Add BrightSurf on Google Email

The brain speaks

Researchers translated brain signals into words using two grids of 16 microelectrodes implanted beneath the skull but atop the brain. The study showed that the method can distinguish between brain signals for each word, with an accuracy rate of 76-90%, demonstrating proof of concept.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Neural Engineering·DateSep 6, 2010

Reading terrorists minds about imminent attack

A new Northwestern University study has developed a technology that can detect imminent terrorist attacks by correlating P300 brain waves with guilty knowledge in mock terrorism scenarios. The test was accurate in identifying critical concealed information, even without prior knowledge of the planned crime.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPsychophysiology·DateJul 30, 2010

New nanoscale electrical phenomenon discovered

Researchers have discovered a new nanoscale electrical phenomenon that allows for nondestructive transmission of electricity through glass, enabling the development of faster and less expensive portable diagnostic devices. This breakthrough could also enable significant advancements in building micro-mechanical and lab-on-a-chip devices.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMay 18, 2010

Discarded data may be gateway to new brain insights

Researchers found significant patterns in discarded brain wave data, revealing connections between low-frequency and high-frequency brain waves. These connections suggest important aspects of brain architecture and function, potentially shedding light on the brain's organizational structure.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateMay 12, 2010

To see or not to see

Scientists identified rapid bursts of neural activity in high-order visual centers when patients correctly recognized target images, suggesting a 'threshold' for conscious perceptual awareness. The study found that brain processing time is crucial for ignition, with mask presentation too soon 'killing' visual input signals.

Scientists get first close look at stimulated brain

Researchers at Harvard Medical School used two-photon microscopy to track calcium levels in neurons during electrical stimulation, revealing a scattered and widely distributed set of neurons switch on. The findings contradict a long-standing hypothesis and suggest that axons are being stimulated rather than cell bodies.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNeuron·DateAug 26, 2009

1 step closer to an artificial nerve cell

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed an electrically conducting plastic delivery electrode that releases specific neurotransmitters to activate neighboring brain cells, enabling precise control of neural signals. This technology has the potential to treat various neurological conditions, including hearing loss, epilepsy,...

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Materials·DateJul 7, 2009

Reading the brain without poking it

A new study from the University of Utah shows that microelectrodes can detect brain signals controlling arm movements without penetrating the brain. This technology may enable amputees and paralyzed individuals to control prosthetic limbs and computers using their thoughts.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNeurosurgical FOCUS·DateJun 28, 2009

MIT: New system monitors fetal heartbeat

A new system developed by MIT scientists can monitor the fetal heartbeat noninvasively, allowing for early detection of potential problems. The system separates the maternal ECG signal from the fetus's and background noise thanks to a complex algorithm, enabling clinicians to catch subtle variations in the fetal heartbeat.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering·DateJun 1, 2009

A glimpse at vision: First impressions count

Researchers at Children's Hospital Boston demonstrate that the brain can recognize objects quickly and consistently, even under different lighting conditions, size, and rotation. This finding could lead to advancements in teaching computers to see and improving brain-computer interfaces for individuals with visual impairment.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNeuron·DateApr 29, 2009

Plugging in molecular wires

Researchers developed a new process to capture light energy with nearly equal efficiency by connecting molecular wires to biological photosynthetic systems. This approach improves the transfer of electrons, achieving high quantum yields similar to natural photosynthesis.

SourceWiley·DateFeb 12, 2009

A very encouraging clinical trial for patients with OCD

A recent clinical trial has shown remarkable results for patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), with 7 out of 10 participants experiencing a substantial reduction in symptoms after deep cerebral stimulation. The treatment, which involves targeting the subthalamic nucleus in the brain, offers a promising alternative to tradi...

Coating improves electrical stimulation therapy used for Parkinson's, depression, chronic pain

A new coating made from carbon nanotubes improves the signals received and transmitted by electrodes, potentially advancing electrical nerve stimulation therapy. The coating bolsters both stimulation and receptive capabilities, showing promise in treating diseases such as epilepsy, depression, and chronic leg and back pain.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 16, 2008

Towards zero training for brain-computer interfacing

A novel data analysis method has been developed that extracts representative spatial filters for each individual subject, reducing the need for calibration before every session. This approach may pave the way for practical daily use of brain-computer interfacing technology for both patients and healthy users.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 12, 2008

Water refineries?

Researchers have discovered an efficient way to produce oxygen from water using a simple and inexpensive technique involving cobalt and phosphates. This breakthrough has significant implications for the large-scale deployment of solar energy, offering a cheap and easily manufactured storage mechanism.

Water refineries?

Researchers have discovered a way to extract pure oxygen from water using relatively small amounts of electricity and common chemicals. The breakthrough could lead to the development of solar-powered energy systems that can operate 24/7.

Electrode re-implantation helps some Parkinson's disease patients

A study of seven patients with Parkinson's disease found that re-implanting electrodes to correct placement can improve symptoms and reduce medication doses for those who had poor results after initial implantation. The procedure led to significant improvements in motor function scores and reduced levodopa medication doses.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Neurology·DateMay 12, 2008