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Prospective memory key to performance of everyday life activities in multiple sclerosis

Researchers identified deficits in prospective memory as factors affecting performance of everyday life activities in individuals with multiple sclerosis. Time-based tasks showed poorer performance compared to event-based tasks, and were associated with executive function deficits and lower motor scores.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalJournal of the International Neuropsychological Society·DateDec 20, 2019

Statins not associated with memory or cognition decline in elderly, may be protective in some patients

A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found no association between statin use and memory or cognitive decline in elderly patients. Statin users showed similar cognitive performance to never-users, suggesting potential protective effects in this population.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateNov 18, 2019

Your nose knows when it comes to stronger memories

Researchers found that unpleasant odors improve memory for images paired with the bad smell 24 hours later, as well as for related images. Individuals with larger arousal responses had better memory recall. The study suggests that aversive odors can be used to examine emotional learning and memory processes across development.

SourceNew York University·JournalLearning & Memory·DateJun 19, 2019

Like old photographs, memories fade over time

A team of Boston College researchers discovered that memories fade in quality over time, losing vibrancy and visual details. The study found that people report declines in the visual qualities of their memories, akin to applying a filter to edit a picture.

SourceBoston College·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 5, 2019

Remembering to forget

A human neuroimaging study suggests that intentionally redirecting attention away from an unwanted experience during memory formation and suppressing its retrieval once formed can facilitate forgetting. The research provides evidence for a new link between voluntary control of visual attention and long-term memory fate.

How we remember what we read

Researchers discovered brain regions deactivated during successful reading recall, suggesting a mechanism for filtering out irrelevant information and focusing on memory commitment. The findings provide new insight into natural reading processes and the neural basis of successful text encoding.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateOct 22, 2018

When emotional memories intrude, focusing on context could help, study finds

A study by psychologists at the University of Illinois found that focusing on contextual details of emotional memories can improve cognitive performance and reduce negative effects. By shifting focus away from emotion and toward context, individuals can redirect brain resources to tasks and process memories more deeply.

Can surgery and anaesthesia affect memory?

A study of 312 participants who had surgery and 652 participants who did not found that surgery was associated with a decline in immediate memory by one point out of 30 possible test scores. Additionally, reduced working memory decline was linked to longer cumulative operations.

SourceWiley·JournalAnaesthesia·DateFeb 22, 2018

Scientists find clever way to help you de-clutter your home

Researchers found that taking a photo of sentimental items before donating them increases the likelihood of getting rid of clutter. The study suggests this strategy helps people keep memories alive while parting with possessions, benefiting nonprofits and recipients. Participants were more willing to donate items that still held sentim...

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateJun 26, 2017