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Train your heart to protect your mind

A new study published in Neurobiology of Aging found that exercising improves cardiovascular strength, which may protect against cognitive impairment as we age. The researchers tested 31 young people and 54 older adults, finding that those with better aortic elasticity and aerobic fitness performed better on cognitive tests.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalNeurobiology of Aging·DateAug 24, 2014

MRI, on a molecular scale

Scientists at Harvard University have created a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system that can produce nano-scale images, potentially allowing researchers to peer into the atomic structure of individual molecules. The system uses a miniaturized magnet and quantum computing technology to achieve high spatial resolution.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateApr 18, 2014

2014 Louis-Jeantet Prize for Medicine

Elena Conti wins the prize for her work on understanding the mechanisms governing RNA quality, transport, and degradation, while Denis Le Bihan receives it for his innovative brain imaging technique that has revolutionized stroke diagnosis and treatment. Both researchers will use the prize money to further their research.

SourceEMBO·DateJan 21, 2014

Brain regions 'tune' activity to enable attention

Researchers discovered that brain regions synchronize their activity to make it possible for people to pay attention, with the process likened to tuning multiple walkie-talkies to the same frequency. The findings have implications for understanding attention deficits in brain injuries or strokes.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 2014

Leaner Fourier transforms

MIT researchers have developed an algorithm that can perform Fourier transforms using close to the theoretical minimum number of samples. This could significantly reduce the time it takes for medical devices like MRI machines to scan patients, or allow astronomers to take more detailed images of the universe.

NIST calibration tools to encourage use of novel medical imaging technique

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has developed prototype calibration tools for ultra-low field magnetic resonance imaging (ULF-MRI), a technique that provides new contrast mechanisms and practical advantages. The ULF-MRI phantoms are designed to allow direct comparison of performance between ULF-MRI and clinica...

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalMagnetic Resonance in Medicine·DateDec 6, 2013

2 studies on the use of breast MRI

Two studies on breast MRI usage found a significant increase in its use for diagnostic evaluations and screenings, particularly among high-risk women. The studies also revealed disparities in the use of breast MRI, with some groups receiving more frequent screening than others.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateNov 18, 2013

What makes creativity tick?

Researchers at Michigan State University developed a simple 'noun-verb' test to measure creativity, finding that those who gave creative answers in the test were indeed the most creative as measured by other methods. The test could help create better educational and training programs to foster creativity.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalBehavior Research Methods·DateOct 30, 2013

Deciding when 'not' to maximize profits

A new study reveals that corporate bosses selectively intervene in subsidiary decisions to prevent competitive spillovers and maintain a 'go along to get along' cooperative attitude. This approach restricts growth in certain businesses within the corporation, ultimately benefiting rivals at the expense of consumers.

SourceBoston College·JournalAdministrative Science Quarterly·DateOct 23, 2013