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Common food additive may impact gut bacteria, increase anxiety

Emulsifiers are in many food products. A new study asks whether these chemicals might be having an impact on our physiology and psychology.

Neurons in the human visual cortex that respond to faces

A new study identifies the neurons in the human visual cortex that selectively respond to faces. The researchers showed that the neurons in the visual cortex (in the vicinity of the Fusiform Face Area) responded much more strongly to faces than to city…

Youthful cognitive ability strongly predicts mental capacity later in life

Early adult general cognitive ability is a stronger predictor of cognitive function and reserve later in life than other factors, such as higher education, occupational complexity or engaging in late-life intellectual activities.

How our brains distinguish between self-touch and touch by others

Our brains seem to reduce sensory perception from an area of our skin when we touch it ourselves, according to a new study. The finding increases our understanding of how the brain distinguishes between being touched by another person and self-touch.

The truth about ‘Blue Monday’

Blue Monday, the most depressing day of the year — is there any science behind it, or is it just a myth that has gained too much momentum over time?

Early prediction of Alzheimer’s progression: Blood protein

Scientists have shown that a protein found in the blood can be used to precisely monitor disease progression of Alzheimer’s long before first clinical signs appear. This blood marker offers new possibilities for testing therapies.

Unexpected link found between feeding and memory brain areas

Researchers reveal an unexpected connection between the lateral hypothalamus and the hippocampus, the respective feeding and the memory centers of the brain.

In China, a link between happiness and air quality

New research reveals that higher levels of pollution are associated with a decrease in people’s happiness levels.

Scientists find genes with large effects on head and brain size

The size of children’s heads is not only related to the growth of their skull, but also their brain. A genome-wide analysis now reports the largest known genetic effects on head circumference and the related measure of intracranial volume.

Brain training app improves users’ concentration

A new ‘brain training’ game improves users’ concentration, according to new research published today. The scientists behind the venture say this could provide a welcome antidote to the daily distractions that we face in a busy world.