After cases spiked to 6,000, the Italian government worked to limit travel and shut down schools. Internationally, cases have surpassed 100,000 (over 500 in the U.S.). Physicians are finding that CT scans and medications to treat other viral infections could bear some efficacy.
4 types of synthetic biology: CAR T-Cell (combine CAR / T-cell to target and fight cancer), Conjugate Therapy (combine antibody with chemotherapy), RNA therapeutic (combine RNA to interfere with gene function), Gene therapy (DNA inside of a virus used to deliver DNA into cells)
Researchers from Osaka University conducted a groundbreaking heart transplant. They extracted mature cells, re-programmed them into a pluripotent state, and induced heart muscle cell development. These new cells were transplanted to aid the patient’s degenerative condition!
Bats are habitually mistaken for rodents, but in fact they are not even remotely related to rodents! They belong to their own classification: Chiroptera. This translates to “hand-wing.”
The merger between T-Mobile and Sprint has received a near-final approval, virtually clearing the path for the transaction. After discussions for two years and a win over pushback from a group of state attorneys general, the merger now requires one judge and one panel review.
Coronaviruses were first identified in the mid-1960’s, and named for their crown-like structure. 7 strains affect humans. This strain originated in Wuhan, China, and is suggested to have been derived from bats with snakes acting as an intermediary. Effects manifest as respiratory
Usually the flu alone is not the primary source of mortality in those with the virus. The combination of influenza with an infection makes the condition more lethal. This is because the immune system begins to attack infected cells, opening up new areas for the bacteria to invade
Cats can orient themselves as they fall in order to land on their feet. This is because they have a flexible backbone and no functional collarbone. Once it begins falling, it rotates its head, arches its back, and positions its front & back legs to bear the impact of its weight!
The atom itself is nearly 50,000 times larger than the nucleus. This means that if you were to stand in the middle of a baseball stadium and consider this the atom, the nucleus would be the size of a marble in your hand!
Rotenone, used as a pesticide/insecticide for organic foods, can halt cellular respiration. It achieves this through prevention of the transfer of electrons during the process of oxidative phosphorylation. This can disrupt oxygen uptake and energy production for the cells!
Mitochondria and their respective DNA is inherited maternally. Which implies that the egg is the gamete responsible for this donation to the embryo. This also means mitochondrial-associated diseases are also passed down from the biological mother!
Cellular processes produce free radicals that are reactive and can be damaging if not properly reduced. An example is the oxygen produced in oxidative phosphorylation that is normally reduced. These oxidants can damage our genomes by DNA cleavage alongside other complications!
The photovoltaic cells in solar panels allow particles of light called photons eject electrons from atoms and generate direct current electricity. The electricity is converted from direct current to alternating current which powers your home!
The salt found in bodies of water is primarily derived from rocks. Rain is slightly acidic due to environmental CO2. When this comes in contact with rock, it can cause erosion which produces salts. These salts then flow into rivers and streams to be deposited into the oceans.
Heterochromia is when irises of an organism are different colors. It is determined by melanin. More melanin leads to darker eyes while less leads to lighter eyes. It is often not harmful, does not impact eyesight, and is usually inherited/results from genetic mutation.
Saturated fats are solid at room temperature whereas unsaturated fats take a liquid form. Replacing saturated with unsaturated fats has been shown to reduce the risk of high cholesterol, heart disease, and high blood pressure even. Check out our Instagram for the chemistry!
Oddly enough, roses are classified under the same crop family as pears and apples. Their petals are in fact edible and have been incorporated into many assorted desserts!
Usually arthritis is something that is associated with the aging process and elderly people. However arthritis can impact individuals of all age groups. About 54 million adults have arthritis while almost 300,000 babies and children have also been diagnosed with it!