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A butterfly effect

Researchers at MPFI discovered Protein Kinase C delta's (PKCd) role in regulating cell-wide gene expression through synaptic plasticity. The study found that PKCd activates biochemical reactions that spread throughout the neuron, influencing gene transcription and memory formation.

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2023
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.

Protons set to power next-generation memory devices

A KAUST-led team has developed a proton-mediated approach that produces multiple phase transitions in ferroelectric materials, potentially leading to high-performance memory devices. The method enables the creation of multilevel memory devices with substantial storage capacity, operating below 0.4 volts.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 17, 2023

Biomarkers may hold key to precision mental health diagnosis, care

A Lehigh University professor has received $4 million in NIH grants to develop an AI-driven approach for precision mental health diagnosis and care. The project aims to identify biomarkers in the brain that can predict treatment response and personalize interventions for patients with depression and other mental disorders.

SourceLehigh University·DateJul 10, 2023

Deep-brain stimulation during sleep strengthens memory

Researchers found that targeted deep-brain stimulation during a critical sleep cycle improved memory consolidation in patients with epilepsy. The study provided physiological evidence from inside the human brain supporting the main theory for how memory is consolidated during sleep.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJun 1, 2023

40 Hz vibrations reduce Alzheimer’s pathology, symptoms in mouse models

A new study by MIT scientists shows that 40 Hz vibration can reduce levels of the hallmark Alzheimer's protein phosphorylated tau, preserve neurons, and improve motor function in mouse models. This research demonstrates a third sensory modality to increase gamma power in the brain, offering new hope for Alzheimer's treatment.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·DateMay 18, 2023

Researchers develop manual for engineering spin dynamics in nanomagnets

A comprehensive manual has been developed to engineer spin dynamics in nanomagnets, revealing mechanisms behind magnon interactions. The rules formulated by the researchers can help debug and design nanomagnet devices for next-generation computation technologies.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPhysical Review Applied·TypeContent analysis·DateMay 4, 2023
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.

Why people include themselves in photos

Researchers found that first-person photos best represent physical experiences, while third-person photos depict deeper meanings. People intuitively choose perspective for self-representational goals, affecting photo satisfaction and personal motives.

SourceOhio State University·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2023
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.

Identifying the inflammatory cells behind chemo brain

Researchers identified microglia as key players in chemo brain inflammation, suggesting a potential target for treatment. In a mouse study, deleting microglia restored memory and lowered brain inflammation after paclitaxel treatment.

SourceOhio State University·JournalBrain Behavior and Immunity·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2023

Mushrooms magnify memory by boosting nerve growth

Researchers from The University of Queensland have identified new active compounds in Hericium erinaceus that promote neuron projections, extending and connecting to other neurons. This discovery could lead to treatments and protection against neurodegenerative cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalJournal of Neurochemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

An action plan to prevent Alzheimer’s disease

An international task force led by UNIGE and HUG has developed a preventive protocol to address the growing number of people affected by Alzheimer's disease. The guidelines focus on four pillars: risk assessment, risk communication, risk reduction, and cognitive enhancement.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Europe·TypeNews article·DateJan 31, 2023

New smartphone app designed by University of Toronto researchers shown to significantly improve memory recall

Researchers developed HippoCamera, a new smartphone app that significantly improves memory recall by boosting attention to daily events. Users record videos and audio descriptions of everyday experiences, which are then replayed to reinforce memory consolidation.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 2023

New research shows dynamics of memory-encoding synapses in the brains of live mice

A team of researchers used imaging technology to study synapse dynamics in the brains of live mice, revealing that some new synapses formed during fear conditioning are eliminated over time. This finding supports the 'unlearning' hypothesis and could help scientists better understand brain activity in patients with PTSD.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 12, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Adverse childhood experiences contribute to cognitive decline in women in China in later life

A recent study found that adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) contribute to cognitive decline and depression in middle-aged and older Chinese women. The researchers identified associations between ACEs, depression, and poor mental intactness in old age, highlighting the importance of health intervention strategies to prevent cognitive...

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalGlobal Transitions·TypeObservational study·DateJan 10, 2023

Holding information in mind may mean storing it among synapses

Researchers at MIT's Picower Institute found that the brain stores information in working memory by making short-lived changes in neural connections, contradicting the traditional idea of sustained neuronal activity. This new insight sheds light on the sophisticated flexibility of thought and its dynamic nature.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 29, 2022

How the brain stores remote fear memory

Researchers found that remote fear memories are permanently stored in connections between memory neurons in the prefrontal cortex. The study suggests that a dysregulation of fear memory consolidation can lead to chronic maladaptive fear in PTSD, affecting about 6% of the population.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 23, 2022

Silent synapses are abundant in the adult brain

Researchers at MIT have discovered that the adult brain contains millions of silent synapses, which may explain how the brain forms new memories without modifying existing connections. These inactive connections can be recruited to help form new memories when important new information is presented.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateNov 30, 2022
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.

Overweight women most likely to suffer long Covid

A new study from the University of East Anglia found that overweight women are more likely to experience symptoms of long Covid. The research also shows that people with long Covid are much more likely to need additional and lasting NHS care than those who make a swift recovery.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateNov 30, 2022

For memory formation, organization matters

Small cell clusters in hippocampus are vital for fear-based memories, while sleep helps stabilize these clusters to improve memory. The study uses immediate early gene imaging to visualize active cells throughout the entire rat hippocampus.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalHippocampus·DateNov 28, 2022

Alzheimer’s risk gene undermines insulation of brain’s “wiring”

The APOE4 gene variant increases the risk of Alzheimer's disease by disrupting the insulation of brain wiring. Research found that oligodendrocytes mismanage cholesterol, failing to transport fat molecules to myelinate axons. This deficiency may contribute to the pathology and symptoms of Alzheimer's.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 16, 2022
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

The brain from early to late life: New research from SfN journals

Researchers found that efficient brain networks may contribute to healthy memory performance in older adults, while postnatal stress and early life adversity can affect brain development. Studies also showed persistent effects of early childhood neglect on brain white matter into young adulthood.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateNov 9, 2022

Many middle-aged adults wary of taking part in studies of dementia prevention drugs

A new study found that only 12% of middle-aged adults are willing to participate in dementia prevention drug trials, citing concerns over the risks involved. The study suggests prioritizing those with a family history or perceived personal risk for dementia and communicating about trial safety could increase participation.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe Journal of Prevention of Alzheimer s Disease·TypeSurvey·DateNov 2, 2022
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.

During sleep, one brain region teaches another, converting novel data into enduring memories

Researchers used a neural network model to study how brain regions interact during sleep. They found that the hippocampus and neocortex work together to convert fleeting information into long-term memory. The findings suggest that alternating between REM and slow-wave sleep stages is crucial for strong memory formation.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 24, 2022

Discovery of a new function of the cerebellum

Researchers at the University of Basel have discovered a new function of the cerebellum in storing emotional experiences, which is crucial for our survival. The study shows that increased activity in the cerebellum facilitates the storage of information in various areas of the cerebrum, leading to improved memory for emotional events.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 6, 2022

Unlocking the power of our emotional memory

Researchers at Boston University have found a way to manipulate emotional memories using optogenetics, allowing them to rewrite and reduce the potency of negative memories. The study reveals that positive and negative memories are stored in distinct regions of the brain and communicate through different pathways.

SourceBoston University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 3, 2022
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.

When Alzheimer’s degrades cells that cross hemispheres, visual memory suffers

A new study found that Alzheimer's disease damages a circuit that connects the vision processing centers of each brain hemisphere, leading to disrupted visual memory. The researchers discovered neurons that extend axons across the corpus callosum, which connect the hemispheres, and showed that these cells play a crucial role in synchro...

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2022

Smells experienced in nature evoke positive wellbeing

A new study published in Ambio reveals that smells experienced in nature can evoke positive emotions, improve physical wellbeing, and reduce stress. Smells played a significant role in delivering benefits from interacting with nature, often tied to personal memories and ecological characteristics.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalAMBIO·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 3, 2022

Using smartphones could help improve memory skills

A new study published in Journal of Experimental Psychology: General found that using digital devices as external memory can improve memory skills. Participants who used digital devices to store information showed improved memory for both saved and unsaved information, with a notable increase in recall of less important details.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2022

A methodological leap in the exploration of memory

Researchers have developed a groundbreaking 'toolbox' to study receptor mobility in the brain, revealing its critical role in certain types of memory. The study used high-resolution imaging and manipulation techniques to observe receptor dynamics in intact brain tissue, providing new insights into the mechanisms controlling memory.

SourceCNRS·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2022

Stress transmitter wakes your brain more than 100 times a night – and it is perfectly normal

New research from the University of Copenhagen shows that noradrenaline causes brief wake-ups during sleep, potentially leading to better memory and less anxiety. High levels of noradrenaline result in brief awakenings, while low levels promote deeper sleep.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 14, 2022
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Who benefits from brain training and why?

A joint UC Riverside and UC Irvine study found that people who show near transfer in brain training are more likely to experience far transfer, meaning improved focus and problem-solving skills. The research suggests that working memory training can be effective for certain individuals, but its impact on fluid intelligence remains deba...

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2022

Neuroscientists identify role of basolateral amygdala neurons

Researchers discovered two novel categories of cells in the BLA that respond to ethological stimuli, including event-specific neurons responding to one type of stimulus and panresponsive neurons responding equally well to multiple stimuli. These findings suggest a larger role for the BLA in memory and behavior.

SourceSainsbury Wellcome Centre·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 7, 2022

Physical consequences improve motor learning

Research published in eNeuro found that physical consequences, such as slipping, can improve motor learning by refining movement responses to mistakes. Participants who experienced a slip improved their ability to adjust steps to new situations, demonstrating better generalization of learned skills.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 23, 2022

A brain circuit in the thalamus helps us hold information in mind

Researchers identified a key brain circuit in the anterior thalamus that helps us hold information in mind. In a study of mice, enhancing this circuit's activity improved their ability to navigate a maze and reversed memory loss with artificial stimulation.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 11, 2022
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.

Infants preferentially perceive faces in the upper visual field

A study found that infants aged 5-8 months preferentially perceive faces in the upper visual field. The bias emerges around 7 months and is specific to faces, with no observed bias for non-face images. This suggests an important role of experience with faces in daily life in shaping this perceptual bias.

SourceChuo University·JournalDevelopmental Science·DateApr 24, 2022

A single memory is stored across many connected brain regions

A new study by MIT researchers confirms that a single memory is stored across many connected brain regions, challenging long-held assumptions. The study used advanced imaging techniques to map memory encoding and recall activity in mice, revealing dozens of brain regions involved in memory storage.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 11, 2022

Remembering is seeing

Studies investigating the impact of memory on perception aim to understand how our brains alter sensory information, enabling us to conserve energy on expected stimuli. This research may lead to advancements in treating PTSD by analyzing communication between brain regions affected by trauma.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMar 8, 2022
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.

Study challenges advice to perform different tasks at specific times

Researchers from Washington State University found that the optimal time of day for different cognitive tasks does not differ based on task type. Participants who felt sleepy should consider postponing important tasks until a later time to avoid performance impairment.

SourceWashington State University·JournalClocks & Sleep·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 2022

Filtering out the noise

Researchers find that familiar stimuli quiet down brain activity in fruit flies, allowing for clearer processing of specific odors. This mechanism applies to neural circuits in other animals, including humans, and is essential for filtering out distractions to focus on relevant information.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 14, 2022

Older adults store too much information in their brains

A study published in Trends in Cognitive Sciences found that older adults tend to store irrelevant information, making it harder to remember specific details. This can lead to a 'flood' of information, but also benefits like improved prior knowledge utilization and decision-making.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 14, 2022
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Scientists discover new mechanism involved in learning and memory

A recent study at Rockefeller University reveals that the FMRP protein plays a dual role in regulating synaptic connections between neurons. It controls protein production in dendrites to strengthen connections, while also regulating gene expression in cell bodies to maintain overall neuron state.

SourceRockefeller University·JournaleLife·DateFeb 9, 2022

Song sparrows shuffle and repeat to keep their audience listening

Researchers found that males keep track of the order of their songs and how often each one is sung for up to 30 minutes. This complex behavior allows them to curate both their current playlist and the next one, with variations in song order and repeats.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJan 26, 2022

I remember how to control my body, therefore, I am.

A study published in iScience reveals that distorted perception of bodily self-consciousness can be predicted by different kinds of memories. The researchers found that the recovery of body ownership was associated with a fast memory process, while agency recovery was mainly linked to a slow memory process.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournaliScience·DateDec 8, 2021

Why do we remember stressful experiences better?

The study found that memories of objects from stressful situations rely on similar brain activity as memories of the stress trigger itself. This suggests that the mechanism reinforcing emotional memories is rooted in the neural link between important aspects of the episode and the stress trigger.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 15, 2021
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Human intelligence just got less mysterious says Leicester neuroscientist

A new study by University of Leicester neuroscientists argues that the way humans store memories is key to our superior intelligence. Contrary to long-held beliefs, the same group of neurons stores all memories, enabling abstract thinking and cognitive abilities unique to humans.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateNov 5, 2020

Citizens themselves contribute to political mistrust

A recent study by Aarhus University researchers reveals that citizens contribute significantly to the spread of negative information about politicians, leading to increased mistrust. This phenomenon is rooted in humans' innate psychological tendency to prioritize self-interest over political substance.

SourceAarhus University·JournalAmerican Political Science Review·DateOct 20, 2020

Enhancing memory network via brain stimulation

Researchers used repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation to increase functional connectivity of a neural network implicated in memory. The study, published in eNeuro, confirms the effectiveness of this technique for experimental and clinical applications.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateOct 10, 2019

Do you know why and how you forget passwords?

Researchers discovered that people tend to forget passwords less frequently when they are used more often, according to a Rutgers University-led study. The study's findings suggest that password systems could be designed to encourage users to log in regularly, improving password retention.

SourceRutgers University·DateSep 6, 2018
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.

Do all people experience similar near-death-experiences?

A study of 154 individuals with near-death experiences found that while common phenomena like feeling peacefulness and seeing a bright light occur frequently, the order of appearance varies greatly between participants. The most commonly reported sequence was out-of-body experience followed by a tunnel, bright light, and finally peace.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateJul 26, 2017