Isolation reveals the human mind at its best … and its worst. Free from some of the distractions and stressors that harangue them, our minds have the time and space to wander a bit. We might find ourselves lost in thought or daydreaming more often. By lifting that which constrains our cognitive processes to the […]
The psychology of isolation: A double-edged sword Read More »
The race to develop a vaccine for the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic spans across the world as the virus continues to take thousands of lives every day. Unfortunately, the fastest vaccines typically take at least five years to fully develop; this includes multiple failed attempts before commercializing an effective vaccine that successfully passes all clinical trials
Vaccine development: From the lab bench to the doctor’s office Read More »
With cases surpassing two million nationwide, hospitals and healthcare systems across the country have stepped up to meet the unprecedented challenges of COVID-19. Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers courageously serve those weakest while risking it all — reusing personal protective equipment (PPE), taking up additional shifts, and often living in hotels or garages in
Why are hospitals losing money during a pandemic? Read More »
Animals have long provided assistance to humans in times of great need. Countless heroic animals have saved human lives — dogs can undergo training to track missing persons, detect an oncoming seizure, or alert humans to mines underground. During the COVID-19 pandemic, animals continue to impact human lives (beyond interrupting Zoom calls). As knowledge about
The body is a well-designed system with a variety of barriers to keep invaders out. These range from the physical barriers of the skin to the biological protection of the immune system. However, the structures of the face such as the eyes, nose, and mouth represent major vulnerabilities. The nose and mouth are an interconnected
The role of mucins in disease transmission Read More »
Boston takes pride in being one of the scientific research capitals of the world. With some of the most prestigious universities funneling students and professors alike into small start-ups in Kendall Square and Seaport, Bostonian biotechnology has blossomed into a multi-billion dollar industry. At Northeastern University, the biotech industry has provided thousands of cooperative education
Two sides of the coin: Boston biotech’s role in COVID-19 Read More »
Some people love eating peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, and some could go into anaphylactic shock if you eat one in the same room as them. Peanut allergies are one of the most common food allergies in the United States, and are particularly dangerous because peanut products are highly prevalent, making the risk of cross-contamination
One tough nut: A new exposure-therapy drug could treat one of the most common allergies Read More »
The restaurant industry thrives from its promise of a sensory experience that enhances the consumption of food. Whether it be the ambient lighting, the flaming flat top grills visible behind the counter, or the aroma from the kitchen, these restaurants may truly be onto something. The intake of food often involves more than just taste,
In the mood for food? Could be a change of scenery Read More »
July is the peak of the summer with an average high temperature of 81 degrees Fahrenheit. During this time, hydration is extremely important, for it prevents us from feeling tired and fatigued. Water is vital to life, as it keeps our bodies functioning normally. However, people usually overlook hydration as a stress reliever. The human
Water and mental health Read More »