Latest science news in Biology & Nature
First butterflies in space emerge
Two butterflies are trying to get their bearings in near zero gravity after emerging on the International Space Station, the first time butterflies have survived the pupal stage in orbit.
Elephant seals take naps while diving
(PhysOrg.com) -- A new study may have solved the long-standing question of how elephants sleep during their long migrations at sea, when they can be away from land for up...
Researcher Discovers Key To Vital DNA, Protein Interaction
A plant pathology scientist was researching the molecular basis of bacterial diseases of rice when he discovered how a group of proteins from plant pathogenic bacteria interact with DNA in...
New Neurons Make Room for New Memories
Rodent study hints at a surprising role for newly born neurons in the adult hippocampus [Read more]
Unravelling The Pathology Of Dementia
Combination therapies to tackle multiple changes in the brain may be needed to combat the growing problem of dementia in aging societies, according to a new study.
Human movement critical in dengue spread
RIO DE JANEIRO, Nov. 11 (UPI) -- Brazilian researchers say they've determined population movement is a key factor in the spread of the dengue virus in Rio de Janeiro.
New Zealand shark bite turns into surprise octuplet Caesarean
A pregnant shark at a New Zealand aquarium was bitten by another shark, unexpectedly releasing four baby sharks as stunned visitors watched.
Hundreds Of Genes Distinguish Patients Likely To Survive Advanced Melanoma
Some patients can live for years with melanoma that has spread beyond the skin to other organs. Now it may be possible to identify which patients are more likely to...
British Academy To Look Into Ethics of Human-Animal Genetic Hybrids
But are they locking the barn door after the horse-men have cantered out? When former President Bush mentioned human-animal hybrids during a State of the Union speech in 2006, most of the audience...
UCSD discovery allows scientists for the first time to experimentally annotate genomes
Over the last 20 years, the sequencing of the human genome, along with related organisms, has represented one of the largest scientific endeavours in the history of mankind. The information collected from genome...
What is the meaning of 'one'?
Rice University evolutionary biologists David Queller and Joan Strassmann argue in a new paper that high cooperation and low conflict between components, from the genetic level on up, give a...
Studies show marine reserves can be an effective tool for managing fisheries
Studies conducted in California and elsewhere provide support for the use of marine reserves as a tool for managing fisheries and protecting marine habitats, according to biologists at the University...
The bizarre lives of bone-eating worms
The females of the recently discovered Osedax marine worms feast on submerged bones via a complex relationship with symbiotic bacteria, and they are turning out to be far more diverse...
Penis tissue replaced in the lab
Tissue created in a laboratory has been used to completely replace the erectile tissue of the penis in animals.
Amyloid Beta Protein Gets Bum Rap
While too much amyloid beta protein in the brain is linked to the development of Alzheimer's disease, not enough of the protein in healthy brains can cause learning problems and...
New Light On The SARS Virus
Using novel techniques, a Dutch researcher has cast new light on the replication of coronaviruses, a family of viruses including the cause of SARS. He has shown, using luminescent viruses,...
A Hunt for Seeds to Save Species, Perhaps by Helping Them Move
Is it wise or foolish to assist with the migration of plants? Some experts see unintended consequences and others say it is worth the risk.
Unlocking Mysteries Of The Brain With PET
Inflammatory response of brain cells -- as indicated by a molecular imaging technique -- could tell researchers more about why certain neurologic disorders, such as migraine headaches and psychosis in...
Why Do Animals, Especially Males, Have So Many Different Colors?
Why do so many animal species -- including fish, birds and insects -- display such rich diversity in coloration and other traits? New research offers an answer.
Basics: Pigs Prove to Be Smart, if Not Vain
Recent discoveries from the nascent study of pig cognition offered evidence that pigs were quick learners, slow to forget and similar to humans in many ways.
Scientists successfully reprogram blood cells
Researchers have transplanted genetically modified hematopoietic stem cells into mice so that their developing red blood cells produce a critical lysosomal enzyme -preventing or reducing organ and central nervous system...
Study uncovers new fact of coral spawning
MELBOURNE, Fla., Nov. 9 (UPI) -- U.S. scientists say they have determined why corals spawn for just a few nights in some locations, but elsewhere the spawning continues for...
African academies show how science can save lives
First joint report highlights importance of African scientists' advice to policy-makers.
Cultured pearls produced from queen conch
BOCA RATON, Fla., Nov. 9 (UPI) -- U.S. scientists say they have, for the first time, produced beaded and non-beaded cultured pearls from the queen conch (Strombus gigas).
Notion That Amputee Runners Gain Advantage From Protheses Further Disputed
A new study shows that amputees who use running-specific prosthetic legs have no performance advantage over counterparts who use their biological legs.
Dolphins blamed for dead porpoises
SALINAS, Calif., Nov. 9 (UPI) -- Bottlenose dolphins are likely responsible for the growing number of dead porpoises appearing on California beaches, marine biologists said.
Researchers complete draft genome sequence for cassava
A team of academic, government and industry researchers has completed a first draft of the cassava (Manihot esculenta) genome. The project is an important first step in accelerating the pace...
Self-cleaning silicone gel insect wings
Researchers in Australia and the UK are flying the idea that insect wings could act as a model for making self-cleaning, frictionless, and superhydrophobic materials. They discuss the latest developments...