Just Plain WEIRD #2

 

ADHD linked to evolutionary success in ancient humans

It’s hypothesized that certain genetic ADHD traits may have benefited nomadic tribes by increasing exploratory behaviors.  AI-generated by DALL-E – By Rich Haridy 2024 Feb 20 – While current diagnostic definitions of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are relatively new, the general condition has been …

Replacement brain cells, grown to order

Researchers created specific brain cells from stem cells using differently charged hydrogels.  AI generated by DALL-E – By Paul McClure 2024 Feb 21 – Damaged brain tissue can be re-grown using a new method that lets researchers guide stem cells into exactly the type …

Bumpy solar cells could harvest up to 66% more energy

A new solar cell design consisting of “hemispheres” on the surface, like braille dots, could improve efficiency.  Depositphotos – By Michael Irving 2024 Feb 18 – Solar cell efficiency may get a bump from bumps. New research suggests that building tiny domes into the …

Why does a leap year have 366 days?

Leap Day is coming. Marvin Samuel Tolentino Pineda/iStock, via Getty images – By Bhagya Subrayan, PhD Student in Physics and Astronomy, Purdue University Published: 2024 Feb 19 – Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question …

As a rabbi, philosopher and physician, Maimonides wrestled with religion and reason – the book he wrote to reconcile them, ‘Guide to the Perplexed,’ has sparked debate ever since

A bas-relief of Maimonides, sculpted by Brenda Putnam, hangs in the U.S. House of Representatives among statues of historical lawmakers. Architect of the Capitol/Wikimedia – By Randy L. Friedman, Associate Professor of Judaic Studies, Binghamton University, State University of New York Published: 2024 …