097 - The Write Stuff, Fish Oil Debate, and Awe - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

Mind-Expanding Reads for Daily Life

This article reviews five essential psychology books that simplify complex theories into practical advice for daily life. Thinking Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman explores cognitive biases and decision-making processes. Carol Dweck’s “Growth Mindset” emphasizes the power of effort over innate ability. “Emotional Intelligence” by Daniel Goleman highlights the importance of understanding and managing emotions. Angela Duckworth’s “Grit” focuses on resilience and perseverance. Finally, “Flow” by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi delves into achieving optimal experiences. Each book, authored by experts, offers actionable insights to enhance personal and professional life. 5 applied psychology books for everyday life - Big Think.

Awe

Lori Santos covered the eight types of awe in her podcast The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos: The Power of Awe. Well worth a listen whether you are religious or not.

Gaslight, Camera, Action

Gaslighting, a manipulative tactic that makes victims question their reality, can profoundly affect mental health, leading to anxiety and depression. When confronted with gaslighting, experts recommend seven strategies to regain control and assert your truth. These include calmly stating your perspective, setting boundaries, validating your feelings, documenting events, suggesting neutral third-party mediation, using humor to defuse tension, and focusing on solutions rather than memory debates. These techniques aim to disrupt the manipulator’s control and provide clarity, helping you maintain your sense of reality and well-being. 7 Things to Say When Someone Gaslights You.

Unraveling Chronic Illness Misdiagnoses

Chronic illness symptoms are frequently dismissed as mere stress, complicating diagnosis and treatment. Amina AlTai, initially attributing her fatigue and brain fog to work-related stress, faced repeated dismissal from doctors despite worsening symptoms like hair loss and gastrointestinal issues. It wasn’t until thorough blood tests that she was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease and celiac disease, severe autoimmune conditions. This case underscores the complex interplay between stress and chronic illness, highlighting the need for careful evaluation to distinguish between stress-related symptoms and underlying medical conditions. Why Chronic Illness Symptoms are Commonly Dismissed as Just Stress - The New York Times (gift article).

Weight Loss Woes

States like West Virginia are grappling with the high costs of weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy. Despite their effectiveness, with some patients losing 15-20% of their weight, the prohibitive costs, reaching up to $1,400 a month, make them inaccessible for many. Canceling public funding programs exacerbates the disparity between those who can afford these medications and those who cannot. Critics argue that the situation mirrors past pharmaceutical crises, underscoring a broader issue of healthcare inequality in treating obesity, a condition classified as a complex disease. Some States Say They Can’t Afford Ozempic and Other Weight Loss Drugs - The New York Times (gift article).

Time for a Pill

MIT researchers have discovered that the effectiveness of medications depends significantly on the time of day they are taken due to circadian variations in liver function. Using engineered mini-livers, the study identified over 300 liver genes with circadian patterns, affecting drug metabolism and inflammation. These findings suggest that drug regimens could be optimized to enhance efficacy and reduce toxicity. For instance, Tylenol’s breakdown is more efficient at specific times, and the liver’s susceptibility to infections like malaria varies with the circadian cycle. This research opens new avenues for tailoring drug administration schedules. Drugs are more effective at certain times of day | MIT Technology Review.

The Fish Oil Debate

The article explores the ongoing debate about the efficacy of fish oil supplements for heart health. Despite early enthusiasm sparked by Inuit dietary studies, recent research reveals mixed results. Some studies suggest omega-3s reduce coronary events, but many trials show no significant cardiovascular benefits. Additionally, fish oil supplements may increase the risk of atrial fibrillation. Experts recommend obtaining omega-3s from dietary fish rather than supplements, emphasizing a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle for heart health. The article underscores the importance of relying on well-rounded dietary practices rather than supplements for optimal cardiovascular well-being. Is Fish Oil Helpful or Harmful for the Heart? - The New York Times (gift article).

Reclaim Your Work-Life Balance

In an era of remote work and constant connectivity, achieving work-life balance has become increasingly challenging. The article outlines five tech-based strategies to prevent work from encroaching on personal time. These include setting and communicating boundaries, scheduling messages during work hours, minimizing notifications, filling calendars with buffer times, and establishing emergency contact plans. By leveraging the same technology that blurs the line between work and personal life, individuals can regain control and ensure their jobs stay within the confines of a typical workday. How to get back your work-life balance with tech - The Washington Post (gift article).

AI: The Write Stuff

A recent study reveals that over 10% of scientific papers are co-authored by large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT, with fields like computer science showing even higher usage. Researchers from the University of Tübingen and Northwestern University utilized an excess-vocabulary method to identify unusual word frequencies in scientific abstracts. This method bypasses traditional detection algorithms, revealing the widespread integration of AI in academic writing. While LLMs enhance drafting efficiency, especially for non-native English speakers, their use raises concerns about biases, hallucinations, and the potential flood of low-quality publications. Academic policies on LLM usage remain inconsistent and evolving. At least 10% of research may already be co-authored by AI.

091 - Meta Heads, Embracing Solitude, and The Brain's Immunity Master Switch - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

The Brain's Immunity Master Switch

In a groundbreaking study, A body–brain circuit that regulates body inflammatory responses | Nature, researchers led by Charles Zuker at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute discovered that the brainstem plays a crucial role in controlling the immune system. This revelation challenges the long-held belief that immune regulation is solely within the immune system. Using advanced genetic techniques, the team identified specific brainstem neurons that, through the vagus nerve, can either boost or suppress inflammation. This finding opens new avenues for treating immune disorders by targeting this brain-immune axis, potentially transforming the approach to managing diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and toxic shock syndrome. Very exciting! Finding a Master Immune System Controller | HHMI(Thanks, Miriam!).

Siri-ous Competition

OpenAI's latest release, GPT-4o, showcased its advanced capabilities in a live demo, positioning it as a game-changer in natural human-computer interaction on iPhones. This new model demonstrated storytelling, visual understanding, and multilingual conversation interpretation, all within the updated ChatGPT app. The impressive features of GPT-4o signal a potential end for Siri and similar voice assistants, which lag in functionality and responsiveness. Major tech companies like Apple and Samsung are racing to integrate generative AI into their devices, highlighting software as the new frontier in smartphone innovation. This Is the Next Smartphone Evolution - The Atlantic.

Avo-lution

The United States of Avocado | TASTE explores the growing popularity of avocados in the United States, from their rising role as a baby's first food to their integration into various cuisines and cultural dishes. Avocados, celebrated for their nutritional benefits and mild flavor, have doubled consumption in the U.S. since 2001. The article also delves into the avocado industry's expansion, including direct-to-consumer models and the challenges of maintaining quality and affordability. Despite issues like the involvement of organized crime in Mexican avocado production, the fruit's global appeal continues to rise, influencing food trends and diets. (Thanks, Dave / NextDraft!).

Bite-Sized Triumphs

Breaking large goals into smaller, flexible subgoals can significantly enhance goal achievement, as confirmed by a recent study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology. The study involved over 9,000 volunteers from Crisis Text Line, revealing that those assigned weekly or biweekly subgoals volunteered 7-8% more hours than those with a broad annual target. This incremental approach mirrors techniques in language learning apps and savings programs, proving effective across various contexts by making daunting tasks feel more manageable and achievable over time. The Secret to Accomplishing Big Goals Lies in Breaking Them into Flexible, Bite-Size Chunks | Scientific American.

Meta Heads

The European Union has initiated an investigation into Facebook and Instagram over concerns about their addictive impact on children. This probe mirrors earlier inquiries into TikTok's influence on young users. Meta's platforms are being scrutinized for fostering excessive exposure to content about depression and unrealistic body images and for potentially allowing children under 13 to use their services. This investigation, led by EU's internal markets commissioner Thierry Breton, is part of the broader Digital Services Act enforcement, aiming to ensure safer online experiences for children. Meta Faces Fresh Probe Over 'Addictive' Effect on Kids | WIRED.

Weight and See

A four-year study on Wegovy (semaglutide) in Nature Medicine shows sustained weight loss in people with cardiovascular disease who are overweight or obese. Initial weight loss occurred in the first 65 weeks, plateauing after that but remaining stable for the study. The SELECT trial involved 17,604 participants and revealed an average weight reduction of 10.2% for those on Wegovy, compared to 1.5% for the placebo group. Despite limitations like demographic skew, the study supports Wegovy's use for long-term weight management in cardiovascular patients. Researchers now face questions about the drug's long-term usage and cost. Wegovy Can Keep Weight Off for at Least 4 Years, Research Shows | WIRED.

Embracing Solitude

We All Need Time Alone. Here's How to Embrace It (gift article) from The New York Times explores the importance of spending time alone and how to embrace it positively. Psychologists Robert Coplan and Thuyvy Nguyen explain that solitude, distinct from loneliness, offers emotional and physical benefits like stress reduction and increased creativity. They suggest practical tips for incorporating alone time into daily routines, such as tracking moods, engaging in personal hobbies, and setting boundaries with partners. The article encourages finding "micro-moments" of solitude at home or in public spaces to enhance well-being and maintain a healthy balance between solo and social time.

Plasticulture's Paradox

Plastic mulch revolutionizes agriculture by boosting crop yields, conserving water, and reducing pesticide use. However, it leaves behind massive amounts of waste at season's end. While economically and environmentally advantageous in some aspects, the thin, contaminated plastic is tough to recycle, often ending up in landfills or incinerators. Innovative solutions, like those from Revolution Sustainable Solutions, show promise in recycling agricultural plastics, but challenges remain. As biodegradable alternatives prove costly and inconsistent, the farm sector grapples with balancing efficiency and sustainability amidst growing plastic waste. Giant Heaps of Plastic Are Helping Vegetables Grow - The Atlantic

Mind Over Muscle

A study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals how exercise enhances brain health. When activated, muscles, rich in nerve cells, release compounds that boost cognitive function. Brain-muscle communication is crucial for producing proteins, mRNA, and hormones supporting neural growth. Regular exercise maintains these neural connections, promoting brain health. Researchers used a synthetic model to show that muscle stimulation increases brain-boosting substances' production. Although further research is needed to confirm these effects in humans, the findings highlight the profound link between physical activity and cognitive vitality. Why Exercise Is So Good For Our Brains According to A Wild New Study.

062 - Physics of Metallica, AI Annotation, and Guided by Dough - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

Unlocking "Jeong": Korea's Ancient Secret to Happiness

"Jeong" is a millennia-old Korean concept that encapsulates deep feelings of attachment and connection. It's not limited to human relationships; one can feel Jeong towards objects and places. Rooted in collective social responsibility and shared experiences, Jeong promotes a desire to protect and assist. Critical practices include prioritizing quality time with loved ones, offering genuine assistance, cultivating shared experiences, actively engaging within communities, embracing authenticity, and practicing active listening. Embracing Jeong could be a transformative step towards a more fulfilled life. Psychology expert shares the 2,000-year-old Korean mindset that can help you live a 'happier life'.

The AI Annotation Army!

As AI tech takes over, a growing "tasker underclass" is here to stay. This article dives into the world of AI annotators, the unsung heroes who label and sort data to train AI systems. Joe, a 30-year-old from Nairobi, shares his journey from being an annotator, tagging footage for self-driving cars, to running an annotation boot camp. Despite the tediousness of the job, the demand seems endless. However, as AI improves, the need for specialized skills in annotation rises, and Joe begins to question the future of this profession. Inside the AI Factory: The Humans That Make Tech Seem Human.

The Evolution of Beer

The Washington Post had an interesting interactive article on the history and evolution of beer. See how beer evolved through history from Stone Age sludge to craft brews - Washington Post. (gift article)

Brainwaves Beyond the Grave: The Science of Near-Death Experiences

Recent research published in "Resuscitation" delves into the enigmatic realm of near-death experiences. The study found that despite having flatlined brain activity, some cardiac arrest patients exhibited a surge of brain activity during CPR. Intriguingly, a subset of these patients could recall this experience post-recovery. One individual even remembered an audio test administered during their resuscitation. Researchers hypothesize this phenomenon might represent the brain's transition between life and death. This study sheds new light on the intricate relationship between consciousness and the dying brain. Some Patients Who 'Died' but Survived Report Lucid 'Near-Death Experiences,' a New Study Shows - Scientific American.

+see also: 045 - Dying Brains, Frenemies, and the Physiology of Hangry - HealthHippieMD Week In Review — HealthHippieMD.

NCCIH on Irritable Bowel

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health updated its page on the science behind complementary approaches to IBS: Irritable Bowel Syndrome: What You Need To Know | NCCIH.

Finland's Masterclass on Happiness

In March, Finland's tourism department offered ten people to visit the country and attend a "masterclass on happiness." Here are the things a journalist learned: I took Finland's masterclass on happiness: Here's what I learned.

Aging: Not a Bug, It's a Feature

Dreading those silver strands might be shaving years off your life. Research indicates that a positive perspective on aging can add a whopping 7.5 years to your lifespan. And the perks don't stop there: lower risk of dementia, better blood pressure, and generally healthier living. The trick? Toss out those outdated age stereotypes and find some seasoned role models. It's not about pretending aging doesn't exist, but instead seeing it as the ultimate life upgrade. How Optimism About Aging Can Benefit Your Health - The New York Times. (gift article)

The Physics of Metallica

I couldn't stop watching this video shot from the inside of a guitar: Nothing Else Matters - Metallica - Camera in Guitar Sound Hole - YouTube.

Rethinking the Dirt on Immunity

The belief that letting kids play in the dirt boosts their immunity might need a revisit. The hygiene hypothesis suggested that early exposure to germs can strengthen young immune systems, potentially reducing allergies later in life. However, a recent study involving "wildling" mice (lab mice raised in natural environments) found that despite their exposure to many microbes, they weren't any less prone to allergies than their lab-raised counterparts. While the findings don't wholly debunk the hygiene hypothesis, they hint that the relationship between dirt and immunity is more complex than previously thought. So, while playing in the soil has its joys, its health benefits might be overstated. Swedish Scientists Put the Hygiene Hypothesis to the Test in Mice. Results Suggest Early Exposure to Dirt and Microbes Alone May Not Protect Against Asthma and Allergies.

Guided by Dough

The article Food Industry Influence Could Cloud the U.S. Dietary Guidelines, a New Report Says - The New York Times (gift article) reveals potential conflicts of interest. A report by the nonprofit U.S. Right to Know highlights that 9 out of 20 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee experts have affiliations with the food, beverage, pharmaceutical, or weight loss industries. Such ties raise concerns about the objectivity of the guidelines, which are intended to be science-based recommendations for public health. While the current committee has fewer industry connections than previous ones, any potential bias underscores the importance of transparency and rigorous scientific review in public health recommendations. Despite the conflicts, the members feel they could remain objective. Despite their intentions, objectivity is not likely since reciprocity is at play: Cialdini's 6 Principles of Persuasion: A Simple Summary - The World of Work Project.

060 - CRISPR, Wellness Tech Warnings, and the Brain's Fountain of Youth - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

More on the Impact of AI on Science

More on how AI is revolutionizing science in the Economist: How scientists are using artificial intelligence (gift article) and Could AI transform science itself? (gift article).

CRISPR and the Microbiome

CRISPR pioneer and Nobel Prize winner Jennifer Doudna is focusing on the microbiome: Crispr Pioneer Jennifer Doudna Has the Guts to Take On the Microbiome | WIRED. I highly recommend Walter Isaacson's biography on Doudna: The Code Breaker: Jennifer Doudna, Gene Editing, and the Future of the Human Race.

Big Tobacco Stains the Food Industry

"In a broader and much less restricting sense," an executive wrote, "R.J. Reynolds is in the flavor business." Although Big Tobacco is no longer in the food business, they left a terrible legacy: Many junk foods today were made and marketed by Big Tobacco - The Washington Post. (gift article)

Is Junk Food Addictive?

Recent studies suggest highly processed foods may have addictive qualities akin to drugs. Rats opt for sugar over cocaine, even enduring electric shocks for the sweet treat. Humans display similar behavior, consuming processed foods to the point of vomiting and diarrhea post-bariatric surgery. Daily snacking on these foods can rewire our brain's reward circuits, mirroring the cravings induced by cocaine. "In 2022, scientists published an opinion piece in the journal Addiction arguing that highly processed foods should be classified as addictive based on a 1988 Surgeon General report on tobacco products." Food Can Be Literally Addictive, New Evidence Suggests - Scientific American.

Healthy Diet Lowers Dementia Risk

Wapo had an article on the importance of diet in staving off dementia. Recent studies suggest the benefits occur even when started later in life: Eating heart-healthy foods also helps lower your dementia risk - The Washington Post. (gift article)

PANDA-monium: Infections Unmask Childhood Psychiatric Illnesses

Many doctors remain unaware PANDAS (Paediatric Autoimmune-Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcus and its counterpart, PANS (Paediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome), or dismiss them as fictitious. This ignorance results in misdiagnoses, inappropriate treatments, and even parental accusations. Recent research suggests these disorders stem from an autoimmune reaction post-infection. The changing perception may have broader implications for understanding infections' roles in psychiatric conditions (for both children and adults), offering hope for early intervention and effective treatment. How common infections can spark psychiatric illnesses in children. (gift article)

Plasma, Platelets, and PF4: Searching for the Brain's Fountain of Youth

Groundbreaking research in mice may have revealed a key to rejuvenating aging brains. Neuroscientists have uncovered that platelets, specifically a group of molecules called Platelet Factor 4 (PF4), play a vital role in the age-reversal process. Three interventions—transfusions of young blood, the hormone klotho, and physical exercise—all harness PF4 to deliver their benefits to the brain. When 22-month-old mice were injected with young blood plasma or PF4, their cognitive age reversed dramatically. These findings, independently discovered by three research teams, offer new hope for combating age-related cognitive decline and unlocking the secrets of brain rejuvenation. Scientists uncover how young blood rejuvenates aging brains | BBC Science Focus Magazine.

Animal Communication Unveils Surprising Parallels to Human Language

Researchers are uncovering fascinating connections between animal communication and human language. For years, the belief in an unbridgeable gap between human language and animal communication prevailed. However, recent studies challenge this notion, revealing that various species possess intricate vocal learning abilities, from mice to dolphins. These findings suggest that language-related capacities may exist on a continuum across the animal kingdom. Scientists are now delving deeper into deciphering the meanings and intricacies of animal communication, shedding light on the evolution of language and our shared cognitive landscapes with other creatures. The Animals Are Talking. What Does It Mean? - The New York Times. (gift article)

+How AI is being leveraged to decode animal communication: Can We Talk to Whales? | The New Yorker and ‎Unexplainable: Can we talk to animals? on Apple Podcasts.

When the CIA, Artificial Intelligence, and Healthcare Collide

Palantir's Reputation Stalks Its Bid for the UK's National Health Data | WIRED is an interesting article about how Peter Thiel's big data analytics company (and surveillance government contractor), Palantir, is courting Britain's National Health Service for access to their data. What possibly could go wrong?

Big Tech Knows Your Most Intimate Health Details

Your most intimate health details have become data points in the digital realm. Tech giants, often unbeknownst to users, accumulate a treasure trove of personal health information through online interactions, from therapy sessions to fitness apps. Recent cases, like BetterHelp's data-sharing debacle, have exposed the extent of this information harvesting, raising concerns about privacy violations and potential harm. While some believe federal laws like HIPAA shield health data, the truth is more complicated. A fragmented regulatory landscape, limited enforcement resources, and the rapid evolution of technology call for comprehensive data privacy legislation to keep pace with the digital age. What Big Tech Knows About Your Body - The Atlantic.

Build a Real Music Collection

This author cites why she owns her music collection and eschews streaming: Want to Enjoy Music More? Stop Streaming It. - The New York Times. (gift article)

059 - Enacted Dreams, MDMA, and Chillin' Like a Monk - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

How Enacted Dreams Predict Parkinson's

Enacted dreams during the rapid eye movement (REM) phase of sleep may be an early sign of Parkinson's disease and other brain disorders, according to a Scientific American article. Known as REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD), this phenomenon affects a small percentage of the population and often precedes neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's and Lewy body dementia. Researchers increasingly recognize RBD as a valuable early marker for these conditions, offering potential opportunities for early intervention and clinical trials to slow or prevent disease progression. Acting Out Dreams Predicts Parkinson's and Other Brain Diseases - Scientific American

Checklist for AI Self-Awareness Emerges

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to advance, whether AI systems can become conscious is gaining traction. To address this, 19 experts, including neuroscientists, philosophers, and computer scientists, have developed a checklist of criteria that could indicate AI consciousness. Published in the arXiv preprint repository, their approach draws from six neuroscience-based theories of consciousness, emphasizing "phenomenal consciousness" or subjective experience. By assessing AI systems against these criteria, the authors aim to provide a more nuanced evaluation of consciousness potential in AI, highlighting the need for more precise theories of AI consciousness in the future. If AI Becomes Conscious, Here's How We Can Tell - Scientific American

New Book on Happiness

"The common strategy of trying to eliminate problems from life to get happier is futile and mistaken. We must instead look for the "why" of life to make our problems an opportunity for learning and growth," Arthur Brooks writes in Three Myths and Four Truths About How to Get Happier - The Atlantic. The column refers to his new book, Build the Life You Want: The Art and Science of Getting Happier, , co-written with Oprah.

Chillin' Like A Monk: The Quest for Biostasis

Can We Stop Time in the Body? - Nautilus delves into the intriguing concept of biostasis—essentially, hitting the pause button on the body's metabolic processes. The article begins with a captivating Tibetan ceremony involving monks sleeping and surviving a Himalayan mountainside in sub-freezing temperatures, sparking curiosity about the physiological mechanisms at play. DARPA's pioneering biostasis project aims to develop a drug that can temporarily halt metabolism, offering potential lifesaving benefits in emergencies. The article introduces SNC80, a drug that slows metabolism in tadpoles, showcasing its reversible effects without harm to vital organs. Although not a perfect solution, the quest for biostasis continues, inspired by nature's examples, from hibernating bears to the remarkable spiny desert mouse. Ultimately, the article highlights the fascinating pursuit of slowing down time within the human body.

How Artificial Intelligence Can Revolutionize Science

How artificial intelligence can revolutionize science was an interesting article in the Economist. It cited two ways AI could accelerate scientific discovery: "The first is "literature-based discovery" (LBD), which involves analyzing existing scientific literature, using ChatGPT-style language analysis, to look for new hypotheses, connections or ideas that humans may have missed." (I mentioned some of the emerging tools in a previous newsletter: 052 - Genetic Judo, Young Blood, and Gray Hair). "The second area is "robot scientists," also known as "self-driving labs." These robotic systems use AI to form new hypotheses, based on analysis of existing data and literature, and then test those hypotheses by performing hundreds or thousands of experiments, in fields including systems biology and materials science." And for more on this topic, see my friend and colleague, Gary Kantor's excellent LinkedIn article: Can Generative AI Close The Knowledge Gap?

The Happiest States in the Union

Utah Named the Happiest State in New Study Where does your state fit? Happiest States in America (2023)

Understanding Age-Related Forgetfulness

Ever find yourself at a loss for a familiar face or the whereabouts of your car keys? Don't fret; it's not just you. Our memory can take a quirky turn as we age, often leaving us in moments of blank confusion. The good news? It's usually nothing to worry about. While memory retrieval becomes less efficient in our fifties, it doesn't necessarily mean a problem. Experts suggest that embracing mindfulness, reducing multitasking, managing stress, getting enough sleep, maintaining a healthy diet, and even indulging in some cardiovascular exercise can keep your memory on its toes. If memory loss significantly disrupts your daily life, then it's time to chat with your doctor. Why Memory Lapses Are Not Always a Cause for Concern - The New York Times (gift article).

What OpenAI Really Wants

Wired had a long-form story on OpenAI and its CEO, Sam Altman. What OpenAI Really Wants | WIRED

Anxiety and Creativity

Anxiety is not always a boon to creatives. "Depending on the situation, fear, and anxiety can inspire or impede. But when anxiety becomes overwhelming, creative work often stalls." Anxiety can often be a drag on creativity, upending the trope of the tortured artist.

MDMA for PTSD

"Results of a new study may offer regulators enough evidence to allow the psychedelic, also known as Ecstasy, to be considered for use as a PTSD treatment." MDMA Therapy for PTSD Inches Closer to U.S. Approval - The New York Times (gift article).

056 - Dementia Prediction, Button Dogs, Prosody, and Ink Therapy - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

Mind Your Risk: New Tool Predicts Dementia Likelihood

To crack the code of dementia risks, researchers have unveiled an innovative tool that forecasts an individual's chances of developing the condition within the next 14 years. This predictive model, known as the U.K. Biobank Dementia Risk Score (UKBDRS), delves into 11 crucial factors, including age, education, diabetes history, depression history, stroke history, parental dementia history, deprivation levels, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, living arrangement, and gender. The tool, which also considers the influence of the APOE gene, trumps other risk assessments and offers a 40% chance of preventing cases by targeting modifiable factors. Dementia risk study finds 11 key factors behind condition.

Feeling the Beat: Haptic Suits

This article features haptic suits—backpack-like devices that translate music into vibrations on the skin. Haptic technology advancements have fueled innovations in creating shared musical experiences for all concertgoers, blurring the lines between hearing and feeling the groove. Haptic Suits Let You Feel Music Through Your Skin - The New York Times. (gift article)

Another Brick in the Wall: Neuroscience of Prosody

You may have heard scientists recreated parts of Pink Floyd's Another Brick in the Wall using only the brain's electrical signals. Here is a short video on the research and its implications: Tuning into the Brain's Music: Decoding Song from Brainwaves - Neuroscience News.

Button Dogs

If you spend time on TikTok or Instagram, you're probably familiar with "button dogs" who communicate with their families by stepping on electronic pads that speak words when pressed. Can dogs use language in this way? Scientific American elaborates: Can Dogs Use Language? - Scientific American.

Nurses TRAPped

Healthcare employers use a sneaky tactic called "Training Repayment Agreements" (or TRAPs) to keep nurses from leaving their jobs. These agreements make nurses repay training costs if they quit within a specific time, essentially trapping them with financial obligations. Neil Rudis, a nurse, found himself stuck in this web, unable to leave due to the debt. These debt-based schemes are rising in nursing as companies try to deter nurses from changing jobs. While some companies are ditching TRAPs, many nurses still grapple with these financial shackles, affecting their well-being and worsening workforce shortages. Health Care Companies Are Using Debt to Trap Nurses on the Job – Mother Jones.

Feed Me: A.I. Sparks Race for Information

The escalating demand for A.I. model training data prompts a creative scramble among A.I. makers. As larger models require vast datasets, A.I. companies are hunting for new sources of information while organizations with substantial data holdings seek ways to monetize them. This article discusses how the scarcity of quality training text, the legal battles around copyright infringement, and the push for compensation for ingested material reshape the A.I. landscape. The pursuit of data has led to partnerships and deals with media outlets, record labels, scientific publishers, and other data-rich entities, igniting a fervent competition for valuable information. A.I. is setting off a great scramble for data.

Sleep Debt

A large percentage of the American public is sleep-deprived. Unfortunately, repaying a sleep debt is more demanding than you might think: Here's why there's no quick fix for sleep deprivation - Big Think.

Aging Well

Aging isn't a one-size-fits-all journey – it's a tangled interplay of biology and environment. This expert breakdown by biologist Ellen Quarles reveals why aging is a unique experience for each person and even for cells within our bodies. Unraveling the intricate web of cellular processes, from DNA repair to protein recycling, Quarles explains how aging disrupts this delicate network. While there's no magic cure, interventions that target multiple critical cellular processes might hold the key to extending our healthier years. So, don't expect a universal anti-aging remedy, but rather embrace the intricate puzzle of your own unique aging path. Aging is complicated – a biologist explains why no two people or cells age the same way, and what this means for anti-aging interventions.

Nurturing Gut Microbes for Well-Being

Your body is a reflection of what you eat. These Gut Microbes Are Crucial To Well-Being — What To Eat To Cultivate Them delves into the pivotal role of gut microbes in regulating your well-being.

Drug Cost and Value-Based Pricing

When Dying Patients Want Unproven Drugs | The New Yorker got me thinking about incentives for the pharmaceutical industry in the U.S. I went down a rabbit hole and ended up learning quite a bit about value-based pharmaceutical pricing. Value-Based Pricing of Prescription Drugs Benefits Patients and Promotes Innovation - Center for American Progress. is well worth a read.

A.I. Helps Stroke Survivor Speak Again

In a heartwarming breakthrough combining neuroscience and artificial intelligence, a paralyzed woman's thoughts are translated into speech through an avatar. Ann Johnson, who lost her speaking ability after a stroke at 30, saw her brain signals converted into vocalized language by implanted electrodes. This achievement, reported in the journal Nature, is a first in synthesizing spoken words and facial expressions directly from brain activity. This milestone holds promise for those who've lost speech due to strokes or conditions like cerebral palsy. The aim? To restore not just words but the essence of who people are. A.I. Helps a Stroke Patient Speak Again, a Milestone for Tech and Neuroscience - The New York Times. (gift article)

Avocado Odyssey

Avocado aficionados know the disappointment of bringing home what appears to be the perfect avocado only to find it mushy or tasteless. The capricious nature of avocados is due to their unique ripening process, setting them apart from other fruits. The article, How to select a perfectly ripe avocado. delves into choosing the perfect avocado.

Ink Therapy

A new study suggests that combatting post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) could be as simple as putting pen to paper. This innovative treatment involves supervised 30-minute writing sessions where patients recount their traumatic experiences. , this approach proved as effective as traditional talk therapy in a study involving 178 veterans. Importantly, dropout rates were significantly lower in the writing group. This method, known as written exposure therapy, inspired by "expressive writing" experiments from the 1980s, offers a quicker, potentially more accessible alternative to established PTSD treatments. As the field evolves, the healing power of words gains renewed attention. Writing Therapy Shows Promise for PTSD - The New York Times. (gift article)

055 - Forever Chemicals, Prebunking Misinformation, and Chronic Pain - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

Fiber Up

Fiber deficiency is a widespread issue, despite its numerous health benefits. Research suggests that fiber-rich diets promote healthier digestion, longer lives, and reduced risks of chronic conditions. Modern diets often fall short of recommended fiber intake, potentially due to processing that strips food of its fiber content. Experts advocate for gradually increasing fiber consumption through whole plant-based foods, such as legumes, whole grains, and fruits. These dietary adjustments can help prevent various health issues and support a well-balanced gut microbiome. Why is Fiber Good For You? And How to Eat More of It - The New York Times (gift article)

+and an article on the growing popularity of psyllium....Psyllium Husks Entice the Ozempic Generation - The New York Times

AI Transforming Music

3 ways AI is transforming music is an interesting article that mentions several sites I plan to explore.

Insurers' Unexpected Fees

As if insurers weren't making enough money, The Hidden Fee Costing Doctors Millions Every Year — ProPublicadiscusses how a powerful lobbyist's influence led to a federal agency allowing health insurers to charge fees on payments to doctors. The shift went largely unnoticed but financially impacted medical professionals. Doctors must now pay up to 5% in fees for electronic payments, creating an extra burden in an already strained healthcare system. As large insurers profit, doctors are left grappling with additional costs, potentially forcing some practices to close and increasing patient healthcare expenses.

+And more alleged shameless behavior by Cigna, one of the biggest U.S. healthcare insurers: Cigna Accused of Using AI, Not Doctors, to Deny Claims "The lawsuit says that Cigna relies on an algorithm, PxDx, to review and frequently deny medically necessary claims. According to court records, the system allows Cigna's doctors to "instantly reject claims on medical grounds without ever opening patient files." Using the system, the average claims processing time is 1.2 seconds."

Aristotle's Virtues for a Good Life

The Greek philosopher Aristotle offered a recipe for happiness, focusing not on seeking happiness but cultivating virtues to attract it. He identified ten virtues, including courage, temperance, liberality, magnificence, and more, which modern research indicates can lead to a happier life. These virtues encompass qualities like self-control, kindness, truthfulness, and forgiveness. By following this ancient wisdom and turning these virtues into habits, individuals can open the door to a life of well-being and contentment. Aristotle's 10 Rules for a Happy Life - The Atlantic

How Genes Shape Your Palate

New research has revealed 481 genome regions connected to dietary patterns and preferences for specific foods. These findings highlight the influence of genetics on our taste preferences, ranging from fruit to alcohol. Based on a large-scale genomics study, this comprehensive analysis is a significant advancement in understanding how genes impact our eating habits. The research could offer insights into nutritional needs and disease risks and guide interventions for healthier eating patterns. Your Genes May Influence What You Like to Eat - Scientific American

How to Say You're Sorry

How to Apologize Like a Pro - The Atlantic gives tips and tricks for life's inevitable disagreements and misunderstandings.

Academic M-AI-lfeasance

Academic journals struggle to spot the infiltration of generative AI in submitted papers. The use of AI to craft scholarly articles, like a recent fossil fuel efficiency study, is difficult to discern. Although some efforts have been made to enforce disclosure, many cases have slipped through. The evolving technology poses both benefits and risks. While AI can enhance non-native writers' language skills, undisclosed AI-written content could mislead, harm credibility, and even propagate AI-generated misinformation. The challenge of identifying AI-generated submissions grows as language models become more sophisticated, prompting researchers to advocate for improved detection tools and more transparent disclosure protocols. Use of AI Is Seeping Into Academic Journals—and It's Proving Difficult to Detect | WIRED

"Prebunking" Misinformation

Sander van der Linden, a University of Cambridge psychologist, pioneers a method to immunize people against fake news. Inspired by the concept of vaccines, van der Linden's approach involves exposing individuals to weakened misinformation to build cognitive defenses. His work began by countering climate change denial and evolved into collaborating with social media platforms like YouTube to display pre-video warnings about misinformation tactics. By partnering with technology giants and disseminating his ideas, van der Linden aims to empower individuals to prebunk false narratives and protect themselves against deceptive content. This Psychologist Wants To Vaccinate You Against Fake News | WIRED

Wegovy Origin Story

The article Where Ozempic, Wegovy and New Weight Loss Drugs Came From - The New York Times (gift article) explores the origin and enigmatic effectiveness of groundbreaking weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy. These medications offer hope for combating obesity, which affects a significant portion of the population. Unlike previous approaches, developing these drugs was not straightforward; researchers stumbled upon unexpected ways to induce weight loss. The drugs' mechanisms remain mysterious, exposing the brain to hormone levels never seen in nature. Despite this uncertainty, the drugs offer a new era of potential treatments for obesity.

Non-Pharmacological Approaches to Pain

The NCCIH has a page devoted to the efficacy of non-pharmacological approaches to pain relief: Chronic Pain: What You Need To Know | NCCIH

Forever Chemicals

The NY Times had an excellent (and sobering) article on "Forever chemicals: "'Forever Chemicals' Are Everywhere. What Are They Doing to Us? - The New York Times (gift article)

049 - Collective Neuroscience, Biobanks, and Consciousness- HealthHippieMD Week In Review

The Problem with Biobanks

In today's biobank studies, your genetic information can provide valuable insights even with partial information. Researchers often use de-identified genetic data stored in biobanks for various studies, but the broad consent obtained from participants may not adequately inform them about the potential uses of their data. Recent research highlights that even non-response to survey questions can reveal information about a person's education, health, and income levels if genetic data is available. To ensure transparency and trust, improving informed consent processes is essential in leveraging biobanks effectively for health research. Researchers can learn a lot with your genetic information, even when you skip survey questions – yesterday's mode of informed consent doesn't quite fit today's biobank studies

Consciousness Showdown

In a packed auditorium, neuroscientists and philosophers eagerly awaited the unveiling of groundbreaking results from a two-decade-old bet. David Chalmers, a philosopher, and Christof Koch, a neuroscientist, had wagered on finding a neural correlate of consciousness within 25 years. As cutting-edge experiments shed light on the nature of consciousness, two leading theories emerged: the Global Workspace Theory and the Integrated Information Theory. A high-stakes trial pitted these theories against each other, with mixed results, leaving the search for a clear neural marker of consciousness unresolved. Nonetheless, a new bet has been placed, setting the stage for a fascinating future of exploration. 2 Leading Theories of Consciousness Square Off - The New York Times (gift article)

Climate Change and Salmon Farming

Chile produces more than half of the farmed salmon consumed in the U.S. Climate change is profoundly altering the industry...The Perils of Farming Salmon in a Warming World

Cracking the Case

In a groundbreaking study, researchers from Nanjing University and the University of Bristol have delved into the age-old question: "Which came first, the chicken or the egg?" Contrary to previous beliefs, scientists discovered that the earliest common ancestors of the Amniota family, which includes chickens, did not lay hard-shelled eggs. Instead, they either gave birth to live young or practiced extended embryo retention (EER), where the fetus develops within the mother for an extended period. These findings challenge the notion that the hard-shelled egg was essential for the evolution of terrestrial animals and shed new light on the complex process of animal reproduction and evolution. Which Came First, the Chicken or the Egg? Scientists Might Finally Have the Answer.

Fourth of July Food

In honor of the Fourth of July, here are some interesting food origin stories: Pink Lemonade's origin story begins with a disgruntled circus clown (gift article) and The Hamburger's origin story (gift article).

Whose "Fault" is Obesity

The Washington Post had an interesting opinion piece on responsibility for the obesity epidemic: Whose fault is obesity? Primarily the food industry. (gift article)

Ode to Dietary Fiber

"Limiting simple sugars and refined carbohydrates may improve certain aspects of metabolic health, as these are some of the most easily digested and absorbed calories. But a more sustainable and comprehensive way of improving health may be increasing the unprocessed, more complex, and slowly absorbed carbohydrates that come with their natural packages and instructions intact – those with fiber." Dietary fiber, which few Americans get enough of, is one of the keys to weight management. Fiber is your body's natural guide to weight management – rather than cutting carbs out of your diet, eat them in their original fiber packaging instead.

What To Do When You Can't Fall Asleep

What to Do When You Can't Fall Asleep May Surprise You - Scientific American has some good tips for those occasional nights of insomnia and when lack of sleep becomes a problem.

AI and Musical Hit Prediction

AI researchers claim to have found a link between the body's physiological response to music and the likelihood of a song becoming a hit. By analyzing cardiac activity using a wearable device, the researchers converted the data into measures of attention and emotion. Their machine-learning model achieved a remarkable 97% accuracy in predicting whether a song would be a hit or a flop. While the study offers potential implications for music production and curation, skeptics raise concerns about biases, ethical implications, and the reliability of fusing AI and brain data. Can Your Body's Response to Music Predict Hit Songs? A New AI Study Claims It Can - Scientific American

Collective Neuroscience: Brain Waves Align in Social Interaction

Brain Waves Synchronize when People Interact explores the fascinating phenomenon of brain wave synchronization during social interactions. Neuroscientists have discovered that when people converse, share experiences, or engage in joint activities, their brain waves synchronize. This collective neuroscience, as it's called, reveals that corresponding neurons in different brains fire simultaneously, creating matching patterns akin to dancers moving in sync. This synchronization extends to various brain regions and is associated with enhanced learning, enjoyment, and social bonds. Scientists are delving deeper into this field to understand the benefits and implications of brain wave synchrony in social behavior.

AI and Diabetes Management

To revolutionize the management of type 1 diabetes, researchers are exploring the potential of artificial intelligence (AI). Scientists developed a machine learning algorithm that can assist in insulin delivery for diabetes patients. Using offline reinforcement learning and virtual patient simulations, the AI algorithm achieved comparable dosing accuracy to commercial controllers but with significantly reduced training time. Although regulatory approval and real-world implementation remain, AI-powered diabetes technology could offer new hope for individuals living with the condition. Managing Type 1 Diabetes Is Tricky. Can AI Help?

041 - Doctor Dog, AI Mind-Reading, and Smelling Virtual Roses - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

Long Telomeres

"Short telomeres were thought to be bad — people with premature aging syndromes had short telomeres — so, by analogy, long telomeres were thought to be good..." A paper published last week, Familial Clonal Hematopoiesis in a Long Telomere Syndrome | NEJM, challenged current assumptions about telomere length. Link Between Long Telomeres and Long Life Is a Tall Tale, Study Finds - The New York Times

Rapamycin

"Rapamycin is a paradoxical drug. It improves anti-cancer immunity, but it may also cause cancer. It protects against bacterial infection, halts viral replication, and suppresses the immune system. It reverses symptoms of Alzheimer's disease but also increases plaque deposits in the brain. It improves metabolic function, but it also causes type 2 diabetes. This list of contradictions goes on and on; however, there is one thing about Rapamycin that scientists tend to agree on: it is potentially the most powerful anti-aging drug ever discovered." I learned quite a bit from the article: Rapamycin: Unlucky history of the most powerful anti-aging drug.

ChatGPT's Empathetic Bedside Manner

In a recent study, healthcare professionals preferred the responses from A.I. over those from flesh-and-blood doctors. Could generative A.I. have a place in the future of healthcare-patient interaction? ChatGPT Has a Better 'Bedside Manner' Than Doctors.

+Quartz has some suggestions on how to get more out of your ChatGPT queries: How to use ChatGPT at work.

Futile Care

The Atlantic had an interesting opinion piece on the importance of end-of-life planning: An ICU nurse reflects on futile care. _"But what I think and feel doesn't matter. What matters is what the patient would think and whether the people who make choices about their care both know what the patient would think and understand the likelihood that their choices will have this result. This is often not the case."

Inside the Upcoming $1.5 Trillion Farm Bill

The Conversation published a peek behind the curtain as the government ramps its efforts to bring forth the next farm bill. These four challenges will shape the next farm bill – and how the U.S. eats.

The Association Between Season Allergies and Mood Disorders

"Not only are the physical symptoms draining, but a growing body of research also shows an association between allergic rhinitis — commonly known as hay fever — and mood disorders like anxiety and depression." How Seasonal Allergies Can Affect Mental Health.

Childhood Obesity

Obesity in U.S. children was already high and was exacerbated by the pandemic.Obesity in children is rising dramatically, and it comes with major – and sometimes lifelong – health consequences talks about the trend and its implications.

Mindfulness and Meditation

The benefits of mindfulness and meditation practice are numerous. The article Mindfulness, meditation, and self-compassion discusses benefits and gives practical steps to begin your practice.

Noggin Reading

Scientists have developed a mind-reading technology powered by A.I. that can decode a person's thoughts into speech. The researchers used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and a large language model to analyze brain recordings and translate them into sentences. Although the technology's potential to help those who have lost their ability to speak, like stroke victims, is promising, it raises ethical privacy concerns. Mind-reading technology, powered by A.I., sparks ethical concerns.

Oh, Look At All the Lonely People

A recent study suggests that the brains of lonely people respond to visual stimuli in unique ways, unlike non-lonely people, implying that lonely people may view the world differently. The findings also suggest that being surrounded predominantly by people who view the world differently from oneself may be a risk factor for loneliness. The brains of lonely people process the world differently

Ode to the Human Genome Project

The Economist had an excellent article on the Human Genome Project, How the Human Genome Project revolutionized biology, although I was disappointed not to see the microbiome mentioned. As Julien Davies pointed out, the HGP is incomplete until we understand the role of microbial DNA: In a Map for Human Life, Count the Microbes, Too | Science.

Tweaking Vegetable Genes for Taste

Scientific American published an article on how CRISPR gene editing technology is being used to improve the taste of food: Tweaking Vegetables' Genes Could Make Them Tastier--And You'll Get to Try Them Soon - Scientific American (Thanks Dave Pell - NextDraft)

Doctor Dog

The article How My Dog Knows When I'm Sick is about how dogs can sense when their owners are sick and the signals they use to detect it. According to researchers, dogs can smell changes in their owners, including a virus or bacteria infection. They can also pick up on emotional changes, such as depression or lethargy, through the owner's voice changes. While it's unclear what dogs make of these changes, they may be more curious or suspicious than concerned. Nonetheless, dogs' empathy has significant benefits for human health.

Smell the (Virtual) Roses

Olfaction is tightly coupled with the parts of the brain responsible for emotions and memory. The evocative nature of the sense of smell is why companies are interested in deploying smell in the Metaverse: How to bring scents to the Metaverse and Smelling in V.R. environment possible with new gaming technology.

040 - Terminal Lucidity, Longevity, and Empathetic ChatBots - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

Terminal Lucidity

"Sometimes, people with dementia who hadn't been coherent for years will suddenly revert to their mentally sharp selves for up to several hours -- and then die shortly after." Scientists are interested in the cause of "paradoxical lucidity" and how it might inform the neuroscience of dementia. Scientists are finally taking a closer look at terminal lucidity.

The Hidden Cost of Amazon Clinic

Amazon's foray into healthcare, Amazon Clinic, (011 - CVS, Amazon, and the Disruption of Primary Care, Anxiety Inoculants, Wabi Sabi, and A.I. - HealthHippieMD Week In Review — HealthHippieMD) keeps the monetary cost of seeing a healthcare professional low but at the cost of your medical privacy. "Signing an authorization isn't a "waiver" of your rights, but you're consenting to your data being disclosed for additional purposes, at which point it leaves the protections of HIPAA." The Washington Post explains: Amazon Clinic patients must sign away some privacy rights under HIPAA. (gift article)

Gut Feelings

"As we wait to establish causal influences through clinical trials, clinicians should advise patients suffering from mood disorders to modify their diet by increasing the intake of fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, as these provide the required fuel/fiber to the gut microbiota for their enrichment, and more short-chain fatty acids are produced for the optimal functioning of the body." More evidence that the microbiome and metabolome drive major depressive episodes. Read the manuscript here: Interplay of Metabolome and Gut Microbiome in Individuals With Major Depressive Disorder vs. Control Individuals | Depressive Disorders and synopsis here: Disrupted Gut Microbiome a Key Driver of Major Depression?

+More on the link between ultra-processed foods, mental health, and cognition: How Eating Ultra-processed Foods Can Affect Your Mental Health. (gift article)

Learning Man

You've heard of the music/culture festivals Burning Man and Coachella, but did you know there is a similar gathering focused on immersing attendees in education, play, and creation? Yep, 'Learning Man' is becoming a thing

The Mechanics of Smell

These scientists are striving to understand the mechanism behind human olfaction: How a Human Smell Receptor Works Is Finally Revealed.

Loneliness

Vivek Murthy, America's Surgeon General, is back in the news again, talking about the loneliness epidemic: Loneliness is a Health Crisis, Surgeon General Says. Here's How to Combat It. (gift article) Also see his excellent book on the topic: Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World.

The Modern World is Aging You and Your Brain

An interesting article in Wired about studies examining the brains of non-industrialized societies vs. Western Society: The Modern World Is Aging Your Brain. And the manuscript that inspired the article: Brain volume, energy balance, and cardiovascular health in two nonindustrial South American populations.

Mental Health Chatbots

An article in the N.Y. Times about Pi, an emotional support chatbot: My Weekend With an Emotional Support A.I. Companion. (gift article) These new products remind me of the science fiction movies: Her (film))and Ex Machina (film).) The lines of human characteristics such as empathy and even consciousness are blurring......

"Functional Neurological Disorders"

A long-form read about how Long Covid influences understanding "functional" disorders like ME/CFS (Chronic Fatigue). Contrary to historical thinking, the diseases ARE NOT in the patient's head: We Might Have Long Covid All Wrong

Shady Longevity Research

The quest to conquer aging rages on. Mixed in with traditional scientists are upstarts trying to cash in on a human fountain of youth. Wired had an expose/overview of one of these companies, BioViva, and its founder Liz Parrish: Inside the Secretive Life-Extension Clinic.

Run AwAI

AI has constantly been in the news since last November when OpenAI made its public debut. This week President Biden hosted a meeting at the White House concerning the dangers of A.I. Along those lines, one of the scientists who made significant contributions to the birth of A.I. quit his decade-long stint at Google to talk freely about the risks: Geoffrey Hinton leaves Google, warns about the dangers of AI. (gift article)

+AI is getting better at translating brain activity into words: A.I. Is Getting Better at Mind-Reading

Do Ovaries Hold the Secret of Longevity?

The ovaries age much more quickly than the other tissues of the human body. Scientists think understanding why may hold the key to a longer, healthier life: The Secrets of Aging Are Hidden in Your Ovaries.

Seven Types of People You Need in Your Life

Interesting article in TED about the people you need in your life to counteract stress: The seven types of people you need in your life to be resilient