Constant Contact Increases Conflict in Confined Conditions

Summary: An international behavioral science study has exposed a counterintuitive “proximity paradox” within isolated crews. Investigating a 10-month overwintering mission at Antarctica’s Concordia Station, a premier real-world analog for Mars…

Treat or Train? Orexin Helps Brain Decide

Summary: Researchers have identified orexin, a brain chemical, as crucial in deciding between exercising and indulging in treats. In experiments with mice, those with an intact orexin system were more…

Pupil Size Regulated by Orexin, Not Stress Hormones

Summary: Researchers have discovered that the neurotransmitter orexin, not the stress hormone noradrenaline, regulates pupil size, challenging prior understanding. Orexin neurons affect pupil size in response to emotional states and…

Meditation Diminishes Bias Toward Negative Information

Summary: A new study reveals that daily mindfulness meditation can help reduce individuals’ tendency to avoid negative information. The practice of regular mindfulness meditation allows people to better process uncomfortable…