News

Recent research into the cerebral mechanics of fluid movement underscores the complexity of how cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) behaves within the brain, challenging our understanding of its role in neural maintenance and waste expulsion. The study spearheaded by teams at the Karolinska Institute and the famed Nedergaard lab has reignited debates within the scientific community, not merely about CSF function but also the purpose of sleep itself—a subject with significant implications for both the general populace and medical professionals in Thailand.

A recent study published in the journal Nature Metabolism has shed new light on how non-caloric sweeteners impact the brain’s regulation of appetite in individuals with varying body weights. The research, led by Sandhya P and her team, investigates the neurological effects of artificial sweeteners, which are often heralded as a calorie-free alternative to sugar. This study has significant implications for weight management strategies, particularly in contexts where obesity is a growing concern.

The global rise in mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, has sparked a critical conversation about the roots of this crisis. A recent piece by Patrick West at Spiked Online titled “How the age of emotion gave us the mental-health crisis” explores this phenomenon, arguing that societal changes and cultural shifts over the past decades have fundamentally altered how we perceive and address mental health.

West highlights a troubling stat from the Netherlands, where a staggering 60% increase in euthanasia cases tied to psychological suffering has been reported. This startling figure is emblematic of a broader crisis where mental anguish is driving individuals to extreme ends. In 2024, of the 10,000 Dutch patients who chose euthanasia, 10% did so due to mental distress. Such statistics underscore an escalating public health emergency that transcends borders.

A new health alert from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlights the rapid spread of Candida auris, a drug-resistant fungus increasingly found in hospitals and long-term care facilities in the United States. Health officials warn that C. auris is hard to treat and can cause severe infections, particularly among vulnerable patients.

Since its first identification in 2016, C. auris has grown from a handful of cases to thousands in 2023. The fungus is linked with high mortality, underscoring the need for strict infection control in healthcare settings.

A recent shift in protein consumption trends has highlighted a surprising disparity between young and older adults, prompting a closer examination of dietary habits in Thailand. The latest research reveals that while younger generations are embracing high-protein diets, older individuals often fall short of recommended levels, which may have significant health implications. This report delves into the research findings and explores what these trends mean for Thai society.

Protein, long revered for its role in muscle building and energy supply, is increasingly popular among young adults, with many using supplements and high-protein foods like cottage cheese, tofu, and protein bars. However, experts warn that older adults are consuming substantially less protein than needed. Studies from the University of Birmingham and the University of Sheffield emphasize that middle-aged and older adults require more protein to counteract the natural decline in muscle mass and the body’s reduced efficiency in synthesizing proteins, a condition known as anabolic resistance.

New findings in Nature Metabolism show that non-caloric sweeteners may influence appetite signals in the brain, and responses vary by body weight. This adds depth to the idea that sugar substitutes are not a universal fix for weight management or diet-related health issues.

The study matters for Thailand, where sweetened beverages and snacks are common. Many people use zero- or low-calorie sweeteners to cut calories, but brain responses to these substitutes appear different among lean, overweight, and obese individuals. Practically, this could mean varying feelings of hunger or fullness after consuming these products, depending on weight status.

A growing body of research highlights pentadecanoic acid (C15:0) as a potential contributor to healthier, longer lives. As anti-aging science gains traction globally, studies suggest C15:0 may boost cellular resilience and support healthy aging, with meaningful implications for Thailand’s aging population.

C15:0 is a saturated odd-chain fatty acid found in dairy fat and the meat of ruminant animals. While not widely known, accumulating evidence points to possible health benefits that could help reduce age-related risks. Early observations came from marine mammal studies, where higher C15:0 levels were linked to improvements in insulin, glucose, and cholesterol, prompting researchers to explore potential benefits for humans.

In the ever-evolving field of nutritional science, pentadecanoic acid (C15:0) is emerging as a “longevity nutrient” with the potential to play a significant role in promoting healthier, longer lives. As global interest in anti-aging compounds intensifies, recent studies have highlighted the potential of C15:0 to enhance cellular resilience and support healthy aging, aligning it with important anti-aging drugs like rapamycin and metformin. This discovery has piqued interest among researchers and could have profound implications for aging populations, including those in Thailand.

The recent measles outbreak affecting West Texas and New Mexico has taken an unexpected turn with several patients suffering from vitamin A toxicity, raising alarm over health misinformation. At Covenant Children’s Hospital in Lubbock—close to the outbreak’s center—some of the unvaccinated children hospitalized for measles exhibited signs of abnormal liver function, a likely indication of excessive vitamin A intake, explained Dr. Lara Johnson, pediatric hospitalist and chief medical officer for Covenant Health-Lubbock Service Area source.

In a surprising and controversial move, the U.S. federal government has appointed David Geier, a well-known vaccine skeptic, to lead a study examining the disproven link between vaccines and autism. This decision, revealed by the Washington Post, has sparked outcry from the scientific community, given Geier’s history of promoting discredited research in this arena.

This development is part of a broader narrative where public health agendas in the U.S. appear to be influenced by prominent anti-vaccine figures. David Geier, in collaboration with his father, Mark Geier, has consistently advocated against vaccinations. Their research, often dismissed by the scientific community for its methodological shortcomings, focuses on purported dangers of vaccines, specifically mercury-based ingredients, which they claim are linked to autism—a claim that has been thoroughly debunked by numerous scientific studies over the years. Despite the widespread scientific consensus, their studies still hold sway among certain anti-vaccine circles, particularly those led by figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who now oversees health initiatives.

In recent years, creatine has gained attention beyond the typical weightlifting community, now attracting interest from women, particularly those in midlife, looking for its manifold benefits. Traditionally known for its muscle-enhancing properties, creatine supplementation is now being explored for its cognitive and overall health benefits, making it a potentially valuable addition for Thai women navigating the complexities of aging.

Creatine, a compound naturally produced in the body, plays a crucial role in creating ATP, the primary energy molecule utilized by muscle and brain tissues. While the body synthesizes creatine, the amount is often insufficient for individuals engaging in rigorous physical activity or experiencing age-related muscle decline. Thus, many are turning to supplements to bridge this gap, especially as creatine is mainly found in animal products like red meat, which may not be consumed in sufficient quantities to harness its full benefits. Recent research supports creatine’s ability to enhance muscle mass by allowing individuals to exert more energy during physical activities, thereby promoting better muscle growth and faster recovery. However, the benefits of creatine extend beyond the gym.

Creatine is gaining attention among midlife women in Thailand who want to protect muscle, support brain function, and enhance overall health. Once primarily associated with athletic performance, creatine is now being explored for cognitive support, energy production, and age-related changes, making it a relevant option for Thai readers navigating midlife.

Creatine is a naturally occurring compound that helps produce ATP, the energy currency used by muscles and the brain. The body makes some creatine, but amounts may be low for those who exercise regularly or experience age-related muscle loss. Many people turn to supplements, particularly when dietary intake from animal products like red meat is limited. Studies indicate creatine can boost muscle strength and recovery, enabling longer activity with less fatigue. Its benefits also extend beyond physical performance.

A high-stakes policy shift in the United States has sparked global scrutiny about scientific integrity and public trust. A new senior data analyst role and a controversial leadership choice for an autism study have drawn sharp questions from researchers about the credibility of the project. The move has stirred concern that leadership decisions may influence the direction and reliability of the research.

Data from reputable institutions indicates growing concern when policymakers elevate voices outside mainstream scientific consensus. The project’s transition between federal agencies highlights a broader debate over how public health agendas are shaped and who guides them. Critics note the appointment comes amid ongoing disputes surrounding researchers who have challenged vaccine safety, using methods that many scientists label flawed. The central claim—that vaccines cause autism—has been extensively studied and not supported by robust evidence. Yet, anti-vaccine networks continue to promote these claims, complicating public understanding.

A new study reveals how young zebra finches gauge their singing through dopamine, a key brain chemical. Researchers at Duke University conducted the work, published in Nature, and it offers clues about how learning happens in both birds and humans. The findings highlight how neurochemistry shapes effort and motivation during skill development.

For Thai readers, the takeaway goes beyond bird education. The research suggests learning thrives on internal motivation rather than external rewards. Just as a Thai child practices pronunciation by repeating words, the birds refine their songs through sustained practice guided by their own brain chemistry. Dopamine rises with each practice attempt, independent of how perfect the note turns out, pointing to motivation as a driver of learning.

Recent research has unveiled fascinating insights into how young zebra finches self-evaluate their singing efforts through dopamine, a key brain chemical. Conducted by a team at Duke University and published in Nature, the study explores the neurochemical underpinnings of learning in juvenile birds, offering broader implications for understanding human motor skills and neurological functions (source).

For Thai readers, the significance of this research lies not only in the biological curiosity of how birds learn but also in the cross-species insights into learning mechanisms that could influence educational strategies and treatment approaches for neurological conditions. Similar to how a Thai child might learn by repeatedly practicing pronouncing new words, these birds refine their songs through iterative practice and intrinsic feedback, tracked by dopamine fluctuations.

The spread of the drug-resistant fungus Candida auris has prompted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to classify it as an “urgent antimicrobial resistance threat,” according to a recent hospital study. Identified in the U.S. in 2016 and rapidly escalating since, the fungus has been spreading in Georgia and within Miami’s Jackson Health System, raising significant concerns. It is known to predominantly affect vulnerable patients in healthcare settings, especially those using medical devices like catheters or breathing tubes, as the pathogen can enter the body through these devices.

A groundbreaking study from Yale University reveals that infants can form and encode memories earlier than previously thought. Using advanced imaging, researchers found that even before speaking, babies show memory-related brain activity when viewing familiar images. Published in Science, the work challenges the long-held belief that infant memories are inaccessible due to a still-developing hippocampus. For Thai educators and parents, the finding underscores how early experiences can shape learning trajectories.

A wave of public-sector layoffs in the United States has sparked a notable rise in mental health challenges among affected workers. The abrupt terminations disrupt daily life, strain families, and fuel anxiety about the future. For Thai readers, the issue highlights why public-sector job security matters for well-being, especially as governments review workforce needs.

First-hand accounts from federal employees—shared by a health agency staff member among them—underscore the emotional toll of sudden layoffs. Many describe devastation after losing livelihoods without clear justification. Mental health professionals report rising demand for counseling and psychiatric care as job cuts continue. The situation shows how employment instability can strain communities nationwide.

Dean Sturridge, a name once synonymous with football prowess and a record goal tally at Derby County, has opened up about a personal struggle that lurked in the shadows for over four decades—a gambling addiction. In his candid revelation, Sturridge shares his journey from a life overshadowed by gambling to now living in recovery, aiming to shine a light on the hidden consequences many still endure in silence. His story emerges as an eye-opener about the unseen battles athletes face, often amidst the pressures of fame and fortune.

The recent mass firings of federal employees in the United States, instigated by the Trump administration, have ignited a surge of mental health crises among the affected individuals. The abrupt job losses are not only upending the lives of these workers but also reverberating through their families and communities. Many are facing severe emotional distress, anxiety, and depression as they grapple with the uncertainty of their futures. This issue holds significant relevance for Thai readers, considering similar socio-political scenarios that could impact mental health when governmental job security is threatened.

A former Premier League striker, Dean Sturridge, has spoken publicly about a four-decade gambling battle. The disclosure aims to reveal the hidden struggles athletes face beyond fame and fortune and to push for greater awareness and support.

Now 51 and working as a football agent, Sturridge says he has not bet in more than five years. He decided to share his story to help current and future players and to deepen public understanding of gambling’s impact. He describes gambling as a form of escapism that offered brief relief from the pressures of professional sport, team selection, and management tensions.

A major study tracked over 30 years and more than 100,000 American adults to understand how long-term eating patterns influence healthy aging. The research followed participants until age 70, examining who remained free from chronic disease and who maintained cognitive and physical function.

Findings indicate that diets such as the Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI), the Mediterranean Diet (aMED), and the DASH plan significantly improve the odds of aging healthily. These patterns emphasize fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and healthy fats while reducing trans fats, salt, and processed meats. Notably, those with the highest AHEI adherence showed about 86% greater odds of aging healthily by 70 compared with those with the lowest adherence.

A new study reveals distinctive features in human brain connectivity that set us apart from our closest primate relatives. Researchers, including senior neuroscientists and a leading postdoctoral researcher, used MRI data to compare humans with chimpanzees and macaques. The work, summarized for a science news audience, highlights how specific neural connections may underpin advanced cognition and social behavior.

For Thai readers, the findings offer fresh perspectives on how thinking, communication, and social interaction emerge from brain networks. By leveraging advanced imaging, the research moves beyond simple comparisons of brain size and dives into the architecture of internal connections that shape everyday abilities. The results suggest that differences in the temporal lobe, rather than only the prefrontal region, play a major role in what makes human cognition unique.

A measles outbreak across West Texas and parts of New Mexico has raised concerns beyond the virus itself. At a major pediatric hospital in Lubbock, clinicians report abnormal liver function in unvaccinated children treated for measles, prompting questions about vitamin A. Authorities caution against unverified health tips circulating online.

Experts warn that false claims about vitamin A preventing measles have circulated widely, fueling confusion among families. Public health leaders reiterate that vaccination remains the strongest, evidence-based defense. Two doses of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine are about 97% effective, making immunization the most reliable protection. Supplements cannot substitute proven vaccination.