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.
A study in rats reveals that nicotine exposure temporarily changes the brain's response to alcohol, increasing its reinforcing properties through stress hormones. This finding highlights the mechanisms underlying the link between smoking and alcohol abuse, providing a foundation for developing strategies to mitigate this risk.
UCLA researchers measure brain responses to sexual images in hypersexual individuals, finding that brain response is tied only to level of sexual desire, not severity of hypersexuality. This challenges existing theories of sex 'addiction', suggesting it may be a cluster of problems rather than an addiction.
A University of Maryland-led research team is using brain measurements to study cultural differences in neural-biological processes associated with permissiveness versus restrictiveness. The goal is to advance understanding of group identities, cultural norms, and behavior, and develop tools for better intercultural interaction.
A new study finds that half a billion dollars could be saved annually by using bedside physical exams to identify patients who truly need imaging tests instead of routine head CT scans. Emergency room physicians can confidently diagnose benign inner-ear disorders, freeing up resources for those who need stroke diagnosis.
A new study by Mark Scott suggests that corollary discharge, a predictive brain signal, plays a crucial role in our experiences of internal speech. The findings indicate that the internal copy of our voice produced by corollary discharge can be generated even without external sound, making us believe we hear ourselves speak.
Researchers found that mice lacking the monoamine oxidase A and B enzymes displayed increased fear and generalized phobia to new contexts. This study suggests a correlation between MAO enzyme deficiency and autistic-like features, highlighting potential avenues for developing interventions for neuropsychiatric disorders.
The BrightFocus Foundation has awarded $7.2 million in grants to 53 scientists conducting research on Alzheimer's, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. The funded projects focus on imaging technology, gene therapy, and cell regeneration to better understand disease development and potential new therapies.
Researchers found that infants with later-diagnosed autism had excessive cerebrospinal fluid and enlarged brains, raising the possibility of using these as potential biomarkers. These anomalies were detectable by MRI at 6-9 months and remained elevated between 18-24 months.
Research found that irregular bedtimes in early childhood are associated with lower intellectual performance in reading, maths, and spatial awareness, particularly for girls. The effects of disrupted sleep on brain development and learning are still not fully understood but may have lasting impacts on health throughout life.
Researchers have discovered a biomarker that can track Huntington's disease progression using electrical activity in brain waves. The study found abnormalities in specific frequency bands prior to the onset of symptoms, suggesting a potential early indicator of the disease.
Research suggests that engaging in mentally stimulating activities, such as reading and writing, can help slow down cognitive decline in older adults. The study found that individuals who participated in these activities both early and late in life had a slower rate of memory loss compared to those who did not.
A study found that cerebral aneurysms of all sizes are 12 times more likely to rupture if they grow in size. The researchers observed growth in nearly 18% of asymptomatic cerebral aneurysms and found a strong association between aneurysm growth, initial size, and tobacco smoking.
Studies of early development in fishes reveal a single compartment in the hindbrain controlling vocal and pectoral mechanisms, which may explain why humans use hand gestures when speaking. This neural connection could be key to understanding the evolution of language.
A new UCLA study finds that brain aneurysms of any size can grow and increase the risk of rupture. Tobacco smoking and larger initial aneurysm size are also linked to growth and higher rupture risks.
A new gene therapy treatment has been developed to cure Sanfilippo Syndrome type A in animal models by introducing the sulfamidase enzyme into cells, eliminating glycosaminoglican accumulation and associated neuroinflammation. The treatment has shown promising results in mice and dogs, with improved behavior and life expectancy.
A new eight-week intervention involving Head Start children and their parents produced significant improvements in attention, brain functions, and parental stress. The program's focus on selective attention and positive parenting practices led to improved cognitive abilities and reduced stress levels.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki have found that high doses of famotidine can penetrate the blood-brain barrier and affect the histamine system in the brain. After four weeks of treatment, symptoms of schizophrenia decreased statistically significantly in patients who received famotidine.
A study from Karolinska Institutet found that our imagination can affect how we experience the world, changing our actual perception. The research used illusions to test the impact of mental imagery on sensory perception.
A study in ferrets shows that the brain can adapt to temporary hearing loss by relying on spectral cues from the outer ear. The findings suggest new strategies for rehabilitating children with glue ear and improve hearing aid design.
Researchers found that bullfinches memorize melody sequences in smaller subunits, anticipating the next note sequence when their human partner stops. The study suggests that songbirds have complex brain processes to learn and recall human melodies accurately.
A new class of experimental drugs has shown promise in preventing early memory loss in Alzheimer's disease by targeting a brain enzyme. The compound, MW108, halted memory loss and fixed damaged communication among brain cells in a mouse model of the disease.
Autism Speaks has committed nearly $199 million to research projects aiming to advance understanding of autism causes, prevention, treatment, and cure. The organization supports six translational postdoctoral fellowships focusing on brain studies, sleep patterns, and social cues in individuals with autism.
Researchers found a suite of changes in human shoulders and arms allowed efficient hunting by throwing projectiles, paving the way for later adaptations like increased brain size and migration out of Africa. The study suggests that humans' ability to throw played a key role in becoming part-time carnivores.
Research by Evan MacLean and colleagues found that lemur group sizes positively correlate with performance on tests of social cognition. In contrast, nonsocial cognitive skills were not affected by group size. The study suggests that the evolution of complex social intelligence may be linked to larger social networks.
A study published by Max-Planck-Gesellschaft found that hunger modifies brain pathways and behavior, causing hungry individuals to take more risks. In fruit flies, a specific nerve cell transports carbon dioxide information to the mushroom body, triggering flight responses in hungry but not fed animals.
A study by Kessler Foundation researchers found that brain reserve and cognitive reserve can protect against cognitive decline in multiple sclerosis patients. The research used imaging studies to estimate brain reserve and disease burden in 62 patients, as well as measuring early-life cognitive leisure as a source of cognitive reserve.
Researchers found that people who are blindfolded employ the same strategy to intercept a running ball carrier as people who can see, suggesting multiple areas of the brain cooperate to accomplish the task. The constant target-heading angle strategy allows for effective capture in various situations.
Researchers found that electrical signals in the retina spiked high in response to chocolate, similar to those seen with methylphenidate, indicating increased dopamine release. This technique could be useful for studying food addiction and obesity prevention if validated through additional studies.
A synthetic compound has been discovered to enhance the effects of SSRIs, a commonly prescribed antidepressant. By blocking secondary 'vacuum cleaners' in the brain, the compound increases serotonin levels, offering new potential targets for treating depression. Researchers hope this discovery will lead to more effective treatments.
The study found that the mice had terrible attention spans and struggled with working memory and spatial memory due to the excessive release of acetylcholine. This highlights the importance of ACh in differentiating cues, but also suggests that too much of a good thing can be detrimental
The study examined how Lumosity's dataset can provide insights into the lifestyle correlates of cognitive performance. The second study found that performance on tasks that rely on fluid intelligence decreases with age at a faster rate than those that rely on crystallized intelligence.
A study of over 3000 patients found that those who received rt-PA within six hours of a stroke had fewer problems with self-care and mobility, experienced less pain, and needed less help from others 18 months later. The drug significantly improved life after stroke in the long-term for elderly patients as well.
Researchers found that despite the 'connectedness illusion' affecting perceived targets, participants could accurately plan movements towards actual targets. This indicates a semi-autonomous robot-like system in the brain that plans actions independently of visual perception.
Researchers have identified a new virus, CyCV-VN, in patients with severe brain infections in Vietnam. The virus was found in 28 out of 644 patients, but not in those with non-infectious brain disorders. Further research is needed to determine its role in causing the symptoms.
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed a low-cost fiber-optic pen that tracks brain activity in real-time while children with learning disabilities read and write. The device, which costs less than $100, allows scientists to study the neural connections involved in writing and reading.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University found that mannitol prevents clumps of α-synuclein protein from forming in the brain, a process characteristic of Parkinson's disease. Mannitol has been shown to reduce aggregates of α-synuclein in genetically-altered flies and mice.
A study of over 3 million Danes found that those admitted to hospital with an infection prior to a mood disorder diagnosis had a 62% increased risk of developing the condition. The immune system's impact on brain function may play a role in this connection.
A study found that diet high in saturated fat increased LD αβ levels, while diet low in saturated fat decreased these fractions. The study suggests that lipidation states of apolipoproteins and amyloid peptides may play a role in AD pathological processes.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute in Göttingen have discovered a molecular mechanism that turns neurons into true masters of adaptation. This process, known as short-term plasticity, is crucial for brain functions such as sound localization and mental maths.
Andermann's work aims to understand how hunger affects the brain and its potential consequences for obesity and eating disorders. He will use novel imaging technologies to assess neural responses to food cues.
Researchers discovered a novel fluorescent protein in the freshwater eel that can bind to bilirubin, enabling high sensitivity and accuracy for clinical tests. This breakthrough may contribute to liver function assessment and eel conservation efforts.
Researchers found that people with inherited Alzheimer's disease produce 20% more of a specific form of amyloid beta, known as amyloid beta 42. Additionally, the protein drops out of cerebrospinal fluid more quickly in mutation carriers, suggesting a link to brain amyloid plaques.
A study in Journal of Analytical Psychology reveals internal conflict between the left and right parts of the brain when triggered by 'hot button' words, affecting sense of self and external responses.
A new study on an anti-nicotine vaccination found mixed results, with some patients experiencing a decrease in brain nicotine accumulation but others showing an increase. The study used PET imaging to test the vaccine's effectiveness, revealing that high-affinity antibodies were associated with decreased brain nicotine accumulation.
A study of 97 adolescents born with very low birth weight found a link between smaller brain volumes and poor academic achievement. The research team also discovered that many children with low birth weight did not experience academic deficits, raising questions about early warning signs for intervention.
A new study suggests that suspending humanity through objectification can prevent war crimes, while dehumanizing others evokes disgust and disempathy. By understanding the brain's workings in these situations, researchers aim to develop a more effective military strategy that minimizes harm.
Researchers found that small increases in cardiovascular health scores, even by just one point, significantly reduced the risk of stroke over a five-year period. This study highlights the importance of maintaining good cardiovascular health in preventing strokes.
A new brain imaging study shows that differences in the visual system do not cause dyslexia, but rather are a result of less reading ability. Children with dyslexia made significant gains in reading after receiving intensive tutoring, and their visual system activity increased.
A new surgical technique for deep brain stimulation (DBS) has been developed, allowing for more accurate placement of brain electrodes and reducing complications. The procedure is safer and faster than traditional DBS surgery, making it a promising treatment option for various medical conditions beyond Parkinson's disease.
Johns Hopkins researchers found that our brains don't forget skills by passive decay but instead deliberately select what to retain. This new understanding contradicts previous assumptions about the formation and loss of motor memories.
In a groundbreaking study, researchers successfully controlled a remote-controlled helicopter using non-invasive brain waves. The experiment, published in IOP Publishing's Journal of Neural Engineering, demonstrates the potential for brain-computer interfaces to aid patients with disabilities or neurodegenerative disorders.
A new study found that wider retinal venules are associated with lower IQ scores and cognitive deficits in older adults, even after accounting for health and lifestyle factors. The findings suggest that the processes linking vascular health and cognitive functioning begin much earlier than previously assumed.
Scientists found that lead exposure can trigger schizophrenia-like behaviors and brain structural changes in mice engineered with a human gene for the disease. The study suggests a synergistic effect between lead exposure and a genetic risk factor, opening avenues to better understand complex gene-environment interactions.
A new study finds that bright light therapy can improve sleep quality, reduce daytime sleepiness, and alleviate depressive symptoms in individuals with mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). The treatment also shows changes in brain activation during cognitive tasks, suggesting potential improvements in brain function.
A new formula predicts when brain haemorrhage patients need surgery for the best outcome, helping ensure the right treatment at the right time. This study aims to improve patient survival rates and independence.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet discovered that aspirin-triggered resolvin D1 can prevent and treat postoperative cognitive dysfunctions by resolving inflammation. The study found that treatment with a single dose of AT-RvD1 protected the brain from memory dysfunction after surgery.
Researchers developed a new model that integrates both historical and psychological perspectives on art appreciation. This approach acknowledges the importance of artistic understanding in assessing value and meaning, and can be applied to various forms of art.
Researchers have identified a protein responsible for controlling the growth of gigantic synapses in the auditory part of the brain. These massive synapses allow for rapid signal transmission, outpacing other neuronal circuits by a fraction of a millisecond, enabling humans to pinpoint sound sources with remarkable accuracy.
Researchers suggest targeting APPL protein for new Alzheimer's drugs, as it ensures optimal communication between brain cells. This approach may be more effective than solely focusing on breaking down Amyloid beta.
People with high IQ scores have more selective visual perception, discriminating between small moving objects and larger background motions. This ability helps them efficiently process information in a world filled with distractions.