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Vitamin D during pregnancy may play a role in children’s cognitive development, ECHO study suggests

A new study by the Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) Cohort suggests that higher vitamin D levels during pregnancy may be associated with better cognitive test scores in children. Children of Black mothers, in particular, showed strongest association between vitamin D and cognitive development.

SourceEnvironmental influences on Child Health Outcomes·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeObservational study·DateAug 6, 2025
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.

Assessing spontaneous behavioral changes in a mouse model of schizophrenia

Researchers used IntelliCage to assess spontaneous behavioral changes in a mouse model of schizophrenia, finding increased hyperactivity and exploratory behavior after treatment with MK-801. However, cognitive flexibility was impaired, suggesting schizophrenia-like behaviors.

SourceFujita Health University·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 24, 2025

Regular opioid use may increase dementia risk

A study published in Alzheimer's & Dementia found that regular opioid use is associated with a 20% increased risk of all-cause dementia and over 70% increased risk of dementia among those taking strong opioids. Regular opioid use was also linked to reduced brain volume, lower fluid intelligence, and higher risk of vascular dementia.

SourceShenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAlzheimer’s & Dementia·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 21, 2025

FAU receives NIH grant to investigate amphetamine addiction

Researchers at Florida Atlantic University are using a genetically tractable model organism, C. elegans, to dissect the cellular pathways impacted by amphetamines. The study aims to identify novel regulators of dopamine release and genes that mediate amphetamine's effects independently of traditional dopamine mechanisms.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·DateJul 15, 2025

New BrainHealth research demonstrates accelerated cognitive gains in active service members

A randomized clinical trial found that SMART training improved cognitive gains in active-duty service members with mTBI, with significant benefits seen after just one-third of the training time compared to traditional SCORE protocols. The study suggests that SMART brain training can contribute to faster return to mission readiness and ...

SourceCenter for BrainHealth·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 9, 2025

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.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournaleNeuro·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 8, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

It's never too late to start playing an instrument

Research from Kyoto University found that continuing to play a musical instrument into old age preserves brain function and prevents atrophy in the putamen. Long-term practice showed no decline in verbal working memory performance or gray matter volume, while short-term practice improved memory function for four months.

SourceKyoto University·JournalImaging Neuroscience·TypeImaging analysis·DateJul 4, 2025

‘Chemo brain’ and the aging brain: Researchers examine similarities in search for improved cognition

Researchers at the University of Oklahoma investigate the overlap between cognitive decline caused by chemotherapy and aging, discovering decreased blood flow, disrupted blood-brain barriers, and senescent cells. Removing these cells with senolytics can improve cerebral blood flow, cognition, and overall brain health.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalAging Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2025

Discovery suggests new avenue for repairing brain function

Scientists have discovered the structure and shape of key receptors in the cerebellum, a region critical for movement, balance, and cognition. This finding could lead to the development of therapies to repair damaged synapses and improve brain function.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 23, 2025
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Cognitive tests in infancy can offer insight into intelligence at age 30 and beyond

A study of over 1,000 twins found that cognitive tests in infancy can predict adult intelligence and cognition, with environmental influences playing a significant role. Early life environments, including pre-preschool years, matter more than previously thought, suggesting potential interventions to support cognitive aging.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 18, 2025

Mapping the connections between the brain’s structure and function

Using an algorithm called the Krakencoder, researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine mapped how the brain's anatomical connections and activity patterns relate to behavior. The tool accurately predicted individual's functional connectome about 20 times more than previous approaches, also mapping age, sex, and cognitive performance scores.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature·DateJun 5, 2025
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.

Self-trained vision transformers mimic human gaze with surprising precision

Researchers from The University of Osaka have demonstrated that vision transformers can spontaneously develop human-like visual attention patterns without specific training. This breakthrough showcases the potential of self-supervised learning for advancing AI applications and modeling biological vision.

SourceThe University of Osaka·JournalNeural Networks·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 26, 2025

USC study reveals link between type 2 diabetes and brain health in older adults from various populations

A new USC-led study found a significant link between type 2 diabetes and cortical thickness in older adults from various populations. The researchers discovered that individuals with T2DM exhibited thinner cortex, particularly in temporal and parietal regions critical for memory and cognitive function.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia Diagnosis Assessment & Disease Monitoring·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 15, 2025

Long working hours may alter brain structure, preliminary findings suggest

Preliminary research suggests that long working hours can induce neuroadaptive changes in the brain, particularly in areas associated with emotional regulation and executive function. The study found increased brain volumes in regions such as the middle frontal gyrus, which is involved in attention and problem-solving.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 2025
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.

Mouse memory hinges on a nine-letter protein fragment exclusive to neurons

Researchers at the Center for Genomic Regulation discovered a nine-letter microexon in DAAM1 exclusively in neurons that is critical for neuronal development and memory. Deleting this microexon in mice resulted in reduced learning spines and impaired memory function, with animals remembering roughly 40% less in standard memory tasks.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 2025

Music therapy helps brain-injured children

Researchers developed MuSICCA, a music therapy tool that uses musical stimulation to assess levels of consciousness in children with brain injuries. The study found high agreement among participants that the tool is suitable for use with children, providing guidance for caregivers and supporting clinical teams.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateMay 8, 2025

Couple satisfaction linked to fewer cognitive issues with chemo

A study found that satisfying intimate relationships and general social support can reduce cognitive problems experienced by breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. The research suggests that couples therapy could be a helpful option for partnered patients, while oxytocin levels decreased significantly during treatment.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateApr 29, 2025

University of Ottawa-led research team forges compelling new insights into dynamics of the brain’s serotonin system

A University of Ottawa-led study reveals that serotonin neurons are connected and interact with each other, controlling serotonin release in specific regions of the brain. This complex system has implications for understanding decision-making and developing targeted therapeutics for mood disorders.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeImaging analysis·DateApr 25, 2025
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.

World Sleep Society recommendations on wearable sleep trackers aim to empower consumers and clinicians, and foster industry partnership

The World Sleep Society releases recommendations on wearable sleep trackers, providing clear guidelines for consumers, clinicians, researchers, and manufacturers. Key takeaways include choosing a device suitable for individual use cases and focusing on fundamental sleep measures rather than specific stages of sleep.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalSleep Medicine·DateApr 24, 2025

Exercise boosts brain health — even when energy is low

A new study from the University of Missouri suggests that exercise can improve brain health and mitigate cognitive decline, even when ketone production in the liver is impaired. The research found that endurance exercise can prevent cognitive impairment caused by compromised hepatic ketogenesis.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2025

Cognitive and functional decline among long-term care residents

Severe permanent impairment in function and cognition are prevalent among long-term care residents nearing the end of life. A minority of residents live in these states for extended periods, suggesting the need for resident-centered medical decision-making.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 23, 2025

Adolescents who sleep longer perform better at cognitive tasks

Research found that adolescents who slept longer performed better at cognitive tests, with those sleeping 7-25 minutes more performing better. The study also found differences in brain volume and structure between the groups.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalCell Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 22, 2025
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.

Cognitively impaired older drivers are less likely to cause a crash when accompanied by a passenger

A recent study by researchers from the University of Tsukuba found that cognitively impaired older drivers are less likely to be involved in car-to-car crashes when accompanied by a passenger. The analysis revealed that second-party drivers were more likely to have been accompanied by a passenger than first-party drivers, regardless of...

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalJournal of Safety Research·DateApr 18, 2025

Menopause at an early age can exacerbate cognitive decline

Women who enter menopause before age 40 experience worse cognitive decline compared to those entering menopause after 50. This association may help clinicians assess patient risk of developing dementia. Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and design potential treatments.

SourceTohoku University·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·DateApr 15, 2025

A visual pathway in the brain may do more than recognize objects

MIT researchers have found that a computational model of the ventral stream, which processes object recognition, also performs well on spatial tasks such as determining an object's location and orientation. This challenges the dominant perspective that the ventral stream is optimized for object recognition.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateApr 14, 2025
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Scientists identify key enzyme in Alzheimer’s disease that links brain inflammation to memory loss

Researchers found that SIRT2, a previously unknown enzyme, plays a key role in excessive GABA production associated with Alzheimer's disease. This process leads to brain inflammation and memory impairment. By targeting SIRT2, scientists can selectively block its harmful effects on memory without affecting other brain functions.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalMolecular Neurodegeneration·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 14, 2025

New research deepens understanding of how vitamin K affects brain health

A new study by researchers at Tufts University suggests that a lack of vitamin K may increase inflammation and hamper proliferation of neural cells in the hippocampus, a key region for learning and memory. Vitamin K deficiency was also associated with increased neuroinflammation and reduced neurogenesis, leading to noticeable cognitive...

SourceTufts University·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateApr 9, 2025

Does cancer treatment affect connections in the brain?

New research reveals changes in brain connectivity during chemotherapy in breast cancer patients, particularly in the frontal-limbic system and cerebellar cortex. These changes worsen as treatment continues, suggesting that chemotherapy can quickly disrupt brain function in breast cancer patients.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Magnetic Resonance Imaging·DateApr 9, 2025
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.

The thalamus: A potential therapeutic target for neurodevelopmental disorders

Researchers have discovered that the thalamus can update its own connections independently of the cortex, a finding relevant to children with neurodevelopmental disorders. This breakthrough suggests that modulating neurotransmitters in the thalamus could alter sensory processing and improve cognitive function.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNeuron·DateApr 7, 2025

A research team from the UJI tests how the brain uses context boundaries to guide decision-making in both spatial and abstract environaments

The DAM-Decision and Memory group at Universitat Jaume I studied the cognitive and neural computations that guide decision-making and long-term memory. They found that the hippocampal and medial prefrontal cortex regions use context boundaries to make decisions in both spatial and abstract contexts.

SourceUniversitat Jaume I·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 4, 2025
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.

Face processing abnormalities identified in autism dog model

A new study has revealed that Beagle dogs carrying mutations in the Shank3 gene exhibit face processing abnormalities, similar to those observed in human ASD patients. The research provides direct experimental evidence that mutations in Shank3 lead to ASD-like deficits in face processing, contributing to social impairments.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 3, 2025

Study reveals how alcohol abuse damages cognition

Rats exposed to high amounts of alcohol demonstrated poor decision-making during a complex task even after a monthslong withdrawal period. The team linked the behavioral difficulties to dramatic functional transformations in the dorsomedial striatum, a part of the brain critical for decision-making.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 2, 2025

Brain abnormalities seen in military members with blast exposure

A new study published in Radiology found that higher blast exposure correlated with changes in brain function and structure, even when standard MRI exams appeared normal. The researchers discovered weaker connectivity in key areas and more severe symptoms such as memory problems and post-traumatic stress disorder.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateApr 1, 2025

Balance between two competing nerve proteins deters symptoms of autism in mice

Researchers used mice to examine the activity of two neuronal proteins linked to autism. They found that a natural balance between MDGA2 and BDNF maintains normal neuron activity, but disruption can lead to ASD-like symptoms. This study suggests MDGA2 and BDNF as promising therapeutic targets for future treatments.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 1, 2025
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.

How nostalgic music helps minds remember

A new study from USC Dornsife's Brain and Creativity Institute found that nostalgic music engages the brain's default mode network linked to memory and self-reflection, as well as its reward circuitry. This discovery could support emotional well-being and cognitive function in individuals with memory impairments.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 31, 2025

Long-term practice of Transcendental Meditation may reduce both stress and aging

Research at Maharishi International University found that long-term TM practitioners have lower inflammation, slower age-related decline in cognitive function, and reduced cortisol levels, indicating potential benefits for overall health and longevity. The study suggests a protective effect against both stress and aging.

SourceMaharishi International University·JournalBiomolecules·TypeObservational study·DateMar 31, 2025

Highly educated people face steeper mental declines after stroke

Research published in JAMA Network Open found that college graduates experienced faster cognitive decline after a stroke compared to those with less education. The study highlights the importance of identifying patients at high risk for post-stroke cognitive decline to target future interventions.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 26, 2025
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.

Neuroscientists unveil digital 'translator' for brain studies

A new digital 'translator' for brain studies enables researchers to map the brain in a standardized way, facilitating discoveries and treatments for various disorders. The open-source software allows for the comparison of brain imaging data with widely used brain atlases, promoting commonalities across findings.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 26, 2025

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.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 24, 2025

How sleep keeps our memories fresh

Researchers at ISTA discovered that neural activity patterns during sleep reflect recently learned spatial memories and transform into those seen later upon awakening. This 'representational drift' phenomenon optimizes memory representations for long-term storage, allowing the brain to free up resources for new memories.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 24, 2025
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Can AI help detect cognitive impairment?

Researchers developed a portable system using AI to spot cognitive impairment by measuring subtle differences in motor function. The device accurately identified 83% of participants with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), offering potential for early intervention and improved outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalAlzheimer Disease & Associated Disorders·DateMar 13, 2025

More hospital rehabilitation may not mean you’re home sooner

A new study suggests that hospital rehabilitation for older adults might only be the beginning of a longer journey. While therapy is crucial in mitigating functional decline, only a small minority of patients receiving intensive therapy (14+ hours/week) had a greater likelihood of home discharge.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateMar 11, 2025

Fluorescent dope

Researchers from Kyoto University and Cambridge University developed a fluorescent dopamine sensor to monitor dopamine signals in primate brains. The study found that dopamine signals varied depending on the location in the striatum, with distinct patterns observed in the anterior putamen and caudate head.

SourceKyoto University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 11, 2025

At-home brain speed tests bridge cognitive data gaps

A new study led by researchers at UCL has found that online brain speed tests can provide valuable insights into cognitive function and potentially shed light on dementia development. The tests, which measure reaction times, were designed to be easy and convenient for women in their 40s and older to participate from home.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalBMJ Open·TypeObservational study·DateMar 6, 2025

Customized smartphone app shows promise in preventing further cognitive decline among older adults diagnosed with mild impairment

A randomized clinical trial found that a customized smartphone app, Silvia Program, significantly improved cognitive functioning among residents with mild cognitive impairment. The program's combination of daily goal setting, cognitive training, and AI-generated conversations showed promising results.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalPublic Health in Practice·DateMar 6, 2025
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Menopause symptoms associated with future memory and neuropsychiatric problems

A study of nearly 900 postmenopausal women found an association between perimenopausal symptom burden and later cognitive function and behavioral impairment. Women with higher menopausal symptom burdens were more likely to experience poorer cognitive function and mild behavioral impairments, both markers of dementia.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS One·TypeObservational study·DateMar 5, 2025

How the brain distinguishes between pain and itch

Researchers discovered distinct neuronal populations in the ACC process pain and itch information separately, with stimulus-specific neurons receiving differentiated synaptic inputs from the mediodorsal thalamus. Suppressing these neurons reduced corresponding sensations without affecting the other.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 2025
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Breathing and vision may be linked

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet discovered a fundamental mechanism linking breathing to pupil size, which affects vision. The study shows that the pupil is smallest during inhalation and largest during exhalation, impacting visual perception.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateFeb 21, 2025

A step closer to understanding Rett syndrome

Mutations in MeCP2 gene lead to depletion of NEAT1, a long non-coding RNA controlling autophagy. Restoring NEAT1 reverses cellular alterations in Rett syndrome models.

SourceJosep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2025