Articles tagged with Brain
A study published by Temple University researchers debunks the longstanding 'Trojan Horse' model of HIV-caused dementia. They found that a large, late invasion of HIV-infected macrophages into the brain is responsible for the disease, not early latent infection as previously thought.
Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center have discovered that axons are highly sensitive to tiny changes in molecular gradients. This finding has significant implications for understanding neural development and regeneration. The team plans to further investigate the role of molecular gradients in guiding axon growth.
A new molecule, AM1172, has been identified as a potential treatment for overeating and drug dependency. By regulating the brain's natural 'bliss' system, AM1172 may help counterbalance feelings of anxiety and depression that contribute to obesity and substance dependence.
Common in 18- to 30-month-old children, scale errors occur when youngsters try to perform actions on miniature objects despite knowing they're too small. The study suggests a failure of inhibitory control and immaturity of the prefrontal cortex.
Scientists have developed fruit flies with fluorescent genes to study memory formation, discovering that a specific set of neurons, called projection neurons, show increased active connections after learning. The new synaptic activity disappeared within minutes but the flies continued to avoid the odor they associated with the shock.
A new study published in Nature Neuroscience reveals that a specific group of neurons in the brain, known as the ARC pacemaker, play a crucial role in regulating hunger and satiety signals. This finely balanced mechanism can go wrong if one small error occurs, leading to difficulties in weight management through diet and exercise alone.
The Dartmouth College fMRI Data Center has archived over 70 complete studies with data from 1,000 individuals. Researchers can access the repository at no charge, fulfilling over 1,200 requests. The collection contributes to understanding human cognition.
The American Academy of Neurology has developed a guideline evaluating the use of transcranial doppler ultrasound (TCD) in patients with known or suspected cerebral vascular disease. TCD provides valuable information in screening children with sickle cell disease for stroke risk and detecting vasospasms after subarachnoid hemorrhage.
Studies show humans can recognize word boundaries in complex languages through statistical analysis of sound patterns. A new test reveals people can distinguish regularity in consonant relationships and use them to divide sounds into words with great accuracy.
The study reveals two locomotor activity rhythms originating from separate areas within the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), highlighting a network of multiple oscillators. This finding suggests that uncoupling of oscillators within the central pacemaker itself can cause symptoms like jet lag and rotating work schedules.
Researchers used MR spectroscopy to analyze 27 patients with previously treated brain tumors and found that Choline, Creatine, and N-acetylaspartate were detectable markers for tumor identification. Early detection can lead to timely treatment and prevent unnecessary therapy.
New Saint Louis University research reveals that high triglycerides in the bloodstream prevent leptin from reaching the brain, leading to increased hunger and weight gain. The study suggests that lowering triglyceride levels may be a key factor in solving the obesity epidemic.
A new study found that infusing a molecule called glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) directly into the brain improved Parkinson's disease symptoms in 41% of patients. The GDNF infusion resulted in significant increases in dopamine production and was sustained for at least two years, according to the research.
A group of researchers has outlined the ethical issues raised by modern neuroscience, including the use of plastic surgery and neural enhancement. The panel argues that treating illnesses rather than healthy individuals is more acceptable, but raises questions about the long-term effects of brain-altering medications like Ritalin.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University have discovered that groups of brain cells synchronize their electrical activity to enhance orientation discrimination. By studying the firing rates of dozens of neurons, scientists found that synchronization among six neurons can discriminate variations in orientation as small as two degrees. This ...
A study published in JAMA found a significant link between delirium in ICU patients and increased mortality rates. The researchers also highlighted the economic burden of treating delirium in ICUs, estimating costs ranging from $4 billion to over $20 billion nationwide.
A study published in Neuron found that a lack of RIM1 alpha protein leads to profound deficits in learning and memory, impacting mice with symptoms similar to schizophrenia. The discovery offers insights into the molecular events underlying learning and memory processes.
A recent study led by University of Rochester Medical Center professor Günter Oberdörster investigates the link between nanotechnology and human health. The research suggests that nano-sized particles may accumulate in the body and cause harmful inflammation, potentially leading to brain damage or central nervous system disorders.
Organ donations from living donors are less common in Canada due to cultural variations. Non-Western cultures perceive death as a more integrated state than Western societies do, making organ donation challenging for some individuals. Healthcare professionals must be aware of these differences and provide respectful care.
Researchers discovered that deleting two related genes linked to inherited Alzheimer's disease causes memory loss, nerve cell death, and brain degeneration in mice. The study suggests that blocking the function of these genes may worsen the disease, providing a new perspective on its cause.
A recent study published in PNAS found that single cocaine exposure can increase both morphine preference and kappa-opioid receptor agonist aversion in rats. This suggests the existence of opposing brain circuits involved in drug craving and avoidance, with potential implications for treating addiction by modulating these pathways.
Researchers discovered a myosin gene mutation that correlates with anatomical changes in early hominid fossil record, including smaller jaw muscles and larger brain size. The mutation, estimated at 2.5 million years ago, may have lifted an evolutionary constraint on brain growth in early humans.
A study by researchers at University College London found that when participants were lifting a heavy box, they perceived the weight of an actor's lifted box as lighter than it actually was. This suggests that our brains use simulation theory to understand others' actions, which can lead to biased judgments in social situations. Accord...
A new study suggests that nicotine may protect the brain by inhibiting the activation of microglia, a key step in nerve cell death. The researchers identified the alpha-7 acetylcholine receptor subtype as the specific site where nicotine binds to block microglial activation.
A new hypothesis suggests that Alzheimer's disease arises from inflammation, leading to the creation of abnormal metabolites that modify amyloid beta proteins. These misfolded proteins accumulate into fibrils and plaques, causing neuronal loss and contributing to the disease.
The study reveals that the UK is a highly desirable place to work due to career advancement opportunities directly related to excellence. In contrast, Italy faces brain drain issues due to under-funding, patronage, and protectionism in its academic environment.
A study published in The Lancet found that subdural hemorrhages in full-term babies are rare and typically resolve on their own. The research suggested that forceps-assisted deliveries and other trauma during birth may increase the risk of bleeding, but even then, it is usually not a cause for concern.
The Kavli Institute for Brain Science at Columbia University will focus on analyzing and deciphering neural signaling in complex brain systems. Dr. Eric Kandel, a Nobel laureate, is the first director of the institute.
A new animal model has been created to evaluate the effectiveness of an Alzheimer's vaccine, with promising results in clearing brain amyloid and reversing cognitive decline. The study involved vaccinating rhesus monkeys with beta-amyloid, a protein fragment suspected of disrupting nerve cells in the Alzheimer brain.
The new centre will combine functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and magnetoencephalography (MEG) to study brain processes involved in everyday mental tasks. Research at the centre may lead to improved treatments for conditions like strokes, multiple sclerosis, and schizophrenia.
The Canavan Disease Clinical Research Training Fellowship supports research into the cause, treatment, and potential cure of this fatal genetic disorder. McPhee plans to examine oligodendrocytes, cells responsible for white matter in the brain, to improve understanding of Canavan disease mechanisms.
Researchers created a mouse model for migraines to study debilitating headaches. The FHM mouse showed increased calcium channel activation and susceptibility to cortical spreading depression (CSD), suggesting hyperexcitability in the brain may trigger pain.
A study estimates that brain and nervous system disorders in the US may cost as much as $1.2 trillion annually, with complex genetics contributing significantly to the disease burden. Genetic factors are believed to play a major role in these disorders, particularly those with high heritability rates.
Researchers found that HIV-positive patients with a history of alcohol abuse showed statistically significant impairments in verbal IQ, verbal reasoning, and reaction time compared to those without a history of alcohol dependence. Even after stopping alcohol use, these patients remained at risk for cognitive impairment.
Research finds that neonatal white matter injury is associated with culture-positive infections and rare instances of metabolic acidosis. The study refutes the idea that delivery complications cause these injuries.
Researchers developed a device called NeuroFlo that increases blood flow to the brain by diverting it from lower extremities. The study tested its safety and effectiveness on 17 patients with ischemic strokes, resulting in improved treatment outcomes for 10 out of 15 conscious patients.
A new study suggests that angioplasty can significantly reduce the risk of stroke in patients with clogged brain arteries. The procedure, which uses a tiny balloon to open blocked vessels, has been shown to be more effective than medication alone in improving outcomes.
Researchers found that brain waves change with each breath, suggesting a new understanding of how sleep apnea affects the brain. The study's novel algorithm detected changes in brain wave activity linked to breathing cycles, promising potential for predicting daytime sleepiness and treatment outcomes.
A study led by Prof. Ehud Ahissar found that two types of neurons respond to whisking motion and surface contact, respectively, indicating a dynamic dance of perception where hands, eyes, and whiskers actively seek out sensation. This research has implications for optimizing artificial sensory aids for the deaf and blind.
Research suggests that changes in brain chemistry are more likely responsible for memory problems associated with normal aging, rather than cell loss. Analyzing data from past studies and ongoing research, experts aim to find cost-effective ways to extend knowledge on maintaining general brain health.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified malonyl-CoA as a key chemical regulator of appetite in mice. By injecting the compound C75 into the brain, they found that levels of malonyl-CoA increase immediately after feeding, triggering appetite signals. This breakthrough understanding could lead to new ways to control appetite.
Researchers have discovered a new gene, malcavernin, associated with the brain disorder CCM, which can be used to diagnose and treat the condition. The discovery provides hope for early detection and monitoring of the disease in families at risk.
USC neuroscientist Emily Liman founds that calcium acts as a bridge for taste cells to send signals to the brain about what's been tasted. The study reveals new details on how the sense of taste works and could lead to the development of better artificial sweeteners or additives.
A study of older Catholic nuns found that those prone to negative emotions like depression and anxiety were more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease. This suggests that psychological distress may be a risk factor for the disease, rather than an early sign.
A yeast model study has identified a key link between alpha-synuclein protein overexpression and Parkinson's disease, shedding light on the protein's role in neurodegeneration. The research found that doubling the expression of alpha-synuclein gene in yeast cells led to toxic inclusion bodies causing cell death and neurodegeneration.
A new MRI technique using whole brain N-acetylaspartate (WBNAA) measures the amount of NAA in the brain, which decreases with MS disease progression. This method is more sensitive and specific than current markers, enabling earlier treatment monitoring and drug development for MS patients.
A study using fMRI found that children with seriously delayed speech have higher levels of right brain lobe activity and less total brain activation than age-matched children. This suggests that speech-delayed children may be less receptive to language as they age, highlighting the importance of early intervention.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine developed a new computer model that accurately reflects how the brain uses experience to improve motor control. The brain creates a map of forces expected in the world by multiplying electrical signals from nerve cells.
Researchers found that patients with Parkinson's disease performed better when their stimulators were turned off in tasks requiring spatial memory and inhibitory control. The study suggests that adjusting stimulation levels may be possible to minimize cognitive impairment while maintaining motor benefits.
Dr. Whalley's work highlights the importance of lifestyle changes in preventing mental decline later in life. His research suggests that childhood diet, economic status, and healthy lifestyles can significantly contribute to well-being.
Researchers at the University of Houston discovered that nicotine can alleviate stress-induced memory impairment and improve symptoms of hypothyroidism. This breakthrough may lead to new therapeutic approaches for boosting memory and treating devastating diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. The study's findings have significant i...
Researchers analyzed data from 18 states and found that high-volume hospitals for Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH) cases have significantly lower mortality rates. The study suggests that centralizing treatment in these high volume centers may improve patient survival.
Researchers have uncovered detailed insights into the brains of ancient flying reptiles, revealing a larger flocculus that enabled them to process sensory data from their wings. The study suggests that this neural center played a crucial role in the pterosaurs' ability to fly and hunt, allowing them to become highly adapted predators.
The Gene Expression Nervous System Atlas (GENSAT) provides a comprehensive map of gene expression in the central nervous system. Researchers can use this tool to explore molecular machinery and chart functional circuitry of the brain and spinal cord, leading to better understanding of neurological disorders.
Research identifies specific brain areas affected in children with dyslexia, suggesting a neurological basis for reading difficulties. Effective teaching can improve reading skills by changing brain activation patterns.
A study by Brian Wansink found that the shape of a beverage glass can alter how much people pour and drink, with taller glasses leading to overconsumption. In three experiments involving teenagers, adults, and bartenders, Wansink discovered that participants consistently underestimated the volume of liquids in shorter, wider glasses.
A UCLA study found 54 genes produced differently in male and female mouse brains prior to hormonal influence, suggesting genetic influences on sexual differences. The research may help explain why people feel male or female and inform the development of treatments for intersex infants.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory found that rats can rapidly and accurately discriminate odors with just one sniff. The study, led by Zach Mainen, reveals vital new information about how the human brain processes information and guides behavior, suggesting that smell is a fast sense rather than a slow one.
Research found that aging brains reduce ovulation in women, leading to decreased fertility. The study suggests that high oestrogen levels and decreased LH release contribute to this effect.
Researchers found that social exclusion activates the same part of the brain as physical pain, leading to elevated activity in the anterior cingulate cortex. The study's authors theorize that this automatic response evolved to protect human survival and well-being.