A $40,000 grant funded by The Consortium of MS Centers will support a 1-year pilot study investigating an emotional processing training program for individuals with multiple sclerosis. The study aims to improve emotional processing abilities and overall quality of life.
A new study found that people with higher levels of infection in their blood, including cold sores, were more likely to have cognitive problems than those with lower levels. The research suggested a link between infection and increased risk of low scores on cognition tests.
Dr. Nancy Chiaravalloti, a leading expert in cognitive rehabilitation research, has been awarded a $43,494 grant to study the efficacy of a new treatment for memory loss in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. The one-year pilot project aims to improve learning and memory skills of individuals with MS.
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.
Many Ph.D. students are seeking jobs outside academia due to a tight job market and scarce tenure-track positions. The "Beyond Academia" conference aims to provide a platform for exploration and career development.
A study by Columbia University Medical Center researchers found that depression and cognitive status are independently associated with a more rapid decline in everyday living abilities. The findings suggest providing mental health treatment may slow the loss of independence.
Research found that playing action games improved capacity to track multiple objects, while hidden object and match three objects players showed improvement in visual search tasks. Video games improve specific skills, not overall mental abilities.
The ACEmobile app uses the latest version of the Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination (ACE-III) to provide a sensitive, reliable, and secure dementia assessment tool. The app will be made available free of charge via iTunes and Google Play, allowing clinicians around the world to access accurate diagnoses and aid in earlier treatment.
Research shows energy drinks containing caffeine can enhance physical performance in cyclists, with average cycling times improving by 3% after consumption. However, the impact on cognitive function is unclear and likely unrelated to the energy drink.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A study published in Neurology found that people with multiple sclerosis (MS) who experience memory and attention issues have significant damage to brain areas critical for cognitive functions. This discovery has important implications for the diagnosis and treatment of MS-related cognitive problems.
Researchers at BUSM found that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can relieve pain for people with painful diabetic neuropathies. CBT, a psychological treatment approach, was compared to treatment as usual in a study of veterans with type II diabetes.
A tablet-based experiment found that subconcussive head impacts in soccer can cause changes in performance on certain cognitive tasks, particularly those requiring voluntary responses. High school female soccer players were significantly slower than non-players when pointing away from a target.
A study by Rutgers University behavioral neuroscientist Tracey Shors found that prolonged chemotherapy decreases the development of new brain cells, disrupting ongoing brain rhythms necessary for learning. This can lead to cognitive problems such as short-term memory loss and disordered thinking in cancer patients.
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.
Researchers found that participants are conscious of substituting harder questions with easier ones, but still uncertain about their answers. This suggests they are not 'happy fools' who blindly answer incorrectly.
MIND Institute researchers will examine whether children and youth with fragile X syndrome can improve their working memory, cognition, and behavior using an online computer-based cognitive training program. The four-year study aims to determine the efficacy of this intervention in improving working memory skills and potentially behavior.
Researchers tracked observer eye movements during video clips of the 'Cups and Balls' trick to illuminate how our brains can be misdirected. This study advances our understanding of human cognition and perception, shedding light on how magicians manipulate attention.
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
A new study found that consumers systematically underestimate the selling price of others' items and overestimate their own willingness to pay. This bias can lead to reduced satisfaction in transactions and economic losses for both buyers and sellers.
A study published in The Journal of Neuroscience found that lifelong bilinguals perform a cognitive flexibility task faster and with less energy than monolingual peers. This suggests that lifelong bilingualism may exert its strongest benefits on the functioning of frontal brain regions in aging.
A new study found that cognitive reappraisal can decrease negative intergroup emotions and increase support for conciliatory policies in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Reappraisal training reduced anger towards Palestinians, increased support for peaceful solutions, and decreased support for aggressive policies.
Cognitive enhancement medications, used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), may not be suitable for healthy individuals due to limited evidence and potential risks. Physicians in Canada are advised to prioritize their professional integrity and limit healthcare resources by refusing prescription requests.
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.
A new study reveals that mini-strokes result in prolonged periods of brain damage and cognitive impairment, with neurons being lost due to delayed processes. The research suggests a longer therapeutic window to protect cells after these tiny strokes, potentially extending to days and weeks after the initial injury.
Researchers aim to build cognitive reserve in MS patients by engaging in intellectually stimulating activities, such as reading and puzzle-solving, using iPads. The one-year pilot project will examine improvements in cognitive performance and correlations with changes in neural networks.
Research by Pia Aravena and colleagues found that hearing action-related verbs can induce unconscious physical responses, such as increased grip force. The study used sentence structures with positive or negative verbs to explore language-induced motor activity in the human brain.
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.
A new study using Pokemon experts and non-experts found that a more generalized system processes faces and expert objects, supporting the expertise hypothesis. Brain signals in the fusiform face area were stronger in experts when looking at Pokemon characters.
A study by Temple University found a significant association between decreased kidney function and reduced global cognitive ability, abstract reasoning, and verbal memory. Researchers tracked 590 individuals over five years to examine the longitudinal impact of renal decline on cognitive functioning.
Spatial cognition researchers will form a virtual institute to collaborate and advance the field of spatial intelligence and learning. The Thematic Network in Spatial Cognition aims to establish spatial cognition as a scientific discipline, with relevance to education in STEM fields and professional areas.
Researchers discovered that desynchronised brain activity during sleep could trigger some of schizophrenia's symptoms. The study suggests poor sleep might be a cause, not just a consequence of the disorder's effects.
Researchers at UCSB have made a significant discovery in the study of split-brain research, uncovering dynamic changes in brain coordination patterns between left and right hemispheres. The findings show that healthy test subjects respond less accurately when information is shown only to the right brain.
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.
A new model of mindfulness proposes a framework of complex brain mechanisms, including self-awareness, regulation, and transcendence. The S-ART framework explains the neurobiological mechanisms underlying mindfulness practice, reducing biases and negative thoughts while enhancing positive relationships with oneself and others.
Researchers will administer prism adaptation therapy for 2 weeks and measure functional changes as well as home and community outcomes at 3 and 6 months later. The goal is to establish clinical guidelines, increase detection and management of spatial neglect, and optimize independence and engagement in the home and community for stroke...
A breakthrough study found that brainwave training enhances a cognitive-control network in just 30 minutes, leading to reduced mind-wandering. The study used neurofeedback to train participants' brains and showed significant changes in brain activity and behavior.
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.
A study published in Neurology found that people over 70 who exercised regularly showed less brain shrinkage and had more grey matter than those who did little exercise. Regular physical activity was also linked to fewer damaged areas in the white matter of the brain.
A Mayo Clinic study found that people aged 70 and older who consume high amounts of carbohydrates have nearly four times the risk of developing mild cognitive impairment. In contrast, those with diets high in fat and protein relative to carbohydrates are less likely to experience cognitive decline.
Researchers found that humans tend to alter language to make it clearer and more concise, striking a balance between effort and clarity. This bias towards efficiency acts as a filter, introducing common patterns across languages.
A recent study published in Frontiers found that veterans who smoke are more likely to experience cognitive impairment and are at a higher risk of relapse. The research controlled for genetic variables and showed that smokers performed worse on measures of learning, memory, and processing speed compared to non-smokers.
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
A new study demonstrates that children's ability to delay gratification is influenced as much by their environment as by innate ability. Children who experienced reliable interactions waited on average four times longer than those in similar but unreliable situations.
The study suggests that languages develop word order rules to minimize miscommunication across a noisy channel. Researchers found a correlation between word order and case markings, with strongly case-marked languages like Japanese defaulting to SOV word order.
Abhijit Das, a postdoctoral fellow at Kessler Foundation, was named to the NIDRR-sponsored ARRT Young Investigators Panel for his research on cognitive fatigue in multiple sclerosis. His work aims to convert knowledge about brain networks underlying fatigue into treatment protocols using non-invasive brain stimulation.
A team of researchers has discovered a genetic defect in the RMND1 gene linked to severe neurodegenerative disorders. The study reveals mutations in this gene can lead to early death in infants and has implications for understanding later-onset neurological diseases.
Teachers can utilize specific behaviors to increase students' emotional and cognitive interest, leading to greater engagement. Research found that immediacy behaviors stimulate emotional arousal, while clarity behaviors enhance structural understanding of course content.
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.
Researchers Todd Gureckis and Douglas Markant examine the benefits of self-directed learning from a cognitive and computational perspective. They argue that this approach optimizes educational experiences by focusing on useful information and exposing learners to new sources. By understanding these processes, researchers can develop as...
A study defines boredom as an aversive state caused by difficulty paying attention to internal or external information required for engaging satisfying activities. The researchers hope to develop new strategies to ease the problems of boredom and address potential dangers associated with cognitive errors.
A Cornell University study challenges the long-held hierarchical structure of sentence construction, proposing instead that language uses simpler sequential structures. This concept has implications for understanding human communication abilities and their relationship to other species.
Researchers Dr. Helen Genova and Starla Weaver received three-year grants to investigate cognitive function after traumatic brain injury. They aim to develop strategies for rehabilitation using neuroimaging techniques like diffusion tensor imaging.
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.
A new report highlights the cognitive factors that make misinformation sticky, including the need for cognitive effort to reject information. Effective strategies for debunking or counteracting erroneous beliefs include providing alternative narratives, focusing on facts rather than myths, and considering audience beliefs. Research has...
A study published in Journal of Consumer Research found that people vary widely on the level of detail required for understanding a product. Explanation fiends require more details to feel informed, while explanation foes feel confident with superficial explanations. Understanding what consumers want is crucial for marketers.
Jelana Stojanovic, a Kessler Foundation postdoctoral fellow, received the Research Award for Best Poster at the 2012 MS Centers Meeting. Her study used fNIRS to evaluate working memory performance in people with and without multiple sclerosis.
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.
Cognitive training significantly reduces postoperative complications in coronary bypass surgery patients, improving attention and memory. Benefits are maintained over time, suggesting brain plasticity in older adults.
Dr. Chiaravalloti discusses the potential of functional MRI and behavioral therapies to target cognitive deficits in MS patients. Research suggests that these approaches may be effective in improving learning, memory, and processing speed in individuals with MS.
A new study published in Neurology says Gingko biloba does not improve cognitive performance in people with multiple sclerosis. The research followed up on earlier findings that suggested there may be some benefit, but found no cognitive benefits to using the supplement.
Researchers have identified a neural signature of affiliative experience in the human brain, using functional MRI to differentiate between positive and negative emotional experiences. The study's findings have implications for understanding emotions and neuropsychiatric conditions such as post-partum depression, psychopathy, and attach...
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.
Intensive LSAT training strengthens brain connections involved in thinking and reasoning, potentially improving IQ scores. Brain imaging reveals increased connectivity between frontal lobes, and between frontal and parietal lobes.
A study published in Neurology found that obesity and metabolic abnormalities are associated with a faster decline in cognitive skills. People who were obese and had high blood pressure, low HDL cholesterol, or other risk factors experienced a significant decline in their cognitive test scores over a 10-year period.
A team of researchers at UC San Diego developed a multi-dimensional set of brain measurements that can accurately assess a child's age. The study, published in Current Biology, shows that the 'developmental clock' within the brain captures age differences well regardless of individual variability.
Carnegie Mellon's Marcel Just has made significant advancements in understanding how the brain processes information. He will give a keynote lecture on 'Changing Brains for Changing Times' at the Society for Text and Discourse's annual meeting, discussing how cultural and educational influences shape brain capabilities.
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.
Researchers at MIT CSAIL discovered brain organizes objects based on size, with distinct regions for big and small objects. This finding has major implications for fields like robotics and could lead to better understanding of brain organization and mapping information.
A Baylor University study reveals that juvenile rats build up a physical tolerance to alcohol but not cognitive impairment. This finding has significant implications for understanding adolescent behavior and the development of alcoholism.
A new systematic review found no benefit from omega-3 supplements on cognitive health in older adults, but suggests longer-term effects are worth investigating. The researchers recommend eating fish as part of a healthy diet to support brain health.
Lily Jan and Yuh Nung Jan receive the award for their fundamental contributions to understanding potassium channel function, neuronal morphologies, and developmental neuroscience. They have mentored numerous students and postdoctoral fellows, inspiring new generations of researchers.
A new study by Stanford and USC researchers found no significant difference in overall mental abilities between postmenopausal women who took soy supplements and those who didn't. The 2.5-year study also showed a potential gain in visual memory for women taking the supplements, but emphasized the need for further research.
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.
Researchers found that babies seek out situations with just the right amount of surprise or complexity to capture their attention. The findings suggest that babies are active information seekers who can predict what happens next based on previous observations.