Perpetual Learning
When we hear about a cardiac arrest, it’s often a moment of shock and concern. We know it’s a critical medical emergency where the heart suddenly stops beating. But beyond the immediate medical implications, a question that often arises is whether the person experiencing it feels pain. Let’s dive into what the science tells us … Read more
Hey everyone! Starting Bio 101 can feel like trying to read a foreign language written in code, right? Especially when you’re staring at lecture slides packed with terms like “mitochondria” and “photosynthesis.” I remember my own undergraduate days, feeling completely overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information in introductory science courses. Even with my background … Read more
Did you know that some ant queens are breaking the fundamental rules of biology? It sounds like science fiction, but a recent discovery shows an ant queen producing male offspring that are a different species than her own. This is a mind-bending concept that challenges our understanding of reproduction and evolution. A Biological Anomaly Traditionally, … Read more
The Fascinating Biology of Brainworms: What RFK Jr.’s Diagnosis Could Teach Us Today, I want to talk about something that sounds like it belongs in a science fiction movie, but is a very real, albeit rare, medical condition: neurocysticercosis. You might have heard this term linked to a recent diagnosis. While I’m not here to … Read more
Hey everyone! Today, let’s dive into a common misconception that pops up in science conversations: the idea that insects aren’t animals. It’s easy to see why some people might think that. Insects are so different from us, with their exoskeletons, multiple legs, and way of moving through the world. But from a biological standpoint, they … Read more
It’s easy to get confused when talking about brain diseases. We hear about proteins misfolding, spreading through the brain, and causing serious problems. Two conditions that often get lumped together in discussions are Alzheimer’s disease and prion diseases. But here’s the thing: while both involve protein issues, they are distinct conditions with different causes and … Read more
Did you know that the very building blocks of life might have gotten their start thanks to some straightforward chemistry? A recent study, highlighted by The Washington Post, is diving into this fascinating question, and it’s something that really sparks my scientific curiosity. As someone with a background in atmospheric science and a PhD from … Read more
Did you know that some foods are perfectly safe for our canine companions but can be downright toxic for us humans? It sounds a little wild, right? But this is actually a fascinating glimpse into the incredible diversity of biology and biochemistry across species. It all comes down to the subtle, and sometimes not-so-subtle, differences … Read more
Sometimes, the most profound scientific questions come from the most unexpected places. Today, my 7-year-old asked me, “Mom, what makes us move? What’s inside us that makes everything work?” It’s a question that, at its core, gets right to the heart of biology. It’s easy to get lost in the complexities of organs and systems, … Read more
Did you know that some animals have a built-in biological superpower? Groundbreaking research has revealed that bearded dragons, those fascinating reptiles from Australia, can actually switch their sex! It’s not science fiction; it’s a complex biological process that scientists are finally starting to understand. The Science Behind the Switch For a long time, we’ve understood … Read more