Walk down any supermarket aisle in America, and chances are you’ll find titanium dioxide hiding in plain sight. It's in your chewing gum, your...

At first glance, black licorice seems like just another nostalgic candy—rich, sweet, and deeply flavored. But beneath its seemingly innocent exterior lies a lesser-known risk that can turn a beloved treat into a health hazard. The story took a tragic turn in 2020, when a 54-year-old man in Massachusetts died after consuming an excessive amount of black licorice. How could a candy lead to such a severe outcome? The answer lies in the science behind this unique confection. The Toxicology of Licorice: Dose Matters As Paracelsus, the father of toxicology, famously said, “The dose makes the poison.” Black licorice contains a compound called glycyrrhizin (also known as glycyrrhizic acid), extracted from the root of the licorice plant...

In an era marked by profound social shifts, many men find themselves grappling with questions about identity and purpose. With Mars— the planet symbolizing masculine energy and assertiveness— actively influencing our skies this month, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on what truly defines masculinity today and how men can reclaim their power in a way that honors both themselves and the evolving world around them. The Crisis of Modern Masculinity For some men, the upheaval brought by changing gender roles has triggered feelings of loss and confusion. Traditionally, patriarchal structures offered men a clear (though limiting) script: dominance, control, and unquestioned authority. Now, as women assert their long-denied freedom and voice, some men feel cast adrift,...

Summer break often sparks a question for families: how can we keep children engaged and learning while school is out? For many kids, exploring science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) can be a fun and enriching way to do just that. Yet recent federal cuts to education and research funding have made access to formal STEM programs like robotics camps or advanced math classes less available for many children. This shift places more responsibility on families and caregivers to nurture curiosity and problem-solving skills at home. Drawing on research and real-world examples, here are four practical and playful ways parents and caregivers can support children’s STEM learning during the summer—fostering confidence, creativity, and critical thinking. 1. Identify...