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Knowing one's place in a social hierarchy

A study published in Neuron reveals the mechanisms behind learning social hierarchies, with the prefrontal cortex playing a key role. The researchers found that people can rapidly form coherent understandings of their own social hierarchy through integrating interaction outcomes.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateDec 7, 2016

Secrets of the human brain unlocked

The study found that brains with more variability and frequent connections tend to have higher IQs and creativity. This discovery could lead to advancements in artificial intelligence and a better understanding of mental health conditions such as schizophrenia and ADHD.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalBrain·DateJul 18, 2016

Fast fluency: Can we identify quick language learners?

A study by Dr. Chantel Prat and colleagues found that a five-minute measurement of resting-state brain activity can predict how quickly adults pick up a second language. Participants with larger 'beta' networks in their brains learned French twice as quickly, suggesting a link between brain activity and language learning speed.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·JournalBrain and Language·DateJun 30, 2016

Practice makes perfect, York U brain study confirms

A new brain study confirms that practice makes perfect in professional ballet dancers, showing the long-term effects of learning complex dance motor sequences. The study found an inverted 'U' learning pattern, where brain activation increases during initial learning and performance, but then decreases as mastery is achieved.

SourceYork University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 29, 2016

Finding iconicity in spoken languages

A new study reveals that iconicity is prevalent across the vocabulary of spoken languages, including English and Spanish. The researchers found that words learned in childhood are the most iconic, which helps children grasp the concept of a word. The study suggests that iconicity plays an important role in word learning and development.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 9, 2015

Math boosts brain research

Researchers at the University of Basel used computational models to describe human memory processes for the first time. The study identified specific genetic profiles underlying distinct mental processes, such as learning and memory storage.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2015

Infants use expectations to shape their brains

Researchers found that infants as young as 5-7 months can use their expectations to rapidly shape their developing brains. Brain activity was detected in visual areas even when the image didn't appear as expected, indicating the brain's ability to set up expectations about incoming events.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 2015

Smartphones may be detrimental to learning process

A Rice University study found that smartphone users believed smartphones would improve their academic performance but ultimately reported detrimental effects on their ability to learn. The study suggests that providing access to smartphones without specific directed learning activities can be counterproductive to the learning process.

SourceRice University·JournalBritish Journal of Educational Technology·DateJul 7, 2015

Pre-lecture diagrams help students take better notes, learn more

A new study from Washington University in St. Louis found that providing illustrative diagrams before lectures enhances student learning and recall, particularly for students who struggle with organizing information. The research suggests that teachers should consider individual differences in learning skills when presenting material.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Applied Research in Memory and Cognition·DateJun 9, 2015

Subconscious learning shapes pain responses

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet found that people can be conditioned to associate images with specific pain responses without conscious awareness. This study suggests that unconscious learning may have a significant impact on higher cognitive processes, including pain perception.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 22, 2015

SwRI reveals the first 'images' of thunder

Researchers from Southwest Research Institute image thunder for the first time, capturing the sound waves created by artificially triggered lightning. The technique allows scientists to study the origins of thunder and the energetic processes associated with lightning, revealing new insights into this natural phenomenon.

The rest of the brain gets in the way

A study using fMRI scans found that unnecessary brain activity hinders learning, while reduced neural connections facilitate faster skill acquisition. The researchers' novel analysis methods revealed complex brain networks and community structures that correlate with individual differences in learning rates.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateApr 7, 2015

The brain game

Researchers found that quicker learners use different brain regions and have more interconnected networks, while slower learners rely on more individualized brain activity. The study provides insight into the neural mechanisms behind skill learning and practice.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateApr 6, 2015

Forcing wounds to close

Researchers at National University of Singapore discover that cells exert directional forces to close gaps in protective epithelial barriers, even when underlying layers are damaged. This 'tug-of-war' mechanism drives mechanical forces responsible for gap closure.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 8, 2015

Job seekers with 'learning' attitude have more success

A study by University of Missouri and Lehigh University researchers discovered that job seekers with learning goal orientation are more successful in achieving career goals. Individuals with this disposition tend to react to failures by intensifying their search process, while those with low LGO decrease intensity. The study suggests t...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·DateJan 21, 2015

How does the brain react to virtual reality? Study by UCLA neuroscientists provides answer

A study published in Nature Neuroscience found that the hippocampus, a region involved in spatial learning and memory, reacts differently to virtual reality than it does to real-world environments. In the virtual world, hippocampal neurons fire randomly, whereas in the real world, they process activity with precision.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateNov 24, 2014

Change your walking style, change your mood

Researchers showed subjects a list of positive and negative words, then asked them to walk on a treadmill while measuring their gait and posture. The study found that those who walked in a depressed style recalled more negative words from the earlier list, suggesting a link between walking style and mood.

SourceCIFAR·JournalJournal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry·DateOct 15, 2014