This week's top neuroscience stories feature diverse research, from exploring the role of timing in happiness to unveiling an unexpected correlation between middle-aged sexual satisfaction and cognitive decline. Another highlight includes the discovery of flavanols' role in combating age-related memory loss, as well as groundbreaking research linking personality traits with cognitive abilities. Lastly, a novel study reveals how breathing patterns, especially nasal inhalation, can enhance memory recall, suggesting potential new therapeutic strategies for cognitive decline.

A newly developed drug, Vorasidenib, has shown promise in prolonging progression-free survival for patients with a subtype of glioma. The international study found that patients taking Vorasidenib could go nearly 17 more months without their cancer worsening, postponing the need for radiation and chemotherapy.

Researchers made significant advancements in understanding how mRNA is distributed in brain cells. They discovered that a protein complex called FERRY aids Early Endosomes (EEs) to carry mRNAs to distant parts of the neuron.

Researchers explored potential treatments for neuropsychiatric disorders like schizophrenia and autism that act during critical windows of brain development. They specifically targeted underperforming dopamine neurons, which connect to the frontal cortex and are vital for cognitive processing and decision-making.

Researchers developed a machine learning algorithm, FoodProX, capable of predicting the degree of processing in food products. The tool scores foods on a scale from zero (minimally or unprocessed) to 100 (highly ultra-processed).

Age-related degeneration of myelin, the insulating layer around nerve cells in the brain, actively promotes disease-related changes in Alzheimer's. Researchers examined mouse models of Alzheimer's with myelin defects, finding that these defects accelerated the formation of amyloid plaques, a characteristic sign of Alzheimer's.

A phase 2 clinical trial of pembrolizumab has shown promising results, with 42% of patients with metastatic brain cancer benefiting from the treatment. The trial found that pembrolizumab, an immunotherapy, was tolerated and demonstrated clinical benefit in patients with brain metastases.

Adolescents with signs of alcohol dependency are more likely to suffer from depression in their mid-20s. The research, involving 3,902 participants from the ALSPAC study, examined the correlation between alcohol consumption and dependency at age 18 and depression at age 24.

Researchers made a significant discovery about how quickly our brains can identify people in positions of power. The team conducted a study in which participants interacted with others perceived to be significantly better or worse at a particular game.

Researchers provide evidence of how the brain consolidates memory during sleep. The study revealed that targeted deep-brain stimulation during a specific sleep phase can enhance memory consolidation.

New research has revealed that the immune response to spinal cord injuries diminishes as individuals age. The study sheds light on the key role the membranes around the spinal cord play in this immune response.

Researchers make strides in mapping the complex interplay between human cognition and personality traits. This study synthesized data from over 1,300 studies globally, representing 2 million participants, to examine how personality traits and cognitive abilities intertwine.