From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes
- Genetics
Scientists find genes that make some kids’ hair uncombable
Scientists have pinpointed three genes that cause ‘uncombable hair syndrome’ in some kids.
- Animals
How birds know what not to tweet
How do birds perfect their pitches? The chemical dopamine spikes when they sing right, and dips when they drop a note, new data show.
- Brain
Explainer: What is dopamine?
Dopamine is a chemical messenger that carries signals between brain cells. It also gets blamed for addiction. And a shortage of it gets blamed for symptoms of diseases such as Parkinson’s.
- Brain
Explainer: What is neurotransmission?
When brain cells need to pass messages to one another, they use chemicals called neurotransmitters. This sharing of chemical secrets is known as neurotransmission.
- Health & Medicine
Scientists Say: Bruxism
Some people clench their jaw when their stressed. People who do it a lot may have bruxism.
- Health & Medicine
Seven tips for staying safe in frigid weather
Maps? Check. Water? Check. Insulating clothes? Check. Here’s the checklist to consult before planning to trek out in the frigid cold.
- Health & Medicine
Snot Science: A snotty setup
We’ve got a video with a snotty experiment. Now we describe how you can do the same test yourself. Try it!
- Health & Medicine
Snot Science: Results are nothing to sneeze at
We tested a lot of snot, but now we need to figure out what our data mean. Here’s how to group and analyze our data.
- Health & Medicine
Scientists Say: Tinnitus
Ever had ringing in your ears? Tinnitus is a condition in which you hear a persistent sound that isn’t there.
- Genetics
World’s tallest corn towers nearly 14 meters
Short nights and a genetic tweak helped novel corn reach record heights.
- Health & Medicine
Scientists Say: Insulin
This chemical is a lifesaver. It helps our bodies use the sugars from our food, and without it, people develop diabetes.
- Health & Medicine
Outdoor time is good for your eyes
Being outdoors exposes children to bright light that can be good for their eyes. Spending just one extra daylight hour outdoors each week can substantially lower their chance of becoming nearsighted, a study finds.
