ScienCentral » Brain & Psychology

Smarter City Birds

ScienCentral — Thu, 24 May 2012 04:26:42 +0000

Birds with street smarts Are you a city person or do you prefer country living? Though it may not take more intelligence to live in a city, at least for birds, it does take adaptability.

Girls Vs. Boys at Math

ScienCentral — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Are men naturally better at math than women or is that just an out-dated stereotype? When former Harvard president Larry Summers said publicly in 2005 that men are innately better at math, many women were outraged. So a couple of women scientists decided to research it. This ScienCentral News video explains their report published this week.

Thin Brains and Depression

ScienCentral — Thu, 28 May 2009 17:26:15 +0000

It's well known that depression in your family puts you at high risk of depression. Now researchers have found a structural difference in the brain that could explain why. Animation: 3-D brain scan, the cortex layer peels away, courtesy Bradley Peterson

Money vs. Happiness

ScienCentral — Thu, 14 May 2009 03:59:58 +0000

It's commencement time, and psychology researchers say those valedictory speeches about how success isn't measured in riches are much more than mere platitudes. As this ScienCentral News video explains, they've found new evidence that "American Dream" achievements like wealth, fame and image are not the keys to happiness.

Go Play Outside

ScienCentral — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 15:35:37 +0000

Feeling like you’re suffering from brain drain and you can’t concentrate? Psychologists have now found out that taking some time to interact with nature, even in cold weather, can make you a bit smarter.

Thrill Seekers Lack Brakes In The Brain

ScienCentral — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 17:03:14 +0000

New research gives a possible explanation for why some of us are thrill seekers and others like to play it safe. The study found that some of us can’t control the release of a certain brain chemical.

“Cuddle Hormone” Improves Memory

ScienCentral — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 16:24:32 +0000

The so-called “cuddle hormone” is known to increase generosity and trust. Now a new study shows it can improve a certain kind of memory.

Diabetes Drug Linked To Alzheimer’s

ScienCentral — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 22:24:17 +0000

Research published today is suggesting that a commonly prescribed drug to control blood sugar might increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease. But, as this ScienCentral News video explains, it also suggests that using the drug in combination with insulin might reduce the risk.

Food Flavor Mystery Solved

ScienCentral — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 17:25:32 +0000

We’re all familiar with sweet, salty, bitter and sour tastes. But how many of us have heard of umami (pronounced oo-MAH-mee)? The so-called “fifth taste” is found in soups, meats, seafood and cheese.

Red Sways Men

ScienCentral — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 13:44:54 +0000

It may be that red is the color of Valentine’s Day because hearts are red. Or there may be more to it than that. Psychology researchers have found that the color red makes women more attractive to males.