Microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) from the breakdown of plastic materials pollute the environment and make their way into the human body, raising concerns over potential health impacts. Research shows that microplastics and nanoplastics are able to cross the blood-brain barrier in mice within 2 hours of ingestion. Key Facts: Polystyrene nanoparticles with a size of …
The phenomenon of binaural beats and their proposed ability to synchronize brainwave frequencies through a process called brainwave entrainment (BWE) has intrigued neuroscientists and the public for decades. However, the empirical evidence for BWE remains inconclusive. A recent systematic review evaluated 14 studies on binaural beats and EEG markers of brainwave entrainment, finding mixed results …
Fetzima (Levomilnacipran) is a medication prescribed for the treatment of major depressive disorder in adults. Although it is similar to the drug Savella (Milnacipran), Fetzima exhibits unique pharmacodynamics in that it functions as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) with a 2-fold affinity for norepinephrine reuptake inhibition – relative to serotonin reuptake inhibition. In other words, …
A Daith piercing is a specific type of ear piercing in which the ear’s innermost cartilage fold (i.e. the crus of helix) is penetrated and pierced with a specialized curved needle. According to experts, for a piercing to qualify as a legitimate “Daith piercing” – it must be performed such that the bottom part of …
Alpha lipoic acid (ALA), also known as thioctic acid, is an eight-carbon organosulfur compound derived from caprylic acid (octenoic acid). It is widely understood that alpha lipoic acid is manufactured endogenously within the human body and that its presence is essential for aerobic metabolism, or the means by which the body generates energy via breakdown …
Oolong tea is a traditional Chinese tea that remains popular throughout south China and Southeast Asia wherein it is referred to as “qingcha” or dark green tea. When translated from Chinese to English, the term “oolong tea” roughly means “black dragon tea.” Similar to both green and black tea, oolong tea is a product created …
Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic medication prescribed for the treatment of hypertension and edema (fluid accumulation and retention in bodily tissues) resulting from various medical conditions and prescription medications (e.g. corticosteroids). Other medical conditions for which hydrochlorothiazide is sometimes prescribed to treat include: congestive heart failure, diabetes insipidus, renal tubular acidosis, and kidney stones (as a …