121 - Grief Relief, Fighting Time, Diet and Dementia Risk - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

121 HealthHippie Newsletter Audio Overview

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Food for Thought: How Diet Fuels Dementia Risk

Researchers discovered a clear link between inflammatory diets and increased dementia risk, analyzing 10 years of data from the Framingham Heart Study Offspring cohort. High Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) scores were associated with all-cause dementia and Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that anti-inflammatory diets could play a preventive role. Although promising, these findings require further validation.Dementia Incidence Linked to Inflammatory Foods | MedPage Today (Thanks, Amy!)

Grief Relief: Navigating the Holidays with Compassion

The holiday season intensifies grief for many, but experts offer strategies for coping, including expressing emotions, engaging in rituals, and creating new traditions. Supporting loved ones involves empathy, practical help, and listening without judgment. Prolonged grief disorder, recognized in 2022, highlights the need for targeted interventions. How to Manage Holiday Grief in Yourself and Others | Scientific American.

Cultural Prescription: Art for What Ails You

Engaging in arts and culture isn't just entertaining—it's scientifically proven to enhance health, happiness, and productivity. A groundbreaking UK study reveals that occasional participation in cultural activities, from concerts to drawing classes, alleviates depression, pain, and loneliness, generating a societal financial benefit of £8 billion annually. Arts engagement boosts cognitive function, reduces reliance on medication, and supports preventative healthcare goals. Researchers highlight these benefits as personal and pivotal to public health, urging against cuts to arts funding. This study underscores art's power to enrich life, making it an essential component of wellness strategies.
Consuming arts and culture is good for health and wellbeing, research finds. (Thanks, Laura!).

Prescription for Competition: PBMs and Drug Pricing Woes

Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) control drug prices and coverage, but market concentration among a few dominant players stifles competition and inflates costs. While PBMs negotiate discounts, their practices often limit generics and create opaque pricing. Experts call for regulatory reforms to ensure fair competition and consumer savings. What are pharmacy benefit managers? A health economist explains how lack of competition drives up drug prices for everyone.

Antibody Aging Hacks: Fighting Time with Science

Antibodies, vital in combating infection, may now target aging itself. Recent studies reveal their potential to extend lifespan, rejuvenate tissues, and fight age-related diseases. Antibody therapies offer a revolutionary approach to aging, from targeting senescent cells to reducing inflammation. Could these medical breakthroughs be the future of anti-aging Antibodies Could Soon Help Slow the Aging Process.

Mind Your Brain: Practical Tips for Cognitive Wellness

Simple lifestyle changes—like better sleep hygiene, yoga, mindfulness, and gardening—can enhance cognitive and emotional health. Embrace the joy of missing out (JOMO) and make small, impactful shifts to protect your brain. Our best tips for cognitive health - The Washington Post (gift article.)

Mark Hyman's Functional Medicine Empire

Dr. Mark Hyman's functional medicine empire spans supplements, books, and diagnostics, merging holistic care with high-profile allies like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Despite criticisms of unproven methods, his focus on root-cause medicine aligns with rising interest in preventative health. How RFK Jr's Longtime Friend Mark Hyman Built a Wellness Empire - The New York Times (gift article).

Tackling Depression with VNS Therapy

Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) offers hope for treatment-resistant depression, with recent trials showing improved quality of life for patients with long-term depressive symptoms. Though FDA-approved, limited insurance coverage hinders access. How stimulating the body's largest nerve may relieve severe depression.

Longer Life, Shorter Straws

While global life expectancy has risen, Americans face a grim trade-off: more years of life spent sick. The U.S. lifespan-healthspan gap now averages 12.4 years, the widest globally. Women fare worse, with conditions like musculoskeletal and neurological diseases driving disparity. Researchers attribute this to a "disease paradox," where surviving acute illnesses leads to chronic conditions. The data calls for urgent reform in healthcare priorities to focus on extending not just years, but quality of life. Americans are living longer—but most of the extra time is spent being sick.

Patience in Peril: Conquering the Waiting Game

Anticipating test results can be as stressful as bad news itself. Experts recommend replacing passive distractions with immersive activities like exercise or puzzles to curb anxiety. Avoid "doomscrolling" for diagnoses, and instead, craft clear action plans with healthcare providers to regain control. Even if coping mechanisms falter, there's solace in preparedness—those who worry the most often adapt best to outcomes. Learn to wait wisely and reclaim peace in uncertain moments. How to Stay Calm While Waiting For a Test Result - The New York Times (gift article).

Covid's Lingering Gut Troubles

Post-Covid gastrointestinal issues, from IBS to chronic pain, are an unwelcome surprise for many survivors. Studies show up to 40% of Covid patients experience lasting digestive symptoms, often linked to inflammation or microbiome imbalances. Fortunately, targeted diets, mindfulness techniques, and medical interventions offer relief. While recovery varies, experts stress the importance of early intervention and holistic approaches to managing these life-altering conditions. How Covid Can Change Your Gut - The New York Times (gift article).

Lawn and Order: Farming the Front Yard

In Los Angeles, lawns are transforming into sustainable micro-farms, thanks to Crop Swap LA. These hyper-local gardens provide fresh produce to food-insecure families while using a fraction of the water that grass demands. The initiative, founded by Jamiah Hargins, turns suburban spaces into eco-friendly hubs, demonstrating that small-scale farming can fight food insecurity and environmental waste simultaneously.Growing Food Instead of Lawns in California Front Yards - The New York Times (gift article).

Algorithm Checkup: Regulating AI in Medicine

With AI-driven tools increasingly guiding healthcare decisions, experts warn of unregulated risks in clinical algorithms. A new rule under the Affordable Care Act aims to prevent biases in medical AI but leaves gaps for non-AI tools. Researchers stress the need for consistent standards across all clinical decision aids to ensure transparency and equity in patient care. AI in health should be regulated, but don't forget about the algorithms, researchers say.

120 - Mirror Cells, Fighting Inflammation with Food, and Artful Healing - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

120 -- HealthHippieMD Week In Review Audio Overview

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Curiosity Killed the Bias

How to see the humanity in anyone | Psyche Guides explores the transformative practice of "deep curiosity," a tool for fostering empathy, connection, and understanding across divides. The author recounts a yearlong journey meeting individuals with opposing beliefs and challenging stereotypes fueled by assumptions and social media. Through the DIVE model—Detach, Intend, Value, Embrace—he teaches how to unlearn biases, prepare for meaningful dialogue, and honor others' dignity. By viewing challenges as opportunities for growth, deep curiosity strengthens relationships and enriches self-awareness. This guide empowers readers to break barriers and connect authentically in an increasingly polarized world. (Thanks, Laura!).

+see also: The War For Kindness - The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos - Apple Podcasts.

Food Fights Inflammation

An anti-inflammatory diet swaps processed foods for whole, nutrient-dense options to combat chronic inflammation. Foods rich in antioxidants, polyphenols, and essential nutrients help reduce oxidative stress and regulate hormones. A Mediterranean-inspired diet—packed with fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, and olive oil—nurtures a healthy gut biome, while magnesium-rich and brightly colored foods fight stress and free radicals. Spices like turmeric and garlic add flavor and anti-inflammatory benefits. While diet is just one piece of the wellness puzzle, adopting these habits offers long-term physical and mental health benefits—making it a marathon worth running. An anti-inflammatory diet can boost your health. What to eat and what to avoid | Fortune Well.

How Seed Oils May Ignite Cancer Risks

A new study highlights the potential role of omega-6 fatty acids—abundant in seed oils used in ultra-processed foods—in promoting inflammation that fuels colon cancer. Researchers found high levels of these proinflammatory lipids in tumor samples, alongside a deficiency in inflammation-resolving omega-3s. Experts point to dietary shifts since the 1950s, with ultra-processed foods and seed oils dominating modern diets, as a likely factor. While diet isn't the sole contributor, the findings emphasize the complex interplay of food, lifestyle, and genetics in cancer risk, advocating for moderation in omega-6 consumption pending further research. Ultraprocessed Foods High in Seed Oils Could Be Fueling Colon Cancer Risk | Scientific American.

Chasing Happiness

What can ancient philosophy teach us about a well lived life? Examining different schools of philosophical thought can teach us a lot about different ways to create happiness. The philosophy of happiness, explained in 10 minutes - Big Think.

Love Is a Marathon, Not a Sprint

Arthur C. Brooks explores the paradox of love and happiness, arguing that the exhilarating, passionate phase of romance—while thrilling—isn't what brings enduring joy. Instead, he highlights "companionate love," rooted in friendship, mutual understanding, and commitment, as the foundation of lasting happiness. Backed by research like the Harvard Study of Adult Development, Brooks demonstrates that stable relationships, especially those built on deep friendship, are the strongest predictors of lifelong contentment. With humor and personal anecdotes, he underscores that the secret to staying in love lies in simply liking your partner—your best friend. The Kind of Love That Makes People Happiest - The Atlantic.

+see also: This heartwarming video from Coldplay featuring Dick Van Dyke. All My Love Official Version, Director's Cut.

Press Paws

A recent study suggests that dogs may communicate intentionally by pressing buttons linked to words. Researchers found that some dogs form two- or three-word combinations, such as "want food," which appear deliberate rather than random. The study monitored button-pressing behaviors in over 150 dogs using soundboards, finding that dogs can express needs akin to a young child. However, skeptics argue the behavior could stem from training or reinforcement rather than true language understanding. While questions remain, the research highlights dogs' intelligence and their potential for deeper interaction with humans. Dogs may be able to communicate by pressing buttons, research suggests - The Washington Post (gift article).

Snooze You Can Use

Science-Backed Sleep Tips from 2024 to Help You Snooze Better | Scientific American explores 2024's popular sleep trends and their scientific validity. Highlights include the benefits of short naps for memory and mood and caution against "bed rotting," which disrupts circadian rhythms. TikTok's "sleepy girl mocktail" sheds light on magnesium's role in relaxation, while sleeping on the floor offers mixed results for back health. Sleep divorces—partners sleeping separately—can improve rest for mismatched sleepers. To combat election-induced insomnia, experts recommend unplugging, meditating, and reframing anxious thoughts with gratitude. These evidence-backed strategies aim to optimize sleep quality for a more restful 2025.

Artful Healing

Susan Magsamen's exploration of neuroaesthetics reveals the profound effects of art on mental health, trauma recovery, and cognitive disorders. This emerging field connects art, science, and well-being, showing how aesthetic experiences—from painting and dance to music—positively reshape our brains. Programs like Creative Forces empower trauma survivors, while dance improves cognition and mobility in Parkinson's patients. The arts, accessible to all, offer transformative benefits, reducing stress and fostering resilience. By embracing creativity, we can enhance our mental and physical health, proving that the arts are as essential as exercise or nutrition. 'Neuroaesthetics' Reveals How the Arts Help with Dementia and Trauma | Scientific American.

Neuroinflammation and Muscle Fatigue

Neuroinflammation, sparked by the brain's immune response to infections or chronic diseases like Long COVID and Alzheimer's, disrupts the brain-muscle connection, leading to muscle fatigue. This research uncovers how brain-released cytokines alter muscle energy production without damaging muscle structure. Studying fruit flies and mice, scientists identify a universal brain-to-muscle communication pathway that reallocates energy to combat infection. Potential treatments, such as neutralizing antibodies, aim to block this signaling. With further exploration, targeting this axis could alleviate fatigue in long COVID and other neuroinflammatory conditions, improving life for millions worldwide. Brain inflammation may be the reason behind muscle fatigue after infection and injury.

Mirror Cells: The Dark Reflection of Life

Scientists warn of the existential risks posed by "mirror cells," organisms built with reverse-handed DNA and proteins, defying the fundamental biology of Earth's life forms. These synthetic microbes, immune to natural defenses and capable of ecological devastation, could trigger pandemics or disrupt ecosystems if released. While promising medical advancements like long-acting drugs, their potential to bypass immune systems and evolve uncontrollably outweighs the benefits. Leading researchers advocate banning this technology, urging global dialogue to prevent catastrophic consequences before these innovations take root. A 'Second Tree of Life' Could Wreak Havoc, Scientists Warn - The New York Times (gift article).

+see also: one of the most memorable articles from Wired (from 25 years ago!)-Why the Future Doesn't Need Us | WIRED.

The Gut: The New Frontier of Mental Health Treatment

Emerging research highlights the potential of targeting gut cells, rather than brain cells, to treat depression and anxiety. Traditional SSRIs, while effective, often cause systemic side effects. Scientists have observed mood improvements in mice without the usual drawbacks by focusing on serotonin production in the intestines, unveiling the gut-brain connection's crucial role in emotional regulation. This novel approach may also address concerns about SSRI safety during pregnancy, offering a safer alternative for both mothers and babies. These findings could revolutionize mental health care by delivering effective relief without compromising physical well-being. Drugs targeting gut cells, not brain cells, fight depression better - Earth.com. (thanks, Amy!).

+see also: Gut Feelings: The Role of the Microbiome in Behavioral Health — HealthHippieMD.

109 - Lucid Dreams, Unpacking Chemicals, and Quelling Inflammation - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

Lucid Dreams, Lucid Schemes

Living In A Lucid Dream explores the phenomenon of lucid dreaming, blending personal experiences with scientific and philosophical perspectives. Lucid dreaming, a state where individuals are aware they’re dreaming and can sometimes control their actions, has intrigued thinkers from Aristotle to modern researchers. Evans dives into the history of dream studies, from Buddhist traditions to 20th-century breakthroughs in REM research, and contemplates the philosophical implications of dreams. While lucid dreaming offers exhilarating possibilities, it also raises questions about reality, consciousness, and the balance between control and the dream’s inherent mystery.

Old Phages, New Rages

Once sidelined by antibiotics, phage therapy is being reconsidered to combat antibiotic resistance. Researchers are exploring phages that target bacterial efflux pumps—key in antibiotic resistance—forcing bacteria into an evolutionary trap. If bacteria mutate to avoid phages, they lose antibiotic resistance, and vice versa. This “phage steering” has shown promise against multidrug-resistant bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii. However, challenges remain, including unpredictable results and safety concerns. Despite these hurdles, phage therapy could offer a vital tool in the fight against antibiotic-resistant infections. A Fix for Antibiotic Resistance Could Be Hiding in The Past - The Atlantic.

Brain Drain and COVID Strains

Did the Pandemic Break Our Brains? | TIME explores the cognitive impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, both from the virus itself and the related social and mental stress. Individuals report memory issues and cognitive slips, which researchers suggest may result from brain inflammation caused by SARS-CoV-2 or the trauma of pandemic life. Studies link COVID-19 to subtle IQ drops and brain fog, but stress and disrupted routines also play a role. While some effects may be reversible with time and brain-healthy habits, the road to full mental recovery is still being studied, offering cautious hope.

Inflammation’s Role in Disease

Emerging research reveals that inflammation may not only be a symptom but a driving factor behind numerous chronic diseases. While essential for healing and infection defense, persistent low-grade inflammation has been linked to conditions like heart disease, dementia, and even infertility. Drugs like GLP-1 agonists, such as Ozempic, promise to reduce this inflammation, offering potential benefits beyond weight loss. However, the complex balance between necessary immune responses and harmful chronic inflammation suggests that treatment must tread carefully to avoid unintended consequences. Opinion | Inflammation May Be the Root of Disease - The New York Times (gift article).

The Gut Benefits of Resistant Carbs

Resistant starch, found in foods like green bananas, raw potatoes, oats, certain nuts and seeds, beans, and legumes, resists digestion in the small intestine and ferments in the colon, feeding beneficial gut bacteria. This prebiotic powerhouse improves gut health, reduces inflammation, supports weight loss, and regulates blood sugar. Despite these benefits, most adults fall short of the recommended daily intake of 15 grams. Experts suggest incorporating more whole grains, legumes, and cooled starchy foods into your diet to harness the many health advantages of this underrated carbohydrate. Why this type of carb is so good for your gut health.

Douse Inflammation with Diet

Chronic inflammation can be mitigated through mindful eating. Foods rich in fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3s—like leafy greens, berries, legumes, and fatty fish—help combat inflammation. Spices such as turmeric and ginger and fermented foods and beverages like yogurt and kombucha offer additional benefits. A diverse diet featuring 30+ foods weekly, including coffee and tea, promotes better inflammation management. While no single food is a cure-all, a balanced diet remains vital to keeping inflammation at bay. The Foods That Fight Inflammation - The New York Times (gift article).

Why OpenAI’s o1 Model is a Game Changer

OpenAI’s new o1 model represents a significant leap in AI reasoning capabilities, focusing on advanced tasks like mathematics and coding rather than just language processing. Unlike its predecessor, GPT-4o, which struggled with reasoning-based challenges, o1 excels at “chain of thought” techniques, breaking down complex problems and learning from its mistakes. This model achieves high accuracy in competitive coding and math challenges, outperforming human experts and previous AI models. While its capabilities are exciting for research and STEM fields, the model’s steep price tag limits its accessibility. Why OpenAI’s new model is such a big deal | MIT Technology Review.

Life: A Problem-Solving Algorithm

Is life a complex computational process? | Aeon Essays explores whether life is a computational process rather than a purely chemical one. By drawing parallels between computation and biological adaptation, it argues that life emerges from problem-solving functions, much like a computer program. It explores three hypotheses—the Tron, Golem, and Maupertuis—each proposing that life can be simulated, synthesized, or follow deeper universal principles beyond chemistry. These perspectives challenge traditional views, suggesting life is not defined by specific materials but by its ability to solve problems and adapt to environments, much like a computational system.

Unpacking Chemicals in Our Food

A recent study highlights the alarming infiltration of over 3,000 chemicals from food packaging into our bodies. Everyday items, like plastic-wrapped meat or takeout containers, expose us to substances that may pose health risks. While the convenience of food packaging is undeniable, the study raises concerns about the cumulative impact these chemicals—such as PFAS and phthalates—could have over time. Researchers are urging for more transparency and better regulation to mitigate potential health risks from materials that come in contact with our food. Scientists just figured out how many chemicals enter our bodies from food packaging - The Washington Post (gift article).

086 - Emotional Choreography, Musical Flow States, and Brain Waves from the Grave - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

Sweet Relief

Honey, with its long-standing reputation as a natural remedy, is being explored for its potential to alleviate hay fever symptoms. Ancient civilizations utilized honey for medicinal purposes, and today, its anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties are of interest. Recent research suggests that honey could act as a form of immunotherapy, desensitizing the immune system to allergens and reducing allergic reactions. Studies have shown that consuming local honey daily can lead to significant improvements in hay fever symptoms. Honey's anti-inflammatory effects, antioxidants, and prebiotic characteristics may contribute to its therapeutic potential. However, not all honey is created equal, and its efficacy can vary depending on its source and processing. While honey shows promise, it should be used alongside conventional therapies and with caution, especially in children under one and individuals with severe allergies. The Truth About Honey And Hay Fever.

Emotional Choreography

The cerebellum, traditionally known for controlling movement, is revealing its deeper role in regulating emotions, social interactions, and complex behaviors. This "little brain" at the back of our heads contains a staggering three-quarters of all brain neurons, organized in a crystalline-like structure. Recent studies, presented at the Society for Neuroscience annual meeting, challenge the long-standing view of the cerebellum's limited function. Using advanced techniques, researchers are uncovering its involvement in maternal behavior, social recognition, and even autism, suggesting it acts as a hub for sensory input and higher cognitive functions. This shift in understanding highlights the cerebellum's integral role in both movement and mental processes, showcasing its significance beyond mere physical coordination. Scientists Are Unlocking the Secrets of Your ‘Little Brain’ | WIRED.

Garden Variety

In this comprehensive guide from The Washington Post, readers are introduced to the basics of starting a vegetable garden. The article emphasizes that anyone can grow vegetables, regardless of space, by selecting the right location, sourcing quality soil, and choosing appropriate plants. It highlights the importance of sunlight, proper drainage, and understanding your hardiness zone for planting. The piece advises starting with easy-to-grow vegetables and incorporating flowers and herbs for a diverse ecosystem. It also stresses the significance of having the right attitude, embracing experimentation, and learning from failures. Overall, the article provides practical tips and encouragement for budding gardeners looking to cultivate their own edible harvest. How to start a vegetable garden - The Washington Post (gift article).

Fortune's Folly

Big Think had an excellent video on the myth of the billionaire genius."wealth is not directly correlated with brain power. Thinking smarter and working harder does not always make you rich; most of the time, it’s just about being positioned at the luckiest spot on the bell curve." Debunking the ‘billionaire = genius’ myth - Big Think.

Jazzing Up the Brain

A study conducted by Drexel University's Creativity Research Lab reveals the neural underpinnings of achieving a state of "flow" in creativity, particularly among jazz musicians in the Philadelphia area. By examining the brain activity of 32 jazz guitarists through EEG scans while they improvised, researchers found that flow is associated with reduced activity in the frontal lobes, which are responsible for executive function and cognitive control. This suggests that letting go of conscious control is key to reaching this state. The study also showed that experienced musicians were more likely to achieve flow, indicating that a foundation of expertise is necessary before one can truly "just wail," as jazz legend Charlie Parker advised. These findings not only shed light on the neural mechanisms of flow but also suggest practical strategies for enhancing creative thinking. Brain scans of Philly jazz musicians reveal secrets to reaching creative flow.

Sleep

Up to 2/3 of adults will suffer from insomnia at some point in their life. The National Center for Integrative and Complementary Health has an excellent science-based overview of various interventions: [Mind and Body Practices for Sleep Disorders: What the Science Says | NCCIH.](https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/providers/digest/psychological-and-physical-approaches-for-sleep-disorders-science +see also Sleep Disorders – Common Types, Symptoms, Treatments | Sleep Foundation.

Brain Waves from the Grave

The new science of death: ‘There’s something happening in the brain that makes no sense’ explores the enigmatic phenomenon of heightened brain activity in individuals at the brink of death, challenging conventional understanding of the dying process. In particular, it delves into the case of "Patient One," whose brain exhibited remarkable electrical signals and connectivity even after life support was removed. This unexpected discovery, made by neurologist Jimo Borjigin and her team at the University of Michigan, suggests that the brain may enter a hyperactive state during the final moments of life, potentially giving rise to near-death experiences. The findings have profound implications for our comprehension of consciousness and the boundaries between life and death, propelling the scientific community towards new frontiers in the study of the dying brain and the possibility of reversing death itself.

Matrix of Productivity

The Eisenhower matrix, named after the 34th President of the United States, is a powerful tool for enhancing productivity by organizing tasks based on their urgency and importance. Although there's no evidence that Eisenhower himself used the matrix, its principles align with his famous saying, "What is important is seldom urgent and what is urgent is seldom important." The matrix divides tasks into four categories: do (urgent and important), decide (important but not urgent), delegate (urgent but not important), and delete (neither urgent nor important). By regularly revisiting and adjusting the matrix, individuals can maintain focus on their goals and values, ensuring that they invest their time in what truly matters. This method not only aids in managing day-to-day tasks but also helps in aligning efforts with long-term objectives, promoting a balanced and fulfilling life. Why the “Eisenhower matrix” is a fantastic productivity hack - Big Think.

A Nosh Above

Manischewitz, the 136-year-old kosher food brand, is spicing up its image with a vibrant rebrand aimed at attracting new customers and making kosher cuisine a culinary destination. The new packaging features tangerine hues, arched logos, and Hebrew-inspired accents. Shani Seidman, CMO of parent company Kayco, envisions broadening the brand's appeal beyond traditional consumers to those curious about diverse cuisines. The rebrand includes an expanded product range, from frozen matzoh balls to "Mani'z" snacks, and quirky merchandise like "Man I Shvitz" T-shirts. Despite the risks of alienating loyal customers, the move is seen as vital for the brand's long-term survival and relevance in a changing market. Manischewitz hopes its rebrand will make kosher food cool - The Washington Post (gift article).

034 - Social Anxiety, Beethoven's DNA, and Tattoos - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

New Year's Anti-Resolutions and To-Don't Lists

"when you don't know the right way forward, you might succeed by focusing on what you know to be wrong instead." I learned quite a bit from Your bad attitude can make you happier.

Galentine's Day-Dinner with Strangers

The Radical Act of Eating With Strangers was an interesting article about friendship and social connection. I wonder how it might work here in North Carolina. (I ran out of gift articles)

How to Combat Loneliness

An article from Harvard Health with suggestions to combat loneliness: 3 ways to create community and counter loneliness

Social Anxiety - Fear of Failing

What is the neuroscience behind social anxiety, an affliction that affects 40 million people in the U.S.? Fear of Failing: The Secrets Behind Social Anxiety

Steven Pinker Interview

Steven Pinker is an influential cognitive psychologist and author. In the interview, The ultimate guide to rationality, , he touches on "topics such as human progress, the tragedy of the commons, Bayesian reasoning, and strategies to curb our most destructive instincts, with the ultimate goal of improving the world for everyone."

Tattoos and Immunity

The skin is the body's first line of defense. For thousands of years, humans have been decorating their bodies with tattoos. Scientists still aren't sure what happens to our immune system when we receive one.Tattoos do odd things to the immune system

Foods that Fight Inflammation

Here is a brief but informative article from Harvard on anti-inflammatory foods: Foods that fight inflammation

GPT-4 AI Scores 85% on USMLE

Microsoft released a paper this week that showed that the latest GPT model could pass the USMLE: GPT-4 on Medical Challenge Problems - Microsoft Research. +Eric Topal breaks down the implications of AI for medicine: Multimodal AI for medicine, simplified - by Eric Topol

Intelligence and (un)Happiness

"Your intelligence is more likely to bring you happiness if you put it to use by chasing better ways to love and serve others rather than elbowing others aside and hoarding worldly rewards." Another interesting article in the Atlantic's How to Build a Life: Intelligence Is More Than a Tool to Get Ahead

Defining "Life" and "Death."

Technology forces us to reexamine what we consider alive and dead. The ideas are far-reaching, including law, medicine, ethics, and morality. Another thought-provoking article in Wired: The End of 'Life' As You Know It

Applying Scarcity to Gym Membership

Years ago, Robert Cialdini wrote a classic book on sales techniques: Influence, New and Expanded: The Psychology of Persuasion. The rise of pricey, application-only gyms is an exemplar of Cialdini's principles: The Rise of Exclusive, Application-Only Gym Memberships (gift article)

Animal Personality and Scientific Results

Here is an interesting article questioning whether animal personality might alter scientific results. Animal Personalities Can Trip Up Science, But There's a Solution

Cancer and Circadian Rhythm

A study published in Trends in Cell Biology reviewed the influence of circadian rhythms on cancer biology. "The circadian rhythm governs most of the cellular functions implicated in cancer progression, and its exploitation, therefore, opens new promising directions in the fight against metastasis. In this review, we summarize the role of the circadian rhythm in tumor development and progression, with emphasis on the circadian rhythm-regulated elements that control the generation of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and metastasis. We then present data on chronotherapy and discuss how circadian rhythm investigations may open new paths to more effective anticancer treatments." A new time dimension in the fight against metastasis

Beethoven's DNA

An article on how sleuths tracked down and analyzed strands of Beethoven's hair. The findings are fascinating: DNA From Beethoven's Hair Unlocks Medical and Family Secrets (gift article) and Beethoven's Genome Has Been Sequenced for the First Time, Revealing Clues About the Great Composer's Health & Family History

Meat Lobbies

Here is an article on how the meat industry changed the proposed recommendations of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report. I learned quite a bit from the article, including that the global beef industry is estimated at around $400 billion and that meat and dairy produce about 14.5% of global greenhouse emissions. The meat industry got the IPCC to edit a climate change report

Using Google Maps to Plan your Vacation

I'm going to try this: How To Use Google Maps Immersive View To Vacation Plan Like a Pro

Who is Most at Risk for Long-Covid?

A meta-analysis revealed the risk factors for long-covid: being female, obese, over 40, a smoker, and having previous medical conditions. Who Is Most At Risk for Long Covid? (gift article)