Science News for August 2, 2015

'Brain training' app may improve memory and daily functioning of people with schizophrenia

A brain training iPad game has been shown to improve the memory of patients with schizophrenia, enabling them to function better in their daily lives. The study found significant improvements in episodic memory and global functioning, suggesting a potential therapeutic tool for managing the condition.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateAug 2, 2015

Want to boost your toddler's development? Put a toy chicken on your head!

A University of Sheffield study found that parents' joking and pretending with their children as young as 16 months old helps them develop essential life skills. By picking up on parental cues, toddlers learn to distinguish between joke and pretend intentions, leading to improved cognitive abilities and creative thinking.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalCognitive Science·DateAug 2, 2015

If you're using drugs, scientists want to help you avoid addiction

Researchers at the University of Montreal found that how fast and how often drugs are taken contribute to addiction risk. Injection and smoking increase brain levels rapidly, leading to high cravings and compulsive behavior.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalNeuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews·DateAug 2, 2015

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Brain teaser: 3-D printed 'tissue' to help combat disease

Researchers at ARC Centre of Excellence for Electromaterials Science develop a 6-layered structure incorporating neural cells, mimicking brain tissue. The breakthrough enables important insights into brain function and provides an experimental test bed for new drugs and electroceuticals.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Electromaterials Science·JournalBiomaterials·DateAug 2, 2015