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 have uncovered details on the brain and nasal passages of a 72 million-year-old armoured dinosaur Euoplocephalus. The team found that it had good senses of smell and hearing, and may have generated sound through its looping nasal passages to communicate.
A University of Adelaide study found that an immune response in the brain contributes to how people respond to alcohol, influencing behavioral changes such as difficulty walking or talking. Blocking toll-like receptors may help reduce these effects and potentially treat alcohol dependence.
Researchers at the University of Houston have found a connection between borderline personality disorder and hypermentalizing in adolescents, which can lead to emotional regulation challenges. The study's findings suggest that early intervention and treatment can improve strategies for managing BPD symptoms.
Researchers used fMRI to compare brain activation patterns of poor readers with and without low IQs. Both groups showed reduced activations in left inferior parietal lobule and fusiform gyrus, indicating impaired phonological processing. This study provides biological evidence against using IQ to diagnose dyslexia.
A Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center research team found that activation of synaptic NMDRs increases COX-2 levels, while extrasynaptic NMDR activation boosts arachidonic acid. Sequential activation of both receptors leads to increased neurotoxic inflammation and disease progression.
A new study found that blocking Toll-like receptors reduces the effects of alcohol on the brain, which could lead to treatments for alcohol dependence and acute overdoses. This shift in understanding may help identify individuals at risk of brain damage after long-term drinking.
Researchers found that kibra protein is essential for regulating brain circuitry and learning, leading to impaired memory in mice lacking the protein. The study suggests that kibra plays a crucial role in shaping brain connections during learning and memory formation.
The ACCORD MIND study found that intensive glucose-lowering strategies offer no additional benefit in preventing cognitive decline in people with type 2 diabetes. Despite lower brain volumes, the increased risk of dying and other complications outweighed any potential benefits.
Researchers at Rush University Medical Center found a link between low vitamin B12 levels and reduced brain volumes in older adults. Cognitive tests revealed lower scores among participants with high vitamin B12 deficiency markers.
A study found that low vitamin B12 levels may lead to brain cell loss and cognitive decline in older people. Vitamin B12 deficiency was associated with lower scores on cognitive tests and smaller total brain volume.
UC Berkeley researchers successfully decoded and reconstructed people's dynamic visual experiences by watching Hollywood movie trailers. The breakthrough technology can eventually be used to understand what goes on in the minds of stroke victims or coma patients, as well as enable brain-machine interfaces for people with cerebral palsy.
A Johns Hopkins team discovered that MRI's strong magnet pushes on fluid in the inner ear's balance organ, leading to vertigo. This finding may affect results of functional MRI studies and could lead to a non-invasive method for diagnosing balance disorders.
A study in worms has yielded clues about how nerves grow by identifying the molecular mechanisms that prompt dendrite development. The QBI team discovered that a ligand and receptor work together to coax certain neurons to extend dendrites towards their targets.
Kansas researchers found that enriched infant formulas fortified with long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) are beneficial for developing brains and hearts. Infants fed these formulas showed improved cognitive advancement and lower heart rates compared to those without LCPUFA.
A comprehensive analysis of medical outcomes research found that few brain aneurysm patients receive specialized care at high-volume stroke centers. Patients who receive care in experienced centers are more likely to have definitive repair and good recovery.
A Princeton University study found that people are more likely to yawn in winter than summer due to ambient temperatures. The researchers believe that yawning could serve as a method for regulating brain temperature.
Scientists have found that nanoparticles can cause brain injury in fish, leading to the formation of vacuoles and nerve cell death. The results may influence policy regulations on environmental protection and human safety.
Bertil Fredholm received the 2011 ECNP Neuropsychopharmacology Award for his groundbreaking research on brain adenosine. His work has led to a better understanding of CNS mechanisms in health and disease, with potential applications in treating conditions such as Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, and neuropathic pain.
Scientists discovered a previously unknown compensatory pathway that protects the brain and organs from genetic and environmental threats. The NMD pathway is vulnerable to insults, but human cells have evolved a way to overcome attacks by sending reinforcement molecules to compensate for losses.
Researchers reconstructed the evolutionary history of molluscs using genomics and computational approaches. They found that complex brain formation in mollusks occurred independently at least four times, with surprising outcomes such as cephalopods being an early branch.
The study found that brain patterns from objects can be used to decipher scene patterns, providing a new insight into how the brain processes surroundings. This discovery could lead to improved treatment strategies for patients with brain injuries affecting scene recognition.
A study of 74 musicians and 89 non-musicians found that being a musician can delay age-related decline in central auditory processing, allowing older musicians to understand speech in noisy environments as well as younger non-musicians. This advantage was particularly pronounced for older musicians.
A recent study has found a significant link between high cholesterol levels and the presence of brain plaques associated with Alzheimer's disease. Researchers tested 2,587 people aged 40-79 and found that those with high cholesterol had significantly more brain plaques than those with normal or lower cholesterol levels.
A retrospective study of 17,872 patients found no association between statin use and increased risk of intracerebral hemorrhage after ischemic stroke. The study's results contradict previous findings and suggest that current treatment guidelines recommending statin therapy for most patients with a history of ischemic stroke may be safe.
Researchers from Boston Medical Center will study neurological and brain abnormalities in former extremely low gestational age newborns (ELGANS) with a $13 million NIH grant. The study aims to identify infants at high risk for neurodevelopmental disorders and establish a method for prophylactic interventions.
A new study reveals that infants' brain networks mature enough to identify pain distinct from touch around 35-37 weeks gestation. This finding may impact treatment and development of premature newborns, who can exhibit altered pain behavior due to excessive noxious input during neonatal care.
A series of papers on Australopithecus sediba reveals a surprisingly unique combination of advanced features, including a modern pelvis and evolved hand. The findings suggest that Au.sediba is the best candidate for the genus Homo.
A new X-ray scan has provided the highest resolution and most accurate image of an early human ancestor's brain case. The study challenges previous models of brain evolution by revealing a surprisingly small brain volume and a mix of characteristics that resemble both humans and chimpanzees.
Researchers found that babies' brain activity changes from non-specific 'neuronal bursts' to localized activity in specific areas of the brain, indicating they can perceive painful stimulation as separate from touch. This shift may occur around 35-37 weeks gestation.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes have discovered how dopamine levels affect brain cells involved in movement control, offering new hope for treating Parkinson's disease. A study found that a lack of dopamine alters the interaction between two groups of brain cells, leading to difficulties controlling movement.
A study published in Science magazine has found significant transitional fossils that support the evolutionary link between Australopiths and Homo. The discovery, led by Texas A&M University researcher Darryl de Ruiter, provides key insights into human development and evolution.
A new study identifies a novel link between neuroinflammation and Alzheimer's disease pathology, revealing that an inflammatory mediator enhances A² protein plaque formation. The research also highlights the potential therapeutic target of NOS2 inhibition for treating AD.
Patients with narrowed brain arteries who received intensive medical treatment had fewer strokes and deaths than those who received a brain stent. Medical management was found to be the most effective treatment option for preventing stroke prevention.
In a large nationwide clinical trial, intensive medical treatment reduced strokes and deaths by 70% compared to brain stent placement in high-risk patients. The study found no benefit from stenting, suggesting it may dislodge unstable plaque in arteries.
A recent brain stent study found aggressive medical treatment without stenting may be better for high-risk stroke patients, but experts at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center believe the procedure is appropriate for certain patients who haven't responded to medication. The study's limitations and exclusions have raised concerns among researchers.
A large clinical trial found that intensive medical treatment reduced strokes and deaths by 50% compared to brain stenting in high-risk patients. The study, SAMMPRIS, showed that aggressive management of risk factors and lifestyle changes can significantly impact stroke prevention.
The Wellcome Trust report highlights progress in human functional brain imaging, including breakthroughs in statistical and computational modeling. The review emphasizes the need for continued funding and collaborations to translate findings into clinical applications.
A landmark study reveals that mental disorders have become Europe's largest health challenge, affecting 514 million people. The study highlights a significant treatment gap and calls for increased funding and improved care to address the critical challenges facing mental and neurological disorders.
Researchers discovered microscopic lesions in 30% of brains without diagnosed brain disease or stroke, linking small vessel disease to age-related decline. The study highlights the need for new diagnostic tools to capture these undetected cases and potentially mitigate their impact.
A new study from the University of Missouri found that alcohol impairs a person's ability to monitor their own behavior and make adjustments accordingly. The study showed that while alcohol reduces self-control, it does not necessarily decrease awareness of mistakes.
A study found that microscopic lesions in 30% of older brains without diagnosed disease could cause common signs of aging, such as slower walking and balance issues. The researchers suggest that undiagnosed small vessel disease needs additional tools for detection.
Researchers found that Alzheimer's brains consistently show lower levels of ubiquilin-1, a chaperone protein that helps regulate amyloid precursor protein (APP). Lower ubiquilin-1 levels disrupt APP folding and lead to the formation of toxic aggregates.
Research reveals that four basic tastes are processed by distinct areas of the brain, with unique taste receptors and neurons arranging discretely in a gustotopic map. This discovery sheds light on how our brains represent the last of the classical five senses.
Researchers at Princeton University have matched brain activity with categories of words related to abstract ideas. The study reveals how the brain processes complex thoughts and identifies 'semantic threads' connecting related concepts.
A new study found that bilingual babies' brains remain flexible to languages for a longer period, possibly due to greater exposure to speech sounds at home. Bilingual infants also produced more words in the dominant language, while monolinguals lagged behind.
Researchers have imaged individual cancer cells and their routes as they spread in a mouse model of glioblastoma multiforme. The novel cryo-imaging technique provides unprecedented insights into how tumor cells invade and disperse.
Researchers found that trial-and-error learning benefits older brains more than errorless learning in certain conceptual tasks. Older adults outperformed younger peers in memory tests when learning through trial-and-error., This challenges the long-held assumption that making mistakes hurts memory performance for older adults.
A study using advanced brain imaging techniques found that 33% of participants had high levels of amyloid-beta deposits, indicating an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease. The study also discovered a link between these deposits and changes in brain metabolites, which may help identify people at risk for the condition.
Scientists at UCSF have discovered two distinct pools of vesicles in neurons, each with unique proteins that determine their behavior. The finding sheds new light on neurotransmitter packaging, transport, and release from neurons, potentially leading to breakthroughs in treating neurological diseases like Parkinson's.
Research reveals that depression-related rumination is associated with a brain network imbalance, where the default mode network (DMN) dominates over the task-positive network (TPN). This imbalance leads to maladaptive thinking and less effective coping mechanisms, exacerbating depressive symptoms.
A study found that older adults consuming high amounts of sodium in their diet, coupled with low physical activity, are at a greater risk of cognitive decline. Researchers discovered that low-sodium intake combined with moderate exercise levels can mitigate this risk.
The University of Kentucky Sanders-Brown Center on Aging is receiving over $7 million from the National Institute on Aging to continue its research and clinical initiatives focused on treating Alzheimer's disease. The funding will support ongoing programs, including telemedicine services, brain donation, and outreach efforts.
Scientists have discovered a new binding site on the most common subtype of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, which could lead to the development of better medicines for psychiatric disorders. The findings challenge existing scientific ideas and provide a general mechanism that applies across the receptor family.
Research at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory reveals that fruit flies' mushroom body neurons represent odors in a consistently sparse fashion, with patterns of firing being randomly distributed within the brain area. This finding suggests that the fly's brain uses sparsity to form accurate memories.
A team of researchers used advanced imaging techniques to study a 400 million-year-old fossilized jawless fish. They found evidence that the brain of early vertebrates was reorganized before the development of jaws, providing new insights into the evolutionary history of vertebrates.
Researchers found that bumblebees significantly reduced flight distances by learning and memorizing individual flower locations, prioritizing the shortest route. This innovative approach demonstrates that bees can solve complex routing problems without a sophisticated cognitive representation of space.
Engineers create epidermal electronic systems (EES) with miniature sensors, light-emitting diodes, tiny transmitters and receivers to measure human physiological data. The devices are seamlessly integrated onto the skin, providing opportunities for non-invasive medical monitoring.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Engineering used new measurement technologies and analytical mathematics to study the neurological explanations for movement planning. They found that neural activity varies depending on direction, distance, and speed of a pending movement, departing from previous theories.
Patients with advanced Parkinson's disease who received deep brain stimulation implants showed sustained motor function improvement, including reduced tremors and rigidity, even after 10 years. However, axial signs such as posture and balance progressively declined over time.
Scientists have found a heat-detecting molecule called TRPV1 on the noses of vampire bats, which helps guide their bites to veins. This discovery highlights how small genetic changes can lead to major evolutionary adaptations.