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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

Doubling the information from the double helix

A new group of regulatory molecules called mirror-microRNAs has been discovered to control multiple aspects of brain function. These microRNA genes are produced from the same piece of DNA but have different functions in regulating protein production and movement, doubling the capacity of regulation.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 27, 2012

Saving power, saving money

A team of researchers at Case Western Reserve University has developed a novel technique called fine-grained power gating, which can eliminate wasted energy in computer processors. This method reduces power consumption by up to 40% and also minimizes heat production, resulting in significant cost savings.

Making memories: How 1 protein does it

Researchers found that BDNF uses microRNA to target the production of specific proteins involved in learning and memory, and that increasing these microRNAs can halt protein production. The study sheds light on how memories are made and offers hope for treating mental disorders and neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell·DateMar 5, 2012

Silicon oxide circuits break barrier

Researchers at Rice University have developed the first two-terminal memory chips using only silicon, which can be easily adapted to nanoelectronic manufacturing techniques. The new technology features high on-off ratios, excellent endurance and fast switching times, making it suitable for military and NASA applications.

SourceRice University·JournalNano Letters·DateAug 31, 2010

TWAS awarded Premio Feltrinelli

TWAS has received the 2010 Premio Feltrinelli award for its unprecedented accomplishments in promoting scientific capacity in developing countries. The prize includes a Euro 250,000 cash award and recognizes TWAS's inspirational mission to advance global economic and social well-being through South-South cooperation in science.

SourceTWAS·DateJun 24, 2010

New understanding of protein's role in brain

Researchers at McGill University have discovered a modified protein that plays a key role in memory processes, altering its function and enabling stronger neural connections. This finding represents an important step in understanding how the brain stores memories.

SourceMcGill University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMar 25, 2010

Back to the future for computers: A return to the 1980s?

Emerging optical technologies will enable warehouse-scale computing data centers, allowing users to access their data from anywhere and at any time. Google's Cedric Lam highlights the importance of low-cost, high-bandwidth, and high-density optical fiber interconnects in powering cloud computing.

SourceOptica·DateMar 11, 2010

Beep, beep, oops, what was I doing?

A study of 84 students found that those with high working-memory capacity were more resistant to distractions, while those with low capacity struggled to focus. The researchers suggest that improving the brain's ability to filter out irrelevant stimuli could lead to new therapies for easily distracted individuals.

Wordless Holocaust memories speak truths for today

A study by Marianne Hirsch and Leo Spitzer explores the evolution of Holocaust Studies and Memory Studies, arguing that even a witness' silence can tell a powerful story. The authors examine how oral and video testimonies have redefined listening and the role of witnesses in shaping collective memory.

SourceSAGE Publications UK·JournalMemory Studies·DateMay 11, 2009

Can exercising your brain prevent memory loss?

A study of 197 people with mild cognitive impairment found that engaging in mental activities like reading, crafting, and playing games reduced the risk of memory loss by 30-50% compared to those who didn't participate. Participants who watched TV for less than 7 hours a day were also 50% less likely to develop memory loss.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 17, 2009