Omega-3 fatty acids like DHA and EPA have been shown to benefit brain health and cognitive function. Key facts: Omega-3s make up a large proportion of the brain’s fatty acid content. DHA is the most abundant. They support neuron growth, improve blood flow, and protect against inflammation. Multiple studies link omega-3 intake to better memory, …
A new study reveals that people who identify as liberal or left-leaning politically exhibit greater neural empathy responses compared to conservatives. The findings provide novel neuroscientific evidence that ideological differences extend to brain function during empathy. Key Facts: Researchers used MEG brain imaging to measure neural empathy responses in 55 participants as they observed others’ …
Human intelligence is a complex cognitive trait that has fascinated scientists and philosophers for centuries. New research is shedding light on the neurobiological underpinnings of intelligence, from genes to cells to brain networks. Key Facts: Intelligence is one of the most heritable human behavioral traits, with genetics explaining 50-80% of variability between individuals. Over 1000 …
Human intelligence has long fascinated scientists. With modern neuroimaging methods like MRI, we now have an unprecedented ability to examine the biological basis of intelligence in the living brain. Key Facts: Larger brain size predicts greater intelligence, but regional brain volumes matter more than total size. More intelligent individuals tend to have greater volumes in …
Synthetic cathinones like MDPV emerged as drugs of abuse in the early 2010s, gaining notoriety for their powerful stimulant effects and association with bizarre intoxication and death. Despite legislation banning MDPV and its analogs, these substances continue circulating in the drug marketplace. Understanding the pharmacology of MDPV provides insight on its abuse liability, toxic effects, …
Kava kava, an herbal supplement made from the root of Piper methysticum, has gained popularity as an alternative treatment for anxiety and insomnia. A recent systematic review and meta-analysis re-examined kava kava’s effectiveness and safety for anxiety disorders. The authors concluded that kava kava is effective for short-term anxiety relief but long-term safety remains uncertain. …
Cocaine abuse leads to dysfunction of brain dopamine systems and the development of addiction. New research identifies changes in the dopamine transporter as a driving force underlying cocaine addiction, and points to a novel way to reverse these detrimental effects. Key Facts: Cocaine abuse caused the dopamine transporter to form larger complexes of multiple transporter …
Psychopathic individuals are known to commit a disproportionate amount of violence and crime. Yet the connections between psychopathy, intelligence and aggression are complex. A new study unpacks the links between these dangerous traits in men and women. Key Facts: Psychopathy was assessed using the Psychopathy Checklist: Screening Version which divides psychopathy into 4 facets – …
Phthalates, a class of chemicals used to make plastics more flexible and durable, may impact health across multiple generations. New research suggests phthalate exposure in one generation can lead to adverse effects in subsequent generations through changes in gene regulation. This raises concerns that the public health impacts of phthalates may be more extensive than …
New research reveals that lower intelligence and poorer emotional control in adolescence are associated with an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors over the life course. However, while lower intelligence is linked to a consistently higher suicide risk into late middle age, the association between emotional control and suicide risk diminishes in strength over …
