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Lust or Love: Understanding the Origin of Love
Human beings show a range of emotional attachment, affection, and infatuation often referred to as “love.” Love promotes long-lasting and secure relationships that involve nurturing and support. Biological mechanisms underlying such behavior involve ancient neuropeptides and their receptors in the brain. These systems are also involved in reproduction, ranging from mating and pair-bonding, to giving…
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Crunching Numbers to Test the Limits of Computers
Mathematics is a universal language that helps us understand and describe the world through logic and problem-solving. It shapes the technology we use daily, from smartphones and computers to the sensors in our cars. As computer technology rapidly evolves, artificial intelligence is pushing the boundaries even further—enabling faster access to information and smarter decision-making. But…
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Unlocking the Future of Aging
What if the key to longevity is already within us? In a fascinating talk, Michael J. Corley, Ph.D., dives into cutting-edge research on aging, the role of ancient viruses in our DNA, and how simple lifestyle changes can have a profound impact on our health. Dr. Corley explores the intricate connection between our gut microbiome…
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Art Meets Scientific Discovery
“There were moments when I wondered, ‘What am I doing?’” That’s Ron Miriello, a San Diego artist and graphic designer, reflecting on his passion project, Found Adrift. This art installation is inspired by a scrapbook of seaweed created in the 1870s by a young woman in Searsport, Maine. He says he had to silence his…
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Velvet Vocals and Smooth Vibes
Known for expressing feelings of love, passion, and heartache… you will feel the smooth R&B rhythms of Kevin Flournoy as he takes the Guggenheim Theater stage at UC San Diego’s Park & Market and hits you with emotional depth and soulful lyrics in this latest performance of the Intersections Concert Series. An unstoppable behind-the-scenes force…
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Feeling Anxious? You’re Not Alone
“I want to begin with the bad news.” That’s how Jaime Pineda, professor emeritus of cognitive science at UC San Diego, opened his recent talk at the Geisel Library. “The bad news is that many surveys have been done asking people whether there is a mental crisis in the U.S. Specifically, they ask if people…
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The Intersection of Science and Art
What if art could shape the way we think about the future—our brains, our environment, and even artificial intelligence? In her latest exhibition Synaptic Sculpture at ICA, Pinar Yoldas,Ph.D., explores these questions through a stunning fusion of digital tools, biotechnology, and speculative design. From sculptures that mirror the brain’s evolving neural connections to AI-driven storytelling…
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The Great Transformation – Reimagining Our Institutions
Veteran political strategist Mike Madrid wasn’t surprised by the outcome of the 2024 presidential race. He’s been studying the nation’s politics and demographics for decades. “The election outcomes […] are part of a longer-term transformation of American [and] global society as we become fully ensconced in the digital age.,” he said during the Helen Edison…
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Israel and Palestine: Peace or Continued Conflict?
The tentative cease-fire between Israel and Hamas is a welcome relief to many Israelis and Palestinians after more than 15 months of war. By all accounts, both sides have suffered great trauma – from the armed attack by Hamas on Israeli soil in October, 2023, which killed 1,200 Israelis and resulted in the taking of…
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Navigating SCN8A Epilepsy: A Scientist’s Personal Fight
Being a parent often brings unexpected challenges, but for Dr. Madeline Oudin, the journey has been especially profound. As both a scientist and a mother, she is navigating uncharted territory to help her daughter Margot, who was born with SCN8A-related epilepsy. This rare genetic condition causes severe seizures and developmental challenges, profoundly affecting Margot’s daily…