Earlier we proposed that solving puzzles should be a school subject. A study by researchers at the University of Exeter shows that solving puzzles like crosswords on a daily base, strongly improves one’s cognitive abilities at old age. More precise: regular puzzle solving is linked to better memory and thinking skills.
This study supports our proposed policy of including puzzle solving in the curriculum of schools, as it suggests that this will improve overall intellectual skills and hence will likely have a positive effect on academic performances.
Apparently there are plans to introduce an opt-out system of organ donation in England, after the Scottish government has announced to introduce such system there. An opt-out system means that every person is automatically an organ donor unless he/she or his/her next of kin objects. Continue reading Organ donation→
A team a doctors at the Children’s Hospital of Pennsylvannia have make an important breakthrough in developing an artificial uterus. They put six lamb fetuses in a kind of plastic bag and managed to grow them to healthy sheep. This technology could have significant consequences on the debate on abortion and the issue of gender equality.
According to Canadian research there is a correlation between living close to major traffic roads and the probability of developing dementia. Though the cause of this relation is yet unclear, it is likely to be related with the emission of fine dust, which might cause brain damage. Continue reading Traffick and Dementia→
Recently I came across the lead crime hypothesis. According to this hypothesis, proposed by Rick Nevin, crime rates are related to the exposure to lead. More precisely Nevin argues that the crime bulge seen in multiple Western countries could be related by the use of leaded gasoline. Continue reading Public enemy #1?→
Japanese scientist have created bioengineered skin that is almost as real as skin can get. This skin contains hair, glands and even nerves. The researchers mention two practical applications of their invention: better treatment of burn victims and as an alternative for animal testing. Continue reading Artificial skin→
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