Changes in sexual behavior over recent decades have resulted in more people having multiple serial or concurrent sexual relationships during young adulthood. A new longitudinal study investigates how these shifting trends affect mental health. Key Facts: Researchers followed a cohort of nearly 1,000 New Zealanders from birth to age 32, tracking their sexual behavior and …
Genetically modified (GM) crops have become a major topic of debate in agriculture and food systems. They involve altering an organism’s DNA to introduce new traits not originally present. While proponents argue GM crops can help feed the world and benefit the environment, critics have raised concerns about potential ecological and health risks. Key Facts …
Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) remain controversial despite decades of use. Key facts: GMOs were first commercialized in the 1980s and now comprise over 90% of corn and soybean crops in the US. Potential risks include food safety issues and environmental impacts from gene transfer to wild plants. However, no direct hazards have been reported over …
Coffee is one of the most popular beverages globally, with billions of cups consumed every day. However, coffee beans are prone to fungal infections that can produce harmful toxins known as mycotoxins. Key findings: Ochratoxin A (OTA) and aflatoxins were detected in commercial green, roasted, and instant coffee samples from Qatar. Higher mycotoxin levels were …
Education has long been thought to improve cognitive abilities like intelligence. But does simply spending more years in school actually make people smarter? A new meta-analysis of quasi-experimental studies provides compelling evidence that education significantly increases intelligence test scores, by as much as 1-5 IQ points for each additional year of education. Key Facts: Education …
Polygamy, the practice of having multiple spouses, has grown in public awareness and acceptance over the past 20 years. However, polygamous families face unique household challenges, frequently stemming from jealousy and competition between co-wives over a shared husband’s affections and resources. Key Facts: Polygamy is most common in parts of Africa, the Middle East, and …
Tattoos have become increasingly mainstream in recent decades, with estimates suggesting up to 40% of adults in the US now have at least one tattoo. However, tattoos have historically been associated with risky behaviors and negative health outcomes. New research examines whether these associations still hold true as tattoos gain broader cultural acceptance. Key facts: …
Fluoride has revolutionized dentistry with its ability to prevent tooth decay, but concerns remain about potential adverse health effects from over-exposure. Key Facts: Fluoride was discovered in 1901 to cause brown stains on teeth, later found to make teeth resistant to decay Grand Rapids, Michigan became the first city to fluoridate drinking water in 1945, …
Microplastics, the tiny plastic particles polluting our environment, are increasingly being linked to potential adverse health effects in humans. Here’s what you need to know about this emerging public health issue. Key Facts: Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 5 mm that are widespread pollutants in the environment. They come from the breakdown of larger …
Obesity can lead to impaired learning, memory and cognitive decline, but the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. A new mouse study reveals how obesity disrupts key signaling pathways in the brain, and shows the potential of two diabetes drugs, semaglutide and empagliflozin, to counteract these effects. Key Findings: Obesity impaired spatial learning and memory …
