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.
Researchers at the University of Washington have replicated a direct brain-to-brain connection, allowing them to transmit signals and control hand movements between individuals. The study involved six pairs of participants and achieved accuracy rates ranging from 25 to 83 percent.
Researchers at Georgia State University used the Granger causality test to analyze brain signals and locate seizure sources, improving surgical outcomes for patients. The study found that the test can detect seizures up to 10 seconds earlier than previous methods, leading to a higher cure rate.
The Brain 101 website, developed by Oregon researchers, increased knowledge and attitudes about concussions among students and parents in a study of 12 high schools. The tool, accessible online for free, includes educational resources for coaches, educators, teens, and parents.
Researchers discovered genetic patterns that predict when breast cancers will spread to the brain, offering a potential early detection method. Faulty gene switches in the original tumor may serve as an early warning signal for brain metastasis.
Long-term shift work is associated with impaired brain function, including lower memory and processing speed. Recovery may take at least five years after stopping shift work.
Researchers at UT Dallas' Center for Vital Longevity found that brain networks become less segregated and specialized as we age, leading to poor long-term memory. This study may lead to new clinical diagnostic criteria for age-related memory disorders.
A study of 517 mothers found that nearly 15% had taken recreational drugs during pregnancy, and mothers of babies with brain birth defects were more likely to have used drugs. The study suggests a link between brain birth defects and recreational drug use in expectant mothers.
Researchers at The University of Queensland found that animal brains can use a memory map to estimate location without external cues. Even in complete disorientation, the brain can accurately estimate location by self-motion cues such as walking. The study highlights the importance of understanding how the brain processes spatial infor...
A new single-domain antibody called FC5 has proven able to cross the blood-brain barrier, opening doors to new treatments for brain diseases. This breakthrough technology allows for the delivery of larger molecules into the brain, targeting conditions such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and cancer.
Research from scientists at Washington University School of Medicine found that scratching causes the brain to release serotonin, which intensifies itch sensation. Blocking serotonin's communication with nerve cells may help break the itch-scratch cycle.
A new therapy combining computer-based cognitive training and d-cycloserine has shown promise in helping patients with tinnitus better cope with the condition. The study found that patients who received the treatment experienced greater improvements in daily life compared to those who took a placebo.
Seizures and migraines have long been considered separate events, but a new study reveals a surprising connection between the two. By applying fundamental physics principles to an older theory of brain electricity, researchers found that seizures and spreading depression are part of a spectrum of nerve cell behavior.
A study published in Current Biology found that the brain's response to disgusting images can reliably predict a person's political affiliation. The researchers used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to analyze brain activity while participants viewed neutral, pleasant, and disgusting images.
Researchers developed an EEG test to help diagnose persons at risk of developing mental illness and measure the effectiveness of treatment options. The test measures auditory processing deficits in schizophrenia patients, suggesting potential improvement with cognitive exercises.
Researchers at Virginia Tech describe a new tool called VEIN pulse that uses bipolar pulses to enhance drug delivery to the brain. The technology has shown success in treating brain cancer and other neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease and epilepsy.
A study published in Current Biology found that people's reactions to repulsive images can forecast their political orientation. The strength of a person's reaction was enough to predict an individual's political ideology with high accuracy. This research suggests that neural responses associated with disgust may be inherited and linke...
Two major genetic studies have implicated dozens of genes in autism, affecting communication networks and fundamental biological mechanisms. The research provides a clear path forward for understanding the biology of autism and finding new treatments.
Elderly men with self-reported sleep disturbances are at a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. A 40-year follow-up period revealed that late-life sleep disturbances significantly increase the risk. Regular good sleep habits may support brain health and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers have identified the normal function of the TEM5 protein, which is crucial for embryonic blood vessel development. The findings suggest that TEM5 could be a good target for anticancer drug therapy and potentially improve drug treatment for brain diseases by temporarily disabling the blood-brain barrier.
The Brain & Behavior Research Foundation honored Herbert Pardes with its inaugural Humanitarian Prize for his significant contributions to the field of mental health. The prize recognizes Dr. Pardes' tireless work in education, prevention, treatment, and advocacy, as well as his championing of empathic healthcare.
A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that infants at 7 months old can distinguish between fearful and non-fearful eye expressions, indicating an early ability to detect social cues. This suggests that brain processes for automatic eye recognition develop during infancy.
Researchers discuss the limitations of brain simulations, citing the need to account for individual experience and social context. They also raise concerns about the potential creation of artificial consciousness and the technical challenges of simulating complex biological systems.
A team of researchers has successfully recorded sight neurons in a jumping spider's brain for the first time. The study reveals that jumping spiders use different sets of eyes to process acuity and motion, requiring integration of inputs from multiple eyes in the brain.
A study published in Anales de Psicología found that individuals with a higher vocabulary level had a lower risk of mild cognitive impairment. The research team measured vocabulary levels, years of schooling, and other factors in 326 subjects over 50 to explore the relationship between vocabulary and cognitive reserve.
Researchers at Emory University School of Medicine have identified a protein called urokinase-type plasminogen activator or uPA that helps brain cells recover from injuries induced by loss of blood flow. The study found that treating mice with uPA after an experimental stroke can improve their recovery of motor function.
A recent study at McGill University found that people tend to choose high-calorie foods despite being poor at accurately judging calorie content. The study linked brain activity to the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, which encodes value and predicts immediate consumption.
A team of engineers has created invisible implantable medical sensor arrays that can continuously capture and associate fleeting brain signals with visible brain activity. The transparent sensors have applications in neuroscience, cardiac care, and contact lenses.
The European College of Neuropsychopharmacology awards Dick Swaab with the 2014 ECNP Media Award for his book 'We are our Brains'. The award recognises outstanding contributions to destigmatising disorders of the brain. Swaab's work aims to promote a better understanding of brain function and its impact on mental health.
Research suggests that pathological gamblers have a different response to the brain's opioid system, resulting in reduced feelings of euphoria compared to healthy individuals. This altered response may contribute to the addictive nature of gambling.
New research reveals widespread misconceptions among teachers worldwide about brain function, leading to ineffective teaching practices. The study highlights the importance of collaboration between neuroscientists and educators to improve education.
A study published in PLOS Computational Biology found that vegetative patients may have well-preserved brain networks similar to those of healthy adults, indicating possible covert awareness. This discovery could improve clinical assessment and help identify patients who might be aware despite being uncommunicative.
Researchers at UCL discovered that new myelin must be made each time a skill is learned later in life, and its structure changes during practice. The team found that once a new skill has been learnt, it is retained even after myelin production stops.
Researchers found that eating breakfast, particularly protein-rich meals, increases levels of a brain chemical associated with feelings of reward, which may reduce food cravings and overeating later in the day. This study suggests that incorporating breakfast into daily routines can help prevent obesity.
A study by the Sahlgrenska Academy found that two hours of extra physical activity per week can improve school performance in twelve-year-olds. The results showed a larger proportion of students from schools with extra physical activity achieved national learning goals in all subjects compared to control groups.
The Braak hypothesis suggests that Parkinson's disease begins in the digestive tract and spreads to the brain. Researchers at Lund University have now found direct evidence of this process, tracking the spread of alpha-synuclein protein from the gut to the brain in rat models.
A team of scientists received funding to investigate how neural stem cells vary, which could lead to better treatments for neurological conditions. The study aims to identify molecular differences between types of neural stem cells, shedding light on their behavior and potential therapies.
Investigators from Massachusetts General Hospital developed a novel culture system that reproduces the full course of events underlying Alzheimer's disease. The system confirms the amyloid hypothesis, which suggests that deposition of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain is the first step in a cascade leading to neurodegenerative disease.
Neuroscientists at USC will establish two Centers of Excellence to mine brain data, aiming to identify new treatments for autism, Alzheimer's disease, and mental illness. The $23 million awards total $12 million and $11 million over four years, supporting large-scale analyses that could revolutionize neurological research.
A new study by UCLA researchers demonstrates how maternal inflammation can trigger excessive division of neural stem cells, leading to brain overgrowth and autism-like behavior in offspring. The findings suggest a potential environmental factor contributing to the complex disorder.
A study at Mount Sinai Hospital reveals that a set of molecules linked to insulin signaling in the brain may indicate an increased risk of developing diabetes. The researchers identified a key mechanism by which these molecules affect BCAA breakdown in the liver.
A study published in Neurology found that women with a healthy diet and lifestyle had a 54-percent lower risk of stroke compared to those with none of the five healthy factors. The study looked at factors such as diet, physical activity, and body mass index.
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory scientists discovered that rats and mice exhibit comparable cognitive abilities, particularly in adaptive decision-making tasks. The study's findings suggest that genetic tools for mice could accelerate research on complex behaviors and learning.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have created a prosthetic hand system that allows amputees to discern familiar sensations across their artificial hands. The system, which uses electrical stimulation, has enabled patients to regain control over their prosthetic limbs and even perform tasks like holding grapes in their mou...
Researchers discovered that mice with Fragile X Syndrome exhibit perceptual learning deficits when using their whiskers to navigate through sensory-rich environments. This study may provide an effective model for investigating brain circuitry alterations and testing drugs to improve symptoms in children.
A new study from Brown University pinpoints working memory as a source of learning difficulties in people with schizophrenia. Researchers found that only working memory was impaired in individuals with the condition, highlighting its unique role in making learning more challenging.
Researchers found that exosomes from glial cells increase neuronal stress tolerance and improve signal conduction, biochemical signaling, and gene regulation. This discovery could lead to new strategies for treating neuronal diseases.
UC Berkeley researchers have discovered how our brains merge faces for stability and continuity. By identifying a 'Continuity Field' in facial recognition, they explain why we can't tell the difference between an actor's face and their stunt double's.
Researchers at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute and the University of Maryland School of Medicine have identified a new pathway linking the brain to high blood pressure. The study suggests new approaches for treating hypertension and heart failure, potentially improving patient outcomes.
Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine have identified a new pathway that connects the brain to increased blood pressure, involving the unusual steroid ouabain. This discovery offers potential new approaches for treating high blood pressure and heart failure.
A new study suggests decreased brain connectivity between pain-related and sensorimotor areas may contribute to deficient pain regulation in fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia patients exhibit impaired normal pain perception due to functional decoupling of pain-processing brain regions.
A QUT researcher has developed a new navigation system for robots using computer algorithms that mimic the human eye and rat brain. This technology could improve robotic navigation in complex environments and even help researchers understand spatial memory loss in diseases like Alzheimer's.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that brain activity can predict abstract judgments, such as time reference, even when participants were unaware. The research also sheds light on how images can prompt people to think about the present or future, contributing to our understanding of impulsive behaviors.
Researchers at University of Cincinnati discover that electroencephalography (EEG) electrodes on the scalp can measure spreading depolarizations in injured brains, which are associated with worse outcomes. This non-invasive technique has the potential to revolutionize bedside neuro-monitoring.
Researchers at Salk Institute will create an epigenetic map of each cell type in the brain, allowing for deeper understanding of neurons' identity and functional differences. The study aims to reveal possible windows into brain development and disease.
Four CSHL scientists will conduct research in the Brain Research through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies Initiative, aiming to map the human brain and understand brain disorders. The initiative seeks to develop transformative tools for studying the brain's structure and function.
A nine-month study found that children who engaged in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity after school showed substantial improvements in attention, distraction avoidance, and cognitive flexibility. Brain imaging revealed widespread changes in brain function related to attention allocation and processing speed.
Researchers will merge biophysical and statistical approaches to create detailed computational models of neuronal activity. This could reveal insights into how proteins regulate computations in neurons, potentially shedding light on complex brain diseases.
Researchers found that exercise training induces changes in skeletal muscle that prevent the accumulation of a substance called kynurenine, which is associated with depressive behavior. In contrast, genetically modified mice with well-trained muscle characteristics showed no depressive symptoms despite being exposed to stress.
Researchers at Northwestern University have created the first mouse model for ALS dementia, allowing scientists to directly view the brains of living mice under anesthesia. This breakthrough enables rapid testing and real-time monitoring of test drugs, paving the way for accelerated development of effective therapies.
A new, easy-to-use EEG electrode set was developed to quickly attach on patients, reducing electromagnetic interference and allowing rapid diagnosis of severe brain function abnormalities. The set consists of 16 hydrogel-coated electrodes placed on hair-free areas, making it suitable for emergency care and field conditions.