A new study has uncovered an interconnected nexus between state IQ and well-being across the 50 U.S. states. Key findings show that states with higher average IQ tend to have better well-being outcomes across areas like health, income, education and crime. Some key facts: State IQ strongly predicts well-being – they correlated 0.80 in the …
Insomnia is a highly prevalent sleep disorder affecting up to 35% of the general population – and can significantly impair quality of life. Researchers have been investigating new non-pharmacological treatment options like transcranial electric stimulation (TES) and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to treat insomnia symptoms. A new meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Psychiatry reviewed …
Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a serious and complex psychiatric illness impacting 1-2% of the general population. Despite available treatments, many patients continue to struggle with suicidal behavior, emotional dysregulation, and impaired interpersonal functioning. Researchers are now considering the potential of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy (MDMA-AP) as a complementary treatment approach for BPD. Key Facts: BPD involves …
Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a complex and often misunderstood mental health condition characterized by difficulties with emotional regulation, impulsivity, and unstable relationships. One of the criteria for diagnosis is chronic feelings of emptiness. While commonly discussed in clinical observations, empirical research on this experience has been limited. A new systematic review published in PLOS …
Multitasking requires rapidly switching between tasks and goals, taxing networks in our brains that support cognitive control and attention. Research shows multitasking leads to poorer performance, known as switch costs, compared to focusing on one task at a time. Certain types of multitasking like media multitasking are associated with reduced working memory, long-term memory, and …
Genetically modified (GM) foods have been available for decades, but many consumers still don’t fully understand what they are or their potential impacts. Research shows knowledge gaps persist regarding GM food traits, safety, regulation, and labeling. Experts emphasize the need for more accessible scientific communication to improve public comprehension. Key Facts: GM crops were first …
Albert Einstein’s extraordinary intelligence and genius have long intrigued scientists. Now, new analysis of photographs of Einstein’s brain reveals enhanced connections between the two hemispheres, providing clues into the neurological basis for his remarkable abilities. Key Facts: Researchers analyzed high-resolution photos of Einstein’s corpus callosum, the band of fibers connecting the brain’s hemispheres, and compared …
A new study published in Pharmazie takes a close look at adverse event reports related to drug-induced weight gain submitted to the FDA over the past 10 years. The retrospective analysis provides insight into the drugs most commonly associated with weight gain side effects. Key findings include: From 2012 to 2021, 137,370 reports of drug-induced …
A powerful, unregulated synthetic marijuana called “Tiburón” (Spanish for “shark”) has recently emerged in Honduras, posing severe risks to public health. Produced and sold by the notorious MS-13 street gang, this altered cannabis strain is designed to be even more addictive than regular marijuana. But its exact contents and effects remain a mystery. Key Facts: …
Flakka, the latest dangerous designer drug, has rapidly spread across the United States and beyond. This synthetic cathinone has powerful stimulant effects leading to delirium, aggression, dangerous health issues, and even death. What is Flakka and Why Is It So Troubling? Flakka, commonly referred to as gravel or bath salts, is the street name for …
