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Neuroscientists reverse memories' emotional associations

Researchers discovered the brain circuit that links feelings to memories and found it possible to reverse emotional associations using optogenetics. This finding could lead to new treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder by strengthening positive memory associations.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateAug 27, 2014
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Dartmouth study demonstrates key brain region in contextual memories

A recent study by Dartmouth researchers reveals that the retrosplenial cortex plays a critical role in forming contextual memories, which enable us to recall events along with their associated physical locations. This breakthrough finding has significant implications for understanding memory-related illnesses such as Alzheimer's disease.

SourceDartmouth College·DateAug 12, 2014

Sleep deprivation may increase susceptibility to false memories

Research found that sleep-deprived individuals who viewed photos of a crime and then read false information were more likely to report remembering the false details. The study suggests that chronic sleep deprivation may increase susceptibility to false memories, with implications for eyewitness reliability.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 23, 2014

DARPA awards UCLA $15 million to restore lost memory

A team of experts at UCLA will collaborate to create, implant, and test a memory prosthesis to help restore lost memory functions in brain-injured individuals. The project aims to stimulate the entorhinal area, a key region involved in learning, memory, and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·DateJul 9, 2014
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

It's the last bite that keeps you coming back for more

Research by Emily Garbinsky and colleagues reveals that memories for the last bites of a food drive decisions about when to eat it again. Smaller portion sizes lead to faster repeat consumption. The findings have implications for companies and consumers, suggesting strategies like thinking back to initial bites could encourage re-purch...

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 11, 2014

Key protein, FABP5, enhances memory and learning

Researchers discovered that fatty acid binding protein 5 (FABP5) enhances cognitive function and improves learning and memory functions in the brain's hippocampus region. FABP5 deficiency impairs learning and memory, suggesting potential therapeutic applications for cognitive dysfunction.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMay 2, 2014

Extreme sleep durations may affect brain health in later life

A new study from Brigham and Women's Hospital suggests that extreme sleep durations may affect brain health in later life. Women who slept five or fewer hours or nine or more hours per day had worse memory than those sleeping seven hours a day.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMay 1, 2014
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

New study suggests a better way to deal with bad memories

Researchers found that thinking about non-emotional contextual details of a memory can alleviate the negative effects of these memories. This strategy, known as focusing on context, is a promising alternative to other emotion-regulation strategies.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalSocial Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience·DateApr 18, 2014

Why your nose can be a pathfinder

Researchers discovered that smell is connected to memories through an associative process where neural networks are linked via synchronised brain waves of 20-40 Hz. This coherence evolved in parallel with learning and was observed in the entorhinal cortex and hippocampus, demonstrating long-distance communication mediated by waves.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNature·DateApr 16, 2014

Future computers that are 'normally off'

A research team in Japan has developed a spintronics-based technology that could replace volatile memory, enabling extremely energy-efficient devices powered by hand-crank or solar panels. The technology uses non-volatile function of advanced spin-transfer torque magnetoresistive random access memory (STT-MRAM) to create 'normally off'...

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateApr 8, 2014

COPD associated with increased risk for mild cognitive impairment

A study found that older adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are at a higher risk for developing mild cognitive impairment (MCI), particularly in skills other than memory. Patients with COPD for over five years had the greatest risk, highlighting the importance of COPD as a risk factor for MCI.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateMar 17, 2014

Common infections may increase risk for memory decline

Research links common infections such as Chlamydia pneumoniae and herpes simplex viruses to worse cognitive performance, including memory loss and decreased thinking speed. The study found an index of antibody levels associated with these infections was linked to poorer cognitive outcomes.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 13, 2014
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.

Islands in the brain: New circuit shapes memory formation

Researchers discovered a new brain circuit that shapes memory formation by endowing neurons with the ability to connect two events separated in time into a single experience. Island cells, found in the entorhinal cortex, project to the hippocampus and suppress the formation of temporal associations.

SourceRIKEN·JournalScience·DateJan 23, 2014

Educated black men remembered as 'whiter'

Researchers discovered a skin tone memory bias where educated Black men are perceived as lighter-skinned, violating the stereotype of darker skin tones being more aggressive. This phenomenon distorts memory and reinforces existing cultural beliefs about race and intelligence.

SourceSAGE·JournalSAGE Open·DateJan 14, 2014

Turning off major memory switch dulls memories

Scientists at Medical College of Georgia discovered that disabling a key brain component impairs memory formation and retrieval. Mice lacking an NMDA receptor exhibit flat tones, poor associations, and difficulty recalling fearful memories, highlighting the importance of reverberation in memory consolidation.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 10, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Neurological researchers find fat may be linked to memory loss

Neurological researchers have discovered a significant link between abdominal fat and memory loss, finding that the same protein controlling fat metabolism in the liver also resides in the memory center of the brain. This study suggests that people with high levels of abdominal fat may be at risk for memory-related problems later in life.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 8, 2013

Study suggests possibility of selectively erasing unwanted memories

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute successfully erased dangerous drug-associated memories in mice and rats without affecting other memories. The study's findings suggest a clear method to disrupt unwanted memories while leaving benign ones intact.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateSep 10, 2013
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.

Young adults reminisce about music from before their time

Researchers found young adults have strong emotional connections to the music popular during their parents' younger years. This phenomenon is linked to the prevalence of music in home environments and childhood experiences.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 9, 2013

LSU psychologist discovers intricacies about lying

A new study by LSU Associate Professor Sean Lane explores the cognitive machinery of lies, revealing that false descriptions are more accessible and durable in our memories due to the effort required to make them up. This finding has implications for police interrogation methods and forensic techniques.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalJournal of Applied Research in Memory and Cognition·DateSep 4, 2013

Long-term memory in the cortex

Researchers find that motor cortical circuits store associative memories, not just the hippocampus. This discovery suggests a new approach to treating neurological diseases like amnesia and Alzheimer's.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 27, 2013

Remembering to remember supported by 2 distinct brain processes

A study published in Psychological Science sheds light on two distinct brain activation patterns involved in prospective memory. Participants demonstrated sustained top-down monitoring for relevant tasks and environmental cues for irrelevant tasks, suggesting different strategies for remembering to remember.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 15, 2013
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.

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.

AAN: Doctors caution against prescribing attention-boosting drugs for healthy kids

The American Academy of Neurology warns against prescribing neuroenhancing drugs to healthy children and teens, citing potential long-term health risks and impaired decision-making abilities. The organization emphasizes the importance of exploring alternative solutions, such as improved sleep habits, nutrition, and study regimens.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateMar 13, 2013

Memory strategy may help depressed people remember the good times

Researchers found that using the method-of-loci technique improved recalling positive memories for individuals with depression, potentially elevating their mood. The study suggests this memory strategy may be an effective tool in managing depression.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateFeb 25, 2013
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.

In-brain monitoring shows memory network

Scientists used in-brain monitoring to show that memory networks involve simultaneous brain region activation. The study confirmed the importance of the medial temporal lobe and found distinct frequencies for time and place memories.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJan 29, 2013

Researchers zero in on cognitive difficulties associated with menopause

A study of 117 women found that cognitive declines during menopause transition are independent processes, not linked to hormone levels or symptoms like sleep disturbance and depression. Memory problems worsen in the first year after final menstrual period, affecting verbal learning, memory, and fine motor skills.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·DateJan 3, 2013

Research identifies a way to block memories associated with PTSD or drug addiction

Researchers at Western University identified a common mechanism in the pre-limbic cortex to control recall of memories linked to aversive experiences in PTSD and rewarding memories in drug addiction. Stimulating a specific dopamine receptor subtype can prevent spontaneous recall of both types of memories without altering their integrity.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalNeuropharmacology·DateDec 5, 2012

Lithium restores cognitive function in Down syndrome mice

Researchers found that lithium boosts neurogenesis in the hippocampus of Down syndrome mice, leading to improved cognitive function. The results suggest that lithium-based therapies may be effective in treating Down syndrome patients.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 3, 2012
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.

Your memory is like the telephone game

A study by Northwestern University found that human memories adapt and change with each retelling, leading to distorted recall. The research used a telephone game-like scenario where participants recalled object locations, showing improved recall accuracy on the final test for objects tested on day two but never exactly right.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateSep 19, 2012

Improving memory for specific events can alleviate symptoms of depression

A new training program targeting specific memory recall has been shown to alleviate symptoms of depression in adolescents. The study found that participants who received the intervention recalled more specific memories and showed fewer symptoms of depression compared to those in a control group.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateSep 17, 2012

Parasitic wasps remember better if reward is greater

Two parasitic wasp species show similar memory consolidation patterns when rewarded with different qualities. This suggests that higher rewards lead to better memory retention. The researchers propose that this behavior makes sense given the energetic cost of consolidating shorter-lasting memories into long-term ones.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 22, 2012
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.

When we forget to remember -- failures in prospective memory range from annoying to lethal

Research on prospective memory reveals that failures occur when we form intentions but lose focus due to interruptions or multitasking. Habital tasks can also lead to implicit intentions, making it harder to remember them. To defend against these failures, professionals use memory tools like checklists and implementation intentions.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateJul 31, 2012

1 act of remembering can influence future acts, NYU researchers find

A study published in Science found that the brain's memory system adapts to recent experiences, influencing how we process subsequent information. Researchers showed participants novel objects and asked them to identify similarities between old and new items, finding that previous experience influenced their responses.

SourceNew York University·JournalScience·DateJul 26, 2012

Why does vivid memory 'feel so real?'

Researchers found that vivid memory and real perceptual experience share striking similarities at the neural level, but not in every detail. The study used fMRI to analyze brain activity while participants watched video clips and then recalled them, finding a 91% match in sensory and motor areas of the cerebral cortex.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·JournalJournal of Cognitive Neuroscience·DateJul 23, 2012
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.

Penn researchers show 'neural fingerprints' of memory associations

University of Pennsylvania researchers have made progress in deciphering the neural processes behind human thought. Using brain recordings, they identified unique patterns that reflect how people associate words in their memories. These patterns, known as 'neural fingerprints', can potentially be used to read out individual's memory or...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·DateJun 26, 2012

Learn that tune while fast asleep

Researchers found that stimulating a musical tune during slow-wave sleep improved memory for complex skills. Participants made fewer errors when pressed keys to produce the melody presented while they slept compared to the other melody. The study opens doors for future studies on sleep-based memory processing.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJun 24, 2012

Immune system may protect against Alzheimer's changes

Researchers at the Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry have identified a key player in the immune system that may protect against Alzheimer's changes. The CCR2 gene was found to be associated with memory in people, suggesting that strengthening this part of the immune system could slow the disease.

SourceThe Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry·JournalRejuvenation Research·DateJun 15, 2012

Memory, judgment, and neuroeconomics -- News tips from Current Directions in Psychological Science

Recent studies in Current Directions in Psychological Science investigate the role of retrieval-based learning, attention to information in working memory, accurate personality judgment, and the use of neuroeconomic games to examine social decision making in children with externalizing disorders. These findings provide insights into th...

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateJun 5, 2012
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.

With fat: What's good or bad for the heart, may be the same for the brain

A recent study published in Annals of Neurology found that consuming high amounts of saturated fat was associated with poorer overall cognitive function and memory in women over time. In contrast, eating more monounsaturated fats, commonly found in olive oil, may help prevent decline in memory and cognitive performance.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateMay 18, 2012

Preventing dementia

Researchers at UBC and VCH found that a senior's exercise program using resistance-training can improve executive cognitive functions, associative memory, and brain plasticity. The study suggests that resistance training can be an effective prevention strategy for dementia.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateApr 23, 2012

Alcoholism's short-term effects on memory functioning are harmful

A study published in Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research found that alcoholism impairs associative memory, a component of episodic memory, which is essential for remembering face-name associations. Working memory, another short-term memory system, is also affected, leading to difficulties in holding information in mind.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateApr 16, 2012
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Personality, habits of thought and gender influence how we remember

A new study examines the relationship between personality traits, emotional strategies, and gender in memory recall. Researchers found that men who were high in extroversion remembered more positive life events, while women who were high in neuroticism ruminated on negative memories.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalEmotion·DateApr 10, 2012

Sleep preserves and enhances unpleasant emotional memories

A recent study by University of Massachusetts Amherst researchers found that sleep preserves and enhances unpleasant emotional memories. Contrary to previous assumptions, sleep was associated with maintaining the strength of initial negative feelings, rather than softening their effects.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateJan 17, 2012

Psychologists stress the importance of memory in preventing relapse after therapy

According to a new article, psychologists recommend making treatment memories stronger through methods like giving more therapy or conducting it in different locations. This approach exploits established principles of learning and has been shown to be effective in reducing relapse rates.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateNov 4, 2011
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.

How we create false memories: Assessing memory performance in older adults

A new study investigates how age-related stereotypes influence memory performance in older adults. Researchers found that older adults are more likely to falsely recall unrepresented words due to implicit beliefs about their age. However, by reducing the influence of negative stereotypes, memory performance can be improved.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateNov 4, 2011