Can the universe afford inflation?

Universe reheating after inflation.

We study the problem of scalar particle production after inflation by an in-flaton field which is oscillating rapidly relative to the expansion of the universe. We use the framework of the chaotic inflation scenario with quartic and quadratic inflaton potentials. Particles produced are described by a quantum scalar field χ, which is coupled to the inflaton via linear and quadratic couplings. Th...

Can transgenic mosquitoes afford the fitness cost?

In a recent study, SM1-transgenic Anopheles stephensi, which are resistant partially to Plasmodium berghei, had higher fitness than non-transgenic mosquitoes when they were maintained on Plasmodium-infected blood. This result should be interpreted cautiously with respect to malaria control using transgenic mosquitoes because, despite the evolutionary advantage conferred by the transgene, a conc...

Can we afford the war on cancer?

Immunotherapy vaccines could extend survival in a handful of cancers. But personalizing treatment, payers argue, is not sustainable. Where should the line be drawn?

Can China afford rapid aging?

China's rapid aging has caused widespread concern, but it seems that the situations and consequences of rapid aging are not adequately acknowledged. This study analyzed the problem of ageing in China from the aspects of elderly people's health status, income source, daily care, suicide, the weak social security system in terms of pension, health expenses, and long-term care costs as well as inc...

Can the Poor Afford Microcredit ? Jonathan