Summary: Researchers have explored how a fingertip’s mechanical memory of prior forces influences tactile neuron activity. The study unveils the importance of fingertip viscoelasticity, where deformations last longer than the…
Category: Life
Adolescent BMI Link: Rising Weights, Rising Depression Risks
Summary: New research identifies a strong correlation between higher BMI in children aged 12-16 and increased risks of depression symptoms. The association weakens for the age bracket 16-21, suggesting an…
Invasive engineers—global drivers of ecological change – Functional Ecologists
In this post, Prof. Gil Rilov—Senior Scientist at the National Institute of Oceanography, Israeli Limnological and Oceanographic Research (IOLR), as well as Associate Professor, at the University of Haifa, Israel—discusses…
Freezing adult corals could help ensure they survive a changing climate
Like something out of science fiction, small colonies of mature corals have been safely frozen and revived for the first time, though more work will be needed to ensure their…
The Paradox of Progress: Why More Freedom Isn’t Making Women Happier
Summary: Despite gains in freedom and employment opportunities, research indicates women are experiencing higher levels of anxiety, depression, and sleep issues than before. A survey suggests that dissatisfaction with societal…
Dark Traits, Broken Sleep: How Machiavellianism and Psychopathy Impact Rest
Summary: A recent study delves into the link between the Dark Triad personality traits—Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and narcissism—and sleep quality, particularly in individuals with affective disorders (AD). Using data from 657…
Gene Mutation Sheds Light on Schizophrenia Mysteries
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,…
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…