It’s a hard truth in today’s world, but research indicates that the average person ingests between 39,000 and 52,000 microplastic particles annually through their food.
This startling statistic raises concerns about the implications for our health. How can we reconcile our reliance on plastic with research suggesting it poses both short- and long-term health risks?
A 2024 survey examined the presence of plastic in 16 different protein sources commonly consumed in the U.S. diet. Within these foods alone, an average meal was found to contain between 74 and 220 microplastic particles.
This figure doesn’t even include plastic debris from drink bottles or food containers, nor does it consider particles that can flake off cookware.
Microplastics are not limited to food; they have also been detected in drinking water, salt, rice, honey, and powdered supplements. They can leach from tea bags and dislodge from plastic cutting boards, while fruits and vegetables may absorb microplastics from contaminated soil and water.
Plastics are pervasive in our food system, and ongoing research aims to clarify their health impacts.
Studies, like those shared by Stanford researchers, indicate links between microplastic exposure and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, and metabolic disorders.
In addition to potentially damaging tissues, microplastics may trigger inflammation, disrupt our microbiome, and expose us to harmful substances like PFAS, phthalates, and bisphenol A.
However, there’s a glimmer of hope. Researchers are exploring the idea that dietary fiber could help mitigate the accumulation of microplastics in our digestive systems.
A 2024 study suggests that the absorption properties of certain fibers can bind with microplastics in the intestines, promoting the excretion of these particles.
The hypothesis is that soluble and insoluble fibers form a gel-like barrier, preventing microplastics from crossing the intestinal wall into the bloodstream, instead escorting them out with waste.
While this mechanism requires further human study, a 2025 study by a Japanese research team indicated similar results in rats.
Researchers at Tokai University discovered that rats fed with chitosan—a specific type of fiber—excreted significantly more microplastics than those not fed this fiber.
“We confirmed that chitosan binds to microplastics,” stated Professor Muneshige Shimizu, who emphasized the potential for chitosan in various food applications as long as its structure remains intact.
Shimizu noted that not all fibers have demonstrated the same efficacy, highlighting the need for further research to identify which specific structures are beneficial.
In the meantime, other fibers may also mitigate health risks from microplastics. A study from Boston University showed that certain fiber supplements could aid in removing PFAS, harmful chemicals often found in plastics.
Researchers found that gel-forming fibers could function as magnets for PFAS in the intestines, helping to drive these substances out of the body.
Before you stock up on fiber-rich foods, it’s crucial to recognize that studies are still ongoing to determine which types of dietary fiber effectively remove plastics and PFAS.
Nonetheless, increasing fiber intake is widely encouraged for various health advantages, from improved cardiovascular health to reduced cancer risk.
While microplastics are a reality of modern life, there are strategies to minimize your exposure in the kitchen.
Dr. Lisa Zimmerman from the Food Packaging Forum advocates for purchasing fruits and vegetables from farmers’ markets and suggests avoiding plastic-lined disposable cups.
She also discourages microwaving plastic containers, as heat can increase particle release. Instead, she recommends using glass or ceramic.
“We can’t eliminate plastic entirely, but we strive to reduce our exposure,” she says.
You May Be Historically Older Than Your “Real Age”
Reuters/Toru Hanai
Years ago, when I began discussing the concept of aging, the “biological clock” emerged as a key topic. This term, synonymous with the aging clock and “true age” measurement, highlights the difference between chronological age—the number of years since birth—and biological age, which indicates the actual aging process within our bodies.
Generally, biological aging follows a predictable pattern: a gradual decline in physical and mental functions throughout adulthood. Our intuitive judgments of age often incorporate visible signs like wrinkles, gray hair, and variations in posture, gait, mental sharpness, and voice.
The goal of determining biological age is to encapsulate this aging process into a single measurable figure. This provides insight into an individual’s health trajectory, emphasizing that some people age significantly faster than others.
Most individuals find their biological age within a few years of their chronological age. However, discrepancies can be stark: one 56-year-old may exhibit a biological age akin to someone in their 30s, while another may resemble a person in their 70s. Notably, biological age can increase or decrease at a different rate than chronological age.
Understanding biological age serves as a valuable tool, offering individuals clear, understandable insights into their health. This information can motivate lifestyle modifications and help assess the effectiveness of interventions like diet and exercise. The demand for biological age assessments is evident, as numerous companies now offer testing services, albeit often at a premium.
For scientists investigating anti-aging strategies, biological age measurements serve as immediate indicators of intervention success, eliminating the need for long-term studies involving human or animal subjects. Furthermore, tracking biological age enables us to comprehend the inner workings of our bodies as they age.
Despite its advantages, the concept of biological age requires refinement. The initial biological clocks were based on epigenetic markers—molecular indicators that alter gene expression. Innovators like Steve Horvath from UCLA discovered that these markers change predictably throughout life, allowing for the estimation of biological age through complex algorithms.
Yet, epigenetics isn’t the sole estimation approach. Various other biological markers—such as blood proteins, telomeres, urine metabolites, facial imagery, and even X-rays—can also inform biological age assessments. However, the inconsistency between these different measurement methods raises concerns about their reliability.
For instance, according to a recent analysis of the CALERIE trial, which examined caloric restriction as an anti-aging intervention, five different aging clocks were applied to a cohort of 220 adults. Only two showed a significant decline in biological age among calorie-restricted participants, leaving questions about which clock to trust—a dilemma faced by both individuals and researchers utilizing aging assessments.
Another challenge is the misleading perception of accuracy. Most companies report a single biological age figure without indicating a margin of error, leading to potential misinterpretations. A recent study published in npj Aging pointed out that many existing biological clocks do not perform as anticipated, which could lead to unnecessary anxiety regarding health outcomes.
But does this imply that biological clocks are without value? Not entirely. Research indicates that many limitations associated with these methods could be addressed. According to Dmitri Kulikov and fellow researchers from the Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, overcoming these challenges is feasible, although determining whether it is worth pursuing these improvements remains an open question.
Meanwhile, innovative solutions are on the horizon. Emerging methodologies that utilize artificial intelligence, particularly large-scale health models (LHM), hold promise. These AI-driven models, akin to those powering systems like ChatGPT, analyze vast datasets to assess individual risks related to mortality and the development of age-related conditions. A recent study in Natural Medicine suggests these modern methods may outperform traditional biological clocks.
As LHM continues to evolve, it may address many current limitations of biological age assessments. Thus, if you are contemplating determining your biological age, proceed with caution. If you’ve already done so, take the outcomes with a degree of skepticism. In future reflections on aging, I promise to approach this subject with a more critical perspective, blending newfound knowledge with experience.
Understanding Body Fat: The Good, The Bad, and The Complex
Dr. Ray Clark & Mervyn Goff/Science Photo Library
Body fat is often misunderstood as merely a passive energy reserve. However, emerging research indicates it plays a crucial role in our overall health, providing insights into its intricate functions.
Fat comes in various forms, including white fat, which stores energy and releases hormones influencing metabolism; brown fat, known for generating heat; and beige fat, which activates thermogenesis under specific conditions. The location of these fats matters significantly. While subcutaneous fat is usually harmless, visceral fat, located deep in the abdomen, is closely linked to inflammation, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
Recent studies further clarify this dynamic, suggesting that adipose tissue is actively involved in regulating blood pressure and managing immune responses in crucial areas of the body.
A study led by Jutta Jarkanen at Karolinska University Hospital in Stockholm examined the cellular structure of visceral fat in various abdominal locations. Their findings highlighted that epiploic fat, which envelops the large intestine, is abundant in immune cells and specialized fat cells producing inflammatory proteins tied to immune activation. They discovered that microbial products from the intestines trigger these fat cells to activate nearby immune responses.
“Our research indicates that fat deposits are specialized based on their anatomical position, particularly the fat adjacent to the intestine, which is tailored for immune interactions,” Jarkanen noted.
Although the study included obese participants, everyone has some visceral fat around their intestines, suggesting that epiploic fat fulfills a fundamental role irrespective of body weight.
“The gut continually encounters nutrients, microbial elements, and environmental substances,” Jarkanen explained. “Having adjacent adipose tissue to sense, respond, and manage immune reactions adds an extra layer of defense.”
However, obesity can lead to chronic overactivity in this system. Overeating, excessive consumption of particular foods, and specific bacterial compositions in the gut microbiome can lead to persistent immune signaling in intestinal fats, contributing to low-grade inflammation linked with metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes and obesity.
A follow-up study unveiled yet another surprising function of fat: its role in regulating blood pressure. Marcia Koenen and colleagues at Rockefeller University aimed to understand the connection between obesity, characterized by excessive white fat, and high blood pressure, while noting that brown and beige fats seem to offer protection.
The team investigated perivascular adipose tissue, a beige fat-rich layer encasing blood vessels. In genetically modified mice that lack beige fat, their blood vessels exhibited stiffness and overreacted to daily hormonal signals that constrict arteries, resulting in elevated blood pressure.
The researchers identified that the enzyme QSOX1, secreted by dysfunctional fat cells, caused this adverse effect. Blocking this enzyme prevented vascular damage and normalized blood pressure in the mice, independent of their body weight. “This emphasizes the importance of inter-organ communication in understanding complex diseases such as hypertension,” emphasized Koenen.
“This study sheds light on the often-underestimated roles of brown and beige fat,” noted Christy Townsend from Ohio State University. Though human perivascular adipose tissue is proportionately less substantial than in mice, it remains physiologically relevant. “This research highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of fat’s effect on health beyond overall fat mass and BMI.”
Instead of merely focusing on fat reduction, these findings point towards future therapies aimed at preserving or restoring the advantageous functions of fat by targeting specific fat deposits, enhancing immune-fat communication, and maintaining healthy beige fat activity. However, comprehensive research is necessary before these findings can be applied clinically.
Together, these studies position adipose tissue as an active, functionally diverse system implicated in numerous aspects of human physiology. “When I began working in this field in the late 1990s, the belief was that fat was just a sack of cells storing extra nutrients,” stated Paul Cohen, also from Rockefeller University, who participated in the second study. “These investigations reveal a shift in our understanding of fat as not just a single cell type, but a complex tissue composed of various cell types engaged in diverse processes, extending far beyond simple nutrient storage and mobilization.”
Timing chemotherapy properly can reduce side effects.
Paul Springett/Alamy
It is often said that timing plays a crucial role, and cancer treatment might be no exception. Researchers have discovered that adjusting the timing of immunotherapy drugs administered to cancer patients can enhance survival rates, adding to the evidence that our body’s internal clock affects cancer treatment efficacy.
The activities of cells and tissues within our bodies follow a 24-hour cycle termed the circadian rhythm, which governs everything from hormone release to cell division and repair timing. These rhythms are frequently disrupted in cancer cells, which tend to divide uncontrollably rather than at set intervals.
This has led to efforts aimed at alleviating chemotherapy side effects by targeting quickly dividing cells while the healthy tissue is less active. However, researchers are also exploring whether administering cancer drugs at particular times can enhance their efficacy.
One class of drugs under scrutiny is immune checkpoint inhibitors, which enable immune T cells to more effectively identify and target tumors. “T cells and other immune agents are naturally more active in the morning, making them more responsive,” explains Dr. Celine Ismail Sutton at Easbeatty Gwynedd Hospital in Bangor, England, who was not part of the study. “Administering immune checkpoint inhibitors during this window may bolster antitumor effects and enhance effectiveness.”
Earlier this year, ze fan and colleagues from Central South University in Changsha, China, documented that giving the checkpoint inhibitor pembrolizumab before 11:30 a.m. alongside chemotherapy to patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) resulted in a survival rate that nearly doubles compared to those receiving treatment primarily in the afternoon.
To assess whether timing treatments in accordance with circadian rhythms, termed chronotherapy, could benefit patients with rapidly dividing, aggressive small cell lung cancer, the same team analyzed data from 397 individuals treated with the checkpoint inhibitors atezolizumab or durvalumab alongside chemotherapy from 2019 to 2023.
“Patients treated before 3 p.m. exhibited significantly longer progression-free survival and overall survival in comparison to those treated later in the day,” reported team members. Zhang Yongchang, also at Central South University, noted.
After accounting for numerous confounding variables, early treatment appeared to be associated with a 52% reduced risk of cancer progression and a 63% decreased risk of mortality.
Zhang suspects that this effect may manifest in additional tumor types, referencing evidence from studies on renal cell carcinoma and melanoma. Research on NSCLC trials illustrated that morning dosing boosts circulating T cell levels and activation, while later dosing does the opposite. Mouse studies have shown that the behavior of tumor-infiltrating T cells fluctuates throughout the 24-hour cycle and that circadian clocks in adjacent endothelial cells influence when immune cells migrate into tumors.
While larger randomized controlled trials are essential, this investigation “adds further support to a growing number of studies globally that indicate improved outcomes when immunotherapy drugs are administered earlier in the day,” states Pasquale Innominato from the University of Warwick, UK.
But is it feasible for hospitals to implement this? When it comes to modifying treatment schedules, “adjusting infusion times is a straightforward clinical decision that incurs minimal costs,” asserts Zhang.
Nevertheless, treating everyone early in the day isn’t practical. According to Robert Dalman, also at the University of Warwick, each person’s body clock varies. “For instance, the biological time discrepancy between an ‘early bird’ and a ‘night owl’ can span several hours.”
Nonetheless, biomarkers that accurately assess individuals’ chronotypes are currently in development. Once established and validated, chronotherapy could emerge as a “cost-effective, resource-efficient innovation with the capability to significantly enhance treatment outcomes. A simple shift in timing can unveil a new facet of precision medicine,” concludes Ismail Sutton in a recently published perspective on this innovative strategy.
Individuals enjoying a swim in London’s Beckenham Place Park Lake during January
AMcCulloch / Alamy
It’s 8am, and I find myself at the edge of my local lake in Beckenham Place Park, London, with the early morning sun just starting to break through the trees. A veil of mist rises from the chilled waters, wrapping everything in silence. Even the ducks seem to shy away from the frigid water today. Yet, my friend and I, clad in swimsuits despite the single-digit water temperature, brace ourselves. The initial plunge is startling, but once you acclimate and begin gliding through the water, it feels like a rebirth.
In recent years, I’ve successfully turned numerous friends into proponents of cold water swimming. My mantra is straightforward: nothing boosts mental health more effectively. Until recently, my experience was mostly just personal testimony. However, with the rise of ice baths, cold showers, and winter swimming, researchers are starting to uncover how these frosty immersions influence our brain chemistry. It’s becoming clear that these weekly dips may be making lasting changes to my brain.
I’m certainly not alone in my fondness for cold water. 6.8 million individuals in the UK regularly swim outdoors, whether in open waters or chilly pools that remain cool throughout much of the year. This trend aligns with emerging evidence indicating that consistent cold water exposure can alleviate fatigue, decrease depression symptoms, and enhance overall well-being, despite its potential dangers like hypothermia and waterborne illnesses.
For instance, a study involving 36 participants who undertook a four-month open water swimming program, four days a week during winter, demonstrated a marked reduction in tension and fatigue when compared to a non-swimming control group that maintained typical city life. The swimmers reported heightened energy levels, better memory retention, and improved mood.
A recent single immersion also proved effective. Individuals who stood chest-deep in seawater at around 13.6 degrees Celsius (56.5 degrees Fahrenheit) for 20 minutes reported less negativity and an increase in energy and self-esteem relative to those who remained on the shoreline.
Cold exposure affects several physiological mechanisms, including the heart and immune system, often leading to enhanced immune function which reduces the incidence of colds and cardiovascular risks. What intrigues me most are the neurological impacts.
For example, immersing your half-clad body in frigid water can uplift your mood by triggering an acute stress response. Anyone who has leapt into icy waters knows this feeling. The brain manages the sudden release of adrenaline, dopamine, and cortisol—chemicals that induce a high similar to that experienced post-exercise.
This reaction serves as an evolutionary survival tactic. Exposure to extreme cold can be life-threatening, which is why this “cold shock response” harnesses stress mechanisms to offer bursts of energy, sharpen alertness, minimize pain, and avert danger.
This is also the reason swimming in cold water might be overwhelming. In unusual cases, it can provoke rapid breathing and could lead to cardiac incidents if not approached with caution. However, if you intentionally prompt this reaction in a safe, calm setting with trained supervision, the benefits can be enjoyed while minimizing risks. Deficiencies in these neurotransmitters are critical in conditions like depression and anxiety, making the artificial elevation of these chemicals a possible explanation for the fleeting mood boost many experience after swimming.
‘Cold shock response’ boosts alertness and uplifts mood
David Trood/Getty Images
There may also be long-term benefits. Over time, the body adapts to the stress of cold water immersion, leading to shifts in the stress response. A study found that participants swimming in cold water three times a week for 12 weeks experienced a reduction in cortisol levels by the end, indicating an enhanced ability to cope with stress. Chronically high stress hormones can lead to inflammation, linked to various diseases and accelerated aging; thus, managing this response may yield long-term health advantages. A recent review of cold water swimming research suggests that this adaptation could provide expansive mental health benefits, like aiding anxiety management.
Additionally, our cold shock response triggers the release of proteins, such as RNA-binding motif 3, which assist in synaptic repair (the links between neurons). In lab mice prone to a form of Alzheimer’s, increased levels of this protein have been found to shield against nerve damage. This has led some researchers to propose that regular cold water swimming could provide lasting neuroprotective effects in humans, although this remains unverified.
Cold water immersion also wields significant psychological power. Enduring challenging conditions—even the most avid cold water enthusiasts can face trials during icy days—can foster resilience and a sense of mastery, popularly referred to as grit. Coupled with the social elements inherent in outdoor swimming, this mirrors some aspects of treatments like antidepressants and therapy. In fact, emerging evidence indicates that cold water swimming can alleviate depression symptoms as a complementary treatment. In many instances, this can occur without reliance on medication.
Interestingly, researchers are beginning direct investigations into cold water swimming’s effects on the brain. For example, Alla Yankovskaya and her team at Bournemouth University recently scanned the brains of 33 individuals not accustomed to cold water swimming before and after a five-minute full-body immersion in water at 20°C (68°F). This marked the first time researchers obtained real-time data on the interplay of brain networks post-cold exposure.
They uncovered advantageous changes in connectivity between various crucial brain regions, particularly linking the medial prefrontal cortex and the parietal cortex, areas tied to emotional regulation, focus, and decision-making. Activity in these regions is often disrupted in individuals suffering from depression and anxiety, possibly underscoring why cold water swimming acts as a therapeutic modality.
However, not everything is clear cut and positive. In rare instances, temporary memory loss may arise from cold water swimming, typically observed in older individuals, although the cause remains elusive. Besides, hypothermia poses a risk for lengthy aquatic adventures. Nevertheless, it’s comforting to know that the mental clarity and elevated mood observed after a swim are substantiated by scientific evidence, and maintaining such benefits might even guard against age-related diseases.
Recently, I learned that a sauna was being constructed lakeside, prompting curiosity about the additional benefits heat therapy might offer alongside swimming. I came across studies suggesting heat and cold can induce precise alterations in brain wave patterns, potentially yielding the most significant cognitive benefits of all. This is certainly a topic I aim to delve into in future articles—all in the name of science, of course, as I embark on a personal investigation of the UK’s premier saunas.
In the meantime, if you find yourself near a lake or the ocean this winter, gather your courage and dip your toes in. It may be chilly, but your brain will appreciate it.
Swimming in waters below 15°C (59°F) should always be conducted with a partner, flotation device, bright headwear, and full awareness of the risks involved and how to mitigate them. For more information on water safety pertaining to cold water swimming, visit the Royal Lifeboat Society. Resources are available.
Our bodies comprise various soft, hard, and intricate components. What should we do when these components fail or don’t meet our needs? Medicine provides several solutions, including dentures, skin, heart, and hair transplants, but don’t expect an instant replacement.
In Alternative You: Adventures in Human Anatomy, popular science author Mary Roach explores the most intriguing historical and current efforts to repair, replace, or enhance our body parts.
These efforts range from dentures designed like mouth piercings, lab-grown anuses, to gene-edited pig hearts, each delivered with a humor that had me laughing, wincing, and holding my breath throughout the pages.
Roach, drawn to the “human element of exploration,” shares engaging tales as she travels the globe to meet surgeons, scientists, patients, and other individuals at the forefront of body modification.
Her bold and often cheeky questions animate these encounters. For example, during a dinner discussion about gut-derived vaginas with her surgeon, she mentions that intestinal tissue generally contracts to aid in food movement.
“That could be advantageous for partners who have penises, right?” she quips. “It’s not overly aggressive,” the surgeon replies, sipping his Chianti.
Roach embraces self-experimentation, visiting a hair transplant surgeon and persuading him to relocate hair follicles from her head to another body area. Her goal? To gaze in wonder at the few long strands that might sprout on her legs. While the transplant fails, she quickly dives into the trials of growing hair from stem cells. Spoiler: we’re not there yet.
One significant innovation Roach covers is ostomy, where surgeons create openings in the abdomen for waste drainage into an external pouch. She speaks with individuals who use stoma bags due to conditions like Crohn’s disease and colitis, which can lead to inflammation and frequent bowel movements, complicating life outside the home. Roach highlights the importance of reducing stigma around ostomies and discusses the remarkable technology supporting this procedure.
As expected from a book on body part replacement, there’s a chapter dedicated to 3D printed organs. Roach approaches this topic thoughtfully, noting that it’s not merely about feeding cells into a printer. Most organs consist of multiple cell types that must be arranged with precise specifications, and printed tissues often lack the authentic properties that remain elusive for researchers.
I highly recommend this book to anyone curious about the human body. However, be advised—some vivid surgical descriptions are included. (If that’s not your cup of tea, feel free to skip the next paragraph.) At one point, Roach compares the tubes of fat and blood pulled from patients to “raspberry smoothies.” Additionally, when a leg implant is affixed to the femur, it sounds like “tent stakes collapsing.”
Such sensory details might not appeal to everyone, but for those willing to confront the raw, sinewy, and delicate reality of our bodies, this book serves as a profound reminder of our complexity and depth. I certainly walked away feeling grateful for all that I have.
Women are not simply “smaller men.” For many years, medical research has primarily focused on male rodents, which lack the intricate hormonal cycles found in females, subsequently applying these findings to women as if they were the same. Fortunately, recent decades have seen a growing understanding that this oversight is detrimental to women’s health, often leading to treatments that are less effective for them than for men.
Recent studies on how sex chromosomes influence immune systems reveal another layer to this narrative. Overlooking the intricacies of women’s bodies impacts everyone, not solely women (see “Women’s Immune Systems Are Stronger – Now We Know Why”).
A significant part of the issue arises from averaging effects. While statistical methods can help clarify fluctuations and unveil impactful insights, excessive reliance on them can obscure critical signals. Women generally possess more robust and responsive immune systems compared to the average man, showing longer-lasting responses to vaccines and a lower likelihood of mortality from infections in older age.
“
Neglecting the complexity of women’s bodies affects everyone, not just women. “
However, by combining male and female participants in medical research trials, distinct sex differences in reactions to antiviral medications and vaccines, although better than excluding women entirely, may still be obscured. This could result in men receiving inadequate dosages for effective treatment and women receiving excessive amounts. Furthermore, minimal attention has been given to how these differences impact transgender individuals.
Ultimately, researchers are uncovering how the X chromosome and hormones contribute to these sex-based differences. Insights from this research should help in refining treatments for a variety of conditions, from long COVID-19 to cancer, benefiting everyone. Embracing the complexity of our bodies rather than viewing women as “smaller men” is crucial.
The mummified remains of a boy buried in a copper box between 1617 and 1814
Annamaria Arabiso
An adolescent boy, interred in a copper coffin almost three centuries ago in northern Italy, stands out as the only nearly fully preserved green mummy known to exist.
While other ancient remains have shown partial mummification or green coloration from burial alongside copper or bronze items, a green mummified hand of a newborn clutching a copper coin was discovered in medieval Hungary within pottery vessels.
In contrast, this Italian mummy is largely intact, save for its feet, showcasing an almost entirely green complexion from skin to bone, with the exception of its left leg.
The mummy emerged from the basement of an old villa in Bologna in 1987, where it underwent forensic analysis at the University of Bologna. Experts determined it belonged to a boy aged 12 to 14, and it has been preserved at the university since.
Annamaria Arabiso, a conservation scientist at the University of Rome Tor Vergata, took part in the examination alongside a myriad of specialists including geneticists, anthropologists, radiologists, mathematicians, physicists, and computer scientists. “It was an impressive interdisciplinary effort,” she remarks.
The researchers conducted an extensive series of chemical and physical analyses on the mummy. Radiocarbon dating assigned the boy’s death to between 1617 and 1814, with Arabiso noting that the remains exhibited no apparent signs of trauma or disease.
Copper played a crucial role in preserving both hard and soft tissues, owing to its known antimicrobial characteristics, Arabiso states. However, the copper box reacted with acid from the body, leading to corrosion that created copper byproducts interacting with the chemicals in the bone. Gradually, copper ions replaced calcium in the boy’s skeleton, imparting a green hue and simultaneously enhancing the structural integrity of his bones over time.
The skin developed a rough layer of copper corrosion products referred to as patina, a pale green film typical on bronze items. Arabiso explained that this patina formed as a result of copper’s reaction with water and carbon dioxide during decomposition.
“This fundamentally shifts our understanding of heavy metals, revealing a more intricate relationship regarding their effects on conservation than previously assumed,” she states.
Possibly due to acidic interactions, the bottom of the copper box eventually cracked, leading to liquid spillage that left the remains in a cool, arid environment with limited oxygen, which mitigated decomposition. Arabiso suggests the boy may have become disoriented and lost his footing during this process.
“Engaging with these extraordinary human remains was profoundly emotional for me,” she shares.
Julia Gallo, having seen images of mummies for the first time at the Collège de France in Paris, expressed her awe. “Oh, how beautiful!” she exclaims. “This entire case study is utterly captivating.”
Gallo offered praise for the researchers’ efforts in meticulously investigating the physical and chemical processes leading to the mummification and subsequent color changes. “The evidence robustly supports their conclusions regarding both the preservation of tissues and bones and the variations in coloration.”
Historic Herculaneum – discover Vesuvius, Pompeii and ancient Naples
Embark on a captivating journey through the historical sites of Mount Vesuvius, Pompeii, and Herculaneum, where history and archaeology intertwine.
In light of rising apprehensions regarding the effects of artificial intelligence on performers, actress Olivia Williams emphasized that actors should handle data obtained from body scans similarly to how they approach nude scenes.
The star of Dune: Prophecy and The Crown stated that she and fellow actors often face mandatory body scans by on-set cameras, with scant assurances on the usage and destination of that data.
“It would be reasonable to adhere to the ‘Nude Rider’ standard,” she noted. “This footage should only be used within that specific scene; it must not be repurposed elsewhere. Furthermore, any edited scenes must be removed across all formats.”
Williams drew attention to a vague provision in contracts that seems to grant studios extensive rights to use images of performers “on every platform currently existing or created in the future worldwide, indefinitely.”
A renewed conversation about AI’s impact on actors has been ignited by widespread criticism of the development of an AI performer named Tilly Norwood. Actors fear their likenesses and poses will be utilized to train AI systems, potentially threatening their employment.
Actors, stunt performers, dancers, and supporting actors relayed to the Guardian that they felt “ambushed” and compelled to participate in body scans on set. Many reported there was little time to discuss how the generated data would be handled or whether it could be used for AI training purposes.
Ms. Williams recounted her unsuccessful attempts to eliminate the ambiguous clause from her contract. She explored options for obtaining a limited license to control her body scan data, but her lawyer advised her that the legal framework was too uncertain. The costs of trying to reclaim the data were prohibitively high.
“I’m not necessarily looking for financial compensation for the use of my likeness,” she remarked. “What concerns me is being depicted in places I’ve never been, engaging in activities I’ve never done, or expressing views I haven’t shared.”
“Laws are being enacted, and no one is intervening. They’re establishing a precedent and solidifying it. I sign these contracts because not doing so could cost me my career.”
Williams expressed that she is advocating for younger actors who have scant options but to undergo scans without clear information regarding the fate of their data. “I know a 17-year-old girl who was encouraged to undergo the scan and complied, similar to the scene from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Being a minor, a chaperone was required to consent, but her chaperone was a grandmother unfamiliar with the legal implications.”
The matter is currently under discussion between Equity, the UK performing arts union, and Pact, the trade body of the UK film industry. “We are urging for AI safeguards to be integrated into major film and television contracts to prioritize consent and transparency for on-set scanning,” stated Equity Executive Director Paul W. Fleming.
“It is achievable for the industry to implement essential minimum standards that could significantly transform conditions for performers and artists in British TV and film.”
Pact issued a statement saying: “Producers are fully aware of their responsibilities under data protection legislation, and these concerns are being addressed during collective negotiations with Equity. Due to the ongoing talks, we are unable to provide further details.”
FIt’s common for actors on film and TV sets to be asked to enter a booth lined with cameras prepared to capture their likeness from multiple perspectives. However, the cast and crew are increasingly anxious about the implications of AI in the industry, complicating this process further.
“It occurs unexpectedly,” Olivia Williams notes. She recalls being scanned more times than she can count throughout her career, from *The Sixth Sense* to *Dune: Prophecy*.
“You’re on set, in costume, with a friendly assistant director who knows you well, bringing you tea or managing your phone while you act. Then VFX says, ‘You’re on set. The visual effects team is here today—can you please head to the VFX bus as soon as the scene wraps?’ And off we go.
“Actors often strive to please. Being approached for a scan mid-scene can be detrimental to your creativity and instill a fear of never working again or losing your agent. So you comply.”
Lead and supporting actors, stunt performers, and dancers have shared similar experiences with the Guardian, where they’ve been ushered through scanners on set, often unclear about their rights regarding the biometric data collected.
Williams mentioned that the cast was informed that a scan was needed “if they wanted to be part of the scene or to create visually interesting moments, like aliens coming out of their brains.”
Olivia Williams stated that scans “happened unexpectedly” and that actors complied out of “the fear of never working again.” Photo: David Bintiner/Observer
While anxiety regarding this issue has lingered, recent discussions about “AI doubles” and the rise of “AI actors” have sparked a pressing need to clarify the fate of data captured on set.
This concern was highlighted by reports of an AI character named “Tilly Norwood.” Although it may seem improbable that a production company will unveil the first AI star, it underscores the ongoing struggle to establish performers’ rights.
Worries about the future for emerging actors and the existential threats faced by performers, often referred to as support artists (SAs), prompted Williams to speak out.
Dave Watts, a seasoned SA with experience in numerous superhero films, has also encountered scanning several times and pointed out the wider implications for the industry.
“I can easily envision crew members saying, ‘We don’t need to cast anyone anymore. We can just have the AI create a crowd of 1,000 people based on our existing data,’” he remarked.
“If the usual 100, 200, or 500 SAs aren’t necessary for big productions, there’s no need for an assistant director to oversee them. We wouldn’t need hair and makeup artists, costumers, caterers, or drivers. AI threatens nearly every job out there.”
An AI-generated image of actor Tilly Norwood has raised significant concerns among cast members. Photo: Reuters
An anonymous dancer, fearing repercussions for voicing their opinion, echoed these sentiments regarding the pressure associated with scanning and data usage. “Filming is challenging. You’re awake at 3 a.m. and can’t leave until the day’s over at 8 p.m. Situations like this arise, leaving you with limited options.
“We all ponder whether we might as well quit our jobs, don’t we? It seems somewhat foolish when you frame it that way.”
Alex Lawrence Archer, a data rights attorney at AWO, which is navigating this issue with actors, stated that performers are hindered by a labyrinth of complex and overlapping regulations. He emphasized the necessity for clearer agreements regarding production, rather than scrambling to address data issues after they occur.
“Contracts are often vaguely written and standard industry language that is outdated,” he explained. “They weren’t made to address this technology. There exists a vacuum of ambiguity, wherein AI developers and studios can maneuver as they please.”
“Actors and their representatives need to focus on this upcoming training case. They must negotiate clearer contracts that accurately convey fair agreements between performers, studios, and AI developers.”
Signs of a rebellion are beginning to appear. On a recent shoot, the cast was informed in advance about the scan following concerns that were voiced.
One cast member, speaking anonymously, shared, “Performers are collectively resisting an environment that feels ambushing. We managed to add an addendum to our contract that essentially prevents the use of our digital scans for any purpose outside of the show without our written consent.”
Filming in Cardiff for *Mr. Burton*. In addition to actors, many jobs within the industry, including assistant directors, hair and make-up artists, costume designers, caterers, drivers, and location managers, are at risk due to AI, according to one supporting actor. Photo: Sara Lee/The Guardian
The struggle for rights may appear daunting in the face of the data-hungry AI industry, which can gather information from countless sources without involving professional performers. However, there’s a shared understanding of the need to regain some control.
Theo Morton, a professional stunt performer and member of the British Stunt Register, stated, “This technology could either reduce the need for human performers drastically or enhance creativity in a positive manner. But the uncertainty looms large, highlighting the necessity for contractual safeguards to prevent a loss of control.”
Yet, Williams expresses a deep concern about the potential loss of control.
A key unknown is the origin of data-trained AI models. Lawrence Archer highlighted that this remains a closely guarded secret that must be revealed. He also warned against reducing the discourse to merely compensation issues for performers.
“The AI industry depends on vast amounts of data,” he explained. “Someone is gathering it. We recognize these are sensitive topics for AI developers and studios. We are assisting performers in making data access requests to learn more. I know several performers who have been compensated by AI companies to withdraw such requests.”
“We must foster an environment where human creativity, actor connectivity, and performance are valued. If we focus solely on legal and compensation matters, we risk relegating actors to the status of data gig workers instead of recognizing them as creative artists.”
According to new research published in the journal Food, daily consumption of mango (Mangifera indica) over a period of 24 weeks has shown improvements in both short- and long-term glycemic control, reduced insulin resistance, increased insulin sensitivity, and favorable changes in body composition for pre-diabetic patients. These findings indicate that incorporating fresh mangoes into the diet may aid glycemic control for those at high risk for type 2 diabetes, offering a practical food-based strategy to enhance body composition.
Daily consumption of mangoes for 24 weeks significantly enhanced glycemic control, insulin sensitivity, and body composition in adults with diabetes, underscoring the potential of mangoes as an effective dietary strategy for metabolic health. Image credit: Mohan Nannapaneni.
Currently, over 130 million adults in the United States are living with diabetes or pre-diabetes, as reported by the CDC.
Predictions indicate that by 2030, nearly 40% of U.S. adults will be affected by prediabetes.
Early identification and prevention at the prediabetic stage is crucial, as many individuals remain unaware of their condition until complications arise.
Nutrition plays a vital role in glycemic control, and a balanced diet can promote both enhanced blood glucose regulation and overall long-term health.
In a diabetes prevention program, lifestyle interventions resulted in a 58% reduction in the incidence of type 2 diabetes, compared to a 31% reduction with metformin versus placebo. Thus, identifying accessible natural strategies to mitigate these risk factors is essential for delaying diabetes onset and minimizing associated complications.
Dietary practices enriched with fruits, vegetables, and bioactive compounds have shown beneficial effects on glycemic control and metabolic health.
Mangoes, being tropical fruits, are rich in several bioactive compounds such as carotenoids, ascorbic acid, dietary fiber, phenolic compounds, gallbladder acid, and quercetin.
“It’s not merely about the sugar content; the overall context of the food is crucial,” stated Dr. Raedeh Basiri, a Clinical Nutrition Researcher at George Mason University.
“This study stands as the first long-term clinical trial to showcase the metabolic and body composition benefits of mangoes for individuals with prediabetes.”
“Essentially, it’s about more than just the sugar present in food. The naturally occurring sugars in mangoes and other fruits are balanced by the fiber and other vitamins and nutrients that confer additional health advantages.”
“Foods with added sugars, like breakfast cereals and low-sugar snacks, often lack the same nutritional value and may even elevate the risk of diabetes.”
“The objective is to urge people to include whole fruits like mangoes in their dietary strategies for healthy eating and diabetes prevention.”
“Individuals at high risk for diabetes should emphasize not only the sugar content of their food but also how the sugar is delivered.”
Dr. Basiri and her team divided participants into two groups: one receiving fresh mangoes daily and the other receiving low-sugar granola bars.
Throughout the six-month study, researchers measured participants’ blood glucose levels, their insulin response, and body fat.
The results showed that the high-sugar content in mangoes (32 grams of sugar) was more beneficial than the low-sugar granola bars (11 grams of sugar).
The group consuming mangoes daily exhibited improved glycemic control, heightened insulin sensitivity, and reduced body fat.
“Our findings reinforce and broaden the emerging evidence on the metabolic advantages of consuming fresh mango daily among pre-diabetic individuals,” the researchers noted.
“Participants who ate an average of one mango each day for 24 weeks recorded lower fasting blood glucose levels compared to the control group.”
“Future studies should utilize objective dietary biomarkers (like plasma carotenoids and urinary polyphenols) to enhance accuracy and credibility.”
“Additionally, exploring the mechanisms underlying these observed effects, including the role of bioactive compounds in mango on insulin signaling and inflammation, is essential, especially across diverse populations.”
“Longer follow-up periods and comparisons with other fruits and dietary strategies could provide clarity on the specific benefits of mangoes for metabolic health.”
“Final investigations should delve into broader health advantages of mango consumption beyond glycemic control and body composition, including potential impacts on metabolic pathways and variations in gene expression, as individual responses to the same foods can differ.”
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Raedeh Basiri et al. 2025. Daily mango intake improves blood glucose and body composition outcomes in prediabetic adults: a randomized controlled study. Food 14 (17): 2971; doi: 10.3390/foods14172971
This water flow took place on ancient asteroids over a billion years after their formation, likely due to the heat generated by melting ice, which caused rock fractures that facilitated water movement. JAXA’s Hayabusa-2 Spacecraft.
This image of the asteroid was taken on June 26, 2018, by JAXA’s Hayabusa-2 Spacecraft optical navigation camera – telescopic (ONC-T). Image credits: JAXA / University of Tokyo / Kochi University / Ricchiho University / Nagoya University / Chiba University of Technology / Nishimura University / Aizu University / AIST.
Ryugu is a CG-type asteroid close to Earth and part of the Polana family of impact asteroids.
The diamond-shaped body, also known as 1999 JU3, was identified by astronomers in May 1999 during asteroid studies near Lincoln.
Its diameter measures about 900 m (0.56 miles), and it orbits the Sun at a distance of 0.96-1.41 Astronomical Units (AU) every 474 days.
“We have a relatively good understanding of how the solar system was formed, though many gaps remain,” said Shiyoshijima, a researcher at the University of Tokyo.
“One gap in our knowledge is how Earth acquired its water.”
“It has long been known that carbonaceous asteroids, originating from ice and dust in the outer solar system, have contributed water to Earth.”
“We discovered that Ryugu preserves an unaltered record of water activity, indicating that liquid water moved through the rock much later than previously anticipated,” added Dr. Ikemoto.
“This shifts our understanding of the long-term fate of water on asteroids. The water has remained for an extended period and hasn’t been depleted as quickly as we thought.”
In this study, the authors examined the isotopes of lutetium (Lu) and hafnium (HF), with the radioactive decay from lutetium-176 to hafnium-176 serving as a sort of clock to gauge geological processes.
The expected presence of these isotopes in the studied sample was hypothesized to correlate with the asteroid’s age in a predictable manner.
However, the ratio of Hafnium-176 to Lutetium-176 was significantly unexpected.
This strongly suggests to researchers that the liquid effectively washed away lutetium from the rocks containing it.
“We anticipated that Ryugu’s chemical signatures would align with certain meteorites currently under examination on Earth,” Dr. Iizuka stated.
“However, the results were strikingly different, necessitating the careful elimination of other possible explanations, ultimately concluding that the Lu-HF system was hindered by a delayed liquid flow.”
“The most probable triggers involved the parent body of Ryugu’s larger asteroid, which disrupted the rocks, melting the embedded ice and allowing liquid water to permeate the body.”
“It was truly surprising! This impact event could be the catalyst for the parent body disruption.”
One of the crucial implications is that carbon-rich asteroids may be a significant source of water for Earth, supplying far more than previously estimated.
Ryugu’s parent body seems to have retained ice for over a billion years. This suggests that similar bodies impacting the young Earth could have delivered 2-3 times more water than standard models predict, significantly influencing the planet’s early oceans and atmosphere.
“The notion that a Ryugu-like object has preserved ice for such an extended time is remarkable,” Dr. Ikemoto remarked.
“It implies that Earth’s components were far wetter than we had imagined.”
“This prompts a reevaluation of the initial conditions for the planetary water system.”
“It’s still early to draw definitive conclusions, but my team and others may build on this research to clarify various aspects, including how our planet became habitable.”
The findings will be published in the journal Nature.
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T. Iizuka et al. Late fluid flow of primitive asteroids revealed by Lu-HF isotopes of Lu. Nature. Published online on September 10th, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41586-025-09483-0
Researchers have established a connection between being overweight or obese and various illnesses and health issues. Heart disease, some types of cancer, and additional conditions such as mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Beyond specific diseases, obesity is also associated with an increased risk of premature death.
Health organizations in the US and around the world utilize the Body Mass Index, or BMI, to assess whether individuals are overweight or obese. For instance, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization both classify overweight as having a BMI over 25 and obesity as a BMI exceeding 30. In simple terms, a person who is 1.8 meters tall (approximately 5’11”) and weighs 90.7 kilograms (about 200 lbs) has a BMI of 28.
While doctors recognize that BMI can serve as a valuable metric in healthcare, some point out its limitations. Athletes with considerable muscle mass may be classified as overweight due to their muscle’s greater weight compared to fat. Additionally, body fat percentages can vary based on ethnicity and gender, suggesting that the standard BMI approach may not accurately reflect every individual’s health.
Recently, researchers from the University of Florida explored whether alternative body composition measurements provide a better prediction of mortality risk in young adults compared to BMI. They analyzed data from the National Health Nutrition Test Survey (NHANES), which was conducted in the US between 1999 and 2004 and connects to an index that indicates if participants had passed away by 2020. The study included data from 4,252 adults aged 20 to 49.
The researchers assessed whether high BMI, elevated body fat percentage, or increased waist circumference were more effective predictors of mortality within 15 years. They defined higher-risk body composition as (1) a BMI over 25, categorizing this as overweight or obese. Causes of mortality they investigated included deaths from any cause, referred to as all causes, heart disease, and cancer.
Findings revealed that body fat percentage is a stronger predictor of mortality in young adults than BMI. Specifically, there was no statistically significant link between overweight or obese BMI and cancer-related or all-cause mortality. In contrast, both high body fat percentage and large waist circumference were significantly related to deaths from all causes and heart disease. However, none of the three body composition measurements were found to be statistically related to cancer mortality.
Researchers acknowledged certain limitations in their study. First, the body fat percentage thresholds they applied were derived from another research and are not universally accepted metrics like BMI. Second, as they focused solely on mortality risk in young adults, BMI could still be a strong mortality predictor in older adults. Lastly, while they observed mortality rates, various diseases and health issues, such as cardiovascular disease, are still linked to higher BMI.
Nevertheless, the research team concluded that BMI may not provide a comprehensive view of body composition, suggesting that other measures, such as body fat percentage, could be more beneficial in healthcare settings. They proposed that future studies should investigate these findings in older populations and explore additional health outcomes, including cardiovascular disease.
If you find yourself at your desk, feeling a bit fatigued and pondering where the weekend went, the thought of a four-day workweek might sound incredibly appealing. Just think about all you could accomplish with an extra day! You could finally tackle those odd tasks, enjoy some fresh air, or simply catch up on sleep.
This notion has circulated for years, but now the evidence is mounting. By trimming the workweek by just one day, you can reduce stress, enhance sleep quality, boost physical activity, and even improve productivity.
This concept is shaping a global movement toward rethinking the modern workweek, backed by trials occurring in Europe, North America, and other regions.
A recent study conducted by researchers from Boston College and University College Dublin tracked approximately 3,000 employees across 141 organizations in six English-speaking countries. For six months, these participants worked up to eight hours less per week, without any reduction in pay.
The results published in Natural Human Behavior were quite impressive. Employees reported enhanced mental and physical health, fewer sleep disturbances, and lower fatigue levels. Most companies found sufficient value in the results to continue with the new arrangements post-trial.
“We are observing global trends where workers experience burnout, extended hours, and minimal time for personal and family matters—not just in high-income nations but across many low and middle-income countries,” noted Wenfang, the study’s author and associate professor of sociology at Boston University, in an interview with BBC Science Focus.
“A four-day workweek offers a potential avenue for employees to rethink and restructure their work arrangements for better benefit.”
Hard Data
While many studies rely on employee surveys, recent research in Germany led by Professor Julia Bachmann aims to gather more concrete data. Her team monitored stress, activity levels, and sleep using Garmin fitness trackers worn by both participants in the four-day workweek and those maintaining full-time schedules.
The findings revealed that those in the four-day workweek group experienced significantly lower stress levels, as indicated by heart rate variability.
“The four-day workweek group showed significantly less stress on most days,” said Bachmann to BBC Science Focus. “Interestingly, even on weekends, they did not reach the stress levels of the control group.”
Interestingly, Saturday turned out to be the most stressful day, likely due to errands and family responsibilities, while Sunday was the least stressful. Participants also increased their walking, exercise, and gained an extra 38 minutes of sleep per week.
“They are more active, engaging in more sports. Their stress levels are lower, and they’re sleeping a bit more during the week,” Bachmann noted.
According to Bachmann, the early indicators point in a favorable direction; however, the data on sleep quality is still being analyzed.
Crucially, these physiological findings aligned with the self-reported data from participants. This is significant given the long-standing concerns about bias in self-reported data in other studies on the four-day workweek. “This is typically the main criticism,” Bachmann stated. “But now we have objective data that supports these self-reported outcomes.”
As part of the same study, researchers also gathered hair samples to analyze cortisol levels, a hormone linked to chronic stress. The results are pending, but Bachmann is hopeful they will be available later this year. If consistent with other findings, these results could provide further independent evidence of the health benefits of a four-day workweek.
The trial included 41 organizations across Germany, spanning from IT firms to healthcare providers. Not every employee transitioned to a four-day schedule within each company, as some departments within large corporations maintained full-time hours. Most who switched reduced their work hours without extending their workdays. Reports indicated that monthly overtime also decreased.
Fortunately, for any CEOs reading this, no significant revenue changes were noted during the four-day workweek, and both employee productivity and work intensity improved.
Importantly, this model gained widespread popularity: 73% of organizations expressed plans to continue with the four-day workweek in some capacity, and 82% of workers hoped to maintain it.
Fitness trackers were used to capture hard data on how four days of the week can improve your health – Credit: Getty Images
The Future of Work
So, is the Monday to Friday grind truly sustainable? According to Professor Cal Newport, a Georgetown University computer science professor trained at MIT and author of Deep Work, it’s not that straightforward. He agrees that a shortened week may offer some relief; however, he believes it lacks proper progression. “One of the key contributors to burnout among knowledge workers is overload,” he noted in an interview with BBC Science Focus. “Individuals juggle numerous projects, tasks, and obligations simultaneously.”
In other words, the focus should not solely be on how long we work, but also on the expectations attached to that work. “Transitioning to a four-day week only indirectly addresses this issue,” he asserted. “There’s anecdotal evidence suggesting that reducing workloads might lessen them somewhat. These new constraints can help people feel comfortable saying ‘no,’ making the most effective approach to managing workloads direct.”
Bachmann’s team is currently planning to streamline the four-day workweek concept further to explore how employees compress their tasks into four days compared to genuine reductions in total working hours.
Overall, the outlook for a four-day workweek is positive. Studies around the globe are converging on similar conclusions. Hopefully, a shorter workweek can enhance health and well-being without compromising performance.
However, as Newport emphasizes, the hours we work may matter less than the expectations we set. If a four-day week becomes a reality, it may require reevaluating our workloads rather than just adjusting our calendars.
Read more:
About Our Experts
Wenfang He is an associate professor in the Sociology department at Boston University, USA. His research has appeared in journals like Natural Human Behavior, Social Forces, Jobs and Occupations, and Advances in Life Course Research.
Julia Buckmann is the chair for co-direction at the Centre for Work Transformation and Business Transformation at the University of Münster in Germany. Before this role, she served as an assistant professor at the University of Dublin and LMU Munich. Having received several international awards, Julia is focused on the impact of social and technological change on (collaborative) work, leadership, and innovation.
Cal Newport is a computer science professor trained at MIT and teaching at Georgetown University in the United States. He writes extensively about technology, work, and the pursuit of depth in an increasingly distracting world. His publications include eight books such as Lower Productivity, Email-Free World, Digital Minimalism, and Deep Work.
Cemetery shifts earn their name for a reason. Individuals working night shifts face heightened health risks, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and depression. The World Health Organization has identified shift work as a potential carcinogen, given the increased likelihood of cancer.
While the rest of us are asleep, these night workers often go unnoticed, yet their efforts are vital to the medical and emergency services on which we rely. Though we depend on them for our very survival, the irony lies in how their work impacts their own health.
This situation could evolve with the advent of a test that accurately measures one’s internal biological clock in relation to external time (see “How innovative new tests can unleash the power of your body clock”). Such advancements in medicine promise to benefit a larger population.
Research indicates that many frequently used medications affect the body’s system, which operates on a 24-hour cycle, and are more effective when administered in harmony with this rhythm. Surgeries and vaccinations also yield better results at specific times of the day. Initial strategies often rely on standardized biological clocks, but for those whose circadian rhythms are misaligned, this approach may prove ineffective or even detrimental. This is where the new tests come into play.
Night workers may remain in the shadows, yet they are the backbone of essential services we all rely on.
Fortunately, these tests are expected to become more affordable and widely accessible. However, there is a concern that they could be misused by those anxiously trying to optimize their health, perhaps alongside other fitness metrics like step counts (refer to page 16).
The genuine potential lies in using these tests to gain insights into the biological processes of those in challenging situations, ensuring that in the future, the effects of nighttime work and improved strategies for managing shift patterns are addressed. One day, your biological clock may finally align with the external clock.
This could mitigate the health repercussions associated with night shifts and provide these employees with a chance to revitalize their lives. Employers must recognize this opportunity.
Plastic polymers are everywhere in our daily lives, and their durability makes them suitable for numerous uses, yet effective disposal remains a significant issue. Recent discoveries of various plastiboa insects reveal their extraordinary capability to consume and swiftly decompose petroplastics. Specifically focusing on caterpillars of the Great Wax Moth (Galleria Mellonella)—commonly known as wax worms—and low-density polyethylene, researchers have explored the extent of plastic consumption, the roles of insects and their microbiota in biodegradation, and the impact of plastic ingestion on larvae health.
Polyethylene decomposition using wax worms. Left: Plastic bag after 12 hours of exposure to approximately 100 wax worms. Right: Enlarge the area shown in the image on the left. Image credit: Bomb et al doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2017.02.060.
Plastic is essential in contemporary life, but its disposal is extremely challenging due to its resistance to biodegradation.
In 2017, researchers illustrated that larger wax moth caterpillars can effectively break down polyethylene plastics.
Polyethylene is the most widely produced plastic globally, with an annual production exceeding 100 million tons.
This plastic’s chemical properties make it resistant to decomposition, often taking decades or even centuries to fully break down.
“Around 2,000 wax worms can degrade an entire polyethylene bag within just 24 hours, and we believe that supplementing this process with nutrients like sugar could significantly decrease the required number of worms,” said Dr. Brian Catthorne, a biologist at Brandon University.
“However, understanding the biological mechanisms and fitness implications linked to plastic biodegradation is crucial for harnessing wax worms for large-scale plastic remediation.”
Utilizing diverse methods combining animal physiology, materials science, molecular biology, and genomics, Dr. Catthorne and colleagues examined wax worms, their bacterial microbiome, and the potential for extensive plastic biodegradation, including the effects of wax worms on their health and survival.
“This scenario is akin to consuming steaks. When over-saturated, excess fat is stored in adipose tissue as lipid reserves instead of being used as energy,” Dr. Catthorne explained.
“Waxworms have a proclivity for polyethylene, yet this study indicates that such a diet can lead to rapid mortality.”
“They cannot survive for more than a few days on plastic-exclusive diets and undergo substantial mass loss.”
“Nonetheless, we are optimistic about devising a co-supply strategy that not only restores fitness to a natural level.”
Researchers have pinpointed two ways in which wax worms could aid in tackling the ongoing plastic pollution dilemma.
“Firstly, as part of a circular economy, we can efficiently process large quantities of rear wax worms derived from the supplemented polyethylene diet,” Dr. Catthorne noted.
“Secondly, we could explore redesigning the plastic biodegradation pathways outside of these insects.”
“A further advantage is that mass-producing wax worms yields a significant surplus of insect biomass, offering additional economic prospects for aquaculture.”
“Our preliminary findings suggest they could be incorporated into a nutrient-rich diet for commercially available food fish.”
Emotions can manifest as physical sensations—be it a surge of anger, a flutter of excitement, or waves of joy, our feelings often have a tangible presence in our bodies.
This phenomenon arises from the interplay between our mental and physical states.
For instance, experiencing anxiety on a first date may trigger a fight-or-flight response, leading to the release of hormones like adrenaline, which elevate heart rate and tense muscles, allowing you to perceive sensations in your chest and throughout your body.
Both positive and negative emotions can influence various bodily functions, including digestion, breathing, perspiration, skin sensitivity, salivation, blood circulation, body temperature, facial tension, and more.
That’s why we often refer to “gut feelings” and “nervous energy.” These physiological shifts can significantly impact our emotions, creating a continual feedback loop connecting our body and mind.
In 2013, a Finnish researcher conducted a study in which individuals mapped out how different emotions corresponded to specific body areas.
While each person’s emotional experience is unique, common sensations can often be found in specific regions. For example, anger typically resonates in the chest and hands, while happiness is prominently felt in the chest and face.
Over time, our perceptions of where we feel emotions in our bodies may have evolved.
A follow-up study in 2024 examined the emotional mappings of people in ancient Mesopotamia (present-day Iraq) by analyzing a million words from historical texts to discover connections between emotions and body parts.
Researchers noted some parallels with present-day emotional responses. For instance, pride was linked to the heart by Mesopotamians, while happiness was most closely associated with the liver, and anger was related to the feet.
These distinctions may stem from Mesopotamian cultural beliefs surrounding the body, wherein the liver was viewed as the central organ of the soul’s essence.
This article addresses the inquiry from Elisevarn of Sheffield: “Why do we feel emotions in different parts of our body?”
For any questions, please email us atQuestion @sciencefocus.com or reach out viaFacebook,Twitter, orInstagramPage (please include your name and location).
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The #MeToo movement against women’s sexual abuse gained traction in 2017, leading to what I term the #Anatomytoo moment, during which the derogatory anatomical label attached to female genitals was challenged and deemed unacceptable.
The long-used term for the vulva, referring to the external genitalia of women, was “Pudendum,” a word that historically reflected a biased view within the male-dominated medical field. Interestingly, “Pudendum” traces back to the Latin word Pudere, meaning “to be ashamed,” casting the female anatomy in a negative light as something shameful.
What’s even more unfortunate is that for centuries, “Pudendum” was applied equally to both men’s and women’s external genitals. Over time, men shed the associated stigma, leaving women to bear the burden of this label alone.
Consequently, it’s not surprising that many women feel discomfort regarding their genitals. A UK study revealed that 65% of young women struggle to use terms like “vulva” or “vagina.” This part of their own body often remains unnamed.
Names carry significant weight, as reflected in the evolution of the term “Pudendum.” As a result, it was removed from official anatomical terminology in 2019.
But “Pudendum” is just the surface issue in the broader context of male dominance in anatomy. Female anatomy features a considerable number of anatomical eponyms, which are body parts named after individuals, predominantly male.
A review of 700 anatomical terms identified that 424 were named after male doctors. Among the few exceptions, there was only one woman and several mythological figures and historical leaders, highlighting the gender imbalance.
This systemic patriarchy is unsurprising, given that in 1847, when many of these terms were coined, women were seldom represented in the study of internal anatomy, particularly regarding female reproductive organs.
For example, Gabriele Falloppio is commemorated in the namesake tube connecting the uterus to the ovaries, while Skene’s Glands, named after Alexander Skene, contribute to female ejaculation. The “G” in G-spot honors Ernst Gräfenberg, whereas Bartholin’s gland is named for Caspar Bartholin the younger, linked to sexual lubrication near the vaginal entrance.
The prevalence of masculine terminology is one reason why medical professionals increasingly favor more precise terms. For instance, Bartholin’s glands are referred to as the larger vestibular glands, and Skene’s glands are called paraglandular glands, while the fallopian tube is termed the uterine tube.
Despite this push for change, anatomical eponyms remain widely used in both medical practice and everyday language. Terms like “Fallopian Tube” have yet to be fully supplanted by more contemporary terminology. Moreover, even when linguistic adjustments are made, vestiges of the original terminology often stick around.
While “Pudendum” is eliminated, the equally charged term “Pudendal” survives, referring to female nerves, arteries, veins, and canals, perpetuating remnants of male-centric anatomical language. Most people remain unfamiliar with these terms.
Unlike “vagina,” which is derived from the Latin word for “sheath,” suggesting an alternative name of “vagina,” rebranding this term isn’t on the agenda. However, many still overlook the fact that other female reproductive parts also deserve recognition.
For pudendal nerves and arteries, only one term in the anatomical lexicon encapsulates their enduring stigma: it remains an embarrassment.
Intermittent fasting has emerged as a popular approach to enhance health and boost metabolism. However, recent research indicates that its advantages may be diminished by body fat due to inconspicuous disruptions in the liver’s hunger adaptation.
In a study, researchers assessed liver modifications in both healthy and obese mice that lacked leptin, the hormone responsible for regulating appetite, during food deprivation periods. Intermittent fasting entails extended calorie restriction followed by a regular eating window.
Both mouse groups exhibited similar metabolic networks, comprising liver molecules that collaboratively manage energy; however, significant differences in timing were observed.
“In a healthy liver, energy-centric molecules such as adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and adenosine monophosphate (AMP) quickly respond to starvation and modulate various metabolic reactions,” stated Professor Shinya Kuroda in BBC Science Focus.
“This mechanism appears to be deficient and confused in obese individuals.”
To put it differently, in healthy mice, energy-related molecules like ATP and AMP operate as primary hubs, swiftly adapting metabolic responses to conserve and redistribute energy. Conversely, in obese mice, these molecules did not exhibit a quick response, resulting in a sluggish and disoriented reaction to starvation.
A rapid response from ATP and AMP during periods of food scarcity enables the liver to utilize energy from stored reserves. This process is believed to facilitate several benefits of intermittent fasting, such as weight reduction and better glycemic control.
Through a combination of structural and temporal metabolic analyses, the research team elucidates how obesity induces metabolic “jet lag,” complicating not just the timing but also the manner in which crucial molecular events transpire.
“Our findings could have significant implications for enhancing the effectiveness of intermittent fasting in humans,” Kuroda remarked.
“Next, we aim to identify easily detectable blood-based biomarkers in humans,” Kuroda added. “Ultimately, clinical research is necessary to assess our findings. The journey is lengthy, but every thousand-mile journey begins with a single step.”
Shinya Kuroda is a professor at the Faculty of Science at the University of Tokyo, Japan, focusing on Systems Biology. His research includes publications in Cell, Journal of Biochemistry, and Natural Cell Biology.
Bone collector caterpillar from the Waianae Mountains of Oahu, Hawaii
Daniel Rubinov et al. 2025
The newly described “Bone Collector” caterpillar species disguises itself as dead insect body parts, allowing them to live in spiders and poach their prey. This is the only caterpillar known to use such a scary camouflage or have a roommate-like spider, a carnivorous animal and a booty cannibalism.
Daniel Rubinoff At the University of Hawaii, Manoa and his colleagues discovered a caterpillar while hiking the Waianae Mountains of Oahu over 20 years ago. They were looking for other species in the same genus, Low mass tumorAlso known as the Hawaiian Fancy Case Caterpillar. “I saw this little, tiny sac covered in a bit of a bug and honestly, I didn’t know what it was,” Rubinov says. “Then we’ll get it back [to the lab]and we realize there is a bit of a caterpillar there.
Newly described species of Low mass tumor – Has not yet received the scientific name – lives in a co-neck inside the trunk of a tree, among rocks and other enclosed spaces. It is the length of its claws and feeds on insects trapped in spider nets. “Only 0.13% of all caterpillars on the planet are carnivorous,” says Rubinoff. “That’s why it’s very difficult for caterpillars to evolve to eat meat.”
Bone collectors avoid becoming the prey itself in creepy ways. Decorate the silk case with fragments of dead insects and molted exoskeletons of spiders. Before disguising it, the creature carefully sizes each body part that may contain the ant’s head, beetle’s abdomen, or fly wings.
Bone Collector Caterpillar (left) uses his horrifying disguise to live safely in a spider (right)
Daniel Rubinov et al. 2025
“It’s probably the only way to survive with the spider, by covering yourself with the skin of the spider’s own shed and small pieces of past meals,” says Rubinov. This will make the caterpillars smell and taste more like garbage bags than juicy snacks for Arknido Housemates. After about 2-3 months it transforms into moth, smaller than the grain of rice.
If bone collectors are not fully accessorized, this caterpillar is also a cannibal. Researchers learned this after placing two larvae in the same cage, leading to one larger bet for smaller, weaker siblings. This is why only one bone collector is displayed per Spider Web, says Rubinoff.
Researchers have discovered only 62 of these creatures over more than 150 field studies conducted over approximately 22 years.
Genetic analysis shows that the lineage is more than 3 million years old than Oahu, meaning it was once again spreading. “Since humans arrived in places like this, we have lost many native species,” says Rubinoff. “Both we were able to find is a miracle [the bone collector]and it’s really sad that they are so restricted to this one place.
E-cigarettes have been credited with helping millions of people in the UK quit smoking, but that doesn’t mean they are without risks.
Vaping may contain fewer harmful substances like nicotine, TAR, and other toxins compared to traditional tobacco, but it is still linked to long-term health issues and can be addictive. Your body may need time to adjust and overcome the addiction completely.
If you are heavily reliant on vaping and nicotine, quitting cold turkey can lead to withdrawal symptoms, including cravings, anxiety, irritability, dizziness, fatigue, headaches, and changes in appetite. These symptoms usually peak around 72 hours after you stop vaping as nicotine leaves your system entirely.
As you approach this 72-hour mark, you may start noticing improvements in taste and smell, clearer breathing, lower blood pressure and heart rate, and reduced chest tightness and shortness of breath.
Currently, an estimated 5.6 million British people are vaping
A survey by the non-smoking charity Truth Initiative found that 90% of people who quit vaping reported reduced stress, anxiety, and depression.
The lungs have the ability to repair themselves, and within a year of quitting nicotine altogether, lung capacity and immune function improve significantly, especially for former smokers.
While long-term effects of quitting vaping are still unknown due to its recent emergence, experts generally agree that the risk of cancer and heart disease is likely to decrease after quitting e-cigarettes.
This article addresses the question (from an email by Antonia Fletcher), “What happens if you stop vaping?”
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Postpartum recovery takes longer than the traditional six-week period commonly referred to as the “fourth stage.” Recent research conducted by biologists at the Wiseman Institute of Science and Helen Schneider Women’s Hospital in Israel, and Yale University School of Medicine in the United States, suggests that it may take more than a year for the body to settle into a new normal after giving birth.
Professor Uriaron, a systems biologist at the Weizmann Institute of Science, led the study and emphasized the importance of understanding the extended recovery period postpartum. Using data from over 300,000 Israeli births, the researchers analyzed how various health markers changed between four and a half months to a year and a half after giving birth.
The study revealed that only 47% of the health markers studied stabilized within a month of delivery, while 12% took 4-10 weeks, and the remaining 41% took more than 10 weeks to stabilize. Some markers, such as bone and liver health, took up to 56 weeks to stabilize after childbirth.
Although certain health measurements improved over time, they did not return to pre-pregnancy levels even after a year and a half postpartum. The study also highlighted potential risk factors for pregnancy disorders but did not analyze differences between breastfeeding.
The effects of breastfeeding on the postpartum body have not been analyzed in this study, but may provide useful insights in future studies. – Credit: Igor Alessander via Getty
Experts like Professor Rebecca Reynolds, Professor Uriaron, and Professor Dimitrios Siassakos have provided valuable insights into the study’s findings. This research offers a detailed understanding of how the body changes after childbirth, which can potentially improve postnatal care.
Read more:
About our experts:
Professor Uriaron: He is a system biologist at the Weizmann Institute of Science and the lead researcher at Uri Alon Lab.
Professor Rebecca Reynolds: She is a professor of metabolic medicine at the University of Edinburgh, focusing on understanding the mechanisms linking intrauterine development to health and illness.
Professor Dimitrios Siassakos: He is an honorary consultant in obstetrics at University College London and University College Hospital, contributing to various clinical care groups and research initiatives.
As anyone who goes through it knows, pregnancy transforms the body a lot. And now we have the most detailed picture of how it affects the blood, organs and immune system each week. This not only helps to provide post-pregnancy treatment, but also helps to identify the risk of developing certain conditions during pregnancy.
“We’ve got an unprecedented view of how much it takes a mother’s body to change weekly, to make up for the incredible load and how long it takes to recover after delivery,” he says. Uriaron At the Wiseman Institute of Science, Rehobot, Israel.
Despite its importance, pregnancy has not been studied, Aron says. For example, previous studies have tracked how about 20 blood markers change, including salt and iron levels. Up to about 6 weeks for dozens of pregnant women After delivery, samples collected during standard healthcare will be used. “These experiments are usually performed in a small number of patients and sample only once at the late pregnancy or at each time point,” Aron says.
To gain a more comprehensive view, Aron and his colleagues analyzed previously collected blood samples from over 160,000 women in Israel, ages 25 to 31. Together, these samples provided weekly, weekly physical snapshots from 20 weeks of conception to 18 months after birth, with each woman providing several points of data. This approach gives useful insight into how the body generally changes during pregnancy at the population level, but says that following the same woman over time will provide a better picture of the individual trajectory. Christofree Imperial College London.
The researchers mapped changes in 76 blood markers, including levels of protein, fat and salt that show the functioning of the liver, kidneys, blood, muscle, bone and immune system. They found that each of these markers differed significantly from preconcept levels during pregnancy to gradually return to preconceived levels or reverse overshooting before returning to preconceived baseline.
In particular, scientists found that 36 markers, including those associated with blood clotting, bounced off within a month of delivery, but 31 markers took more than 10 weeks to recover. For example, some changes to the liver and immune system took about 5 months to return to prepregnancy levels, and some kidney markers took about six months. Some bone and muscle markers took even longer. It is unclear what exactly this means for women’s health, but it should be investigated in future work, Aron says.
Additionally, several other markers did not return to baseline levels for more than one year after birth. “The slightly archaic view that by six or eight weeks after pregnancy, everyone is completely back to normal is clearly wrong,” says Leeds.
For example, iron levels remained much lower after giving birth. “Women are very likely to have anemia [have low iron levels] I think it will take 6-12 months for the iron shop to return to normal after giving birth due to bleeding, and as the developing fetus removes many iron stores from the body.
Meanwhile, levels of proteins called CRP remained high. “CRP is affected by many different processes. Inflammation is certainly one of them, but things like hormonal changes can also affect this,” says Lees. In another analysis, the team examined differences in markers between women with prelammosis. This saw people who are pregnant and not with hypertension, where high blood pressure can cause headaches, vision problems and pain under the ribs. This revealed that women who developed pre-lamp syndrome before conception had increased levels of blood cell fragments called platelets and proteins called ALT.
“For decades, the idea was that if the placenta wasn’t properly planted and not properly planted, the blood supply would be destroyed and the mother would release the hormones and substances that would help her blood pressure,” says Leeds. “However, some studies suggest that those who developed it have different cardiovascular functions before pregnancy. These findings add weight to this theory.”
If further studies have shown that these conceptual markers actually indicate the risk of pre-lammosis, they could be used to identify potentially high-risk women. “Then you can target ways to improve your health before pregnancy (through exercise and lifestyle advice) and reduce your risk,” says Leeds.
A recent comprehensive study has uncovered the significant health benefits and potential drawbacks of Ozempic and Wegovy. Groundbreaking research has shown that weight loss medications, such as Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) like Ozempic and Wegovy, can have a total of 61 effects on the body, most of which are positive.
These drugs function by imitating the hormones naturally created in the body to regulate appetite, thereby promoting a sense of fullness and reducing hunger.
“Given the novelty and increasing popularity of these medications, it is crucial to thoroughly investigate their effects on various bodily systems to gain a comprehensive understanding of their benefits and risks,” said the study’s lead researcher, Dr. Ziyad Al Ali, an Assistant Professor at the School of Medicine, University of Washington, USA.
The research team, led by Al-Aly, discovered that these weight loss drugs could lower the risk of 42 health conditions while increasing the risk of 19 others.
The Positive Effects of Weight Loss Drugs
Published in Nature Medicine, the study analyzed data from 2 million individuals with diabetes, with approximately 216,000 using GLP-1RAs and the rest on other diabetes medications that do not include GLP-1RAs. The results suggested numerous health benefits for those using weight loss drugs, including a decreased risk of cardiovascular issues like blood clots, heart attacks, and strokes, aligning with previous research findings.
Additionally, beyond the known benefits, researchers discovered potential advantages in unexpected areas. Despite concerns about GLP-1RAs potentially causing suicidal thoughts, new research found positive impacts on neurological health. Users experienced reduced risks of conditions such as suicidal ideation, self-harm, substance use disorders, psychotic disorders like schizophrenia, and bulimia.
Al-Aly proposed that the mechanisms responsible for weight loss could also influence these outcomes. The drugs act on brain receptors associated with impulse control, reward, and addiction, potentially explaining their efficacy in curbing appetite and addiction disorders.
Furthermore, individuals using these drugs were less prone to cognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, likely due to reduced brain inflammation. They also exhibited lower risks of seizures, bacterial infections, and pneumonia.
Although these medications do not serve as cures (the researchers noted a 10-20% risk reduction for these conditions), the benefits, especially for conditions like dementia with limited treatment options, remain significant.
The Hidden Risks of Weight Loss Drugs
Despite the numerous potential benefits of GLP-1RA drugs, there are also associated risks. Users showed increased susceptibility to gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, low blood pressure, and arthritis. Surprisingly, researchers identified a heightened risk of rare but severe pancreatic and kidney diseases.
“GLP-1RA drugs offer a wide array of health benefits,” Al Ali stated. “However, they are not without risks. Our findings underscore the importance of monitoring these drugs closely due to their broad usage and potential risks.” He emphasized the need for caution.
While the results could guide clinical care, some researchers raised concerns about the study’s design not considering other potential effects. They cautioned that interpretation should proceed with care, as the differences between individuals using GLP-1RAs like Ozempic and those who do not may stem from factors beyond the drug itself.
“Studies like this should be approached with caution, as individuals were not randomly assigned to GLP-1RA treatment,” explained Professor Stephen O’Rahilly, Director of the Wellcome MRC Metabolism Laboratory at the Metabolism Research Institute in Cambridge. He further stated that while the study provides reassurance on the drugs’ safety, caution remains necessary.
The researchers from the University of Washington recognized that their findings only observed associations and did not prove causation for the benefits or risks of GLP-1RAs. Additionally, the study participants primarily comprised older white men, indicating a need for future research to encompass a more diverse population.
Despite this limitation, the findings anticipate future research targeting a broader demographic. O’Rahilly suggested that the results offer reassurance regarding the risk/benefit balance of long-term GLP-1RA use in diabetic patients, creating anticipation for forthcoming investigations.
Comprehensive List of GLP-1RA Effects
Positive Effects
The study revealed that drugs like Ozempic could significantly reduce the risk of 42 health conditions, including:
shock
aspiration pneumonia
liver failure
respiratory failure
cardiac arrest
Bulimia
schizophrenia
pulmonary hypertension
Postoperative respiratory complications
liver cancer
sepsis
stimulant use disorder
pneumonia
Thromboembolic disorders
pleural effusion
hemorrhagic stroke
chronic phlebitis
opioid use disorder
inflammatory bowel disease
cannabis use disorder
bacterial infection
acute pulmonary embolism
acute kidney injury
Aftereffects after thrombosis
pneumonia
heart failure
gangrene
alcohol use disorder
suicidal thoughts
seizure
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
osteomyelitis
myocardial infarction
muscle pain
heat
deep vein thrombosis
Coagulopathy and clotting disorders
ischemic stroke
Neurocognitive disorders
urinary tract infection
chronic kidney disease
anemia
Negative Effects
The study also indicated a heightened risk of 19 health conditions associated with drugs like Ozempic, including:
An orca that carried around a dead calf for several days in 2018 appears to be repeating the same behavior with a newly dead calf.
Scientists believe the killer whales are likely expressing sadness.
Killer whales are part of an endangered subpopulation known as southern killer whales.
Nearly six years ago, a mother orca attracted international attention when she carried a dead calf for 17 days straight. Sadly, the whale now appears to be repeating what researchers say is an expression of grief over another deceased newborn.
The mother whale, also known as J35 or Tahlequah, was first spotted with her new calf on December 20th. But on Wednesday, researchers with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration photographed a whale with a dead calf on its head off the coast of West Seattle.
“We can confirm that J31 lost the calf and was pushing it around on its head,” Brad Hanson, a researcher at NOAA’s Northwest Fisheries Science Center, said in a press conference Thursday.
He said that when the calf is about to sink, “she seems to do a high arch dive to retrieve the calf, but at that point you can’t really tell if she’s pushing or grabbing the calf.” added. ”
Scientists said they believe Tahlequah likely carried the dead calf as an expression of grief. Whales have a similar wiring structure to humans and other large, long-lived social mammals, Joe Gaydos, scientific director of the Sea Dog Society, an ocean research organization, said at a press conference.
“We have the same neurotransmitters as they do. We have the same hormones as they do. Shouldn’t we have the same emotions that they have? We are a market cornered by emotions.” So I think it’s fair to say she’s sad or grieving,” Gaydos said, adding that similar behavior has been observed in dolphins and non-human primates. added.
Tahlequah, also known as J35, and a dead calf. NOAA
J35 is part of an endangered subpopulation of whales known as southern killer whales. The death of Tahlequah’s calf and the recent birth of another killer whale left the group at just 73 individuals.
Over the years, Tahlequah has had two surviving calves, both male, one born in 2020.
Southerners have been given tracking numbers by the Center for Whale Research and are closely watched by researchers, photographers and whale watchers, especially if they are near Puget Sound communities like Seattle.
Scientists have been following the story of the dead calf for weeks. Hanson said NOAA researchers discovered the female calf themselves on Dec. 23 after a citizen scientist first noticed the female calf, called J61. They were concerned about the calf’s health at the time because it appeared to be struggling and surfacing unusually, he said.
It is not uncommon for orca pups to die shortly after birth. Michael Weiss, director of research at the Center for Whale Research, said the first year of life is the biggest hurdle to survival.
Approximately 70% to 80% of calves that researchers can record and give identification numbers survive the first few years.
“We don’t know exactly what the survival rate is, probably because so many calves are born and die before they are photographed or recorded,” Weiss says. “Probably 50 percent of calves born will survive the first year.”
NOAA researchers said they are now concerned about Tahlequah’s own health because pushing his calves creates a lot of resistance in the water and requires a lot of energy.
“One thing she probably doesn’t have time for is feeding,” Hanson said. “We are concerned that she is expending so much energy caring for her lost calf.”
This is a typical calving season for southern whales. Hanson said researchers were encouraged by the birth of another killer whale, called J62. The orca was first spotted by observers on Dec. 30 and confirmed by the Cetacean Research Center on New Year’s Day.
“It appears to be very robust,” Hanson said.
Southern killer whales have been the subject of conservation efforts for decades. They are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act and were listed as endangered in 2005.
Whales typically spend several months each year along the Puget Sound coastline in Washington state. They live in three pods called J, K, and L, and have evolved to eat primarily fish, including the prized Chinook salmon.
In the early 1960s, many of Minami’s killer whales were killed or captured, and some of the surviving killer whales were put on display in marine parks. As of 1974, surveys showed that only 71 individuals remained in the wild. The population has since fluctuated, reaching a high of 95 people in 1995, but has declined since then.
The main reasons why whales are struggling are a decline in the quality and quantity of their prey and pollution from industrial chemicals such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) that contaminate their prey and accumulate in their bodies. Additionally, ship noise can disturb whales and prevent communication.
Research shows that unless more aggressive action is taken, the southern population is on a path to extinction. Already, Washington state and federal agencies have invested more than $1 billion in programs to reduce threats to whales. But the essential point still remains. Southerners simply don’t have enough food.
Major rivers that were once rich in salmon, including the lower Snake River, have been dammed, limiting access to and survival of salmon.
“We’re not doing enough on chinook recovery and salmon recovery,” Gaydos said.
For struggling southerners, the loss of a female calf is a devastating blow not only to the mother but to the trajectory of the subspecies as a whole.
“The real limit is the number of females that reach reproductive age and their ability to actually raise calves successfully. So we would like to see more females in the population.” Weiss said.
Studies have shown the alarming extent of microplastics traveling through our bodies.
Scientists have discovered tiny plastic particles in various parts of the human body, such as the lungs, testicles, placenta, and even breast milk. The ingestion and inhalation of microplastics can lead to allergic reactions, inflammation, and an increased risk of certain diseases. You can find more information here.
There are concerns about the possibility of absorbing plastic through the skin when washing synthetic clothing, as it emits microplastics that are smaller than 5 mm. Research is ongoing to determine if there are any risks associated with skin contact with plastic fibers. While the skin is a natural barrier that protects us from the outside world, there is evidence suggesting that some chemical additives in certain products can be absorbed into the skin. Learn more here.
It is generally believed that microplastics cannot penetrate the outermost layer of the skin – Credit: Svetlozar Hristov
While microplastics can get trapped in hair follicles and wrinkles, they are not thought to be able to reach other parts of the body through the bloodstream. Some flame retardants in various products have been shown to pass through the skin barrier and enter the bloodstream, albeit in low levels. Find out more here.
This article addresses the question posed by Natalie Reid from London: Can plastics and chemicals be absorbed through the skin?
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People with a uterus experience menstruation about once every 28 days for approximately 40 years of their lives.
Menstruation goes beyond just blood. It’s common for 84% of women to experience menstrual pain regularly. Severe menstrual pain can lead women to miss numerous days of education or work each month. Additionally, periods are costly, with an estimated lifetime cost of around 4,800 pounds (approximately $6,100).
Given these challenges, it’s only natural to want to stop menstruation. While periods may naturally cease during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or menopause, many women in the UK opt to stop their menstrual cycles using hormonal contraception.
Contraceptive pills, implants, and hormonal coils work by releasing hormones that prevent ovulation. Without an egg being released or the lining of the uterus thickening for pregnancy, menstruation, which occurs due to shedding of this lining, typically stops when it ceases to grow.
“There’s nothing harmful about not having a menstrual cycle,” affirms Dr. Nicola Tempest, a researcher and gynecologist at Liverpool Women’s Hospital. “Taking hormones doesn’t detract from your body’s wellbeing.”
But are there any drawbacks to not having periods?
For individuals with regular menstrual cycles (not taking hormonal contraceptives), the sudden absence of periods may signify underlying health issues.
While the occasional missed period isn’t typically worrisome, a prolonged absence of periods after having regular cycles could indicate potential problems such as early menopause or polycystic ovarian syndrome.
Tempest notes that individuals with such conditions may require hormone medication as part of their treatment, which could help in diagnosing these conditions along with other associated symptoms, even if periods have ceased due to birth control pills.
There may be certain side effects associated with hormonal contraceptives, such as a slight increase in the risk of breast, liver, and cervical cancer with long-term use. However, Tempest emphasizes that prolonged use of birth control also reduces the risk of endometrial and ovarian cancer.
In her view, menstruation is not an indispensable aspect of a person’s health. “If you wish to forego menstruation, you have that choice,” she states.
This article addresses the question “Can I stop my period?” posed by Veronica Nielson via email.
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Meet our experts:
Dr. Nicola Tempest I am a clinical researcher and gynecologist at Liverpool Women’s Hospital. Her research includes chronic pelvic pain, exercise and reproduction, and endometriosis.
Creatine supplements are usually available in powder form
Shutterstock/RHJPhtotos
Creatine is one of the most widely studied performance-enhancing substances in the world. Once dismissed as just a bodybuilding supplement, its popularity among the public is growing alongside the interest of scientists.
Although this supplement is commonly associated with improving strength and muscle mass, evidence suggests that it actually helps: growth of children and to the brain health of adolescents.
“After 8pm [to] After 30 years of research into physical performance, we have discovered many health benefits.” richard crider at Texas A&M University. “This is a remarkable nutrient that helps our cells in a variety of ways, not just athletic performance.”
What is creatine?
This is a compound that is naturally produced in our bodies and in the bodies of other vertebrates. It is primarily found in the muscles, but also appears in the brain, blood, testicles, and other tissues and organs.
Our bodies synthesize creatine, with 1 to 2 grams produced daily by the liver, kidneys, pancreas, and brain. People who eat protein-rich animal foods get about the same amount from their diet.
“When you consume protein, that protein is made up of amino acids. When three specific amino acids combine, they form a molecule called creatine.” scott forbes At Brandon University, Canada.
How does creatine work in the body?
According to Forbes, it plays a key role in the complex way our bodies produce energy at the cellular level. “It is converted into a molecule called phosphocreatine, stored, and then rapidly broken down into energy.”
Similar to carbohydrates, creatine is used for: Generates adenosine triphosphate (ATP)stores energy and supplies it to cells. It also seems to have the effect of protecting structures, Function of mitochondriathe energy power plant inside the cell.
Forbes says creatine is especially helpful when you're stressed or when your tissues are starved of oxygen due to conditions like asthma or anemia. “Any situation where you might need more energy,” he says.
How does it affect physical performance?
Creatine is available as a sports supplement Since the early 1990shas long been recognized for helping athletes increase strength and speed.
There are thousands of studies supporting this, Kreider says. “Athletes with higher creatine stores sprint faster, recover faster, do more total work, and have 10-15% better performance and training adaptability. That's not humbling at all. ”
By supplementing with creatine, increase in muscle masswhich is why it is popular among bodybuilders. “We know that trained athletes can gain up to 10 pounds of muscle mass within five to 10 weeks,” Kreider says. “That's deep. If you compare it to a control where someone just trains and eats normally, they could gain half a kilogram a month.”
Creatine supplements can be especially beneficial later in life. “Creatine is recommended for active aging to reduce muscle loss.” [and] to maintain muscle performance,” Kreider says.
However, researchers stress that this is not a panacea to replace a healthy lifestyle. Forbes says, “Real benefits are only achieved when combined with exercise and strength training, especially when it comes to muscle growth.”
What effect does creatine have on the brain?
Many papers have shown that creatine supplementation can improve aspects of cognitive performance. A small study published earlier this year found that after taking a single dose of creatine, improve memory Compared to a placebo, sleep-deprived people had processing speeds of less than 3 hours.
However, not all studies have yielded consistent results. In 2023, the largest randomized, placebo-controlled study of creatine's effects on cognition to date. small beneficial effectwhich corresponds to an increase of 1 to 2.5 points in intelligence quotient (IQ).
“Most studies show that it can affect the brain, but in young, healthy people, unless the brain is stressed by lack of sleep or mental fatigue, it can have a significant effect on the brain. It doesn’t seem to play a role,” Forbes said.
And although research on this is still in its early stages, it may also have protective effects against neurodegenerative diseases. For example, Alzheimer's patients low amount of creatine Brain or even physical brain damage.
“For example, when you have a concussion, you're essentially experiencing an ischemic phenomenon, meaning areas of the brain are starved of oxygen, limiting their function and causing swelling and inflammation.” Ryder says. “At least in animals given creatine, we find that concussion injuries are reduced by about half.”
How does creatine affect our overall health?
Because creatine acts at the cellular level, researchers believe its positive effects may be widespread within the body. “We found that increasing energy availability within the cell is important, especially when there are many constraints on the energy supply,” says Kreider. “For example, if you have a heart attack or stroke, [creatine] Because you are protecting the cells, the scale of the damage is reduced. ”
Analysis of data from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey also suggests that creatine may have the following effects: beneficial for children. “Children who grow up with less creatine in their diets have less muscle, are shorter, and have higher body fat,” Kreider says. “Adolescent girls with higher creatine levels have fewer menstrual cycle problems.”
There is an emerging consensus among scientists that creatine supplementation is beneficial for almost everyone. Over time, Kreider predicts this will become recommended for specific groups, such as the elderly, pregnant people, and people who don't eat meat, fish, or dairy products.
He also thinks certain foods will one day be fortified with creatine. “It starts in the plant-based space, adding creatine to things like plant-based protein powders and veggie burgers,” Kreider says. “That way we can fill in the gaps in their diets.”
Does it matter when I take creatine?
Time of day may only be important for athletes who are trying to win a race or beat a personal best. “We've found that if you take this right near your workout, your results will be a little bit better,” says Forbes.
However, creatine is also stored in the body as an energy store. “Think of an endurance athlete whose pace changes during a race,” says Forbes. “All of a sudden someone runs away and you're like, 'Hey, how did they do that?'” Well, they changed the power output pretty drastically, and I think creatine plays a role in that. . ”
Although the effects of supplements are relatively long-lasting, they still need to be repeated. “Once you stop taking creatine, it takes four to six weeks to return to baseline,” says Forbes. “Some people cycle with and without creatine, but no study has ever compared consuming creatine for long periods of time on and off cycling to simply taking creatine.”
How should I take it?
Creatine is available in powder, tablet, or gummy form. In terms of effectiveness, tablets and powders tend to be the formulations tested in research because they've been around for a while, but there doesn't seem to be any difference between them.
There are also different types of creatine available, but creatine monohydrate is the most widely available and the most well-studied.
Does creatine have side effects?
According to Forbes, supplements are generally considered safe at the doses most people take (about 5 grams a day). However, some people report dehydration and muscle cramps. “We have several people with gastrointestinal disorders.” [gastrointestinal] It’s painful,” Forbes said. “They're taking creatine, but it doesn't sit well in their stomachs. For those people, we recommend lowering their creatine intake.”
You may need to consult your doctor before taking supplements
Imagine being able to visualize every aspect of our bodies, from our genes to the smallest cells that make up our organs. Scientists are now working on creating a comprehensive directory known as the Human Cell Atlas.
Think of it as a GPS for cells in the body, containing information on how cells evolve over time. This groundbreaking study, spanning 40 research papers, could potentially unravel major scientific mysteries such as bone formation, arthritis, and Crohn’s disease development.
Researchers have already gathered data on over 100 million cells from more than 10,000 individuals, with hopes of incorporating this information in the final atlas, which could potentially include billions of cells.
Professor Sarah Teichmann, the founding co-chair of the Human Cell Atlas and a researcher at the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, stated, “This new level of insight into specific genes, mechanisms, and cell types within tissues lays the foundation for more accurate diagnosis, innovative drug discovery, and advanced regenerative medicine approaches.”
One significant milestone in the project focuses on the digestive system. By compiling data from 1.6 million cells, researchers have created an intricate map of intestinal cells, detailing their types, locations, and interactions within the body – the most detailed map of its kind.
Utilizing sophisticated techniques such as computer analysis and artificial intelligence (AI), researchers isolated individual cells and identified them, demonstrating the potential for AI in disease diagnosis.
A new approach similar to a “reverse image search” is being employed by researchers to aid in disease diagnosis, potentially revolutionizing the field.
Two striking images from the study stand out:
Image credit: Nathan Richoz University of Cambridge
This captivating image displays a magnified view of lung tissue, shedding light on the body’s response to COVID-19.
While it may resemble an artistic beach scene, this image actually depicts the intricate structures of the small intestine, a crucial organ in the digestive process.
Newly described trilobite genera and species alter one morphological character to overcome challenges and modify another character to fulfill the original function, presenting a unique example of functional change in an animal.
Silurian trilobites Waukesha Aspis Atonaefrom the Silurian Waukesha biota of Wisconsin, USA. Image credit: Kenneth Gass, specimen is University of Wisconsin Geology Museum.
It is the only trilobite found in abundance in this biota and is primarily known for its diversity and exceptional state of conservation. arthropod and insect-like animals.
The family that includes this trilobite usually has a pair of spines (sexual spines), one on each side (left and right) of the head shield (head).
There is also a tail (pygidium) that usually reaches a point on the back and is usually extended to form the medial vertebrae (caudal vertebrae). This spine is very long and probably helps turn the animal over if necessary.
In contrast, Pygidium Waukesha Spis It lacks a caudal spine and has a depression (bay) in its place, which is highly unusual for Silurian members of this family.
Therefore, this depression does not serve to turn the animal over, but may have enhanced breathing while the animal was in the registration position by maintaining an opening for water to flow into the gills of the trilobite.
What is even more distinctive is that the genus spines of this species are extremely long, reaching up to the pygidium. These may have worked well to turn the animal over.
Other features Waukesha Aspis Atonae Of note is the significant clustering of individuals, with some cases containing up to 49 partial or complete exoskeletons, likely due to physiological tolerance in the habitat and in the reserve. This may be due to classification and storage in storage locations. gastrointestinal (intestinal) tract occurring only in a few other trilobite species.
“This trilobite is important because it allows us to learn more about the functional morphology of the family (Dharmaceae), typically a conservative group,” Dr. Randolph said.
_____
E. Randolph and K. Gass. 2024. Waukesha Aspis Atonae n. generation. n. sp.: A specialized Dharmaniidae (trilobite) from the Terikians of southeastern Wisconsin. paleontology journalp. 1-9; doi: 10.1017/jpa.2024.32
Gender plays a significant role in determining where fat is stored in the body. Men tend to store fat around their abdomen, while women tend to store fat in their thighs, buttocks, and hips.
“From a childbirth and childcare perspective, pregnancy and subsequent breastfeeding consume energy, so storing energy in these areas is very helpful,” explains Dr. Adam Collins, Associate Professor of Nutrition at the University of Surrey. Hormonal differences also play a role in fat storage.
Estrogen, a female hormone, is believed to play a key role in determining body fat distribution, particularly in women.
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Premenopausal women with higher estrogen levels are less likely to store fat in the abdomen and near vital organs. This may offer some protection from conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes. However, men are more susceptible to developing these conditions earlier in life.
After menopause, women experience a decline in estrogen levels, leading to a shift towards the typical male fat distribution pattern.
Genetics also play a role in determining fat distribution, particularly in women. Studies have shown that genetic influences on fat distribution are stronger in women compared to men.
Stress and cortisol levels may also impact fat storage, with some studies suggesting a link between elevated cortisol levels and abdominal fat. However, the exact mechanisms involved are not fully understood.
Recent research indicates that poor quality sleep may affect body fat composition, with lower quality sleep potentially leading to increased abdominal fat accumulation. However, more research is needed to draw definitive conclusions.
The type of fat present in the body also plays a crucial role in determining overall health. Subcutaneous fat lies just under the skin and provides a store of energy, while visceral fat accumulates deep in the abdomen and around vital organs, posing health risks.
Lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise, can influence body fat levels and distribution. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can help in controlling overall fat levels and reducing the risk of metabolic problems.
What types of fat are present in my body?
Lifestyle factors such as exercise and diet can influence body fat levels. – Photo credit: Getty Images
There are two main types of body fat: subcutaneous fat, which lies just under the skin, and visceral fat, which accumulates deep in the abdomen and around organs. Excess body fat is more likely to be stored as visceral fat.
Reducing overall fat levels through lifestyle changes like diet and exercise can help in controlling deep visceral fat levels and reducing the risk of metabolic problems.
About our experts
Dr. Adam Collins is an Associate Professor of Nutrition at the University of Surrey with over 20 years of experience as a qualified dietitian. His work has been published in various journals.
fredric calpe is a Professor of Metabolic Medicine at the University of Oxford, with publications in reputable journals.
Weight-loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy have been under discussion for some time, but new research suggests there may be better alternatives. Enter Amicretin, a novel weight-loss treatment available in pill form rather than injection.
In the initial human trials of this new weight loss medication, the developer Novo Nordisk A/S (the company behind Ozempic) saw promising results: participants taking Amicretin lost an average of 13.1 percent of their body weight over a 12-week period.
So, how does this new weight loss pill function? Amicretin is a dual-acting drug that emulates the effects of two hormones crucial in weight loss: amylin and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which help curb hunger and regulate appetite.
Published in the journal Diabetology, the study compared average weight loss in three groups with BMIs between 25 and 39.9 who did not have diabetes.
By the end of the 12-week study, subjects taking two 50 mg tablets of Amicretin lost 13.1% of their body weight, compared to 10.4% in those taking one 50 mg tablet. In contrast, the placebo group only lost an average of 1.1% of their body weight throughout the study.
Compared to other weight loss drugs, a recent study in JAMA Internal Medicine found that patients taking another weight-loss drug, Maunjaro, lost 5.9% body fat in 3 months, while those on Ozempic saw a decrease of 3.6%.
“The difference from injectable treatments is significant,” states obesity expert Christopher Clemmensen. “The dual mode of action offers promise, making Amicretin a valuable advancement for Novo Nordisk.”
While weight-loss drugs show promise in combating obesity worldwide, further confirmation awaits larger trials on individuals with chronic conditions. Professor Navid Sattar emphasizes the importance of developing safe and accessible medications for the millions suffering from obesity.
Excitement surrounds this early-stage study of a novel oral weight-loss medication combination due to its rapid effects on body weight.
About our experts
Associate Professor Christopher Clemmensen leads the Clemmensen Group at the University of Copenhagen, studying biological weight regulation and developing obesity treatment strategies. His research appears in respected publications such as Natural Metabolism and Molecular Metabolism.
circleIf you work security, stopping thieves can be an uphill battle. Most would-be thieves know that they have the same legal powers as security guards, so it can be hard to know who can use “appropriate force” when a teenager is trying to cut your bike lock right in front of you.
My shift coworker and I recently witnessed a heroin addict walking through the parking lot, repeatedly typing a shopping list into her phone of shampoo, school uniforms, and other low-quality items. She was part of a growing number of heroin addicts. Steal for othersIt focuses on things that people need but don’t want to pay for.
Shoplifting by telephone (aka “deliverobbing”) seems like a natural thing to happen when you consider the overall number of reported shoplifting cases. Store theft increased 37%But nobody wants to be caught in the act, and while the UK lacks police patrols to catch shoplifters, we make up for it in another area: cameras.
The UK is one of the most surveilled countries in the Western world. 13.21 cameras per 1,000 people That may seem Orwellian until you compare it with the estimated percentage for Chinese cities: 439.07.
It’s crazy to think that one of those cameras is now me. As a security guard who wears a body-worn camera (BWC) on his protective vest, I’m part of a growing demographic. This year alone, Pret a Manger staff members,BP and Greggs They are the latest employees to be issued BWCs to protect against misuse and theft.
Essex County Council Librarian Apparently “please be quiet” signs are no longer of any use: Rochdale crossing officers start recording the lollipop lady immediately after she crosses the road. Beaten Trying to stop traffic.
There’s a part of me that’s still in awe of this technology: when I was a kid in London in the ’80s, the only way to get on a screen was to walk past Rumbelows, an electronics store that happened to be promoting camcorders.
When I started working in security, I watched surveillance hardware evolve from bulky CCTV monitors like furniture to slim smart screens. Perhaps if frontline workers like me were issued BWCs, the conviction rate for shoplifting cases would be 100% today. 14% – Grow.
Recorded footage undoubtedly helped accelerate convictions after this summer’s riots, as far-right looters were quickly charged and convicted for stealing bath bombs (among other violent crimes) and begged for sympathy in court.
Some reports suggest the recent increase in shoplifting is due to gangs, not prices. account They were the “exploited middle class” who steal in the name of revenge against multinational corporations, then boast about the “big smile” they would give to security guards like me when we came out of the stores with our stolen goods.
I haven’t encountered any middle-class robbers yet, but it’s probably just a matter of time. Like many facilities that require security guards, my workplace is privately owned, but the doors are wide open. The premises are used as a public thoroughfare, and frontline workers like me can encounter everyone from users of the brain-damaging synthetic cannabinoid Spice to violent drunks and even mentally ill dropouts.
The recent surge in shoplifting is Attack on store clerk Given the abuse and attacks against frontline NHS staff, it is understandable why ambulance staff are issued with BWCs. 3,500 attacks In one year. This is despite the maximum prison sentence for attacking emergency workers being doubled in a 2020 consultation.
As a uniformed intermediary, I often have to call 999, and my boss has made it very clear to me when to press the record button. I can only press record following a “dynamic risk assessment”, but that can be difficult to implement during sudden outbursts of violence.
When my boss explained to me how BWCs worked — that they would always record but the footage would be dumped unless the “capture” tab was pressed — I became nervous: I feared that coworkers who forgot to press “stop” after a confrontation would furtively scroll through their phones or archive something inappropriate, like a nasty comment about their team leader.
Knowing when to press the button isn’t the only thing I fear about BWCs. My starting pay for my job is £11.44 an hour, the current minimum wage. The retail price of the camera I’m wearing is £534. I don’t even want to think about what would happen if I broke it. Sometimes I feel like the uniform is worth more than I am.
One group that doesn’t seem to care much about prices or digital overexposure are teenagers: the gangs we encounter are more interested in smashing windows and tearing open manhole covers.
If we approach them and say we are being recorded, they will film us with their cell phones and broadcast it to their followers, or they will threaten to stab us.
Perhaps only once the current backlog in the courts is cleared will the wider impact of BWCs be seen. Another London memory of the last century is the installation of CCTV in football grounds. Millwall’s 96-strong camera system has been used to track down Bushwhacker hooligan hangouts. “A well managed venue.”
If they can do it at the Den, they can do it downtown, and I don’t mind being the referee in the meantime, which makes sense considering I already wear black for work.
In the beauty industry, treatments to combat bloating and cellulite are in high demand. Celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Kim Kardashian, and Sean “Diddy” Combs are now turning to lymphatic drainage massage for help with these issues.
This type of massage targets the lymphatic system, which sets it apart from other massage therapies like Swedish, sports, deep tissue, and aromatherapy. Each type of massage offers different benefits, so choosing the right one depends on the results you want to achieve.
Understanding the Lymphatic System
The lymphatic system is a crucial part of the body’s immune system, consisting of organs like the spleen, tonsils, bone marrow, and thymus. It works alongside the circulatory system by filtering out waste products and abnormal cells through lymph nodes. The lymph fluid helps maintain fluid balance, absorb fat, and defend against infections.
Who Benefits from Lymphatic Drainage Massage?
People with conditions like lymphedema, fibromyalgia, sports injuries, deep vein thrombosis, and cancer-related lymphatic buildup can benefit from lymphatic drainage massage. Athletes also find it useful for recovery and prevention, along with proper hydration, diet, exercise, and sleep.
Do You Need Lymphatic Drainage Massage?
Signs of a malfunctioning lymphatic system include swelling in knees, ankles, and hands, as well as swollen lymph nodes when sick. After cancer treatment, lymphatic drainage massage can help prevent infections and support healing.
Can Lymphatic Drainage Help with Weight Loss?
Lymphatic drainage massage can aid in weight loss by improving circulation, reducing swelling, and eliminating toxins. While it may improve the appearance of cellulite, it cannot completely remove it. Weight loss post-massage is often due to losing excess fluids.
What to Expect from Lymphatic Drainage Massage
There are two types of lymphatic drainage massage: manual and simple, both overseen by qualified practitioners. The techniques involve gentle pressure to clear and absorb toxins, without causing pain or skin irritation.
If you’ve ever made it a goal to change your appearance, you’re not alone. Around 43% of UK adults have the goal of losing weightFor many, these goals can extend to more extreme methods of altering their appearance, such as cosmetic or plastic surgery.
But when does this common and widespread desire for self-improvement and betterment become something more sinister? 3 percent of the general populationThis can lead to a constant desire to modify or change one’s physical appearance, a condition known as body dysmorphic disorder (BDD).
People with BDD believe that they have significant physical flaws or defects that, to other people, may be minor or even non-existent.
Rebecca*, a 36-year-old woman, strongly believes she looks like she has a “moon face” because she can’t help but look in the mirror at the acne scars that cover her skin.
Or Tyson*, the 17-year-old who spends hours every day in the gym trying to build muscle mass because he feels he looks like a “toothpick.”
Tyson and Rebecca have been told time and time again by family, friends, and medical professionals that what they see is different from what others see, but they don’t believe it. Seeing is believing, right? But what if your eyes can deceive you?
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Long Attachment
BDD isn’t a new condition: It was first described by Italian psychiatrist Enrico Morselli in 1891, long before we became obsessed with our TikTok feeds.
He described people with “body dysmorphic disorder” (the former name for BDD) as people who are “suddenly overcome by the fear that their body may be deformed in the midst of everyday life, while talking, while reading, while sitting at a table – in fact anywhere and at any time throughout the day.”
BDD is thought to be caused by a complex interplay of biopsychosocial factors, including genetic factors, differences in brain structure and function, and a history of adverse childhood experiences such as bullying, abuse or neglect, which can lead individuals to feel ashamed about themselves and their bodies.
This tendency is often manifested or exacerbated by societal pressures around appearance — in fact, research supports the idea that attractive people often enjoy social advantages, such as being perceived as more trustworthy, healthy, confident, and intelligent.
This increases your chances of finding love, getting a job, or even earning a higher salary.
This often has a negative impact on the minds of people with BDD, making them feel like they have less chance of succeeding in life.While we cannot ignore that these benefits of beauty exist in our society, the pursuit of beauty at all costs can be harmful to both our physical and mental health.
read more:
Unrealistic perfection
Although BDD existed before the development of social media, social media has certainly played a role in increasing the prevalence and severity of BDD.
The emphasis on sharing the “perfect” selfie, the use of filters, the various ways to augment or enhance an image, and powerful algorithms that ensure you (or your disability) are served up with the content that interests you most are the perfect combination to increase the focus on appearance.
Heavy social media use and photo editing have been linked to an increased risk of developing BDD, comparing appearances, and interest in undergoing surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures.
This relationship arises in a variety of ways. First, our perception of attractiveness and beauty is often influenced by our “visual diet.” After an extended period of consuming curated content showcasing the best angles, lighting, makeup and outfit choices, and artificial enhancements through the addition of filters, our perception of beauty can start to become biased towards highly idealized and edited images.
As a result, viewers may feel pressured to fit into this newly formed ideal of beauty and may attempt to conform by applying filters to themselves or seeking cosmetic procedures to better meet this standard.
Unfortunately, the positive effect a filter has on your self-image only lasts while it’s applied; once the filter is removed or you see yourself in the mirror in the real world, you may find yourself feeling unattractive or unacceptable.
An estimated 3 percent of people suffer from body dysmorphic disorder. – Photo credit: Getty
There is also an increased pressure to build a “personal brand” online, which can extend beyond just posting the “perfect” photos to achieving the most beautiful feed, the right captions, hashtags and themes. This can lead to a lack of authenticity and cause a widening disconnect between your “online self” and your “real self.”
Some people say their use of social media has increased social anxiety in their daily lives. They fear they will unintentionally “catfish” others who have become accustomed to looking a certain way in the online world. Thus, a personal brand or polished online persona can lead to feelings of embarrassment and shame about their true appearance and personality.
Once BDD has developed, the disorder is often maintained by harmful patterns of thinking and behavior.
For example, engaging in excessive behavior to check, camouflage, or change one’s appearance, including prolonged observation of oneself in the mirror or taking photographs from different angles, hiding oneself with loose clothing, hats, scarves, or glasses, beauty treatments, new hairstyles, or cosmetic procedures.
Many of these are common everyday behaviors that people undertake for self-expression and self-improvement. However, when taken to an extreme, these behaviors can lead to an excessive focus on appearance.
One study compared the mirror-gazing patterns of people with and without BDD and found that even healthy people who stared at themselves in the mirror for more than 10 minutes experienced heightened awareness of their “flaws” and increased levels of distress.
People with BDD experienced this intense distress even after only looking at themselves briefly, for around 25 seconds. These findings support the idea that people with BDD have different patterns of visual processing when looking at faces, often focusing on small details and individual features rather than the overall picture.
Similarly, if someone without BDD looks at themselves long enough, they too will begin to see themselves in parts rather than as a whole, which is one reason why the “Zoom effect” and the proliferation of video calls during the COVID-19 pandemic has increased self-image distress for many people.
read more:
Extreme Measures
People with BDD seek out beauty and cosmetic treatments at a much higher rate than the general population to help them feel better about themselves.
These high rates make sense: For Rebecca, who is concerned about the scars on her face, dermatological treatments like chemical peels and anti-wrinkle injections seem like the obvious solution.
Unfortunately, while most people who seek cosmetic surgery are satisfied with the results, studies have shown that this is not the case for people with BDD. In up to 91 percent of casesBecause your symptoms don’t change, you continue to focus on the areas that were treated and continue to work on ways to hide, check up, or cover up your “flaws.”
After undergoing cosmetic surgery, your concerns may change. People who were concerned about having a “hooked” nose before surgery may develop new concerns after rhinoplasty (nose surgery) about their nose appearing larger as a result of the surgery and about others criticizing them for having the surgery.
In other cases, BDD symptoms may actually worsen after treatment, making someone who is already self-conscious and vulnerable even more so.
Nearly three in ten adult men over the age of 18 have experienced insecurity about their body image.
It is an ethical and professional obligation for cosmetic surgeons to identify BDD in their patients before performing procedures, as patients with BDD may sue, complain, or demand compensation for procedures that do not meet their expectations.
It may be disheartening to learn that cosmetic surgery may not be the answer to your intense and painful obsession with appearance, but the good news is that effective, evidence-based treatments exist.
The National Institute for Health and Technology Assessment First-line treatment for BDD should include cognitive behavioral therapy with exposure and response prevention (CBT-ERP) and the addition of psychiatric medication for moderate to severe cases.
CBT for BDD involves identifying unhelpful stereotypes and expectations you have about yourself and your appearance (such as “I have to always be well-dressed when I leave the house” or “No one will love me with a nose this size”) and learning new ways to move away from these thoughts or develop more flexible, helpful thought processes (such as “I want to find a partner who is attracted to my values, interests, and passions, not the look of my nose”)
Adding ERP involves gradually exposing the patient to situations, environments, or people that they would normally avoid, while at the same time trying not to engage in the compulsive behavior.
For example, Rebecca might work on gradually eliminating cosmetics from her daily routine so she can go out without wearing heavy makeup to hide her skin, while Tyson might work on reducing his training schedule or going to the beach with his friends without having to cover up with a t-shirt.
These exposure exercises are designed to help individuals learn that what they fear most (being judged or ridiculed for their appearance) may not happen. Through exposure rather than avoidance, they can begin to live more productive, fulfilling, and joyful lives.
If you’re reading this and you feel like you’re worrying a little too much about the way you look, here are some things you can try…
How to Worry Less About Your Appearance
Mirror hygiene
Set a limit on the amount of time you spend looking at yourself. Unless you’re doing it for a specific purpose like putting on makeup or shaving, staring at yourself for more than 10 minutes can cause stress. Don’t avoid mirrors, but only look at them when necessary.
Engage in hobbies that have nothing to do with appearance
BDD is often associated with an excessive focus on appearance at the expense of other activities. Spending time with friends and family and doing the activities you love can boost your self-esteem and help you realize that your strengths go beyond just your appearance.
Social Media Detox
Look at your social media and notice how much of the content you’re consuming is highly edited images or content promoting fitness, beauty or cosmetic procedures. Unfollow or hide any content that makes you feel self-conscious, or set limits on the time and amount of time you spend on social media.
Stop looking for reassurance
Try not to talk to others about your appearance. Asking for feedback on your appearance can make you feel bad, whether the answer is positive or negative. Focus the conversation on more interesting topics.
Rather than chasing the perfect body, maybe it’s time to discover a broader sense of self-worth that can withstand the inevitable challenges of aging and growing up that we all experience, whether we like it or not.
*Names and descriptions do not reflect actual clients.
If you have ever set a goal to change your appearance, know that you are not alone. Approximately 43% of UK adults aim to lose weight. For some, this goal may lead to more extreme methods such as cosmetic or plastic surgery.
However, when does this desire for self-improvement become problematic? About 3% of the general population may develop a condition known as body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), where individuals have a constant urge to alter their physical appearance.
Individuals with BDD perceive significant flaws or defects in their appearance that may not be as noticeable to others. For example, Rebecca, a 36-year-old woman, believes she has a “moon face” due to acne scars, while Tyson, a 17-year-old, works out excessively because he feels too skinny. Despite reassurances from others, they continue to struggle with their self-perception.
BDD is not a new phenomenon and has been recognized since 1891. Factors such as genetics, brain function, and adverse childhood experiences can contribute to the development of BDD. Society’s focus on appearance can exacerbate this condition, as attractive individuals often receive social advantages.
Social media has also played a role in heightening BDD prevalence, with filters, editing tools, and curated content leading to unrealistic beauty standards. Excessive social media use has been linked to increased BDD symptoms and a desire for cosmetic procedures.
People with BDD often engage in extreme behaviors to alter their appearance, such as mirror gazing, excessive grooming, or seeking cosmetic treatments. However, studies have shown that cosmetic surgery may not provide lasting relief for individuals with BDD, and their symptoms may worsen post-surgery.
Cognitive behavioral therapy with exposure and response prevention (CBT-ERP) is a recommended treatment for BDD, offering relief for up to 70% of individuals. It is essential for cosmetic surgeons to identify BDD in patients before performing procedures to prevent further distress.
Instead of fixating on appearance, individuals can focus on engaging in hobbies, limiting mirror time, and taking breaks from social media to improve self-esteem. Developing a broader sense of self-worth beyond physical appearance is key to overcoming BDD.
*Names and descriptions do not reflect actual clients.
There is a growing trend in the beauty industry to seek treatments for bloating and cellulite, with lymphatic drainage massage becoming increasingly popular among A-list celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Kim Kardashian, and Sean “Diddy” Combs.
These celebrities have touted the fast health benefits and weight loss advantages of this treatment, but what exactly does lymphatic drainage massage do?
Lymphatic drainage massage is unique as it targets the lymphatic system, setting it apart from other massage therapies such as Swedish, sports, deep tissue, and aromatherapy. Each type of massage offers different benefits, so your choice depends on your desired results.
The lymphatic system is a crucial part of the body’s immune system, consisting of tissues, organs like the spleen and bone marrow, and a network of interconnected blood vessels and lymph nodes. These components work together to filter out waste and maintain fluid balance, producing white blood cells to fight infections.
People opt for lymphatic drainage massage to combat cellulite as the treatment aids the absorption of fat and excess fluids back into the bloodstream.
Lymphatic drainage massage can benefit those dealing with lymphedema, fibromyalgia, sports injuries, deep vein thrombosis, and lymphatic buildup post-cancer treatment. While athletes benefit from preventative and restorative sports massages, lymphatic drainage massage can aid recovery after injury or surgery.
If your lymphatic system is not functioning optimally, you may experience swelling and puffiness in various parts of the body. Lymphatic drainage massage can help alleviate these symptoms by improving circulation, reducing swelling, and eliminating toxins.
While lymphatic drainage massage may improve the appearance of cellulite, it cannot completely remove it. The treatment may lead to temporary weight loss due to the elimination of excess fluids.
During a lymphatic drainage massage, the therapist employs gentle pressure techniques that do not cause discomfort or skin redness. The massage focuses on clearing and absorbing, enhancing skin health.
Studying corpses can provide valuable insights. Observing the decomposition process can enhance our knowledge of the nuances involved, aid in locating and identifying the deceased more accurately, and help determine the time of death.
Following death, the body undergoes a breakdown into simpler organic matter through biological and chemical processes. The duration of this process varies from weeks to years depending on several factors.
Chemical reactions in decomposition accelerate with rising temperatures. Conversely, bodies can remain relatively “fresh” for longer in cold conditions or during winter. Certain factors, like burial or placing the body in a coffin, can slow down decomposition. Insecticides near bodies may not deter insects but can delay their arrival, thus slowing decomposition indefinitely.
A study from Australia’s first ‘body farm’ revealed surprising movement in corpses during decay. Limbs, including arms, were seen to change positions even in advanced decomposition stages. Researchers suggest this movement is linked to the decomposition process as the body mummifies and ligaments dry out.
Stage 1: Rigor begins
The “fresh” phase lasts from days to a week. Pallor after death, where the body turns blue due to poor circulation, is the first visible change. Rigor mortis sets in approximately 2 to 6 hours after death, stiffening the body, then dissipates around 36 hours later.
If left unattended, insects arrive shortly after death, typically within 10 minutes.
Stage 2: Bloating
When gut bacteria multiply due to lack of control, they produce gas that causes bloating. In warm climates, bloating can occur within 2-3 days.
Stage 3: Skin falls off
Internal pressure causes fluid to push between skin layers, leading to skin sloughing off.
Stage 4: Marbling
Absence of oxygen leads hemoglobin to bind with sulfur, resulting in arteries and veins filled with a greenish-black substance – known as “marbling.”
Stage 5: Evacuation of liquefied organs
Increased pressure forces fluids and liquefied organs out of available openings, potentially causing eyeballs to protrude and even body explosions.
Stage 6: Insects multiply.
Chemicals released by the body attract flies, which lay eggs in and around openings, leading to maggot infestation feeding on flesh and organs.
Stage 7: Scavenger arrives
Other insects, beetles, birds, and carrion eaters are attracted to the body for consumption.
Stage 8: Skeletonization
Finally, bones undergo ossification with the complete loss of soft tissue. Bone bleaching and flaking typically begin about 9 months after exposure, with further separation over months and years due to environmental factors.
From T-shirts with changing messages to carpets that can detect your position, the future of smart textiles seems to come straight out of a sci-fi novel.
Researchers now claim they have created a smart fiber that can achieve just that, without the need for a battery pack.
A team of Chinese researchers have developed textile-based electronics that utilize the human body as part of a circuit to harness electromagnetic energy from the environment.
This innovation could pave the way for a “body-bound” fiber electronics technology that functions without electronic chips or batteries and could be applied in various scenarios.
Co-author Chengyi Hou from Donghua University in Shanghai explained, “When electromagnetic energy passes through a fiber, it is converted into different forms of energy, including visible light or radio waves. Therefore, the fiber not only emits light but also produces an electrical signal when in contact with the human body.”
Hou highlighted that these radio signals are programmable by manipulating different aspects of the system, such as the fiber’s contact area with the body and its diameter.
The team stated that this method resolves a major challenge in integrating electronic systems into textiles, which is the necessity of rigid components.
Hou mentioned, “We have successfully achieved mass production of this new type of fiber electronics, which is as thin and soft as traditional fibers. The next step is to implement it.”
The team has created prototypes like a wearable cloth display with a cloth keyboard, intended for individuals with hearing impairments to aid in communication, as well as textile controllers for gaming.
Additionally, they developed a wireless tactile carpet that illuminates underfoot, providing emergency lighting at night and wirelessly transmitting signals to control household devices like lights.
Researchers have created a carpet that can glow underfoot and transmit signals that can be used to control switches in appliances such as lights. Photo: Yang Weifeng
Read more about the study here. The team assures that the fiber is constructed from three layers of inexpensive materials, making it durable, washable, and sweat-resistant.
An accompanying article suggests that this technology can also be utilized in robots, robotic prosthetics, and capturing haptic information to enhance human interactions and object recognition.
Dr. Luigi Occhipinti, a research director at the University of Cambridge specializing in smart electronics, biosystems, and AI, acknowledged the potential of this approach.
He stated, “By being constantly surrounded by various electromagnetic fields, we are developing innovative electronic textiles with skin sensors and unconventional electronics, powered uniquely through energy harvesting. This has the potential to unlock a new realm of self-powered wearable electronics for continuous health monitoring.”
In The Truth of Areke, the last remaining free city in the Eternal Desert has been under siege for centuries.
Shutterstock / Liu Zishan
This month we have new works by several big name authors. Cixin Liu and Ann Leckie both have easy-to-read collections of short texts. It also depicts a dystopian future by award-winning Thea Obret, and a world where woolly mammoths have been brought back from the world. Douglas Preston's bestseller.He also loves the sound of Scott Alexander Howard's debut song another valleya town where past and future versions exist in the following valleys, and the space adventures of Sofia Samatar. Practice, horizon, and chain. There are so many things I want to read and not enough time…
This is a collection of short stories by science fiction author Liu, who is currently on the rise thanks to a new Netflix film. three body problem, from essays and interviews to short stories. I love this excerpt from an essay about science fiction fans. In it he calls us “mysterious aliens in the crowd.” They “jump like fleas from the future to the past and back again, floating like gas clouds between nebulae. In an instant we can reach the edge of the universe or tunnel into quarks.” or swim inside the core of a star.''Aren't we lucky to have a world like this on our shelves?
Leckie is a must-read author for me, and this is the first complete collection of her short stories, ranging from science fiction to fantasy. On the sci-fi side, we'll be able to dip in again. imperial latch And we're also promised to “learn the secrets of the mysterious Lake of Souls” in a brand new novel.
In the disastrous future, an 11-year-old girl arrives in Morningside with her mother. Once a luxury high-rise, Morningside is now another crumbling part of Island City, half submerged under water. Obrecht won the Orange Prize for Fiction in 2011 for her debut novel. tiger's wife.
Samatar won all kinds of awards for his first novel. Stranger in Olondria. Her latest work depicts the story of a boy who grew up working on a mining ship in the stars, but whose life changes when he is given the opportunity to receive an education at the ship's university. Sounds interesting.
A boy grows up working on a mining ship surrounded by starry skies in The Practice, Horizon, and The Chain.
Getty Images
It's set in a Rocky Mountain valley, where guests at the luxury resort can see woolly mammoths, giant ground sloths and Irish moose brought back from extinction through genetic engineering. But then a series of murders begins, and the two investigators must find out what's really going on.this is what it looks like Jurassic Park-It looks like a lot of fun. And if you want more mammoth-related reading, try my colleague Michael Le Page's excellent explanation of why they won't be coming back anytime soon.
The award-winning author we have to talk about kevin Reflecting her thoughts on the so-called “culture wars” in her fiction, she imagines a world where the “spiritual equality movement” is at its peak, and “the worst thing you can do is call someone 'stupid'.” There is.
This speculative novel alternates endlessly through the wilderness, with the same town to the east 20 years ahead of its time, and the same town to the west 20 years behind. Border crossings are only allowed on “memorial tours,'' which allow people to see the dead in towns where they are still alive. Odile, 16, will take a seat on the Conseil Commission, which can decide who can travel across borders. I love this sound.
Many may wonder if Marvel's superhero stories are really science fiction, but I'm leaning toward the multiverse aspect of this here and including it because it seems kind of interesting. This is the first installment in a new series that reimagines the origins of some of our biggest heroes. Here, Thor died defending Earth from Loki's pranks, and the Norse trickster god, exiled to our planet, is now dealing with the consequences.
the second book of eternal desert The series is set 500 years in the future. Ajungo's lie, which follows a junior peacekeeping force in the last remaining free city in the Eternal Desert, which has been under siege for centuries. It was actually released in March, but I missed it then, and science fiction contributor Sally Addy introduced it as a title to watch this year, so I'm introducing it now.
abnormality Written by Andrei Nikolaidis, translated by Will Firth
On New Year's Eve, the last year of humanity, various stories unfold, from a high-ranking minister with blood on his hands to a nurse with a secret. Later, in a cabin in the Alps, a musicologist and his daughter, the last people left on Earth, try to make sense of this catastrophe.according to independent personNicolaidis makes “Samuel Beckett look aggressively cheerful,'' and I admit that I sometimes want to see stories like that.
In this techno-thriller, Mal is a free AI, unconcerned with the conflicts going on between humans, but is trapped inside the body of a cyborg mercenary and is responsible for keeping the girl she died protecting. It will be.
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