Money has a profound effect on our psychology. When presented with the opportunity to gain monetary rewards, the reward pathways in our brains activate, causing our pupils to dilate in anticipation. However, a recent study has highlighted a significant difference in individuals with clinical depression – the lack of pupil dilation during reward anticipation. This
Health
The overconsumption of calories often leads to various health conditions, including obesity. However, there is another disorder that affects a significant number of individuals and is often associated with a lack of self-control: alcohol use disorder. With an estimated 16 million people in the US alone affected by this condition, finding effective treatment options is
In recent years, the number of Victorians contracting the flesh-eating bacteria known as Buruli ulcer has been on the rise. Last year, a record-breaking 363 cases were reported, bringing attention to the urgent need for understanding how this bacterial infection spreads. While it has long been suspected that mosquitoes play a role in the transmission
Schizophrenia, a debilitating neurological disorder, has long remained a mystery, nestled deep within the intricate interplay of genetic and environmental factors. While the roots of this disorder have been thought to primarily lie in inherited genes, recent research suggests that its origins may be unearthed in the early stages of gestation. A team of researchers
In a groundbreaking study conducted by scientists in China, a new class of antidepressant medication has shown potential in not only treating depression but also combating certain types of cancer. When combined with anti-tumor drugs, ansofaxine hydrochloride, an oral antidepressant, has demonstrated the ability to inhibit colon cancer cell growth in both cell cultures and
Autism, a complex neurodevelopmental disorder, has been predominantly associated with males. However, recent research conducted on mice challenges this notion, suggesting that male and female brains may be equally prone to autism. This finding brings to light the urgent need to include both male and female subjects in studies pertaining to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
For years, scientists have speculated about the connection between Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is a debilitating autoimmune disease that affects approximately 36 individuals per 100,000 worldwide. However, the specific mechanism through which EBV triggers the immune system to attack the body’s own cells has remained a mystery. Recent research conducted at
Weight loss and diabetes drugs like Wegovy, Ozempic, and Mounjaro have gained significant attention in health news due to their effectiveness in targeting regulatory pathways related to obesity and diabetes. These drugs are considered breakthroughs, but do they address the root cause of metabolic disease? The development of these drugs was inspired by the natural
Cannabis has long been associated with inducing the famous “munchies” effect among its users. A study conducted by neuroscientists at Washington State University (WSU) delves into the reasons behind this notorious side effect. By examining the real-time activity of brain regions responsible for controlling appetite, the researchers have made groundbreaking discoveries. Their findings not only
In a groundbreaking study, researchers have discovered that cancer patients who smoke have better outcomes for a specific treatment aimed at restricting cellular death. These unexpected observations led scientists to investigate the relationship between smoking, carbon monoxide (CO), and autophagy inhibition in cancer treatment. The results of their experiments on mice and human tissue in
Climate change has long been recognized as a threat to the survival of polar bears. However, these majestic creatures now face a new deadly challenge – bird flu. A polar bear from northern Alaska recently died from the disease, highlighting the potential implications for the wider polar bear population, as well as other large mammals
As the new year begins, many people are setting resolutions to be more physically active in the year ahead. With the growing popularity of activity trackers, individuals have the opportunity to monitor their daily activity levels and measure their progress towards their fitness goals. However, with a wide range of options available, it can be