Author: Yunning YuanArtist: Shangyu ChenEditor: Yuen Bing Ooi “Every year 3,000+ babies could benefit from…
Category: Issue 12
Personal genomics companies like 23andMe offer DNA testing to provide insights into health-related traits. While DNA sequencing costs have plummeted, methods like genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have limitations, often identifying only a few variants related to complex diseases. Consumers should be cautious as results may oversimplify health risks and not inform treatment decisions effectively.
Author: Katie KavanaghArtist: Qiwen LiuEditor: Rachel Grosberg Music is a part of everyone’s life, playing…
Author: Elin BonyadiArtist: Bella MarwickEditor: Leonie Hellwich From being a means through which our subconscious…
Jazz musicians experience a state of intense focus and effortless creativity known as “flow” during solos. Using fMRI techniques, researchers found increased activity in the brain’s Default Mode Network (DMN), associated with self-expression and idea generation, and decreased activity in the Executive Control Network (ECN), linked to idea monitoring and evaluation. This suggests that jazz improvisation involves decreased inhibition and increased mind-wandering, reflecting a state of flow. Achieving this state requires practice, technical mastery, and the willingness to take creative risks without excessive self-censoring.
Brain organoids are 3D brain-like tissues derived from human pluripotent stem cells, capable of mimicking certain brain functions. While they show promise for studying neurological diseases, their potential consciousness remains debated. Ethical considerations arise in using human cells and potential animal integration. Overall, they may enhance research into brain disorders.
Post-workout protein intake is crucial for muscle recovery and growth due to its role in muscle protein synthesis (MPS). Consuming protein within 30 minutes to 2 hours enhances benefits, although daily intake is more significant. Carbohydrates are also essential for replenishing glycogen and optimizing recovery, often recommended with protein in a ratio of 3:1 or 4:1.
Myopia is a growing global issue affecting nearly 1 in 5 teenagers, characterized by light focusing in front of the retina. While genetics plays a crucial role, epigenetic factors are significant in its progression. Research identifies over fifteen gene loci involved in myopia, particularly through DNA methylation, influencing gene expression and contributing to refractive errors.
The article explores the aesthetic behaviors of various animals, particularly focusing on the unique shell-decorating practices of Xenophora snails, which provide evolutionary advantages. It also highlights the apparent aesthetic sensibilities in bowerbirds, orcas, and chimpanzees, suggesting that these behaviors indicate self-expression and culture beyond mere survival instincts.
Picky eating habits arise from genetic predispositions and environmental factors. Taste buds detect five taste qualities, influencing preferences. Genetic variations like TAS2R38 and TAS1R2/TAS1R3 affect bitterness and sweetness perception. Taste preferences may change with age and exposure to foods. Social factors, including parenting practices, also contribute to picky eating tendencies, adding complexity to food behavior’s nature versus nurture debate.
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