Researchers discover novel mediator of once-mysterious chronic itch

Although it was first reported in 1880, there has been little research conducted on prurigo nodularis (PN), an inflammatory chronic skin disorder characterized by firm, intensely itchy nodules that appear across the arms, legs and torso. PN disrupts the sleep and quality of life of those afflicted, and while its cause is largely unknown, it’s …

Study says failure to rid amyloid beta protein from brain may lead to Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease is one of medicine’s most elusive thieves, a disease that slowly and irreversibly robs a person’s ability to think, reason, remember and maintain normal body functioning. The underlying cause of Alzheimer’s disease is unknown, but researchers believe that one of the prime suspects is a microscopic fragment of protein known as amyloid beta …

Molecular changes in tissue microenvironment may promote colorectal cancer

According to the National Cancer Institute, colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer diagnosed in the United States, predicted to strike nearly 150,000 people in 2021. The agency also estimates the disease will kill approximately 53,000 Americans this year, making it the nation’s second leading cause of cancer mortality. Even more disturbing, say the …

Scientists Create an Interactive Map of the 13 Emotions Evoked by Music: Joy, Sadness, Desire, Annoyance, and More

Most of our playlists today are filled with music about emotions: usually love, of course, but also excitement, defiance, anger, devastation, and a host of others besides. We listen to these songs in order to appreciate the musicianship that went into them, but also to indulge in their emotions for ourselves. As for what exactly …