As a species, humans like to think that we are fully in control of our decisions and behavior. But just below the surface, forces beyond our conscious control influence how we think and behave: our genes.Since the 1950s, scientists have been studying the influences genes have on human health. This has led medical professionals, researchers and policymakers to advocate for the use of precision medicine to personalize diagnosis and treatment of diseases, leading to quicker improvements to patient ...read more
Cheese is a relatively simple food. It’s made with milk, enzymes – these are proteins that can chop up other proteins – bacterial cultures and salt. Lots of complex chemistry goes into the cheesemaking process, which can determine whether the cheese turns out soft and gooey like mozzarella or hard and fragrant like Parmesan.In fact, humans have been making cheese for about 10,000 years. Roman soldiers were given cheese as part of their rations. It is a nutritious food that provides protein ...read more
In 2023, there was a warning that sharks off the coast of Florida could be chowing down on bales of cocaine deposited by traffickers.Then, a high-profile experiment showcased during Shark Week tested out this warning. Hitting the headlines, the possibility of cocaine-fueled sharks became a hot topic. Despite the ensuing furor, this supposed problem remains highly skeptical.“The experiments that were done for the TV show were really just to show people that there's a connection between our impa ...read more
A surprising technique has helped scientists observe how Earth’s oceans are changing, and it’s not using specialized robots or artificial intelligence. It’s tagging seals.Several species of seals live around and on Antarctica and regularly dive more than 100 meters in search of their next meal. These seals are experts at swimming through the vigorous ocean currents that make up the Southern Ocean. Their tolerance for deep waters and ability to navigate rough currents make these adventurous ...read more
Through countless eons of birth and death, our ancient ancestors have passed down their burial and funerary practices to the present day. Some of these customs have remained the same, while others have faded into history. Yet, regardless of whether these practices still exist today, some of the graves and cemeteries left behind by historical humans, from those located in caves or beneath giant, towering monuments, have lived on for millennia. Learn more about some of these graveyards, as well a ...read more
Author Vishay SinghPosted on Categories Discover Magazine