To localize sounds, particularly low-frequency sounds, mammals must perceive minimal differences in the timing of signal reception between the two ears. Researchers now describe a unique feature of the neurons responsible for this task.
The role of microglial cells in neurodegenerative disease is not fully understood. But new research results suggest that stimulation of this arm of the immune system might well delay the onset of such disorders.
23.93% of all adolescents in Austria are currently suffering from a mental health problem, over a third of all adolescents have had a mental health problem at some stage in their lives. That is the central finding of the first Austria-wide epidemiological study into the prevalence of mental health problems in Austria.
Subgroups of tuberculosis-causing bacteria can persist even when antibiotics wipe out most of the population. The need to eliminate these persistent subpopulations is one reason why TB treatment regimens are so lengthy. Now, NIAID-supported researchers have shown that a single protein allows mycobacteria to generate diverse populations that can avoid TB drugs. The protein may be a target for intervention; blocking it might result in less mycobacterial diversity and shorten TB treatment courses.
A new study addresses the incomplete understanding of why males are more criminal than females by examining gender differences in biological functioning and behavior. It is the first study to demonstrate that men’s lower resting heart rate partly explains the higher rate of criminal offending.
Square watermelons, star- and heart-shaped cucumbers, and even Buddha-shaped pears can be found in some grocery store produce bins. Who buys them? And why? A recent study found younger consumers with an eye for adventure are more likely to purchase these avant-garde fruits.
A sperm tail utilizes interconnected elastic springs to transmit mechanical information to distant parts of the tail, helping it to bend and ultimately swim towards an egg, scientists have discovered.
