Biology

Sensing the sea: Researching the adaptations of starfish

Of all species living in marine environments on Earth, the relatively inconspicuous starfish may appear to live a simple existence on the seafloor. However, these organisms demonstrate striking abilities to perceive their environment, one of many characteristics that has led to their success as a species. This success is evident in their diversity — there […]

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The bone experts

Mainstream media can’t seem to get enough of classic true crime. New shows constantly attempt to showcase crime from a unique angle in order to keep audiences engaged: how can they make their show original and compelling in comparison to countless others? Some networks turn to highlighting a subspecialty of crime that hasn’t historically been

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Microbe memory: How biofilms can store information

Can microbes form memories? Earlier this year, researchers at the University of California San Diego demonstrated that, yes, certain bacteria can remember complex patterns. After exposing a biofilm of Bacillus subtilis to blue light stimulation, researchers observed intermembrane potassium ion channels change shape. This change caused potassium ions to be released from the cell, leaving

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Music as a form of treatment for Alzheimer’s patients

For hundreds of years, music has provided humans with a means to enjoy themselves and reduce their stress. Whether it is the serenading melodies of jazz or the flashy beats of hip-hop, music has provided people with a type of natural mood enhancer. Recently, medical research has suggested that music can significantly help people with

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Where it all began: An Account of the competing theories about the origin of life on Earth

All cells come from pre-existing ones, an important aspect of cell theory that is universally accepted by biologists today. But where did that first cell come from? By what process did the first cells appear, and how do they differ from cells now? Understanding these ancient life forms on Earth will inform researchers where else

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Genes across continents: Investigating genetic diversity in Arabian horses

Arabian horses are often considered the most beautiful horse in the world, distinguished by their dish-shaped face, large eyes, and high tail. They originated in the Middle East over 2,000 years ago, and they are capable of enduring heat and traveling long distances. Whether by accident or by strategic breeding, many European horses contain traces

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A dog’s memory

When it comes to teaching children, there are multiple different styles of learning, including visual, auditory, and kinesthetic. In other words, kids learn best from either what they see, hear, or do, respectively. To try and encompass these different styles, teachers and parents attempt to teach using activities that focus on all three methods. When

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