A study just published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (AJCN) adds to the growing body of evidence demonstrating that cognitive function is improved with a diet high in cocoa flavanols—a group of naturally occurring bioactives found in fresh cocoa beans.

While predictions can be dangerous, especially concerning the future, it’s usually helpful to plan ahead. Here are five biomedical research topics the Emory University Lab Land team thinks will claim some attention in 2015.

Salk scientists made a more effective diet pill.

Wanting to lose weight or quit smoking are often resolutions made at the beginning of the New Year. One University of Alabama at Birmingham wellness expert says there is a key ingredient to being successful health-wise in the coming year.

Researchers explore the power of mental visualization in maintaining real-life muscle.

The world owes a debt of gratitude to Simon Fraser University (SFU) biologist Regine Gries. Her arms have provided a blood meal for more than a thousand bedbugs each week for five years while she and her husband, biology professor Gerhard Gries, searched for a way to conquer the global bedbug epidemic.

Instead of an apple, could a hug-a-day keep the doctor away? According to new research from Carnegie Mellon University, that may not be that far-fetched of an idea.

Women exposed to high levels of fine particulate matter specifically during pregnancy—particularly during the third trimester—may face up to twice the risk of having a child with autism than mothers living in areas with low particulate matter, according to a new study from Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH). The greater the exposure, the greater the risk, researchers found. It was the first U.S.-wide study exploring the link between airborne particulate matter and autism.

A common over-the-counter drug that tackles pain and fever may also hold keys to a longer, healthier life, according to a Texas A&M AgriLife Research scientist. Regular doses of ibuprofen extended the lifespan of multiple species, according to research published in the journal Public Library of Science-Genetics.

Is that new iPad damaging your sleep?

Research published in MedCrave Online Journal of Proteomics and Bioinformatics.

Lungs are primary excretory organ for weight loss, find researchers