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World first: Researchers identify specific regions of the brain that are damaged by high blood pressure and are involved in a decline in mental processes and dementia

High blood pressure damages specific brain regions, including the putamen and white matter areas, leading to cognitive decline and increased risk of dementia. The study uses a combination of MRI, genetic analyses, and observational data to identify these affected regions.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeObservational study·DateMar 27, 2023

New BU study finds tackle football at young age raises risk for brain decline later

A new Boston University study suggests that repetitive blows to the head in tackle football may lead to less white matter in the brain, potentially causing impulsive behavior and other cognitive issues. Researchers found players who start playing at a young age or play for over 11 years are at greater risk.

SourceBoston University·JournalBrain Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 20, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Poor oral health may contribute to declines in brain health

Research suggests that poor oral health may contribute to declines in brain function and cognitive abilities. A recent study analyzed the relationship between oral health and brain health among approximately 40,000 adults and found a potential link between gum disease and white matter hyperintensities.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 2, 2023
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Most detailed map of brain’s memory hub finds connectivity puzzle

Researchers created a detailed map of the hippocampus's connections to the rest of the brain, finding fewer links with frontal lobes but more with visual networks. This discovery may change how we think about human memory and cognition, potentially shedding light on why some primates excel at certain memory tasks.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournaleLife·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 8, 2022

New view on the brain: It’s all in the connections

Researchers propose a new network approach to understand brain function, suggesting that connections between brain regions are key to cognitive tasks. This new view also sheds light on individual variability and can be applied to predict symptoms in patients with brain lesions.

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalScience·DateNov 3, 2022
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Study findings suggest association between exposure to air pollution -- particularly in the first 5 years of life -- and alterations in brain structure

A study found an association between air pollution exposure during pregnancy and the first 5 years of life with altered white matter structural connectivity in children's brains. Exposure to fine particulate matter was also linked to changes in brain volume, particularly in preadolescents.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 22, 2022

Keys to keeping your brain healthy

A recent study highlights the importance of physical exercise, social relationships, and passion in maintaining brain health. By adopting these three factors, individuals can improve their cognitive function and reduce the risk of age-related decline.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalBrain Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 22, 2022
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Microscopic blood vessel disease in the brain’s white matter associated with worse cognition in Alzheimer’s

Researchers found that microscopic blood vessel disease in the brain's white matter is associated with worse cognitive function and memory deficits in individuals with Alzheimer's. Lifestyle changes such as reducing hypertension, obesity, diabetes, and inactivity may help prevent or slow disease progression.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalGeroScience·DateAug 2, 2022

How preschoolers’ brains develop self-control

Research finds that preschoolers' brain maturation improves inhibitory control abilities, with 4-year-olds outperforming 3-year-olds in tasks requiring stopping actions. The cognitive control network's distinct regions and white matter connections are associated with different aspects of self-control development.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournalJNeurosci·TypeObservational study·DateJul 11, 2022

Study finds women have more brain changes after menopause

A study published in Neurology found that postmenopausal women have more white matter hyperintensities than premenopausal women or men of the same age. Researchers also discovered that menopause accelerates the increase in brain biomarkers, which may be linked to an increased risk of stroke, Alzheimer's disease, and cognitive decline.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJun 29, 2022

Concussion symptoms in children may have multiple underlying causes

A new study by McGill University researchers has shed light on the complex relationships between concussion symptoms and brain damage in children. The findings suggest that certain combinations of brain injury can lead to specific symptoms, such as attention difficulties and sleep problems.

SourceMcGill University·JournaleLife·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 17, 2022
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Blood adenosine levels as a potential biomarker of white matter disease in a selected population of very low birth weight premature infants

A study found that high blood adenosine levels at 15 days of life correlated with white matter lesions and brain injury in very low birth weight premature infants. Adenosine may play a role in oligodendrocyte maturation and neuronal development, suggesting its potential as a biomarker for complications of prematurity.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Pediatric Reviews·DateMay 13, 2022

Association of subjective memory complaints with structural brain abnormalities, cognitive decline among older adults

Researchers found a strong association between subjective memory complaints and larger white matter hyperintensity volumes, indicating abnormal brain structure. The study also showed faster cognitive decline among those with subjective memory complaints, highlighting their importance as an early sign of cognitive impairment.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 15, 2022

Early adulthood blood pressure trajectories, brain health in midlife

Researchers investigated the association between early adulthood blood pressure trajectories and brain health in midlife, including gray and white matter volume and cerebral blood flow. The study found that individuals with higher systolic blood pressure during young adulthood had lower gray matter volume at midlife.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 10, 2022

Public administration should consider effects of whiteness, masculinity, as well as representation, researchers say

New research from the University of Kansas suggests that representative bureaucracy is a positive step, but the neutral effects of white male overrepresentation need further understanding. The study argues that acknowledging the value of diverse perspectives can improve outcomes for all members of a community.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalPublic Administration Review·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 17, 2022

White matter microstructure reveals developmental risk for psychosis

A new study found that white matter structural tracts are relatively stable throughout typical development, but show increased instability in children with psychosis spectrum symptoms. The integrity of these tracts was lower in children with psychosis and associated with cognitive function.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 22, 2021
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Fast-tracked stroke drug for humans shows promise, in mice, that it might also prove a powerful tool against dementia

A new study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine showed that a fast-tracked stroke drug, 3K3A-APC, protected mice from injury to the brain's white matter, a leading cause of dementia. The drug may also be effective in slowing down progression of cognitive impairment.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2021

Promising treatment for Alexander disease moves from rat model to human clinical trials

A new study provides preliminary data for a human clinical trial of a treatment that targets the root cause of Alexander disease. The treatment has shown promising results in halting the progression of the disease and even reversing some symptoms in rat models, which better represent the human condition.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 18, 2021
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Elucidating the brain's white matter

Researchers at Hebrew University developed a novel approach to mapping brain white matter fiber architecture using Nissl staining. The technique, called Nissl-ST, reveals the hidden patterns and organization of glial cells in white matter, opening new avenues for studying brain development, aging, and neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalScience·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 7, 2021

Brain structure in premature babies linked to emotional processing in preschool

New research published in eNeuro found that premature babies' brain connections at birth can predict their future emotional and social development. The study discovered a link between the strength of the uncinate fasciculus, a white matter tract involved in emotional regulation, and emotion moderation skills in preschoolers.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateAug 9, 2021

Professional rugby may be associated with changes in brain structure

A study of 44 elite rugby players found significant changes in white matter and volume over time. The research suggests that professional rugby participation may be associated with structural changes in the brain that could have long-term implications for player health.

SourceImperial College London·JournalBrain Communications·DateJul 22, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

How learning Braille changes brain structure over time

A new study reveals that learning Braille changes the brain's white matter, with somatosensory and visual cortices strengthening connections at varied rates. The research found that white matter in both regions underwent significant reorganization, with notable differences in timing and extent.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateJul 12, 2021

How HIV infection shrinks the brain's white matter

Researchers found that HIV prevents oligodendrocytes from maturing, reducing myelin production. The virus secretes glutamate, which activates the integrated stress response, further disrupting cell development.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalGlia·DateJun 2, 2021

Researchers discover oligodendrocyte loss and subtype alteration in CTE brains

A study by Boston University School of Medicine researchers has identified significant alterations in white matter, including loss of oligodendrocytes and changes to oligodendroglial subtypes, in CTE brains. These findings may lead to new treatments for the progressive brain disease associated with repetitive head trauma.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateMay 24, 2021

Novel immunotherapy boosts long-term stroke recovery in mice

Researchers discovered that a population of regulatory T cells serve as tissue repair engineers to promote functional recovery after stroke. Boosting these cells improved behavioral and cognitive functions in mice for weeks after a stroke, pointing to potential immunotherapy.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalImmunity·DateMay 19, 2021

Advances in medical imaging enable visualization of white matter tracts in fetuses

Researchers visualized and studied white matter pathways in human brains developing in the womb using advanced medical imaging. The study provides a detailed understanding of normal developmental trajectories of white matter tracts, which will help inform treatment strategies for diseases affecting preterm infants.

SourceKing's College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 12, 2021
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

White matter structural hubs and cognitive impairment

Damage to densely-packed white matter regions is strongly associated with cognitive impairment compared to gray matter regions; this suggests that white matter hubs are crucial for cognition. The study's findings provide insights into how brain damage affects cognitive abilities and may help explain differences in cognitive decline.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 3, 2021

COVID-19 associated with leukoencephalopathy on brain MRI

According to a study published in American Journal of Roentgenology, COVID-19 is associated with leukoencephalopathy on brain MRI. The condition, known as CRDL, can cause extensive white matter lesions and microhemorrhages, highlighting the importance of considering it in patients with neurologic manifestations of coronavirus disease.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateFeb 17, 2021

White matter changes in brain found in frontotemporal dementia

Researchers discovered white matter hyperintensities are more common and severe in people with frontotemporal dementia compared to Alzheimer's disease and healthy controls. The study suggests these changes contribute to cognitive problems rather than vascular factors.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 17, 2021
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Musicians have more connected brains than non-musicians

Research finds musicians have stronger brain connections compared to non-musicians, with younger start dates showing more significant differences. Musicians with absolute pitch also exhibit enhanced auditory region activity and white matter connections.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateJan 25, 2021

Noninvasive way to explore traumatic brain injuries

Researchers have developed a noninvasive method to measure the stiffness of tissues within the brain's gray and white matter, which can reveal clues about traumatic brain injuries. The new technique, known as waveguide elastography, merges acoustic imaging methods and algorithms to provide diagnostic insights.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 9, 2020

Psychosis symptoms linked to impaired information spread in the brain

Research suggests that psychosis symptoms may be linked to impaired information spread in the brain, with altered white matter contributing to delusions and other symptoms. The study found increased consciousness thresholds in patients with psychosis, correlating with greater white matter connectivity.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateNov 23, 2020

Early details of brain damage in COVID-19 patients

A study using spectroscopic imaging found COVID-19 patients with neurological symptoms exhibit similar metabolic disturbances in the brain as those with hypoxia from other causes. However, there are also distinct differences, including elevated metabolites such as lactate and myo-inositol.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Neuroradiology·DateNov 18, 2020
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

'White matter lesion' mapping tool identifies early signs of dementia

A new mapping tool for analyzing tissue damage seen on MRI brain scans accurately detects early signs of cognitive decline, correlating with worsening dementia and other brain-damaging conditions. The tool offers a standardized method for calculating the volume and location of white matter lesions in the brain.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalAcademic Radiology·DateOct 27, 2020

What lies between grey and white in the brain

A multidisciplinary team has successfully visualized superficial white matter in living human brains using high-field MRI. The study reveals that this region contains significant amounts of iron, necessary for myelination, which can occur throughout lifespan but is predominant during development.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 19, 2020

Acid reflux drug could help newborn babies recover from brain injury, study suggests

Researchers discovered a potential way to prevent long-lasting brain damage in newborn children by targeting the histamine H2 receptor. A protein known as the histamine H2 receptor inhibits the formation of mature oligodendrocytes, leading to improved recovery from hypoxia-ischemia in mice treated with cimetidine.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateSep 29, 2020
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Enriching newborns' environment in the right way helps heal young, injured brains

A new study found that an enriched environment with physical activity, socialization, and cognitive stimulation helps heal young, injured brains in premature newborns. The study suggests that recovery of the brain's white matter requires a combination of all experimental interventions, not just a single one.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 19, 2020

Blood test identifies risk of disease linked to stroke and dementia

A UCLA-led study found that six blood proteins can be used to gauge a person's risk for cerebral small vessel disease, which affects an estimated 11 million older adults in the U.S. The test correlates with white matter changes in the brain and provides a more quantitative scale for evaluating the disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 3, 2020

Are bigger brains better?

A larger hippocampus may not guarantee better memory in older adults, with a new study highlighting the significance of its white matter connectivity. The research analyzed over 330 participants and found that faster learning was only seen in those with both a larger hippocampus and uniform white matter structure.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateJan 16, 2020

Smoking may cause white scars on the brain

A new study reveals that scarring in the brain's white matter can affect not only the surrounding areas but also distant parts of the brain. Research by Asta Håberg found that smoking and high blood pressure increase the risk of developing these scars, which can lead to a higher risk of dementia and stroke.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNeuroImage·DateNov 29, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

The fast and the curious: Fitter adults have fitter brains

A large study found that physical fitness is associated with improved cognitive ability and healthy white matter in the brain of young adults. The research used a publicly available database of 1206 MRI brain scans from the Human Connectome Project.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 9, 2019

The Lancet Neurology: High blood pressure and rising blood pressure between ages 36-53 are associated with smaller brain volume and white matter lesions in later years

A study of 502 individuals found that high blood pressure and increasing blood pressure during midlife are associated with reduced brain volume and white matter lesions in later life. However, there is no evidence that these associations are linked to cognitive decline or the build-up of beta-amyloid plaques.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateAug 20, 2019

Intensive blood pressure control may slow age-related brain damage

Researchers found that intensively controlling blood pressure was more effective at slowing the accumulation of white matter lesions than standard treatment. This is encouraging for advancing the science of understanding and addressing aging brain diseases such as Alzheimer's and related dementias.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalJAMA·DateAug 13, 2019
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.