A new study suggests a connection between certain sleep patterns and increased mortality among older adults. While occasional naps, such as dozing off while watching TV or a brief rest after lunch, are not concerning, frequent drowsiness at breakfast despite a full night’s sleep could indicate deeper health issues, according to researchers from Mass General…
Illustrations by Liz Zonarich accompany a piece by Harvard staff writer Samantha Laine Perfas about overcoming regret, featured in the podcast “Harvard Thinking.” In this episode, experts discuss strategies for handling regrets over past mistakes and missed opportunities. Samantha Laine Perfas engages with three professionals, including palliative care expert Susan Block, behavioral scientist Leslie John,…
Thirty-seven years ago, scientists first managed to move single atoms, opening up the potential to design materials atom by atom to tailor their properties. Today, several methods exist that allow researchers to manipulate individual atoms to endow materials with unique quantum features and deepen our understanding of quantum phenomena. However, current methods are limited to…
Oxygen plays a crucial role in chemistry due to its effectiveness in forming organic molecules that constitute our environment. Peroxides, a class of oxygen-based compounds, are noted for their high reactivity, functioning like oxygen transport vehicles that transfer atoms to other molecules. This process is vital for applications ranging from drug development to industrial production….
MIT engineers have introduced a novel method to enhance T-cell responses in mRNA vaccines, potentially resulting in more potent cancer vaccines and improved defenses against infectious diseases. Typically, vaccines stimulate antibodies and T cells by activating antigen-presenting cells like dendritic cells. This research, however, fortified the T-cell response using a new vaccine adjuvant. These adjuvants…
Think about how much of your day is spent collecting information. We often browse through data we deem important, driven by the powerful urge of “not knowing.” This need to close the gap in our knowledge ignites curiosity and leads to a sense of fulfillment. The thrill of discovering necessary information captivates us and helps…
A survey conducted in 2025 by the Higher Education Policy Institute revealed that 92% of university students now incorporate AI tools in their studies, a significant rise from 66% the previous year, according to Freeman (2025). For educators in online settings, the focus has moved from whether to permit AI to how to develop courses…
William Hanage, a professor of epidemiology at Harvard, believes that the hantavirus outbreak on the Dutch cruise ship MV Hondius will eventually be contained, though it may take some time. The focus is now on preventing further transmission as 18 American passengers have returned to the U.S., while others are heading back to their home…
