Ayesha Azeem ‘23 For centuries, humans have been breeding domestic dogs with the intention of producing specific skill sets needed to improve humans’ lives. For example, purpose-bred dogs can be used for hunting or as service dogs that guide people with disabilities. Dog breeding has been highly controversial lately, since dogs are now seen more as companions rather than workers. In a new study conducted … Continue reading Breeding can Change Dogs’ Brains
Ayesha Azeem ‘23 “Comfort-eating,” or increased food intake, is one of the most common responses to stressful situations. Cortisol is the body’s main stress hormone that regulates metabolism and the immune response to stressful situations. Cortisol reactivity under stress can predict stress-related eating behavior and how it affects the body mass index (BMI). Based on one’s cortisol reactivity to a stressor, a person may be … Continue reading Comfort Eating and Cortisol Reactivity
Ayesha Azeem ‘23 We humans are very complex creatures. When we spend a lot of time in close association with a species, we tend to treat them as if they are humans as well, and we can decipher their emotions clearly. With the expression of emotions, we can communicate our motivations, responses and needs to others. Recognizing animals’ emotions can be beneficial, as it may … Continue reading How Do We Recognize Dog Emotions?
Ayesha Azeem ‘23 Our society currently witnesses an underrepresentation of females in most ‘heavy’ science and mathematics fields, including technology and engineering. Though some may argue that the unfair proportions are due to biological differences, little evidence supports this claim. Scientists study biological differences in the brain, and the brains of males and females are more similar than not. Though behavioral studies often find no … Continue reading Genetics and the Brain
Ayesha Azeem ‘23 Sleep is vital for maintaining physical and mental health and general well-being. However, our society often witnesses sleep disturbances, especially as we get older and in those who suffer from psychological disorders. However, many people, especially the elderly or those suffering from psychological disorders, experience sleep disturbances. Though some may use sleep-inducing medication, this may not be as effective as toleration can … Continue reading How Relaxing Music Affects Sleep
Ayesha Azeem ‘23 Test anxiety is a condition that affects up to 40% of students who suffer immense stress and worry before and while taking a test. Anxiety in test situations can present itself in many different ways and may not seem so apparent to the sufferer at first. Symptoms include: nervousness, high heart rate, sweating, avoidance, and failing concerns. Anxiety can weaken the ability … Continue reading Open-Label Placebos and Test Anxiety
Ayesha Azeem ‘23 In women, breast cancer is universally seen as the most common cancer, with diet being one of the most important factors in causing the condition. Coffee is one of the most popular drinks available in the world and, in Hong Kong, a recent fan-favorite. From 2010 to 2018, coffee revenue skyrocketed from 119 million USD to 279 million USD. With the obvious … Continue reading The Association Between Coffee Products and Breast Cancer Risk in Hong Kong
Ayesha Azeem ‘23 Oxytocin (OT), familiarly known as the “love drug,” is a hormone that promotes feelings of social bonding, sexual reproduction and cooperation. Because of its apparent positive effects, researchers are currently investigating how to increase levels of oxytocin internally and without artificial interference. In a recent study conducted by the Bar-Ilan University Department of Psychology in Israel, Yuri Rassovsky and team considered the … Continue reading Martial Arts and Love
