The discovery of the structure of DNA is one of the most important scientific achievements in human history. While Watson and Crick are often credited with this breakthrough, Rosalind Franklin's scientific contributions have been vastly underplayed. Franklin faced sexism and isolation from her colleagues, but she kept working and obtained Photo 51, the most famous x-ray image of DNA. Her calculations led her to the same conclusion as Watson and Crick, but her manuscript was published last, making it look like her experiments just confirmed their breakthrough instead of inspiring it. Franklin's work revolutionized medicine, biology, and agriculture. Learning about her story will not only provide insight into the history of science but also inspire students to pursue their passions regardless of societal barriers.

Watson and Crick are often credited with discovering the structure of DNA, but it was the work of a host of talented scientists, including X-ray crystallographer Rosalind Franklin, that made it possible. Learn about the breakthrough that has led to world-changing advances in biological research and our understanding of inherited diseases. Explore the story of the discovery and the unsung heroes who made it happen.

Scientists have traced the origins of the Black Death, the deadliest pandemic in history, to Central Asia through the study of ancient Y. pestis genomes. The pandemic claimed up to 60% of the population in Europe, the Middle East, and northern Africa during the 14th century. The study's findings shed light on the pandemic's 500-year-long Second Plague Pandemic and its diversification event. The study highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration among historians, archaeologists, and geneticists in resolving big mysteries of our past with unprecedented precision.

Ever heard of umami? It's the mystery taste that adds savouriness to your favorite foods and has been recognized as a basic taste along with sweet, sour, bitter, and salt. Join the Japanese chemist Kikunae Ikeda on his journey of isolating the key amino acid responsible for the taste and revolutionizing the food industry with his discovery.

Can a single cell's physical properties predict how tall a tree can grow? MIT Professor Ming Guo's research in cell mechanics reveals how a cell's physical form can influence the growth of an entire organism, including disease such as cancer. With his interdisciplinary work in physics, mechanical engineering, and cell biology, Guo aims to engineer materials for biomedical applications.

Our ears are as unique as our fingerprints, and they serve a crucial role in our lives. They help us communicate with others, recognize complex emotions, and locate sounds. Even before we are born, our ears are already listening, and after we are born, they become even more useful. The inner workings of the ear heighten the frequencies of the human voice, making listening a more effective way to recognize and decode complex human emotions than looking at facial expressions. Our external ears may not serve us well on a hot day, but they can be an indicator of our health. Moreover, the shape and folds of our ears, and how the brain processes sound waves, help us determine where a sound is coming from. Learning about the fascinating workings of our ears can help us appreciate their importance and how they benefit us intellectually and practically.

Discover the scientist who uncovered the savory fifth taste, umami, and how it's related to the infamous MSG. Learn how umami has become a buzzword in the culinary world, inspiring chefs to create meaty flavors in meatless dishes.

Chemical reactions are essential to life and the world around us. From the simple process of combustion to the complex reactions that occur in living organisms, chemical reactions are constantly happening all around us. But have you ever wondered what happens on a molecular level during a chemical reaction? In this write-up, we will investigate the dynamics of chemical reactions and explore the fascinating world of molecules in motion. At the heart of every chemical reaction are the molecules involved. Molecules are constantly in motion, vibrating and colliding with one another. During a chemical reaction, the atoms in these molecules rearrange themselves to form new substances. This rearrangement is driven by the energy released or absorbed during the reaction. Chemical reactions can be classified based on the types of molecules involved and the way in which the atoms rearrange themselves. For example, in an oxidation-reduction reaction, one molecule loses electrons while another gains electrons. In an acid-base reaction, a proton (H+) is transferred from one molecule to another. One of the key factors that influence the dynamics of a chemical reaction is the activation energy. This is the minimum amount of energy required for a reaction to occur. Once the activation energy is overcome, the reaction can proceed spontaneously. The rate at which a reaction proceeds is also affected by other factors such as temperature, concentration, and the presence of a catalyst. Over the years, many leading scientists have made significant contributions to our understanding of chemical reactions. For example, in the early 20th century, Max Bodenstein developed the concept of reaction rates and showed that chemical reactions could be treated quantitatively. Later, Linus Pauling developed the concept of electronegativity, which explains how atoms bond to one another. In conclusion, the dynamics of chemical reactions and the motion of molecules are fundamental to our understanding of the world around us. By exploring this topic further, students can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity and beauty of the chemical world.

Do you ever wonder why orange juice tastes so bad after brushing your teeth? It turns out that our taste buds, which are made up of taste receptor cells, are responsible for identifying different tastes like sweet, bitter, and savory. Toothpaste contains Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS), which creates foam while brushing and temporarily gets rid of the molecules that block our bitter receptors. This makes the receptor much more sensitive to bitter flavors, causing that awful taste. However, taste isn't just affected by our receptors. Temperature, texture, and smell can change what we sense too. Learning about the science of taste can help you understand why some foods taste the way they do and how to enhance your dining experience. So, next time you have OJ after brushing, try plugging your nose or go for a coffee or Bloody Mary instead.

Are you curious about the way your brain interprets the world around you? The world we see is only a tiny fraction of the electromagnetic spectrum, and it is our brain that processes and interprets the signals sent from the outside world. By learning about the visible light spectrum, the cone cells in your eyes and how your brain perceives color, you can unlock a new level of understanding about the world around you. Learning about these concepts can enhance your intellectual curiosity and deepen your appreciation of the practical applications of science and technology. You may also discover new ways to understand and enjoy art, design, and photography.

Cells are the fundamental units of life, driven by the forces of the universe, and are impossible machines. They are biological robots that follow their programming, which has evolved over billions of years. Your cells are mostly filled with water molecules and proteins, which are the dead things that make life happen. Cells speak the language of life, which is made up of proteins that are formed from amino acids. Amino acids are the alphabet of the language of life, and proteins are the words that form sentences called biological pathways. The language of life is complex, and mindless cells speak it through DNA, which contains instructions, genes, and building manuals for all the proteins your cells need to function. Understanding the language of life can help you appreciate the amazing complexity of cells and their role in keeping you alive.

Umami, the savory essence found in a variety of foods, was only recently recognized as the fifth fundamental human taste. Scientists have now discovered how glutamate, the chemical responsible for umami taste, activates nerves on the tongue and how inosinate and guanylate can enhance its flavor. Learn how this "Venus flytrap" mechanism works and why a good Japanese broth contains both seaweed and dried fish flakes. Discover the truth behind MSG and why it's not as bad as some may think.

Are you fascinated by the inner workings of the criminal mind? Do you have a keen eye for detail and a passion for science? Then studying Forensic Science at university level might be the perfect fit for you! Forensic Science is the application of scientific principles and techniques to the investigation of crimes and legal disputes. It incorporates a wide range of disciplines, including biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, to help solve complex criminal cases. One of the most appealing aspects of studying Forensic Science is the opportunity to work on real-life cases. From analyzing DNA evidence to reconstructing crime scenes, Forensic Scientists play a crucial role in the criminal justice system. For example, Forensic Scientists were instrumental in identifying the remains of victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, using cutting-edge DNA analysis techniques. The field of Forensic Science is constantly evolving, with new research and innovations being made all the time. One of the most exciting recent developments is the use of forensic entomology to determine the time of death in murder cases. This involves studying the life cycles of insects found on a body to estimate how long it has been since the person died. At the undergraduate level, students typically take modules in areas such as forensic biology, chemistry, and toxicology. They may also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as digital forensics or forensic anthropology. Graduates of Forensic Science programs can go on to work in a variety of roles, including crime scene investigator, forensic analyst, or forensic psychologist. There is a wide range of potential employers for Forensic Scientists, including law enforcement agencies, government agencies, and private forensic laboratories. Some notable examples include the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the United States, the Forensic Science Laboratory in India, and the Forensic Science Service in the United Kingdom. To succeed in Forensic Science, students should have a strong background in science and mathematics, as well as excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. They should also have a keen attention to detail and the ability to work well under pressure. If you're interested in pursuing a career in Forensic Science, there's never been a better time to get started. With its combination of science, technology, and real-world application, it's a field that offers endless opportunities for discovery and innovation.

Did you know that low concentrations of chloride can produce a sweet taste sensation? Scientists from Okayama University in Japan have discovered a new mechanism for detecting chloride ions in taste buds, shedding light on how we perceive taste. Using mice models and structural biology methods, they found that chloride ions activate sweet receptors, similar to other taste substances. This study could lead to a better understanding of taste perception in organisms.

As a student, you might have wondered why your experiments didn't go as planned, or you struggled to find answers to your scientific questions. Here's where the scientific method comes in! The scientific method is a step-by-step process used to investigate and solve problems. By following the six steps - ask, research, form a hypothesis, experiment, analyze, and conclude - you can find solutions to your problems and answer your scientific queries. Learning the scientific method not only helps you solve everyday problems but also enhances your critical thinking and analytical skills, which can benefit you in your academic and personal life. Try it out and unleash your inner scientist!

Water is one of the most fascinating substances in the universe. Every molecule of water on Earth has existed for billions of years, cycling through rocks, air, animals, and plants. Water doesn't follow the normal rules of chemistry, expanding when it freezes and floating on itself, enabling complex life to survive on our planet. Hot water freezes faster than cold, and water molecules can float upwards, against the force of gravity. This strange behavior has been very useful, allowing oxygen and nutrients to reach the edges of our brain and plants to move water from deep below the ground to nourish their leaves. Our solar system is drowning in water, and where there's water, there could be life. Learning about the properties of water can help students appreciate the remarkable nature of this colorless, featureless, and tasteless substance that breaks so many rules of chemistry.

Learning about the chemistry of onions may not seem like the most exciting academic topic, but it can help you understand how things work in the world around you. When you chop an onion, you're changing its chemistry and releasing a gas that causes your eyes to water. You can slow down the onion's enzymes by storing it in the fridge or boiling it briefly, or you can wear goggles or sunglasses while cutting it. Scientists are even working on creating tear-free onions through genetic modification and traditional plant breeding. Learning about the chemistry of onions can help you appreciate the complexities of the natural world and give you practical skills for your everyday life.

Have you ever wondered how some people seem to effortlessly come up with creative ideas while others struggle to think outside the box? It turns out that there is a scientific explanation behind this phenomenon. The field of neuroscience has been studying the brain's creative processes, and the findings are fascinating. First, let's define creativity. It's not just about making art or music. Creativity is the ability to generate original and useful ideas. It involves thinking divergently, which means thinking beyond what is obvious and exploring many possible solutions to a problem. So, how does the brain generate creative ideas? One theory is that the brain has a default mode network, which is a set of brain regions that become active when the mind is at rest. This network allows the brain to make connections between seemingly unrelated ideas, leading to creative insights. Another theory is that creative thinking is linked to the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for executive functions such as planning and decision-making. Studies have found that the prefrontal cortex is more active when people are engaged in creative thinking. In addition, research has shown that certain chemicals in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, play a role in creativity. These chemicals are released when the brain is in a state of arousal, such as during a challenging task or a new experience. Leading academics in the field of neuroscience of creativity include Dr. Rex Jung, who studies the brain basis of creativity and Dr. Mark Beeman, who focuses on insight and creative problem-solving. Innovations in the field include fMRI scans and EEGs, which allow researchers to see the brain in action during creative tasks. In conclusion, the science of creativity is an exciting and rapidly evolving field. By exploring this topic, you can not only improve your own creative abilities but also gain a deeper understanding of the human brain and what makes us unique as a species. So go ahead, unleash your creative brain!

Have you ever wondered how we know how old something is? For trees, we count the rings, and for people, we ask for their birth certificate. But what about fossils? Well, fossils have their own internal clock, and scientists can read it by looking at the ratio of two different types of carbon atoms. Carbon dating works for fossils up to about 60,000 years old, and by measuring the ratio of carbon 14 to carbon 12, we can determine how many thousands of years have passed since the animal died. Learning about carbon dating and other scientific methods can help us better understand the world around us and our place in it. So, why not explore this fascinating topic further and discover the secrets that fossils can reveal?

The search for alien life in the universe is an intriguing quest that has captivated the attention of many. The possibility of life existing in various forms and how it could have developed is a topic that continues to spark curiosity. Scientists have been working on a theory of panspermia, which suggests that life exists throughout the universe and can be transported through space from one location to another. Microorganisms, such as archaea and bacteria, have been able to modify themselves to adapt to a vast range of conditions, making them incredibly adaptable. These extremophiles can survive in the most extreme conditions that Earth has to offer, making them the most oven-ready organisms to survive and potentially colonize the hostile environments of other planets and moons. Learning about these academic concepts not only expands our knowledge of the universe but also allows us to understand the adaptability of life and its possibilities.