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1,000+ results for "Anatomy"

Mr. Ples Throws Scientists Into A Tizzy

A new study on the fossilized skull of Mr. Ples, a relative of early humans, throws doubt on previous interpretations of brain evolution. The research suggests that some estimates of brain size in early hominids may be too high and that 3-D digital models can provide accurate measurements.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience·DateJun 12, 1998

Earlier Human Speech?

A team of researchers from Duke University found that the hypoglossal canal, which controls tongue movement, is larger in humans and Neanderthals than in apes and proto-humans. This discovery challenges the theory that human speech may not have arisen until around 40,000 years ago.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 27, 1998

Sexual Preference In Women Linked To Difference In The Inner Ear

Researchers found that echo-like sounds made by the inner ears of homosexual and bisexual women are weaker than those of heterosexual women, suggesting masculinization of brain structures responsible for sexual preference. The study indicates the potential value of non-invasive windows into brain development and sexual differentiation.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 3, 1998

Researchers Solve A Puzzle In Eye Development

A team of researchers has solved a centuries-old puzzle in eye development by discovering that the embryo has a single eye field that normally separates into two. The study found that an inhibitory signal shuts off gene expression in the middle of the eye field, leading to cyclopia if this fails to happen.

Pulling Strings To Build A Better Brain

David Van Essen suggests that mechanical tension from axon connections creates brain folds. His hypothesis explains why human cortex is convoluted while others are smooth, and supports observations from transgenic mice studies. The theory could also account for individual differences in brain shapes.

Muscle Can Turn A Deaf Ear To Nerve, Study Finds

Researchers found that muscle fibers strengthen their relationship with one nerve and ignore the rest, a finding that could help explain how memories are soldered into the brain. The study suggests that synapse elimination may be a step-wise process where the muscle fiber decides which healthy axon to keep.

How Birds Sing

The study reveals that higher brain structures directly control the abstract information in a bird's song, while lower brain centers manage individual notes. Researchers hope to gain insight into how learning influences brain activity patterns.