Cognitive Control

Using real-time brain signals to predict and prevent attention lapses in kids

New study identifies a key brain circuit for spatial memory in mice

Researchers discovered a crucial connection between the two hippocampal hemispheres in mice, which is necessary for navigation and remembering locations. The study also found that this circuit is altered in mice carrying a genetic mutation associated with schizophrenia.

Scientists reverse brain aging, with a nasal spray

Researchers developed a nasal spray that reversibly reduces brain inflammation, restores cellular power plants, and improves memory. The treatment bypasses the brain's protective shield through intranasal delivery, suppressing chronic inflammation and promoting successful brain aging.

A complete rethinking of how our brains use categories to make sense of the world

A new review paper proposes that brain categorization is part of a predictive process to efficiently meet needs, rather than an intellectual exercise comparing sensory inputs to a fixed prototype. This approach predicts the world and anticipates actions, allowing for efficient survival and thriving in a fast-paced environment.

Cannabis intoxication disrupts many types of memory

A new study found that cannabis intoxication disrupts many types of memory, including verbal, visuospatial, and episodic content memory. Participants who consumed cannabis performed significantly worse than the placebo group on most measures, with significant differences appearing in 15 of the 21 tests.

Study finds teens spend nearly one-third of the school day on smartphones, with frequent checking linked to poorer attention

A new study found that middle and high school students spend nearly one-third of the school day on their smartphones, with frequent checking linked to weaker attention and impulse control. The study also found that students who checked their phones more frequently showed poorer cognitive control, a key skill for learning and academic s...

Study reveals insights about brain regions linked to OCD, informing potential treatments

Researchers found differences in how brain regions work together during certain cognitive tasks in individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The findings may lead to new treatment targets for OCD, especially when involving transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).

Center for BrainHealth launches Fourth Annual BrainHealth Week in 2026

BrainHealth Week 2026 will explore precision brain health, biosensor technology, and mental resilience, offering actionable strategies for improving daily performance and quality of life. The event brings together industry leaders, scientific community, students, and the community at large to discuss practical roadmap for longevity.

NUS Medicine researchers identify key protein that could reverse ageing

Researchers at NUS Medicine have found a critical driver of neural stem cell function during ageing, called DMTF1. Restoring DMTF1 expression can restore neural stem cell regeneration capabilities in aged brain cells.

Congratulations to Prof. Boaz Ben-David of the School of Psychology and Dr. Yulia Golland of the School of Medicine on winning a BSF-NSF research grant

The researchers are studying how brief, playful social interactions affect brain function and cognitive performance in older adults using advanced brain imaging techniques. They aim to develop simple and inexpensive interventions that can be implemented in clinical settings and in the community.

Scientists investigate why memory circuits break down in Alzheimer’s disease

Scientists Sharon Swanger and Shannon Farris study how mitochondria in vulnerable memory circuits become overloaded with calcium, contributing to early memory breakdowns. Their research aims to find early signs of stress or failure in the entorhinal cortex-hippocampus circuit.

When does our brain start getting 'old'? Charting the lifespan trajectories of cognitive control

Researchers analyzed 139 neuroimaging studies on cognitive conflict tasks across 3,765 participants aged 5-85, revealing an inverted U-shaped lifespan developmental trajectory in brain activities associated with cognitive control. The peak age of brain activity was found to be between 27 and 36 years.

Mental time travel: a new case of autobiographical hypermnesia

Hyperthymesics possess extraordinary control over memories of life events, organizing them within a mental space for vivid recall. This ability allows for intense mental travel through time, with some individuals recalling details from different points of view.

Neural activity linked to self-preoccupied thinking

A neural pattern predicting self-focused thinking has been identified in people with a tendency to internalize. Fluctuating brain activity during rest is associated with maladaptive self-interest, which can lead to depression and anxiety. Researchers hope their findings will help predict the onset of mental health conditions.

Healing takes a ‘toll’ and how mental health providers cope matters

A study by Florida Atlantic University found that avoidant coping plays a key role in lowering the quality of life for mental health providers. Long-term training in adaptive coping strategies and fostering an internal sense of control can improve provider well-being and client outcomes.

Telehealth and online cognitive behavioral therapy–based treatments for high-impact chronic pain

Remote, scalable cognitive behavioral therapy-based treatments improved pain and quality-of-life outcomes for individuals with high-impact chronic pain. These lower-resource treatments could increase availability of evidence-based nonpharmacologic pain treatments.

USC study: mindfulness meditation can sharpen attention in adults of all ages

A new study from the University of Southern California reveals that just 30 days of guided mindfulness meditation can significantly enhance key aspects of attentional control. The study demonstrates that even short-term meditation can lead to measurable cognitive improvements, particularly in reaction speed.

Mild exercise-induced eye blink frequency changes predict individual differences in executive function enhancement

Research finds that mild physical activity affects brainstem dopaminergic and noradrenergic neurons, leading to improved executive function. Blink frequency increases in individuals showing cognitive benefits from exercise.

Runners improve performance by narrowing their visual focus, new study finds

A new study found that runners who focus on a single point ahead of them, such as the finish line, can increase their effort and performance. This mental strategy, known as attentional narrowing, was associated with faster running times and higher heart rates.

Move more, think sharper

A new study found that staying active through moderate-to-vigorous physical activity is associated with significantly better processing speed, working memory, and executive function in older adults. Even small changes to daily activities can have big impacts on brain health.

Trial explores drug-free approach to treat ADHD symptoms in children exposed to alcohol before birth

Researchers at UCLA Health are launching a clinical trial to test whether wearable nerve stimulation can ease ADHD symptoms in children with prenatal alcohol exposure. The study aims to improve focus and behavior by gently stimulating the trigeminal nerve, which is linked to attention and executive function.

Study shows addressing working memory can help students with math difficulty improve word problem-solving skills

A new study from the University of Kansas explores the role of working memory in word problem-solving for students with and without math difficulties. Researchers found that using interventions to improve working memory can benefit students who struggle with math, reducing cognitive load and improving word problem-solving ability.

Brain circuit associated with intensity of involvement across the political spectrum identified

A new study found that a specific brain circuit is associated with the intensity of political involvement, regardless of political ideology. The researchers analyzed data from 124 male military veterans who had experienced penetrating head trauma and found lesions to this circuit in both liberal and conservative participants.

Exercise of any kind boosts brainpower at any age

Groundbreaking research from the University of South Australia shows that any form of exercise can significantly boost brain function and memory across children, adults, and older adults. Regular exercise improves general cognition, memory, and executive function in both healthy individuals and those with clinical conditions.

Maternal depression can lead to children’s emotional overeating, study shows

A study found that maternal depression can negatively influence children's executive function and lead to emotional overeating. Mothers with postpartum depression may model unhealthy coping mechanisms for their children, affecting their ability to regulate emotions and develop healthy eating habits.

Investigating how decision-making and behavioral control develop

A longitudinal study found that neural changes in teenagers' brain networks for reward processing and executive functioning improve with age. The researchers discovered changes in the strength of communication between brain regions as people aged, associated with improved reward-related decision-making and executive function.

Novel research shows brain connections can predict future substance use in adolescents

Researchers found that brain connectivity related to cognitive control predicted substance use initiation, while cognitive control behavior did not. Stronger connectivity between the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex was associated with delayed substance use onset.

Could ‘cognitive drills’ when warming up give athletes a head-start?

A new study found that combining physical warmups with short bursts of cognitive tasks enhances athletic performance. Researchers discovered a 'Goldilocks effect,' where the right balance between cognitive and physical activities is key to optimal performance.

Novel research reveals how adversity shapes the developing brain and its connection to future health risks

Researchers found that negative early life experiences can lead to delayed brain development in adolescents, increasing vulnerability to mental health disorders. The study suggests brain connectivity rather than cognitive control behavior is a stronger predictor of future substance use.

Multilingualism improves crucial cognitive functions in autistic children

A new study reveals multilingualism enhances executive function skills, including focus, understanding perspectives, communication, and reduces repetitive behaviors in both autistic and non-autistic children. Parents of multilingual households report stronger overall executive function compared to mono-lingual households.

Daily physical activity, sports participation, and executive function in children

A Dutch cohort study found that early-life moderate to vigorous physical activity was not associated with executive function in middle childhood. In contrast, children who participated in team sports at ages 10 to 11 showed superior executive function compared to those participating in individual sports.

Joint pain associated with depressive symptoms accelerates cognitive decline in the elderly

A study of over 4,000 participants found that those with both conditions showed faster memory impairment. The researchers suggest that the combination of joint pain and depressive symptoms can lead to an 'overlap' of information in the brain, causing cognitive decline.

Asthma and memory function in children

A cohort study found asthma to be associated with memory difficulties in children, which may impact executive function abilities. Earlier asthma onset is likely to exacerbate these effects.

Can magnetic pulses aimed at the brain treat insomnia?

A team led by Dr. William Killgore is investigating a non-invasive treatment for insomnia using magnetic pulses that suppress the default mode network in the brain. Preliminary findings suggest that this approach can improve sleep quality in individuals with chronic insomnia.

Prenatal cannabis exposure and executive function and aggressive behavior at age 5

A US cohort study found that prenatal cannabis exposure was associated with differences in executive function and aggressive behavior in children at age 5. The study's results may inform clinical recommendations on cannabis use during pregnancy.

Repetitive head impacts and perivascular space volume in former football players

A cross-sectional study of 170 former football players found a strong association between repeated head impacts and increased perivascular space volume, as well as worse cognitive test performance. The findings suggest that PVS volume may contribute to the link between RHI exposure and neurodegeneration.

Groundbreaking study shows promise for early detection and intervention in psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia

Researchers have discovered a link between cognitive impairments and brain network organization in individuals at risk of developing psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. This finding suggests an opportunity for early diagnosis and intervention, potentially through non-invasive neuromodulation.

Large study confirms significant frequency of undetected responsiveness in severe brain injury

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that one-fourth of patients in a coma or vegetative state showed clear signs of cognitive function on brain scans despite being unable to move or speak. This significant frequency of undetected responsiveness suggests that many seemingly unconscious patients may be a...

If you yawn, I yawn too: new mechanisms behind imitative behavior revealed

Researchers have uncovered new insights into how the brain regulates imitative behavior, a phenomenon that facilitates interaction and social cohesion. The study used advanced brain stimulation technique to pinpoint the causal role of different circuits in facilitating or inhibiting automatic imitation.

Work emails, calls on golf course worsen performance, study finds

Researchers from Stellenbosch University discovered that using work-related content during golf sessions reduces performance, whereas personal activities have little to no effect. The study suggests a clear distinction between leisure and professional use of smartphones in recreational settings.

New technology to control the brain using magnetic fields developed

Researchers have developed Nano-MIND technology, which uses magnetism to selectively activate specific deep brain neural circuits, modulating complex brain functions such as cognition and emotion. The technology has been successfully tested in animals, demonstrating its potential to regulate feeding behaviors and maternal instincts.

Metformin and other antidiabetic drugs can help reduce the risk of dementia in patients with type 2 diabetes

Researchers analyzed over 1.5 million patient records to find that metformin and SGLT-2 inhibitors lowered dementia and Alzheimer's disease risks compared to other antidiabetic drugs. The study suggests individualized treatment approaches considering patient-specific factors for optimal diabetes management.

Poor health, stress in 20s takes toll in 40s with lower cognition

Researchers discovered that young adults with higher levels of inflammation were more likely to experience reduced cognitive function in midlife. Higher inflammation was associated with lower performance on skills testing and differences in executive functioning.

How do high-profile incidents of racial discrimination affect the eating habits of Black women?

Researchers found that Black women living near areas of unrest experienced higher levels of emotional eating and stress, while those in safer neighborhoods engaged in cognitive restraint. The study suggests that vicarious racial discrimination can lead to race-based traumatic stress and poor mental and physical health outcomes.

Exercise lifts mood for adults with Down’s syndrome

A new study found that physical activity and cognitive training can improve life satisfaction and mood for adults with Down’s syndrome. The Mindsets study involved 83 participants who were assigned to one of four groups for an eight-week period, including a control group, light physical exercise, or BrainHQ activities.

Cognitive training less effective in healthy older adults with beta-amyloid deposits

A multi-center study found that healthy older adults with beta-amyloid deposits showed significantly less training improvement in cognitive tasks. However, individuals without amyloid deposits demonstrated better cognitive plasticity and training effectiveness.

Higher blood pressure is associated with poorer cognition in adolescence

A Finnish study found that adolescents with higher blood pressure and arterial stiffness exhibit poorer cognitive functions, particularly attention and learning. The study also reveals interesting sex differences in the associations between blood pressure, arterial stiffness, and cognition in adolescents.

Training cognitive control in children does not change brain or behavior

A new study published in Nature Neuroscience found that training exercises designed to improve cognitive control in children do not lead to any brain changes or improvements in related behavioral measures. The study tested 235 children aged six to 13 and found that while they improved on specific tasks, these gains did not carry over i...

Black adults at risk for Alzheimer’s disease live in more polluted areas, US study finds

A study by Duke and Columbia Universities found that non-white older adults with mild cognitive impairment reside in areas with more environmental injustices than their white peers. The study suggests that location, race, and environmental factors may interact to impact brain health.

Under stress, an observer is more likely to help the victim than to punish the perpetrator

A study published in PLOS Biology found that stressed participants were more likely to help the victim than punish the perpetrator in a simulated third-party intervention task. The researchers observed higher brain activation in regions linked to decision-making and mentalizing when stressed participants chose to help.

Behavioral therapy against ageing

A study by Eötvös Loránd University found that a combination of cognitive and physical therapy improved the behavior and engagement of older dogs. However, it was discovered that cognitive exercise alone had no positive effects, while physical activity alone showed modest improvements in flexibility and friendliness.

In the brain, bursts of beta rhythms implement cognitive control

Beta bursts regulate neuron activity to implement cognitive control, enabling flexible but controlled patterns of neural activity for intentional thought. Studying these bursts could aid in diagnosing and treating cognitive disorders, including ADHD, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's disease.

Eye-opener: Pupils enlarge when people focus on tasks

A recent study published in Attention, Perception & Psychophysics found a correlation between pupil dilation and working memory. Researchers at the University of Texas at Arlington discovered that individuals with better working memory had larger pupil dilations during tasks, indicating improved focus and attention.

Quick decisions in soccer enhanced by brain’s ability to suppress actions

Researchers found that highly skilled soccer players exhibit faster reaction times and lower variability when faced with decision-making tasks. The study suggests that strong inhibitory processes play a crucial role in facilitating quick decisions on the field.

The impact of ketogenic diets on cognitive behavior, motor function, and blood lipids

Researchers found that ketogenic diets reduced plasma levels of total Tau in females, mitigated elevations in plasma lipids, and improved circulating lipids. However, neither continuous nor intermittent ketogenic diets improved measures of cognitive or motor behavior in the TgF344-AD rat model.

Paper: To understand cognition—and its dysfunction—neuroscientists must learn its rhythms

The study suggests that understanding brain rhythms is critical for developing effective treatments for neurological disorders like schizophrenia, epilepsy, and Parkinson's. Cognition emerges from the coordinated activity of millions of neurons via electric fields, known as brain waves or rhythms.

Brain cerebellum can shape cognition

The study found that the cerebellum uses information about errors to refine movement and contributes to cognitive functions. The posterior lateral region of the cerebellum is interconnected with the prefrontal cortex and helps shape cognition.

Learning a second language helps maintain a socially healthy brain in old age

Early bilingualism may protect theory of mind abilities against normal age-related declines. The research team found that early bilingualism was associated with higher gray matter volume, greater cortical thickness, and larger surface area in brain regions involved in mental state inferences and language processes.

Researchers propose a new way to identify when babies become conscious

Academics from the University of Birmingham suggest a new approach to identifying consciousness in babies, building on adult markers. They propose clustering markers across early and late development stages to pinpoint emergence.

Child Development Perspectives Journal Q&A: Universality of executive functions: A focus on Latin America

Research highlights advances in developmental executive functions study from Latin American regions, finding both universality and cultural specificity in EFs development. This contextualized approach fosters effective pathways for supporting children's cognitive and emotional development.