Benzalkonium chloride (BAC) is a common cleaning agent that can also act as a preservative in many everyday items. Recent research shows that BAC can interfere with an enzyme called 5α‑reductase 1, which is essential for turning testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the brain. The study tes
The mayor used a big rally in Queens to say that the next part of his term will focus on small, everyday fixes – what he calls “pothole politics. ” He also announced three new promises for the rest of his time in office: opening five city‑run grocery stores, making all trash containers available eve
In brain scans, scientists often use specific exercises to find where certain functions live in the brain. These tasks can be boring, causing people to move and tiredness, especially kids who find long scans hard. A new idea is to show them a fun movie instead of a strict task, hoping they stay stil
Chicago residents should prepare for a week of unpredictable weather, with several chances for strong to severe storms starting Monday afternoon. The first potential showers appear during the morning commute, as warm temperatures and humid conditions set the stage for possible rain. Morning dew poin
Canada’s National Advisory Committee on Immunization celebrated its 60th year in 2024. For six decades, the group has offered trusted advice for the country’s vaccine programs. In the last ten years, NACI broadened its focus. It now weighs ethics, fairness, practicality, public opinion, and
The United Kingdom has decided not to take part in the U. S. plan to block Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz. British warships and soldiers will not be used to stop ships from entering or leaving Iran. However, UK minesweepers and drone‑fighting systems will keep working in the area. The Britis
A new day means another round of word puzzles, this time with a sports twist. The latest challenge throws players into four different categories, each hiding a sneaky connection. Some groups rely on familiar phrases, while others twist common words into unexpected meanings. The game tests more than
A Venezuelan oil executive once trusted the system—until it turned against him. In 2017, Gustavo Cárdenas (name changed for clarity) landed a top job at Citgo, the U. S. arm of Venezuela’s state oil company. Just months later, he was arrested in Caracas, thrown into a military prison, and convicted
South African health clinics give vaccines to pregnant women every day. But what happens when these vaccines cause unwanted reactions? A recent study asked workers on the front lines how well they monitor these side effects. Most know vaccines prevent diseases, but many struggle to follow the rules
New York City keeps trying to shrink class sizes—because who wouldn’t want that? But here’s the catch: the plan assumes there’s room to make it happen. And there isn’t. Schools are packed, buildings are old, and new ones take years to build. Not to mention finding land in a crowded city is like winn
