In the study, researchers exposed human brain blood vessel cells to erythritol in amounts similar to what people might consume in everyday products. What they found was concerning.
The sweetener seemed to affect how the blood vessels in the brain work. Specifically, erythritol makes the cells produce less nitric oxide, a molecule that helps blood vessels relax and remain flexible.
It also increased the production of endothelin-1, which causes blood vessels to tighten. This combination could make blood vessels more prone to constriction, a condition that can increase the risk of serious issues like strokes.
The study also showed that erythritol could affect the body’s ability to dissolve blood clots naturally. The cells exposed to erythritol produced less t-PA, a natural compound that helps break down clots. Additionally, the erythritol exposure led to higher levels of free radicals, which are harmful molecules that can damage cells and tissues, potentially contributing to other health problems like heart disease.
While this research was conducted on cells in a lab, the results align with previous studies that suggest higher levels of erythritol in the bloodstream are linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular events, like heart attacks and strokes.
Because of these findings, the researchers are urging people to be more mindful of their erythritol intake. Many sugar-free and low-calorie products, which are often marketed as healthy alternatives, could contain higher amounts of this sweetener.
For those who regularly consume such products, it may be a good idea to check labels more carefully and consider limiting erythritol intake until more research can fully understand its long-term effects.
While erythritol has been popular as a sugar substitute, the new research highlights the importance of being cautious about its possible impact on health.
A common sugar substitute may quietly impair brain vessels and raise stroke risk.
The 18-year-old contestant, Kamolwan Chanago, who is competing for the Miss Thailand title, was responding to the judges when the accident occurred. She was not allowed to stop and restart her answer as per the rules.
Quickly reacting to the mishap, Kamolwan turned away from the camera to discreetly reposition her dental prosthetics before returning to the judges to continue her presentation.
A spokesperson for Miss Grand Thailand, the pageant she was competing in, confirmed that the incident was an accident and expressed pride in how Kamolwan handled the situation.
The spokesperson said, “It was an unfortunate accident when her dental prosthetics fell out while she was speaking. We are proud of how she maintained her composure. This incident will not affect the ongoing competition, which will proceed as planned.”
The winner of the Miss Grand Thailand title is set to be announced on March 28, 2026. The winner will go on to represent Thailand at the Miss Grand International competition in India in October 2026.
Upon realizing what had happened, the contestant turned around to reposition her dental prosthetics and then went on to present herself to the judges.
The auction, hosted by Freeman’s on Thursday, included pieces from a $23 million purchase made in 2007 by a foundation dedicated to acquiring rare Lincoln relics for the museum.
Among the items was a velvet-lined framed portrait of John Wilkes Booth, Lincoln’s assassin, which contained several strands of hair believed to have been plucked from Booth’s head after he was killed in 1865. The piece sold for $7,000, falling below its estimated value.
Other notable pieces included a bust of Lincoln biographer Carl Sandburg once owned by Marilyn Monroe, which sold for $1,300, and a bust of Ulysses Grant that fetched $2,000. The top-selling item was a rare 34-star eagle parade flag, which went for $220,000, far exceeding the $100,000 mark.
These artifacts, many of which were part of the 2007 Taper acquisition, come after a strained relationship between the Lincoln Presidential Foundation and the Lincoln Presidential Museum.
While the foundation was established to acquire unique Lincoln relics for the museum, disagreements over the authenticity of key items, like a stovepipe hat supposedly belonging to Lincoln led to the sale of several items.
Though the foundation has not confirmed whether the sale of these items is part of an effort to repay debt from the 2007 purchase, it marks a significant chapter in the history of the Lincoln collection, raising questions about the future of the museum’s displays.
This image from the archives of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is of a purported lock of hair taken from John Wilkes Booth’s head after he was fatally shot during a manhunt. It was one of hundreds of items once acquired from a West Coast Lincoln collector for display at the museum.
Oral diseases are a global issue, not just limited to Rwanda. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 3.5 billion people worldwide suffer from some form of oral health problem. Over 2.5 billion people experience tooth decay, and many others struggle with gum disease.
Additionally, an estimated 350 million people lose at least one tooth, and $380 billion is spent annually on treating these issues globally.
In honor of World Oral Health Day, KFH has committed to assess the oral health of its staff, patients, and visitors to evaluate their oral hygiene and needs.
Dr. Madeleine Uwamahoro, the Head of the Oral and Dental Surgery Department at KFH, emphasized that oral health affects not only the teeth but also the surrounding tissues, and these conditions are becoming increasingly prevalent.
“During routine examinations, it is rare to find a person without dental problems or oral health issues. You could examine people for a month and hardly encounter someone with perfect oral health,” she said.
Consequences of neglecting oral health
A 2021 study by Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC) found that 57% of people do not regularly seek dental checkups, with 92.8% only visiting a dentist when they experience pain. Only 1% of individuals engage in routine dental visits.
Dr. Uwamahoro stressed that untreated oral health issues can lead to serious health complications, such as miscarriage and stroke.
“Oral diseases have a direct impact on the bloodstream. Pregnant women with poor oral health are at risk of giving birth to underweight babies, and in some cases, this could lead to miscarriage. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can exacerbate gum issues, and combined with inadequate nutrition, it becomes a significant health risk for both mother and child.”
She also pointed out the challenges children face, particularly with severe dental issues that often go untreated. Some young children lose all their teeth, requiring anesthesia for proper treatment, which complicates care.
Dr. Uwamahoro further highlighted the social stigma faced by individuals with crooked teeth, who may have difficulty eating, speaking, or facing other challenges, including heart-related issues.
“Certain bacteria in the mouth can contribute to heart disease. Some people develop swelling due to bacteria in the mouth, which can enter the bloodstream and cause a stroke. These infections can also affect the respiratory system.”
The need for advocacy and timely treatment
Dr. Uwamahoro noted that issues like gum disease and jawbone problems are long-term conditions that require consistent care.
With over 10 years of experience at KFH, Dr. Uwamahoro shared that tooth decay and gum diseases are the most common oral health concerns in Rwanda.
“On average, we treat between 700 and 800 patients each month, including returning patients. This is a high number, and it shows that people need to be more proactive about their oral health,” she added.
She encouraged the public to adopt proper oral hygiene practices, such as brushing their teeth at least twice a day, changing toothbrushes every three months, and scheduling regular dental visits every six months.
KFH has pledged to assess the oral health of over 500 individuals to provide them with the necessary guidance and recommendations for maintaining good oral hygiene.
A woman who recently visited KFH for a dental checkup shared her thoughts on the initiative: “I’ve had dental issues for a while, mainly due to sugary drinks, but this initiative has been incredibly helpful. I’ve been considering seeing a dentist but was concerned about the costs. I encourage others to take advantage of this opportunity.”
Focusing on prevention and early diagnosis
KFH is not only focused on diagnosing oral health problems but also on preventive measures. The hospital is dedicated to educating the public about proper oral care, identifying early signs of disease, and making treatments more accessible.
The hospital is working to ensure that dental care services are readily available, particularly for common issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, tooth replacement, and restoring appearance with prosthetics.
KFH provides specialized care, including treatments for damaged teeth, oral surgeries to correct dental problems, cleaning, aligning teeth, advanced diagnostic tools for detecting serious diseases, and gum disease treatment. The hospital also offers surgeries for abscesses and other dental issues.
Additionally, KFH offers special services for children, which may require full or partial anesthesia to ensure they receive the necessary care and support.
King Faisal Hospital’s new campaign aims to screen 500 people for oral health diseasesKing Faisal Hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art technology for oral health checkupsState-of-the-art equipment at King Faisal Hospital ensures comprehensive oral health screeningsKing Faisal Hospital has intensified efforts in the fight against oral health diseasesKing Faisal Hospital is located in Kacyiru
The researchers found the remains of at least 16 species, including birds and frogs.
Among the most significant discoveries was a newly identified parrot species, Strigops insulaborealis, believed to be an ancestor of the flightless kākāpō, though this ancient bird may have had the ability to fly.
Other findings include extinct ancestors of the takahē and a pigeon species closely related to the Australian bronzewing.
The fossils were embedded in two distinct layers of volcanic ash, dated to 1.55 million years ago and 1 million years ago, which helped the researchers establish a precise timeline for the remains.
These layers acted as natural time markers, giving scientists a clear snapshot of life during this ancient period.
The discovery challenges previous assumptions about New Zealand’s wildlife. Prior fossil records were either from millions of years ago or from the time after humans arrived.
The new findings fill a crucial gap in understanding the environmental forces shaping wildlife long before humans arrived. According to Associate Professor Trevor Worthy, the fossils represent a “missing volume” in the natural history of New Zealand.
The team also pointed out that climate shifts and volcanic eruptions may have caused significant extinctions before humans, with as many as 33-50% of species disappearing in the million years before human settlement.
Dr. Paul Scofield from Canterbury Museum emphasized that these natural events played a pivotal role in the extinction of species, adding that this discovery “proves that dramatic climate changes and volcanic activity were already reshaping wildlife”, long before human impact.
Scientists open a million-year-old time capsule beneath New Zealand.
With MoFlex, MoMo users can now access microloans tailored to their unique needs. This innovative service offers customers the freedom to choose repayment periods that suit their financial situations.
MoFlex users can request loans ranging from Rwf 1,000 to more than Rwf 1,000,000, with transparent and competitive interest rates from 7% to 14%, tailored to their chosen repayment period. Customers can choose to pay between 7, 14, and 30 days. This ensures both affordability and clarity for all users. Accessing a MoFlex loan is fast and hassle-free. Customers can dial 1825*4#, follow the prompts, and receive funds directly into their MoMo accounts within minutes.
Speaking at the launch, Chantal Kagame, CEO of Mobile Money Rwanda Ltd, shared: “We are delighted to introduce MoFlex as part of our ongoing commitment to fostering financial inclusion in Rwanda. “This product is designed to address the evolving needs of our customers, providing not only access to funds but also the flexibility to manage their finances effectively. At MoMo, we are dedicated to delivering solutions that truly come from the heart – ‘BivaMoMotima.’”
On the launch of MoFlex, Puneet Chopra, Chief Growth Officer at Yabx, highlighted that it combines flexible loan options with instant digital access, enabling customers to borrow and repay in a way that fits their financial needs.
“Behind this simple experience is a sophisticated digital lending infrastructure that brings together real-time data analytics, credit decisioning, and deep ecosystem integration. Through our partnership with Mobile Money Rwanda and Ecobank, we are creating a scalable model that has the potential to extend responsible access to credit across Rwanda’s large and growing base of MoMo users,” he said.
Carine Umutoni, Managing Director, Ecobank Rwanda Plc, also explained how the bank attaches great relevance to helping individuals access credit, as a powerful catalyst for economic empowerment in Rwanda, particularly for underserved communities who often face barriers to formal financing. “Through our partnership with Mobile Money Rwanda Ltd and YABX, MoFlex provides customers with convenient and responsible access to short-term financing directly through their mobile phones. This collaboration reflects our commitment to leveraging digital innovation to expand financial inclusion and deliver practical financial solutions that support everyday needs and small businesses across Rwanda,” she noted.
Empowering communities
MoFlex represents MoMo Rwanda’s unwavering dedication to leveraging digital innovation to transform lives and empower communities across the country. By offering accessible and user-friendly financial services, MoMo continues to lead the charge toward achieving a fully cashless economy in Rwanda.
Mobile Money Rwanda Ltd is MTN Rwanda’s FinTech subsidiary, established on 27th April 2021 to provide and manage Mobile Money services in Rwanda. The company has about 5.1 million subscribers, over 65,000 Mobile Money agents, and over 500,000 MoMoPay merchants across the country.
With continuous innovations in services such as MoMoPay, MoKash Loans & Savings, Tap&Go bus payments, Bill Payments, and International & Regional Remittances, Mobile Money Rwanda is positioning itself at the forefront of driving financial inclusion and supporting the digital economy in Rwanda.
Participants of the launch in a group photo. Chantal Kagame, CEO of Mobile Money Rwanda Ltd, speaking at the launch
The two were seen enjoying an outing on March 22, alongside Kim’s sister, Khloé Kardashian. In photos shared online, Kim appeared relaxed and happy, wrapping her arm around Hamilton as they walked together.
Kim wore a fitted gray dress with a thigh-high slit paired with black boots, while Hamilton kept it casual in a brown jacket and loose-fitting pants.
The Tokyo appearance comes amid ongoing rumors about the pair’s relationship. Earlier in March, Hamilton drew attention after commenting with a heart-eyed emoji on Kim’s Instagram post from the 2026 Oscars after-party, where she wore a gold Gucci gown.
Speculation about the duo first emerged in February when they were reportedly seen boarding a private jet together in Europe. They were also said to have attended the same New Year’s Eve celebration in Aspen and later appeared side-by-side at the 2026 Super Bowl.
While neither Kim nor Hamilton has confirmed the rumors, their recent public appearances continue to spark curiosity among fans.
Neither Kim nor Hamilton has confirmed the romance rumors
Since launching its flagship store in October 2022, Goodlife has expanded to 16 pharmacy locations nationwide, offering medicines, pharmacy services, and a range of health and wellness products. The company serves more than 100,000 customers each month and operates a customer loyalty program with over 100,000 registered members.
The investment comes from BK Capital’s Africa Private Debt Fund, which focuses on providing financing to businesses in Rwanda. The financing will support further expansion of Goodlife’s network, strengthen its supply chain, and improve operational capacity across both standalone and hospital-based outlets.
Goodlife operates pharmacy services at Kibagabaga Hospital in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Rwanda Medical Supply, and has partnered with Legacy Clinics, a private healthcare provider.
Goodlife has quickly established one of the first world-class pharmacy chains in Rwanda,” said Théogène Uwimpuhwe, Acting Managing Director of BK Capital. “We are pleased to provide the capital needed to fuel this industry pioneer’s next phase of growth, ultimately improving access to quality healthcare and medicines for all Rwandans.”
“Access to medicines and professional pharmacy services is essential for healthcare delivery,” said Grant M. Beyers, Chief Executive Officer of Goodlife Health and Beauty. “This investment will support our ongoing expansion and operational improvements.”
The transaction was supported by Steve Mutaboba, who acted as Lead Financial and Strategic Advisor to Goodlife.
The investment reflects continued investor confidence in Rwanda’s healthcare sector and the role of private capital in supporting access to essential health products and services.
The race will test riders’ speed, endurance, and determination as they navigate the rugged terrain. Open to all motorcycle enthusiasts, the event welcomes both experienced racers and newcomers eager to experience the thrill of enduro racing.
Spectators can expect a day filled with high-energy action as riders take on the demanding track. With free entry for all attendees, the event promises an exciting outdoor atmosphere, where fans can enjoy watching powerful bikes tackle the course while sipping on ice-cold Virunga Beer.
For those interested in competing, registration is open by calling 0789 628 762. Sponsored by Virunga Beer, the event is set to be an unforgettable gathering for motorsport fans, combining adrenaline-fueled racing with the vibrant energy of the crowd.
The event is sponsored by SKOL BREWERY through Virunga Beer brand
The review included 29 randomized controlled trials involving more than 2,700 preterm and full‑term neonates. It showed that infants who received sucrose just before or during the needle insertion probably experienced less pain than those who received no intervention, water, or only standard comfort care. Sucrose was found to lower pain scores during the procedure and for up to one minute afterward.
Dr Mariana Bueno from the University of Toronto, the lead author of the review, said: “Newborn babies undergo frequent needle procedures in hospital without any pain relief or comforting measures, even though older children and adults rarely have these procedures done without pain care.
The evidence shows that a small amount of sucrose given just before the procedure is a simple, fast, and effective way to reduce that pain. Our review helps clinicians use this evidence more confidently and consistently in practice.”
The review also found that sucrose appeared to be more effective than the use of pacifiers alone for reducing pain. However, evidence comparing sucrose with other comforting measures such as skin‑to‑skin care was limited.
Importantly, no studies reported harmful side effects such as gagging or pauses in breathing when sucrose was used in the small amounts required for pain relief.
Researchers emphasized that sucrose can be given orally in very small doses and that this simple intervention could help inform clearer clinical guidelines for neonatal pain management worldwide.
New research indicates that sugar helps relieve pain in newborns during venepuncture.
