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Do men outnumber women in academic neurology programs?

A recent study found that men outnumber women in top-ranked academic neurology programs, consistent with previous research on neurology and other specialties. The study analyzed data from 1,712 academic neurologists across 29 programs, highlighting the underrepresentation of women in academic careers.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateApr 2, 2018

Can your brain testify against you?

A review explores the applications of neuroscience in law, highlighting the need for clear guidelines to balance potential benefits with civil liberties. The use of neuroscientific evidence raises concerns about individual rights and privacy, particularly in determining guilt and intent.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateFeb 2, 2018

New method to map miniature brain circuits

Scientists have developed a new technique to map electrical circuits in the brain with unprecedented accuracy, revealing the detailed architecture of microcircuits. This breakthrough enables researchers to understand how the brain processes complex information and may lead to insights into behavior and sensory processing.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 12, 2018

Putting a fork in cognitive decline

A study published in Neurology suggests that consuming daily leafy green vegetables can help preserve memory and thinking skills as people age. The research found that those who ate more leafy greens showed a slower rate of decline on cognitive tests, equivalent to being 11 years younger in age.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalNeurology·DateDec 20, 2017

For stroke patients, rating scales predict discharge destination

A systematic review of nine studies found that standardized outcome measures like the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) can predict stroke patients' discharge destinations. Patients with higher scores on these scales are more likely to be discharged home, while those with lower...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Neurologic Physical Therapy·DateDec 18, 2017

Prehospital supraglottic airway is associated with good neurologic outcome in cardiac arrest victims

A study published in Academic Emergency Medicine found that prehospital use of supraglottic airways is linked to better neurological outcomes in cardiac arrest patients who receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The study suggests that SGA may improve oxygenation, supporting its continued use in emergency medical services.

SourceSociety for Academic Emergency Medicine·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateNov 28, 2017

Found in translation

Researchers found that reading stories triggers unique patterns of brain activation, regardless of language or cultural origin. This study suggests exposure to narrative storytelling can have a widespread effect on triggering better self-awareness and empathy for others.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·DateOct 5, 2017

Mind wandering is common during driving

Researchers found that mind wandering occurs in 70% of drivers during a simulation, causing distinctive brain activity. Drivers are often unaware of their mental drift, which can impair reaction time and increase road traffic crashes. The study suggests that autonomous transport systems may be an option to improve safety.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateAug 31, 2017

Scientists restore youthful plasticity to the brains of adult mice

Researchers at University of Utah Health successfully rejuvenated the plasticity of adult mouse brains, specifically in the visual cortex, by triggering a shift with a single gene. This breakthrough suggests a potential target for new treatments that could recover brain youthful potential and reduce cognitive decline with aging.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 8, 2017

Individual insight into brain networks

Harvard scientists have identified two brain networks that lie side-by-side in the brain and may play key roles in planning, remembering and imagination. These networks are intertwined, with one connected to memory structures while the other isn't, suggesting they originated from similar processes during brain development and evolution.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNeuron·DateJul 19, 2017

A personalized rehabilitation algorithm helps stroke patients walk again

Scientists developed an algorithm for a robotic harness that provides personalized support to address motor defects in stroke and spinal cord injury patients. Wearing the harness allows participants to walk with abilities comparable to healthy individuals, offering a promising alternative to traditional rehabilitation programs.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 19, 2017

Brains of one-handed people suggest new organization theory

Researchers found that brain regions for missing body parts are repurposed in congenital one-handers, suggesting a new understanding of brain organization based on function rather than body part. This discovery reveals remarkable brain plasticity and holds potential for developing prosthetic limbs.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 20, 2017

The incorrigibles

A USC-led study found that people are less flexible when considering counter-evidence on political issues, but more so on non-political statements. The brain's Default Mode Network and amygdalae regions were activated in response to belief challenges.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 23, 2016

What free will looks like in the brain

Johns Hopkins researchers track brain activity as participants make choices entirely on their own, pinpointing the parietal lobe's role in attention switching and frontal cortex involvement in deliberation. The findings shed light on the neural mechanisms underlying human volition and decision-making.

Neurological complications of Zika virus

A review article by J. David Beckham highlights Zika virus's impact on global health, emphasizing the need for ongoing research to develop a viable vaccine and treatment options. The article notes that exposure avoidance through insect repellent and protective measures is currently the best approach to prevent complications.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateMay 16, 2016

Study points to challenges, hopes of helping vulnerable patients avoid stroke

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that ticagrelor, a commonly used antiplatelet medication, did not significantly reduce stroke risk in patients with transient ischemic attacks or minor strokes. The study suggests that combination therapies may be needed to better prevent strokes in this vulnerable pati...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 10, 2016

Prison's extended punch

A new study by Kathleen Brewer-Smyth of the University of Delaware's College of Health Sciences found that female inmates with an incarcerated adult family member during childhood were more than twice as likely to have neurological abnormalities as adults. The implications are significant internationally, particularly in light of a Wor...

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalHealth Care For Women International·DateApr 19, 2016