Life
We summarize the week's scientific breakthroughs every Thursday.
- Genetics
Sexy male mice have competitive moms
Moms allowed to compete for mates produce sons that make sexy pheromones, live hard and die young. How? Epigenetics.
- Ecosystems
Virus-blocking insects taking over Vietnamese island
Field trial tests mosquitoes that may stop the spread of dengue infection.
- Health & Medicine
Cage temps change tumor growth in mice
Cooler living conditions may influence lab mice's responses to experimental cancer therapies that target the immune system.
- Animals
Mothballs, rubbing alcohol score poorly in tests of DIY bedbug control
Mattress encasement, dry ice in bags, hot clothes dryers do help control infestation.
- Animals
Migration is a deadly time for raptors
For a bird or any other animal that migrates a long distance, it’s sure to face a host of dangers. The story is no different for raptors.
- Life
Thank insects and microbes that we aren’t over our knees in feces
Ever wondered why you’re not drowning in poop? Scientists harnessed the power of citizen science to find the beetles and microbes we can thank for that.
- Humans
Humans’ music and genes may have evolved together
Music may be a tool scientists can use to trace human migrations.
- Neuroscience
The Inconstant Gardener
Microglia, the same immune cells that help sculpt the developing brain, may do damage later in life .
- Health & Medicine
Nicotine withdrawal linked to specific brain cells in mice
A group of cells within one brain region may control the physical symptoms that plague people trying to kick their cigarette addiction.
- Neuroscience
Brain reconstruction hints at dinosaur communication
T. rex and other dinos might have understood complex vocal calls.
- Genetics
Dogs’ origins lie in Europe
First domesticated canines did not live in China or Middle East, a study of mitochondrial DNA finds.
- Neuroscience
Teenagers act impulsively when facing danger
Brain activity may help explain why crime peaks during the teenage years.
