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,
Health
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
In the battle against drug-resistant bacterial infections, a groundbreaking discovery has emerged from the labs at Uppsala University in Sweden. Scientists have unveiled a new class of antibiotics that specifically target gram-negative bacteria, such as Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. These types of bacteria are notorious for their double membrane structure, which poses a significant
Alzheimer’s disease is a growing concern in the aging population, with researchers constantly exploring new ways to reduce the risk of cognitive decline. One recent study has shed light on the potential benefits of ketogenic diets in delaying the early stages of Alzheimer’s-related memory loss. A key finding of the study led by the University
Recent studies have shed light on the alarming connection between explosive weapons training in the military and potential brain injuries caused by blast waves. While it has long been assumed that being a ‘safe’ distance away from the blast zone protects individuals, a new study suggests otherwise. Researchers have found that exposure to repetitive, low-level
A recent global research effort conducted by the International Brain pH Project Consortium has shed light on the relationship between metabolism problems in the brain and a range of neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. These disorders include autism, Alzheimer’s disease, depression, epilepsy, schizophrenia, intellectual disability, and bipolar disorder. Despite the diverse symptoms associated with these conditions,
The hype surrounding weight-loss drugs like Ozempic often leads to unrealistic expectations of their effectiveness in combating obesity. While initial studies may show promising results in terms of weight loss percentages, the long-term implications and variations in individual responses are often overlooked. Not everyone will experience the same level of weight loss, and some may
Recent clinical trials have brought to light a potential new treatment for Parkinson’s disease in the form of fecal microbiota transplants (FMTs). The transfer of healthy bacteria from donors to patients has shown promising results in improving motoric symptoms associated with the disease. These symptoms include tremors and balance issues, which improved significantly in early-stage
The fight against obesity has been ongoing for years, with researchers constantly seeking new ways to address this global health crisis. One recent study conducted by scientists in China has shed light on the potential benefits of intermittent calorie restriction in altering both the gut microbiome and brain activity, offering a new avenue for managing
The prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease is higher in women compared to men, with two out of every three individuals with the condition being female in the US. While this could be attributed to the fact that women generally live longer than men, recent research suggests a more complex relationship between hormones and gut microbiome alterations.
