On August 21, the Washington Post reports, Beverly Bryan was waiting for her husband's return from surgery at a Florida hospital. Herself a retired nurse, she knew what laparoscopic splenectomy is. A simple procedure to remove the spleen. The surgeon too assured her that it would be quick, but it all turned out the other way around. That was the last time she saw her husband alive.

Six months later, she filed a wrongful death and medical malpractice lawsuit against the surgeon Dr Thomas J. Shaknovsky, and Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast Hospital. She alleged that the doctor had mistakenly removed husband's liver instead of his spleen. This is what led to his death. She also accused the hospital of conspiring to cover up the mistake by falsifying medical records, including death certificates.

The Cover-Up

If one reads the 114-page long lawsuit, they would find that the surgeon has a history of surgical errors, including a previous incident from 2023, where he had operated wrong. This resulted in a $400,000 settlement. Despite this, the hospital allowed him to continue performing surgeries, putting patients at risk.

She said that she thoroughly researched the history the doctor had and about all the other previous cases he had operated on. This is when she realized that the doctor had a history of malpractice. It is with this evidence, she hopes that her case will push for increased transparency in tracking medical errors.

Shaknovsky however did not respond to any media requests, reports the Washington Post. However, he admitted to state investigators that he could not identify the organ he removed due to "shock and chaos" in the operating room. However, Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo determined in September that Shaknovsky was "deceptive and untrue" during the investigation, leading to the immediate suspension of his medical license.

Pressurising To Undergo Surgery

The lawsuit also mentions that her husband, Bill, initially resisted surgery. It wasn't until he felt excruciating pain that he finally got an MRI scan and knew that he needed his spleen to be removed. However, even then, the couple requested for a transfer to a better facility.

Shaknovsky and hospital staff allegedly pressured them to stay, warning that Bill could bleed to death if they attempted the 400-mile journey home to Alabama. After two days of persistent urging, Bryan reluctantly signed a consent form on August 21, and surgery began later that afternoon.

The Error In The Surgery

Shaknovsky reportedly started with a minimally invasive laparoscopic approach but soon switched to open surgery due to poor visibility. According to the lawsuit, he operated on the right side of Bill’s body—where the liver is located—rather than the left side, where the spleen is typically found.

He allegedly removed the liver instead of the spleen and it severed a major vein and caused fatal blood loss. He handed the organ to a nurse and asked her to label it "spleen", even though the size was ten times a typical spleen. The suit also claims that other staff members recognized the mistake but did not intervene.

The senior hospital officials allegedly participated in a cover-up and documented that spleen was removed. The surgeon also left and returned to the operating room claiming and insisting that Bill died from a “splenic aneurysm.” When informing Bryan of her husband’s passing, he falsely claimed Bill had an enlarged spleen that had shifted to the wrong side of his body.

A hospital nurse allegedly misled Bryan into signing a waiver to forgo an autopsy. The cover-up unraveled when the district medical examiner conducted an autopsy and discovered that Bill’s spleen was still intact while his liver had been removed. The medical examiner ruled the death a homicide due to blood loss from the botched surgery.

Ayurveda, the ancient system of natural healing, has long been trusted for addressing concerns such as stress and depression. However, many people may not realize that it also offers effective solutions for maintaining optimal dental health and treating various oral issues. One of the key products used here is neem.

Neem (Azadirachta indica) has been a cornerstone of Ayurvedic dental care for centuries due to its antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Incorporating neem into your oral hygiene routine may help achieve naturally whiter teeth while promoting overall oral health.

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So How Does Neem Enhance Dental Health?

Natural Teeth Whitening

Neem contains compounds like nimbolide, azadirachtin, and nimbidin, which possess astringent properties that aid in removing stains and plaque buildup. "These natural components help brighten teeth, leading to a healthier smile," explains Dr. Ganesh Chaudhary, Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery, PHC, Darbhanga, Bihar.

Antibacterial Action

Neem’s strong antibacterial properties help combat harmful bacteria responsible for plaque buildup, gum disease, and bad breath. "Using neem-based toothpaste or mouthwash can control bacterial growth, supporting oral hygiene and preventing infections," says Dr. Chaudhary.

Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

Gum inflammation can contribute to oral health issues and discoloration of teeth. "Neem’s anti-inflammatory properties reduce gum inflammation, supporting overall gum health and creating a healthier oral environment," Dr. Chaudhary notes.

Prevention of Common Dental Issues

Regular use of neem in oral care can help prevent common dental problems such as cavities, gingivitis, and periodontal disease, all of which can impact the appearance of teeth. "By maintaining strong oral health, neem indirectly contributes to whiter teeth," Dr. Chaudhary states.

Fresher Breath

Neem’s antibacterial properties not only fight odor-causing bacteria but also leave the mouth feeling refreshed. This can contribute to long-lasting fresh breath and improved oral hygiene.

How To Use Neem To Enhance Your Dental Health?

Neem Toothpaste

Opt for toothpaste containing neem extract or neem oil. "Brushing with neem-based toothpaste can naturally promote oral health and whiten teeth," says Dr. Chaudhary.

Neem Mouthwash

Using a neem-based mouthwash after brushing can help eliminate bacteria, cleanse the mouth, and freshen breath effectively.

Neem Chewing Sticks (Miswak)

Chewing on neem sticks, also known as Miswak or Siwak, is a traditional practice that naturally cleans teeth. The fibers in neem sticks help remove plaque, while their antibacterial properties support oral hygiene.

Neem Oil Pulling

Oil pulling, an Ayurvedic practice of swishing oil in the mouth, can be enhanced by using neem oil. "Neem oil pulling helps whiten teeth, reduce plaque, and promote gum health," Dr. Chaudhary recommends.

Important Considerations

While neem is generally safe for oral use, some individuals may experience sensitivity or allergic reactions. A patch test before extensive use is advisable.

Incorporating neem into your dental routine offers a natural way to achieve whiter teeth while supporting overall oral health. However, maintaining good oral hygiene practices—such as regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups—remains essential for optimal results.

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There is no denying that we've all grown up listening to idioms that refer to sleep as something unproductive. For years, society has glorified the idea of sacrificing rest to achieve more, pushing the narrative that success comes at the cost of sleep. However, as cases of sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleep apnea, and chronic fatigue increase, health experts are raising serious concerns about the repercussions of sleep deprivation. Recent research has now revealed an alarming consequence—when deprived of sleep, the brain quite literally starts eating itself.

A study published in *The Journal of Neuroscience* has uncovered that prolonged wakefulness leads to the brain consuming its own healthy cells. Researchers found that astrocytes, which are responsible for maintaining and repairing the brain, become overly aggressive in trimming unnecessary synapses. While this process is beneficial in moderation, chronic sleep deprivation causes astrocytes to over-prune, damaging essential neural connections instead of just clearing out the excess. This means that rather than helping the brain function efficiently, persistent lack of sleep triggers its deterioration over time.

Additionally, the study found that microglia—the brain’s immune cells—become hyperactive due to sleep deprivation. Normally, microglia work to clear out harmful debris, bacteria, and dead cells to protect the brain from infections and inflammation. However, when sleep is consistently disrupted, these immune cells remain in a prolonged state of activation. This sustained hyperactivity may lead to chronic inflammation in the brain, which has been linked to several neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

The consequences of sleep deprivation extend far beyond just feeling fatigued. Over time, the cumulative damage caused by these changes in brain activity may accelerate cognitive decline, impair memory, and increase the risk of developing neurological disorders. Alarmingly, researchers also observed that chronic sleep loss contributes to overall brain shrinkage. This suggests that deep, consistent sleep is one of the most powerful ways to preserve long-term cognitive health and prevent irreversible damage.

It is well known that sleep plays a crucial role in clearing out toxins from the brain, consolidating memory, and regulating emotions. Losing too much of it can disrupt these essential functions, potentially leading to mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. Furthermore, studies suggest that sleep deprivation affects decision-making skills and reaction times, increasing the likelihood of accidents and poor judgment.

With the rise of digital distractions, work pressure, and social commitments, people are sleeping less than ever before. However, these new findings reinforce the importance of prioritizing quality sleep. Experts suggest that maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, reducing screen exposure before bed, and practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation or reading can significantly improve sleep quality.

While we may be tempted to trade sleep for productivity, the science is clear—skimping on rest can have serious long-term effects on brain health. If chronic sleep deprivation continues, the brain may begin to deteriorate at an accelerated pace, making it more susceptible to cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases. In the end, investing in proper sleep is not just about feeling rested; it’s about ensuring that the brain remains strong and resilient for years to come.

When we talk about rice, we mostly talk about white or brown. However, not many people know that there is a black-purple coloured variant of this called Black rice. Packed with nutrients, this variant owes its purple colour to a pigment called anthocyanin, which has potent antioxidant properties. Intrestingly, in ancient China, black rice was considered so unique and nutritious that it was forbidden for everyone beyond royalty.

What's Special About Black Rice?

1. A Rich Source of Essential Nutrients

Black rice stands out among rice varieties due to its high protein content. In comparison to brown rice, which contains 7 grams of protein per 100 grams, black rice offers 9 grams. It is also a valuable source of iron, a mineral crucial for oxygen transport in the body.

A quarter cup (45 grams) of uncooked black rice provides:

Calories: 160

Fat: 1.5 grams

Protein: 4 grams

Carbohydrates: 34 grams

Fiber: 1 gram

Iron: 6% of the Daily Value (DV)

2. High in Antioxidants

Beyond its protein and fiber content, black rice is rich in antioxidants—compounds that help combat oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and cancer. Studies indicate that black rice has the highest antioxidant activity among rice varieties, containing over 23 beneficial plant compounds, including flavonoids and carotenoids.

3. Contains Anthocyanins for Added Health Benefits

Anthocyanins, the flavonoid pigments responsible for black rice’s dark hue, are known for their potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. Research suggests that consuming anthocyanin-rich foods can lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and obesity.

4. Supports Heart Health

Though research on black rice and heart health is ongoing, its flavonoids have been linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. Some studies suggest that anthocyanins can improve cholesterol levels by increasing HDL (good) cholesterol and reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol. While further research is needed, early findings suggest black rice may help reduce plaque buildup in arteries.

5. Potential Anticancer Properties

Black rice’s anthocyanins may also play a role in cancer prevention. Population studies show that higher intake of anthocyanin-rich foods is associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer. Additionally, laboratory research suggests that anthocyanins from black rice can inhibit the growth and spread of breast cancer cells. However, more human studies are needed to confirm these effects.

6. Promotes Eye Health

Black rice contains significant amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin, two antioxidants that protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals. These compounds help filter harmful blue light and may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. Animal studies suggest anthocyanins may also protect the retina, though human research is still limited.

7. Naturally Gluten-Free

For individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, black rice offers a nutritious, gluten-free alternative to many whole grains. It provides essential nutrients without triggering digestive issues associated with gluten-containing grains like wheat, barley, and rye.

8. May Aid in Weight Management

Black rice’s high protein and fiber content can promote satiety, potentially aiding in weight management. Some animal studies suggest that anthocyanins may help reduce body fat, though human studies are still limited. A study found that consuming a mix of black and brown rice led to greater weight loss compared to eating white rice.

9. Additional Health Benefits

May Help Regulate Blood Sugar: Animal studies suggest that black rice may aid in blood sugar control, though human trials are required for confirmation.

Supports Liver Health: Research on mice indicates that black rice may reduce fat accumulation in the liver, potentially lowering the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

10. Easy to Cook and Versatile

Cooking black rice is similar to preparing other rice varieties. Simply combine the rice with water or broth, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30–35 minutes until tender. To achieve a fluffier texture, rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch.

Black rice can be used in various dishes, including grain bowls, stir-fries, salads, and desserts like rice pudding.