggs and sperm - its most comprehensive attempt to regulate assisted human...
SEA LIFE PHOTOS: Five New Pygmy Seahorse Species Found
Five new species of the tiny pygmy seahorse have been found in a flurry of recent discoveries. All are less than an inch (2.5 centimeters) tall.