Much of the science news these days remains focused on US policy developments, funding changes, and significant shifts in messaging. There is certainly more than enough to fill another blog post. At the same time, I'm not sure I have anything new to say. I remain in favor of funding basic research, both to learn about the world and as a good investment in the future. I remain in favor of supporting public health programs here and abroad that reduce human suffering from various communicable diseases and other ailments. … [Read more...] about Science Corner: Grandmother, What Grey Fur You Have
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Science Corner: Time Dilation
Even with the loss of an hour, lately it seems like we are packing more news into each day than we used to. And so much of the news lately has been science-related; not necessarily new discoveries--although those are happening too--but the enterprise of science itself is getting more attention. So, we'll trying something a little different this month and try to touch on a few topics in brief. First up, some very quick looks at positive stories. For International Women's Day, several female scientists pay tribute to … [Read more...] about Science Corner: Time Dilation
Science Corner: Double Check, Please!
Content warning: discussion of substance use and overdoses "Find the differences between these two pictures" is a classic children's activity--and now a popular meme format from The Office. Maybe sometimes it is just something to the pass the time, but one can certainly imagine that it's good practice for focused attention and visual discernment, not to mention basics like counting and color recognition for the younger kiddos. Sometimes it can be a job for adults, too. Such was the nature of the task I was given a … [Read more...] about Science Corner: Double Check, Please!
Science Corner: Not All Vaccines are Created Equal
Dark energy, or the possible lack thereof, grabbed a lot of headlines at the end of the year. However, it sounds like rumors of its demise are probably premature. This is a pattern in science, especially science journalism and popular science. An alternative to the consensus, previously only known within its field, comes to wider attention and causes a stir. The alternative idea seems to make sense to a lay audience because it is presented only in the context of the data that best match that idea. But the experts know … [Read more...] about Science Corner: Not All Vaccines are Created Equal
Science Corner: Making Change
How does change happen? Fast, slow, locally, everywhere, smoothly or in leaps and bounds? Of course the answer can be all of the above, depending on the change and the circumstances. Still, it's a question that came to mind as I thought about advent this year. We are rehearsing the wait for one of the most profound changes the world has experienced. We have the benefit of knowing how long we will wait and what we are waiting for, and yet the nature of the change still has multiple facets to consider. … [Read more...] about Science Corner: Making Change