Summary: Scientists developed a mouse model that carries a genetic mutation linked to an increased risk of schizophrenia. By studying the Grin2a gene, they found significant changes in gene expression,…
Category: Life
Social justice environmental activists move to block gene editing to control invasive species and promote biodiversity. Here’s why they’re misguided
Hawaii has emerged as ground zero for efforts to raise the awareness of the dangers of invasive species. Just last month, biosecurity experts testified in the state legislature, forecasting more…
Marijuana Users Found to Have Elevated Lead Levels
Summary: Researchers found marijuana users have significantly higher levels of metals like lead and cadmium in their blood and urine. The study, which is one of the largest of its…
Who’s to Blame? How We Perceive Responsibility in Human-AI Collaborations
Summary: Even when people view AI-based assistants merely as tools, they still assign partial responsibility to these systems for decisions made. The research investigated how participants perceived responsibility when a…
Beer Goggles or Liquid Courage? Alcohol’s Real Effect on Attraction
Summary: Contrary to popular belief, alcohol doesn’t make people look more attractive, says a new study. The findings indicate alcohol consumption increases the likelihood of approaching people you already find…
Cigarettes Ignite the Risk of Mental Illness
Summary: A new study reveals a direct link between smoking and the increased risk of mental illnesses like depression and bipolar disorder. The research, based on data from 350,000 individuals…
Treating Mom’s Postnatal Depression with SSRIs Also Boosts Child Behavior
Summary: A new study found that treating postnatal depression with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) benefits not just mothers but also their children. The study, which analyzed data from over…
Good Sleep Habits Can Buffer Kids From Stress-Linked Impulsivity
Summary: A study reveals that adequate sleep can help children combat impulsive behaviors often induced by stressful environments. Researchers analyzed data from over 11,000 children aged 9-10, finding that those…
Genes Behind Depression Could Pave Way for Other Mental Disorders
Summary: Researchers completed the largest-ever genetic study on depression, encompassing 1.3 million genomes. Their findings indicate that individuals with hospital-treated depression have an increased genetic risk for other psychiatric conditions…
Exploring the hidden links—tree diversity effects in Finnish boreal forests – Functional Ecologists
In our new post, Julia Koricheva—a researcher at Royal Holloway University of London, UK—discusses her interest in effects of plant diversity on ecosystem functioning. Having worked extensively on long-term forest…
