Stanford scientists have discovered a completely new type of microbe in the human microbiome, which they call ObelisksDepositphotosTrillions of microbes, spanning bacteria, viruses, fungi, and more, inhabit our bodies. Recently, Stanford researchers unearthed a fresh category of biological entities within us, dubbing them "Obelisks" with an air of mystery.The expansive microbiome we harbor continues...
A new molecule called A485 has been found to boost levels of white blood cells, which can help clear out infectionsDepositphotosWhite blood cells play a crucial role as immune system defenders, but their levels can be diminished by health conditions or treatments such as chemotherapy. Researchers at Yale have identified a molecule that, when...
Plant biology professor James Dalling and colleagues discovered that some tree ferns recycle their dead fronds into rootsFred ZwickyTypically, when a fern's leaf fronds die, the plant no longer benefits from them. However, the Cyathea rojasiana fern is an exception. A scientist has identified that its expired fronds transform into "zombie leaves" that absorb...
Now you see it: Like most animals, owl vision has evolved for survival and they perceive the world around them very differently to how humans do. Credit: PixaobayIt's simple to overlook that the majority of animals perceive the world differently from humans. In reality, due to their ability to see infrared and ultraviolet light,...
Credit: SechatAccording to Greek mythology, the titan Prometheus faced Zeus's wrath for bestowing fire upon humanity. Chained and tormented by an eagle devouring his liver daily, the myth raises questions about the liver's regenerative abilities. Delving into reality, this article examines the liver, its susceptibility to alcohol, and its capacity for self-repair.The Liver: Vital...
Humans interbred with Neanderthals and spread DNA across the world. Credit: DepositphotosNeanderthal DNA offered evolutionary advantages during environmental adaptation, yet it also introduced drawbacks, with nicotine addiction being one of the adverse effects associated with certain genesGenetic experts assert that six key indicators can reveal the presence of Neanderthal DNA.Approximately two percent of our...
Lord Howe Island Stick Insect (Dryococelus australis) (Zoos Victoria)Just 20 to 30 'tree lobsters' are left in their natural habitat, and this vulnerable group was found again in 2001, 80 years after being thought extinct.The wild Lord Howe Island stick insects (Dryococelus australis) currently cling to survival on Ball's Pyramid, a nearly vertical volcanic outcrop.San...
Credit: PexelsThe mystery of how living organism originated from non-living matter is still one of the most profound puzzles in science. Despite various theories, a definitive explanation remains elusive, which is not surprising given that these events took place three to four billion years ago in vastly different conditions on Earth.Justifying hypotheses with experimental...
An artist's impression of Tyrannosaurus mcraeensis, a new species closely related to T. rexSergey KrasovskiyFor sophisticated 10-year-olds looking to stand out, they now have a fresh dinosaur name to flaunt as their favorite – Tyrannosaurus mcraeensis. This recently identified species seems to be less evolved than its well-known relative, but it's equally large and intimidating.It's understandable...
The research indicates a new perspective on intra-person fingerprints. Credit: Unsplash.Fingerprint analysis, a cornerstone in forensic and security contexts, has long relied on fingerprint patterns' perceived uniqueness and permanence. However, groundbreaking research from Columbia University introduces a paradigm shift, challenging the conventional understanding of intra-person fingerprint distinctiveness.Challenging Conventional WisdomThe uniqueness of fingerprints, considered...
