A new study conducted in rural South India has found that people whose parents are blood relatives (consanguineous marriage) have an increased risk of developing schizophrenia compared to the general population. Key Facts: Researchers recruited 120 patients with schizophrenia and 222 healthy controls from the same rural region in South India. 10.7% of patients with …
Electrical neural interfaces are unlocking new possibilities for studying, restoring, and augmenting brain functions. These devices provide direct communication pathways to connect the nervous system with the external world. Recent innovations in neural electrode design, electronics, wireless transmission, integration of electrical and optical modalities, and neural data processing are rapidly advancing the capabilities of electrical …
Research reveals that our perception of multitasking is often an illusion – most cognitive tasks cannot actually be done simultaneously. Surprisingly, this illusion of multitasking can improve performance on activities, even when the tasks remain unchanged. Key Facts: Although multitasking refers to doing multiple things concurrently, true multitasking is rare for cognitive tasks requiring attention. …
Focused ultrasound is emerging as a potentially revolutionary new tool for precisely stimulating the brain without surgery. This novel approach could transform how we diagnose and treat everything from depression and OCD to Alzheimer’s and stroke. Key Facts: Focused ultrasound uses precise sound waves to stimulate small regions deep in the brain without any incisions. …
A major new study provides evidence that environmental factors, not genetics, are the primary drivers behind the Flynn effect – the steady rise in IQ scores observed over the 20th century. Researchers analyzed IQ data from over 700,000 Norwegian males and found that changes in IQ occur even between brothers from the same family. This …
Our genes influence more than just our raw intelligence and problem-solving abilities. The latest discoveries in the genetics of intelligence are showing how our DNA shapes how we learn, our educational attainment, occupational success, and even our health outcomes. Genetic research is revealing the deep connections between inherited cognitive capacities and multiple aspects of life. …
Edible insects offer immense potential as a sustainable and nutritious protein source that could help feed the growing global population. Key facts: Nearly 2 billion people worldwide already eat insects as part of their diet and culture. Insects require far less resources (land, water, feed) to produce the same amount of protein as livestock. Farm-raised …
A large study of Finnish men found that lower IQ scores were associated with committing more crimes and engaging in a wider variety of criminal offenses. Men with the lowest IQ were the most likely to have criminal records, especially for violent crimes. However, the increase in criminal behavior was gradual as IQ decreased, rather …
Criminal behavior has complex origins. While social and psychological factors play a clear role, a growing body of research suggests biological factors also influence criminality. Here’s what the science says so far about the biology underlying criminal behavior. Key Facts: Genetics account for 40-60% of variance in antisocial behavior. Environmental factors also play a role. …
Semaglutide is emerging as a wonder drug for management of various metabolic diseases. Originally approved for type 2 diabetes, this glucagon like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist is now showing promise for treating obesity, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Let’s explore the therapeutic potential of semaglutide and how it acts as …
