Recent research conducted by neuroscientists at Imperial College London challenges the widely accepted notion that sleep helps flush out toxins and waste from the brain. Nick Franks, one of the study’s co-leaders, expressed surprise at the results, stating that the field has been overly focused on the clearance idea as a reason for why we
The threat of antibiotic resistance continues to grow as pathogens evolve and become more adept at defending themselves against traditional treatments. This poses a serious public health concern, especially with certain bacteria being classified as critical by the World Health Organization due to their high levels of resistance. Finding new types of antibiotics is crucial
The discovery of WASP-193b, an exoplanet located 1,232 light-years away, has left scientists scratching their heads. This peculiar world, which is nearly 50 percent larger than Jupiter, has a density equivalent to that of cotton candy. With just over 1 percent of the density of Earth, WASP-193b is a true outlier in the realm of
Perseverance, the rover launched in July 2020, has been on a mission to explore the Jezero Crater on Mars, a location believed to have once been home to an ancient lake. The rover has spent 1000 days collecting samples from different geological areas within the crater in the hopes of finding evidence of ancient, fossilized
Recent research has highlighted the connection between experiencing stressful life events, such as the death of a loved one or divorce, and the increased risk of developing dementia later in life. However, this risk is particularly significant if these stressful events occur during childhood or midlife. The study conducted by researchers involved analyzing spinal fluid
The increasing trend of cannabis use among breastfeeding parents in the US has raised concerns about the potential risks and consequences for newborns. A recent observational study has shed light on the presence of THC, the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, in breast milk up to 12 hours after maternal consumption. However, the uncertainty surrounding
A recent solar flare sent an energetic wave of particles towards Earth, resulting in a spectacular display of auroras that could be seen in both hemispheres. This surge in auroral activity was a rare treat for sky gazers worldwide, with sightings as far south as Hawaii and as far north as Mackay. With the Sun
Brown fat, also known as brown adipose tissue, plays a crucial role in burning calories to generate heat within the body. Unlike white fat, which is mainly used for insulation, brown fat is filled with mitochondria that act as energy centers. The primary function of brown fat is to burn blood sugar and fat in
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, claiming more than 10 million lives each year. The secret to combating cancer lies in early detection and effective treatment. The challenge, however, is that cancer often operates stealthily. A recent study has uncovered a groundbreaking method to identify cancer “fingerprints” at an atomic level,
The recent findings published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences have shed light on the alarming rate at which atmospheric carbon dioxide levels are increasing. According to the study, the current rate of increase is 10 times faster than any other point in the past 50,000 years. This unprecedented speed of change
Making the decision to withdraw life support from a loved one who has suffered a traumatic brain injury is undoubtedly one of the most challenging choices a person may ever have to face. The uncertainty surrounding recovery from severe head trauma adds an extra layer of complexity to an already difficult situation. Doctors often struggle
When we embark on a journey in our cars, we rarely stop to consider the potential risks involved. However, recent research has unveiled a startling reality – 99 percent of car cabins tested in vehicles manufactured in the US since 2015 contain dangerous materials. These materials, designed to meet flame retardant safety standards, may actually
In a recent deposition reviewed by the New York Times, independent US presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. disclosed a harrowing experience involving a parasitic infection in his brain. Initially, doctors suspected a brain tumor due to cognitive difficulties he was experiencing. However, it was later discovered to be a pork tapeworm larva (Taenia solium)
In a groundbreaking announcement in late April 2024, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency revealed its plan to reclassify cannabis from a Schedule I drug to a less restricted Schedule III substance. This shift, which places cannabis in the same category as drugs like Tylenol with codeine and anabolic steroids, reflects a significant acknowledgement of the
Every so often, the Earth is treated to a magnificent display of green and red lights that paint the night skies. These spectacular lights are the result of solar storms, massive outflows of material from the Sun that collide with our magnetic field. While solar storms are not uncommon, the current storms have been particularly
