Summary: A recent review examines evidence connecting the gut microbiome to brain development and depressive disorders. The authors highlight how disruptions to gut bacteria—caused by diet, stress, antibiotics, or early-life events—may influence mental health and suggest that nutrition-based strategies could complement existing treatments. Linking the Gut Microbiome, Neurodevelopment, and Depression Overview Researchers are increasingly investigating … Read more

Summary: New research finds little evidence that higher testosterone has a meaningful impact on socioeconomic status, health, or risk-taking in men or women. Source: University of Bristol As major sporting events like the Olympics prompt attention to hormone-related performance, testosterone is often credited with success both on and off the field. However, a new large-scale … Read more

Positive psychotherapy: at first glance the phrase may seem paradoxical. The word psychotherapy often conjures images of tense patients lying on couches, a serious therapist taking notes, and lengthy explorations of childhood trauma. While that stereotype is outdated and incomplete, it can make the idea of pairing positivity and therapy feel surprising. Traditionally, psychotherapy addresses … Read more

Advanced brain imaging links specific schizophrenia symptoms to distinct anatomical features, a study at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis reports. The results could help refine diagnosis and lead to more targeted treatments for schizophrenia. The study, published online in the journal NeuroImage, used high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and diffusion tensor imaging … Read more

Summary: Multisensory gamma-wave stimulation improves recognition and spatial memory in mice and reduces amyloid burden in the auditory cortex and hippocampal CA1. These findings indicate that combined sensory stimulation strengthens hippocampal function and diminishes Alzheimer’s-related pathology across the neocortex. Source: MIT By exposing mice to a coordinated combination of light and sound, MIT neuroscientists have … Read more

Our family of origin plays a powerful role in shaping who we become. From our habits and emotional responses to the choices we make in life, family dynamics influence us whether we feel close to our relatives or distant from them. Bowenian family systems theory views the family as an emotional unit: individual behavior is … Read more

Summary: Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections can reduce negative emotional responses in people with borderline personality disorder. Source: MHH Botulinum toxin (BTX), widely known as Botox, is commonly used to smooth wrinkles. Research now shows that when injected into the forehead it can also reduce depressive symptoms and dampen intense negative emotions in people with borderline … Read more

Summary: Researchers using zebrafish models found genes with altered expression linked to mitochondrial dysfunction and reduced ATP production, suggesting early energy deficits could play a key role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Source: University of Adelaide Rethinking the Origins of Alzheimer’s Disease Despite decades of research, the underlying cause of Alzheimer’s disease remains unclear. … Read more

How can managers best motivate employees and boost productivity? This is one of the most important questions for anyone in a leadership role. Experts commonly agree with behavior specialist Aubrey Daniels that positive reinforcement is an exceptionally powerful leadership tool, yet many managers struggle with when, how, and which rewards to use. This article collects … Read more

Summary: A systematic review and meta-analysis finds a moderate association between antipsychotic use and an increased risk of breast cancer. Source: University of Hong Kong A research team from the Center for Safe Medication Practice and Research (CSMPR), Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong (HKUMed) conducted the … Read more