The latest neurobiological research is revealing important and influential neural pathways between the brain to organ systems, indicating the potential power of mind-body medicine.

By comparing the genetic sequence of right-handers versus left-handers, we have uncovered regions in the genome that are linked to an increased chance of being left-handed. These genetic variations alter the white matter tracts that link regions of the brain related to language, and the same regions in the right and left brain hemispheres of left-handers communicate in a more coordinated way.

As COVID-19 is raging worldwide, mathematical models tailored to the pandemic suggest the most effective interventions to contain the contagion. Physical distancing and lockdown, indispensable at an early stage, can be combined with testing and contact tracing, crucial to relieve lockdown measures safely and possibly end the epidemic faster.

In December 2018, a tsunami took 437 lives and injured 33,000 on the beaches of Sumatra and Java without warning. What can be done to provide a warning for such events? Real-time analysis of long-period ground motions could have determined that a sudden flank collapse of erupting Anak Krakatau volcano was potentially tsunamigenic, giving a basis for tsunami warning.

Increased regularity of sleep-wake patterns and more sleep: The ‘lockdown’-induced relaxation of social schedules had positive effects on people’s sleep. However, not everyone slept well in this unprecedented situation.

Millions of Egyptian Sacred Ibis were found mummified and stored in vast catacombs. Thoth priests sold the mummified Ibis to pilgrims for offerings. Did they mass farmed the Ibises? Our analysis of the bird’s DNA did not identify the tell-tale genetic signs of farming. Priests tamed Ibises by feeding them.