Scientists Used Mario Game to Treat Depression. Here's What Happened

That time spent with Mario could be better for you than you might expect. At least that's according to the results of a new study.

Researchers in Germany recently published a study in Frontiers of Psychology that looked at how playing 3D video games can treat cognitive symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD), including "reduced affect, mood, and cognitive impairments such as memory problems." 

In the study, 46 participants diagnosed with MDD were split into three groups, with one playing the Nintendo Switch game Super Mario Odyssey, while another used a cognitive training computer program (CogPack), and a third underwent traditional treatments like psychotherapy and medication. 

After six weeks, the Super Mario Odyssey group saw the greatest decrease in self-reported MDD symptoms, with instances falling nearly 50 percent. Furthermore, the Super Mario Odyssey group reported much higher motivation to continue treatment than the other groups. 

“Furthermore, results suggest significant improvements in tasks of visuo-spatial (working) memory performance during post-testing in both training groups, however, the 3D video gaming group demonstrates more selective improvements and does not perform significantly better than the other two groups," according to the study authors. "Still, these mixed findings suggest that video game training may be a cost-effective and feasible intervention for patients with MDD that can be used in conjunction with regular treatment and therapy.”

The study focused on MDD's cognitive symptoms—like memory and problem solving—rather than the affective symptoms—like feelings of sadness or decrease in pleasure. Previous research has found that 3D games like Super Mario Odyssey engage the hippocampus, a part of the brain associated with learning and memory. 

A 2015 study in the Journal of Neuroscience found that 3D video games boosted memory performance by 12 percent compared to 2D counterparts, while a 2017 Nature study found 3D platform games helped boost hippocampus grey matter.

As the researchers note, the small sample size and non-blinded methodology of the study means more research is needed. Still, it's an interesting finding as you put those holiday gifts to use. 

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Las Vegas Sphere 'Unwraps' Itself to Reveal Holiday Message

Since debuting over the summer with an Independence-themed display, the Sphere in Las Vegas has both enthralled and terrified visitors with the various animations featured on its 580,000 square foot LED exterior. And with Christmas on Monday, the venue naturally broke out what is sure to be the first of many annual holiday messages for onlookers.

"Wrapping up the year with friends and family," the official Sphere account posted to social media on Dec. 25, along with a short video. In the clip, the venue appears to be covered in festive red and white gift wrap tied with a matching red bow. As the bow comes undone and the wrap peels away, several more layers of wrapping paper are revealed before it finally gets to the holiday tidings.

Wrapping up the year with friends and family 🎁🎀 pic.twitter.com/4DVGDM7qGY

— Sphere (@SphereVegas) December 25, 2023

"Happy holidays from all of us at the Sphere," the message proclaimed on a blue background with exploding fireworks.

However, as others pointed out, the real show will undoubtedly take place on New Year's Eve, with what will be sure to rival the big ball drop in New York City. "This is gonna be better than the ball at Times Square on New Year's Eve," wrote one user. Another added: "I can’t wait for the first New Year's countdown with the Sphere."

It's unclear what the Madison Square Garden-owned building has in store to ring in 2024, but it seems unlikely to disappoint. Though the project reported initial losses, it has since been revealed that the Sphere has made a whopping $75 million through Nov. 30, thanks to its first two inaugural shows, U2's UV Achtung Baby Live at Sphere residency and the Darren Aronofsky original film Postcards From Earth, which was designed and shot specially for the venue.

It's still a far cry from recouping its $2.3 billion construction costs, but with new acts and events being regularly announced, it's likely only a matter of time.

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New Year 2024: 7 Finger Foods To Amp Up Your New Years Eve Celebration

We are all excited to welcome the New Year. While it is still not safe enough for us to go outside and party, we can always celebrate it at home with our friends and family. Keeping that in mind, an essential part of almost any celebration, especially New Year's eve, is to munch on delicious snacks. But what kind of snacks should be kept at a New Year's Eve celebration? We want something easy to make, a snack that we can eat using our hands, without making a mess. Finger foods check all these mandatory boxes. With its crispy and delicious taste, finger food is the perfect snack for parties. That is why we have brought to you some finger food recipes that would make for a delicious party snack.

Also Read: Chilli Chicken, Chicken Manchurian And More: 5 Classic Non-Veg Chinese Recipes To Amp Up Your Meal

New Year 2024: 7 Finger Foods To Amp Up Your Dinner Party

1. Chilli Garlic Potatoes

With easily available ingredients you and your family will be able to enjoy fresh potato bites at home. All you need is some potatoes, garlic, chilli flake and rice flour and you are good to go!

Click here for the recipe Chilli Garlic Potatoes.

2. Chicken Tikka Croquettes

Chicken tikka is one of the most loved chicken dishes among Indians. We have found a way to add the spicy and smoky flavours of this beloved dish inside the crispy croquettes.

Click here for the recipe for Chicken Tikka Croquettes.

3. Mozzarella Sticks

This snack is a popular choice in cafes and restaurants. Now you can make this cheesy snack at home. slices of mozzarella cheese are coated in ingredients to give its signature crispy outer covering and gooey cheese-filled stuffing.

Click here for the recipe Mozzarella Sticks.

4. Potato Smiley

No need to buy this snack from the store. With a few easy steps, you can easily make this classic potato snack at home. Pair up with your favourite dip and enjoy!

Click here for the recipe Potato Smiley.

5. Fish Fingers

Boneless strips of fish are marinated in a masala mixture, coated in flour, egg and bread crumbs and then deep-fried to give this delicious snack. These fish fingers are juicy from the inside and crispy outside.

Click here for the recipe Fish Fingers.

6. French Fries

Who doesn't love French fries? This classic potato snack is our go-to food for all occasions! Rather than spending money to buy this snack, we can easily make it at home with this quick and easy recipe.

Click here for the recipe for French Fries.

Serve it with ketchup.

7. Chicken Nuggets

Loved by all, this crispy tiny treat is simply irresistible! And the best part is - this recipe is so easy to make and requires just a few ingredients in its preparation. Pair it up with your favourite dip and savour!

Click here for the recipe for Chicken Nuggets.

Try out these recipes and do tell us in the comments section how you liked them.

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How Fibre Helps Avoid Constipation - Expert Suggests These Foods

Constipation affects a large number of people and is characterised by irregular bowel movements, difficulty in passing stool, and a feeling of incomplete evacuation. While there are many causes of constipation, a lack of dietary fibre is often a significant factor. Fibre plays a crucial role in preventing and relieving constipation by promoting regular bowel movements and maintaining optimal digestive health. Fibre, which is present in plant-based foods, is the part of carbohydrates that cannot be digested and passes through the digestive system intact. Fibre comes in two forms: soluble and insoluble and helps to regulate bowel movements. Insoluble fiber adds bulk to the stool while soluble fiber absorbs water and forms a gel-like substance.
Also Read: 5 Fiber-Rich Foods You Should be Eating Everyday

This is how eating fibre-rich foods can alleviate the problem of constipation

Fibre increases the size and softness of stool, making it easier to pass. Insoluble fibre, present in whole grains, nuts, and vegetables, adds volume to stool, preventing it from becoming hard and dry. This allows proper bowel movements and keeps constipation at bay. Soluble fibre found in fruits, vegetables, and legumes absorbs water in the intestines, resulting in a softer and easier-to-pass stool.  It supports the growth of beneficial probiotic microorganisms in the gut. These probiotics are essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system by breaking down fibre into short-chain fatty acids that nourish the cells lining the colon and encourage regular bowel movements. Fibre adds bulk to stool and stimulates intestinal muscles to facilitate waste movement. This reduces the likelihood of stool remaining in the colon for extended periods by preventing constipation.

Benefits of eating a fibre-rich diet

A diet abundant in dietary fibre, inclusive of grains, fruits, and vegetables can help to improve the problem of constipation, prevent obesity, coronary artery disease, and diabetes, and has also been associated with a reduced incidence of certain cancers. Whole grain or cereal fibre intake tends to delay gastric emptying and promote satiety. Increased fibre consumption is linked to heightened levels of satiety hormones in the gut.
Also Read: Do Fiber-Rich Foods Help In Losing Weight?

Here are 5 foods that are rich in fibre:

1. Fruits: Papaya, apples, pears, oranges, bananas.
2. Vegetables: Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, spinach, kale.
3. Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, black beans, peas.
4. Whole grains: Oats, quinoa, Rice, Dalia
5. Nuts and seeds: Almonds, chia seeds, flaxseeds.
Including these in your diet can help increase your fibre intake.

Take-home message: You can consult an expert who can help you with the list of fibre-rich foods to be added to the diet to manage constipation. It is a good idea to take charge of your diet and pay attention to your eating habits.

About the author: Ambika Setia is a Dietitian with Apollo Spectra Delhi (Chirag Enclave). 

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Are You Doing Things That Could Lead To Diabetes? Look At These 3 Habits

Diabetes has steadily increased in India and around the world over the last three decades, with India accounting for a sizable portion of the global burden. It is not unknown to us that India is fast becoming the global diabetes capital. Not only is the number of patients with diabetes rising, but it is also striking at a much younger age. According to the International Diabetes Federation, nearly 134 million Indians will develop diabetes by 2045; as a result, these people are more likely to experience heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure. Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs either when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood glucose. While age and genetics certainly play a role in our chances of developing diabetes, our lifestyle choices play a crucial role too. Inactive lifestyles coupled with unhealthy eating habits, poor sleep, and high stress have caused a sharp rise in the number of diabetic cases in India in the past few years. All these factors are the foundation of diabetes.
Also Read: Diabetes In The Family? 5 Game-Changing Tips To Keep It At Bay!

1. Inactive Lifestyle

An inactive or sedentary lifestyle is one of the biggest risk factors for type 2 diabetes. The majority of those belonging to the working population are employed in jobs that have erratic work schedules and entail sitting for long hours. Without regular exercise, excess sugar stays in the bloodstream rather than being sent into muscles to be used for energy, disrupting the body's response to insulin and putting the body in a chronically elevated state of high blood sugar. Exercise has a variety of benefits for managing diabetes, including decreasing body fat, lowering blood pressure, and lowering blood sugar. Exercise regularly increases the absorption of sugar (glucose) into cells in your muscles, liver, and fat. This improves the body's response to insulin, decreasing insulin resistance. Getting around 150 minutes of exercise and physical activity per week is recommended. Small changes like walking daily, taking the stairs, and taking breaks from sitting can increase your level of physical activity.

2. Unhealthy Eating Habits

The surge in global type 2 diabetes cases was driven by three major dietary factors: insufficient intake of whole grains, excess consumption of refined rice and wheat, and overconsumption of processed food. Ultra-processed foods (often called "junk foods") are everywhere. In general, these foods include processed and prepared snack foods with long ingredient lists that are high in calories but low in nutritional value. Consuming excess sugars and fats found in these foods can contribute to weight gain. This excess weight is associated with diabetes. Dietary management is the key to controlling diabetes. Blood sugar levels can be managed by eating:

• Foods that are low in sodium
• Foods that are low in saturated fat and free of trans fats
• More fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains high in fiber
• Healthy fats such as olive oil, nuts, and avocados
• A managed amount of carbohydrates
• An adequate amount of protein from lean meats or plant sources

Also Read: Is Paneer Good For Diabetes? 3 Delicious Ways To Include It in Your Diet

Photo Credit: iStock

3. Poor Sleep And High Stress

Stress is not directly linked to diabetes, but it is considered a contributing factor. When under stress, the body releases a stress hormone called 'cortisol', which is antagonistic to insulin activity. The stress hormones make your blood sugar go up. So you may need more insulin or medication to control it. Trading precious sleep hours to meet a deadline or chat till the morning hours has become a common habit among young adults, boosting their risk of developing diabetes. Sleep deprivation can create an imbalance in the hormones that regulate your appetite, so you feel hungrier and, therefore, more likely to eat excessively and gain weight. Good sleep hygiene habits include both daytime and nighttime habits, such as:

• Getting regular exercise
• Keeping a regular sleep schedule
• Avoiding stimulants like caffeine or nicotine before bed
• Keeping the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet

About The Author: Dr. Apurrva Sawant is a preventive healthcare specialist, doctor, and founder of Careport. 

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Study Finds the Best U.S. City to Spend New Year's, and It Isn't NYC

Every year an estimated one million people ring in the New Year in Times Square to watch the iconic ball drop, but you don't have to fight New York City crowds to have the best celebration in the country. According to a new study, Orlando, of all places, is the best U.S. city for New Year's.

The findings come from WalletHub, which compared data from the 100 largest cities in the country based on 26 key indicators of what makes for an epic New Year’s Eve celebration. The range of indicators included affordability, safety, and accessibility factors, as well as entertainment and food-related criteria such as restaurant, music, and nightlife options per capita; the legality of fireworks and duration of the 2023 show; forecasted precipitation for Dec. 31.; and "general fun."

Orlando received top marks as there are no shortage of hotels and tourist destinations such as Disney World, and the city also ranks first when it comes to nightlife options and affordable restaurants rated 4.5 stars or higher. Likewise, Orlando boasts some of the longest fireworks displays in the country. And because consumer fireworks are legal, revelers can also set up their own shows.

With its mild weather and clear skies, San Diego was named in second place, for being the perfect place to celebrate with an outdoor get-together and fireworks show. Along those lines, the sunny city also has the lowest chance of precipitation on New Year’s Eve. There are also no shortage of dining options, as San Diego ties Orlando with the availability of affordable restaurants rated at least 4.5 stars.

In third place is, you guessed it, New York City, which didn't earn top marks primarily because it gets dinged over affordability. While it may be the most popular destination for New Year's, the city is also extremely expensive. Local businesses—and hotels, in particular—are notorious for hiking up their prices sometimes several hundred percent when big crowds are in town for a major event.

“When choosing which city to spend New Year’s in, it’s important to consider a variety of factors, from the activities offered to how big the crowds will be to what weather you can expect," said WalletHub analyst Cassandra Happe. "The biggest concern has to be the cost. Hotels and restaurants may hike their prices significantly for the holiday, which puts an extra strain on people’s wallets after they have already been hit hard by inflation.”

You can view the top 10 below, or head over to WalletHub for the complete findings. The website also compiled a list of the best U.S. cities to spend Christmas, based on a similar criteria of holiday-themed data, if you're looking to plan next year's festivities.

1. Orlando, FL
2. San Diego, CA
3. New York, NY
4. Las Vegas, NV
5. Atlanta, GA
6. Miami, FL
7. Los Angeles, CA
8. Chicago, IL
9. Denver, CO
10. Washington, DC

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12 Of The Best New Restaurants In Chennai You Must Visit In 2023

Was 2023 the most vibrant year for Chennai's booming F&B scene? It certainly presented a diverse array of dining experiences. Local flavours took centre stage, and so did national brands like Mustard and Farzi Café expanding their footprint to include Chennai. Comfort food held its own - everyone loves a good pizza - while seasoned Chennai brands like Cake Walk successfully reinvented themselves. The evolved café scene in Chennai welcomed a couple of intriguing additions, and Asian cuisine continued to be a popular choice among the city's well-heeled. Although it's impossible to capture all of Chennai's stellar restaurant debuts in 2023 in one list, we certainly made an attempt: 
Also Read: 7 Of Chennai's Best Whisky Bars You Must Visit

Photo Credit: Bask By Coffee

Here Are 12 Of The Best New Restaurants You Must Visit In Chennai: 

1. Lazy Leopard

We've witnessed the pizza scene in Chennai come of age in the 2020s. Lazy Leopard, named after the spots on the corner of a pizza, has made its mark among Chennai's finest pizzerias since its debut this year. Positioned as a Neapolitan Pizzeria and Trattoria, Lazy Leopard maintains authenticity with its wood-fired oven. 

• Where: Peters Road, Royapettah

2. Kaylir Canteen

Offering traditional vegetarian cuisine from Tamil Nadu, it's the setting that is truly unconventional. This casual dining restaurant serves delicious South Indian-style 'full meals' in a self-service setup with vibrant interiors. Additionally, there's a pet-friendly section, and the restaurant has recently introduced a 'tiffin' menu for those comforting evening nibbles.

• Where: CIT Colony, Mylapore  

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3. Farzi Café

After teasing the city for a while, Farzi Café finally kept its date with Chennai. Located in the heart of the city, Farzi doesn't deviate from its pan-Indian template. It's not just the bold interiors; the menu is filled with all the customary twists we've come to expect from Farzi. The starters hit all the right notes, featuring bestsellers like the Dal Chawal Arancini and the Aslam Chicken in the mix. 

• Where: Uthamar Gandhi Road, Nungambakkam  

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4. Cake Walk Café

Part of Chennai's dessert landscape since the 1990s, Cake Walk is truly one of Chennai's original pastry destinations, evoking a strong sense of nostalgia for many Chennaiites. Cake Walk Café launched earlier this year, aims to tap into that nostalgia in a contemporary setting with an extensive menu that includes their popular cake mash-ups and delicious pastas.  

• Where: Kothari Road   

5. Bistrograph

Made a splash in the city as one of the country's first photography-themed cafes. The baristas are well-trained and have quite a few tricks up their sleeves - you can even get your picture snapped and printed onto your cappuccino foam. It's not just about coffee; the menu is quite eclectic, featuring bestsellers like smoked chicken soup and a burrata salad. 

• Where: 10th Cross Street, Sastri Nagar 

6. Mustard

Mustard has remained one of our favourite restaurants in Goa over the past few years. It takes its name from the use of mustard, a condiment used in its purest form in both French and Bengali cuisine. The menu brings together iconic Bengali dishes and fine French cuisine in a an atmospheric setting backed by a bar menu packed with innovative cocktails.  

• Where: Sterling Road 

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7. Chettinad Stories

How far will you travel for authentic Chettinad flavours? If you're in Chennai, all you have to do is head to Chettinad Stories, located at Hotel Aadithya. The menu includes true-blue Chettinad delicacies and dishes with a delicious twist. Even if the interiors don't transport you to Chettinad (in Southern Tamil Nadu), the authentic flavours certainly will. 

• Where: Hotel Aadithya, Arcot Road, Vadapalani  

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Also Read: Where To Get Find Best Ambur Biryani In Chennai - 5 Options To Try

8. Sangamithirai

If there's one reason why diners return to Sangamithirai, it's nostalgia. Executive Chef Prem Kumar and his enthusiastic team bring some of Tamil Nadu's finest cuisine to your table. From Kari dosai to Karuppu Kavunni halwa, this is a fantastic culinary journey across Tamil Nadu. If you grew up in Tamil Nadu, it might evoke childhood memories and remind you of your grandmother's recipes. 

• Where: Feathers - A Radha Hotel , Manapakkam  

9. Ambur Canteen

You had to be invited to a wedding or travel to Ambur to sample authentic Ambur biryani. Ambur Canteen has changed all that. We appreciate the casual vibe and the slice-of-life images from Ambur and the Arcot region that adorn the walls, but it's the biryani that steals the show. Their key unique selling proposition (USP) is the culinary production team, all hailing from Ambur, and their rice-to-meat ratio that elevates the biryani.  

• Where: Habibullah Road 

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10. ETC (Elba Trading Company)

Pasta might be ubiquitous in Chennai, but there are not too many spots where you can sample an authentic Italian pasta crafted with fine ingredients. That's why ETC, which debuted in the last quarter of 2023, has our attention. From spaghetti to ravioli, all their pastas are terrific and made with ingredients shipped from Italy. It's also one of the only spots in the city that offers fine, fresh black truffles. 

• Where: St Mary's Road, Alwarpet

11. Sky, The Residency Towers

The name is a giveaway. This is Chennai's best new rooftop restaurant with a choice of indoor and alfresco options - four dining spaces in all. It's the two alfresco sections with views of the city and the coastline that win our vote. This all-day dining space is perfect for sundowners and a hearty Asian meal with a local twist.  

• Where: Sir Theagaraya Road 

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12. Bask By Coffee

It's one of the most 'Instagrammed' F&B hotspots of 2023. Set in a sprawling bungalow in a swish neighbourhood, Bask quickly became one of Chennai's preferred social spaces. Large community-style dining tables, a brilliant blend of outdoor and indoor seating options, and an exhaustive menu that captures the city's evolving palates, all come together in this high-energy cafe.

• Where: Kasturi Rangan Road  

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