Life
We summarize the week's scientific breakthroughs every Thursday.
- Life
Genome of a fruit besieged
The banana genome has been unpeeled. The genetic makeup of Musa acuminata, a fertile banana species that gave rise to the seedless Cavendish and other clonal varieties people eat today, sheds light on the plant’s evolutionary history and ripening process. This information may also help researchers boost the crop’s resistance to fungal and viral pathogens […]
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- Chemistry
Terminator termites have unique technique
Age intensifies likelihood of workers turning into tiny suicide bombers.
- Humans
Maiden shows signs of TB-like infection
Molecular analysis yields clues about the immune system activity of a probable sacrificial victim.
- Life
Polar bears’ ancient roots pushed way back
Full genetic blueprints suggest the animals split from brown bears millions of years ago.
- Animals
Tiny creature, giant sperm
Giant sperm appear in various other species, including some flatworms, beetles and a fruit fly species, Drosophila bifurca, with sperm nearly 6 centimeters long.
- Life
Fake jellyfish so real it even swims
Constructed of silicone and heart cells, medusoid moves like the real thing.
- Life
Little animals spread sperm for smelly mosses
Sex-specific odors may entice springtails to kick off fertilization.
- Math
Test decodes dolphins’ math skills
Dolphins could use mental math to locate prey in clouds of bubbles.
- Life
Study shows where identical twins part ways
By birth, genetic doubles are already using their DNA differently.
- Life
Insulin may be Big Antler hormone
Extra sensitivity to the hormone in certain developing tissues might give animals their oversized weapons and ornaments.
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