Human : Science World Report

Apr 16, 2014 05:02 PM EDT

Apathy in Old Age Could be a Sign your Brain's Shrinking

A recent study conducted by researchers with the National Institute on Aging shows that apathy, or lack of emotion, may be one of the first signs to suggest a deteriorating mind during old age.

Apr 16, 2014 04:19 PM EDT

Could Naps be Dangerous? Study

Just as that afternoon slump hits, many of his might enjoy a little nap to feel rejuvenated, refreshed and less grouchy during the rest of the day. Yet a recent study shows that if you're frequently catching some extra sleep before bedtime, it could be sign of a greater health issue.

Apr 16, 2014 07:43 PM EDT

Men's Beards and Women's Interests: Hipster Facial Hair Going Out of Style Soon

The contemporary hipster subculture, oddly enough, has gained notice through their beard fashions (and facial hair transplants to perfect their beards). But if we’ve learned anything from history, this beard trend is likely to pass, and then repeat.

Apr 16, 2014 07:38 PM EDT

French Laboratory Loses Over 2,000 SARS Virus Vials

Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) was first identified in 2003 when an outbreak occurred in China and spread to four continents, killing nearly 800 people. The Pasteur Institute in Paris reported they lost over 2,000 SARS vials last week.

Apr 16, 2014 02:11 PM EDT

Cancer Risk Behaviors are Higher in Masculine Boys and Feminine Girls

A new study shows that gender expression could play a big role in terms of whether boys and girls engage in cancer risk behaviors. The Harvard School of Public Health had their study published today in the Journal of Adolescent Health.

Apr 16, 2014 01:40 PM EDT

Digital Distractions: Children Lose 7 Minutes of Sleep for Every Hour of TV

For many of us, spending an hour or two a day watching our favorite shows can be exciting, entertaining and a great way to relax. Yet a recent study shows for children in particular, too much TV may interfere with their sleep.

Apr 16, 2014 01:17 PM EDT

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a Significant Risk Factor for Breast Cancer, Not Body Shape

Abdominal obesity is linked to numerous conditions, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and forms of cancer. A new study suggests that one’s body shape as a result of obesity does not necessarily pose a higher risk for breast cancer.

Apr 16, 2014 01:02 PM EDT

PET Scans may Spot Potential of Coma Recovery

A recent study takes an in-depth look into identifying comatose patients who may carry a potential for recovery.

Apr 16, 2014 11:54 AM EDT

Food Texture may Influence our Perception of Calorie Content

Ever wonder why some foods are more appealing than others? Of course, some of us just may never like broccoli, but others might love watermelon. Our taste buds tell a story about what foods we'll typically be most fond of. Yet a recent study shows how the shape, texture and coloring of different pro...

Apr 16, 2014 12:40 PM EDT

Herb Supplements Are an Important Complementary Form of Medicine in the United States

Per a report that will be published today by the National Health Care Surveys (NHCS), nearly 18% of Americans took herbal supplements in 2012, making them the most common form of complementary medicine in the U.S. besides vitamins.

Apr 16, 2014 11:09 AM EDT

Use of Recreational Marijuana may Alter Brain Region Linked to Motivation

Marijuana is no longer a taboo topic. Twenty U.S. states have now legalized the drug for medicinal purposes, while both Colorado and Washington have also legalized it for recreational uses, as well. As it's estimated that around 18.9 million people recently used the drug, according to an analysis b...

Apr 16, 2014 11:39 AM EDT

Droughts in West and Arctic Winters in the East: A 4000-Year Weather Pattern Explained

This past winter, the West (particularly California) experienced droughts and the East faced extreme and fluctuating winter weather. Researchers from across the world found interesting information about the jet stream pattern that causes this.