Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Algorithm marks the spot: Making brain stimulation more reliable

A research team developed an algorithm that instantly assesses and adjusts brain stimulation placement using electroencephalography (EEG) feedback. The method can find the optimal stimulation parameters in just 1-2 minutes, potentially improving the efficacy of TMS treatment for brain disorders like chronic pain and depression.

SourceAalto University·JournalBrain Stimulation·DateFeb 15, 2022

Brain stimulation may facilitate rehabilitation of children with arthrogryposis

Researchers found that brain activity in children with arthrogryposis is different from healthy controls, with increased motor neuron activity and less precise movements. Non-invasive brain stimulation may be a possible rehabilitation strategy to help them start movements.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalFrontiers in Pediatrics·DateDec 23, 2021

Academic education can positively affect aging of the brain

A long-term study found that academic education can positively affect aging of the brain, with reduced degenerative processes and improved cognitive performance. Participants with an academic background showed a lower increase in signs of brain degeneration and faster processing speeds.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNeuroImage·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 22, 2021
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 study on how to slow down climate change

Researchers at the University of Bern used brain stimulation to demonstrate that mentalizing with future climate change victims encourages sustainable behavior. The study found that stimulating an area of the brain involved in perspective-taking led to more sustainable decisions, suggesting potential benefits for climate communication.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalCortex·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2021

Researchers from Tel Aviv University identified the biological mechanism causing nerve destruction in the Motor Neuron disease ALS

Researchers from Tel Aviv University have identified the biological mechanism causing nerve destruction in ALS, a fatal neurodegenerative disease. They found that TDP-43 protein accumulation in neuromuscular junctions inhibits local protein synthesis and mitochondrial activity, leading to degeneration and death of motor neurons.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalNature·DateDec 14, 2021

Researchers boost human mental function with brain stimulation

A study by University of Minnesota Medical School researchers shows that merging AI with electrical brain stimulation can enhance specific brain functions related to self-control and mental flexibility. The method improved cognitive control in patients undergoing brain surgery for epilepsy, reducing anxiety and depression symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateNov 1, 2021

Cleveland Clinic study of deep brain stimulation for post-stroke rehabilitation shows upper extremity functional improvement

A first-in-human study at Cleveland Clinic found that targeting the dentate nucleus with deep brain stimulation was safe and feasible for promoting post-stroke rehabilitation, enabling significant functional improvement in upper extremity hemiparesis. The study's adaptive design allowed for extended treatment duration if patients conti...

SourceCleveland Clinic·DateOct 20, 2021

Magnetic seizure therapy may be attractive alternative to electricity

Researchers investigated whether continued magnetic seizure therapy (MST) could effectively prevent the relapse of treatment-resistant depression. The study found that MST was associated with a lower relapse rate compared to earlier research assessing one-time, acute MST.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateOct 20, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Treating severe depression with on-demand brain stimulation

Researchers created a customized device that targets unique brain circuits associated with depression, providing immediate relief. The approach uses neural biomarkers to personalize therapy and has shown long-term efficacy in treatment-resistant patients.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Medicine·DateOct 4, 2021

New review finds non-invasive brain stimulation may reduce smoking

A systematic review found evidence that non-invasive brain stimulation can reduce smoking frequency in nicotine-dependent smokers. High-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) of the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex was associated with the greatest reduction in smoking frequency.

SourceSociety for the Study of Addiction·JournalAddiction·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 4, 2021

IU researchers pioneering noninvasive technique for neurological conditions

Researchers have developed a new, noninvasive brain stimulation technique using magnetoelectric nanoparticles to stimulate deep brain function. The method is more efficient than traditional methods without invasive procedures, showing promise for treating various neurological conditions.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalNeurotherapeutics·DateJul 1, 2021
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Why the brain enjoys music

A study using non-invasive brain stimulation found that exciting the brain's reward circuit before listening to music increased pleasure, while inhibiting it decreased it. The researchers also discovered that synchronized activity between auditory and reward regions was linked to the pleasure experienced.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateMar 29, 2021

Stimulating brain pathways shows origins of human language and memory

Researchers found strong links between auditory cortex information in humans and primates, suggesting an evolutionary process dating back at least 25 million years. The study provides new insights into the origins of human language and memory, highlighting a previously unseen ancestral brain highway system.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNeuron·DateJan 25, 2021

Rewiring stroke survivors brains could alleviate depression

Researchers at the University of South Australia have made a breakthrough in treating post-stroke depression using high-frequency brain stimulation. The study found that large doses of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) significantly improved low moods by increasing brain activity.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalJournal of Neurology·DateDec 11, 2020

Individualized brain stimulation therapy improves language performance in stroke survivors

A recent study found that individualized brain stimulation therapy improves language performance in stroke survivors with aphasia, targeting abnormal activity outside the damaged tissue. The therapy also shows promise for individuals with dementia, highlighting a personalized approach to treating this debilitating disorder.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 12, 2020

E-meditation: A new tool for an ancient technique

Researchers at MUSC have developed E-meditation, merging mindfulness with transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to calm the mind. The study, involving 31 participants, showed promising results, with attendees easily applying the device and minimal side effects.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·DateNov 19, 2019
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

White matter affects how people respond to brain stimulation therapy

Researchers found that patients with more connected white matter in targeted brain regions respond better to non-invasive electrical brain stimulation, suggesting a potential breakthrough in personalizing the therapy. The study also showed partial reversal of abnormalities in brain activity caused by traumatic brain injury.

SourceImperial College London·JournalBrain·DateAug 29, 2019

Take a break! Brain stimulation improves motor learning

Researchers found that brain stimulation during short breaks improves recall of learned motor sequences, even after several hours of practice has stopped. The study suggests that pauses between practice sessions solidify learning in the brain, and stimulation can enhance this process.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateAug 9, 2019

How to help patients recover after a stroke

Researchers propose two criteria for selecting optimal brain stimulation strategy, considering interactions between hemispheres and neuronal phenotype. This approach aims to improve effectiveness of non-invasive neuromodulation methods in stroke patients.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalFrontiers in Neurology·DateJun 26, 2019
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

How electrical stimulation reorganizes the brain

A new study using electrical stimulation to treat epilepsy found that brain activity can be predicted by monitoring changes in neural connectivity. Repeated sets of stimulation led to progressive changes in the brain's response to simulation, suggesting rapid reorganization of brain structure.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateJun 10, 2019

Brain stimulation speeds up visual learning and recovery

A combination of visual training and brain stimulation enhances learning in healthy adults, with twice as much improvement seen on a visual motion task. The study also found that this technique can lead to faster visual recovery and improved quality of life for patients who suffered a stroke or traumatic brain injury.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateMay 27, 2019
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

2019 International Brain Stimulation Award winner announced

The 2019 International Brain Stimulation Award recognizes Mark Hallett's pioneering work in developing transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and advancing the field of neuromodulation. His research has led to new treatments for neurological and psychiatric conditions, including depression and OCD.

SourceElsevier·DateNov 14, 2018

Would you zap your brain to improve your memory?

A study by Drexel University researchers explores the public's willingness to use brain stimulation devices, revealing a divide between personal and moral acceptance. Participants were more likely to support using brain stimulation on others to repair cognitive functions than enhance their own abilities.

SourceDrexel University·JournalBrain Stimulation·DateOct 22, 2018

Us vs. them: Understanding the neurobiology of stereotypes

Recent studies use non-invasive brain stimulation to investigate the neurobiology underlying implicit biases, revealing potential for behavioral interventions to reduce stereotyping. The technique has shown promise in modulating brain activity linked to social behaviors and attitudes.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateOct 15, 2018

Brain stimulation and connectivity in mice

Researchers used laser stimulation to increase oligodendrocyte proliferation and alter myelination in the mouse brain, highlighting potential mechanisms underlying brain stimulation and connectivity. These findings suggest a new avenue for exploring the neural basis of brain stimulation therapies.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 18, 2018
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

New computational tool could help optimize treatment of Alzheimer's disease

A novel computational approach has been developed to calculate optimal personalized brain stimulation treatment for Alzheimer's disease. The new framework incorporates patients' MRI scans and physiological brain signaling measurements to identify specific brain regions that would benefit from stimulation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMay 24, 2018

In brain stimulation therapy less might be more

Researchers have found that faster brain stimulation can lead to neuronal response failures, suggesting a 'less is more' approach for optimal therapy. This discovery challenges traditional intuition and highlights the importance of optimizing stimulation scheduling.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateMay 22, 2018
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Potential brain-machine interface for hand paralysis

A brain-machine interface combining brain stimulation and robotic control increases neural signal strength, potentially benefiting stroke patients with hand paralysis. This technique harnesses additional neurons to enhance motor function.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateJan 15, 2018
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

How marketing decoys influence decision-making

Neuroeconomic research investigates the neural underpinnings of the decoy effect, a marketing strategy that influences decision-making. The study reveals greater value-related activity in the left ventral striatum when the chosen option is superior to the decoy, indicating its impact on choice.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateNov 6, 2017

Brain stimulation can improve athletic performance

A study published in Brain Stimulation found that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can improve endurance performance by decreasing perceived effort. The research, conducted at the University of Kent, used a placebo-controlled study to test the effects of tDCS on cycling time to task failure.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalBrain Stimulation·DateOct 12, 2017
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Cognitive cross-training enhances learning, study finds

A comprehensive new study from University of Illinois researchers found that combining physical exercise and mild electric brain stimulation with computer-based cognitive training promotes skill learning significantly more than using cognitive training alone. The enhanced learning was skill-specific and did not translate to general int...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 25, 2017

Scientists improve people's creativity through electrical brain stimulation

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London used transcranial direct current stimulation to enhance creative problem-solving ability by suppressing a key brain area. Participants who received the intervention showed improved ability to think outside the box and solve complex problems.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 7, 2017

Research from Sandia shows brain stimulation during training boosts performance

Research from Sandia National Laboratories shows that brain stimulation combined with working memory training improves cognitive performance. Volunteers who received non-invasive brain stimulation while training showed significant improvements in verbal and spatial tasks, as well as problem-solving ability.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalNeuropsychologia·DateApr 24, 2017
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Brain stimulation influences honest behavior

Researchers found that brain stimulation increased honest behavior in people who experienced a moral conflict between material and moral interests. The stimulation mainly reduced cheating in those with strong moral inclinations, but did not affect decision-making process in those committed to maximizing earnings.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 10, 2017

Buzzing the brain with electricity can boost working memory

Researchers at Imperial College London found that applying a low voltage current can bring different areas of the brain in sync, enabling people to perform better on tasks involving working memory. The approach could one day be used to treat conditions such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, and epilepsy.

SourceImperial College London·DateMar 14, 2017

Stimulating the brain with electricity may reduce bulimia symptoms

A new study found that non-invasive brain stimulation using transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can significantly reduce bulimia symptoms, including urge to binge eat and concerns about weight. The treatment showed promise in improving cognitive control over compulsive features of the disorder.

SourceKing's College London·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 25, 2017
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

No peeking: Humans play computer game using only direct brain stimulation

University of Washington researchers demonstrate humans playing a simple two-dimensional computer game using only input from direct brain stimulation. The subjects navigated mazes with improved accuracy when receiving guidance via phosphene stimulation, suggesting potential for encoding novel information into the human brain.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalFrontiers in Robotics and AI·DateDec 5, 2016

Researchers examine how brain stimulation affects memory reactivation

Researchers found that specific changes in neural connections can retain information for short periods, allowing it to be retrieved through noninvasive brain stimulation techniques. The study used TMS to reactivate and strengthen latent memories, demonstrating a dynamic maintenance mechanism under cognitive control.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalScience·DateDec 1, 2016
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Brain stimulation to reduce food cravings? The data so far...

A meta-analysis found that non-invasive brain stimulation can reduce food cravings for high-calorie snack foods, with a moderate-sized effect, roughly half a point on a four-point self-rated scale. The results suggest that DLPFC stimulation reduces cravings, especially for carbohydrates, which are often implicated in obesity.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateJul 19, 2016

Neuroscientists warn against self-administered brain stimulation

A group of researchers warns against DIY use of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) due to its unpredictability and potential for unintended consequences. The study highlights the need for caution when applying tDCS outside a lab setting, as it can affect brain function in unforeseen ways.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateJul 8, 2016

Neuroscientists working to test brain training claims

Researchers are identifying who may benefit from cognitive training and new methods to result in long-lasting, positive effects on cognition. Cognitive neuroscientists are using tools like tDCS to boost working memory, with enhancements lasting over months.

SourceCognitive Neuroscience Society·DateApr 5, 2016

Learn how to fly a plane from expert-pilot brainwave patterns

Researchers from HRL Laboratories used transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to improve pilot learning in a realistic flight simulator. The study found that subjects who received tDCS showed improved piloting abilities, with enhanced skill retention and faster learning rates.

SourceHRL Laboratories·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateFeb 26, 2016
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Portable stimulator being tested on Parkinson's patients

Researchers at University of Gothenburg tested portable stimulator on 10 Swedish Parkinson's patients, showing improved balance and combined symptoms. The active noise stimulation improved the patients' balance and symptoms when unmedicated, and may lead to new treatment in the next five years.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalBrain Stimulation·DateJan 20, 2015

Study reveals new clues to help understand brain stimulation

Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center identified brain networks that can help guide site selection for brain stimulation therapies. The findings suggest that stimulating sites in the same connected brain network can improve treatment outcomes across multiple neurological and psychiatric disorders.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 29, 2014

Neuro researchers advocate for a shift in thinking for stroke rehabilitation

Researchers suggest targeting higher-motor areas instead of single targets to achieve personalized, not popular science, in stroke rehabilitation. By exploring substrates and defining successes and failures, they aim to create a shift in perspective that forces a broader understanding of brain stimulation's potential.

SourceSAGE·JournalThe Neuroscientist·DateJul 30, 2014

New stroke research combines brain stimulation, gait training

A new study aims to improve patients' ability to walk after a stroke by combining brain stimulation with gait training. The treatment group will receive transcranial direct current stimulation before gait training to help restore balance in cortical excitability.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateMar 13, 2014
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.