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Why do we cradle babies in one specific arm?

Research has shown that most people cradle babies in the crook of their left arm, as this allows for better sound quality and emotional connection. The theory suggests that this is because the heart is on the left side and humans perceive information faster with their left ear.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalInfancy·TypeObservational study·DateJan 9, 2024

Memory, brain function, and behavior: exploring the intricate connection through fear memories

Researchers examine the dynamic nature of fear responses in varied environments, shedding light on physical manifestation of memory in the brain. The study reveals that fear memories are linked to pathological states like PTSD and generalized anxiety, with direct translational relevance for disorders involving dysregulated fear responses.

SourceBoston University·JournalJNeurosci·TypeObservational study·DateJan 2, 2024

Giving video games this Christmas? New research underlines need to be aware of loot box risks

A new study by the University of Plymouth shows that at-risk individuals are more likely to engage with loot boxes than those without, highlighting the need for stricter enforcement around these features. The research found that loot box use is driven by beliefs such as 'I'll win in a minute', echoing the psychology seen in gambling.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 20, 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.

Pulling an all-nighter? Don’t follow with an important decision

A study from the University of Ottawa found that sleep deprivation significantly impacts decision-making processes, reducing neural responses to winning and losing outcomes. This can lead to diminished positive emotions in response to winning and negative emotions when faced with losses.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalPsychophysiology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 29, 2023

From the first bite, our sense of taste helps pace our eating

Researchers at University of California - San Francisco find that sense of taste signals brain to slow down eating. Using advanced techniques, they recorded brain activity in awake mice and found PRLH neurons controlled by mouth signals when eating normally, not gut signals as previously thought.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature·DateNov 22, 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.

HKU State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences provides a roadmap for unlocking the brain secrets of social media

A team of international experts is pushing for evidence-based policy making by investigating the neural mechanisms underlying social media usage. Current studies have shown that excessive use can affect brain systems related to motivation, emotion, and cognition.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2023

How mice choose to eat or to drink

A Stanford University study found that mice resolve conflicts between hunger and thirst through indirect modulation of behavior. The researchers used advanced recording technology to monitor individual neurons in the mouse brain, predicting the animal's choice before it was presented with options.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·DateNov 8, 2023
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.

Why all languages have words for ‘this’ and ‘that’

Researchers found that all tested languages make the same spatial distinctions using words like 'this' or 'that', based on reachability. This suggests a universal action constraint underlying demonstrative language across cultures.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeObservational study·DateOct 30, 2023

Stunting in infancy linked to differences in cognitive and brain function

Research from the University of East Anglia found that children who are too short for their age can suffer reduced cognitive ability due to differences in brain function as early as six months. The study discovered a link between stunted growth and disrupted visual working memory, making them more easily distracted.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeObservational study·DateOct 26, 2023

Youngest children in class with ADHD as likely to keep diagnosis in adulthood as older pupils, find scientists

Children diagnosed with ADHD at a young age are just as likely to retain the diagnosis in adulthood as their older peers, according to a new study. The research, which examined data from over 6,500 patients globally, suggests that the youngest children in class are not more likely to lose the diagnosis over time.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 26, 2023
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.

WVU joins BRAIN Center to advance technology for neurological disorders

The WVU School of Medicine and Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources will support clinical trials and engineering technology development. The project aims to improve care and rehabilitation for people with neurological disorders through novel physician-engineer programs and human research.

SourceWest Virginia University·DateOct 19, 2023

Our sense of smell changes the colors we see, show scientists

A study in Frontiers in Psychology found that unconscious 'crossmodal' associations with our sense of smell can distort perception of colors. Participants adjusted sliders to change the color of a square, but their choices were influenced by the odor they smelled, such as perceiving coffee as a reddish-brown color instead of neutral grey.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 6, 2023

Sahmyook University researchers identify genes associated with addiction to psychostimulant drugs

Sahmyook University researchers discovered a correlation between methamphetamine-induced behavior and the expression of specific genes in mice models lacking Period 2 gene. They identified 19 genes that were activated only in response to repeated doses of methamphetamine.

SourceSahmyook University·JournalProgress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2023
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.

Researchers reverse hearing loss in mice

A study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences successfully reversed hearing loss in mice by activating a defective gene. The researchers found that introducing a special enzyme at a young age significantly improved hearing, with positive effects becoming less potent with time.

SourceKing's College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 10, 2023

Pain not perceived in the same way in people with Alzheimer's Disease

Researchers found that mice with Alzheimer's Disease lacked TLR4 in their central nervous system, leading to reduced joint inflammation and immune cell response. This study suggests potential therapeutic targets for chronic pain treatment and raises awareness about underreported pain in AD patients.

SourceKing's College London·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 22, 2023

Chronic stress-related neurons identified

Scientists at Karolinska Institutet have identified a group of nerve cells involved in creating negative emotional states and chronic stress. The neurons, which are sensitive to oestrogen levels, were mapped using advanced techniques such as Patch-seq, Neuropixels, and optogenetics.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 22, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Our brain prefers positive vocal sounds that come from our left

Researchers found that the brain's auditory cortex responds strongly to positive human sounds coming from the left, but not from the right or front. This bias may have an evolutionary advantage, as it could help detect potential threats or predators.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2023
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.

NFL players who experienced concussion symptoms during careers show reduced cognitive performance decades after retirement

A study of over 350 former NFL players found that those who reported concussion symptoms performed worse on cognitive tests, particularly in episodic memory and sustained attention. Cognitive decline was not associated with diagnosed concussions or age, but rather with the presence of concussion symptoms.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalArchives of Clinical Neuropsychology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 2, 2023

Some stroke patients become more fatigued afterwards

Research found that patients with poorer memory, concentration, anxiety, and depressive symptoms after a stroke are more likely to be fatigued and sleepy. This study highlights the importance of monitoring cognitive and emotional issues in stroke patients to prevent long-term fatigue and improved diagnostics and treatment.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalFrontiers in Neurology·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 14, 2023

Managing emotions better could prevent pathological ageing

Researchers from UNIGE observed that negative emotions modify the brains of older adults excessively and over time, particularly in the posterior cingulate cortex and amygdala. This could be prevented with better emotional management, such as meditation, which could limit neurodegeneration.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Aging·TypeNews article·DateJan 13, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Aging | Epigenetic aging is associated with aberrant neural oscillatory dynamics serving visuospatial processing in people with HIV

A new study finds epigenetic aging is associated with aberrant neural oscillatory dynamics serving visuospatial processing in people with HIV. Participants showed accelerated biological age and different brain activity patterns compared to controls, suggesting a link between biological aging and neural function in PWH.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeObservational study·DateJan 5, 2023

Virtual reality game to objectively detect ADHD

A virtual reality game called EPELI has been developed to assess ADHD symptoms in children by simulating everyday situations. The game uses eye tracking and machine learning to detect differences in eye movements, which can indicate attention deficits.

SourceAalto University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 20, 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.

Researchers identify key brain cells in mice underlying stress-related behaviors

A new study published in Molecular Psychiatry sheds light on the neural mechanisms underlying stress-related behaviors, revealing that glutamate cells in the ventral tegmental area play a critical role. The research found that mice exposed to uncontrollable stressors exhibited more pronounced anxiety-like behavior, whereas those with c...

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateDec 1, 2022

Toward early detection of pathological social withdrawal, Hikikomori

A new Hikikomori Questionnaire has been developed to identify individuals with pathological social withdrawal at an earlier stage. The questionnaire evaluates socialization, isolation, and emotional support on a scale of 0-4, providing a tool for early detection and treatment of hikikomori.

SourceKyushu University·JournalPsychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2022

How hormonal birth control may affect the adolescent brain

Research in rats suggests that hormonal contraceptives may alter the developing prefrontal cortex, increasing stress hormone production and disrupting signal transmission. The study's findings have implications for understanding the impact of birth control on teenage behavior and mood.

SourceOhio State University·DateNov 15, 2022

Daytime sleep enhance fear memories of emotional trauma and anxiety

A study by Ural Federal University found that daytime naps and wakefulness both reinforce the formation of fear memories in response to emotional trauma. This research has significant implications for developing strategies for rehabilitating individuals with anxiety disorders.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalCognitive Affective & Behavioral Neuroscience·DateNov 2, 2022
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.

Are women really better at finding and remembering words than men? Large study settles score

A large meta-analysis of over 500 measures from 350,000 participants found that women have a small but consistent advantage in finding and remembering words. The female advantage is also influenced by the sex/gender of the leading scientist, with female scientists reporting a larger advantage.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 13, 2022

Global consortium study, supported by the Alzheimer’s Association, aims to shed light on viruses’ impact on the brain

A global consortium study aims to understand the impact of SARS-CoV-2 on the brain, with researchers evaluating over 1,000 participants worldwide. The study, led by UT Health San Antonio, uses advanced brain imaging and neuropsychological tests to assess cognitive function and identify potential causes of long-term brain changes.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia Translational Research & Clinical Interventions·TypeObservational study·DateSep 22, 2022
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.

Novel analysis shows the experience of reward increases connectivity between the default mode network and other brain regions

Researchers found that experiencing reward enhances connectivity between the default mode network (DMN) and the ventral striatum. This effect was specific to the DMN and correlated with personality characteristics related to openness. The study used data from the Human Connectome Project, a database of healthy participants.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalNeuroImage·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 16, 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.

Research reveals people can recognize the emotions of other people in face masks

A study by Durham University found that people's ability to recognize emotions in others is not affected when their whole body is visible. However, they were less accurate at recognizing happiness in masked faces. The researchers used images of full bodies with and without face masks to test participants' emotion recognition skills.

SourceDurham University·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateJul 18, 2022

Model for distinguishing materials like a human being does

A research team developed a model that mimics human judgment to distinguish between reflective and transparent materials. The model outperformed humans in accuracy but struggled to identify image clues.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalJournal of Vision·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 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.

Where the mind is without fear: Scientists discover mechanism behind the chemically induced suppression of fearful memories

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science identify brain regions and signaling pathways involved in fear extinction via delta receptor activation. The study suggests a potential therapeutic agent for post-traumatic stress disorders by suppressing fearful memories.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalFrontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2022

Fetal exposure to drugs may affect infants’ brain development

A study at the University of Helsinki found that in utero exposure to mother's antiepileptic or antidepressant medication can lead to widespread changes in cortical networks, affecting local and global brain function. This may have implications for infants' neuropsychological development and future research on environmental factors.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateApr 20, 2022
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.

Largest ever psychedelics study maps changes of conscious awareness to neurotransmitter systems

A team of researchers from McGill University and other institutions analyzed 6,850 testimonials from psychedelic users, creating a 3D map of brain receptors linked to subjective experiences. The study found associations between serotonin receptors and ego-dissolution, suggesting potential new treatments for psychiatric conditions.

SourceMcGill University·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 16, 2022

Smartphone reminders can improve memory for older adults with dementia

A recent study found that using personal assistant applications on smartphones can significantly improve memory in older adults with dementia. The researchers trained participants to use the technology to receive reminders about daily events and activities, resulting in improved memory performance.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 7, 2022
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Kessler Foundation scientists explore evidence for improving outcomes for prism adaptation therapy in stroke survivors

Researchers analyzed fMRI studies on healthy individuals and stroke survivors to understand the neural mechanisms underlying prism adaptation therapy. The study found differences in brain activity patterns between healthy individuals and those with spatial neglect, suggesting a shift in spatial processing to the left hemisphere.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalBrain Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 3, 2022