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Mapping language in the brain

Researchers created a detailed brain map of language impairments in aphasia following stroke, identifying four dimensions or factors: semantic recognition, speech recognition, speech production, and semantic errors. The study found that specific brain areas, such as the left Sylvian fissure and white matter bottleneck, are associated w...

SourceDrexel University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 16, 2015

The backwards brain? Study shows how brain maps develop to help us perceive the world

Scientists at Scripps Research Institute found that moving forward trains the brain to perceive the world normally and calibrates time perception. The study's findings have implications for treating sensory processing disorders like autism and could lead to retraining the brain after stroke or other conditions.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 12, 2014

Navigation and location can occur without external cues

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...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateOct 30, 2014

New MRI technique helps clinicians better predict outcomes following mild traumatic brain injury

A new MRI technique using Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) can help clinicians predict the likelihood of poor clinical outcomes following mild traumatic brain injury. This technique shows significant differences in white matter between mTBI patients with positive versus negative findings on CT and MRI evaluation.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateSep 17, 2014

Zooming in for a safe flight

A new study reveals that bats process complex spatial information by dynamically adapting their brain maps to external factors. By enhancing neuronal signals for objects in close proximity, bats can magnify the appearance of nearby obstacles, enabling them to navigate safely.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 1, 2014

Childhood maltreatment associated with cerebral grey matter abnormalities

A new study reveals that childhood maltreatment is associated with cerebral grey matter abnormalities, leading to lasting changes in brain structure. The research found significant deficits in late-developing brain regions, indicating a potential link between adverse childhood experiences and long-term cognitive and emotional deficits.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateJun 18, 2014

How octopuses don't tie themselves in knots

Researchers discovered that octopuses' suckers temporarily lose grip on their own skin due to a chemical produced by the skin, preventing them from getting tangled. This mechanism allows for flexible manipulation and may inspire bioinspired robot design.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 15, 2014

New Penn index detects early signs of deviation from normal brain development

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a brain development index from MRI scans that captures normal brain maturation patterns. The study shows a relationship between cognitive development and physical changes in the developing young brain, allowing for early detection of subtle developmental abnormalities.

10-year project redraws the map of bird brains

Researchers have created a new map of bird brains based on a decade-long exploration of gene expression across eight species. The findings suggest that bird brains have commonalities with human brains, including columnar organization and forebrain regions similar to mammals.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Comparative Neurology·DateSep 16, 2013

Capturing brain activity with sculpted light

Scientists have developed a high-speed imaging technique with single-neuron resolution that can record the activity of 70% of nerve cells in a worm's head. This breakthrough allows for detailed maps of how neurons are wired up in the brain and information on how networks interact in real time.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Methods·DateSep 9, 2013