Conditional Consciousness: Predicting Recovery from the Vegetative State

 

Tests reveal patients in vegetative states can form new memories.

In patients who have survived severe brain damage, judging the level of actual awareness has proved a difficult process. And the prognosis can sometimes mean the difference between life and death. New research suggests that some vegetative patients are capable of simple learning—a sign of consciousness in many who had failed other traditional cognitive tests. Read more

For Sale: Human Eggs Become a Research Commodity

A decision to pay for eggs for stem cell studies sparks debate

 

Paying a woman for her eggs to use in stem cell research has been a bioethical no-no for years. But this past June, New York State decided to allow just that, becoming the first state to permit public money to be used in this way. The decision, which allows payment of up to $10,000, will likely jump-start donations—and thereby research. Many bioethicists, however, worry that the financial incentive could exploit women and compromise their health. Read more

Green tea eases stress and fatigue from overworking

 

Green tea has an impressive of list of health benefits. Studies have reported that green tea can help prevent Alzheimer’s, certain cancers, and improve cardiovascular health. Some health experts have asserted that green tea can help alleviate stress as well. Read more