Human Behavior

Pope: Pandemic revealed world’s false securities, lack of cooperation – Arlington Catholic Herald

VATICAN CITY -- In facing the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the efforts of the scientific community can serve as an example for the world on the importance of working together for the common good, Pope Francis said.

In a message sent Oct. 7 to participants in the plenary assembly of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences, the pope said that the pandemic "brought to light not only our false securities, but also the inability of the world's countries to work together."

The academy's assembly, on the other hand, "brings together a number of different scientific disciplines" and "offers an example of how the challenges of the COVID-19 crisis should be addressed through coordinated efforts in the service of the entire human family," he said.

The Oct. 7-9 virtual event, titled "Science and Survival," focused on the coronavirus, as well as the "connections between large-scale risks for life on this planet and opportunities of science to address them," the pontifical academy's website stated.

Members of the academy also planned to address the "root causes and prevention of 'zoonotic diseases,'" that is, "infectious diseases caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites that spread from animals to humans."

"Food-related animal production systems may need reshaping to reduce the risks of zoonotic breeding grounds," the website stated.

"We also need to know more about the psychological foundations of human behavior in situations of collective stress, in order to decide on appropriate governance strategies in crises," it said.

In his message, the pope said that COVID-19 not only affects people's health, but also "the entire social, economic and spiritual fabric of society, paralyzing human relationships, work, manufacturing, trade and even many spiritual activities."

It also has had a major impact on education, he added, in that great numbers of children are unable to return to school, thus risking an "increase in child labor, exploitation, abuse and malnutrition."

On a broader scale, he said, "being unable to see a person's face and considering other people as potential carriers of the virus is a terrible metaphor of a global social crisis that must be of concern to all who have the future of humanity at heart."

The coronavirus pandemic, along with other issues such as global warming and the loss of biodiversity, he said, are calls for humanity "to rethink its course, to repent and to undertake an ecological conversion."

The pope said the pandemic has also highlighted the plight of the poor who "cry out for equitable solutions on the part of government and all decision-makers."

"Health care systems, for example, need to become much more inclusive and accessible to the disadvantaged and those living in low-income countries. If anyone should be given preference, let it be the neediest and most vulnerable among us," Pope Francis said.

"How wonderful it would be if the growth of scientific and technological innovation could come along with more equality and social inclusion," the pope said, quoting his recently published encyclical, "Fratelli Tutti, on Fraternity and Social Friendship."

"How wonderful would it be, even as we discover faraway planets, to rediscover the needs of the brothers and sisters who orbit around us!" he said.

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Pope: Pandemic revealed world's false securities, lack of cooperation - Arlington Catholic Herald

Human Behavior

Yes, There Is a Place for Sugar in Your Diet – Dance Magazine

Given the hype around sugar's unhealthy consequences, it might as well be wrapped in a layer of yellow "Caution" tape. But many dancers still cannot kick the strong cravings for their favorite sweet indulgences. How can dancers manage this urge without fear? Why the Body Craves Sugar

Whether it comes from whole-grain bread or a sundae, sugar is a derivative of carbohydrates. These are your body's preferred fuel not just for dancing but also for your brain, nervous system and red blood cells. When you're low on energy, hormones are released to signal that it's time for a replenishment. This translates into hunger, and if you're choosing a no-carb or low-carb diet, those signals are bound to grow stronger and cause you to crave sweeter, more energy-dense carbohydrate-based foods.

An overwhelming amount of fear surrounds sugar. Some feel that it's addictive and think, "Once I start, I won't stop." But research displaying any potential for sugar addiction is limited to animal studies that cannot parallel human behavior. In fact, there's a stronger link between overall food restriction and overeating.

Sugar in and of itself is not the reason why you might overeat. Rather, denying yourself the sweet stuff is the very driver of overdoing it in the long run, due to the body's biological need for carbs and the mind's psychological desire to want what it thinks it cannot have.

Be wary of low-sugar versions of your favorite dessert. These can often leave you mentally unsatisfied and physically low on the very carbohydrates your body needs for energy.

There are instances when sugary foods might not serve your dancing. Insulin, a hormone that moves sugar away from your blood and into your working muscles, is released in response to your food intake. Eating an excessive amount of sugar can lead to high levels of insulin, which soon leads to a major drop in energy.

If you're feeling tired and sluggish midway into your class, it could be a sign that you need to scale back on your pre-dancing sugar load. Save that chocolate bar for afterward.

The FDA defines "added sugars" as those added to foods during processing to help improve flavor, texture and shelf life. Added sugars can inadvertently sneak into your day. Though not thought of as sweet, condiments, soups, dressings and marinades often have them.

Check the ingredient lists to identify highly refined sugars like high fructose corn syrup, which has been associated with increased levels of inflammation. Choose foods that are instead sweetened with less-refined sources:

To make sweets part of a healthy lifestyle, honor your body's need for sugar as a source of energy. When cravings arise, embrace them as a sign that you actually need the dose of carbs. To avoid the potential of overdoing it, satisfy your sweet tooth mindfully: Power down the screens, portion your servings and use utensils. This helps to create an eating experience, which allows you to better tune in to feelings of satisfaction and fullness.

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Yes, There Is a Place for Sugar in Your Diet - Dance Magazine

Human Behavior

Film Review: ‘The One and Only Ivan’ Inspires Animal Activism – Graphic

Photos courtesy of Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

The One and Only Ivan shares a true, enlightening tale that highlights the empathic aspect of animals and is relevant to the growing understanding of the sentient nature of animals. The movie based on the book by the same name by Katherine Applegate tells the story of Ivan, a silverback gorilla, with a Disney twist.

Directed by Thea Sharrock, the film first became available for streaming on Disney+ on Aug 1. The movies all-star cast, including Sam Rockwell as the voice of Ivan, Danny DeVito as the voice of Bob, and Angelina Jolie as the voice of Stella, elevates the overall quality of the film.

Bob, a stray dog the gorilla takes in, proves to be Ivans best friend. Ivans many interactions with the other animals in the film highlight his gentle nature.

Ivan and Bob talk after hours in Ivan's cage at the circus. Ivan dreamt of being free.

The real silverback gorilla the movie is based on, also named Ivan, was born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 1962. He was captured the same year, and at 2 years old, he was sold to private owners in the U.S. Ruben and Lois Johnston raised Ivan in a home with two boys of their own.

The film doesnt depict this beginning and instead starts by showing a grown Ivan in a circus cage. A single owner of the circus replaces the Johnston family. Its a movie that inspires viewers to step outside themselves and consider life from the perspective of a cage. It showcases the animals personalities through CGI effects, giving the animals visible emotion.

The film illustrates the beauty of childhood innocence, the power of a dream and the undeniable intelligence of these animals. Drawing on the childhood innocence theme, Ivan paints a forest-like setting on the glass wall of his circus display. He paints it because a little girl, Julia, told him she draws things as she wants them to be instead of as they are.

The intricate thought process of Ivan throughout the film, especially when he takes the advice of Julia, shows a Hollywood version of the emotional nature of animals. Animals comprehend a lot of human behavior, and their actions often emulate that understanding, which is emphasized in this scene.

The real Ivan grew up like a human child for 37 months before he became too rambunctious for his environment. He caused about $17,000 worth of damage to the Johnstons home. They decided that he would be moved to a cage in the B&I shopping center in Tacoma, Wash.

The silverback gorilla then spent 27 years in a 14 x 14 cement cell without any kind of socialization with other animals. He never stepped foot outside or touched real grass for his entire residence at the shopping center.

Ivans gentle personality and sharp intellect inspired a nation to rally for better living conditions for the gorilla. Local animal welfare groups successfully campaigned for his release to a more suitable environment, which occurred in 1994 when he was placed at Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle.

The movie also depicts a nation that rallied behind Ivans release, which began with Julia pleading to the public via a news anchor at the circus.

The first zoo didnt have adequate space for Ivan, so he was transferred permanently to Zoo Atlanta in Atlanta, Ga. Ivan spent the last 18 years of his life there an environment that was far more conducive to his species because release back into the wild was unrealistic due to how he grew up.

Many major news sources, including The New York Times, covered Ivans story. People Magazine also published a story on him, which helped further the campaign for his release. Headlines and protests that illustrated the nation-wide plea for him were shown in the film.

Today, animal rights activists try to prevent stories like this from ever occurring again. Animal welfare groups continue to pursue the best possible conditions for exotic animals in captivity. Animals, however, are still considered zoo attractions and confined in cages. The fight for their freedom is far from over.

The film ended with Ivans release to the zoo where Julia visited him with Ivans best friend, Bob, who became her pet dog. It ends on an uplifting and hopeful note, advocating for more humane treatment of animals.

The film is available to stream exclusively on Disney+. Its expected release date to other streaming services is unknown.

____________________

Follow the Graphic on Twitter: @PeppGraphic

Contact Christin Karr via Twitter: @Christin_Karr or by email: christin.karr@pepperdine.edu

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Film Review: 'The One and Only Ivan' Inspires Animal Activism - Graphic

Human Behavior

Shine On – Thrive Global

With a quick snap of a cloth on leather, Mr. Levert Johnson, has been accustomed to shining shoes for the past 30 years atSt. Louis International Lambert Airport. Then, hunched over, he carefully touched the soles with a toothbrush and polish. He listened to politicians, ministers, educators, doctors, dignitaries, economists from all over the world humans. What did they all have in common? What wisdom did Mr. Johnson extract from his daily interactions by inviting his clients on his chair?

Levert loved talking sports. Basketball is his favorite. If people chose to talk a little deeper, he was willing to lend a listening ear.

People closest to the problem, are the closest to the solution, says Mr. Johnson. We can apply this truth of wisdom to anything in life.

Today, the once-ubiquitous shoeshine professional has nearly vanished from the airport, hotel lobbeys, barbershops and American popular culture. The handful of men who continue shining shoes are finding ways to do so within their own homes as rent is high and business has gone down severely due to the economy and this years pandemic.

Levert was raised by a single mother of seven children who taught him to do his best each and every day regardless of how he would be treated. Leverts best paying clients typically were ones who did not want to talk. He could read clients body language very well. Some came just to talk to him directly about work, life, politics, etc. One client even brought his son with him to get some additional life advice. Some just wanted protected time to read and sit in silence. The dynamics of each client brought a greater appreciation and understanding to human behavior in Leverts eyes.

In terms of money, Levert says, It all boils down to how bad you want it. His mother taught him to be independent. He started working at the age of 13 and then enlisted in theArmy. He never wanted to be dependent on anyone because he knows nothing is free in life. As a Veteran, loyalty, duty, respect, honor, personal courage and selfless service were always part of his core.

Life is a great big playground. You have to stop and think. Think about the consequences versus the what if? The consequences are greater than being in the moment. Some people get to play the game; while others are quickly replaced. Stop and think. Stop and think. Find a playground that will help you grow and remember, life is not fair.

You have to show. Words no longer mean anything. In Leverts days, a handshake or a good word was a covenant. Nowadays, he sees things have changed drastically. Trust is difficult and the pace of life has gone into overdrive this has left many unaware of their surroundings and of the importance of creating deep relationships and building a strong community. He remembers growing up with little, but still, he had a community that somehow made each day meaningful.

In terms of work, once you become good at what you do, you will love what you do, Levert laments thinking back. He loved shining shoes. He loved interacting with people. He loved listening, pausing and appreciating the blessings in life he was able to recognize each and every day. Levert loves to learn from other people. Each person who comes into your life has a message that you can learn from if you stay alert. He had difficulty with negative self-talk growing up, but he realized, its all mind over matter.

Levert definitely has his opinions on shoes. Quality gives you confidence and this is a value Levert keeps dearly within him. Regardless of the situation, he still provides the best quality possible in whatever task he delivers. This keeps him confident, positive, and hopeful for better days ahead.

Levert considers himself a slow-learner. He did not know the alphabet until he was fifteen. He taught himself because he wanted to read. He loved art, but his natural talents were not utilized in school. Rather, he was discouraged; and so his artistic drawing talent was rediscovered further in life. He still remembers the names of his teacher, Ms. Davis, who told him he was foolish for wanting to draw. You have to have the desire and focus on yourself,Levert shares. Levert wishes he focused on himself, but had many responsibilities and barriers that didnt allow him to pursue the desires he had within him.

Levert worked with many people. He believes all people are good, but everyone has a story behind their face. He never tried to get too close to people. He set respectful boundaries because if he got too involved, people would take advantage of his kindness. He believes in the value of a human being and doing for others as he would like others to do for him.

Do the best you can each day. Do people right. If you see someone in need of help, help them. Do it not to look good; do it because you were chosen to help that person. You never know when you may be in that position one day. Growing up in a large household of seven children and being placed right in the middle, he did not grow up with the luxuries in life. He often remembers being hungry, but his mother did whatever possible to take care of all of them.

Levert keeps shining shoes from his home right now as he awaits and hopes for a turnaround when business and travel increase. In the meantime, he continues to do the best he can. He came to the St. Patrick Center to work on improving his skillsets. He signed up for the Job Readiness Training program which allows clients to create a resume, develop interviewing skills and find out what skillsets may be transferable and upskilled to other sectors of employment. Levert understands the importance of being part of a healthy community system. He completed the training program and now works for the BEST crew. Levert looks forward to shining brightly in the future, but most importantly, taking the good with the bad.

You have to look the part if youre going to do the business, Levert shares. Levert shows up every morning toSt. Patrick Center, polishing his own skillsets and setting the standard of making the best of each and every day moving forward.

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Shine On - Thrive Global

Immunology

Karen Oates brings biology, immunology expertise to COVID-19 education project – WPI News

Karen Oates

Karen Oates, professor of biology & biotechnology, will coordinate the development of educational materials for a project aimed at teaching college students and the general public about vaccines.

The one-year project is funded by a $199,425 RAPID grant from the National Science Foundation to Santa Clara University. Oates is co-principal investigator on the project, working with scientists and science communicators to develop short YouTube videos, social media content, and project-based teaching materials.

Some studies have shown that a large percentage of 18- to 29-year-olds have said they would not be vaccinated against COVID-19, if a vaccine were available, Oates said. I feel a responsibility to give college students information about vaccines and vaccination so they can make decisions based on science. I want them to understand their responsibilities to their communities when it comes to vaccination, and I want to give them the tools to make the right decisions.

The project will develop educational modules on understanding science, the science of COVID-19, vaccine science, and COVID-19 science communication. Oates, an expert in biochemistry and immunology, plans to test some of the educational materials at WPI during her C Term class on human biology. All materials developed during the project will be free to users and available in English and Spanish, she said.

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Karen Oates brings biology, immunology expertise to COVID-19 education project - WPI News

Immunology

Plasma Fractionation Market to Exhibit a CAGR of 7.6% and Touch USD 48.55 Billion by 2027; Constant Research and Study of immunoglobulin to Lighten…

Pune, Oct. 08, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Global plasma fractionation market size is expected to reach USD 48.55 billion by 2027, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.6% during the forecast period. The growing incidence of immunological disorders is expected to spur demand for the market, states Fortune Business Insights, in a report, titled Plasma Fractionation Market Size, Share & COVID-19 Impact Analysis, By Product (Immunoglobulin, Albumin, Coagulation Factors, Protease Inhibitors, and Others), By Application (Immunology & Neurology, Hematology, Critical Care, Pulmonology, and Others), By End-user (Hospitals & Clinics, Clinical Research Laboratories, and Others), and Regional Forecast, 2020-2027. The market size stood at USD 25.44 billion in 2019.

The report on the market of Plasma Fractionation comprises:

Notable Development:

October 2018: Shire announced the commencement of the plasma fractionation facility in Georgia, U.S.

Request a Sample Copy of the Research Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/request-sample-pdf/plasma-fractionation-market-101614

High R&D for Alzheimers Therapies to Contribute Growth

The growing adoption of immunoglobulin for the management, treatment, and diagnosis of metabolic diseases is expected to have a tremendous impact on the market. The ongoing R&D investments and study of immunoglobulin to treat Alzheimers and other autoimmune disorders therapies will spur business opportunities for the market.

Immunoglobulin is glycoprotein molecules that are derived by plasma fractionation and act as antibodies. Moreover, the growing utilization of immunoglobulin owing to its superior advantages can further incite the development of the market.

The coronavirus incidence has caused severe damage and financial ruin to industries across the globe. The governments of several countries have instigated lockdown to thwart the spread of this deadly virus. Such plans have caused disturbances in the production and supply chain.

But, with time and resolution, we will be able to combat this stern time and get back to normality. Our well-revised reports will help companies to receive in-depth information about the present scenario of every market so that you can adopt the necessary strategies accordingly.

To get to know more about the short-term and long-term impacts of COVID-19 on this market, please visit: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/plasma-fractionation-market-101614

Favorable Government Regulations to Propel Market in North America

The market size in North America is expected to grow profoundly during the forecast period owing to the increasing research and development in the field of plasma. The well-established healthcare infrastructure. The favorable government regulations and FDA approvals are expected to enable speedy expansion of the market in the forthcoming years.

The growing participation in plasma donations is expected to foster the healthy growth of the market. Europe is predicted to witness high growth during the forecast period due to the growing prevalence of rare diseases in the region. The heavy investments in plasma fractionation systems will create lucrative business opportunities for the market.

Quick Buy - Plasma Fractionation Market Research Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/checkout-page/101614

The Report Lists the Main Companies in this Plasma Fractionation Market:

Have Any Query? Ask Our Experts: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/speak-to-analyst/plasma-fractionation-market-101614

Global Plasma Fractionation Market Segmentations:

By Product Type

Albumin

Immunoglobulin

o Intravenous Immunoglobulin

o Subcutaneous Immunoglobulin

Coagulation Factors

o Factor IX

o Factor VIII

o Prothrombin Complex Concentrates

o Fibrinogen Concentrates

o Others

Protease Inhibitors

Others

By Application

Immunology & Neurology

Hematology

Critical Care

Pulmonology

Others

By End User

Hospitals & Clinics

Clinical Research Laboratories

Others (Academic Institutes, etc)

By Geography

North America (U.S, Canada)

Europe (U.K., Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Scandinavia, and Rest of Europe)

Asia-Pacific (Japan, China, India, Australia, Southeast Asia and Rest of Asia- Pacific)

Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and Rest of Latin America)

The Middle East and Africa (South Africa, GCC, and Rest of the Middle East and Africa)

Get your Customized Research Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/customization/plasma-fractionation-market-101614

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Colorectal Cancer Therapeutics Market Share & Industry Analysis, By Therapy (Targeted Therapy, Immunotherapy, Chemotherapy, Others), By Cancer Type (Colorectal Adenocarcinoma, Gastrointestinal Carcinoid Tumors, Others), By Distribution Channel (Hospitals Pharmacies, Retail Pharmacies, Online Pharmacies, Others) and Regional Forecast, 2019-2026

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Plasma Fractionation Market to Exhibit a CAGR of 7.6% and Touch USD 48.55 Billion by 2027; Constant Research and Study of immunoglobulin to Lighten...

Genetics

Trump’s frightening embrace of the racist ‘racehorse’ theory – Los Angeles Times

To the editor: Most of the coverage we read of President Trump is about his COVID-19 infection, including his reckless advice to the American people not to be afraid of the disease. The L.A. Times has something else: an article by reporter Seema Mehta about the presidents expressed support for the racehorse theory of genetics, including a rally in Minnesota last month at which he said his supporters have good genes like he does.

There is much information on the internet about hate-based beliefs, including the racehorse theory, eugenics, Aryan race superiority, ethnic cleansing, forced sterilization of minority groups and more.

Why would any president accept or encourage hateful ideas that deserve to be condemned? America fought against Adolf Hitler and Hideki Tojo in World War II in part because we reject tyrants who kill for the sake of racial hatred.

The optimist in me hopes that Trump does not want to be remembered as a leader whose rule resulted in the death of a million or more people. American exceptionalism should not include joining a list that includes Mao Zedong, Joseph Stalin, Leopold II, Hitler and Tojo.

Alan Stillson, Woodland Hills

..

To the editor: This is more frightening than most things Ive heard from the Trump administration, and thats saying a lot.

As a Holocaust educator and a Jew knowledgeable about my peoples history, I know exactly how this ends. Never forget, and never again.

Richard Shafarman, Santa Clarita

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Trump's frightening embrace of the racist 'racehorse' theory - Los Angeles Times

Genetics

SKYMINT BRANDS(TM) — Formerly Green Peak Innovations — Joins Forces With DNA Genetics To Bring The World’s Most Globally Awarded Flower Strains To…

DIMONDALE, Mich., Oct. 8, 2020 /PRNewswire/ --SKYMINT BRANDS, Michigan's largest vertically integrated cannabis company formerly known as Green Peak Innovations, today announced a landmark collaboration with DNA Genetics - the globally acclaimed brand whose proprietary genetics have won more than 200 national and international best-in-class awards.

"SKYMINT BRANDS and DNA Genetics share a similar brand ethos in that we are both on a mission to provide cannabis enthusiasts with the highest quality flower possible," says SKYMINT BRANDSCEO Jeff Radway. "All flower is not created equal, and DNA Genetics knows this better than anyone else, which is why our SKYMINT X DNA GENETICS collaboration truly sets a high bar in Michigan."

Launching tomorrow, October 9, at all seven recreational SKYMINT locations throughout the state of Michigan, as well as select retail partners, SKYMINT X DNA GENETICS features a premium collection of seven of the most globally awarded and sought-after flower strains, including Bakers Delight and Ztrawberriez, as well as:

Clementine Flower $701st Place, High Times Cannabis Cup 20191st Place, 710 Degree Cup

Kosher Kush Flower $701st Place, High Times Cannabis Cup 2010Top 10 Strain of the Year, High Times Cannabis Cup 20111st Place Milano Secret Cup 2018People's Choice, Cannabis Cup Brazil 2016

LA Confidential Flower $701st Place, High Times Cannabis Cup 2008

Chocolope Flower $70TEN 1st Place Awards, including 1st Place, High Times Cannabis Cup 2010

Strawberry Banana Flower $701st Judges Choice, Cannabis Cup Brazil 20161st Place, High Times Socal Cup 2016

Certified as to provenance by DNA GENETICS, each seed was hand-chosen by founders Don Morris and Aaron Yarkoni and farmed to perfection by SKYMINT cultivators. Two additional strains, Gelato Sorbet and Lemon Skunk, are still to be released by year's end, as are .7 gram pre-rolls.

"Each time we explore a potential collaboration, we look for the best possible partner in each market and SKYMINT BRANDS is that partner for Michigan," says Don Morris, Co-Founder of DNA Genetics. "The extreme level of care, commitment, and innovation that SKYMINT BRANDS infuses into its cultivation and product brands inspires great confidence."

The SKYMINT X DNA GENETICS collaboration marks a new moment in Michigan's progressive cannabis market. Recreational cannabis only came online last December, and Michigan's industry has scaled rapidly, with SKYMINT a leader in that growth, establishing 10 dispensaries in seven months with two more planned to open this year.

Since its inception in 2018, SKYMINT BRANDS has dedicated itself to creating and curating premium-crafted cannabis brands, hand-grown with expert care to power a portfolio of the finest cannabis brands available for daily wellness, healing, and recreational enjoyment. Joining SKYMINT X DNA GENETICS under the SKYMINT BRANDS umbrella are SKYMINT, North Cannabis, Jolly Edibles, and the Two Joints brand, which benefits the Last Prisoner Project.

"There's good cannabis, there's better cannabis, and then there's SKYMINT X DNA GENETICS," says Laurie Gregory, Chief Brand and Product Officer at SKYMINT BRANDS. "While all of our SKYMINT BRANDS are premium, the SKYMINT X DNA GENETICS collection delivers superior genetics, flavor, and effects for a consistent, elevated experience that's unparalleled. SKYMINT X DNA GENETICS is literally the best cannabis that our state has to offer, marking a high point for our brand and for Michigan."

Adds Radway, "SKYMINT X DNA GENETICS embodies the three pillars that inspire our work at SKYMINT BRANDS: to elevate cannabis in Michigan and beyond; to cultivate stellar, premium brands; and to leverage our resources and position within the industry to change the world and our communities for the better."

The SKYMINT X DNA GENETICS launch coincides with the company's recent transition from its founding name - Green Peak Innovations - to SKYMINT BRANDS.

"SKYMINT BRANDS reflects our belief in the exponential potential of cannabis to revolutionize lives and inspire people everywhere to feel better, live better, do better, and create better. This collaboration is a perfect example of that aim. With access to the world's best cannabis, the SKY's the limit," says Gregory.

PRESS KIT

About SKYMINT BRANDSBeginning operations in Fall 2018, Skymint (formerly known as Green Peak Innovations) is Michigan's leading vertically integrated cannabis company and the state's largest medical and recreational license holder. With two state-of-the-art indoor grow facilities, the company cultivates, processes, markets, distributes and sells a full range of branded cannabis products, including SKYMINT, North Cannabis, Jolly Edibles, the Two Joints brand, which benefits the Last Prisoner Project, and SKYMINT X DNA GENETICS. Just as SKYMINT treats its plants like people - tending to and caring for them by hand, and even playing them music - each and every product is handcrafted to ensure the safest, cleanest, highest quality products at the best value. SKYMINT products can be found at the company's SKYMINT provisioning centers and via retailers around Michigan through a robust wholesale network. As purveyors of premium-crafted cannabis, SKYMINT has developed a portfolio of the finest cannabis brands available for daily wellness, healing, or just getting high on life. SKYMINT inspires people everywhere to feel better, live better and do better. Learn more: http://www.skymint.com/dna-x-skymint/

Press Contact: Holly Aubry / HUMAN NATURE / HAUBRY@HUMANNATUREPR.COM / 646.943.0541

About OG DNA Genetics Inc.DNA was rooted in Los Angeles and founded in Amsterdam in 2004 by Don Morris and Aaron Yarkoni. Over the last decade, the Company has built and curated a seasoned genetic library and developed proven standard operating procedures for genetic selection, breeding, and cultivation. In a world that is increasingly opening up to commercial cannabis activity, DNA is positioned to become the first, truly geographically-diversified company with multiple partnerships with top-licensed producers and brands that have built their companies and global presence utilizing the "Powered by DNA" model.

For more information, please visit http://www.dnagenetics.com

Press Contact: Rezwan Khan, President of DNA Genetics at rezwan@dnagenetics.com

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SKYMINT BRANDS(TM) -- Formerly Green Peak Innovations -- Joins Forces With DNA Genetics To Bring The World's Most Globally Awarded Flower Strains To...

Genetics

ASHG 2020 Virtual Meeting to Showcase Innovative Research in Human Genetics – Business Wire

ROCKVILLE, Md.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) 2020 Virtual Meeting taking place October 27-30 will showcase global advances in human genetics and genomics research that are transforming the scientific landscape and leading to new advances in the treatment of devastating diseases.

The ASHG 2020 Virtual Meeting features more than 200 oral presentations, nearly 2,000 scientific poster presentations, 80 exhibit booths, networking and professional development opportunities, and more, making it the digital epicenter of human genetics. As always, it will be among the worlds largest events for genetic and genomic discovery, with thousands of scientists, clinicians, advocates and others participating from more than 50 countries.

As a global showcase of the latest developments in human genetics, the ASHG 2020 Virtual Meeting will provide an online venue for researchers who conduct human genetics and genomics research around the world to exchange scientific knowledge, said Anthony Wynshaw-Boris, MD, PhD, ASHG President. I am excited about the fantastic talks, posters, and special sessions, that will be presented at the Virtual Meeting.

The meeting will host chat sessions throughout the program to continue scientific conversations and exchanges around the latest scientific updates and breakthroughs. The Society also will recognize the outstanding scientific achievements of its members in the human genetics and genomics community with special awards and lectures throughout the meeting.

Not only will the ASHG 2020 Virtual Meeting host exceptional plenaries, but also concurrent programming sessions covering critical areas of the field. In addition to the late-breaking COVID-19 session, other sessions will focus on data usage and data resource topics related to human genetics and genomics. Finally, of note, the Virtual Meeting will feature human genetics and genomics research which works with participants of diverse populations, as well as perspectives from researchers working in their own communities. See all speakers and sessions and the full schedule.

We are adapting to changes in the field, the global pandemic, and the need for physical distancing by hosting our first Virtual Meeting, connecting us all through outstanding science, shared resources and information, and meaningful relationships, said Teri Manolio, MD, PhD, ASHGs Program Committee Chair. ASHGs Virtual Meeting is yet another important way we are working to connect with members and the field, as we utilize our expertise in online events to deliver the best scientific programming.

Learn more about the high-caliber speakers and explore the workshops and special sessions that are incorporated into the virtual meeting this year. Registration is open. Complimentary registration is available for media; apply for credentials. To connect for interviews, contact Kara Flynn at press@ashg.org.

The American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG), founded in 1948, is the primary professional membership organization for human genetics specialists worldwide. The Societys nearly 8,000 members include researchers, academicians, clinicians, laboratory practice professionals, genetic counselors, nurses, and others who have a special interest in the field of human genetics.

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ASHG 2020 Virtual Meeting to Showcase Innovative Research in Human Genetics - Business Wire

Cell Biology

Researchers claim that ayahuasca tea helps the formation of new neurons – CT Post

Researchers claim that ayahuasca tea helps the formation of new neurons

Have you tried ayahuasca tea? A study led by researchers from the Complutense University of Madrid ( UCM ) found that the Amazonian drink traditionally used by shamans contributes to the formation of new neurons.

The study groups together the results of a four-year "in vitro" and "in vivo" experimentation carried out in mice, subjects that demonstrated greater cognitive capacity when treated with dimethyltryptamine (DMT), one of the components of ayahuasca, according to with Jos Antonio Lpez, researcher at the Faculty of Psychology of the Complutense University and co-author of the work.

Ayahuasca is obtained from a mixture between two Amazonian plants, the ayahuasca vine (Banisteriopsis caapi) and the chacruna bush (Psychotria viridis). "In ayahuasca, DMT binds to a type 2A serotonergic brain receptor, and that is when its hallucinogenic effect is enhanced. In this research, this binding is made with another receptor, sigma type, which does not have these effects. "Which greatly facilitates its future administration to patients," they explain in the study report.

According to Jos ngel Morales, researcher at the Department of Cell Biology of the UCM and the Center for Research in Network of Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), the ability to modulate brain plasticity is an indication of a great therapeutic potential for a wide range of psychiatric disorders and neurological.

The death of certain neurons generates the symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, the researchers said. However, the human being is capable of generating new neuronal cells but this always depends on other factors.

The challenge for scientists will be to activate the brain's ability to develop new neurons to replace those that die in people with neurodegenerative diseases.

"Ayahuasca" means "liana or rope of the spirits" and is used by South American shamans as traditional medicine in the Amazonian peoples.

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Researchers claim that ayahuasca tea helps the formation of new neurons - CT Post