Tag: Global and Health Briefs | Natural Awakenings Twin Cities

Magnesium To Prevent Kidney Stones

Dec 31, 2024 08:11AM

A study in the Natural Medicine Journal reveals magnesium citrate may reduce kidney stone risk by lowering urine oxalate levels and calcium oxalate supersaturation.

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Age-Related Balance Issues Studied

Dec 31, 2024 08:11AM

A PLOS ONE study highlights the one-legged balance test as a key indicator of fall risk in seniors, with declines linked to aging. Balancing for under 5 seconds signals higher danger.

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Disadvantages of Food Pouches for Children

Dec 31, 2024 08:11AM

Food pouches for kids are convenient but may impact nutrition, dental health, and speech development, and promote aversions to natural foods. Experts urge mindful use and variety.

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Homeopathic Treatment for COVID-19

Dec 31, 2024 08:11AM

A clinical audit found individualized homeopathy treatments helped 70% of COVID-19 patients recover, with most cases resolving within 21 days and no adverse reactions reported.

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man coughing with Cannabis-Related Syndrome Double

Cases of Cannabis-Related Syndrome Double

Dec 31, 2024 08:11AM

Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), linked to chronic marijuana use, affects 2.75 million Americans annually, causing severe nausea, dehydration, and rising ER visits.

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Dire State of Earth’s Ice and Snow

Dec 31, 2024 08:01AM ● By Kris Urquhart

A COP29 report warns of alarming ice loss worldwide, including Greenland shedding 30M tons per hour and disappearing glaciers in Europe. Experts call for urgent fossil fuel phase-out.

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Drones Reveal Lost Cities

Dec 31, 2024 08:01AM

New research reveals two ancient high-altitude cities in Uzbekistan, challenging assumptions about Silk Road trade routes avoiding Central Asia's mountains.

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Ambient Photonics creates solar cells powered by indoor light

Innovations in Photonics

Dec 31, 2024 08:01AM

Photonics innovations are reshaping technology: Ambient Photonics creates solar cells powered by indoor light, while Slux uses streetlights for high-speed internet communication.

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Smart Traffic Signals

Dec 31, 2024 08:01AM

Smart traffic lights reduce CO2 emissions by up to 40% and cut wait times by 95%, as shown in a 2023 study. Cities like Butler County, Ohio, are adopting this AI-powered technology.

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Elephants Alleviate Climate Change

Dec 31, 2024 08:01AM

African forest elephants are vital climate allies, boosting carbon capture through seed dispersal and habitat shaping. Protecting these critically endangered animals is key to combating climate change.

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Paul Stamets is Spreading the Mycelial Message

Dec 01, 2024 02:40PM ● By Host Defense Mushrooms

Sponsored Content Renowned Mycologist, Paul Stamets, is an industry leader in fungi production, habitat, and research who has made it his life’s work to bridge the divide between people and mushrooms for health of humans and the planet.

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Service Dogs Benefit Veterans With Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Nov 29, 2024 08:11AM

A study of veterans with PTSD found those with trained psychiatric service dogs showed reduced symptoms, lower anxiety, and better social functioning.

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Acupuncture for Shingles

Nov 29, 2024 08:11AM

Acupuncture shows promise as a safe, effective treatment for shingles, easing pain and reducing skin lesions, according to a review of 59 trials with nearly 4,000 patients.

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Wet Cupping Therapy for Asthma

Nov 29, 2024 08:11AM

Wet cupping therapy may improve respiratory symptoms in mild to moderate asthma, offering a complementary option alongside standard treatments, a Turkish study suggests.

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Stem-Cell Treatment To Reverse Type 1 Diabetes

Nov 29, 2024 08:11AM ● By Kris Urquhart

A phase 1 trial shows promise for reversing Type 1 diabetes: a patient produced insulin independently after stem-cell therapy, remaining injection-free for a year.

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Mindfulness App Helps Intensive Care Patients

Nov 29, 2024 08:11AM

A mobile app-based mindfulness program, including guided meditations and symptom management, significantly eased psychological distress in ICU survivors, a study finds.

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Artificial Beaver Dams Protect Wildlife

Nov 29, 2024 08:01AM

Artificial beaver dams, mimicking nature’s designs, are revitalizing the Northern Great Plains, restoring ecosystems, improving soil and water, and even attracting real beavers.

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Sweat Monitor Measures Overexertion

Nov 29, 2024 08:01AM

A smart elastic band from Northwestern University tracks muscle exertion by analyzing sweat acidity, helping users optimize workouts and prevent soreness.

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Linking Biodiversity to Human Health

Nov 29, 2024 08:01AM

Biodiversity loss has human costs: a study links declining bat populations to increased pesticide use and higher infant mortality, highlighting nature's role in health and agriculture.

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Funny but Serious Science

Nov 29, 2024 08:01AM

The Ig Nobel Prizes celebrated quirky science: researchers showed mammals can breathe through their anuses, and a plant that mimics plastic leaves, sparking laughter and curiosity.

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Microplastics Found in Part of the Brain

Oct 31, 2024 08:11AM

A study published in JAMA Network Open found microplastics in the olfactory bulb of the brain in eight out of 15 individuals. This raises concerns about the potential for plastics to reach the brain.

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Cardiometabolic Benefits of Caffeine

Oct 31, 2024 08:11AM

A study in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that moderate caffeine intake (200-300 mg daily) significantly lowers the risk of cardiometabolic disease, with coffee drinkers experiencing up to a 50 percent risk reduction.

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Homeopathy for Arm Fracture

Oct 31, 2024 08:11AM

A case report in Integrative Medicine Reports describes a 53-year-old patient who healed a fractured humerus using homeopathy with Symphytum officinale. X-rays showed healing after two weeks, and full recovery occurred in six weeks.

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Physiological Response to Spirituality

Oct 31, 2024 08:11AM

A 2023 study in Integrative Medicine Reports found that an eight-week wellness program improved heart rate variability (HRV) in college students, suggesting enhanced stress recovery and spiritual well-being. Further research is needed.

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E. coli Linked to Urinary Tract Infections

Oct 31, 2024 08:11AM

A 2023 study by George Washington University links 640,000 U.S. UTIs to E. coli in meat. Proper kitchen hygiene and cooking meat to recommended temperatures can reduce the risk of foodborne infections.

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New Findings About Dinosaur-Killing Asteroid

Oct 31, 2024 08:01AM

Scientists in Europe and the U.S. discovered that the asteroid responsible for the dinosaur extinction 66 million years ago likely originated beyond Jupiter's orbit. Rich in water and carbon, it was unique among Earth-impacting asteroids.

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Female Sharks Found Sleeping on a Seabed

Oct 31, 2024 08:01AM

Scientists from the University of Tasmania discovered thousands of female Port Jackson sharks sleeping on the seabed in Beagle Commonwealth Marine Reserve. The reason for their gathering is unclear, but one theory suggests they were feeding on scallops before laying eggs.

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Decreasing Birth Rates Concern Countries

Oct 31, 2024 08:01AM

The 2022 World Bank data shows declining birth rates, with South Korea's at less than 0.8, the lowest among wealthy countries. Rising dog ownership and declining childbirth prompted President Yoon to declare a "demographic national emergency."

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Construction Blocks Marine Life Movement

Oct 31, 2024 08:01AM

Karissa Lear, an aquatic ecologist, observed that manmade structures in Western Australia disrupted young green sawfish migration. She suggests that marine animals need assistance navigating human infrastructure, similar to wildlife bridges and fish ladders, to support ocean sustainability.

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Making Hospice Care Sustainable

Oct 31, 2024 08:01AM

The hospice industry is embracing sustainability, with providers like Agrace Hospice and Amedisys aiming for carbon neutrality and reduced emissions. These initiatives align with hospice missions, enhancing community impact and promoting long-term ecological responsibility.

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Forever Chemicals Linked to Metabolic Disease

Sep 30, 2024 08:15AM

A study linked early-life exposure to the chemical TCFD in mice to permanent gut microbiome changes and increased risk of metabolic diseases like obesity and Type 2 diabetes.

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Toxic Metals Found in Tampons

Sep 30, 2024 08:14AM

A study in Environment International found all 16 tested metals, including lead and arsenic, in tampons from various brands.

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New Blood Test for Alzheimer's Disease

Sep 30, 2024 08:13AM

A promising blood test developed by C2N Diagnostics can detect Alzheimer’s with 91% accuracy, significantly more reliable than current diagnostic methods.

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nasal cavity inhaling synthetic protein PHDP5

Synthetic Protein May Slow Alzheimer’s Progression

Sep 30, 2024 08:12AM

Researchers discovered that the synthetic protein PHDP5 can slow cognitive decline in mice with Alzheimer’s by preventing tau from disrupting brain communication.

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Evening Primrose May Ease Childbirth

Sep 30, 2024 08:11AM

A study in Complementary Medicine Research found that vaginal capsules of evening primrose oil may safely and effectively assist cervical ripening in low-risk, full-term pregnancies.

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Ocean Noise Pollution

Sep 30, 2024 08:05AM

Increased shipping and climate change are contributing to higher levels of ocean noise, disrupting marine life.

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Space Sailing

Sep 30, 2024 08:04AM

NASA’s solar sail system, powered by sunlight, could replace traditional propulsion, offering constant acceleration.

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Scouts Save Life Mid-Flight

Sep 30, 2024 08:03AM

On a Southwest Airlines flight, scouts helped perform CPR for 40 minutes, aiding doctors and nurses to save a passenger’s life.

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European Union Bans Mercury Dental Filings

Sep 30, 2024 08:02AM

Starting in 2025, the EU will ban mercury dental amalgams for all ages, citing health risks, especially for vulnerable groups.

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Studying Animals From Space

Sep 30, 2024 08:01AM

In 2025, five small satellites will be launched to track animal movements and environmental data from space to improve understanding of migration and environmental impacts on wildlife.

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Standardizing Acupuncture for Erectile Dysfunction

Sep 02, 2024 08:41AM ● By Natural Awakenings Magazine

Acupuncture has long been used as a treatment with fewer potential side effects than pharmaceutical treatments for men's health.

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Contrast Therapy Benefits for Muscles

Sep 02, 2024 08:29AM ● By Jordan Peschek

Research shows that alternating between hot and cold extremes helps this process by soothing muscles, stimulating blood flow, increasing dopamine and reducing inflammation.

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Microbiome and Addictive Eating

Aug 30, 2024 08:21AM

Low levels of beneficial bacteria and high levels of harmful bacteria may influence compulsive eating behavior.

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Childhood Diet Linked to Long-Term Cognitive Health

Aug 30, 2024 08:21AM

A study tracking participants since 1946 found that a high-quality diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains is strongly linked to better cognitive abilities as we age.

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Cause of Lupus Discovered

Aug 30, 2024 08:11AM

Researchers have identified a molecular defect that triggers lupus and are working on reprogramming cells to correct the immune response.

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Camembert and Brie Cheese Risk Extinction

Aug 30, 2024 08:01AM

The biodiversity decline of fungi used in traditional cheeses like camembert and brie threatens their future, as lab-engineered fungi lose their natural reproductive abilities and resilience.

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Climate Change Impacts on Earth’s Rotation

Aug 30, 2024 08:01AM

Melting polar ice caps are delaying the need to delete a second from our clocks due to Earth's changing rotation speed, pushing the deadline to 2028 or 2029.

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Siberian Explosions Explained

Aug 30, 2024 08:01AM

Mysterious craters in Siberia are likely caused by gas explosions due to warming Arctic temperatures weakening the frozen soil, a phenomenon linked to geological faults under ancient lakes.

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Unconventional Superconductor Found in Nature

Aug 30, 2024 08:01AM

Scientists have identified miassite as the first unconventional superconductor found in nature, capable of conducting electricity without resistance at higher temperatures.

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Rare Frog-Faced Turtle Found in India

Aug 30, 2024 08:01AM

Scientists discovered a breeding population of the critically endangered Asian giant softshell turtle in India's Chandragiri River, offering new hope for conservation efforts.

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Western Diet and Colorectal Cancer

Jul 31, 2024 08:15AM

Ohio State University researchers link the Western diet to increased colorectal cancer risk due to gut bacteria imbalance and inflammation, emphasizing a shift to plant-based diets.

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Natural Remedy for Radiation-Induced Dermatitis

Jul 31, 2024 08:14AM

A study shows Alantel cream, with aloe vera, chamomile, and thyme, significantly reduces lesions and dermatitis duration in breast cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy.

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Harmful Chemicals in Decaffeinated Coffee

Jul 31, 2024 08:13AM

Environmental groups urge the FDA to ban cancer-causing chemicals in decaf coffee production. Safer methods exist, and consumers can check decaffeination processes on CheckYourDecaf.org.

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Lifestyle, Nutrition and Bone Density

Jul 31, 2024 08:11AM

A study shows that adequate vitamin D, physical activity, and proper nutrition significantly improve bone mineral density in premenopausal women, impacting bone health later in life.

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Fungi Carbon Capture

Jul 31, 2024 08:05AM

Kew Gardens' research on fungi reveals their crucial role in carbon sequestration. Understanding fungi-plant relationships can enhance reforestation efforts and combat climate change.

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Refreezing the Arctic

Jul 31, 2024 08:04AM

Geoengineers are testing methods to slow Arctic ice melt, including creating protective ice layers and scattering reflective glass beads, to combat rapid warming and its global impact.

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Designer Handbags Use Mushroom Leather

Jul 31, 2024 08:03AM

MycoWorks uses mycelium, the root structure of fungi, to create sustainable, customizable leather alternatives. This biodegradable material is already featured in Hermes designer handbags.

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Environmental Realities of Detergent Sheets and Pods

Jul 31, 2024 08:02AM

Laundry detergent sheets contain PVA, which doesn't fully biodegrade, adding to microplastic pollution. Despite eco-friendly claims, most PVAs from detergent pods end up polluting the environment.

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Drought at the Panama Canal

Jul 31, 2024 08:01AM

The Panama Canal faces severe drought, causing shipping restrictions, delays, and increased greenhouse gas emissions. Water recycling to maintain lake levels threatens drinking water supply.

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Asbestos in Cosmetics

Jul 31, 2024 04:09AM

British women sue U.S. cosmetic companies over asbestos-contaminated talc causing cancer. J&J faces 54,000 lawsuits, revealing long-known risks of asbestos in talc-based products.

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Sperm Defy Newton’s Law of Motion

Jun 28, 2024 08:11AM

Research from Kyoto University reveals that sperm and single-celled algae defy Newton's third law of motion by using whip-like tails and flagella to move through viscous fluids.

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Pregnancy Adds to Women’s Biological Age

Jun 28, 2024 08:11AM

A study by Columbia University found that pregnancy accelerates women's biological aging. Men in the study showed no such aging acceleration.

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Detecting Cancer Early

Jun 28, 2024 08:11AM

Cambridge University's Early Cancer Institute, with an $11.7 million donation, is advancing early cancer detection. The goal is to improve early detection and treatment efficacy.

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In Vivo Gene Editing

Jun 28, 2024 08:11AM

Gene editing inside the body is being tested to treat diseases by targeting problematic genes directly.

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New Bathroom Tech to Monitor Health

Jun 28, 2024 08:11AM

Innovative bathroom technology is integrating health monitoring features in smart toilets, AI-powered mirrors and smart floor sensors.

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Remnants of Another Planet in Earth’s Mantle

Jun 28, 2024 08:01AM

Scientists using computer modeling have found that remnants of a Mars-sized protoplanet, which collided with Earth 4.5 billion years ago, are buried in the Earth's mantle.

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Coffee Alternatives

Jun 28, 2024 08:01AM

Companies are developing bean-less coffee alternatives using ingredients like lupin beans, chickpeas, chicory, date seeds, and fermentation byproducts.

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Acknowledging Animal Consciousness

Jun 28, 2024 08:01AM

Scientists assert that many animals experience sensations and feelings emphasizing the importance of considering animal consciousness in welfare decisions.

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Wild Orangutan Treats Own Wound

Jun 28, 2024 08:01AM

A wild Sumatran orangutan was observed treating its own facial wound with medicinal plants. This first documented case of animal self-care offers insight into the origins of human wound treatment

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Mammoth Pollution Vacuum

Jun 28, 2024 08:01AM

The world’s largest pollution vacuum captures 36,000 tons of CO2 annually, aiming for 1 million tons by 2030 and 1 billion by 2050.

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hands holding microplastics from the ocean

Microplastics in Placentas

May 30, 2024 08:16AM

A University of New Mexico study found nano- and microplastics in all 62 tested placenta samples, including polyethylene from water bottles and bags.

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Being a Successful Couple

May 30, 2024 08:15AM

Drs. John and Julie Gottman found that successful couples excel at making "repairs"—simple, mundane gestures that reaffirm their partner's importance.

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New Recommendations for Concussion Treatment

May 30, 2024 08:13AM

Research and the Consensus Statement on Concussion in Sport now advocate for active rehabilitation, emphasizing light activity and daily routines to promote recovery.

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Familiar Smells Unlock Memories

May 30, 2024 08:12AM

A study in JAMA Network Open reveals that odors help people with major depressive disorder recall more vivid and specific personal memories than words.

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Chemist working with samples and testing

New Limits on ‘Forever Chemicals’ in Drinking Water

May 30, 2024 08:11AM

The EPA has set the first national drinking water standard to reduce exposure to toxic PFAS chemicals.

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Mystery of Mima Mounds

May 30, 2024 08:05AM

Nestled between Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens, the Mima Mounds are a mysterious grassland expanse with formations up to seven feet tall, their origin remains unsolved.

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Mass Bleaching at the Great Barrier Reef

May 30, 2024 08:04AM

The Great Barrier Reef faces its fifth mass bleaching since 2016 due to unusually warm waters, compounded by a 2023 El Niño effect.

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World’s Oldest Forest Discovered in England

May 30, 2024 08:03AM

Cambridge scientists discovered a 390-million-year-old fossil forest in southwest England, featuring the oldest known woody root systems.

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Making Concrete Green

May 30, 2024 08:02AM

Concrete, the second most used substance globally, produces 7% of carbon emissions. Startups are innovating low-CO2 cement solutions.

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Warming Climate May Change Forests

May 30, 2024 08:01AM

Rising temperatures disrupt the internal clocks of lenga beech trees in the Andes, causing genetic changes and stunted growth.

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Low-Dose Calcium Supplementation in Pregnancy

Apr 29, 2024 08:15AM

Low-dose calcium supplementation is as effective as high-dose in reducing preeclampsia risk. Findings from trials in India and Tanzania.

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Treating Fibromyalgia with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Apr 29, 2024 08:14AM

CBT reduces catastrophic thinking in fibromyalgia patients, validated by fMRI scans. This therapy helps manage chronic pain and improves well-being.

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Nature Lowers Risk of Osteoporosis

Apr 29, 2024 08:13AM

Living near green spaces correlates with higher bone density and lower osteoporosis risk. Psychological stress and activity levels also affect this relationship.

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Trends in Non-Alcoholic Drinking Habits

Apr 29, 2024 08:12AM

Young adults drink less alcohol, leading bars to offer more non-alcoholic options. Mocktails cater to this trend with flavorful alternatives.

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man rubbing eyes from seasonal allergies

A Rise in Adult Seasonal Allergies

Apr 29, 2024 08:11AM

Seasonal allergies affect adults too, with around 25% of U.S. adults experiencing them compared to 19% of children. Lifestyle changes and immunotherapy can help manage symptoms.

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Gray Whale Spotted in the Atlantic

Apr 29, 2024 08:05AM

The New England Aquarium reports rare sightings of gray whales off Nantucket Island, suggesting Arctic ice melt allows their return to Atlantic waters after 200 years

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U.S. Corn a Threat to Mexico

Apr 29, 2024 08:04AM

Mexico phasing out GM corn by 2024 to protect ancient varieties, sparks tension with the U.S. Critics stress supporting traditional farming alongside the ban to preserve biodiversity.

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Hydrogen Reservoirs

Apr 29, 2024 08:03AM

Study in Science unveils large hydrogen gas deposit in Albania's Bulqizë chromite mine, raising hopes for meeting global power needs with low-carbon hydrogen solution.

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Climate Change May Expose Buried Nuclear Waste

Apr 29, 2024 08:01AM

Radioactive contamination from Cold War activities poses risks in Marshall Islands, Greenland, and Spain. Rising sea levels exacerbate dangers.

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The Lost Continent of Zealandia

Apr 28, 2024 08:02AM

Scientists mapped Zealandia, a submerged continent below the Pacific Ocean. It's mostly underwater, with only 5% visible. Rock samples and magnetic maps aid understanding its formation.

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Yoga and Meditation to Improve Health-Related Quality of Life

Apr 01, 2024 01:22PM ● By Jordan Peschek

Yoga and meditation are greatly celebrated for the multitude of natural health benefits they provide, mentally and physically.

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Diabetic diet and healthy eating concept. Glucometer and vegetables in background.

Treating Diabetes With Healthy Food and Exercise

Mar 29, 2024 08:14AM

Daniel J. Cox's innovative Type-2 diabetes management approach, funded by NIH, prioritizes education on diet and exercise over weight loss or medication.

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Chinese retired Asian Parkinson's patient undergoing rehab training with bead roller coater at home.

County Declares Loneliness a Public Health Crisis

Mar 29, 2024 08:13AM

San Mateo County, near San Francisco, declares loneliness a public health crisis, future efforts may include infrastructure investments, social media campaigns, and mental health funding.

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Cropped shot of an attractive young woman meditating outdoors.

Treating Anxiety With Mindfulness

Mar 29, 2024 08:12AM

A JAMA Psychiatry study shows mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) is an effective treatment option for anxiety disorders, which holds promise for managing anxiety symptoms.

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A child holds a popular toy popit rapeseed field.

New Way to Diagnose Autism

Mar 29, 2024 08:11AM

Yale scientists linked two neurodevelopmental abnormalities to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) which could aid diagnosis and identify potential treatments.

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Davos city winter blue hour night scene.

10 Takeaways From World Economic Forum

Mar 29, 2024 08:04AM

The World Economic Forum met in Davos, Switzerland. The meeting focused on the importance and driving principals of trust.

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Abraham lake freezes over in winter and methane bubbles were trapped.

Sea of Methane Endangers Planet

Mar 29, 2024 08:03AM

Research in Svalbard unveils vast methane reserves. Thawing permafrost could unleash it, triggering warming feedback loops.

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White Rhino while on safari in Botswana, Africa.

In Vitro Fertilization May Save Nearly Extinct Rhino

Mar 29, 2024 08:02AM

Scientists at the BioRescue project have announced a breakthrough in embryo transfer that could save the northern white rhinoceros from extinction.

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Blue pink neon triangle portal abstract background. Glowing lines, virtual reality tunnel, corrridor.

Hearing a Solar Eclipse

Mar 29, 2024 08:01AM

Millions will witness a total solar eclipse from Texas to Maine on April 8. Harvard's LightSound lets visually impaired people experience it through sound.

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Healthy Plant-Based Diets Reduce Diabetes Risk

Feb 29, 2024 08:15AM

The consumption of a healthy plant-based diet can reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by 24 percent as compared to those following an unhealthy plant-based diet.

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