Articles tagged with Behavioral Neuroscience
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Researchers used CRISPR-Cas9 technique to edit genes in zebrafish larvae, altering individual behavioral responses and group behavior. The study suggests two simple visuomotor reflexes explain the collective behavior of zebrafish.
Researchers found that protein lactylation occurs in brain neurons and is positively correlated with lactate levels. The study showed that neural excitation and social stress enhance lysine lactylation of histone H1 proteins, leading to increased anxiety-like behaviors.
Researchers from The Stuber Lab discovered that certain neurons in the brain light up in obese mice, preventing signals that indicate satiety. The study found that these neurons communicate with regions involved in depression and motivation, suggesting a link between eating disorders and addiction.
Researchers at the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre have discovered a new brain circuit that enables mice to override their instincts based on previous experience. The ventral lateral geniculate nucleus (vLGN) inhibits threat reactions when animals feel safe, but activates them when danger is perceived.
Researchers used neuroscientific theories to develop a decision-making model that predicts pedestrian road-crossing decisions. The model shows that pedestrians add up sensory data before crossing, helping autonomous vehicles communicate more effectively with pedestrians.
Researchers discovered structural differences in brain regions responsible for decision-making and empathy in adolescents with conduct disorder compared to their unaffected siblings. These findings suggest that small changes in brain function may contribute to the development of antisocial behavior in some siblings.
Researchers found associations between driving convictions, accidents, and behaviors like junk food consumption and alcohol. Genetic variation in serotonin metabolism was also linked to risky driving.
A new report published in De Gruyter exposes the neural impact of marine parks and other impoverished environments on cetaceans. The authors conclude that these environments cause significant neurobiological harm, leading to abnormal behavior such as repetitive swimming patterns and social isolation.
A study published in Communications Biology reveals that chronic hyperglycemia in diabetes impairs working memory performance by altering the connection between key brain regions. Researchers found that areas critical for forming and retrieving memories were over-connected, leading to errors in remembering correct information.
Researchers found that methamphetamine, cocaine, and nicotine withdrawal share similar features in mouse brains, including reduced modularity and increased functional connectivity. This reorganization may contribute to the addictive nature of psychostimulants.
By reading electrical signals in a bird's brain, researchers can predict specific syllables and when they will be sung. This breakthrough technology has the potential to develop vocal prostheses for humans with speech disorders.
Research from Dartmouth College reveals that making and breaking eye contact during conversations can create a dynamic balance between shared attention and individual expression. Pupillary synchrony decreases after eye contact breaks, allowing for creativity and new thoughts, while also signaling shared understanding.
A new study published in the Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience found that differences in cognitive control are not absolute, but rather a matter of degree. The research team, led by Todd Braver, used functional MRI to examine brain activity and behavior across four tasks in three conditions. Consistency was found in brain regions and b...
Researchers developed a computer model revealing how single brain cells in nematode worms sense and process environmental information to drive decision-making. The study found that sensory cells use salt cues as 'navigation beacons' to direct foraging behavior, controlling the animal's search strategy.
Researchers found that injecting SK/CCK-type neuropeptides into starfish retracts their stomachs and makes them less inclined to eat, even with food in front of them. This discovery sheds light on the evolutionary conservation of feeding regulation mechanisms across animals.
A new study found that a next-generation brain implant for treating refractory epilepsy does not induce changes to patients' personalities or self-perceptions. The study follows 12 patients and their family caregivers over two years, providing reassurance for patients implanted with this device.
Researchers found that genetically similar mice prefer each other's company, while PDE11 mutant mice show no preference for familiar friends. This discovery may indicate a biological basis for human social choices and improve healthcare outcomes.
A new unsupervised machine learning algorithm, B-SOiD, developed by Carnegie Mellon University researchers makes studying animal behavior more accurate and efficient. The algorithm identifies patterns in an animal's body position to discover behaviors, removing human error and bias.
A new study has identified the periaqueductal gray as a critical hub for changes in spiritual identification, surprising researchers who previously thought it was associated with higher brain regions. The discovery could have significant implications for understanding spirituality's role in managing physical and emotional pain.
Researchers from Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh conducted a study on three Rhesus monkeys, finding that their performance declined by up to 25% when offered a jackpot reward. The team also discovered a link between sensory motor processing and emotional processing in the monkeys' brains.
Research by UC San Diego professor Uma R. Karmarkar found that display items from the same category as the target product enhance purchase chances, while mismatched products decrease them. This study used eye-tracking technology to examine how different types of displays influenced visual attention.
Chronic light exposure disrupts circadian rhythms in rats, leading to memory deficits and amyloid β accumulation similar to Alzheimer's disease. Fluoxetine treatment prevents these effects, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy.
A study on red junglefowl chicks found that early experiences can affect impulsivity, contradicting initial expectations. The researchers also discovered a link between gene expression and impulsivity, suggesting that genetic factors contribute to individual differences in impulsive behavior.
New research published in eNeuro found that premature babies' brain connections at birth can predict their future emotional and social development. The study discovered a link between the strength of the uncinate fasciculus, a white matter tract involved in emotional regulation, and emotion moderation skills in preschoolers.
The University of North Florida will lead a six-site study using computerized cognitive training to improve cognition and potentially prevent dementia. The five-year study aims to recruit 1001 participants from the Jacksonville area, with a focus on African American and Hispanic populations.
EPFL scientists developed LiftPose3D, a deep learning-based method that can reconstruct 3D animal poses using only 2D poses from one camera. This tool allows for the study of brain mechanisms controlling body movements in freely moving animals.
Researchers manipulated dopamine receptors to understand benefit- and cost-based motivation, revealing complementary roles for D1R and D2R. The study sheds light on the neurobiological mechanism of decision-making and has implications for psychiatric disorders.
A Duke University study found that combining risk data with an imagination exercise helps participants make more realistic decisions about their own risky behaviors. The intervention, now integrated into a publicly accessible data dashboard, aims to improve public health decisions during the pandemic.
Neuroscientists used artificial intelligence to disentangle the relationship between perception and memory in the human brain. A novel computational framework predicts neural responses in the primate visual system, resolving decades-long debates over the role of the medial temporal lobe (MTL) in perception.
Researchers found that longer breaks between learning events lead to more stable activation patterns in the brain, allowing for better memory retention. This study provides insights into the neuronal processes behind the spacing effect, suggesting that taking breaks can slow down learning but improve long-term memory.
Researchers use X-rays to activate opsins in neurons, allowing for remote control of neural function and behavior. Scintillators emit visible light in response to X-ray irradiation, enabling the technique without tissue damage.
The locus coeruleus region plays a crucial role in regulating learning from reward and punishment, optimizing behavior and mental health. The region integrates sensory inputs and internal cognitive states to precisely exert its influence.
A team of scientists has successfully developed an eyeblink test for pigs, a model species for studying nutritional neuroscience in human infants. The test assesses cognitive processing in the cerebellum and demonstrates associative learning in pigs.
Studies have shown that oxytocin neurons connecting the hypothalamus to a reward area fire when vole fathers care for their offspring, increasing paternal behavior. This neural pathway is also involved in maternal behavior, highlighting potential connections between fatherly and motherly care.
The event highlights the experiences of four past Rappaport Fellowship awardees, showcasing how their backgrounds in clinical research, brain studies, and behavioral/molecular endpoints impacted their careers. This webinar aims to revolutionize the study and treatment of mental illness by integrating psychiatry and neuroscience.
Researchers found that eating disorder behaviors like binge-eating alter brain reward response and food intake control circuitry, reinforcing these behaviors. The study suggests that behavioral traits contribute to eating disorder maintenance and progression by modulating internal reward responses.
Researchers aim to understand neural pathways in Hydra vulgaris, a tiny animal with simple circuits, to create designer neural circuits. The goal is to program behaviors from scratch and develop self-healing 'biorobots' for various applications.
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine congratulates Dr. Omonigho Bubu and three others on their 2021 Trainee Investigator Awards for outstanding research presentations at SLEEP 2021. Their studies focus on sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea, and its association with Alzheimer's disease.
A new study reveals that both tame and aggressive silver fox breeds have larger brains and more grey matter than their control group counterparts. This finding contradicts previous studies on other domesticated animals, which showed smaller brain sizes with less grey matter.
Research finds that foxes selectively bred for tameness and aggressiveness display similar brain changes to regions in the prefrontal cortex. This contradicts previous studies which found shrinking brain sizes in domesticated species.
A study found that frequent cell phone use while driving is associated with other risky driving practices in young adults, including impulsivity and sensation seeking. The study suggests that targeting all risky behaviors rather than just cell phone use may be more effective in preventing crashes.
A study by West Virginia University found that most animal studies disregard the rodents' natural circadian rhythms, leading to issues with reproducibility and validity. Researchers recommend using techniques such as housing animals in darkness during the day to simulate nighttime conditions.
New research reveals that stressed male mice can pass on their stress behaviors to their offspring through changes in the sperm's genetic code. This finding indicates that sperm transmits short-term environmental information to offspring, influencing their stress responses.
Researchers discovered that mockingbirds use specific compositional strategies to create complex melodies, including changing timbre, pitch, stretching transitions, and squeezing them. These techniques are also used by human composers across various musical styles.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University found that sick bats isolate themselves to prevent the spread of contagious diseases. By staying away from their colonies, bats conserve energy and reduce the likelihood of pathogens being transmitted to humans, suggesting a potential natural defense mechanism.
A new study suggests that an emotional regulation technique called cognitive reappraisal can help disrupt compulsive cocaine addiction. The technique, which involves reinterpreting the meaning of drug-related cues, was found to reduce attention-bias in individuals with cocaine use disorder.
Researchers used a 'robot microscope' to track chemical signals in worms, revealing the role of interneurons in food-seeking behavior. The study found that glutamate signaling between sensory and interneurons plays a key role in experience-dependent plasticity.
Researchers found that fly brains use prediction to guide behavior, making them more efficient in evading predators. The visual system uses an information bottleneck to filter out unnecessary sensory data and preserve necessary information for predictions.
Researchers at Cornell University have developed a novel technique to study the neuroscience of motor control in mice by focusing on their tongue movements. This approach reveals similarities between mouse tongue movement and primate reach tasks, allowing for new insights into motor control and potential applications in understanding n...
Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine counted brain cells in fruit flies and three mosquito species, revealing an average of 200,000 neurons. This estimate likely represents a baseline number of brain cells required for complex behaviors. The study provides insight into the intricate processing capabilities of these insects.
A subpopulation of neurons in the zona incerta drives investigatory and novelty-seeking behavior in mice. The discovery sheds light on a previously unknown brain circuit underlying innate curiosity.
Scientists from the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience have discovered a new brain circuit underlying curiosity and novelty seeking behavior. By studying mice with freedom to choose, they found that specific neurons were more active during deep investigation compared to shallow investigation.
Researchers found that modulation of map-like representations in the brain's hippocampal formation can predict contextual memory retrieval in an ambiguous environment. The study used virtual reality navigation tasks to test human participants' ability to recall object positions in different contexts.
Mehrnaz Afkhami, a University of Oklahoma doctoral biology student, received the graduate student poster award for her research on female behavioral response to male novel traits in fruit flies. Her study focuses on genetics and neurobiology aspects of this behavior.
A new Heidelberg-based computerized approach recognizes motor impairments and provides information about underlying diseases through artificial intelligence. The uBAM algorithm uses machine learning to analyze movement patterns, highlighting pathological deviations and aiding in diagnosis and treatment.
Researchers identified specific neural circuits in the basal ganglia linked to motor and non-motor Parkinson's symptoms. The findings provide a novel framework for understanding disease progression and may lead to more precise therapeutic strategies.
A new study found that increased dopamine in the brain's striatum triggers auditory hallucination-like experiences in mice, shedding light on a possible causal role for dopamine-dependent neurological circuits in psychosis. This breakthrough could inform novel targeted treatments for schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.
A new study by William Bazley found that using the color red to represent financial data affects individuals' risk preferences, expectations of future stock returns, and trading decisions. The effects are not present in people who are colorblind, and they're muted in China, where red represents prosperity.
MIT neuroscientists have identified a brain circuit that stops mice from mating with others showing signs of illness. The circuit, controlled by the amygdala's COApm region, triggers a warning signal to stay away from sick animals.
Research by Matthew Panichello and Timothy Buschman found that attention and working memory share the same neural mechanisms, with neurons in the prefrontal cortex controlling both. This allows for dynamic transformation of memories to guide behavior, like rotating a paper to read text.