3 Questions. 3 Hints. 3 Answers.
October 20, 2015
1. Heading out for a run? What should you leave behind?
Hint:
Answer: some scientists believe runners sustain fewer injuries when running barefoot. Running barefoot results in greater fore-foot or middle-foot striking which reduces stress injuries and encourages optimal function of the Achilles tendon and the plantar arch. Other scientists question those results and suggest that fore-foot and middle-foot strikes may simply shift the location of the injuries sustained by runners if encouraged to run that way. Running shoes previously designed with a heel-strike in mind are now being designed with a middle strike in mind. Another option is to take more and shorter strides. Read the details here.
2. Not everything is bigger (or better) in Texas.
Hint:
Answer: Texas and Oklahoma allow companies to create their own workers’ compensation plans and thereby opt out of the state plan. An investigation recently determined that compared to state worker’s compensation, company benefit plans typically carry many more restrictions, give the company more control, place a lower value on injuries and lack oversight measures. For many workers, this is a set-back, not progress. Read more here.
3. China’s newest creation:
Hint:
Answer: Chinese scientists recently announced they successfully edited the genome of a beagle, creating a more muscular version of the dog, by deleting a particular gene. The scientists plan to develop canines with genetic mutations similar to those found in humans in an attempt to understand and develop therapies & cures for debilitating and complex human diseases. The technology holds great promise. Nonetheless, advocates for dogs no doubt will ask, why can’t the scientists just stick to producing less physiologically compatible genetically engineered mice? It may be said it that is one thing to use genetic engineering to correct defects (realizing that is, of course, the endpoint of such research) but quite another to induce them, especially when talking about Lassie with Parkinson’s. Read the story here.