Articles tagged with Brain
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
An international team of scientists, led by Todd Lencz PhD, discovered new genetic variations related to cognitive ability in a study published in Molecular Psychiatry. The findings suggest a significant genetic overlap between risk for several psychiatric disorders and reduction in cognitive ability.
New research reveals that heartbeat signals can increase racial biases when facing a potential threat, leading to misperceptions of harmless objects as weapons. This study has important implications for tackling police shootings and reducing tragedies caused by racial bias.
A Baylor researcher found that students who re-tell information to someone shortly after learning it recall details better and longer. The 'testing effect' strategy involves actively replaying or re-generating the information through conversation, leading to improved retention over time.
Researchers found that RGS9-2 promotes addiction to oxycodone in both pain-free and chronic pain states. The protein also plays a protective role against oxycodone tolerance. Understanding the mechanisms of oxycodone action can help develop new, less addictive pain management strategies.
Researchers at Uppsala University developed a new antibody design that increases brain uptake of antibodies almost 100-fold, offering new opportunities for treating brain diseases. The modified antibodies use the transferrin receptor to transport them across the blood-brain barrier.
A 9-day-old baby who suffered a normally fatal stroke was saved after Dr. Alexander Drofa removed the clot by combining mechanical and medicinal therapies. The infant's coma made the case particularly challenging.
Freeman's lab will use an innovative mouse-tracking software to study stereotypic vision, exploring its impact on brain visual processing and potential strategies to reduce biases.
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine found that mice reared in darkness show degraded dorsal stream responses, highlighting the importance of early visual experience for proper development. This discovery has implications for understanding vision restoration and recovery from bilateral cataracts.
A study published in Neurology suggests that elevated levels of brain protein tau following a sport-related concussion are associated with a longer recovery period and delayed return to play. Tau levels measured in blood may serve as a marker to help physicians determine an athlete's readiness to return to the game.
The brain can distinguish between expected and unexpected visual motion by selectively silencing neurons sensitive to yaw during intentional turns. This allows flies to stabilize their flight path and shift their gaze without interference. The study provides insights into how the brain processes visual information to control behavior
Researchers found that hummingbird brains are uniquely attuned to detect fast visual motion in any direction. This discovery sheds light on the birds' remarkable ability to zoom and stop quickly while sipping nectar. The findings have implications for understanding flight behaviors, competitive interactions, and courtship displays.
A systematic review confirms Zika virus infection as a cause of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) and congenital brain abnormalities. The study analyzed 72 studies on Zika and GBS, finding at least eight criteria for causality met, while another 36 studies showed seven out of ten criteria satisfied.
Researchers found that brain size evolved at different rates for different species, especially during Homo's evolution, while chewing teeth evolved at similar rates. This challenges the classic view that larger brains led to smaller teeth as a result of tool use.
A study published in PNAS used MEG and computational methods to measure real-time brain processes converting face appearance into recognition. The research team mapped brain activity for each point in time, identifying which parts of the brain encode appearance-based information versus identity-based information.
A team of New York University scientists found that emotional experiences can induce physiological states that persist for long periods, influencing future experience recall. Non-emotional experiences following emotional ones were also better remembered.
Grasping actions have been shown to accelerate the brain's comprehension process, allowing for a faster interpretation of words. This new method could be used in therapies for aphasia, a language disorder affecting stroke patients, by utilizing motor training through grip movements to strengthen word recognition.
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a novel technique to identify carbohydrates, which play a vital role in life processes. The new method, called 'sequencing by recognition,' uses electricity to release current spikes that can be measured and analyzed to identify specific carbohydrate molecules with high accuracy.
Neurons in the brain store immature RNA copies that are pre-manufactured and only need splicing upon stimulation, significantly reducing production time and enabling rapid adaptation. This discovery reveals a new regulatory mechanism for brain plasticity processes.
Researchers developed an artificial neural network using spintronic devices, demonstrating associative memory operation with learning ability, similar to human brain. The technology enables fast-processing capabilities and ultralow-power consumption, opening new horizons in AI technology.
Ron Davis, a Scripps Florida scientist, has been awarded a $5 million Outstanding Investigator Grant to investigate the biological processes underlying memory formation. The grant aims to understand how the brain organizes memories and suppresses their formation, with potential applications in treating neurological disorders.
Research at University of Helsinki finds that noise sensitive individuals' brains process sounds differently, leading to decreased responsiveness to new sounds. This adaptation may help protect against overreacting to noise, suggesting a physiological basis for noise sensitivity.
Rare type 2 innate lymphocytes found in meninges around the brain may play a critical role in battling Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis, and other neurological diseases. The discovery suggests these cells could be the missing link between the brain and gut microbiota.
Clinically depressed children show blunted response to rewards in brain activity, a key finding that may help explain the biological underpinnings of depression. Researchers hope this discovery can lead to new treatments and improve long-term outcomes.
Researchers induced autistic-like behavior in mice by lowering nSR100 protein levels, showing its causative role in autism. The study identifies nSR100 as a hub that channels molecular miscues contributing to the disorder.
Brain connections critical for complex thinking skills deteriorate with age, while movement and hearing connections remain relatively well-preserved. Researchers analyzed brain scans from over 3,500 people aged 45-75 to understand aging's effects on the brain.
Researchers developed a method to read and amplify high confidence states using decoded neurofeedback, boosting participants' confidence without awareness. The effect was reversible, with confidence decreasing when the pattern was no longer detected.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki have successfully corrected Parkinson's disease motor symptoms in mice using a PREP blocker treatment. The treatment, which blocks the formation of alpha-synuclein aggregates, restored motor skills and cleared brain accumulations within two weeks.
Scientists found abnormal immune reactions in the brain's cerebrospinal fluid seven years before expected dementia onset. TREM2 levels can track immune activity and predict disease progression.
A study published in The Lancet found that adding an MRI scan after a 20-week ultrasound scan can increase the accuracy of diagnosing fetal brain abnormalities, with almost all scans being correct. This extra information helps doctors give more accurate diagnoses and advice to parents.
Researchers found that prion diseases can infect the gut through contaminated meat, and that M cells are key to whether or not the infection takes hold. The study suggests that factors like inflammation and ageing may influence a person's risk of contracting prion diseases.
The UCLA team implanted a spinal stimulator in a California man who broke his neck in a dirt-biking accident, showing early promise in returning hand strength and movement. The device bypasses the injury by training the spinal cord to find alternate pathways, allowing patients to regain mobility in their hands.
New research shows that when focused, information is processed continuously, while ignoring stimuli is perceived in waves. This study provides insights into how the brain prioritizes attention and processing of time and space.
Research found that blood flow in fetuses of diabetic mothers is redirected to the placenta, diverting away from the brain. The study used foetal Doppler echocardiography and a computerized model to analyze blood circulation.
A study from Center for Music in the Brain found that oxytocin enhances synchrony in finger-tapping pairs, indicating improved social bonding and prediction skills. The hormone's role in facilitating predictability explains its social effect without subjective affiliation.
Research reveals that macaques possess the physical attributes necessary to produce intelligible human speech, yet their brains lack the neural circuitry required for this ability. This finding debunks the idea that vocal anatomy alone limits speech in nonhumans, highlighting the importance of brain evolution in human language.
A study by Aalto University and the Helsinki Institute for Information Technology used EEG to model user interest in Wikipedia articles, predicting search intentions and recommending relevant documents. This technology has potential to assist humans by automatically monitoring and gathering information through wearable EEG sensors.
Researchers identified four unique depression subtypes based on brain connectivity patterns, providing potential biomarkers for diagnosis and treatment. These subtypes differ in clinical symptoms and response to transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy.
Researchers at OIST uncover a neural mechanism that uses silent gaps to detect species-specific birdsong. Juvenile zebra finches learn song by mimicking adults and preferentially adopt the song of their own species despite noise and variety of birdsongs.
Researchers found that the brain fills in missing details in peripheral vision, creating a visual illusion. The study suggests that this 'filling in' is a general perceptual mechanism that affects many basic visual features.
Rates of breast cancer brain metastasis have not substantially declined despite improved targeted treatments for HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer. Researchers found that the risk of death from brain metastasis is more than twice that of patients with metastasis to other areas of the body.
Researchers found significant alterations in brain networks of PD patients with mild cognitive impairment, indicating complex structural brain network disruption rather than individual white matter degeneration. The study suggests using MRI to monitor the disease and predict cognitive complications.
A study published in Neurology found that higher levels of brain activity in the prefrontal cortex were associated with a higher risk of falls in healthy older adults. The association remained even after accounting for other factors, such as slow walking speed and frailty.
Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine found that brain activity while walking and talking can predict the risk of falling. The study, published in Neurology, involved 166 healthy older adults who were asked to perform tasks such as walking and reciting letters. The researchers found that elevated brain activity during thes...
Researchers developed a microfluidic device that overcomes previous models of the blood-brain barrier, allowing for study of brain inflammation and its link to neurodegenerative conditions. The device was successfully tested with flying colors, paving the way for use in testing new drugs and compounds.
Andrew Holmes receives the ACNP Daniel H. Efron Research Award for his work on understanding the causes of alcoholism and comorbid neuropsychiatric conditions. His research has been published over 170 times, with more than 13,000 citations.
University of Washington researchers demonstrate humans playing a simple two-dimensional computer game using only input from direct brain stimulation. The subjects navigated mazes with improved accuracy when receiving guidance via phosphene stimulation, suggesting potential for encoding novel information into the human brain.
Repeated dieting can cause weight gain as the brain interprets diets as short famines and urges people to store more fat for future shortages. This phenomenon, known as yo-yo dieting, may explain why people struggle to keep weight off after trying low-calorie diets.
Researchers create new sensors that detect proteins and induce blood flow changes, allowing for non-radiative imaging of molecules in the brain. This approach enables detection of biologically low-level molecules and monitoring of dynamic processes in the brain.
A recent study by Duke University researchers has identified a crucial link between autism and pain sensation, suggesting that the SHANK3 protein plays a key role in transmitting pain signals. The findings have significant implications for understanding autism-related sensory problems and developing effective treatments.
Researchers at OHSU discovered a correlation between aquaporin-4 prevalence in brains of older people without Alzheimer's compared to those with the disease. The protein's disorganization in Alzheimer's brains may reflect impaired waste clearance, suggesting it as a potential target for treatment or prevention.
Researchers found that specific changes in neural connections can retain information for short periods, allowing it to be retrieved through noninvasive brain stimulation techniques. The study used TMS to reactivate and strengthen latent memories, demonstrating a dynamic maintenance mechanism under cognitive control.
Researchers used transcranial magnetic stimulation to revive stowed memories, suggesting a separate state of memory apart from active working memory and deep storage. This breakthrough may help individuals control their attention and manage mental health disorders like schizophrenia and depression.
Researchers used high-resolution brain scans and machine learning algorithms to detect concussions in individual patients, achieving an 88% accuracy rate. The approach also predicted the severity of symptoms reported by patients.
A study by Eriko Aiba found that professional musicians' brains process musical information differently, depending on their prioritization strategy. Some prioritize sight and others rely on auditory memory to learn music, leading to the development of efficient learning methods tailored to individual brain strategies.
Researchers found that CRPS patients' brains activate similarly to normal pain when observing movements, suggesting a connection between pain processing and motor control. The study may help develop diagnostics and therapeutic strategies for CRPS patients.
A study of over 105,000 light and heavy social drinkers found a variation in the β-Klotho gene associated with decreased desire for alcohol. The less frequent variant is seen in approximately 40% of participants and is linked to a reduced risk of excessive drinking.
A liver hormone called FGF21 may regulate alcohol drinking by acting directly on a receptor in the brain, according to a new study. The researchers found variations of a gene called β-Klotho that were related to the amount of alcohol people consumed, indicating that this gene may regulate drinking behaviour.
A recent study has identified a link between cerebrospinal fluid volume changes and visual impairment in long-duration space missions. The findings suggest that the increased fluid pressure in microgravity may cause structural changes in the eye, leading to blurry vision and other symptoms.
Researchers find that rapsyn helps ensure optimal positioning and functioning of acetylcholine receptors on muscle cells, enabling precise brain-muscle communication. This discovery provides new insight into diseases like muscular dystrophy and offers potential therapeutic targets.
A new study found that head impacts in high school football players can cause changes in the gray and white matter of their brains. The research used brain imaging exams to measure the effects of repeated head trauma on young athletes.