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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

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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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

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

Prestigious NIH award will advance brain research at UCR

Viji Santhakumar, a UCR professor, has been awarded a $3.5 million NIH grant to study brain circuit function and its impact on memory formation and cognitive deficits in diseases like epilepsy and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

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
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.

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

Apps and AI could help personalize depression diagnosis and treatment

A new study is testing whether digital tools can help predict which patients with depression will benefit from specific treatments and deliver them on demand. The researchers hope to use these tools to broaden access to psychiatric care and realize the promise of precision psychiatry.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago

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
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.

Toddlers' brains show significant growth in cognitive skills by 16 months, study finds

By 16 months, toddlers use the left parietal cortex and both sides of the prefrontal cortex more extensively, enabling them to follow simple instructions and control impulses. The study found that brain changes occur despite no improvement in observable skills between 10 and 16 months.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalImaging Neuroscience·TypeObservational study

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

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
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.

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

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

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

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
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

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

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

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
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.

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

New model could help provide expectant mothers a clearer path to safe fish consumption

A new study creates a framework to reduce confusion around fish consumption during pregnancy and provide clearer guidance on risks and benefits. The research found that consuming low-mercury fish was beneficial, while high-mercury fish was detrimental to neurodevelopment.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology

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
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Brain’s ‘escape switch’ controlled by threat sensitivity dial

Neuroscientists have identified a region of the brain that regulates escape behavior in mice, revealing its role in anxiety and PTSD. The study found that inhibitory neurons can be turned up or down to control sensitivity to threats.

SourceSainsbury Wellcome Centre·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study

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

New AI program from BU researchers could predict likelihood of Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers at Boston University developed an AI model that analyzes speech patterns to predict the likelihood of Alzheimer's disease in patients with mild cognitive impairment. The model achieved an accuracy rate of 78.5% and could potentially revolutionize dementia screening, making it more accessible and efficient.

SourceBoston University·JournalAlzheimer’s & Dementia

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
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.

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

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

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

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
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.

Maternal inheritance of Alzheimer’s disease tied to increased risk of developing disease

A recent study by Mass General Brigham researchers found that adults with a family history of Alzheimer's disease on their mother's side had higher amyloid levels in their brains. This suggests that maternal inheritance may play a role in identifying individuals at heightened risk for developing the disease.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalJAMA Neurology·TypeObservational study

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

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

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
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.

YALE NEWS: Early life experiences linked to racial disparities in cognition

A new study led by Yale researchers found that attending segregated schools significantly contributes to cognitive decline and cognition disparities between older Black and white Americans. The study analyzed data from a large representative sample of the U.S. population, assessing the quality of education provided and individuals' per...

SourceYale University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine

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
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.

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

How stress knocks out your cognitive reserve

A new study from Karolinska Institutet found that stress weakens the association between cognitive reserve and improved cognition in memory clinic patients. Cognitive reserve is built through experiences like higher education and social interactions, but high or persistent stress levels can impair these benefits.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·TypeObservational study

Lighting up the brain: What happens when our ‘serotonin center’ is triggered?

Researchers at OIST used a novel technique to study how activating the brain's serotonin center affects awake animals. They found that serotonin from the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) activates brain areas influencing behavior and motivation, including the cerebral cortex and basal ganglia.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study

A multimodal approach to better predict recovery in patients with disorders of consciousness

A new multimodal approach has been developed to predict recovery in patients with disorders of consciousness, combining PET scans, multivariate EEG analysis, functional MRI, and cognitive evoked potentials. The approach shows improved prognostic performance and accuracy compared to standard measurements.

SourceInstitut du Cerveau (Paris Brain Institute)·JournalNature Medicine·TypeObservational study
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.

International experts reach consensus on the labeling of spatial neglect

A consensus has been reached by an international team of rehabilitation researchers and clinicians on the standardized labeling of spatial neglect, a common disorder following neurological injury. The panel adopted 'spatial neglect' as the standard term for the disorder, aiming to improve diagnosis, treatment, and research.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalArchives of Rehabilitation Research and Clinical Translation·TypeSurvey

Psychedelic drug-induced hyperconnectivity in the brain helps clarify altered subjective experiences

A new study shows that psilocybin initiates a pattern of hyperconnectivity in the brain linked to the ego-modifying effects and feelings of oceanic boundlessness. The findings provide insights into how the brain works on psychedelic drugs and their potential use to treat psychiatric disorders.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging·TypeImaging analysis

Crows demonstrate keen counting skills through controlled vocalizations

Researchers found that crows can control the number of vocalizations they produce in response to visual and auditory cues, using a non-symbolic approximate number system. This skill mirrors early counting abilities in human toddlers.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience

Revolutionizing depression treatment online

A new study at Hebrew University found that guided internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy significantly improves depression and insomnia symptoms over time. The study emphasizes the importance of the therapeutic alliance and attachment styles in predicting treatment outcomes.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalPsychotherapy Research·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial

Under stress, an observer is more likely to help the victim than to punish the perpetrator

A study published in PLOS Biology found that stressed participants were more likely to help the victim than punish the perpetrator in a simulated third-party intervention task. The researchers observed higher brain activation in regions linked to decision-making and mentalizing when stressed participants chose to help.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study
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.

Neuron special issue explores the science of consciousness

This Neuron special issue highlights recent findings on consciousness research, including neural theories, sleep, anesthesia, coma recovery, and prefrontal cortex roles. It showcases how these areas contribute to our understanding of the complex topic.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·TypeLiterature review

Over 20,000 people join search for new dementia treatments

Scientists have recruited over 20,000 volunteers to a resource aimed at accelerating dementia drug development. The cohort will enable healthy individuals with increased genetic risk to participate in clinical trials, allowing researchers to test new treatments before symptoms appear.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis
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.