Fresh Science Trends

Intrauterine devices ( IUDs ) are small T-shaped devices inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy , working primarily by creating a hostile environment for sperm and eggs. They come in two main types: copper IUDs , which release copper ions to immobilize sperm , and hormonal IUDs , which release progestin to thicken cervical mucus .      Copper IUD Mechanism Copper IUDs trigger inflammation in the uterine lining, producing substances toxic to sperm and reducing their ability to fertilize an egg.  The substances refer to specific biochemical agents released in uterine and genital tract fluids due to IUD-induced inflammation, acting as natural spermicides and embryo-toxins. These include white blood cells (leukocytes), prostaglandins, cytokines, and copper ions (in non-hormonal IUDs), which impair sperm motility, capacitation, and survival.  The copper ions enhance this spermicidal effect, making it harder for sperm to survive or move through the reproducti...

Surgical methods of contraception offer a permanent , highly effective way to prevent pregnancy for individuals or couples who are sure their families are complete. The two key procedures are vasectomy for males and tubal ligation (tubectomy) for females , each working by safely blocking the path of sperm or egg so fertilization cannot occur while leaving sexual function and hormones largely unaffected. The videos below provide a simple visual walk‑through of how these procedures are done, what happens inside the reproductive tract, and why they are considered more than 99% effective as long‑term birth control options . Vasectomy Tubectomy

In 2025 , the world’s population is unevenly concentrated in a small group of highly populous countries, with India and China together accounting for more than one‑third of all people on Earth. Using the latest estimates of total population by country, this post presents an up‑to‑date list of every nation in the world by population, helping you quickly see which countries are growing, which are stabilizing, and how regional demographic patterns are shifting. From the dominance of Asia to the rapid rise of African nations like Nigeria and Ethiopia, these numbers provide essential context for understanding future trends in economics, migration, urbanization, and sustainability. The table provides a clear, rank‑wise list of all countries in the world by their estimated total population in 2025, allowing quick comparison of how people are distributed across nations. Source: Worldometer ( www.worldometers.info ) Elaboration of data by United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affai...

Your memories aren't dusty old files—they're living stories your brain rewrites every time you revisit them. Episodic memory retrieval involves the reactivation of the cognitive and neural processes which were active when the event was initially experienced. Credit: Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2025.106417 Why Memories Shift A groundbreaking University of East Anglia study uncovers how episodic memories, like that unforgettable birthday bash or family vacation, aren't static snapshots. Instead, they're dynamic networks of active details (easy to recall) and hidden traces that spring alive with the right trigger. Lead researcher Prof. Louis Renoult reveals these memories must trace back to real past events, but recall blends in imagination, general knowledge, or your current mood, making each version slightly different. The Brain's Rewriting Magic Deep in the hippocampus, memories form as dormant traces waiting for cues—li...

Author: Anneswa Das Olfactory dysfunction (OD) means reduced or decreased smell sensation. Also it is most recognized symptoms of COVID‐19. There's a term called "long COVID". In May 2020, Dr. Elisa Perego used the term "#LongCovid" on twitter to describe the symptoms that stayed with her even after she recovered from the main COVID-19 infection. Many other people who felt the same way started using the term too. It became common in online support groups before doctors and researchers began using it in medical studies. So in a simple way, Long COVID refers to a range of symptoms that continue for weeks, months, or even years after the initial COVID-19 infection has resolved. Recovery isn’t always recovery. Long COVID can steal the sense of smell, turning flowers into silence Photo by Alexander Grey on Unsplash Losing the sense of smell or taste has become one of the symptoms people most commonly associated with COVID-19. In the early days of the pandemic, nea...

The rise of weight-loss medications like Wegovy, Ozempic, and tirzepatide has completely changed the conversation around obesity . Once considered a problem of “willpower,” obesity is now recognized as a complex disease —and these drugs are giving patients new hope. But along with promise come serious challenges . The modern weight-loss journey: where science meets lifestyle — but no single pill or plate holds all the answers. Photo by Elena Leya on Unsplash 1. The Surge in Popularity Patient demand is exploding: In a 2023 survey of 346 healthcare professionals (Sermo), 89% saw more patients asking for weight-loss prescriptions. 92% of primary care physicians (PCPs) reported prescribing them. Prescription trends: Wegovy prescriptions in the U.S. jumped from 83,200 in January 2023 to 598,100 in May , before dipping when supplies ran short. Celebrity buzz: Public figures like Oprah Winfrey and Elon Musk have admitted using these medications, fueling curiosity a...

Even with a normal BMI, your arteries might be at risk. A major McMaster University study reveals that unseen fat deep in the abdomen and liver can silently harm arteries, increasing your risk of heart attacks and strokes. The study, analyzing MRI scans from over 33,000 adults, found that “hidden fat” has a dangerous impact—even when cholesterol and blood pressure seem normal. Even a strong heartbeat can conceal silent battles within. Photo by Alexandru Acea on Unsplash So, what can you do? Embrace a balanced, minimally processed diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats. Get moving every day—regular aerobic activity and strength training help combat unseen fat. Prioritize sleep and manage stress, both of which influence how fat is stored. Don’t rely only on BMI—discuss comprehensive health checks with your doctor, including possible imaging if you’re at risk. True wellness lies beneath the surface—fight hidden fat with healthy habits, not just the scale.

Everyone loves a good night’s sleep, but did you know that poor sleep may actually make your brain age faster? Groundbreaking research involving tens of thousands of people shows a clear link between sleep quality and how old your brain looks and functions. This blog breaks down the science in simple terms and shares why improving your sleep might be the best gift you can give your brain. Poor sleep illustration via p hoto by Greta Bartolini on Unsplash What Did the Research Find? Researchers studied  over 27,000 adults  using advanced MRI scans to estimate their “brain age,” or how old their brain appears compared to their actual age. They found that people with  poor sleep habits had brains that looked about one year older  than their chronological age —a big deal when it comes to brain health. Even those with  intermediate sleep problems showed noticeable brain aging , proving that sleep quality matters a lot . What Counts As Poor Sleep? Poor sleep was measu...