Trending Science

Listen as Radio

WHO Issues New Guidelines on Salt Intake

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued new guidelines urging a reduction in sodium intake, highlighting that 1.9 million deaths annually are linked to high sodium consumption. Despite ongoing public health campaigns, global average sodium intake remains at 4.3 grams per day, more than double the recommended limit of 2 grams. To combat this, the WHO recommends switching to lower-sodium salt substitutes, such as potassium-enriched salt, which can help maintain flavor while reducing sodium levels. However, individuals with kidney issues should consult a doctor before making this switch due to potential risks of excessive potassium. The WHO's guidelines are the first of their kind globally, aiming to encourage healthier dietary practices, including avoiding processed foods, using less salt in cooking, and opting for low-sodium products. These measures are part of a broader strategy to monitor and reduce sodium consumption across member states. sources

Published:
Mar 13 2025, 2 pm

Ancient Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum: Malta's Underground Marvel

The Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, a remarkable underground burial complex in Malta, spans 500 square meters and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its "Outstanding Universal Value" since 1980. Discovered accidentally in 1902 when a stone mason breached its roof, much of the upper level was lost to construction, but subsequent excavations revealed a three-level labyrinth of chambers and corridors carved from globigerina limestone. Notably, the site features impressive craftsmanship and may have been designed to enhance acoustic properties, potentially making it one of the earliest structures created with music in mind. Among the artifacts unearthed are the iconic "Sleeping Lady" figurine and the skeletal remains of approximately 7,000 individuals, indicating its use as a cemetery from around 4000 BCE to 2500 BCE. Initially thought to serve as a sanctuary, the Hypogeum reflects Malta's rich prehistoric heritage and its strategic Mediterranean location. sources

Published:
Mar 13 2025, 5 am

Children with COVID-19 Show Abnormal Brain Scans in Studies

A recent study has revealed that COVID-19 can cause significant neurological damage in children, challenging the initial perception that they are at lower risk for severe illness. Researchers reviewed nearly 10,000 articles, narrowing it down to 96 studies that included brain scan data from 327 pediatric patients across various countries. The findings indicated that 43.74% of children with neurological symptoms exhibited abnormal neuroimaging results, including conditions like encephalitis, swelling, and vascular abnormalities. While children often recover more quickly from COVID-19, they remain vulnerable to complications and long COVID. The study emphasizes the need for heightened awareness of neurological issues in pediatric COVID-19 cases and calls for further research to understand the long-term effects of the virus. Despite COVID-19 no longer being classified as an emergency, the investigation highlights the ongoing necessity for comprehensive studies to grasp the full impact of the virus. The study is published in *Scientific Reports*. sources

Published:
Mar 13 2025, 12 am

99% Effective Male Oral Contraceptive Prevents Pregnancy in Mice

A promising development in male contraception has emerged from researchers at the University of Minnesota, who presented their findings at the American Chemical Society's spring meeting. They have identified a non-hormonal compound, YCT529, that effectively prevents pregnancy in male mice with a remarkable 99% success rate and no observable side effects. This compound works by specifically targeting the retinoic acid receptor alpha (RAR-α), crucial for sperm formation, and is noted for its reversibility, allowing mice to regain fertility within weeks after treatment cessation. While the team aims to initiate human clinical trials by the end of 2022, they are also exploring additional compounds to ensure efficacy in humans. The research highlights a growing interest in male contraceptive options, addressing a long-standing gender imbalance in contraceptive responsibility, with a 2019 poll indicating that one-third of men would consider using a male contraceptive pill. sources

Published:
Mar 13 2025, 6 am

1994 Paper Claimed to Invent Old Mathematical Rule

In a recent Reddit post, a high school student claimed to have independently discovered a mathematical method for calculating areas under curves, only to humorously assert that Isaac Newton had "copied" him. This incident highlights a common phenomenon in mathematics and science, where individuals or teams can arrive at the same conclusions independently. The student’s method, while innovative for him, echoes established techniques like the trapezoidal rule, which has been known since the 17th century. This was similarly seen in a 1994 paper by Mary M. Tai, who introduced a model for determining areas under curves but faced criticism for not acknowledging the long-established trapezoidal rule. Despite the backlash, Tai defended her work as an independent derivation, emphasizing that her intention was not to claim a groundbreaking discovery. The light-hearted exchange underscores the importance of consulting existing literature in academia to avoid unintentional rediscoveries. sources

Published:
Mar 11 2025, 6 pm

Ancient SNES Console Runs Faster with Age, Experts Confounded

Gamers who grew up in the 1990s may want to dust off their Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) as recent findings suggest that these classic consoles are running slightly faster than their original specifications. The TASBot team, known for their tool-assisted speedrunning technology, reported that after testing 143 consoles, they discovered an unusual speed increase linked to the audio processing unit (APU). This phenomenon, attributed to the ceramic resonator used in the APU, could lead to higher-pitched sounds during gameplay. While the central processing unit remains unaffected, the APU's speed appears to increase with age and temperature. Although this change is unlikely to impact speedrun records significantly, the TASBot team continues to investigate the implications of these findings, noting that further analysis is required to understand the full extent of the speed variations. sources

Published:
Mar 13 2025, 3 am

Slushy Drinks May Contain Harmful Ingredient for Kids

A recent study has raised concerns over the health risks associated with glycerol, an ingredient found in sugar-free slushies, particularly for young children. Researchers reviewed 21 cases of children who experienced glycerol intoxication syndrome after consuming these drinks, with the majority being under four years old. Symptoms, which can manifest within an hour, include reduced consciousness, hypoglycemia, and metabolic acidosis. While most children recovered quickly, the study highlights a worrying trend, with cases increasing from 2018 to 2024, potentially linked to rising parental concerns about sugar intake. Current UK and Irish guidelines recommend that children under four should avoid slushies, but researchers suggest stricter measures may be necessary, advocating for recommendations based on weight rather than age. Parents are urged to be vigilant about the ingredients in these nostalgic summer treats to prevent serious health issues. The findings are published in the journal *Archives of Disease in Childhood*. sources

Published:
Mar 13 2025, 12 am

US Funds Research on Disproven Vaccine-Autism Connection

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is set to conduct a significant study investigating the alleged link between vaccines and autism, despite extensive research debunking this myth. Vaccines have been credited with saving approximately 154 million lives over the past 50 years, with the measles vaccine being the most impactful. The skepticism surrounding vaccines largely stems from a discredited 1998 study by Andrew Wakefield, which falsely claimed a connection between the MMR vaccine and autism. This study was retracted due to ethical violations and scientific fraud. Despite numerous large-scale studies consistently finding no link between vaccines and autism, the CDC's new research initiative has been prompted by rising autism diagnoses, which experts attribute to improved diagnostic practices. Critics warn that questioning vaccine safety could have dire public health consequences, especially as measles cases rise in the US. The implications of this new research remain to be seen. sources

Published:
Mar 13 2025, 1 am

Can This Inexpensive Painkiller Prevent Cancer Spread?

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have discovered a potential mechanism by which aspirin may inhibit cancer metastasis, a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Initially investigating the immune response to metastasis, the team identified a gene, _Arhgef1_, that suppresses T-cell activity, which is crucial for targeting rogue cancer cells. They found that this gene's activation is linked to thromboxane A2 (TXA2), a protein produced by platelets that aspirin reduces. In experiments with melanoma-affected mice, those treated with aspirin showed significantly less metastasis compared to a control group. While these findings are promising, suggesting that aspirin could serve as a low-cost treatment option, further research in humans is necessary to confirm efficacy and assess potential side effects, such as stomach ulcers. The study highlights aspirin's potential role in cancer therapy, with implications for more accessible treatments globally. The research is published in *Nature*. sources

Published:
Mar 12 2025, 10 pm

Man Finds Beautiful Seashell, Unknowingly Nearing Danger

A snorkeler in Egypt's Red Sea narrowly escaped a potentially life-threatening encounter after picking up a beautiful seashell, unaware it housed a venomous cone snail. The anonymous individual shared his experience on Reddit, expressing initial excitement over the shell's beauty but later learned of the dangers associated with handling such creatures. Many users quickly identified the shell as belonging to a cone snail, particularly the textile cone, known for its potent venom that can be fatal to humans. Cone snails possess a specialized tooth that injects conotoxins, and while most species deliver mild stings, some can be deadly. With fewer than 100 recorded fatalities attributed to cone snail stings, experts advise against touching living marine creatures. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting wildlife and leaving natural habitats undisturbed for both personal safety and ecological health. sources

Published:
Mar 12 2025, 10 pm

For the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews

End of news stories. Come back in an hour!