Exercise has long been touted as a key component of a healthy lifestyle, but recent studies have shown that extreme exercise, such as running 10 hours a week for over 120 km (75 miles), may have unexpected benefits on longevity. Contrary to popular belief, pushing the body to its limits could actually add years to
Health
A recent study conducted by neuroscientist Shahar Bracha and her team at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology has shed light on the potential of Toxoplasma gondii, a common parasite, as a means of delivering therapeutic proteins to the brain. This groundbreaking research has demonstrated that T. gondii, known for its ability to cross the blood-brain
The human brain is an intricate system that is bound to experience failures as it ages. Detecting whether memory decline is a result of typical aging or a sign of something more serious like dementia can be a challenging task. Often, specialists are faced with the dilemma of not having access to advanced technology that
A recent study conducted by the National Institutes of Health has revealed a concerning increase in both hospital-acquired infections and antibiotic resistance within healthcare facilities across the United States. The data, collected from 120 hospitals between January 2018 and December 2022, provides insight into the growing challenges faced by both patients and healthcare providers. Dr.
In recent years, there has been a shift in the trend of people delaying parenthood. Many reasons contribute to this decision, with one major concern being the decline in female fertility after the age of 35. As women age, their ovarian reserve diminishes, leading to difficulties in conceiving. Despite this, researchers conducting an ongoing clinical
In a recent study, researchers have uncovered a significant link between inflammation and impaired motor function in fruit flies. This discovery has implications for the treatment of muscle fatigue following infections, particularly in the context of long COVID. Aaron Johnson, a developmental biologist at Washington University, explains that the reduction in energy levels in skeletal
The study led by researchers from the University of California Davis sheds light on the complexities of opioid receptors and how little we truly understand about how these drugs operate within the brain. While the general public may associate opioids with drugs like heroin and fentanyl, the human body has its own opioid system that
In recent years, there has been a shift in consumer behavior towards reducing the consumption of sugary soft drinks for the sake of public health. This change is certainly a step in the right direction, considering the well-documented health risks associated with high sugar intake. However, the rise of diet soft drinks as an alternative
In the realm of genetics, viruses can often leave behind traces of their DNA within our genomes, which can potentially be passed down through generations. Previously believed to be dormant, these remnants of viral DNA have now been discovered to have the ability to be reactivated, leading to various negative consequences. Researchers, such as bioinformatician
There has been a recent surge of concern over the impact of blue light from electronic devices on our skin. While the evidence is still emerging, there are some interesting findings that suggest blue light can potentially harm our skin in various ways. Studies have shown that exposure to blue light can stimulate the production
A recent study led by psychologist Tim Stockwell and epidemiologist Jinhui Zhao from the University of Victoria in Canada has cast doubt on the idea that alcohol consumption in moderation can be good for you, and even extend your life. The team conducted a meta-analysis of 107 scientific studies that investigated the association between alcohol
Hair loss is a common issue that affects both men and women worldwide, with hereditary-patterned baldness being the most prevalent cause. Scientists at the University of Sheffield and COMSATS University in Pakistan recently made an accidental discovery that could potentially revolutionize the treatment of this condition. The scientists were initially conducting research on deoxyribose sugar,
The placebo effect has long been a topic of intrigue for scientists as it offers the possibility of pain relief without the use of drugs or surgery. This phenomenon relies heavily on the expectations of individuals that their pain will diminish, despite the absence of any actual medical intervention. Recently, a team of researchers led
A recent study conducted by researchers from the Duke-National University of Singapore (NUS) Medical School has shed light on the role of a protein called interleukin 11 (IL-11) in the aging process. The study revealed that by blocking the effects of IL-11, the lifespan of mice was extended by up to 25 percent. This breakthrough
Mindfulness, a Buddhist-based meditation practice that focuses on being aware of the present moment, has been around for over 1,500 years. The Dharmatrāta Meditation Scripture, dating back to ancient India, describes various practices and even mentions symptoms of depression and anxiety that can result from meditation. Despite its long history, scientific research on mindfulness has