Latest from Alalam24
Alalam24
9 hours ago
- Health
- Alalam24
A Single Dose Could Reshape Immunity Against the Deadliest Viruses
A team of researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and the Scripps Research Institute has developed a groundbreaking method to enhance the immune response against HIV using just a single vaccine dose, by combining two powerful immune-boosting agents. In experiments conducted on mice, results showed that the combination of traditional 'alum' and a new immune adjuvant called SMNP led to the production of more diverse and larger quantities of antibodies, compared to using the vaccine alone or with just one adjuvant. This development not only opens promising avenues for HIV prevention, but could also accelerate the creation of effective single-dose vaccines for other infectious diseases such as COVID-19 and influenza. The researchers based their study on a modified HIV protein known as MD39, used as an antigen attached to alum particles with the addition of SMNP. Following vaccination, the team observed that this combination remained stable in lymph nodes for up to a month, giving the immune system more time to build a strong and targeted response. Professor J. Christopher Love, one of the lead researchers, explained: 'This method mimics what happens during natural infection, where the antigen remains in the body for a long time, giving immune cells the opportunity to strengthen their defenses.' By analyzing B cells in the mice, researchers found that the enhanced vaccine produced a broader and greater quantity of antibodies, increasing the likelihood of generating 'broadly neutralizing' antibodies capable of targeting multiple strains of HIV. Love added: 'The more opportunities we give the immune system to explore different options, the higher the chances of producing effective antibodies against a wider range of viruses.' The study, published in Science Translational Medicine, suggests that the approach can be applied to protein-based vaccines for various diseases. Additionally, the components used are already familiar to health authorities, which could speed up regulatory approval. Love concluded: 'The true strength of this approach lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. It doesn't require new technologies, just a smarter use of existing tools to develop stronger, faster vaccines.' The research was supported by the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Koch Institute, the Ragon Institute, and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute.
Alalam24
a day ago
- Health
- Alalam24
Dark Consequences Await After Just Three Nights of Sleep Deprivation
A recent study conducted at Uppsala University in Sweden has revealed that reducing sleep to only four hours per night for three consecutive nights can lead to changes in blood composition linked to an increased risk of heart disease. The study involved 16 healthy young men who participated in two different protocols within a controlled laboratory setting, where their diet, physical activity, and light exposure were strictly regulated. In the first protocol, participants slept for 8.5 hours per night over three nights. In the second, their sleep was restricted to 4.25 hours for the same period. After each phase, the participants performed high-intensity exercise on a stationary bike, and blood samples were taken before and after the workout. Researchers analyzed around 90 types of proteins in the blood and observed a significant increase in inflammatory markers associated with heart disease following the sleep-restricted phase. The study focused on inflammatory proteins that the body produces in response to stress or illness. Persistently high levels of these proteins can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of health issues such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, and arrhythmias. The study also found that the body's usual healthy response to exercise—such as the rise in beneficial proteins like interleukin-6 and BDNF, which support brain and heart function—was significantly weakened after poor sleep. What's particularly alarming is that these changes were observed in healthy young adults after only a short period of disrupted sleep. The researchers noted this as concerning, especially given the widespread prevalence of sleep disorders—affecting about one in four shift workers who experience circadian rhythm disruption. The study also pointed out that the timing of blood sample collection influenced protein levels, which varied between morning and evening. This variation was more pronounced after sleep restriction, suggesting that sleep affects not only blood composition but also the timing of biological changes. In today's fast-paced lifestyle, where sleep is often sacrificed for work, social life, or entertainment, this study highlights a sobering truth: our bodies keep a precise record of these sacrifices—and the toll they take on our health.
Alalam24
3 days ago
- Health
- Alalam24
Your Smile Is Your Charm… Natural and Homemade Remedies to Restore the Brightness of Your Teeth Safely
A radiant smile is more than just aesthetics—it reflects a healthy lifestyle and attention to detail. However, aging, excessive consumption of coffee or tea, smoking, and even minor neglect in daily oral hygiene can dull your teeth's natural shine and lead to unsightly yellowing. While rapid whitening treatments are available in clinics, they aren't always accessible to everyone. Fortunately, effective and safe natural alternatives found in almost every home can help restore your teeth's brightness without side effects or high costs. Activated Charcoal: Your Ally Against Stubborn Stains Activated charcoal is one of the most powerful natural cleansers, known for absorbing stains and toxins from the surface of the teeth. Simply wet your toothbrush, dip it in a small amount of charcoal powder, and gently brush for two minutes. Rinse thoroughly and follow with your usual toothpaste. Use only once a week to avoid gum sensitivity or enamel erosion. Coconut Oil: An Ayurvedic Remedy for a Healthy Smile This ancient Ayurvedic practice involves swishing coconut oil in the mouth to eliminate bacteria, remove toxins, and enhance both teeth whiteness and breath freshness. One tablespoon of oil each morning, swished for 10 to 15 minutes, can yield visible results within two weeks. Strawberry and Baking Soda: A Gentle Peel for Stains Strawberries contain a natural acid that helps break down stains, while baking soda provides a mild whitening effect. Mash one strawberry with a pinch of baking soda and apply the mixture to your teeth for one minute. Repeat once or twice a week only. Baking Soda and Lemon Juice: Fast Results, but Use Cautiously This recipe is effective thanks to the citric acid in lemon, but it must be used sparingly. Mix half a teaspoon of baking soda with a few drops of lemon juice, brush your teeth gently for one minute, then rinse well. Do not use more than twice a week. Diluted Apple Cider Vinegar: Whitening and Antibacterial Apple cider vinegar helps dissolve residue and combat plaque. However, it's potent and must be diluted. Mix one teaspoon in a glass of warm water and use as a mouthwash for just 30 seconds, then rinse thoroughly. Use no more than once or twice a week. Tips to Maintain Your Smile After Whitening: Cut back on stain-causing drinks like coffee, tea, and sodas. Rinse your mouth after every meal to protect enamel. Use a gentle toothpaste with natural whitening ingredients. Completely avoid smoking—it's the number one enemy of white teeth. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles. Eat more calcium-rich foods and raw vegetables. Don't overuse home remedies, even if they're natural. Visit your dentist twice a year for preventive cleaning and oral health check-ups. Your smile is your signature… Give it the care it deserves.
Alalam24
3 days ago
- Health
- Alalam24
How to Protect Yourself from Summer Heat During Pregnancy
Being pregnant during the summer months can be a real challenge. High temperatures and humidity can intensify fatigue, swelling, and discomfort. While doctors understand the difficulties faced by women expecting in the summer or early fall, there are simple steps you can take to stay active, cool, and comfortable. During pregnancy, your body temperature naturally rises, making you more sensitive to hot weather. It's recommended to avoid going out when the heat index is high — especially when it exceeds 90°F (32°C) — and to stay in air-conditioned places whenever possible. To cool down quickly, you can apply a cold towel to your neck or forehead. Staying hydrated is extremely important to replace the fluids lost through sweating. Water is the best choice, but natural juices or drinks rich in electrolytes can also be beneficial. However, it's important not to overdo water intake, as excessive hydration can disturb your body's salt balance, potentially leading to cramps or, in rare cases, fainting. Swimming is one of the best activities for pregnant women during the summer. It helps cool the body and relieves nerve pressure, especially on the sciatic nerve. Wearing loose, breathable clothing is advised to prevent heat rashes, which can appear under the breasts or belly. Carrying a small water spray bottle can help keep your skin refreshed during critical moments. It's also better to do any physical activity early in the morning or in the evening when temperatures are lower. Always consult your doctor before starting a new exercise routine, especially if you have respiratory issues or chronic health conditions. Avoid direct sunlight during peak hours, and always use a high-SPF sunscreen — pregnancy can make your skin more sensitive to UV rays, increasing the risk of developing 'pregnancy mask.' If you experience unusual signs like dizziness or extreme thirst, go immediately to a cool place, rest, and drink water or an electrolyte solution. Swollen Legs: What's the Solution? Swelling in the feet and legs is common during pregnancy and becomes more noticeable in the summer. To manage it, try lying down for at least 30 minutes a day and elevate your feet while sleeping by placing a small blanket under the mattress. Comfortable footwear is a must — sometimes even a size larger than usual. Avoid standing for long periods or wearing tight clothing. Try to reduce your salt intake without cutting it out completely, as iodine is essential in a pregnant woman's diet. Avoid using diuretics unless prescribed by a doctor, as they can disrupt the vital salt balance necessary for the baby's development.
Alalam24
12-06-2025
- Health
- Alalam24
What Your First Experience of Motherhood Doesn't Tell You
From the very first moment a mother brings her child into the world, a wave of emotions washes over her, accompanied by a deep sense of responsibility. She throws herself wholeheartedly into caregiving and affection. Among these responsibilities, breastfeeding stands out as a uniquely human and emotional experience—one that many mothers expect to unfold naturally and instinctively. But reality can be surprising: some mothers find that milk production doesn't go as smoothly as expected and may even drop suddenly, causing significant concern and, at times, psychological stress that worsens the situation. Dr. Nihad Maghawry, a professor of gynecology and obstetrics, explains that milk production is not an automatic process. It is governed by complex factors involving hormones, feeding frequency, and the mother's physical and psychological state. A reduction in feedings, especially in the first days after childbirth, can signal to the body that milk is not needed, leading to a gradual decline in production. The early introduction of formula, without medical necessity, can also reduce breast stimulation, directly affecting the amount of milk produced. Moreover, a cesarean section or health complications can delay or weaken milk flow, especially when certain medications are involved. Mental fatigue or postpartum depression can seriously impact not only the quantity of milk but also its release. Stress, in particular, hinders the secretion of oxytocin—the hormone responsible for moving milk from the glands to the nipple—making some mothers feel as though their breasts are 'dry,' even when they are actually full. To overcome these challenges, experts recommend continuing to breastfeed regularly, even if milk flow seems limited, since a baby's sucking stimulates the brain to produce more milk. In cases of low supply, using a breast pump after each feeding can help activate the milk glands. It is also essential for mothers to eat well, stay hydrated, get adequate sleep, and maintain emotional stability, as lack of rest can gradually diminish milk production. Simple actions such as a warm shower or breast massage can also help stimulate milk flow. It's important for mothers to understand that what they're experiencing is neither a failure nor their fault, but rather a common and normal situation in many cases. If the problem persists and is accompanied by signs like insufficient weight gain in the baby or fewer wet diapers, it is advisable to consult a doctor or lactation specialist. Breastfeeding is not merely a biological function—it is a holistic experience that requires balance between the body and emotions. With awareness, support, and perseverance, it is possible to overcome moments of doubt and transform them into enriching and successful experiences.
