Author: Saba Kash

Colour blindness, primarily affecting men, is a fascinating genetic phenomenon. This condition, where individuals struggle to differentiate certain colours, is significantly more common in males than females. The root of this disparity lies in the genetic makeup of X and Y chromosomes. Colour Blindness Prevalence: A Gendered Perspective Moving forward, let’s examine the prevalence of colour blindness across genders, a key area where the genetics manifest distinctly. Studies show a clear disparity in the occurrence of colour blindness between men and women. A comprehensive study reported in the ‘Egyptian Journal of Medical Human Genetics’ provides concrete statistics in this regard.…

Discover how the National University of Singapore’s groundbreaking study revolutionises the treatment of pneumonia in ICU patients, showing that shorter courses of antibiotics are equally effective. Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a significant concern in intensive care units (ICUs), often necessitating prolonged antibiotic treatments. Challenging this standard practice, the National University of Singapore (NUS) conducted the “REducinG Antibiotic tReatment Duration for Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia” (REGARD-VAP) trial. This landmark study introduces a pivotal change in treating ICU pneumonia, suggesting that shorter antibiotic courses, tailored to individual patient responses, could be just as effective as the traditionally longer treatments. Trial Overview This randomised controlled…

The scent of a newborn baby is a topic that has long intrigued both parents and researchers.  This distinctive aroma is not just a source of fascination but also plays a crucial role in the bonding process between a parent and their child. Biological Origins of Newborn Scent The vernix caseosa, a waxy substance on a newborn’s skin, intricately connects to their unique scent. Composed mainly of water (about 80.5%), lipids, and proteins, this substance plays a vital role in preserving the baby’s skin moisture and acting as a protective barrier. The vernix caseosa’s high water content is mainly confined…

Fish Oil: A Secret Weapon Against Ageing Eyes? Did you know that the fish oil in your kitchen cupboard might be more than just a health supplement? Studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids, abundant in fish oil, could be a game-changer in protecting against age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD is a leading cause of vision impairment among older adults.  Unveiling the Connection: Omega-3s and AMD The connection between omega-3 fatty acids and AMD, while complex, has shown potential benefits. Several studies have explored the impact of omega-3s on AMD, with varying results. Some studies indicate that the effect of omega-3…

A Growing Concern: The Rise of Loneliness Among Gen Z Recent studies have pointed to a troubling trend: Generation Z, those born between the late 1990s and early 2010s, are grappling with higher levels of loneliness than any previous generation. This widespread phenomenon has garnered significant attention from mental health professionals, sociologists, and educators worldwide. Factors Contributing to Gen Z’s Isolation Several key factors contribute to the heightened sense of loneliness among Gen Z individuals. Foremost is the digital age’s influence: while technology fosters constant connectivity, it often lacks the depth and quality of face-to-face interactions.  Social media platforms, hubs…

Bilingualism, the ability to fluently speak two or more languages, is not just a linguistic skill.  It significantly influences brain function and structure, leading to a unique cognitive profile. This article delves into how bilingualism reshapes the brain, exploring its impact from a neuroscientific perspective. The Neurological Impact of Bilingualism Research has consistently shown that bilingual individuals exhibit differences in brain structure when compared to monolinguals. These differences are particularly noticeable in areas associated with language processing and executive functions. Bilingualism enhances cognitive flexibility, problem-solving skills, and multitasking abilities. The structural differences in bilingual brains are supported by scientific studies.…

In a significant health advisory, South Korea’s food ministry warns against the consumption of fried starch toothpicks, a recent viral trend on social media.  These items, resembling curly fries, are raising safety concerns due to their unconventional use as food. Rise of a Novel Culinary Fad on Social Media Recent trends on social media platforms, particularly TikTok and Instagram, have seen the emergence of fried starch toothpicks as a novel culinary fad.  Originating in South Korea, restaurants typically use toothpicks made from biodegradable materials like sweet potato or corn starch for handling finger foods. Their transformation into a deep-fried snack,…

Singapore is witnessing a worrying trend in, with dengue cases escalating for the seventh consecutive week.  The National Environment Agency’s (NEA) recent report indicates a notable increase in infections, with 410 new cases recorded in the last week. This surge highlights the urgent need for heightened community awareness and proactive measures to mitigate the spread of this mosquito-borne disease. Seventh Week of Escalating Dengue Cases: Analysing the Trend As Singapore enters its seventh consecutive week of escalating dengue cases, a deeper analysis into the trend reveals critical insights. The steady increase, culminating in 410 new cases in the most recent…

Revolutionising Alzheimer’s Diagnosis: Pioneering Blood Test Detects Disease Earlier Than Ever In a significant stride towards advancing Alzheimer’s disease diagnostics, the latest research has validated an innovative blood test. This blood testdetects phosphorylated tau 217 (p-tau217), a key biomarker in Alzheimer’s. This development heralds a transformative approach in identifying the disease, offering a non-invasive, accessible alternative to conventional diagnostic methods. The Paradigm Shift in Alzheimer’s Testing Moving away from traditional, invasive diagnostic methods, the p-tau217 blood test represents a paradigm shift in Alzheimer’s testing. Its ability to detect Alzheimer’s-related changes with high accuracy, even in the pre-symptomatic stages, is a…

Understanding Multivitamins: What Are They? Multivitamins are dietary supplements comprising various vitamins, minerals, and sometimes other ingredients like herbs and amino acids. They are formulated to supplement a person’s diet and provide essential nutrients that may be lacking.  These supplements are available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and gummies, and are designed for convenience and ease of use. The role of multivitamins is particularly significant for individuals who might have nutritional deficiencies due to various factors such as poor diet, certain health conditions, or specific lifestyle choices​. The Composition and Benefits of Multivitamins Multivitamins are typically composed of a…