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Ultrasound for Distal Forearm Fractures in Younger folks; Ketamine vs ECT for Despair

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Ultrasound for Distal Forearm Fractures in Younger folks; Ketamine vs ECT for Despair

TTHealthWatch is a weekly podcast from Texas Tech. In it, Elizabeth Tracey, director of electronic media for Johns Hopkins Remedy in Baltimore, and Rick Lange, MD, president of the Texas Tech University Neatly being Sciences Center in El Paso, inquire of on the head clinical tales of the week.

This week’s subjects encompass treating intracerebral hemorrhage, diagnosing forearm fractures in younger folks, ketamine and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for depression, and defining post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 an infection (PASC).

Program notes:

0:38 Defining PASC

1:38 Lack of or exchange in smell

2:38 Frequent physiologic parts?

3:38 Maintain a look at ways of treating it

3:fifty three Remedy-resistant predominant depression

4:51 Simplest 41% in ECT crew

5:51 Not rate efficient in clinics

6:55 Treating intracerebral hemorrhage

7:55 Quick reversal of warfarin

8:55 Even in high-profits counties

9:25 Diagnosing distal forearm fractures in younger folks

10:25 Ultrasound increasingly adopted

11:25 Outcomes appropriate as appropriate as radiography

12:30 Discontinuance

Transcript:

Elizabeth: What’s the staunch system to treat a bleed in the mind?

Rick: Ketamine versus electroconvulsive therapy for remedy-resistant depression?

Elizabeth: Will we outline post-COVID sequelae?

Rick: The expend of ultrasound to diagnose suspected arm fractures.

Elizabeth: That is what we’re talking about this week on TTHealthWatch, your weekly inquire of on the clinical headlines from Texas Tech University Neatly being Sciences Center in El Paso. I’m Elizabeth Tracey, a Baltimore-based mostly clinical journalist.

Rick: I’m Rick Lange, president of Texas Tech University Neatly being Sciences Center in El Paso the attach I’m moreover dean of the Paul L. Foster College of Remedy.

Elizabeth: In protecting with our dependancy for the closing 3 years, we will turn straight to JAMA and we will rob a inquire of at post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 an infection known in all caps as PASC and colloquially known as “lengthy COVID.” Right here’s a inspect that had 85 enrolling internet sites in 33 U.S. states plus Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico. They had an entire of 9,764 people, 89% of whom were contaminated with SARS-CoV-2, 71% female, and their median age of 47 years.

They’re making an strive to outline what does PASC inquire of esteem. Their symptoms that contributed to their PASC internet calculation integrated, and I will title all of them, post-exertional malaise, fatigue, mind fog, dizziness, gastrointestinal symptoms, palpitations, modifications in sexual want or skill, loss of or exchange in smell or model, thirst, power cough, chest anguish, and irregular actions.

Amongst their 2,231 people first contaminated on or after December 1, 2021 and enrolled within 30 days of an infection, they found that there were 10% of them who were PASC obvious at 6 months. There could be heaps of assorted extra or much less nick and dice attempts among this inhabitants to extra outline it.

Rick: The motive they chose this particular timeframe is on fable of, as they neatly-known, you is inclined to be extra inclined to absorb lengthy COVID symptoms at the same time as you happen to were unvaccinated, at the same time as you happen to happened to be re-contaminated, and at the same time as you happen to had got the Omicron variant versus an infection with one other variant. The motive to internet our definitions round right here’s we’re making an strive to internet a pair things. We’re making an strive to title how regularly this occurs. We’re making an strive to glance if there is some trendy physiologic causes about why these occur. If we internet that, we are in a position to focus on both about remedy or lengthy-time period outcomes.

Elizabeth: I internet it. I’d moreover yelp that the editorialist aspects out heaps of the truth is uncommon facts — that virtually about 4% of oldsters with out a historical previous of COVID-19 met the internet cutoff for PASC. After which the big overlap between folks who absorb the constellation of symptoms that defines myalgic encephalomyelitis or power fatigue syndrome and what occurs on this PASC definition moreover. At closing, that so heaps of these folks are female.

Rick: There could be some overlap on fable of there could be a trendy root attach off among all these things. As an illustration, in the inspect that you mentioned, no longer most productive internet they bag the clinical recordsdata, however they the truth is financial institution bile samples as neatly. Presumably by taking a inquire of at this with this condition, or varied viral diseases — for example, those who attach off power fatigue syndrome — we are in a position to gain some commonalities that enable us to both predict what’s going to occur or inquire of at ways of treating it or assessing the pure historical previous.

Elizabeth: I possess we bought loads extra work to internet. I affirm the editorialist. It be a extremely considerable initial framework for this work to head ahead. Which of yours would you esteem to turn to, sir, each and each in NEJM [[Contemporary England Journal of Remedy]?

Rick: Let’s focus on first about remedy-resistant predominant depression. Electroconvulsive therapy has lengthy been outdated school for over 80 years now for this particular condition. More no longer too lengthy in the past, using sub-anesthetic intravenous ketamine has moreover confirmed to be efficient for people who absorb remedy-resistant predominant depression. We’re talking about those who absorb an unsatisfactory response to two or extra enough trials of antidepressants, which is ready a third of the 21 million adults in the US which absorb predominant depression.

What these authors did changed into they in contrast the two. It be a randomized non-inferiority trial of 403 patients at 5 clinical internet sites randomized to receive both ECT or ketamine. They tell these patients after the initial remedy fragment and folks that had a obvious response extra over a 6-month period. What they found changed into that in regards to initial response, an entire of 55% of the patients in the ketamine crew and most productive 41% of those on this ECT crew had a response. Ketamine changed into the truth is non-unsuitable.

Once they inquire of over a longer period of time, the outcomes were identical. Other folks that had ECT were extra inclined to absorb some issues with memory early on. Other folks that got ketamine were extra inclined to absorb dissociative thinking. It suggests that ketamine will be outdated school as antagonistic to ECT on this particular crew.

By the system, this particular crew didn’t absorb psychosis. We all know that ECT is significantly worthwhile in older folks and folks which absorb remedy-resistant depression and psychosis. These folks were excluded from this particular inspect. ECT is oftentimes no longer administered. There could be a stigma associated to it, so to be in a characteristic to expend sub-anesthetic doses of ketamine for this patient inhabitants and having an final result that is suitable as appropriate or a piece bit higher is terribly encouraging.

Elizabeth: It be moreover the truth is inviting. As you is inclined to be neatly unsleeping, ketamine clinics which absorb popped up in every single popularity are now closing in file numbers on fable of oldsters can no longer make the numbers work. It be no longer rate efficient for those which were running them to the truth is continue to internet so. My do an bid to about this application for ketamine is how many episodes or how many administrations of ketamine were there in comparison with how again and again ECT changed into outdated school and were these under what conditions.

Rick: One day of the initial 3-week remedy fragment, patients got both ECT three times per week or ketamine twice per week.

Elizabeth: In my peek to this, it appears to be like esteem the ketamine is more uncomplicated to administer than the ECT. Is there any reflection about that on this paper?

Rick: This changed into done in the outpatient surroundings. ECT previously wasn’t outdated school that system, however it’s the truth is been refined and receive in that surroundings as neatly. Giving sub-anesthetic doses of ketamine will be done in the outpatient surroundings as neatly. Practically about the cost-effectiveness, this inspect didn’t take care of that at all.

Elizabeth: Neatly, I possess there goes to be ongoing debate about this appropriate as … we debate many things. Over the lengthy haul, I possess there goes to continue to be some controversy surrounding this.

Let’s turn now to The Lancet and right here’s a inspect that they yelp is primarily, as a minimum on this inspect, centered to low- and heart-profits countries. Nonetheless, the authors prognosticate that they affirm their findings will be very worthwhile for bigger-profits countries moreover. They’re taking a inquire of at hemorrhagic stroke and their central hypothesis is that early regulate of elevated blood rigidity is the most promising remedy for acute intracerebral hemorrhage.

They enrolled patients from nine low-profits and heart-profits countries and one high-profits nation, Chile. They had imaging-confirmed spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage and the patients presented within 6 hours of the onset of symptoms. They outdated school a bundle of interventions to strive and pork up outcomes right here. The bundle integrated intensive early lowering of systolic blood rigidity, strict glucose regulate, anti-fever therapies, and fleet reversal of warfarin-associated anticoagulation. Their predominant final result measure changed into purposeful recovery.

They had over 7,000 patients enrolled. Appropriate unnerved of 3,000 of them were in the care bundle. What they showed changed into that the patients in the care bundle crew had fewer severe unfavourable events and so they’d higher outcomes than the folks who weren’t.

Rick: Right here’s associated on fable of global intracerebral hemorrhage accounts for approximately 20% of the virtually 20 million fresh strokes that occur once a year. As you mentioned, right here’s a inspect the attach they threw the kitchen sink out. They mentioned let’s internet all the pieces we are in a position to recall to mind that could be in a characteristic to attend them lower their blood rigidity, lower their sugar, treat their fever, and reverse their anticoagulation. They did absorb the next final result. Nonetheless, when they went down and looked at which had the main homicide, it perceived to be lowering blood rigidity, lowering the systolic blood rigidity to much less than 140.

Elizabeth: As I mentioned, the authors prognosticate that, gosh, even right here in high-profits countries, we should always not absorb heaps of the truth is very excellent things to internet for fogeys who absorb intracerebral hemorrhage and that this could be neatly price employing this strategy globally.

Rick: Finally, globally, the most trendy motive late intracerebral hemorrhage is elevated, untreated, uncontrolled hypertension. Subsequently, it will also aloof be no shock that in these primarily low- and heart-profits countries, lowering the blood rigidity in them could also vastly pork up the head result with intracerebral hemorrhage.

Elizabeth: OK. Support to NEJM. Diagnosing distal forearm fractures in younger folks.

Rick: Right here’s a titillating inspect. I under no circumstances belief of using an ultrasound to diagnose fractures, however these, what are known as distal forearm injuries, in kids and teens the truth is a frequent motive they move to the emergency room no longer most productive in the US, however worldwide.

The commonest fractures in kids are what’s known as buckle fractures, that is, there isn’t very any longer a determined ruin. It appropriate buckles and it’s equivalent to virtually a silent tissue hurt. You mustn’t absorb to the truth is do a forged on it. You have to treat it with a splint or per chance a bandage. Primarily that is diagnosed by radiography. If the child has a determined deformity, they’ve a break. Nonetheless the buckle fractures are in point of fact laborious to glance on the bottom, so generally an x-ray is done.

Sadly, approximately two-thirds of the enviornment the truth is lacks internet admission to to diagnostic imaging. I wasn’t unsleeping about that, Elizabeth, however we appropriate extra or much less rob it without any consideration. Nonetheless ultrasound has been increasingly adopted in these low- and heart-profits countries on fable of it’s portable and it’s fully reasonable.

What these investigators did changed into they in contrast using ultrasonography or radiography for suspected pediatric distal forearm fractures. This changed into conducted in Australia. They recruited patients who were 5 to fifteen years of age. They presented to the emergency department with a forearm hurt with out clinically seen deformity and so they’d generally be referred to imaging. Half of the younger folks were referred to radiography, the quite lots of half were referred to ultrasonography, and then they adopted the head result on the head of 4 weeks to glance what the bodily characteristic changed into in the arm.

What they found changed into that the ratings at 4 weeks in those who had ultrasound were exactly the identical as those who had radiography. These ratings being the purposeful evaluate of the younger folks.

If any individual had ultrasonography and it looked esteem there changed into an like minded-to-appropriate enough break, then they went on to receive radiography — that changed into about 25% of the younger folks — and then they went on to internet a forged. This reveals that in teens and children with a distal forearm hurt, ultrasound will be outdated school as the initial diagnostic scheme and the outcomes will be appropriate as appropriate as routine radiography.

Elizabeth: I possess right here’s the truth is appropriate news. We’re each and each familiar, clearly, with appropriate the explosive speak of point-of-care ultrasound. It appears to be like esteem every person’s bought that. We’re moreover unsleeping of the undeniable truth that we’re making an strive to in the reduction of exposures to radiation and so it sounds esteem a internet-internet right here.

Rick: Yep, it is Elizabeth. Not most productive that, however it takes a radiologist the truth is to learn an x-ray. Nonetheless they the truth is had a diverse crew of healthcare practitioners who were trained in easy how one can learn the ultrasound. Physicians, nurse practitioners, and even physiotherapists learn the ultrasounds on this particular crew. I possess right here’s the truth is inviting. I wasn’t even unsleeping we were doing ultrasounds to make this prognosis. I’m delighted you picked this inspect.

Elizabeth: Shining. On that exhibit then, that is a inquire of at this week’s clinical headlines from Texas Tech. I’m Elizabeth Tracey.

Rick: I’m Rick Lange. Y’all hear up and make wholesome picks.

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“A Modern Awakening: How Gen Z Is Reshaping Spirituality”

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 Electric guitars and drums alongside a harmonium are placed at the center. Over the next hour, the rhythm pulsed like a club set, each chant building momentum the way a chorus does at a live concert. Around me, people swayed, clapped, and sang along, some with eyes closed, others smiling at one another. Yet, there were no chart-topping hits in the setlist. Instead, the evening unfolded through bhajans like Achyutam Keshavam and Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram.

Inside St Andrew’s Auditorium in Mumbai, the atmosphere felt like a curious fusion of part rave, part prayer. What might seem contradictory on paper felt surprisingly natural in practice: a distinctly Gen Z expression of spirituality that moves fluidly between kirtan gatherings, tarot circles, bhajan-inspired performances, and crystal pop-ups. According to Barkha Punjabi, a shamanic facilitator who works closely with younger clients, this generation is driven more by curiosity than convention. Rather than inheriting belief systems unquestioned, they are choosing to explore and interpret spirituality on their own terms.

For many young people today, spirituality is no longer confined to tradition or community expectations. Instead, it is approached almost like a creative pursuit, something to experiment with, adapt, and personalize. Punjabi notes that this shift reflects a broader desire to move beyond prescribed frameworks and discover meaning in ways that feel authentic and self-directed.

This evolution is particularly visible in the rising popularity of chant-led events. What once belonged to intimate, home-based gatherings is now finding space in ticketed venues and curated experiences. Performances by artists like Radhika Das, collectives such as Backstage Siblings, and initiatives like Kirtan Mumbai are drawing notably young audiences. These events offer something that feels both ancient and immediate, ritual reimagined through a contemporary lens.

For Meghna Siraj, co-creator of Kirtan Mumbai, this trend speaks to a deeper emotional landscape. Many young people, she explains, are navigating a sense of social, political, and personal. In that context, collective chanting becomes more than just a spiritual act; it becomes a grounding experience. When voices come together in unison, it creates a moment of stillness, a shared pause that fosters connection and belonging.

As these gatherings evolve, so too does their sound. Musicians are increasingly blending traditional kirtan with modern musical elements, creating an experience that feels immersive without losing its essence. As Baldev Maheshwari points out, this fusion does not necessarily dilute tradition when approached with care. Instead, it opens the door for those who might never step into a temple or attend a satsang, making spirituality more accessible and inclusive.

Not all expressions of this shift are as performative. In quieter settings, spirituality takes on more intimate forms through tarot readings, Reiki sessions, or curated crystal collections. These spaces offer a different kind of comfort: a sense of symbolism, reflection, and temporary grounding in an otherwise fast-moving world.

For individuals like Ishita Bangera, spirituality began as a response to overwhelm. Growing up amid constant digital engagement and societal pressure, practices like Reiki and tarot became tools for self-awareness and emotional balance. They provided not answers, but a framework for introspection, a way to reconnect with oneself in moments of disconnection.

This renewed interest in spirituality is perhaps unsurprising in the context of modern anxieties, climate uncertainty, economic pressures, and the relentless visibility of digital life. As Punjabi observes, many who turn to spirituality have already achieved conventional markers of success, only to find them insufficient. What they seek instead is a deeper, more enduring sense of fulfillment.

At the same time, spirituality today exists alongside logic and science rather than in opposition to them. Supported by the rise of therapy culture, mindfulness practices, and mental health awareness, it has become part of a broader ecosystem of self-regulation and well-being.

The satsangs of previous generations and today’s bhajan-infused gatherings may differ in form, sound, and setting. Yet, at their core, they share the same intent: to cultivate attention, surrender, and a sense of belonging. While the aesthetics have evolved, the underlying impulse remains unchanged: the timeless human desire to seek meaning.

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Blockchain Unlocked: Revolutionizing Modern Marketing with Unbreakable Trust and Transparency

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How Blockchain is Transforming Marketing in 2026: Real Impact, Persistent Challenges, and Actionable Steps

Blockchain, once primarily known for enabling secure digital payments, has evolved into a powerful tool for modern marketing. In 2026, amid stricter privacy regulations, the decline of third-party cookies, and rising concerns over data ownership, brands are turning to blockchain to build transparency, trust, and efficiency in their campaigns.

What is Blockchain and Why Does It Matter?

Blockchain is a decentralized digital ledger that records information across thousands of computers worldwide. Unlike traditional centralized databases, it operates as an immutable chain of blocks. Once data is added and verified by the network through consensus, it becomes nearly impossible to alter without majority agreement. This tamper-proof nature makes it ideal for verifying transactions, identities, and interactions of critical assets in today’s skeptical digital landscape.

Blockchain’s Disruption in Digital Marketing

The biggest shift lies in moving away from centralized data giants like Google, Meta, and Amazon toward privacy-first, decentralized ecosystems. With global regulations tightening and AI-generated deepfakes proliferating, blockchain offers verifiable, consent-driven data sharing that respects user privacy while enabling smarter targeting.

Real-World Example:

Imagine a customer buys running shoes from a retailer. With explicit opt-in consent, the purchase is recorded on a shared blockchain network. Partner brands can instantly access verified insights  without seeing raw personal data  and deliver relevant offers like fitness apparel or local race events across platforms. This reduces wasted ad spend and improves relevance in real time.

Greater Ad Transparency and Reduced Fraud

Ad fraud remains a massive drain on budgets, with estimates suggesting 25-30% of digital ad impressions wasted on bots. Blockchain addresses this by timestamping and recording every ad impression as a unique, verifiable transaction on an immutable ledger. Through consensus mechanisms, the network confirms genuine human interactions, making it extremely difficult to inflate numbers or create fake traffic.

Brands no longer need to blindly trust third party platforms. Instead, they gain full visibility into where ads appear and how audiences truly engage, ensuring every dollar delivers real value.

Eliminating Redundant and Annoying Ads

Blockchain also solves the frustration of repetitive advertising. When a customer completes a purchase on one platform, the updated record instantly syncs across participating networks. Other sites and partners automatically stop serving the same ad, reducing annoyance and cutting unnecessary costs for advertisers.

This creates a more efficient customer journey, allowing marketers to focus on meaningful frequency and better lead generation rather than over-exposure.

Real-World Impact

Major brands are already seeing results. Unilever, in partnership with IBM, has piloted blockchain solutions to enhance transparency in the advertising supply chain, helping verify genuine impressions and significantly reduce fraud. As interoperability between blockchains improves and industry standards mature, more success stories are emerging.

Challenges Ahead

Despite progress, challenges persist. Scalability issues, high implementation costs, complex integration across different blockchain networks, and evolving regulatory frameworks can slow adoption. Data privacy concerns and the need for widespread industry collaboration also remain hurdles.

Actionable Steps for Marketers

  1. Start Small: Pilot blockchain-based ad verification or loyalty programs with a single campaign or partner network.
  2. Prioritize Consent: Build opt-in mechanisms that give users control over their data. Transparency builds long-term trust.
  3. Focus on Partnerships: Join or explore industry consortia (such as those involving IBM or Mediaocean) for shared blockchain infrastructure.
  4. Measure ROI Clearly: Track metrics like reduced fraud rates, improved engagement quality, and lower redundant spend.
  5. Stay Educated: Monitor interoperability advancements and regulatory updates in 2026 to scale effectively.

Blockchain is no longer future hype; it is delivering measurable transparency and efficiency today. Marketers who embrace it strategically will gain a competitive edge in building authentic customer relationships while optimizing budgets in an increasingly privacy-conscious world.

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“Hepatitis Warning: How to Stop Infections from Turning into Chronic Liver Disease”

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Protect Your Liver: How Hepatitis Can Lead to Chronic Liver Disease and Simple Preventive Tips

Your liver is one of the hardest-working organs in your body, performing over 500 vital functions every day. Yet, it often goes unnoticed until something goes wrong. The truth is, you don’t get a second liver. Once it fails, the consequences can be life-threatening.

Liver diseases range from mild and reversible conditions to severe, terminal ones like chronic liver cirrhosis. Long-term inflammation caused by hepatitis viruses can silently damage liver cells, leading to scarring, hardening, and swelling. Over time, this impairs the liver’s ability to function, increasing the risk of serious complications.

Hepatitis infections, caused by different viruses (mainly A, B, and C), trigger inflammation in the liver. While some cases resolve on their own, others become chronic and progress to dangerous liver diseases. The good news? Many hepatitis infections and the resulting liver damage are preventable with simple lifestyle changes and precautions.

Here are six essential preventive tips to lower your risk of hepatitis and protect your liver health:

  1. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Obesity is a major risk factor for fatty liver disease, which can lead to cirrhosis. Adopt a balanced, low-fat diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Regular physical activity helps reduce fat buildup in the liver and supports overall liver function.

  1. Limit Alcohol Consumption

Excessive drinking is extremely harmful to the liver. Alcohol causes inflammation and swelling, speeds up liver damage, and significantly raises the risk of cirrhosis. If you drink, do so in moderation — or better yet, avoid it completely if you already have liver concerns.

  1. Be Careful with Medications

Many common medicines, including paracetamol (acetaminophen), aspirin, and ibuprofen (NSAIDs), can harm the liver when taken excessively or long-term. Always follow recommended doses. If you have existing liver issues, consult your doctor before taking supplements, herbal remedies, or high doses of vitamin A and iron, as some can be hepatotoxic.

  1. Get Vaccinated

Safe and effective vaccines are available for Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B. Completing the full vaccination course is one of the best ways to prevent these viral infections and protect your liver from long-term damage. Speak to your doctor about getting vaccinated, especially if you are at higher risk.

  1. Practice Good Personal Hygiene

Hepatitis A and E spread mainly through contaminated food and water. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before eating and after using the toilet. Drink clean, safe water and avoid raw or undercooked food, especially while travelling. Practice safe sex, never share needles or personal items (like razors or toothbrushes), and avoid direct contact with an infected person’s blood or bodily fluids.

  1. Eat a Liver-Friendly Diet

Support your liver by choosing nutrient-rich foods. Focus on fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources. Reduce intake of processed foods, fried items, and excessive fats. Eating smaller, balanced meals throughout the day can also ease the liver’s workload.

By adopting these habits, you can significantly reduce your risk of hepatitis infections and prevent chronic liver disease. Remember, early prevention is far better than dealing with advanced liver complications later.

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Bangladesh’s Measles Surge Raises Alarm: Are India’s Border States at Risk?

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With over 100 deaths reported, the outbreak highlights gaps in vaccination, and the risks of cross-border spread

A deadly measles outbreak in Bangladesh is raising fresh concerns across South Asia, especially in neighbouring India. With the virus known for its extreme contagiousness, health experts warn that no border is strong enough to stop its spread, particularly in communities with low vaccination coverage.

Bangladesh has reported 118 deaths, most of them children, since mid-March. According to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), more than 2,000 suspected cases are currently being treated in hospitals. Alarmingly, five deaths were recorded within just a 24-hour window, underscoring the rapid spread of the disease. Health experts in Bangladesh have linked the surge to disruptions in vaccination programs. Benazir Ahmed, a former director of disease control at DGHS, pointed to the cancellation of a key immunisation initiative, which created a vaccine shortage and left many children vulnerable. The situation is particularly concerning as the country had set a goal to eliminate measles and rubella by 2026.

Measles is one of the most contagious viral diseases, capable of spreading through air and direct contact. According to global health authorities, even a single infected individual can trigger an outbreak in under-vaccinated populations. Given the movement of people across borders, through travel, migration, and trade, the risk of transmission cannot be ignored.

Experts say India is well-prepared, but vigilance, vaccination, and hygiene remain critical to staying safe.

However, experts believe India is in a relatively strong position. Recent data shows that measles-rubella (MR) vaccination coverage in India stands above 90% for both doses. This high coverage has significantly reduced cases, with a 73% drop in measles infections recorded in 2024 compared to the previous year. Paediatrician Dr. Sanjeev Bagai notes that India’s long-standing immunisation efforts have built a solid defence. “The country has achieved a level of herd immunity, which offers protection at the community level,” he explains. Still, he cautions that risks remain due to global and regional movement, adding that air travel and migration can contribute to the spread, especially from regions with weaker healthcare systems. Despite this, experts stress that there is no immediate cause for panic, provided vigilance is maintained.

Protecting yourself and your family starts with vaccination. The MMR vaccine is highly effective, offering up to 97% lifelong immunity after two doses. Children should receive their first dose between 12–15 months and the second between 4–6 years, while unvaccinated adults should also consider getting immunised. Alongside vaccination, basic hygiene practices such as frequent handwashing, proper respiratory etiquette, and maintaining clean, well-ventilated spaces can significantly reduce the risk of infection. During outbreaks, it is advisable to avoid crowded or poorly ventilated areas and seek medical advice promptly if symptoms like fever, rash, or respiratory issues appear.

As Bangladesh battles a growing health crisis, the situation serves as a timely reminder that in an interconnected world, infectious diseases can travel fast, but with strong vaccination coverage and timely precautions, their impact can be contained.

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“Want Better Health? Start Adding These 8 Anti-Inflammatory Spices to Your Daily Meals”

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Add These 8 Powerful Anti-Inflammatory Spices to Your Meals and Transform Your Health

Anti-inflammatory eating doesn’t require a complete diet overhaul. In most Indian households, these potent spices have been used for generations in everyday meals from dals and subzis to curries, teas, and traditional home remedies. The real change comes from being more mindful and intentional about incorporating them regularly across your dishes. This simple habit offers a practical and sustainable way to support your body, especially in managing everyday low-grade inflammation caused by stress, poor sleep, processed foods, pollution, and fluctuating blood sugar levels.

What makes these spices even more valuable is that many are among the highest natural sources of antioxidants. They help the body fight oxidative stress, a key driver of chronic inflammation, premature ageing, and several lifestyle-related diseases.

The Benefits of Anti-Inflammatory Spices

“Inflammation increases when the body is constantly under stress from an unbalanced diet, lack of sleep, pollution, or repeated blood sugar spikes,” explains Aken Sanghavi, founder of CNTH (Apeiro Biosciences). “Over time, this leads to oxidative stress and cellular damage. Spices like turmeric, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger contain powerful bioactive compounds that help regulate these processes. They don’t eliminate inflammation entirely, but they prevent it from staying elevated for too long.”

This internal balance also shows visible results on the skin. “Any skin condition with an inflammatory root, such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, or pigmentation issues, can significantly improve when systemic inflammation is kept in check,” adds Sanghavi.

Here are eight of the most effective anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich spices commonly found in Indian kitchens:

  • Ranked among the highest antioxidant foods globally, cloves are rich in eugenol. They help reduce inflammation, combat oxidative stress, and support cellular health. Just a small pinch delivers powerful benefits.
  • Cinnamon is loaded with polyphenols, which help lower inflammation, stabilise blood sugar, and offer antibacterial properties that protect the body from long-term cellular damage.
  • Turmeric The crown jewel of Indian spices, turmeric’s curcumin is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound known for neutralising harmful free radicals.
  • Ginger: Thanks to gingerol, ginger provides strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It aids digestion, helps the body respond better to stress, and soothes internal inflammation.
  • Garlic Its sulfur compounds, especially allicin, reduce inflammation, boost immunity, support heart health, and fight oxidative damage.
  • Fenugreek is rich in flavonoids and polyphenols; fenugreek seeds offer excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits while supporting healthy blood sugar levels.
  • Cumin is a kitchen staple with strong antioxidant properties. Cumin aids digestion and helps combat daily inflammation.
  • Black Pepper Beyond adding flavour, black pepper contains piperine, which has its own anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Most importantly, it dramatically enhances the absorption of curcumin from turmeric.

Simple Daily Rules to Maximise Benefits

  • Always combine turmeric with black pepper for better absorption.
  • Use ginger and garlic as a cooking base.
  • Add high-antioxidant spices like cloves and cinnamon in small amounts.
  • Finish meals with digestive spices such as cumin or fennel.

“The real benefit comes from consistent, daily use as part of a balanced diet,” says Sanghavi. “When combined regularly, these spices help the body manage inflammation and daily wear and tear more effectively.”

At the same time, moderation is crucial. “These are bioactive compounds, not neutral ingredients,” cautions Atul Rajani, founder and chief innovation officer at Be. “In excess, especially in concentrated forms, they may irritate the gut or create imbalances.”

Rajani recommends a practical approach: “Start gradually, listen to your body, and keep portions reasonable. Even common spices like turmeric or chilli can trigger flare-ups in sensitive individuals if overused. Small, consistent habits  such as adding a pinch of turmeric with black pepper to your daily dal or rice  are what truly create lasting change.”

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“7 Rich Woody & Smoky Women’s Fragrances for a Darker Twist”

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Some women have moved on from smelling like a flower garden. They no longer want soft rose, peony, or overly sweet scents that fill a room before they do. Instead, they seek fragrances with depth and attitude, woody, smoky, spicy, and sometimes lightly leathery. These scents feel like putting on a sharp, tailored blazer or walking into a dimly lit bar: confident, mysterious, and quietly rebellious.

David Benedek, founder of BDK Parfums, doesn’t believe in strictly dividing fragrances by gender. “All aromas in perfumery are genderless,” he says. “A man can love florals, just as a woman can love woody and smoky profiles. It’s about what feels right for you.”

Woody and smoky notes offer a unique strength on the skin. Sandalwood, cedarwood, and vetiver bring a grounded, quietly luxurious feel that lasts. Smoky accents tobacco, incense, guaiac wood, or dark amber add warmth, intensity, and intrigue. Even oud, when masterfully blended, can range from bold and animalic to soft and sensual.

These fragrances are also surprisingly versatile. Clean, lighter woody scents work beautifully during the day for a polished, sophisticated presence. Richer, smokier compositions come alive at night, ideal for dinners, dates, weddings, or any occasion where you want your perfume to feel like a statement.

If you’re tired of traditional florals and ready for something with real character and backbone, here are seven exceptional woody and smoky women’s fragrances:

1. Guerlain Tabac Sahara – ₹20,350 Smoky tobacco meets juicy raspberry and warm ambergris. Rich, spiced, and nocturnal  like berries smoked over glowing embers.

2. Tom Ford Soleil Neige – ₹12,900 Cool and refined with a dark edge. Bright bergamot and white florals are deepened by resinous labdanum, benzoin, and musk for an ambery, luxurious twist.

3. Kilian Paris Angels’ Share On The Rocks – ₹21,500 Boozy cognac, bitter orange, cinnamon, myrrh, and oak deliver a warm, ambered depth with a crisp, chilled edge. Intoxicating and bold.

4. Ajmal Perfumes Strings Of Oud – ₹8,000 Cardamom, wormwood, and pepper open into layers of incense, tobacco, cedar, and bourbon vanilla. A plush, smoky oriental-woody delight.

5. BDK Parfums Nuit De Sable – ₹21,000 Dry and seductive. Cardamom, nutmeg, cumin, and hot sand blend with Turkish rose and a warm base of sandalwood, tonka, and ambroxan for spiced, desert warmth.

6. Marc Jacobs Fragrances Perfect Absolute – ₹12,995 Caramelised fig and jasmine absolu rest on a rich amber base, creating a lush, sensual, and grounded warmth.

7. Jo Malone London Amber Labdanum – ₹17,900 Bitter orange lifts the top while labdanum, roasted oak, vanilla, and amber build a deep, resinous, smoky base. Perfect evening elegance.

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Health

Inside the $550 Million Deal Fueling America’s Data Center Gold Rush

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A Hyperscaler Partnership That Signals a Massive Shift in Digital Infrastructure

What if the next big tech revolution wasn’t just about chips, code, or cloud, but about where people sleep, eat, and live? As artificial intelligence and cloud computing explode at an unprecedented pace, a surprising player is stepping into the spotlight. Target Hospitality Corp. has just landed a staggering $550 million contract, not to build servers, but to build the human backbone behind them. And in doing so, it may have unlocked one of the most overlooked opportunities in the booming data center economy.

The Texas-based company has signed a multi-year lease and services agreement with a top-five hyperscaler, one of the global giants driving the digital age, to support a sprawling data center campus in North Texas. The deal guarantees over $550 million in revenue through early 2031, with options extending to 2035 and the potential to generate an additional $20–$40 million annually once the facility reaches full capacity.

This isn’t just a contract, it’s a clear signal that the data center boom is entering a new phase, where infrastructure goes far beyond machines.

From Workforce Housing to 4,000-Person Smart Communities

At the core of this deal lies an ambitious vision: building an entire purpose-designed community to house nearly 4,000 workers. But this isn’t your typical accommodation setup. It’s a fully integrated, self-sustaining ecosystem built to support the demanding needs of large-scale, remote digital infrastructure projects.

Construction is already underway, with first occupancy expected by the third quarter of 2026 and full completion slated for mid-2027. To deliver this, Target Hospitality plans to invest between $115 million and $125 million, with the majority of capital deployed in 2026.

What makes this project stand out is its all-encompassing approach. Beyond housing, the company will provide food services, logistics, security, laundry, and recreational facilities, essentially creating a mini-city tailored for a modern, mobile workforce powering the digital economy.

This marks a major strategic shift for Target Hospitality, which has traditionally catered to the energy and government sectors. Now, it is rapidly repositioning itself at the heart of the tech infrastructure boom. As hyperscalers expand aggressively to keep up with AI and cloud demand, the need for scalable workforce solutions is skyrocketing, and Target Hospitality is capitalizing on that gap.

The financial upside is already becoming evident. The company has raised its 2026 revenue forecast to between $360 million and $370 million, with adjusted EBITDA projected at $70 million to $80 million. By mid-2027, it expects annual revenues to exceed $500 million, driven largely by this landmark deal.

Investors are paying close attention. The company’s stock has delivered strong returns over the past year, reflecting growing confidence in its evolving business model and long-term growth potential.

In many ways, this deal captures a larger transformation underway. The digital economy isn’t just being built in data centers, it’s being built around them. And as the demand for data surges, companies like Target Hospitality are proving that even in a tech-driven world, people, and the infrastructure that supports them, remain at the center of it all.

 

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Escape to Chefchaouen: A Magical Day in Morocco’s Blue City

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Chefchaouen: Morocco’s Famous Blue City – The Ultimate Day Trip Guide

Tucked into the Rif Mountains of northern Morocco, Chefchaouen is one of the country’s most iconic destinations. Known worldwide as “The Blue City,” this charming mountain town features streets, buildings, and alleyways painted in every shade of blue from soft sky tones to deep cobalt.
You can easily visit Chefchaouen as a day trip from Fes or Tangier. While many travelers choose to stay overnight, a well-planned day trip is more than enough to experience its highlights.
This guide covers everything you need to know: how to reach the Blue City, what to see, best photo spots, and honest travel advice.

Best Way to Visit Chefchaouen

I visited Chefchaouen on a day trip from Fes and highly recommend doing the same. The most convenient and hassle-free option is joining an organized tour.
Recommended Tour:
I booked my day trip through GetYourGuide for just $26 USD. The package included comfortable minivan transportation, a local guide, and about 4 hours to explore the city. It was excellent value and very well organized.
Book Here: Chefchaouen Day Trip from Fes or Tangier

How to Get to Chefchaouen

From Fes
  • By Public Bus: The journey takes around 4 hours. Buses are a safe, comfortable, and affordable mode of transportation, with multiple daily departures operated by CTM and other companies.
  • Private Driver: Faster and more comfortable than the bus. Ideal if you’re traveling with friends and can split the cost. You can arrange this through your hotel or book online.
From Tangier
Tangier is much closer the drive takes only about 2.5 hours.
  • Public buses (CTM) run several times a day and are the cheapest option.
  • Private transfers and shared day tours are also widely available.

What to Expect in Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen is compact and very walkable. Most visitors enter through Bab El Ain, the main gate of the medina. The town has a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere compared to the busier Moroccan cities of Marrakech or Fes.
Be prepared for some uphill walking and stairs, as many alleys are sloped. If you’re traveling with luggage from the bus station, a short taxi ride to the medina gate is recommended.
While generally safe and friendly, you may encounter a few local touts. The town is picturesque but not spotless you’ll see stray cats and dogs, and some areas could use better maintenance.

Best Photo Spots in Chefchaouen

These are the most Instagrammable locations:
  • Alley of Colored Pots (Derb El Assri): The most famous blue alley, decorated with hanging pots and vibrant colors.
  • Orange Juice Shop: A charming spot with plastic oranges hanging overhead. Great for photos and fresh juice.
  • Solid Blue Alley: Pure blue walls and doors  perfect for clean, minimalist shots.
  • Place El Haouta: A scenic square with a fountain and beautiful mountain views.
  • Mural Street: Quirky street art featuring Greek Santorini-style murals.
  • Magic Lamp House of Aladdin: Excellent rooftop views over the blue medina.

Other Attractions Worth Seeing

  • The Kasbah: The historic fortress built in 1471. Climb the tower for panoramic views of the town.
  • Ras El Maa Waterfall: A short uphill walk from the medina. A peaceful spot to relax.
  • Bouzafer Mosque (Spanish Mosque): Offers one of the best viewpoints over Chefchaouen. Many tours stop here for photos.

How Long Should You Stay?

Four hours in Chefchaouen is usually sufficient to explore the medina, take photos, and enjoy a meal. While some people choose to overnight here, I personally found a day trip perfectly adequate. From Fes it’s a long day (8+ hours of driving), but from Tangier you’ll have more time to enjoy the town.

Is Chefchaouen Worth Visiting?

Yes — but with realistic expectations.
Chefchaouen is beautiful and unique, but it’s not as pristine or magical as it appears on social media. The blue alleys are lovely, yet the town has stray animals, some trash, and isn’t as polished as Santorini. Lower your expectations slightly, and you’ll have a wonderful time wandering its colorful streets.

Why Is Chefchaouen Painted Blue?

The exact reason remains a mystery. Popular theories suggest the blue color repels mosquitoes, symbolizes the sky and sea, or was painted to attract visitors. Whatever the reason, it has certainly worked  Chefchaouen has become one of Morocco’s most photographed destinations.

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Fashion

The Real Story of Fashion in Northeast India Goes Far Beyond Beauty Pageants and Thrift Clichés

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For years, the narrative around fashion in Northeast India has remained frustratingly narrow. The region’s style has often been reduced to three tired clichés: cultural shows, beauty pageants, and the romanticised myth of thrift shopping. While none are entirely untrue, they fail to capture the complete picture.
The first Aizawl Design Project proved just how outdated these assumptions have become. Its debut public event, the Zoram Fashion Showcase, held on March 10 at LPS Arena in Aizawl, started from a sharper premise: the people of the hills must author their own cultural narrative. For decades, Mizoram’s crafts and visual language have been romanticised and interpreted largely through an external gaze.
The collections, styled by Aizawl-born stylist James Lalthanzuala, featured three distinct Mizo designers,  Hannah Khiangte, Lapâr, and Escape Engmoia  each working with the indigenous Zo puan textile of Mizoram and neighbouring regions. Held in Aizawl, the showcase recalibrated what fashion from Northeast India could look like when creatives move beyond traditional expectations of how indigenous textiles should be worn and celebrated.
The event was conceived and curated by Lal Moya, a Mizo creative based in Washington DC. “As a Mizo creative, I have always believed our designers deserve the same level of staging and presentation seen anywhere in the world,” he said. “The talent has always been here. What we needed was the platform and the courage to present it properly.”
For decades, fashion from the Northeast has shouldered the burden of representation. Clothes were expected to signify tribe, tradition, identity, or solidarity, while experimentation and self-expression often took a backseat. The Aizawl Design Project instead highlighted a new generation of creatives who no longer feel bound by that obligation.
These designers are treating indigenous textiles as living, adaptable materials rather than frozen artefacts. “My collection draws from the idea of Khawtlang Lunglen,” says Hannah Khiangte. “We Zo descendants are melancholic people  the evidence is all over our songs and literature.” Her punk-infused take on yearning featured frayed hems, sharp cuffs, stiff tailoring, and rose appliqués in warm sienna and canary tones, evoking the afterglow of a fading summer day over Aizawl’s hills. Founded in 2013, her label is now sought after by top stylists like Rhea Kapoor, with the aim of taking Mizo weaves to a global stage.
Lapâr, established in 2017 by Patricia Zadeng (a National Institute of Design graduate with experience at Rahul Mishra and Maku Textiles), champions local women weavers through back-strap loin loom techniques. Her collection explored colonial influences from the arrival of missionaries in the late 19th century, reimagining traditional drapes in dandy forms  wraparound skirts paired with shirts and ties, and boxy blouses reworked with matching trousers.
Escape Engmoia, whose name reflects fashion as an escape from everyday life, drew inspiration directly from Mizoram’s landscape. Having represented Indian textiles internationally, his collection translated the region’s hairpin bends and hilly slopes into asymmetric cuts, woven floral patterns, and generous layering  making each look feel like Mizoram itself.
This showcase did not erase cultural heritage. Instead, it placed Zo puan and Northeast Indian fashion firmly within the broader global conversation. Indigenous textiles and techniques became part of a wider creative toolkit rather than mere spectacle for traditional parades or pageants.
The most powerful shift is clear: fashion from the Northeast is no longer seeking validation through cultural tokens. Designers are building their own communities, creating their own platforms, and shaping their own visual identities. The region’s fashion scene has always brimmed with unbridled style. Now, it is finally gaining the space to experiment, evolve, and exist beyond narrow scripts.

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The Rise of Micro-Entrepreneurs: How Small Businesses Are Winning in a Big Market

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What if the next big business success story isn’t a billion-dollar startup, but a one-person brand run entirely from a smartphone?

Across the world, a quiet revolution is taking shape. Micro-entrepreneurs, individuals or very small teams building lean, focused businesses, are challenging traditional ideas of scale and success. They may not have massive budgets or corporate infrastructure, but they are proving that in today’s digital economy, small can be incredibly powerful.

Breaking Barriers: How Technology Is Empowering the Smallest Players

Not long ago, launching a business required significant capital, physical infrastructure, and access to networks that were often out of reach for many. Today, the rules have changed dramatically. With just a laptop or a phone, entrepreneurs can build brands, reach global audiences, and generate revenue.

Social media platforms have evolved into full-fledged marketplaces. Payment systems have simplified transactions, and logistics networks have made delivery faster and more reliable than ever. What was once exclusive to large corporations is now accessible to individuals with determination and a clear idea.

But access to tools is only part of the story.

Micro-entrepreneurs are thriving because they know how to use these tools differently. They don’t just sell products, they build narratives. Whether it’s a handmade clothing label, a niche consulting service, or a homegrown food brand, these businesses are rooted in authenticity. They communicate directly with their customers, respond quickly, and create a sense of belonging that larger brands often struggle to replicate.

In a world saturated with choices, this personal touch stands out.

The Power of Connection and Agility in a Fast-Moving Market

One of the biggest advantages micro-entrepreneurs have is their ability to move fast. Without layers of management or lengthy approval processes, they can test ideas, adapt to trends, and refine their offerings almost instantly.

This agility allows them to stay ahead in a market that is constantly evolving. While larger companies may take months to respond to a shift in consumer behavior, micro-entrepreneurs can pivot in days, or even hours. That responsiveness creates relevance, and relevance drives growth.

Equally important is the emotional connection they build with their audience. Today’s consumers are not just buying products, they are buying stories, values, and experiences. Supporting a small business often feels more meaningful, more human. It’s not just a transaction; it’s a connection.

This shift in consumer mindset has created a powerful advantage for micro-entrepreneurs. People are increasingly drawn to brands that feel real, transparent, and purpose-driven. And that’s exactly what small businesses excel at delivering.

Of course, the journey isn’t without its challenges. Limited resources, financial uncertainty, and the pressure of managing every aspect of the business can be demanding. Yet, for many, the rewards go beyond profits. The ability to create, control, and grow something independently is a compelling motivator.

The rise of micro-entrepreneurs reflects a deeper transformation in how success is defined. It’s no longer just about size or scale, it’s about impact, flexibility, and authenticity.

So the next time you come across a small brand online, pause for a moment. Behind it could be a single individual redefining the rules of business, and quietly proving that even in a big market, small can win.

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