Summer Assignment 7.24.18

There are still a few "unknown" comments from the last two weeks in my queue. If your comments have not shown up, please change the settings on your account and repost them.

• What forms of faster than light travel are most scientifically likely? My favorite SF project right now, The Expanse, doesn't have FTL travel, and it is one of the more scientifically realistic stories that I have read/watched.
• Possible new lead in the search for an Ebola virus vaccine. New protein target that may increase the effectiveness of the vaccines.
• Finding vs developing your passions.

Summer Assignment 7.17.18

Before we get to the posts this week, please make sure that your Google account settings allow your name to show up in the comment section. There are a handful of comments from last week that were listed "Unkown" as the author. If your comment has not been posted, please check your settings. I need to know names in order to give everyone credit.

The links:

• Why do some genes have interesting names like "Sonic Hedgehog" and "Ken and Barbie"? 
• Amyloid-beta protein buildup has been linked to Alzheimer's disease. New research shows that the normal function of this protein may be in defense against viral infections.
• More parasites this week. This time, focusing on the efforts to raise awareness that some parasite species are in danger of going extinct, and what we may learn from them.

Summer Assignment 7.10.18

First official post of the 2017 Summer Assignment. Rules are simple:

1. Look at the list of links I provide.
2. Pick a few (or all) to read.
3. Make an intelligent comment here that shows you read and thought about at least one.
4. Gain points. Comments that are made within the week receive maximum points. 

Please remember to follow me on Twitter (@DrHMTHS) to get notified when new posts go up, and to complete the form to let us know about any extended vacation plans.

The links:

• Parasites don't need to infect a host to control behavior. Slight case of overselling the data with the headline, but it basically holds. Group behavior can be dangerous. 
• New guidelines on antibiotic treatment coming? Maybe finishing the entire run will no longer be the standard. This may also require closer monitoring during treatment, since it seems sugar levels are a major indicator.
• CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing may not work in stem cells.