When materials are subjected to sliding forces, small amounts of impurities such as oxygen can actually help stabilize nano-sized voids in amorphous carbon (a-C). This stabilization allows nearby carbon atoms to rearrange into aromatic, graphene-like configurations that promote extremely low friction. Credit: Osaka Metropolitan University Impurities are typically viewed as flaws that should be eliminated to enhance material performance. However, new findings from Osaka Metropolitan University

The Gotland ponies living at Slottsskogen animal park in Gothenburg interact closely and regularly with visitors at the Children’s Zoo. According to new findings from the University of Gothenburg, this frequent contact does not cause the horses noticeable stress. Photo: Pamela Ericsson The ponies at the Children’s Zoo appear comfortable being stroked by both children and adults. In contrast, loud construction noise—such as that from an excavator—does trigger a stress response. This conclusion

During a high-level side event held alongside the Seventy-ninth World Health Assembly (WHA79), governments and partners renewed their commitment to advancing refugee and migrant health by strengthening inclusive national health systems and exchanging practical experiences to turn global pledges into measurable results. Organized by the Government of Spain, co-sponsored by Brazil, Colombia, Egypt and Nepal, and supported by the World Health Organization (WHO), the session concentrated on

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have unveiled a joint continental preparedness and response strategy to address the ongoing Ebola outbreak linked to the Bundibugyo virus. The initiative seeks to mobilize US$ 518 million to help African nations, alongside partners, strengthen readiness, accelerate detection and mount an effective response to the outbreak. Spanning six months from June through November 2026, the plan

What’s the Bottom Line? What do we know about the effectiveness of complementary health approaches for osteoarthritis? Nutritional Approaches • Even after many studies, it remains unclear whether glucosamine and chondroitin meaningfully improve osteoarthritis symptoms or protect joint structure. • For most other dietary supplements, there is not enough reliable evidence to draw firm conclusions. Psychological and Physical Approaches • Acupuncture may provide relief from osteoarthritis pain for

What are omega-3s? Omega-3 fatty acids are a group of fats that occur naturally in certain foods and in the human body. They are also available as dietary supplements and are sometimes called n-3 fatty acids. • Most scientific research has focused on two types: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). • EPA and DHA are primarily found in seafood, especially fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and tuna, as well as in shellfish and fish oil supplements. • Another omega-3, ALA

Common Names: noni, morinda, Indian mulberry, hog apple, canarywood Latin Name: Morinda citrifolia Background • Noni is a small, evergreen tree that grows in tropical regions such as the Pacific Islands, Southeast Asia, Australia, and India. • In traditional medicine systems, noni has been used for colds, infections, fever, and digestive complaints. Nearly every part of the plant—including the roots, bark, stems, leaves, flowers, and fruit—has been used for healing purposes. • Today, noni is

What Is Naturopathy? Naturopathy, often referred to as naturopathic medicine, is a system of health care that developed from a blend of traditional healing methods and medical practices that were widely used in Europe during the 1800s. This approach focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying causes of illness rather than only managing symptoms. Practitioners believe that symptoms are signals from the body indicating imbalance. Naturopathic care emphasizes whole-person healing and

At the Seventy-ninth World Health Assembly (WHA), convened from 18 to 23 May 2026, Member States and international health partners reaffirmed their dedication to the Immunization Agenda 2030 (IA2030), underscoring vaccines as among the most impactful, cost-efficient, and equitable tools in public health. Over 70 Member States and regional blocs, joined by non-State actors, technical agencies, and professional organizations, expressed firm backing for the IA2030 Mid-Term Review under agenda item

Lakes such as Lake Baldegg function as natural reservoirs for nitrogen, helping to shield downstream ecosystems from excess nutrient loads. Rising temperatures linked to climate change are diminishing this essential purification role (Photo: courtesy of Pro Natura Lucerne). Credit: Pro Natura Lucerne Lakes serve as important natural filters within ecosystems by removing surplus nitrogen from the water. An international team of researchers led by the University of Basel and Eawag has

Phylogenetic relationships and geographic range of five pit viper species across the Himalaya and Hindu Kush. Credit: Dr Daniel Jablonski The towering mountain systems of Asia are still among the least thoroughly studied biological regions on the continent. An international team of scientists has now revealed that one of their most secretive venomous snakes, long classified as a single species, actually represents a complex of five separate species, three of them previously unknown to science.

Can music improve your health? Growing scientific evidence suggests that it can. Both listening to music and actively making music influence the brain in ways that may support well-being and help manage certain symptoms of illness. Music performance and listening engage multiple brain regions involved in cognition, sensation, movement, and emotion. These widespread effects may translate into physical and psychological benefits. Music stimulates the release of neurotransmitters and hormones that

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is investigating a cluster of illnesses potentially connected to Diamond Shruumz-brand chocolate bars, cones, and gummies advertised as containing a proprietary mushroom blend. As of July 15, 2024, 69 cases have been reported across 28 states. Of these, 36 individuals required hospitalization, and one possible death has been reported since June 2024. Reported symptoms include seizures, confusion, irregular heart rhythms, and nausea. The precise cause

Featured Website Explore detailed articles highlighting NIH’s innovative biomedical research initiatives. Discover the current progress across a range of scientific fields and gain insight into future directions. Research in Context articles are published quarterly in NIH Research Matters. Check out the newest feature focusing on advances in addiction treatment. Visit the website for more information.

The brick wall sections can be carefully taken apart and rebuilt without sustaining damage. The photo shows the structure being reassembled after dismantling. Credit: TU Graz The construction industry still faces major challenges in cutting down resource consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. A significant issue lies in the large volume of waste generated when buildings are demolished. This is particularly problematic for structures designed for relatively short service lives—such as retail

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disorder that affects the central nervous system. In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks myelin, the protective covering around nerve fibers. Damage to myelin disrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body. Common symptoms include muscle weakness—often in the arms and legs—tingling or burning feelings, numbness, long-term pain, problems with balance and coordination, fatigue, vision disturbances, and bladder control difficulties.

Health Capsule Scientists have discovered that bacteria likely play an important role in the formation of most kidney stones. Earlier research had only connected bacteria to stones that developed after an infection. Kidney stones are small, rock-like deposits that develop in the kidneys. They form when minerals in urine crystallize and stick together. The majority are composed of calcium oxalate. Other stones arise following urinary tract infections (UTIs). These are known as struvite stones

In accordance with paragraph 2 of Article 12 of the International Health Regulations (2005) (IHR) concerning the determination of a public health emergency of international concern, including a pandemic emergency, the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), following consultation with the States Parties where the event is currently occurring, has determined that the outbreak of Ebola disease caused by Bundibugyo virus in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda

Health Capsule A recent study has found that a simple blood test may help predict when a person will begin to experience symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. This discovery could support scientists in developing more effective strategies to delay or reduce the impact of the condition. Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disorder of the brain that gradually damages memory and thinking abilities. It is the leading cause of dementia worldwide. While there is currently no cure, certain treatments can

Dear residents of Tenerife, Warm greetings from Geneva. It is Tedros once again. Our mission in Tenerife has now concluded. And it concluded with dignity. Last Monday, I stood at the port of Granadilla de Abona and observed the final passengers from the MV Hondius step into the vehicles that would take them onward toward home. I saw health professionals in protective equipment working with steady focus. I saw Spanish authorities coordinating each movement with care and discipline. Above all, I