An assertive person expresses themselves clearly and calmly, with confidence. They recognize they can keep learning and therefore do not fear a challenge or a difference of opinion. They regard their own needs as legitimate and, while appearing self-assured, are not aggressive. In conversation an assertive person respects both themselves and the people with whom … Read more

Summary: During REM sleep the brain’s locus coeruleus reduces or stops releasing noradrenaline, which helps decouple the emotional charge from memories. When this REM-related process is interrupted—common in restless or fragmented sleep—memories can remain emotionally powerful, contributing to rumination and symptoms similar to PTSD. For people who sleep well, emotional intensity linked to embarrassing or … Read more

Summary: Many dog owners and enthusiasts believe dogs can tell who is trustworthy, but new evidence suggests the picture is more complicated. Researchers tested 40 pet dogs to see whether they form reputations of people by watching how those people treated another dog. The study found no clear preference for a generous person over a … Read more

Summary: New research adds to evidence that chronic, low-grade inflammation during pregnancy is linked to a higher risk of neurodevelopmental delays in children. Source: Elsevier Obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, depression and anxiety during pregnancy are associated with greater odds of learning difficulties, behavioral problems and early mental health concerns in children. A study published … Read more

Have you ever tried yoga? Today, most people will answer “yes.” Yoga has evolved from a niche practice into one of the most popular forms of physical activity and group classes in the United States and many other countries. While its image in the West once leaned toward spiritual experimentation, modern yoga emphasizes physical health, … Read more

Summary: Researchers report that adaptive music systems that sync tempo and rhythm to a user’s movement can make exercise more enjoyable and more motivating. These personalized interactive music systems (PIMSs) use real‑time data from wearables and smartphones to align musical features with walking, cycling, or strength training intensity, helping users keep time, maintain effort, and … Read more

Many couples first seek relationship counseling to repair their marriage. When efforts to reconcile fail, or when one or both partners feel they have nothing left to give, separation and divorce may become the chosen path. Although divorce can be a final and painful decision, counseling during this process can ease emotional strain and support … Read more

Summary: Researchers have created an AI-based method that uses brain scans and clinical information to predict, within one week, whether the antidepressant sertraline will be effective for a patient with major depressive disorder. This approach can reduce unnecessary prescriptions, limit side effects, and speed up access to effective treatments, advancing personalized care and lowering social … Read more

Update September 2019: It’s remarkable that two years after this post first appeared, readers are still engaging with it. Reading the comments often reveals more about human nature than the article itself, because comments frequently expose strong cognitive biases—especially confirmation bias and cognitive dissonance reduction. Please read the article before commenting. Thank you. Do you … Read more

Summary: Virologists and computational scientists agree that the ways humans handle, trade, and encroach on wildlife have likely played a major role in the COVID-19 pandemic and other recent viral outbreaks. Source: USC As the world confronts the coronavirus emergency on the brink of Earth Day’s 50th anniversary, experts ask whether nature is sending us … Read more