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A time for memories

Researchers at the University of Leicester used intracranial electrodes to record single neurons in epilepsy patients and found a specific brain response marking the timing of these neuron firings. This response, present for consciously recognized pictures, is thought to be a gateway for processing stimuli to form memories.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 23, 2014

Mannotriose promotes survival of hippocampal neurons

Researchers found that mannotriose improves hippocampal neuron survival rates after corticosterone-induced injury. Mannotriose also restored protein levels of glucocorticoid receptor, serum and glucocorticoid-regulated protein kinase, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateJan 3, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Brain repair after injury and Alzheimer's disease

Scientists use reactive glial cells to regenerate healthy neurons in a breakthrough technology for treating brain injuries and Alzheimer's disease. In mouse models and human cell cultures, the method successfully converts glial cells into functional neurons.

SourcePenn State·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateDec 19, 2013

Toll-like receptor 4-mediated apoptosis of hippocampal neurons

Researchers found TLR4 signaling increases apoptotic ratio in hippocampal neurons stimulated by lipopolysaccharide. Inhibiting AKT and GSK-3β pathways decreases active Caspase-3 and Bax/Bcl-2 ratios, suggesting a new target for neurodegenerative disease treatment.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateDec 4, 2013

How our nerves keep firing

Researchers discovered ultrafast recycling of synaptic vesicles in nerve cells, allowing for rapid signal transmission and potentially protecting against neurodegenerative diseases. This process enables the brain and muscles to function continuously without interruption.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature·DateDec 4, 2013
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.

Gene therapy bolsters enzyme activity to combat Alzheimer's disease in mice

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital scientists have identified an enzyme that can halt or reverse the build-up of toxic protein fragments in mice with Alzheimer's disease. Gene therapy increased activity of the enzyme neuraminidase 1, reducing plaques in the brain involved in learning and memory.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 3, 2013
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Simulating Alzheimer's disease in transgenic mice

Researchers have developed an animal model to simulate the pathological process of Alzheimer's disease, focusing on the locus coeruleus. This study shows that degenerative alterations in noradrenergic neurons of the locus coeruleus are consistent with pathological changes observed in patients with Alzheimer's disease.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateSep 5, 2013

Brain circuit can tune anxiety

Researchers at MIT have identified a key brain circuit that controls anxiety levels, providing new insights into the development of effective treatments. The study found that manipulating this circuit can boost or reduce anxiety in mice, suggesting a promising avenue for future research.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNeuron·DateAug 21, 2013

Why don't we all get Alzheimer's disease?

A team of researchers has discovered that healthy brain cells segregate amyloid precursor protein (APP) and beta-secretase enzyme (BACE-1) into distinct compartments, preventing their combination and triggering Alzheimer's disease. This separation mechanism may hold the key to understanding how AD develops in some individuals.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNeuron·DateAug 7, 2013

Rat hippocampal neurons: An executor of neuroinflammation

Recent research reveals that Toll-like receptor 4 expressed in cerebral cortical neurons stimulates inflammatory pathways, suggesting that neurons may be both passive victims and activators of neuroinflammation. Lipopolysaccharide triggers the Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor-κB pathway, leading to neuroinflammatory responses.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateJul 13, 2013
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.

Exercise reorganizes the brain to be more resilient to stress

Regular exercise reduces brain's stress response and anxiety by strengthening mechanisms that prevent excited neurons from firing. The study finds that physical activity enhances local inhibitory mechanisms in the ventral hippocampus, leading to a boost of activity in inhibitory neurons.

SourcePrinceton University·DateJul 3, 2013

Weapons testing data determines brain makes new neurons into adulthood

Researchers have found that a small portion of the human brain involved in memory makes new neurons well into adulthood, according to data from nuclear weapons testing of the 1950s and '60s. The study supports the importance of investigating the therapeutic potential of adult neurogenesis for age-related cognitive disorders.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalCell·DateJun 10, 2013
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.

Scientists coax brain to regenerate cells lost in Huntington's disease

Researchers successfully mobilize brain's native stem cells to replenish neurons lost in Huntington's disease. The study demonstrates the feasibility of a completely new concept to treat the disease by recruiting endogenous neural stem cells to regenerate cells, significantly extending survival of treated mice.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJun 6, 2013

Stem cell transplant restores memory, learning in mice

Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison successfully transplanted human embryonic stem cells into mouse brains to repair damaged neural circuits. The study demonstrates the potential for stem cell therapy to treat neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's and depression.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateApr 21, 2013

Experiment shows why some stress is good for you

New research by Daniela Kaufer and Elizabeth Kirby found that acute stress doubles the proliferation of new brain cells in the hippocampus, leading to improved mental performance two weeks later. The study suggests that moderate stress can help individuals perform better when alert, but excessive stress can be harmful.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·DateApr 16, 2013
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.

Use it or lose it

A new study found that prolonged exposure to an enriched environment activates brain receptors, preventing amyloid beta protein from weakening nerve cell communication. This provides a molecular mechanism for why a richer environment can help lessen the memory-eroding effects of Alzheimer's disease.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNeuron·DateMar 6, 2013

Ability of brain to protect itself from damage revealed

Researchers at the University of Oxford have identified a natural biological mechanism that allows brain cells to survive during a stroke, enabling the development of potential neuroprotective drugs. The 'endogenous neuroprotection' discovered in rats has shown to increase cell survival by stimulating production of hamartin protein.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature Medicine·DateFeb 24, 2013

Stanford researchers develop tool for reading the minds of mice

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a technique to observe hundreds of neurons firing in the brain of a live mouse in real-time. The tool uses fluorescent protein and calcium ions to decipher patterns in brain activity, offering insights into long-term information storage and spatial memory.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateFeb 19, 2013

Dickkopf makes fountain of youth in the brain run dry

A team of scientists from the German Cancer Research Center has discovered that silencing Dickkopf-1, a signaling molecule that promotes age-related cognitive decline, leads to increased neurogenesis in the hippocampus. This results in improved spatial orientation and memory performance in mice, even in advanced adult age.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateFeb 7, 2013

Researchers find a better way to culture central nervous cells

A study by Brown University researchers found that the protein apoE4 is surprisingly useful in promoting neuron growth, even though it's associated with Alzheimer's disease. The findings suggest a better method for growing neurons outside the body, which could be used to treat neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceBrown University·JournalBiomaterials·DateJan 29, 2013
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.

How the brain stays receptive

Research reveals that Pannexin1 channel protein is critical for synaptic plasticity, a key process in learning and memory. Mice lacking Pannexin1 display autistic-like behavior and impaired spatial orientation, highlighting the importance of this channel for brain function.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 9, 2013

Eliminating useless information important to learning, making new memories

A study found that older brains struggle to filter out unnecessary information, leading to reduced learning and memory capabilities. The researchers discovered a link between the NMDA receptor and long-term depression, which is essential for sculpting memories and eliminating unnecessary information.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 9, 2013

Brake on nerve cell activity after seizures discovered

Scientists have identified a gene expression that initiates a protective electrical response after seizures, which could prevent recurrent seizures and the onset of devastating epilepsy. This discovery also has implications for relief from chronic pains, cardiovascular disease, and recovery from mood disorders.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalNeuron·DateDec 19, 2012

After 100 years, understanding the electrical role of dendritic spines

Dendritic spines play a vital role in isolating and amplifying electrical signals received at synapses, enabling neurons to communicate with each other. The discovery sheds light on the brain's complex processing mechanisms and may lead to advances in treating diseases like Alzheimer's and Huntington's.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·DateDec 5, 2012

Where 'where it's at' is at in the brain

A new study in rats identifies a region called the postrhinal cortex that links objects to places in the brain, integrating spatial and nonspatial information upstream of the hippocampus. This finding has implications for treating traumatic brain injuries and neuropsychiatric diseases such as schizophrenia and depression.

SourceBrown University·JournalNeuron·DateDec 5, 2012
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.

Moderate drinking decreases number of new brain cells

A new study suggests that moderate drinking can decrease brain cell production by up to 40% in adults, leading to potential harm on learning and memory. Researchers found that rats exposed to low levels of alcohol showed reduced nerve cells in the hippocampus, a crucial area for new learning.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNeuroscience·DateOct 24, 2012
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.

Potential new class of drugs blocks nerve cell death

A new class of small molecules, P7C3 series, has been identified to block cell death in animal models of Parkinson's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The compounds protect newborn neurons from cell death and correlate with improvement of disease symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 1, 2012

Learning requires rhythmical activity of neurons

Scientists at the Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry found that effective signal transmission in the hippocampus requires theta-frequency impulses, generating waves that propagate through the brain. This discovery explains why we are more productive after drinking coffee or experiencing stress.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalFrontiers in Neural Circuits·DateSep 26, 2012
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Long-term methadone treatment can affect nerve cells in brain

Recent studies from the Norwegian Institute of Public Health reveal that long-term methadone treatment can affect nerve cells in the brain, leading to changes in cognitive functioning. However, a separate study found no alteration in the formation of new nerve cells, providing some relief for methadone patients.

SourceNorwegian Institute of Public Health·JournalJournal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology·DateAug 15, 2012

Triangles guide the way for live neural circuits in a dish

Researchers at KAIST used triangular shapes to guide axon growth in a dish, finding that smaller vertices were more effective in inducing growth. The study aims to develop a reproducible neural circuit model for learning and memory studies as well as drug screening applications.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalJournal of Neural Engineering·DateJul 19, 2012

No new neurons in the human olfactory bulb

Researchers found that the human olfactory bulb, a brain structure processing sensory input from the nose, lacks new neuron generation like other mammals. This discovery may explain why humans have a poorer sense of smell compared to other animals.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNeuron·DateMay 24, 2012

Weight struggles? Blame new neurons in your hypothalamus

Researchers found that a high-fat diet encourages more eating and fat storage by spurring new neurons in the hypothalamus, a key area for regulating hunger and body weight. This neurogenesis is critical in regulating weight gain and fat storage.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMay 21, 2012
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.

Reawakening neurons: Researchers find an epigenetic culprit in memory decline

A new study reveals that an overactive enzyme called HDAC2 is responsible for memory problems in Alzheimer's disease. When genetically blocked, the enzyme 'reawakens' neurons and restores cognitive function in mice. The findings suggest that drugs inhibiting HDAC2 could be effective treatments for some devastating effects of the disease.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateFeb 29, 2012

Research team delves into the roots of hunger and eating

Research reveals that AgRP neurons drive feeding behaviors and undergo anatomical changes during fasting, becoming more active and responsive to hunger-promoting stimuli. The study provides insight into the neural mechanisms controlling weight gain and obesity.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 8, 2012
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.

New target for Alzheimer's drugs

Researchers have identified beta-arrestin, a protein that supports connections between neurons, as a crucial link to short-term memory. By regulating synaptic plasticity, beta-arrestin plays a key role in the formation and disassembly of neural connections, which can help prevent Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 8, 2012

Why the brain is more reluctant to function as we age

Researchers at the University of Bristol identified a novel cellular mechanism underlying age-related cognitive decline, revealing that changes to sodium channels contribute to decreased neuronal excitability. The study found that aged brain cells struggle to generate action potentials due to altered sodium channel activation properties.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNeurobiology of Aging·DateFeb 1, 2012

Brain's connective cells are much more than glue

New Tel Aviv University research reveals glia cells' pivotal role in brain plasticity, adapting to new stimuli and regulating neural activity. Glia cells sort information for learning purposes, controlling the transfer of signals between neurons.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateDec 29, 2011

Taxi driver training changes brain structure

A study by Eleanor Maguire found that taxi driver training increases gray matter in the hippocampus, a brain area responsible for memory and spatial navigation. The brain's plasticity allows it to adapt to new tasks, even in adulthood.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 8, 2011
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.

Zinc's role in the brain

Researchers discovered zinc's critical role in regulating neuronal communication, affecting memories formation and learning. The study found that removing zinc interferes with long-term potentiation, a process important for memory and learning.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Scarborough·JournalNeuron·DateOct 5, 2011

2-dimensional learning

Researchers found that passive viewing of 2D images can lead to sustained changes in nerve cell connections, facilitating the expression of persistent hippocampal long-term depression. This discovery has implications for developing strategies to improve digital learning and reduce apathy towards traditional teaching methods.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateSep 26, 2011

Zinc regulates communication between brain cells

A study by Duke University researchers found that zinc plays a critical role in regulating communication between brain cells, particularly in the hippocampus. The discovery could lead to a better understanding of memory formation and epilepsy.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNeuron·DateSep 21, 2011
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.

MS research: Myelin influences how brain cells send signals

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a cell-culture system that mimics the coating of nerve cells with protective myelin, opening up new possibilities for studying multiple sclerosis. The study found that myelin regulates key protein placement and activity in sending electrical signals along hippocampal axons.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJul 21, 2011