Summary: A new study shows that specific human brain cells respond not only to odors but also to images and written words associated with those scents, offering fresh insight into how we perceive smells. Researchers recorded single-neuron activity in regions such as the primary olfactory (piriform) cortex, amygdala, hippocampus and entorhinal cortex, and found that … Read more

Have you ever imagined writing your own obituary? If you paused and considered your life as it stands today—young or old—would you say you have lived well? That question leads to another: what exactly qualifies as a life well lived? Interest in this question has grown substantially. Researchers across philosophy and psychology have re-examined ancient … Read more

Patient-derived stem cells reveal how an alpha-synuclein mutation increases vulnerability to pesticides and contributes to Parkinson’s disease Researchers identify a protective molecule and clarify a gene–environment mechanism that kills dopamine-producing neurons. A multi-institutional research team has provided new molecular insight into how genetic susceptibility combined with environmental exposure can destroy the dopamine-producing neurons that control … Read more

Summary: Rising heat and more frequent extreme temperatures driven by global warming are expected to harm public health and reduce productivity. Experts warn that people with temperature-sensitive conditions, particularly multiple sclerosis (MS), face increased risks because heat reliably worsens their symptoms. Source: Cedars Sinai Hospital Climate-driven temperature increases threaten worker productivity worldwide, says Nancy Sicotte, … Read more

Self-expression is a vital part of healing through play. For children especially, playful activities trigger dopamine release, making tasks more enjoyable and helping them stay focused and motivated. Play therapy is useful across the lifespan. Structured therapy games can support older children and adults as they process events and developmental issues from earlier stages (O’Connor … Read more

Summary: A new study from the University of British Columbia shows that older Canadian women who remain socially isolated over time are more likely to eat fewer fruits and vegetables, leading to lower overall diet quality. Using data from more than 30,000 adults followed for six years, researchers found that sustained social engagement—especially across a … Read more

Summary: Tumor Paint (BLZ-100) helps surgeons identify and remove brain tumor tissue, improving outcomes for a young child with medulloblastoma. Source: Seattle Children’s Hospital. Early signs and an unexpected diagnosis In late December, Laura Coffman noticed her 2-year-old son, Hunter, leaning to one side and losing his balance more than usual. When he became increasingly … Read more

The Simple Habit That Can Smooth Your Everyday Life: Gratitude The number one thing that holds people back from living a calm, connected, and satisfying life is surprisingly simple: Not practicing gratitude. You can accumulate money, accomplishments, and status, yet without gratitude these things tend to evaporate into a background of indifference. When we fail … Read more

Being Bilingual May Help Children with Autism Improve Cognitive Flexibility Summary: Researchers at McGill University report that bilingualism may help children on the autism spectrum with certain executive functions, particularly the ability to switch between tasks. Source: McGill University New research suggests that growing up bilingual can offer benefits for some children with Autism Spectrum … Read more