Bird songs good for mental health

Two studies report that hearing or seeing birds improves mental health. Even recorded bird songs have the same health benefits. The reason? Birds allow us to feel more connected to nature. It should come as no surprise that noises like traffic decrease mood.

Amputees could feel warmth with new technology

New technology has the potential to let amputees feel temperature in their phantom limbs. The device is made up of thermal electrodes and is worn on the skin of the residual limb. In addition to temperature, amputees were also been able to tell the difference between copper, plastic, and glass. "Temperature feedback is essential for relaying information that goes beyond touch, it leads to feelings of affection. We are social beings and warmth is an important part of that, " Silvestro Micera a professor at EPFL and Sant'Anna School of Advanced Studies and co-leader of the study said in an interview.

Queer women more likely to suffer from cardiovascular problems

When compared to heterosexual women, lesbian and bisexual women are more likely to suffer from heart problems, according to a new study. This comes from being exposed to different levels of specific stressors associated with being in the LGBTQ+ community. Alcohol abuse and smoking are some of the areas of interest since they are associated with poor heart health. Gay and bisexual men on the other hand have higher rates of heart heath than their heterosexual counterparts.