Smoking remains a major public health issue. Nicotine, the primary addictive component of tobacco, may enhance cognition but also drives continued use. Understanding nicotine’s effects on the brain is key for developing better interventions. Key facts: Nicotine enhances functions like attention, motor skills, and memory but mechanisms remain unclear. Genetic variations predict responses to nicotine’s …
Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness characterized by hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking and behavior. While antipsychotic medications can help manage symptoms, their long-term effects on brain structure are not fully understood. A new study provides important insights into how long-term antipsychotic treatment may impact gray matter in chronic schizophrenia. Key Facts: Both treated and untreated …
New research provides further evidence that insomnia is characterized by brain hyperarousal, even when controlling for symptoms of depression and anxiety. The study used electroencephalography (EEG) to measure daytime brain activity in patients with insomnia disorder compared to healthy controls. Key findings: Patients with insomnia disorder showed increased high-frequency beta and gamma brain wave activity …
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic and debilitating mental health condition characterized by obsessive, anxiety-provoking thoughts and compulsive rituals aimed at reducing anxiety. Affecting 1-3% of adults worldwide, OCD often begins in childhood and impairs functioning across life domains. Advances are being made on multiple fronts to better understand and treat this complex disorder. Key …
A 2016 study exploring whether machine learning can accurately predict criminality based solely on facial images has sparked debate on the social implications of such technology. The research, conducted by Chinese academics Xiaolin Wu and Xi Zhang, claims to be the first of its kind in using automated face recognition to categorize criminals versus non-criminals. …
Pharmaceuticals are pervading waterways globally, harming wildlife and presenting health risks when ingested by humans. Environmental bioethics must engage with this issue to uncover solutions. Key Facts: Over 600 pharmaceuticals have been detected in waterways worldwide. Common contaminants include cancer drugs, antidepressants, antibiotics, and more. 90% of medications pass through the human body and enter …
Tattoos have become increasingly mainstream over the past few decades, evolving from symbols of counterculture and rebellion to a more widely accepted form of self-expression. A national Australian study published in 2012 sought to examine the prevalence and characteristics of tattooing in a representative sample of adults. The key findings were: 14.5% of Australians ages …
A new study reveals intriguing differences in personality between tattooed and non-tattooed individuals. While effect sizes were small, tattooed participants scored higher in sensation-seeking and need for uniqueness compared to their non-inked counterparts. Key Facts: 22% of the 540 study participants had at least one tattoo Tattooed individuals scored higher in extroversion, need for uniqueness, …
Energy drinks are beverages that contain ingredients such as caffeine, taurine, and herbal extracts designed to provide mental and physical stimulation. Their popularity and consumption have grown exponentially in recent years, especially among young people. However, concerns have emerged about potential dangers and side effects. Key facts from a recent systematic review: 96,549 people who …
Antipsychotic medications are commonly used to treat psychotic disorders like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. However, these drugs often cause side effects like elevated prolactin levels, which can negatively impact long-term health. A new study analyzed medical records to compare prolactin levels between patients taking different antipsychotics. It found risperidone and amisulpride caused the greatest prolactin …
