Technology

We’re learning more about what vitamin D does to our bodies

Source

MIT Technology Review

Published

Nov 21, 2025

TL;DR

AI Generated

The article discusses the importance of vitamin D in our bodies, particularly in relation to bone health, immune system function, and heart health. While vitamin D deficiency can lead to conditions like rickets, recent research suggests it may also impact blood pressure and cardiovascular health. Studies have shown links between low vitamin D levels and increased risk of common colds and cardiovascular events. However, the effectiveness of vitamin D supplements in preventing these conditions remains uncertain due to mixed evidence. Researchers face challenges in determining ideal vitamin D levels and intake due to individual variations in response to sunlight and diet sources.

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The Download: supercharged scams and studying AI healthcare

The article discusses how AI is being used to enhance cyber scams, making them faster and more sophisticated, posing challenges for organizations dealing with cyberattacks. In healthcare, AI tools are increasingly used by doctors for tasks like notetaking and interpreting medical data, but the effectiveness of these tools in improving patient outcomes remains uncertain. Additionally, the article highlights the unveiling of DeepSeek's new AI model and other tech news stories, including countries restricting children's social media access and Meta cutting jobs to offset AI spending. NASA's search for extraterrestrial life on Jupiter's moon Europa is also mentioned.

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The USC Professor Who Pioneered Socially Assistive Robotics

Maja Matarić, a USC professor, is at the forefront of socially assistive robotics, with her latest creation aiding students' mental health. Bandit, the robot, engages in games with children on the autism spectrum and provides them with positive affirmations. Matarić's work showcases the potential for robots to support individuals in various aspects of their lives, highlighting the intersection of technology and human well-being.

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The noise we make is hurting animals. Can we learn to shut up?

The article discusses how human-made noise, known as anthropogenic noise, is negatively impacting animals by disrupting their communication, causing stress, and affecting their reproductive success. The reduction in noise levels during the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted positive changes in animal behavior, emphasizing the need to address noise pollution. Studies have shown that noise can lead to various health issues in humans, such as poor sleep and increased stress. Strategies to reduce noise pollution include redesigning roads, lowering speed limits, planting sound-absorbing vegetation, and transitioning to electric vehicles. Efforts to mitigate noise pollution can have immediate positive effects on both wildlife and human health.

MIT Technology Review•

2 weeks ago

Young Professional’s AI Tool Spots Mental Health Conditions

Abhishek Appaji, an IEEE awardee, has developed the Smart Eye Kiosk, an AI-powered tool that analyzes retinal images to detect physiological signs related to stress levels, mental health conditions, and basic eye diseases. By capturing images of a patient's retina, the tool can provide valuable insights into an individual's overall health. This innovative technology showcases the potential for AI to revolutionize healthcare by offering non-invasive and efficient methods for early detection and monitoring of various health issues.