From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes

  1. Animals

    Analyze This: Cows burp less methane after early-life treatment

    Calves that receive the 14-week treatment belch less of the greenhouse gas, possibly due to shifts in their gut microbes.

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  2. Genetics

    Let’s learn about DNA

    DNA is made of two chemical chains twisted around each other. It stores information that allows cells to grow and function.

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  3. Plants

    Scientists may have finally found how catnip repels insects

    The plant deters mosquitoes and fruit flies by triggering a chemical receptor that, in some animals, senses pain and itch.

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  4. Brain

    Scientists Say: Neuron

    Neurons are the foundational cells in the nervous system. They pass along and process information using electrical signals.

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  5. Health & Medicine

    Teen depression linked to how the brain processes rewards

    Depression in teens alters their brains’ pathways in ways that may put those kids at risk of lifelong mental-health problems — unless they get help.

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  6. Life

    Scientists Say: Egg and sperm

    An egg or a sperm cell contains half of the normal genes an organism needs. They fuse together to form a new individual.

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  7. Microbes

    Some microbial hitchhikers may weaken body’s attack on COVID-19

    New research identifies an altered mix of microbes in the body — ones commonly seen in people with poor diets — that may worsen coronavirus disease.

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  8. Brain

    Active bodies build stronger brains

    Aerobic fitness and physical activity correlate with widespread brain health in adolescents, according to a new imaging study in England.

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  9. Health & Medicine

    Some young adults will volunteer to get COVID-19 for science

    Researchers will soon give some healthy people the new coronavirus. Their young volunteers have agreed to get sick to speed coronavirus research.

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  10. Science & Society

    New technology can get inside your head. Are you ready?

    New technologies aim to listen to — and maybe even change — your brain activity. But just because scientists can do this, should they?

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  11. Animals

    Scientists Say: Organelle

    An organelle is a part of a cell with a particular function. Like organs. But for cells.

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  12. Space

    Space travel may harm health by damaging cells’ powerhouses

    Biochemical changes after going to space suggest that harm to cells’ energy-producing structures, called mitochondria, could explain astronauts’ health issues.

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