A zebrafish embryo. (Dr. Deodatta Gajbhiye)Fish embryos in many species can control their hatching timing, effectively selecting their own birthdays. A study from Hebrew University of Jerusalem has uncovered the chemical and biological processes enabling this precise control, showing how embryos align their hatching with optimal environmental conditions.Researchers focused on zebrafish (Danio rerio) and discovered...
Skeletal muscle fibers (multinucleated cells) with their nerve connections. (Ed Reschke/Stone/Getty Images)We all wish for a longer life—at least, I know I do—but what about ensuring that we enjoy good health during the time we have?Over the past century, human life expectancy has significantly increased for several reasons, particularly advances in sanitation, public health, nutrition,...
The sensors are attached to the underside of the leaves (right) in order to ensure that the plant still receives enough sunlightKohzuma and MiyamotoMonitoring crop health from aerial images has its limits, as they can only provide a broad overview. Enter a groundbreaking spectral sensor designed to attach directly to the underside of individual...
Footage of the explosion, slowed down 400 times Thorogood, C. et al/CC By 4.0"Ballistic seed dispersal" is a rare phenomenon in the plant world, and for good reason, as demonstrated by the squirting cucumber's impressive abilities. Rather than relying on external factors like wind or animals, this cucumber takes matters into its own hands, launching...
Credit: PixabayGenetic research has revealed that male mosquitoes lose their ability to reproduce when they lose their sense of hearing. This surprising discovery could open new methods to reduce mosquito populations and the diseases they spread.While the high-pitched buzz of a mosquito is highly annoying to humans, especially on warm nights, it is an...
September 22: Pesto manages to make an average-sized king penguin look small Bronwyn Thompson/New AtlasA new viral sensation is taking the spotlight: Pesto, a nine-month-old king penguin chick, whose unusually large size has made him a global star. Hatched from an avocado-sized egg on January 30, 2024, at Sea Life Melbourne, Australia, Pesto now weighs...
Credit: PixabayHave you ever found yourself caught in a flurry of water droplets as a wet dog shook to dry off? Well, it’s not a choice. Scientists have discovered the mechanism that drives dogs—and many other furry mammals—to shake off water with intense vigor. This behavior is involuntary and has fascinating genetic roots.Discovering the...
Image from pixabayAccording to a recent study, human sperm use their slender tails to navigate through thick fluids, appearing to defy Newton's third law of motion. This research also examines the movement patterns of these sex cells alongside single-celled algae.Exploring Non-Reciprocal Interactions in Microscopic SwimmersKenta Ishimoto, a mathematical scientist at Kyoto University, and his...
Credit: PixabayThe Origins of KissingMost of us kiss at some point, whether romantically, with family, friends, or formally. However, the origin of this behavior and how it emerged among humans remain subjects of intense debate among historians and anthropologists. A new theory suggests that the evolutionary loss of body hair could be at the...
Fluorescent microscope image of the animal cells with embedded chloroplasts (magenta)R. Aoki, Y. Inui, Y. Okabe et al. 2024/ Proceedings of the Japan Academy, Series BHybrid Plant-Animal Cells Developed in JapanScientists in Japan have developed hybrid plant-animal cells, allowing animal cells to harness energy from sunlight like plants. This innovation could bring significant benefits...
