Recent news headlines reveal that plants scream in ultrasound when scientists cut their leaves. We can't hear these sounds, but they're there, and we can record them. Media erroneously reported that as beyond doubt proof that plants, just like animals, communicate through sounds. They said that plants warn each other about danger through ultrasound screams and, most … [Read more...] about Do plants communicate distress through ultrasound screams?
Physiology
Four reasons why water is essential for life
Ever since I was a child, I've been fascinated by scientific discoveries. I remember reading a special article in our local newspaper about scientists searching for life on Mars. To my disappointment, they weren't seeking little green men; instead, they were hunting for water. Nearly 30 years later, their search continues. Why is water so important? The primary reason is … [Read more...] about Four reasons why water is essential for life
Are we really more bacteria than human?
Have you ever heard that the human body has fewer cells than the number of bacteria that lives inside their guts? Thus you, a human being, are more bacteria than yourself. However, despite bacteria's tremendous impact on our lives, the statement isn't accurate. In this article, I will explain why. That is indeed true that our gut bacteria are more numerous than our own … [Read more...] about Are we really more bacteria than human?
What is the difference between good and bad cholesterol?
You may have heard that the disease atherosclerosis, which is among the leading causes of death in the western world, is a consequence of high cholesterol. And not just any to them: specifically, bad cholesterol. But what does this actually mean? What are good and bad cholesterol, and how do they differ? Let's find out! Too long; didn't read: Bad cholesterol is a … [Read more...] about What is the difference between good and bad cholesterol?
What are proteins?
I often mention in my articles how the body makes proteins, how proteins transport cholesterol, or how DNA codes for proteins. You also might know from food packaging and sports drink advertisements that proteins are an essential part of your diet and you need them badly. This is all true, but do you know what proteins actually are? Let's zoom in on them. In a … [Read more...] about What are proteins?
How caffeine makes us feel energized
Coffee is a wonderful drink that works magic on our bodies and also positively affects some pollinators. When it first arrived in Europe, its popularity spread like wildfire, and Europeans rapidly switched from being heavy alcohol abusers to being caffeine abusers. While any kind of substance abuse is not ideal, a society jazzed up on stimulating caffeine instead of depressing … [Read more...] about How caffeine makes us feel energized