Here’s why you’re right-handed or left-handed (MSNBC)
It depends on eye dominance. In recent U.S. history, the majority of presidents have been left-handed (Ford, Reagan, G.H.W. Bush, Clinton, Obama). Scientists haven’t yet found a link between hand preference and an individual’s abilities. Study based on eye and foot preferences of parrots (see left-footed parrot, right).
France’s first genetically-engineered baby born (M&C)
The headline is misleading. This is the first “savior sibling,” “spare parts baby” (think “My sister’s keeper”) in France. An embryo was screened both for lack of disease and being a sibling match. Genetic engineering implies something was changed, not just selected.
Anorexics are finding ‘thinspiration’ on Web (The Daily)
Pro-ana and pro-mia (bulimia) websites went underground a decade ago, but are now making a comeback on microblogging platform Tumblr. New sites deny extreme weight-loss is an eating disorder. Claim it’s a healthier lifestyle.
Flu breakthrough promises a vaccine to kill all strains (Guardian)
Scientists at Oxford have successfully tested a universal flu vaccine that could work against all known strains of the illness. Targets proteins. Would not need expensive reformulation every year.
Is Ripeness All? (NYT)
Does underripe fruit have less nutritional value? Ripeness not the major factor in nutrition. Bigger factors are variety of the fruit (Gala, Fuji), how it’s treated between harvest and purchase.
Sore muscles of mice and men (NHS)
Muscle fatigue is caused by calcium leaking into muscle cells, activating an enzyme that breaks down proteins. New drug blocks leaks in mice, reduces muscle fatigue after strenuous exercise. May help treat heart failure.
Image: MSNBC
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