Two plant-derived extracts, black cumin seed and ashwagandha, have been clinically tested and shown to significantly improve sleep efficiency, duration, and restorative sleep measures without the side effects associated with medications. Black cumin seed extract, standardized to 5% thymoquinone, improved sleep efficiency by 74% and reduced perceived stress by 44%. Ashwagandha extract, standardized to 35% withanolide glycosides, improved restorative sleep by 72% and lowered stress by 62%. These findings suggest that these extracts could help Americans achieve healthier sleep.

A study aimed to determine the incidence of ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation as the initial arrhythmia detected at in-hospital cardiac arrests among patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, and no heart failure. The study included patients who experienced in-hospital cardiac arrest and underwent cardiopulmonary resuscitation from 2011 through 2020. It found that ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation was the initial rhythm in approximately 50% of the in-hospital cardiac arrests among patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. The incidence of these arrhythmias, return of spontaneous circulation, and 30-day survival were similar in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.

A Spanish military professional rescue crew, recently arrived in Morocco, faced logistical challenges and inaction while attempting to reach remote villages affected by a disaster. The crew, directed by the Moroccan military and government, experienced delays and a lack of clear direction, contrasting with the rapid assistance and freedom to work observed in the aftermath of the Turkish earthquake. Despite the potential for more rescue crews to cause additional gridlock, it was noted that villagers had mostly recovered their dead quickly. The volunteer crew later concluded their operation, acknowledging their inability to perform their intended rescue tasks.

Ukrainian forces are engaged in intense battles to defend the capital, Kyiv, from Russian troops. Despite Russia's military superiority, Ukrainian command and control remain intact, and the nation is rallying around President Zelensky. The Russian invasion, which began with airstrikes, has led to close-quarters combat in Kyiv. The Ukrainian government reports Russian casualties, while Russia has not acknowledged any. Ukrainian men are being drafted, and citizens are asked to make Molotov cocktails. The U.S. and other countries are condemning the invasion, with the UN Security Council's resolution being vetoed by Russia. The article also touches on the global implications of the conflict, including perspectives from South Korea on the U.S.'s response and its potential impact on their own security considerations.

Lebanon's economy has been in decline for nearly a year, exacerbated by a strict COVID-19 lockdown and currency inflation. Nearly half the population, including Lebanese and Syrian refugees, live below the poverty line, struggling with soaring food prices and business closures. Nationwide protests erupted in June as the Lebanese lira plummeted, with demonstrators decrying government and bank corruption. Lebanon has entered bailout discussions with the IMF, but disagreements have stalled progress.

Carolyn Long is endorsed for the 3rd Congressional District seat due to her strong platform and adaptability, especially in response to COVID-19. She has moved her campaign operations online, provided community support suggestions via email, and hosted a Facebook Live Roundtable with educational experts to assist concerned parents.

The authors express gratitude to the Park Rapids Community Tennis Association for their efforts in maintaining tennis courts, which was a significant factor in their decision to buy property in Park Rapids. They highlight the community's involvement and invite other tennis players to enjoy the sport on the refurbished courts.

Zimbabwe's first election without Robert Mugabe's name on the ballot, which was initially peaceful and hopeful, turned violent when soldiers opened fire on protesters, killing at least three. The election was marked by long lines and eager voters, but also by intimidation and vote rigging, particularly in rural areas. The ruling party promised transparency and invited international observers, but instances of intimidation were still observed. The leading opposition candidate, Nelson Chamisa, prematurely claimed victory, leading to protests that escalated into violence. The city of Harare went from a state of optimism to fear as it awaited the presidential announcement.

A 20-year-old man was seriously injured in a shooting during a fight involving four or five other men in Mississauga near Bloor Street and Fieldgate Drive. Peel Regional Police responded to the call at around 7:10 p.m. on Monday evening. The victim was hospitalized, and authorities are searching for a suspect driving a 2006 Grey Pontiac Torrent.

Jennifer Keesmaat has resigned from her role as Toronto’s Chief Planner & Executive Director of the City Planning division after five years. Mayor John Tory thanked her for her passion and leadership in advancing major city projects. Keesmaat was involved in various initiatives such as Feeling Congested, TOCore, and the King Street Pilot Project. She expressed gratitude for her time at City Hall and looks forward to new challenges in city building.

The Tasha Kheiriddin Show on July 24th covered the revision of the Canadian Citizenship Exam Study Guide, with MP Michelle Rempel discussing the removal of passages on barbaric cultural practices. Legal analyst Joseph A. Neuberger commented on the lack of Canadian laws compelling people to render assistance, in contrast to some U.S. states. The issue of vehicles parking in bike lanes was addressed by Toronto parking enforcement officer Kyle Ashley, highlighting the dangers posed to cyclists.

Vaughan Paving Ltd. was fined $125,000 for a workplace accident that resulted in a worker's death in Markham on August 27, 2014. The accident occurred when equipment reversed and struck the worker at a strip mall project. An investigation by the Ministry of Labour found inadequate safety measures, including the lack of a signaler for the equipment operator. The company pleaded guilty, and the fine was imposed by Justice of the Peace Herbert B. Radtke, with an additional 25% victim fine surcharge as mandated by the Provincial Offences Act.

Sotirios “Sam” Panopoulos, the Ontario man who invented the Hawaiian pizza, has died at 83. Born in Greece and immigrating to Canada in 1954, Panopoulos created the pizza with pineapple and ham in 1962 at his restaurant, The Satellite, in Chatham, Ontario. His death has reignited the debate over pineapple as a pizza topping, with figures like Icelandic President Gudni Johannesson criticizing it and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau showing support. Panopoulos is remembered for his generous nature and is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren.

The UN has called for increased aid to support the nearly 18 million Syrians affected by the ongoing war. The report follows Um Bassam, a Syrian Palestinian mother of five, who has sought refuge in Beirut, Lebanon, for the past three years.