Science
From mathematics and AI to medicine and psychology, The Optimist Daily features the latest news on discoveries, technological advances, and breakthroughs in the world of science. Our Science section is here to engage and enlighten you.
Extinction rates are slowing—and conservation efforts may be paying off
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM For years, headlines have warned that Earth is entering a sixth mass extinction. But new research suggests that this dire picture may be more nuanced, and even somewhat hopeful. A study by Kristen Saban and John Wiens of the University of Arizona's Read More...
Peanut allergies drop in kids thanks to new early feeding guidelines
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM A profound change in pediatric nutrition is paying off: newly released research confirms that introducing peanut products to babies as young as four months is not only safe, it’s effective in preventing potentially life-threatening peanut Read More...
Maldives sets a global milestone by ending mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In a major step forward for public health, the Maldives achieved what no other country has done before: it has eliminated mother-to-child transmission (EMTCT) of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B. Recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), this Read More...
New dementia research highlights two surprising risk factors you can address today
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Dementia research is evolving quickly, and the latest findings offer more actionable steps for prevention. A 2024 report in The Lancet has added two more items to the list of modifiable risk factors for dementia: untreated vision loss and high cholesterol Read More...
A one-time gene therapy is helping kids beat a deadly immune disease
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM For children born with ADA-SCID, a rare genetic disease that severely compromises the immune system, everyday germs can be fatal. ADA-SCID (short for severe combined immunodeficiency due to adenosine deaminase deficiency) leaves the body unable to fight off Read More...
A new path for Alzheimer’s: Scientists reverse cognitive decline in mice by repairing the brain's natural defenses
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In a development that could redefine how we approach Alzheimer’s treatment, researchers successfully reversed symptoms of the disease in mice by repairing the brain’s own vascular defenses. Using a novel nanotechnology-based approach, scientists from Read More...
How fungi may transform the future of construction
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In a quiet lab in the Netherlands, Professor Han Wösten holds up what looks like a spongy brick. It may not seem like much at first glance, but this block, made from the rooting networks of fungi, could be a window into the future of sustainable Read More...
Concrete that powers cities? Scientists turn ancient material into giant batteries
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Concrete is one of civilization's oldest building blocks as well as one of its most ubiquitous. From bridges and buildings to sidewalks and stadiums, it forms the backbone of modern life. Now, researchers are reimagining this ancient material not just as Read More...
Low-dose aspirin may cut risk of colorectal cancer returning in key patients, study shows
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM A low-cost, widely available drug might offer major protection against one of the most common cancers worldwide. New research out of Sweden suggests that a low daily dose of aspirin could significantly reduce the chance of colorectal cancer returning after Read More...
World’s first Indigenous-led ocean reserve is one step closer to reality
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM An extraordinary marine conservation initiative has taken a major step forward in the Pacific. The Melanesian Ocean Reserve, a proposed Indigenous-led marine protected area, will span over six million square kilometers (more than 2.3 million square miles) of Read More...