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An entire brain-machine interface on a chip: Converting brain activity to text on one extremely small integrated system

Researchers at EPFL developed a next-generation miniaturized brain-machine interface capable of direct brain-to-text communication on tiny silicon chips. The MiBMI system can decode neural signals generated when a person imagines writing letters or words with high accuracy and low power consumption.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalIEEE Journal of Solid-State Circuits·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 26, 2024

People seen as wise share these characteristics, according to a new study

A new study by University of Waterloo researchers found that people perceive wisdom as being composed of two dimensions: reflective orientation and socio-emotional awareness. Reflective orientation includes traits like logical thinking, emotion control, and knowledge application, while socio-emotional awareness involves considering oth...

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 23, 2024
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Cognitive behavioral therapy app improves anxiety in young adults

A self-guided CBT app, Maya, significantly reduced anxiety in young adults, with improvement levels similar to anxiety medication studies. The study found that the app's interactive platform and real-time feedback helped users learn new skills and coping mechanisms.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 20, 2024

Groundbreaking study shows promise for early detection and intervention in psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia

Researchers have discovered a link between cognitive impairments and brain network organization in individuals at risk of developing psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. This finding suggests an opportunity for early diagnosis and intervention, potentially through non-invasive neuromodulation.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 20, 2024

MIT study explains why laws are written in an incomprehensible style

Researchers found that non-lawyers use complex legalese when writing laws, and it signals a sense of authority. The 'magic spell hypothesis' suggests that this style is used to convey power and legitimacy, making documents more difficult to understand.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 19, 2024

Detroit research team to investigate fear of falling in MS patients

A Wayne State University research team led by Taylor Takla is studying the neural, motor, cognitive and psychological factors underlying fear of falling in multiple sclerosis patients. The goal is to break the cycle of falls, reduced physical activity and social isolation, ultimately improving quality of life for MS patients.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateAug 9, 2024
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.

Walking the walk, WVU develops motion compatible brain scanner

Researchers at WVU created a motion-compatible brain scanner that allows patients to move around during imaging. The Ambulatory Motion-enabling PET (AMPET) scanner can help study human behaviors, balance, and emotions, and may be used to monitor brain activity for PTSD treatment and mindfulness meditation.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalCommunications Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 7, 2024

If you yawn, I yawn too: new mechanisms behind imitative behavior revealed

Researchers have uncovered new insights into how the brain regulates imitative behavior, a phenomenon that facilitates interaction and social cohesion. The study used advanced brain stimulation technique to pinpoint the causal role of different circuits in facilitating or inhibiting automatic imitation.

SourceUniversità di Bologna·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 7, 2024

Memory loss in aging and dementia: Dendritic spine head diameter predicts memory in old age

A study published in Science Advances found that the quality of synapses, specifically dendritic spine head diameter, predicts episodic memory performance in older adults. Researchers suggest targeting pathways that maintain spine head diameter or synaptic strength may yield greater therapeutic benefits for Alzheimer's disease prevention.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 7, 2024

‘Baby talk:’ Decoding how children’s vocal and cognitive cues sway adults

Researchers found that adults prioritize cognitive cues over vocal signals when evaluating a child's intelligence or negative emotions, while vocal cues dominate for assessing happiness or helplessness. This study provides insights into the complex dynamics of caregiver-child interactions and their evolutionary roots.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalEvolution and Human Behavior·TypeObservational study·DateAug 6, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Exploring the impact of meta-learning on post-stroke motor recovery

Researchers developed a motor meta-learning task to assess stroke patients' ability to recognize their learning capabilities and plan practice. The study found a significant correlation between meta-learning ability and improvement index, suggesting that enhanced individual meta-learning ability can improve rehabilitation efficacy.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalEuropean Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine·DateAug 5, 2024

Pandemic exacerbated depression in older adults with diabetes

A recent study found that almost 50% of older adults with diabetes experienced depression during the pandemic, with loneliness and chronic pain being major risk factors. The study also identified unexpected findings, including a higher risk of depression among those with higher income prior to the pandemic.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalArchives of Gerontology and Geriatrics Plus·TypeSurvey·DateJul 31, 2024

This protein does “The Twist”

Researchers have identified the critical step in NMDAR's routine where it rotates into an open formation, enabling electrical signals crucial for cognitive functions. This discovery may pave the way for drug compounds that can correct faulty NMDARs, potentially treating conditions like Alzheimer's and depression.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature·DateJul 31, 2024

AI boosts the power of EEGs, enabling neurologists to quickly, precisely pinpoint signs of dementia

Researchers at Mayo Clinic used AI to analyze electroencephalogram (EEG) tests, identifying subtle brain wave patterns characteristic of cognitive problems like Alzheimer's disease. This technology has the potential to provide healthcare professionals with a more accessible tool for early diagnosis in communities without easy access to...

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalBrain Communications·DateJul 31, 2024

Trailblazing research shows the spatial pattern of pathological changes in the brain can help identify dementia vulnerability decades before it occurs

A novel study finds that monitoring cortical microstructural change in the brain using diffusion weighted MRI scans may help identify individuals at risk for cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease. Tracking these changes over time could provide precious time for disease-modifying treatments.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging·TypeImaging analysis·DateJul 30, 2024
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.

Exploring consciousness with eureka moments

Researchers propose a new approach to studying conscious cognitive information processing, focusing on eureka moments and learning curves. By analyzing performance over time, scientists can identify the timing of conscious processes and observe brain activity using imaging or electrophysiological methods.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalFrontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience·DateJul 25, 2024

Mild COVID-19 can cause long-term cognitive losses

A recent study published in BMC Psychology found that mild COVID-19 patients experienced significant cognitive impairment, with 11.7% showing memory loss and attention deficits. The study suggests that neuroinflammation due to SARS-CoV-2 infection may be a contributing factor to these long-term effects.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBMC Psychology·DateJul 24, 2024
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.

Researchers create new template of the human brain

Researchers created a new cortical surface template called 'OpenNeuro Average' that provides greater accuracy and efficiency in analyzing neuroimaging data. The template is based on the geometric shape of the brain and can be used for studies on cognition, clinical neuroscience, autism, and neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalNature Methods·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 16, 2024

Ultrasound technology can be used to boost mindfulness, study finds

Researchers used low-intensity ultrasound to target and alter the default mode network of the brain, reducing connectivity and enhancing mindfulness. The technique, called transcranial-focused ultrasound (TFUS), can induce meaningful effects with just five minutes of stimulation.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 11, 2024
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.

Metformin and other antidiabetic drugs can help reduce the risk of dementia in patients with type 2 diabetes

Researchers analyzed over 1.5 million patient records to find that metformin and SGLT-2 inhibitors lowered dementia and Alzheimer's disease risks compared to other antidiabetic drugs. The study suggests individualized treatment approaches considering patient-specific factors for optimal diabetes management.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 11, 2024

New "disembodied disconnect hypothesis" offers fresh perspective on digital technology's impact on social interaction

A new study introduces a novel hypothesis that digital technologies affect human sociality and mental health, particularly among youth. The Disembodied Disconnect Hypothesis suggests cultivating rich personal relationships in face-to-face communities to counterbalance disembodied digital interactions.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalCyberpsychology Behavior and Social Networking·TypeSystematic review·DateJul 10, 2024

University of Cincinnati, Swing Therapeutics study: Mobile app therapy leads to significant improvement in fibromyalgia management

A new study published in The Lancet found that a self-guided smartphone-based behavioral therapy led to significant improvements for patients with fibromyalgia. Stanza, a smartphone app delivering acceptance and commitment therapy, showed improved symptoms including pain intensity, fatigue, and depression.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 8, 2024
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.

Poor health, stress in 20s takes toll in 40s with lower cognition

Researchers discovered that young adults with higher levels of inflammation were more likely to experience reduced cognitive function in midlife. Higher inflammation was associated with lower performance on skills testing and differences in executive functioning.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNeurology·DateJul 3, 2024

Discovery of cellular mechanism to maintain brain’s energy could benefit late-life brain health

Researchers have identified a cellular mechanism that detects when the brain needs an extra energy boost to support its activity. This discovery could lead to new therapies for maintaining brain health and longevity by targeting impaired brain energy metabolism, a process accelerated in ageing and neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2024

Groundbreaking approach to sleep study expands potential of sleep medicine

Researchers at the University of Houston have introduced a new method for sleep stage classification that can be performed at home and uses only two leads. This approach achieves expert-level agreement with the gold-standard polysomnography without expensive equipment, paving the way for more accessible and cost-effective sleep studies.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalComputers in Biology and Medicine·DateJul 2, 2024
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.

What you eat at age 40 could influence your quality of life at 70

A Harvard study found that people who followed a healthy diet from their 40s onward were 43-84% more likely to be well-functioning physically and mentally at age 70 compared with those who did not. Adhering to diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats was associated with greater odds of healthy aging.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJul 2, 2024

Eating more soy foods could improve thinking and attention in kids

A recent study found that consuming isoflavones from soy foods improves thinking abilities and attention in school-aged children. The researchers analyzed data from 128 children aged 7-13 and found that those who consumed more soy foods showed faster response times during attentional tasks.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJul 2, 2024

Want to stay mentally sharp longer? Eat a healthy diet now

A new study of over 3,000 people found that dietary quality was closely linked with trends in general cognitive ability, with those eating more recommended foods showing improved cognitive performance and reduced risk of dementia. Establishing healthy dietary patterns early in life may support brain health throughout life.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJul 1, 2024
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.

Vaccination may reduce memory loss from COVID-19 infections

A recent study found that vaccination can reduce cognitive symptoms, including memory loss, after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Researchers identified IL-1β as a potential mechanism driving cognitive impairment and showed that prior vaccination reduced inflammation and lowered levels of this cytokine protein.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalNature Immunology·DateJun 27, 2024
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.

Chemotherapy disrupts gut microbiome in patients with breast cancer

A study by Ohio State University researchers found that chemotherapy disrupts the gut microbiome in breast cancer patients, leading to cognitive decline and increased inflammation. The research suggests that targeting the gut microbiome may improve behavioral side effects of chemotherapy.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalBrain Behavior and Immunity·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 26, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

New research questions safety of cannabidiol for pregnant women

Research on mice exposes to cannabidiol during gestation shows altered behaviors and brain changes, affecting nerve cells involved in processing emotions. The study suggests a public health priority to understand CBD's impact on developing nervous systems.

SourceFederation of European Neuroscience Societies·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 24, 2024

Unlocking the entrepreneurial brain: new perspectives on cognitive flexibility

A recent study found that habitual entrepreneurs have increased gray matter volume in the left insula compared to managers, a brain region associated with enhanced cognitive agility and divergent thinking. This suggests that the brains of habitual entrepreneurs are adapted to foster cognitive flexibility.

SourceUniversity of Liège·JournalJournal of Business Venturing Insights·DateJun 21, 2024

Scans show brain's estrogen activity changes during menopause

A new brain imaging study led by Weill Cornell Medicine researchers found that estrogen receptors in the brain increase with age during menopause, affecting cognitive and mood symptoms. The study pioneers PET imaging as a tool to track estrogen activity in the brain, revealing potential predictors of common menopause-related issues.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 20, 2024
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.

Can AI learn like us?

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory designed a new way for AI algorithms to move and process data more efficiently, inspired by the human brain. This design allows individual AI neurons to receive feedback and adjust on the fly, processing data in real-time.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalFrontiers in Computational Neuroscience·DateJun 20, 2024

A new approach to neuroimaging analysis

A new method in neuroimaging analysis allows researchers to predict cognition and behavioral variables using smaller datasets, contrary to the long-held belief that thousands of participants are needed. The technique involves examining MRI data to find associations with behaviors and then applying predictions to an independent sample.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateJun 17, 2024

Confronting trauma alleviates chronic pain among older veterans

A study led by UCLA Health found that emotional awareness and expression therapy (EAET) significantly reduces chronic pain among older adults compared to cognitive behavioral therapy. EAET helps patients confront and release traumatic emotions, leading to a clinically significant reduction in pain symptoms.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 13, 2024
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.

Cognitive test is poor predictor of athletes’ concussion

A study by University of Washington School of Medicine found that a cognitive test is an inaccurate predictor of athletes' concussions. Instead, symptom reports were the most accurate indicator of concussion. The study involved 92 NCAA Division I athletes who sustained a concussion and their teammates as matched control subjects.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2024

Preparing for a world where Alzheimer’s disease is treatable

Researchers estimate that 32% of memory clinic attendees and 14% of specialist cognitive service patients are eligible for disease-modifying therapies. Biomarker testing is crucial to identify suitable patients, but only a minority have undergone tests.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalJournal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateJun 11, 2024

Higher blood pressure is associated with poorer cognition in adolescence

A Finnish study found that adolescents with higher blood pressure and arterial stiffness exhibit poorer cognitive functions, particularly attention and learning. The study also reveals interesting sex differences in the associations between blood pressure, arterial stiffness, and cognition in adolescents.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalPhysiological Reports·DateJun 5, 2024

Training cognitive control in children does not change brain or behavior

A new study published in Nature Neuroscience found that training exercises designed to improve cognitive control in children do not lead to any brain changes or improvements in related behavioral measures. The study tested 235 children aged six to 13 and found that while they improved on specific tasks, these gains did not carry over i...

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 5, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.