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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

Think a census of humans is hard? Try counting their brain cells!

Researchers from Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have published a comprehensive census of cell types in the primary motor cortex of human, mouse, and monkey brains. This milestone could lead to breakthroughs in studying and treating conditions like schizophrenia, depression, Alzheimer's, and traumatic brain injuries.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature·DateOct 6, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Fractal brain networks support complex thought

Researchers used fractal analysis to study brain network patterns while listening to a story. The results show that complex thoughts are reflected in high-order dynamic correlations in neural activity patterns.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 30, 2021

Zebrafish predict the future to avoid virtual danger

Researchers discovered zebrafish neurons that monitor prediction errors to efficiently avoid danger, creating a 'hazard map' in the brain. This study sheds light on brain circuits shared across vertebrates, including humans.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 29, 2021
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.

Scientists find vital link to identify people at risk of aneurysms

A study published in BMJ Open found a significant link between asymmetric brain arteries and the likelihood of developing a cerebral aneurysm. The research suggests that MRI and CT angiograms can be used to screen people with asymmetrical brain arteries for cerebral aneurysms, providing a new tool for monitoring those at risk.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalBMJ Open·TypeObservational study·DateSep 28, 2021

WVU researchers aim to make identifying autism easier via A.I.

Researchers at WVU aim to characterize autism patients' behaviors using behavior-tracking technology. They plan to use artificial intelligence to identify traits associated with ASD, which could lead to more accurate diagnoses and personalized interventions. The study also has the potential to improve early detection in young children.

SourceWest Virginia University·DateSep 23, 2021

Which types of brain activity support conscious experiences?

Brain activity during wakefulness presents large integrated and dynamic network modules, which tend to vanish or fragment during sleep or under general anesthesia. The researchers built artificial time-evolving networks to test and benchmark algorithms for detecting these structures.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalChaos An Interdisciplinary Journal of Nonlinear Science·DateSep 21, 2021
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.

Manic episodes in bipolar disorder linked to abnormal brain changes

Patients with bipolar disorder experiencing manic episodes show abnormal brain changes, including faster cortical thinning, compared to those without episodes. The study also found associations between brain ventricle enlargement and accelerated cognitive decline in bipolar patients.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 16, 2021

The relationship of education and income to brain and cognition varies across groups of people

A large study found that education and income have varying relationships with brain volume and cognitive scores across different populations. The associations were strongest in childhood development, suggesting socioeconomic status may not specifically protect the brain from aging effects.

SourceUniversity of Oslo, Department of Psychology, Center for Lifespan Changes in Brain and Cognition·JournalCerebral Cortex·TypeObservational study·DateSep 10, 2021

NIH expands Alzheimer’s and related dementias centers research network

The National Institute on Aging has expanded its network of cutting-edge Alzheimer's disease and related dementias centers, with two new centers in North Carolina and Texas. The Duke/University of North Carolina ADRC will focus on understanding age-related changes across the lifespan and identifying disparities in dementia among differ...

SourceNIH/National Institute on Aging·DateSep 9, 2021
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Neurons are much smarter than we thought

Researchers at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem have developed a new deep learning artificial infrastructure inspired by individual neurons. Their approach uses complex mathematical modeling to replicate the brain's electrical processes and create more intelligent AI systems.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNeuron·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 6, 2021

Beckman neuroscientists define safe protocol for EEG-fMRI imaging

A team of neuroscientists at the Beckman Institute developed safety standards for multiband EEG-fMRI imaging, reducing heating risks and maintaining data quality. By establishing protocols to mitigate artifacts, they enabled the use of accelerated fMRI sequences with EEG recordings.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 3, 2021

Imaging single spine structural plasticity at the nanoscale level

Scientists have developed a powerful new imaging strategy capable of visualizing the fine, ultrastructural changes to dendritic spines during structural plasticity. They found that the postsynaptic density region underwent significant growth and reorganization on a rapid timescale.

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 3, 2021

New method visualizes blood flow in the brain down to 1 blood cell

Researchers have developed a dye-free method to visualize blood flow in the brain, allowing for detailed mapping of small capillaries and assessing blood flow rates. The technique has potential applications in understanding cardiovascular diseases, tumor growth, and targeted drug delivery.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalThe European Physical Journal Plus·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Altered Functional Brain Network Connectivity Associated with Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress in COVID-19 Survivors, Study Shows

A recent study found COVID-19 survivors exhibit abnormal patterns of brain connectivity associated with increased post-traumatic stress symptoms. The research team discovered three distinct states of functional connectivity in the brains of COVID-19 survivors, which are linked to symptom severity.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalNeurobiology of Stress·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 26, 2021

Overcoming obstacles to promote repair in multiple sclerosis

A new study suggests that existing drugs for multiple sclerosis may not be effective due to toxic blood leaks in the brain. Researchers have identified a promising alternative treatment option that could improve myelin repair, even in the presence of these harmful elements.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalBrain·DateAug 24, 2021
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Correlative chemical imaging directly in neurons

Researchers use super-resolution infrared imaging combined with X-ray fluorescence nano-imaging to study amyloid toxicity on a subcellular level. They found that the distribution of trace elements in neurons is related to molecular mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease, offering new insights into preventing neuronal damage.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateAug 24, 2021

17-year study of children associates poverty with smaller, slower-growing subcortical regions

A 17-year study found that children who experienced poverty in preschool had smaller volumes of certain subcortical brain regions, including the hippocampus and thalamus. The researchers also found that these children showed slower growth in these regions over time, leading to poorer cognitive and behavioral outcomes in adulthood.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·TypeObservational study·DateAug 11, 2021

Epilepsy surgery may improve overall brain health, study finds

Researchers found that epilepsy surgery is associated with improved overall brain health, reducing brain-predicted age by at least seven years in patients with refractory temporal lobe epilepsy. The study used advanced MRI techniques to inform its findings and suggests earlier surgery may benefit these patients.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNeurology·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 10, 2021

To do or not to do: Cracking the code of motivation

Researchers manipulated dopamine receptors to understand benefit- and cost-based motivation, revealing complementary roles for D1R and D2R. The study sheds light on the neurobiological mechanism of decision-making and has implications for psychiatric disorders.

SourceThe National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 6, 2021

How headless hydra feel, react to prodding

Researchers at Rice University have developed a model of how internal states and external stimuli shape the behavior of hydra, a tiny, jellyfish-like creature. By studying their neural networks, scientists can gain insights into fundamental principles that may apply to more complex animals.

SourceRice University·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2021
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Using virtual reality to help students understand the brain's complex systems, NYUAD researchers demonstrate effectiveness of 3D visualization as a learning tool

Researchers from NYUAD and University of Wisconsin-Madison develop interactive 3D diagrams to teach functional neuroanatomy. The study shows that VR exceeded PC viewing for experience-based learning outcomes, making it an enjoyable and easier learning tool.

SourceNew York University·JournalTranslational Issues in Psychological Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2021

Chronic pain might impact how the brain processes emotions

A new study found that people with chronic pain have lower levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate emotions, leading to increased negative emotions and impaired emotional regulation. The researchers hope their online emotional recovery program may provide a non-pharmaceutical solution for those affected.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalEuropean Journal of Pain·TypeObservational study·DateJul 26, 2021

Noninvasive, label-free optical method visualizes deep, cellular brain disease in vivo

Scientists developed a label-free optical microscopy approach that can image deep brain cells with high resolution and minimal invasiveness. They used the 1700 nm water absorption window to visualize neuronal cell architecture across the entire depth of the mouse neocortex, revealing severe pathology in deep but not superficial cortex.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateJul 16, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Mouse brain imaged from the microscopic to the macroscopic level

Scientists have imaged an entire mouse brain at the microscopic to macroscopic level using a new micro-CT approach. This technique bridges the resolution gap between MRI and electron microscopy, enabling the connection of biomarkers across multiple scales and improving image resolution.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNeuroImage·DateJun 28, 2021

How brain cells compensate for damage from a stroke

Researchers found that undamaged neurons do not change their function after a stroke, contradicting the 're-mapping' hypothesis. Surround-responsive cells, which react to neighboring whiskers, also failed to take over damaged neurons' functions.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 25, 2021

Investigators examine brain tests of patients with COVID-19

Researchers analyzed brain scans of 193 COVID-19 patients, finding a link between brain imaging and the virus's presence in cerebrospinal fluid. The study suggests hyperintense lesions and leptomeningeal enhancement are indicative of inflammation rather than infection.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Neuroimaging·DateJun 9, 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.

Scientists say active early learning shapes the adult brain

Researchers used structural brain imaging to detect developmental effects of linguistic and cognitive stimulation on infant brains. They found that high-quality educational experiences in early childhood were associated with increased brain size, particularly in males.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalJournal of Cognitive Neuroscience·DateJun 1, 2021
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.

Food for thought: New maps reveal how brains are kept nourished

Scientists have created detailed maps of brain blood vessel clusters, revealing that small blood vessels compensate for varying energy requirements. The study provides novel insights into the distribution of oxygen and sugar to different brain regions, shedding light on how brains are kept nourished.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNeuron·DateMar 2, 2021

Child brain tumors can be classified by advanced imaging and AI

A UK-based study using diffusion weighted imaging and machine learning successfully classified common types of pediatric brain tumors, enabling faster and more accurate diagnosis. This non-invasive method has the potential to treat childhood brain tumors more efficiently with favorable outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 15, 2021

BU researcher awarded NIH grant for brain imaging study

Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine are developing a novel brain imaging technique to detect chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in living patients. A two-year study involving former NFL players and controls aims to identify the tau protein associated with CTE using a second-generation tau PET tracer.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateJan 19, 2021

USC study measures brain volume differences in people with HIV

Researchers analyzed MRI data from 1203 HIV-positive individuals across 5 continents, finding smaller brain volumes associated with lower white blood cell counts. The study highlights the importance of understanding how HIV infection affects the brain, particularly in the context of aging and treatment.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 15, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Effects of head trauma from intimate partner violence largely unrecognized

Research estimates that one in three women experience intimate partner violence and up to 90% suffer head trauma. However, data is scarce on the cognitive and psychological effects of this trauma. A new international effort aims to understand the ramifications of injuries and develop personalized treatment strategies.

SourceRutgers University·JournalBrain Imaging and Behavior·DateJan 14, 2021
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Adaptive Image Receive (AIR) coil from GE shows promise for whole-brain imaging

A prototype 16-channel head AIR coil from GE Healthcare has been shown to perform better than a conventional 8-channel head coil for in vivo whole-brain imaging, but not as well as a 32-channel coil. The coil's lightweight and flexible design exhibits improved electrical characteristics that could lead to future design improvements.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateDec 3, 2020
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Post-COVID pain or weakness? Request an ultrasound or MRI

A Northwestern University study shows how advanced imaging technology can pinpoint the cause of nerve damage in COVID-19 patients. The imaging techniques include ultra-high-resolution ultrasound and MR neurography, which help localize where the problem is and assess the severity of nerve damage.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalRadiology·DateDec 1, 2020

Researchers develop low-cost, portable brain imaging scanner

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have created a compact, low-power 'head only' MRI scanner for brain imaging. The device can be mounted in ambulances or clinics and emits less noise than traditional scanners.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateNov 24, 2020
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Leap forward for brain research

A new brain imaging technology, BrainPhys, has been developed to support optimal neuronal function and viability in live imaging experiments. This breakthrough could lead to better personalised medicine for brain disorders such as Parkinson's, brain cancer, and childhood dementia.

SourceFlinders University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 3, 2020

Brain effects of repetitive low-level occupational blast exposure

Military personnel with extensive occupational blast exposure showed significant differences in brain imaging measures, including increased cortical thickness and neural inflammation. The study provides insight into the functional and structural neuroimaging alterations occurring in this population.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateNov 3, 2020

What EEGs tell us about COVID-19 and the brain

Research identifies commonalities in COVID-19 patients' brain activity, highlighting potential long-term effects on older males. Abnormal EEG readings suggest permanent brain damage, prompting the need for comprehensive care including brain imaging.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalSeizure·DateOct 27, 2020