Articles tagged with Neurology
A study has found that pheasant meat can contain small fragments of toxic lead, which can be absorbed by the body and cause long-term harm. Researchers detected up to 10mg of tiny lead shards per pheasant, widely distributed within the bird's tissues.
Researchers developed a blood test that predicts poor outcomes in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI), allowing clinicians to make decisions earlier on possible treatment. The test, which measures protein biomarkers GFAP and UCH-L1, showed high accuracy in predicting death and severe disability six months after injury.
Researchers found that astrocytes can transfer their mitochondria to damaged neurons after a brain hemorrhage, stimulating the production of an enzyme that neutralizes free radicals. This treatment showed improved neurological recovery in mice, but not if the mitochondria were without the protective enzyme Mn-SOD.
Researchers at UC San Francisco have discovered how to shift damaged brain cells from a diseased state into a healthy one using CRISPR technology. The study found that reprogramming microglia cells can help remove protein plaques and protect synapses, potentially treating Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia.
Researchers developed a blood test tool that predicts patient outcomes after traumatic brain injury (TBI), with 87% accuracy for predicting death and 86% for predicting severe disability. The tests are diagnostic and prognostic, easy to administer, swift, and inexpensive.
A recent case study at Kobe University reports a 15-month recovery process for a patient with impaired ACTH secretion due to COVID-19. The research team successfully restored hormone levels through ACTH replacement therapy, and the patient's condition improved significantly after one year and a half.
A new gene therapy approach using the neuroprotective protein SynCav1 has shown promising results in slowing down ALS disease progression and increasing life span in rodent models. The treatment preserved spinal cord motor neurons and extended longevity in mice, with similar effects observed in a rat model of ALS.
A novel subset of CD8+ regulatory-like T cells (CD8+TRLs) has been identified as 'first responders' to stroke, providing fast-acting and lasting protection. These cells reach the brain within 24 hours after stroke onset, releasing molecules that provide direct neuroprotective effects.
Researchers propose a new learning method for individuals with autism, utilizing 'memory flashes' to accelerate learning and improve visual perception capabilities. The study showed significant improvement in both learning speed and generalization of skills, even under new conditions.
A new study at the University of Missouri found that prenatal opioid exposure can trigger long-term neurological or behavioral effects in children. The research suggests that opioids impact the developing fetus' gut microbiome, leading to changes in metabolic pathways and potentially affecting overall health and wellness.
Researchers discover gene AVIL responsible for deadly brain tumor also causes two forms of childhood cancer, rhabdomyosarcoma. Blocking AVIL activity prevents formation of the disease in lab samples and mouse models.
A phase 3 clinical trial found that patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis treated with rituximab had a five-fold lower risk of relapse compared to those receiving standard dimethyl fumarate treatment. Rituximab also showed fewer new MS plaques on magnetic resonance imaging.
Women with conditions like MS, migraine, and epilepsy face increased unplanned pregnancy due to treatment effects on hormonal contraceptives. Teratogenic drugs used for neurological treatments may be restricted or unavailable during pregnancy.
A team of UCI biologists finds that interleaving old information with new knowledge helps artificial neural networks retain long-term knowledge without catastrophic forgetting. This discovery holds potential for tackling cognitive issues and improving algorithm efficiency in various applications.
A new study found that post-operative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is associated with a higher risk of hospitalization for heart failure among patients undergoing cardiac and non-cardiac surgery. POAF may be an early marker for heart failure, and its presence could contribute to the development of the condition.
Researchers with the Calgary Stroke Program have made a breakthrough in treating acute ischemic stroke with Tenectepele, a safe and well-tolerated drug that can be administered as a single dose. The study shows that TNK works better than current recommended drug tPA, restoring blood flow faster and for a longer period.
Residents in predominantly Black communities are more likely to live near a hospital with a certified stroke center but face lower chances of receiving optimal treatment. The study also reveals significant disparities in access to stroke centers based on income and geographic location.
Researchers found that 67.7% of stroke patients with previously undiagnosed major risk factors had one underlying condition, with dyslipidaemia being the most common detected vascular risk factor. The study suggests that identifying and treating these conditions can help prevent future strokes.
A new study published in CMAJ found that youth hockey players with more years of bodychecking experience had a significantly higher risk of concussion than those with less experience. The researchers collected data on 941 players aged 15-17 and found that concussion was the most common injury, making up over one-third of all injuries.
Researchers developed a low-cost 3D model of the brain to study SARS-CoV-2's neurological effects. The adapted virus replicates 30 times more efficiently in astrocytes than neurons, highlighting the importance of these cells in central nervous system infection.
A Finnish research group developed a wearable device to assess infants' motor abilities during playtime, allowing for accurate tracking of neurological development. The smart jumpsuit enables out-of-the-lab assessments, supporting early clinical diagnostics and therapies.
A new study demonstrates a computer tool, PrimSeq, that accurately identifies and counts arm movements in people undergoing stroke rehabilitation. The tool has shown to be 77% effective in tracking the intensity of patients' movements during therapy.
A UC San Diego longitudinal study found that most COVID-19 long-haulers continue to suffer from neurological symptoms six months after infection, with memory impairment and decreased concentration being the most prevalent. Researchers identified a new subgroup with advanced symptoms, including tremor and difficulty balancing.
A new study reveals that drumming can improve the life quality of young people diagnosed with autism by enhancing brain function and behavior. Participants showed fewer signs of hyperactivity, inattention, and repetitive behaviors, demonstrating better control of their emotions.
A new neurobiological model provides a unified framework for understanding various forms of creativity, including abstract thinking, improvisation, and divergent problem-solving. The model suggests that different brain areas are activated depending on the type of creativity, with dopamine playing a crucial role in controlling and optim...
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered a molecular connector, BASP1, that helps cocaine latch on to brain cells, even at low doses. This finding may explain why women are more susceptible to cocaine addiction and could lead to new treatments.
A recent study at UC San Francisco discovered that fragmented tau protein in diseased neurons could be a new target for existing drugs, potentially improving diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's. The researchers found that measuring the fragments in cerebrospinal fluid may help distinguish between different forms of dementia.
A study by UC San Diego Health found that sending patients a text message when their doctor is ready can reduce wait times and improve patient satisfaction. The 'telemedicine untethered' option showed a 55-minute time savings in clinic operations, with zero late appointments and increased flexibility for both patients and providers.
A study by Kyushu University has identified biomarkers in blood samples that distinguish healthy individuals from Hikikomori patients and predict the severity of the condition. Key findings include elevated ornithine levels, lower bilirubin levels, and higher long-chain acylcarnitine levels in patients.
A study of nearly 4.5 million children found a potential association between prenatal exposure to antiseizure medications and increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders. The research suggests that further investigation is needed to confirm these findings.
Researchers propose a new method to study neural networks using intrinsic signal optical imaging (ISOI), which provides detailed maps of brain activity in living subjects. The study shows that ISOI can reveal cortical architecture at columnar resolution, offering a more accurate picture of brain network activity than existing methods.
A team from the University of Wisconsin-Madison found no significant differences in structural brain changes between participants who received short-term mindfulness training and those who did not. Despite this, participants reported increased mindfulness, suggesting that benefits may be related to wellness interventions more broadly.
A new circuit model provides an explanation for how deep brain stimulation (DBS) relieves Parkinson's disease motor symptoms by interrupting a vicious cycle between the subthalamic nucleus and the striatum. The model suggests that DBS restores a balance with other rhythm frequencies, enabling better movement control.
Researchers at the University of Bern have identified how the brain processes emotions during dream sleep. During REM sleep, the brain favors the discrimination of safety versus danger in the dendrites, but blocks the over-reaction to emotion, particularly danger. This decoupling is essential for optimizing survival and stability.
A novel network analysis technology can pinpoint seizure originating brain regions and predict a patient's seizure outcome before surgery, using only 10 minutes of resting state recordings.
Researchers found that genes expressed in the brains of fearless birds differ from those of fearful birds, influencing their behavior and adaptation to new environments. This study provides insights into the genetic basis of fear and boldness in wild animals, potentially leading to novel approaches for addressing anxiety disorders.
A gene therapy approach has effectively reduced neuropathic pain in mice with spinal cord or peripheral nerve injuries without detectable side effects. The treatment, which targets impaired neurons, resulted in long-lasting benefits persisting for at least 2.5 months.
A new study has identified specific groups of bacteria associated with poorer neurological recovery from ischaemic stroke. Fusobacterium and Lactobacillus were linked to increased stroke risk, while Negativibacillus and Lentisphaeria were associated with more severe strokes.
Researchers have discovered a new sleep molecule, microRNA-137 (miR-137), that regulates hypocretin levels for normal sleep. The study found that miR-137 is associated with hypocretin regulation and sleep disorders such as narcolepsy and insomnia.
A new study published in Bioelectronic Medicine found that high-frequency spinal cord stimulation (HF-SCS) was more effective at improving perceived pain reduction than low-frequency SCS (LF-SCS). HF-SCS also showed less subsequent use of opioids to mitigate pain.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a method to identify the immune cells involved in autoimmune diseases and identified four new target molecules for personalized treatment of multiple sclerosis. This approach could lead to more precise treatments with fewer side effects, potentially benefiting other autoimmune diseases.
The latest neurophotonic tools and techniques are reviewed in a new status report, covering advances from molecular nanoprobes to cortical column imaging. The report provides an overview of current state and future directions for brain science research.
Chronic pain causes maladaptive emotional states and is often comorbid with psychiatric disorders. Researchers identified the neuronal circuit involved in chronic pain-induced anxiety in mice, finding that restoring its activity attenuates anxiety.
Scientists at the University of Oxford have developed an 'optomemristor' device that facilitates three-factor learning and emulation of biological computations, making it possible to perform complex machine learning tasks. The device uses both light and electrical signals to interact and consume very little energy.
Johns Hopkins scientists discovered three brain areas – premotor, primary motor, and primary somatosensory – that work together to control sequential movements. These regions are involved in processing sensory cues and adapting to unexpected events, which could lead to new treatments for motor disorders.
A new study published in Stroke Journal Report found that about one third of people treated with mechanical clot removal resumed work three months after stroke treatment. Women were half as likely to return to work compared to men, despite having more favorable characteristics for return to work.
Patients aged ≥75 years with NVAF and previous stroke/transient ischemic attack (TIA) have a higher risk of subsequent ischemic and hemorrhagic events compared to those without previous TIA. DOACs may offer lower bleeding risks for this population.
A team of researchers from Kobe and Kyoto universities proposes an ethical framework for conducting research on conscious brain organoids. The framework assumes that brain organoids already possess consciousness and recommends guidelines similar to those for animal experiments. Key considerations include minimizing the number of organo...
Research finds that brain circuit strength is linked to a child's ability to understand numbers. A four-week number sense training program targeting the intraparietal sulcus (IPS) and hippocampus improved learning outcomes for elementary school-aged children across abilities.
A new study by UC San Francisco and Imperial College London found that psilocybin therapy reduces connections within brain areas tightly connected in depression, while increasing connections to other regions. This leads to improved depressive symptoms and better cognitive functioning in participants.
A postmortem examination of 23 COVID-19 patients revealed significant changes in the sensory system responsible for processing smells. Loss of smell is an early symptom of COVID-19, and this study provides new insights into its underlying causes.
Researchers found that fighters who rapidly cut weight before bouts are more likely to suffer concussions or be misdiagnosed with head trauma. The study also discovered that the practice may not offer a competitive advantage and can leave fighters at a disadvantage more often than not.
Scientists have created a new technology using colour pigments from the food industry to stimulate nerve cells with the help of implantable mini solar cells. This innovation could lead to accelerated healing and prevention of complications in severe brain injuries, as well as potential applications in pain therapy and retinal implants.
A new study found that some symptoms commonly used to diagnose concussions, such as fatigue and neck pain, can be caused by intense exercise rather than a brain injury. The research highlights the need to consider these factors when assessing concussion in athletes on the field.
Researchers analyzed prenatal MRI scans of children later diagnosed with autism and found significant differences in brain structures at 25 weeks' gestation. These differences may be a strong biomarker for predicting ASD emergence, with the insular lobe showing increased volume.
A study reveals that Alzheimer's patients experience lethargy due to the degeneration of neurons that keep them awake, not a lack of sleep. Researchers developed a hypothesis that these patients have trouble staying awake and are testing a treatment approach to shut down the system keeping them awake.
Rice University engineers have developed a tiny, wireless device that can stimulate nerves and treat neurological diseases. The implant, powered by a magnetic transmitter, uses blood vessels as guides to reach targeted nerves.
A new study by researchers at the University of Chicago Medicine has identified a set of sporadic genetic mutations that make it more likely a person will develop cavernous angiomas, which can lead to stroke and seizures. Understanding these underlying causes is key to identifying patients at risk and finding effective treatments.
Researchers from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that dysfunction in a key brain cell subtype contributes to chronic symptoms in Dravet syndrome. The study suggests that increasing expression of Nav1.1 in parvalbumin interneuron axon may be a viable therapeutic target for patients.
A new study by University of Cincinnati researchers analyzed outcome data from a large cohort of patients and found correlations between different risk factors, including age, hemorrhage size, location, and cognitive impairment, which were associated with poor outcomes. The results also showed that Black and Hispanic populations were m...