In 2023, Science Times showcased a myriad of extraordinary breakthroughs and compelling stories in health and medicine that have captivated global attention. Below are the top 10 breakthroughs and discoveries in healthcare this year:
Neurons More Powerful in Computing Than Once Thought
Neurologists studying epileptic patients discovered that individual cells in the cortex use not only sodium but also calcium ions to generate waves of voltage, termed calcium-mediated dendritic action potentials.
This new insight challenges traditional views and suggests neurons can function as exclusive OR intersections, offering potential advancements in understanding the brain's computational processes.
World's Most Pierced Woman
The world's most pierced woman, Elaine Davidson, with over 15,000 piercings, aims for 20,000, including 3,500 inside her vagina, done in the U.S. due to restrictions in the UK. Despite the weight and potential for infections, Davidson, who holds a Guinness World Record, expressed her passion for body piercing.
$3 Pill for Epilepsy Switched Off Autism in Mice
Germany's Hector Institute for Translational Brain Research shared that a $3-per-pill epilepsy drug, lamotrigine, has shown promise in "switching off" autism symptoms in mice. The drug, known as Lamictal, has been found to alleviate behavioral and social problems associated with autism by reversing changes to brain cells caused by a genetic mutation.
Impact of Burial Practices on the Body's Transformation Over a Year in a Coffin
Practices like open-casket funerals and various burial methods impact the body's decay process, with factors such as coffin type, embalming, and burial location influencing the timeline and stages of decomposition, ranging from bloating to skeletonization.
After a year in a coffin, the decomposition of a body varies based on factors like burial container and location. The process involves stages such as bloating, corpse wax formation, and eventual skeletonization, with the timeline influenced by environmental conditions, embalming, and burial practices.
Average IQ Scores Per Age
The intelligence quotient (IQ) is a standardized measure indicating mental ability relative to peers, with scores of 90-109 denoting average intelligence. Average IQ varies across age groups, ranging from 108 for 16-17-year-olds to 119 for individuals aged 70-74, with fluctuations observed in older age brackets.
Is It Safe To Live With Only One Kidney?
Living with one kidney is generally safe, and individuals can lead healthy lives, but regular check-ups are recommended. Despite the sale of kidneys, donors often face financial challenges, and precautions like wearing protective gear are advised for those with one kidney participating in sports.
4-Year-Old Math Genius Outsmarts His Teachers
Jamie Mohr, born with a 10% chance of survival at just 1lb 8oz, has defied the odds to become a 4-year-old prodigy excelling in mathematics in six languages. Despite being born prematurely, Jamie's remarkable abilities, including a photographic memory, have surprised his mother and sparked dreams of a future as a pirate.
Lisa Marie Presley's Secondary Cardiac Arrest
54-year-old Lisa Marie Presley passed away in January this year following a second cardiac arrest while hospitalized. Found unresponsive in her California home, Presley was declared brain dead, and despite initial revival attempts, her family opted not to revive her in case of another cardiac arrest.
The official cause of death is pending toxicology test results from an autopsy to determine if drugs were present in her system at the time of her death.
Anesthesia Contributes to Greenhouse Gases
Surgeons are being urged to use less anesthesia to reduce the carbon footprint of hospitals in the United States, as inhalation anesthetic contributes to up to 0.1% of global carbon emissions, according to a study. Researchers suggest modifying anesthesia practices, like cutting back the flow of anesthetic gas, can significantly contribute to environmental efforts without compromising patient care.
Spotting a Liar With Almost 80% Accuracy
Research from the University of Amsterdam's LieLab suggests that the best way to detect lies is by concentrating on the level of detail in a person's story. If an individual provides specific details about who, what, when, how, and why, they are likely telling the truth, with an accuracy rate of almost 80%.
The study indicates that relying solely on the level of detail, rather than physical signs or technological aids, has the potential to yield more accurate judgments of truth and lies.
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