Is non-stick cookware safe to use?

Summary: Many non-stick cookware items contain chemicals called PFAS, that have been indicated in multiple health issues. Overheating non-stick cookware damages it and releases toxic fumes. Scratched non-stick coating leads to plastic particles in food that accumulate in the stomach and kidneys. Other cookware options exist, such as stainless steel, cast iron or enamel coated. Non-stick cookware is amazing; one […]

How are different types of RNAs used in various applications?

Summary: RNAs are a diverse group of molecules that exist ubiquitously in nature. They may possess varying biological functions and can be utilised for varying therapeutic goals. The function of RNA is driven by its sequence. CRISPR sgRNA and mRNA vaccines consist of different sequences and act differently.  CRISPR sgRNA binds to its target genome sequence and Cas9 protein in […]

How much do we depend on insects?

Summary: The insect population, including that of pollinators, is constantly declining. Insects have important functions in both natural and agricultural ecosystems. Pollinators, in particular, are responsible for the fertilisation and consequent growth of many plant species. One-third of the agricultural products we consume comes from plants whose survival is at least partially dependent on animal pollination. Wasp, honeybee, or bumblebee? […]

Does the recent approval of the RTS, S vaccine mean the end of malaria?

Summary: RTS, S (Mosquirix) is the first vaccine against malaria with WHO recommendation for widespread use. RTS, S vaccine provides 36% protective efficacy against malaria after 4 doses. Malaria is far from being eradicated and still more effort is needed to relieve the world from its burden. In recent weeks, the world was struck with very exciting news related to […]

What can the latest surge in SARS-CoV-2 infections in Israel tell us about the vaccine’s effectiveness?

Summary: High numbers of infection with the Delta virus variant have been reported in Israel despite the vaccination rate of over 50%. The number of hospitalized people was smaller than in the previous wave. The vaccines are highly effective against infections and hospitalizations but the effectiveness against infection wanes over time. Since the approval of the vaccines against SARS-CoV-2, multiple […]

Biodynamic and organic agriculture products: what are we buying?

Summary: Although they share some similarities, the biodynamic and the organic approaches in agriculture show substantial differences, one of the main being the different protocols for the certification of the respective products. Biodynamic agriculture is not based on any scientific research or method. On top of the restrictions used in organic agriculture, the biodynamic method applies esoteric techniques based on […]

Are Bluetooth and Wi-Fi dangerous for our health?

Summary: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are transmitted via electromagnetic waves around 2.4GHz, defined as microwave radiation. The potential danger of electromagnetic radiation depends on both its frequency and its strength. Studies indicate that very strong microwave radiation can cause damage to cells and may cause cancer at a low rate in animals. However, the results of these studies can not be […]

How effective is the new drug for Alzheimer’s disease – Aducanumab (market name Aduhelm)?

Summary: Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative illness which progressively decreases cognitive abilities and, in the latest stages, results in the patient’s death. While there are drugs easing symptoms, there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease. Aducanumab does not cure Alzheimer’s disease but can help reduce cognitive decline in some patients. Besides the ongoing SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, there are still many […]