Nuclear power – it’s a term that ignites various emotions. From its undeniable potential to the challenges it poses, this energy source remains a focal point of global discussion. As you browse through the offerings on AfricaNova, it’s time to shed light on nuclear power, specifically focusing on its potential benefits, the intricacies of...
The quest to quit smoking has seen many turn to vaping, hoping it might be the answer. But how effective are e-cigarettes really? Australia’s Health Minister Mark Butler’s recent policy announcement aimed to curtail vaping among minors and nonsmokers, while simultaneously offering a nicotine fix for those trying to quit. The rationale? There’s a...
Honey, that golden elixir, isn’t merely a delightful sweetener. Recent scientific explorations back what ancient civilizations, including Greece and some African communities, have known for centuries: honey possesses medicinal properties. From Aristotle to Modern Science Aristotle, way back in 350BC, recognized the potential of different honeys in addressing various diseases. While this knowledge has...
Have you ever wondered why a pinch of salt can transform a dish from average to extraordinary? Let’s uncover the science behind this culinary phenomenon. It’s essential to note that “saltiness” is one of the primary basic flavors detected by our taste buds, alongside bitter, sweet, sour, and umami. Salt has the remarkable ability...
In the picturesque terrains of Papua New Guinea, the Fore people had lived harmoniously for centuries. However, in the 20th century, they became the epicenter of a terrifying neurological epidemic called Kuru, a name that invokes trembling. 1. An Enigmatic Epidemic Symptoms began subtly: headaches, joint pain, tremors, progressing to uncoordinated movements, uncontrollable laughter,...
Amidst the wealth of pregnancy advice, discussions about the nuances of cesarean sections can often be overlooked. Whether it’s a planned procedure or an unexpected requirement, understanding the essentials of cesarean delivery is crucial for informed decision-making and emotional preparedness. Why Cesareans Happen Cesarean sections, although commonly performed for medical emergencies, can also be...
When South African surgeon Christiaan Barnard performed the world’s first human heart transplant in 1967, it changed medicine forever. Fast forward a few years, and we come across a gripping story from Barstow Hospital. A young baby, Stephanie Fae Beauclair, affectionately known as Baby Fae, was diagnosed with a rare heart condition. With a...
Well-known South African TV figure Derek Watts recently battled sepsis, shocking fans with news that he’d have to relearn walking. This harrowing condition, where the body’s response to infection goes into overdrive, can lead to severe complications, even death. Ina Skosana from The Conversation Africa delves into sepsis, drawing insights from pathologists at the...
Oral health took center stage in 2012, with a strong emphasis on brushing after meals, regular dental visits, and early intervention. This, however, wasn’t always our reality. Dentistry’s evolution, while significant, sometimes stands overshadowed by other scientific advancements. The ancient Indus Valley Civilization, tracing back to nearly 7000 B.C., provides some of the earliest...