What makes humans more complex than plants or bacteria? Surprisingly, it’s not how much DNA we have, but rather how much of our DNA doesn’t encode for protein – known as the non-coding genome.
Continue ReadingFinding an exoplanet using one of the most common methods is pretty easy in theory. But be warned, it’s much harder in practice than it sounds.
Continue ReadingNatural gas production through hydraulic fracturing (‘fracking’) has boomed in the past decade in the United States due to an increase in permits for gas exploration and a decrease in prices which drives consumer demand, a concerning trend for human health and the environment.
Continue ReadingThe Maillard reaction that takes place in nearly all of food preparation.
Continue ReadingHow does the experience of food insecurity relate to health? Learn why food access is considered an up and coming social determinant of health.
Continue ReadingBiomedical research currently relies on single-use plastics but how often do we actually consider the effects of that reliance?
Continue ReadingScientists in Switzerland found that something unexpected may help your body fight against the flu virus this season, eating more fiber.
Continue ReadingJust in time for Halloween, join Jenna Beam in an exploration of what causes Rick and Morty – I mean rigor mortis.
Continue ReadingHave you ever wondered why antioxidants have become a staple ingredient in skincare and cosmetics? Read more to learn about how antioxidants protect your skin from premature aging, and how scientist are making these formulations better with nanotechnology.
Continue ReadingIn trying to improve human health, research has left out a huge portion of humanity. This bias doesn’t just hurt women, it impedes the progress of medicine.
Continue ReadingWe eat (or drink) them all the time, but what about in the lab? For scientists, yeast has been an invaluable tool for making biological discoveries.
Continue ReadingScientists discovered that a group of dinosaurs with very long necks called sauropods likely had beaks, rather than the previously accepted “lizard-like” face.
Continue ReadingSeminal research finds that health and social problems are worse when inequality is high.
Continue ReadingHormonal birth control has been controversial for years, but has lately been put through the ringer. Here we delve into the biology behind the menstrual cycle, what hormonal birth control really is, and whether or not you should cleanse your body from it.
Continue ReadingMy heart flutters when I submit a paper. My breathing momentarily halts while waiting for highly anticipated results. My palms feel sweaty awaiting questions at conferences during poster presentations. I…
Continue ReadingThe latest IPCC report just came out last month, and it does not bode well for the future of our planet. In light of this, why do so many people actively deny global warming and what can we do about it?
Continue ReadingWaterbears have survived 5 mass extinction events on earth and don’t seem to be going anywhere soon. How do they survive and what does that mean for humans?
Continue ReadingApproximately 1 out of 5 deaths worldwide is due to poor nutrition, and doctors are not adequately trained to counsel their patients on improving their nutrition to ward off disease.
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