New research has identified gold-based compounds that could treat multidrug-resistant "superbugs", with some effectiveness against several bacteria. Antibiotic resistance is a global public health threat, and the development of new antibiotics has stalled. Gold metalloantibiotics, compounds with a gold ion at their core, could be a promising new approach. Dr. Sara M. Soto Gonzalez and colleagues studied the activity of 19 gold complexes against a range of multidrug-resistant bacteria isolated from patients. The gold compounds were effective against at least one bacterial species studied, with some displaying potent activity against several multidrug-resistant bacteria.

Discover the secret behind Gram-negative bacteria's armor-like outer membrane! A new study led by Professor Colin Kleanthous at the University of Oxford sheds light on how bacteria like E. coli construct their outer membrane to resemble body armor, with implications for developing antibiotics.

Sugar is a staple in the modern diet, but it can also be a health hazard when consumed in excess. As a result, sugar substitutes have become increasingly popular in recent years. In this write-up, we will explore the science and effectiveness of sugar substitutes, including the various types of sugar substitutes and their effects on the human body. One of the most widely used sugar substitutes is aspartame, which is commonly found in diet soda and other low-calorie products. While aspartame has been the subject of much debate, studies have shown that it is safe for human consumption in moderate amounts. Another popular sugar substitute is stevia, which is derived from a plant and has no calories. Stevia has been shown to be an effective sugar substitute for people with diabetes, as it does not raise blood sugar levels. But not all sugar substitutes are created equal. For example, sugar alcohols like xylitol and erythritol can cause digestive issues when consumed in large quantities. And some artificial sweeteners like saccharin have been linked to an increased risk of cancer. Leading academics in the field of sugar substitutes include Dr. Marion Nestle, a professor of nutrition at New York University, and Dr. Richard Mattes, a professor of nutrition science at Purdue University. These experts have conducted extensive research on the effects of sugar substitutes on the human body and can provide valuable insights into the topic. The science and effectiveness of sugar substitutes are fascinating topics that can inspire students to explore the world of nutrition and health. By encouraging independent exploration and self-directed projects, we can empower high school students to take ownership of their learning and develop a lifelong love of academic inquiry.

Stanford University researchers, in collaboration with other institutions, have developed a molecule that prevents the spike protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus from twisting and infecting cells, including those with new variants. This new type of antiviral therapeutic, called the longHR2\_42 inhibitor, may be delivered via inhaler to treat early infections and prevent severe illness. The team's detailed understanding of the twisted structure of the virus's spike protein allowed them to create a longer molecule that is more effective than previous attempts to block the virus. Their groundbreaking research may lead to a promising solution to combat COVID-19.

The world is still facing daily COVID-19 infections and the threat of virus mutation, but it's not too late to change the game. A pandemic vaccine alliance, similar to NATO, could be the solution to overcome the "free-rider problem" in global health efforts and ensure the world's biological security.

Have you ever wondered why a black eye turns blue, then green, then yellow, and finally brown before disappearing? It's all because of your hemoglobin, the compound in red blood cells that brings oxygen to your body. When you get hit, the blow crushes tiny blood vessels called capillaries, and red blood cells ooze out of the broken capillaries into the surrounding tissue. From the outside of your skin, this mass of cells looks bluish-black, which is where we get the term, "black and blue". Learning about hemoglobin and how it works in your body can be fascinating and practical knowledge that can help you understand how your body works. It's an example of how exploring academic topics through reading, reflection, and writing can inspire you to learn more about the world around you.

Have you ever considered a career in Oncology? As an oncologist, you would be at the forefront of cancer care, helping patients navigate through one of the most challenging times of their lives. Not only would you be making a significant impact on the lives of those affected by cancer, but you would also be part of a field that is constantly evolving and advancing. As an oncologist, you would work with a team of healthcare professionals to diagnose and treat cancer patients. You would be responsible for developing treatment plans, monitoring patients' progress, and providing emotional support to patients and their families. Oncologists also play a vital role in cancer research, helping to develop new treatments and therapies. There are several specializations within the field of oncology, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. Medical oncologists focus on using chemotherapy and other medications to treat cancer, while radiation oncologists use radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells. Surgical oncologists, on the other hand, perform surgeries to remove cancerous tumors. To become an oncologist, you will need to complete a medical degree, followed by a residency in oncology. Popular undergraduate programs for aspiring oncologists include biology, chemistry, and pre-med. In addition to formal education, oncologists must possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as well as a strong desire to help others. Job prospects for oncologists are excellent, with a growing demand for cancer care worldwide. There are many potential employers in both the public and private sectors, including hospitals, research institutions, and pharmaceutical companies. Notable employers include Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, MD Anderson Cancer Center, and the National Cancer Institute. In conclusion, a career in oncology is both challenging and rewarding. By pursuing this career, you would be making a significant impact on the lives of cancer patients and their families, while also contributing to the advancement of cancer research and treatment. So if you have a passion for helping others and a desire to make a difference in the world, consider a career in oncology.

Have you ever wondered what happens to your blood after it's drawn at the doctor's office? Or how doctors diagnose illnesses and diseases? Enter the world of Medical Laboratory Science, where the magic happens behind the scenes. As a Medical Laboratory Scientist, your role is crucial in the healthcare industry. You'll use advanced laboratory techniques and equipment to analyze patient samples, such as blood, tissue, and bodily fluids, to help diagnose and treat diseases. You'll work with a team of healthcare professionals, including doctors and nurses, to provide accurate and timely results that inform patient care. But what makes this career so appealing? For starters, it's a constantly evolving field. With new technologies and discoveries, you'll always be learning and adapting to stay at the forefront of your profession. Plus, you'll have the satisfaction of knowing that your work directly impacts patient outcomes and helps save lives. In terms of duties, Medical Laboratory Scientists can specialize in a variety of areas, such as microbiology, hematology, or immunology. You may also work in related fields, such as research or public health. Typical tasks include analyzing samples, interpreting results, and communicating findings to healthcare providers. To become a Medical Laboratory Scientist, you'll need at least a Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science or a related field. Popular undergraduate programs include Biology, Chemistry, and Medical Technology. You'll also need to complete a clinical rotation and pass a certification exam. Helpful personal attributes for this career include attention to detail, critical thinking skills, and the ability to work well under pressure. You'll also need strong communication skills to effectively communicate with healthcare providers and patients. Job prospects for Medical Laboratory Scientists are strong, with a projected growth rate of 11% from 2018 to 2028. You can find job opportunities in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, research labs, and government agencies. Notable employers include Mayo Clinic, Quest Diagnostics, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. So if you're interested in a career that combines science, technology, and healthcare, consider exploring the world of Medical Laboratory Science. Who knows - you could be the next person to discover a life-saving breakthrough!

Are you interested in science and making a difference in people's lives? A career in pharmaceutical research might be just what you're looking for! Pharmaceutical research is an exciting field that involves discovering and developing new drugs and therapies to treat and cure diseases. As a pharmaceutical researcher, you will have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge research projects that could change the lives of millions of people. For example, did you know that the development of the COVID-19 vaccines is a result of years of pharmaceutical research? You could be part of the next breakthrough in medicine! In this field, your typical duties will include conducting laboratory experiments, analyzing data, developing new drugs, and testing their safety and effectiveness. You may also specialize in a particular area, such as drug design, pharmacology, or clinical research. To become a pharmaceutical researcher, you will need to pursue a degree in a relevant field, such as chemistry, biology, or pharmacology. Popular undergraduate programs and majors include Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Medicinal Chemistry. A graduate degree in pharmaceutical research is also highly desirable and may be required for some positions. Helpful personal attributes for this field include strong critical thinking skills, attention to detail, and excellent communication skills. A passion for science and a desire to make a difference in the world are also important. The job prospects for pharmaceutical researchers are promising. With the aging population and increasing demand for new drugs and therapies, the demand for skilled researchers is expected to grow. Notable and attractive potential employers in this field include pharmaceutical companies such as Pfizer, Merck, and Novartis, as well as government agencies such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Are you fascinated by the human body and how it works? Do you dream of becoming a doctor and making a difference in people's lives? Then pre-medicine might be the perfect field of study for you! Pre-medicine is a challenging and rewarding field that prepares students for medical school and a career in healthcare. It encompasses a wide range of subjects, from biology and chemistry to anatomy and physiology. Through this field of study, you will gain a deep understanding of the human body and the diseases that affect it. Research in pre-medicine is constantly evolving, with new innovations and breakthroughs being made all the time. For example, recent studies have shown that stem cell therapy may be a promising treatment for a variety of conditions, from heart disease to Parkinson's. Additionally, academic figures like Dr. Anthony Fauci have made significant contributions to the field, particularly in the area of infectious diseases. At the undergraduate level, typical majors and modules include biology, chemistry, and biochemistry. These foundational courses provide a strong basis for further specialization in areas such as neuroscience, pharmacology, or genetics. For example, you could become a specialist in neurology and work with patients who have disorders like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's. The potential career paths for pre-med graduates are vast and varied. Many go on to become doctors, working in fields such as pediatrics, cardiology, or oncology. Others pursue careers in related fields, such as medical research or public health. Notable employers include world-renowned hospitals such as the Mayo Clinic and Johns Hopkins, as well as organizations like the World Health Organization and Doctors Without Borders. To succeed in pre-medicine, it's important to have a strong work ethic, a passion for learning, and excellent communication skills. You should also have a keen interest in science and a desire to make a difference in people's lives. In conclusion, pre-medicine is an exciting and challenging field of study that offers a wealth of opportunities for those who are passionate about healthcare. With a strong foundation in biology and chemistry, you can specialize in a variety of areas and pursue a rewarding career in medicine or related fields. So if you're ready to make a difference in the world, consider studying pre-medicine and joining the ranks of healthcare professionals who are changing lives every day.

Do you have a passion for helping others and a fascination with the human eye? If so, a career in optometry could be the perfect fit for you! Optometrists are healthcare professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating vision problems and eye diseases. They play a vital role in helping people maintain healthy eyes and clear vision. As an optometrist, you'll have the opportunity to work with patients of all ages, from children to seniors. You'll use state-of-the-art technology to examine patients' eyes and diagnose problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. You'll also be able to detect and treat eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. One of the most appealing aspects of a career in optometry is the ability to make a real difference in people's lives. Imagine helping a child see clearly for the first time or saving someone's vision by detecting a serious eye disease early on. Optometrists have the power to improve their patients' quality of life in meaningful ways. In addition to traditional optometry, there are many areas of specialization within the field. Some optometrists choose to focus on pediatric optometry, working with children to ensure they have healthy eyes and clear vision. Others specialize in contact lenses, helping patients find the perfect lenses to fit their unique needs. And still others focus on low vision, working with patients who have severe visual impairments to help them navigate the world around them. To become an optometrist, you'll need to complete a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited optometry school. Popular undergraduate majors for aspiring optometrists include biology, chemistry, and physics. In addition to completing a rigorous academic program, you'll also need to pass a national board exam to become licensed to practice. Helpful personal attributes for a career in optometry include strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a passion for helping others. You'll also need to be comfortable using technology and working with a wide range of patients. Job prospects for optometrists are strong, with a projected growth rate of 10% over the next decade. Optometrists can work in a variety of settings, from private practices to hospitals to retail stores. Some notable employers in the field include LensCrafters, Kaiser Permanente, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. So if you're looking for a career that combines cutting-edge technology, meaningful patient interactions, and the opportunity to make a real difference in people's lives, consider a career in optometry!

Want to know the secret to successful and sustainable weight loss? According to a recent study by Stanford Medicine researchers, it's all about the bacteria in your gut and the biomarkers in your body! The study found that certain gut microbiome ecologies and amounts of proteins can predict whether you will be successful at losing weight and keeping it off. So, are you ready to unlock the power of your gut and biomarkers for weight loss success?

Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a heart doctor? Well, look no further because we've got the inside scoop on the exciting and rewarding field of cardiology! As a cardiologist, you'll be responsible for diagnosing and treating heart conditions, helping patients live longer, healthier lives. From heart attacks to arrhythmias, you'll have the knowledge and skills to provide life-saving care to those in need. But being a cardiologist isn't just about saving lives, it's also about preventing heart disease. You'll work with patients to develop healthy habits and manage risk factors, like high blood pressure and high cholesterol. And the best part? The field of cardiology is constantly evolving, with new treatments and technologies being developed all the time. You'll have the opportunity to stay at the forefront of medical advancements and make a real difference in the lives of your patients. Typical duties of a cardiologist include performing diagnostic tests, like electrocardiograms and echocardiograms, prescribing medication and lifestyle changes, and performing procedures like angioplasty and stenting. There are also many areas of specialisation within the field, such as electrophysiology and interventional cardiology. To become a cardiologist, you'll need to complete extensive education and training. This typically includes a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as biology or chemistry, followed by medical school and a residency in internal medicine. After that, you'll complete a fellowship in cardiology, where you'll gain specialised knowledge and skills. Helpful personal attributes for a career in cardiology include strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a passion for helping others. You'll also need to be able to work well under pressure and make quick decisions in life-or-death situations. Job prospects for cardiologists are excellent, with a growing demand for heart specialists around the world. Some notable potential employers include the Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, and Johns Hopkins Hospital, among many others. So, if you're looking for a challenging and rewarding career that allows you to make a real difference in the lives of others, consider becoming a cardiologist. Your heart (and your patients' hearts) will thank you!

The discovery of antibiotics in the 20th Century revolutionized healthcare, adding an average of 20 years to everyone's life. However, the overuse and misuse of antibiotics have led to the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, or superbugs, which could cause a health crisis worse than any we've experienced this century. By 2050, it's predicted that 10 million people will die every year from complications with superbugs. A world without antibiotics would be catastrophic, impacting our food chain and causing many to die younger than they do now. As students, it's important to understand the consequences of antibiotic misuse and to be cautious when taking antibiotics. By finishing the full course of antibiotics, we can prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Additionally, we should be aware of the need for new antibiotics and support efforts to fund research into finding them. Anticipating problems and taking action before they become global crises is key to protecting our health and future.

The immune system is a crucial part of our body's interconnected system, and a healthy gut microbiome is critical to a healthy immune system. Rather than trying to boost our immune system, we should focus on supporting it through a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a diverse diet with plenty of fiber and polyphenols, stress reduction, and good sleep. While there is no magic pill to boost our immune response, scientists are constantly developing new drug treatments and therapies to combat a wide range of diseases. It is also important to note that risky procedures such as faecal transplants should only be done within the confines of a medical clinic. By understanding how our immune system works, we can take steps to keep it healthy and help win the war against infection.

Are you someone who loves to take care of their skin and is fascinated by the science of it all? Do you have an eye for detail and a passion for helping others look and feel their best? If so, then a career in dermatology might be the perfect fit for you! Dermatology is a branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nail conditions. It's a field that's constantly evolving, with new research and technology being developed all the time. As a dermatologist, you'll have the opportunity to work with patients of all ages, from newborns to the elderly, and help them with a wide range of skin issues. One of the most appealing aspects of a career in dermatology is the variety of conditions you'll encounter. From acne and eczema to skin cancer and psoriasis, no two cases are the same. You'll have the chance to use your expertise to diagnose and treat these conditions, as well as perform cosmetic procedures such as Botox injections and laser hair removal. To become a dermatologist, you'll need to complete extensive education and training. This typically includes a four-year undergraduate degree in a science-related field such as biology or chemistry, followed by four years of medical school. After that, you'll need to complete a residency program in dermatology, which can take up to four years. In addition to a strong academic background, there are certain personal attributes that can be helpful in a career in dermatology. These include excellent communication skills, a compassionate nature, and a strong attention to detail. You'll also need to be comfortable working with patients of all ages and backgrounds, and be able to handle the emotional aspects of the job. The job prospects for dermatologists are excellent, with a strong demand for their services in both the public and private sectors. Some notable potential employers include hospitals, clinics, and private practices. You may also have the opportunity to work in research or academia, helping to develop new treatments and technologies for skin conditions. So if you have a passion for skin care and a desire to make a difference in people's lives, a career in dermatology might be the perfect choice for you. With hard work and dedication, you could be on your way to a fulfilling and rewarding career in this exciting field.

The history of blood transfusions is a fascinating and important academic concept that can benefit high school students in many ways. Learning about the discovery of blood types and the science behind antibodies and antigens can help students understand the human body and the immune system. Additionally, the practical applications of this knowledge are vast, as blood transfusions have saved countless lives throughout history. By exploring this topic through reading, reflection, and self-directed projects, students can gain a deeper understanding of medical advancements and the impact they have on society. This can also inspire students to pursue careers in medical fields, where they can make a difference in the lives of others. Overall, the history of blood transfusions is a compelling and relatable topic that can encourage students to explore academic concepts independently and engage with the world around them.

Are you curious about the tiny viruses that inhabit your body? MIT Technology Review's biotech newsletter, The Checkup, explores the world of bacteriophages, or "phages" for short. These microscopic viruses have the potential to treat bacterial infections, but they've been largely abandoned in favor of antibiotics. With antimicrobial resistance on the rise, interest in phage therapy is making a comeback. Learn about the diversity and specificity of phages, and how they could be engineered to target specific bacteria. Discover the potential of phage therapy and the challenges that need to be overcome in this fascinating article.

Weight loss surgery decreases bile acids linked to higher appetite, but lifestyle changes could mimic the effect. Researchers from King's, the University of Nottingham, and Amsterdam University Medical Centre found that gut microbes play a key role in regulating bile acids and metabolism. The study's results have important implications for targeted interventions for metabolic disorders focused on the gut microbiome. Co-author Professor Tim Spector, the co-founder of personalised nutrition company ZOE, highlights the promise of gut microbiome testing in supporting metabolic health.

Discover how human evolution has led to unique diseases like knee osteoarthritis, affecting millions worldwide. Professor Terence D. Capellini shares genetic research on the link between bipedalism and knee osteoarthritis, and how identifying high-risk patients at an early age can inform future therapies. Explore the Developmental and Evolutionary Genetics Lab's work and hypotheses published in his 2020 paper "Evolutionary Selection and Constraint on Human Knee Chondrocyte Regulation Impacts Osteoarthritis Risk." Join the Harvard Museums of Science & Culture's ongoing series to learn more.