This new brain discovery could save lives
The CDC reports that an average of 130 people take their own lives every day in America. Scientists have found a marker in the brain that could help identify those who are more at risk of committing suicide. Research in the Journal of Affective Disorders uncovered specific neural connections that doctors may be able to identify before someone attempts to end their life. The paper shows this marker in the cognitive control and self-reflective neural networks of our brain (Boston University).
Have you heard the news?
Probably not, if you’re over the age of 75. Researchers estimate that at least half of this population is affected by hearing loss, but haven’t known what causes it. A new study in Genome Medicine gives us more insight into factors that increase a person’s chances of developing hearing loss later in life. Some of the indicators are gender, ancestry, hormone regulation, and tobacco smoking.
Scientists are getting up close and personal with our guts
Research in the journal Nature Metabolism shows how a special capsule can collect new data about our digestion and the organisms that live inside our gut microbiome. After swallowing the small pill, it travels through our digestive system, gathering biofluid and microorganisms. Scientists then retrieve it from our stool and analyze the sample.
Watching the clock may be worsening your insomnia
The sleeping disorder affects up to 22% of adults in the U.S. In a new study in the journal Primary Care Companion for CNS Disorders, many people report constant ‘time monitoring.’ They look at the clock, concerned they won’t get enough sleep and estimate how many hours they have before the alarm goes off. Researchers say this practice leads to frustration and impairs your ability to fall asleep (Indiana University).
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