People with paranormal beliefs spooked by science and the COVID-19 vaccine, sociologists suggest

Previous research has shown that people with conservative religious beliefs are more likely to lack confidence in the COVID-19 vaccine, but most studies have observed only mainstream or institutionalized religious forms. Researchers were curious whether paranormal beliefs -- beliefs in astrology and spirits, for instance -- would be associated with a similar lack of confidence.

New study expands range of potential Alzheimer's drugs

Alzheimer's disease is associated with a reduction of insulin receptors in brain microvessels, which may contribute to brain insulin resistance and the formation of amyloid plaques, one of the disease's hallmarks. The findings could affect the search for new Alzheimer's drugs.

Lower mortality rates for men 50-plus who attend religious services, study suggests

Can regularly attending religious services actually extend your life? A new study suggests that men of color are discovering life affirming -- and life extending -- rewards of belonging to a community of worship.

Teachers' turnover intentions, burnout and poor work climate are interlinked

The risk of burnout and poor experienced teacher-working environment fit is increased among teachers with persistent turnover intentions. However, positive experiences in the workplace seem to protect against cynicism and exhaustion, according to a new study.

Psychedelics may lessen fear of death and dying, similar to feelings reported by those who've had near death experiences

In a survey study of more than 3,000 adults, researchers compared psychedelic experiences with near-death experiences that were not drug related and found notable similarities in people's attitudes toward death.

Religiousness, spirituality linked to better heart health among African Americans

In a study of nearly 3,000 African American adults, those who reported more frequent church attendance, private prayer and 'feeling God's presence' were more likely to meet the American Heart Association's key metrics for optimal cardiovascular health, compared to others reporting less frequent religious participation or no such beliefs. Researchers note this is the first evidence that strong religious beliefs and spirituality may have beneficial effects on the heart health of African American men and women.

Study with military suggests 'blended' individual and team mindfulness is at least as effective as standard mindfulness training

New study suggests that a 'blended' eight-week mindfulness program that adds Team Mindfulness Training (TMT) to a shortened version of the mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) course for individual mindfulness is just as effective as the standard MBSR course alone. It may even offer further benefit by increasing collective stress management skills.