Suicide is a leading cause of premature death worldwide. Social isolation is increasingly recognized as a major risk factor for suicide. Thorough understanding of this relationship is crucial to guide prevention efforts and policy. Key Facts: Nearly 800,000 people die by suicide each year globally, with many more attempting suicide. Social isolation significantly increases suicide …
Body art like tattoos and piercings have become increasingly popular among teenagers and young adults around the world. A new study from Chile suggests these body modifications may serve as red flags for risky behaviors like drug and alcohol abuse. Key Facts: 30% of Chilean high school students have piercings, while only 1.7% have tattoos. …
People with pathological narcissism are known for their grandiose, arrogant behavior and sense of entitlement. However, beneath the surface lies a vulnerable inner world rife with insecurity, emptiness, and dysregulated emotions, according to a new qualitative study. Key Facts: 436 partners and family members of people with high narcissistic traits described their relative’s emotional makeup …
New research suggests that having higher intelligence may reduce the risk of depression associated with neuroticism, a personality trait linked to emotional instability. Key Facts: Neuroticism is strongly associated with an increased risk of depression and psychological distress. Intelligence does not appear to protect against clinical diagnosis of major depressive disorder in highly neurotic individuals. …
Brain-machine interfaces (BMIs) are emerging devices that connect the human brain to computers and machines, enabling an unprecedented two-way flow of information and control. BMIs offer extraordinary new capabilities but also present profound ethical dilemmas we must confront. Key Facts: BMIs acquire brain signals, analyze them via algorithms, and translate them into commands that control …
New neuroimaging technologies are rapidly advancing our ability to examine the brain, revealing information about our memories, thoughts and even intentions. As these technologies improve, some are advocating for their use in criminal investigations and legal proceedings. But could mandatory brain scans used on suspects violate privacy rights? Key Facts: Neuroimaging technologies like MRI, CT, …
The use of neuroscience in criminal court cases has risen steeply in recent decades. However, its actual effects on legal judgments remain unclear. Key Facts: Neuroscience evidence, especially brain scans, is increasingly used in criminal trials to support mental disorder diagnoses. Studies find limited effects of neuroscience evidence in some cases, like reducing death penalty …
Vegetable oils are an essential part of a healthy diet, providing essential fatty acids and other beneficial nutrients. A new comprehensive review analyzes the chemical composition and health benefits of 39 different vegetable oils. Key Facts: Vegetable oils contain fatty acids, vitamins, plant sterols, antioxidants that promote health. Different oils have unique nutritional profiles and …
Alzheimer’s disease continues to destroy minds, but new gene editing techniques like CRISPR offer hope for better understanding and treating this devastating illness. Key Facts: Alzheimer’s disease is a complex, poorly understood neurodegenerative disorder affecting over 50 million people worldwide. Gene mutations play a role in early-onset Alzheimer’s, but late-onset Alzheimer’s involves a more complex …
Low intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) is an exciting new non-invasive brain stimulation technology that allows precise neuromodulation of deep brain structures without surgery. Early research shows LIFU can safely and reversibly modulate targeted areas of the brain using sound waves, opening doors for understanding and treating psychiatric illnesses. Key Facts: LIFU uses acoustic energy to …
