Can humans regenerate limbs . . .

University of Manchester scientists have discovered the importance of reactive oxygen compounds in the regeneration of tadpole limbs.  They hope to apply this research to aid human medicine.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/01/130113201141.htm#.UPQDfiBgbSo.email

Recent discovery in Mitosis

Scientists have learned that proteins aren't the only important main molecules of life in the cell.

Lipids serve an essential role in cell division (mitosis):

http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn22592-chemical-key-to-cell-division-revealed.html

This study, which began after a new focus on progeria research, may be helpful in curing uncontrollable cell division (cancer).

Origins of Photosynthesis

Geologic evidence for the beginnings of photosynthesis:

http://www.newscientist.com/article/mg21628944.500-captured-the-moment-photosynthesis-changed-the-world.html

Simulated Brain

As you begin to study for trimesters, you'll realize that your brain is full of potential.  Believe it or not, the brain's ability to reason and understand concepts outperforms even the most advanced computers.

Scientists have been unable to completely mimic the human brain through computer processing, but that hasn't stopped them from trying . . .

http://www.popsci.com/science/article/2012-11/meet-spaun-first-computer-model-complex-brain-behavior

Nobel Prize in Medicine: Solving ethical problems through science

You may have heard about this in science class over the past few years, but two scientists have found a way to turn normal skin cells (or any human cells) into pluripotent stem cells by simply turning four genes off.

This eliminates the debate for stem cell research focusing on aborted fetuses as the primary source for stem cells.

Understandably, Dr. John B. Gurdon and Dr. Shinya Yamanaka have been awarded the Nobel Prize for their findings.

http://www.nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/medicine/laureates/2012/press.html

Protein Folding Computer Game

Your knowledge of the four levels of 3-D protein structures will help you in the following online game:

http://fold.it/portal/

New Mechanism for the Link between Overeating and Diabetes Suggested

Most of you may know that eating too much food, especially sugar, leads to diabetes, but here is a new mechanism for that result:
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/10/121017153911.htm?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+sciencedaily%2Fmost_popular+%28ScienceDaily%3A+Most+Popular+News%29