Recent research has uncovered a fascinating connection between specific genes and protection against excessive drinking. The study, which analyzed over 3.2 million DNA records, focused on single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that have previously been associated with a decreased risk of alcohol use disorders (AUDs). One interesting finding was that individuals with certain genetic variants may experience
Health
The recent report from infectious disease specialists at the Amsterdam University Medical Center in The Netherlands reveals a startling case of a 72-year-old immunocompromised man who battled COVID-19 for 613 days before succumbing to the virus. This case serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by those with weakened immune systems when it
A recent case in Belgium has brought attention to a very rare metabolic condition known as auto-brewery syndrome (ABS). This condition causes the body to produce alcohol internally, leading to signs of intoxication without actually consuming alcohol. The 40-year-old man involved in this case was charged with drink-driving but was able to prove in court
The study conducted by a team of researchers from the US and Japan suggests that patients treated by female physicians have better health outcomes compared to those treated by male physicians. While the study does not delve deep into the reasons behind this difference, it aligns with previous research showing similar conclusions. The disparity in
Time-restricted eating (TRE) has been gaining popularity as a potential weight loss strategy. However, a recent study comparing TRE with a usual eating pattern (UEP) suggests that the key factor behind weight loss may be the reduction in overall food intake rather than the impact of daily fasting periods. This finding raises important questions about
In a recent study, researchers analyzed data from the UK Biobank to explore the relationship between sleep duration and type 2 diabetes risk. They found that people who slept less than six hours a night had a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The study followed 247,867 adults over a decade and looked at
The menstrual cycle is a natural process that affects women throughout their reproductive years. However, the impact of hormones on the brain during this time is not well understood. A recent study led by neuroscientists Elizabeth Rizor and Viktoriya Babenko of the University of California Santa Barbara sheds light on the structural changes that take
Psychosis is a condition that involves disconnections from reality, such as hallucinations and delusions. It can occur independently or as a part of disorders like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Researchers at Stanford University have identified dysfunctions in specific brain systems that play a role in psychosis. Understanding these brain systems and how they contribute to
A recent study conducted by researchers from Washington State University and the University of Oregon has brought to light a phenomenon termed ‘bacterial vampirism’. This intriguing discovery reveals the unique ability of certain types of bacteria to be drawn to human blood. These bacteria are particularly enticed by serum, the liquid component of our blood,
The spinal cord, often overlooked in favor of the brain, plays a crucial role in not only relaying sensory information but also in controlling motor responses. While the brain is generally seen as the command center for movement, recent studies have shown that the spinal cord is far more complex than previously believed. It contains
The association between menstrual cycles and lunar phases has been a long-standing belief in various cultures around the world. The average cycle time of 29.3 days bears a striking resemblance to the 29.5-day cycle of the Moon’s phases. While some may dismiss this correlation as mere coincidence or magical thinking, researchers from France and the
Psychedelics have been gaining popularity within scientific communities and among the general public due to their potential therapeutic benefits. These powerful substances have the ability to alter perception, mood, and various mental processes. However, when it comes to individuals with personality disorders, using psychedelics may pose certain risks that need to be carefully considered. A
In the world of healthcare, infections acquired during a hospital stay have long been associated with superbugs lurking in healthcare facilities. However, recent genetic data has revealed a different story. It turns out that the majority of health care-associated infections are actually caused by harmless bacteria that patients already have on their bodies before they
The eyes have long been considered a window into the brain, providing valuable insights into one’s cognitive health. Recent research has shown that visual issues can serve as early indicators of cognitive decline, with the potential to predict dementia years before a formal diagnosis is made. A study conducted in Norfolk, England, followed 8,623 participants
While many may view eye infections as minor inconveniences, they can actually be quite serious and even life-threatening. An outbreak of antibiotic resistant bacteria Burkholderia cepacia in 2023-24 serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of eye infections. Contaminated eye gel led to at least 52 infections, one of which was fatal. This