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Reboot and recall: new brain hub for memory restoration identified

Researchers have found that stimulating the anterior thalamus can increase memory-related brain activity and restore memory function in rats with MTT lesions. The study suggests that therapies targeting this region could help recover memory in patients with brain injury, challenging previous notions of memory recovery.

SourceElsevier·JournalCurrent Research in Neurobiology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 23, 2021

Prevalence of spatial neglect prompts call for screening survivors of right and left brain strokes

A systematic review found spatial neglect to be prevalent among 29% of unilateral stroke survivors, with higher rates in right brain strokes and ecological assessments. This condition impairs cognitive and motor functions, slowing rehabilitation progress and increasing risk for injury.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalAnnals of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 27, 2021

Does our mind’s eye match real life? New study shows differences in how we perceive images

A new study by the University of Plymouth and Essex found that many adults struggle to imagine their own visual perception as a flat image, resisting the idea of 'corrected' vision. When shown two lines with different lengths, participants often judged them as equal in length, despite being able to see one as longer when viewed on camera.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateSep 2, 2021

Why are we so drawn to places of happy memories?

Researchers identified astrocytic mu-opioid receptors as key to conditioned place preference, a mechanism underlying addictive behaviors. The study found that astrocytic MORs in the hippocampus release glutamates, increasing synaptic transmissions and inducing long-term potentiation, which is responsible for spatial memory acquisition.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 30, 2019

Study examines how high altitude affects memory

A new study investigated the impact of high altitude exposure on short-term memory, identifying effects on spatial and verbal memory. The study found that high altitude exposure can lead to deficits in these aspects of cognition, affecting daily functioning.

SourceWiley·JournalBrain and Behavior·DateMar 20, 2019

Neurons ripple while brains rest to lock in memories

Researchers from Rice University and Michigan Medicine developed a tool to analyze brain waves during periods of rest. They found that these ripples can be used to reconstruct memories of an environment, even when the animals were not actively exploring. The study provides new insights into how brains sort and store information.

Deep brain stimulation may not boost memory

A recent study published in Neuron found that deep brain stimulation did not improve memory performance, with a range of impairment from 5% to 20%. However, the researchers suggest that a different stimulation protocol may be necessary to boost memory.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateDec 7, 2016

Orientation without a master plan

Studies show that when learning objects in an open space, spatial memory is accessed step-by-step, while environmental spaces require more time to recall objects from neighboring corridors. This research has implications for understanding navigation and the neuronal basis of wayfinding.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCognition·DateSep 6, 2016

Unlearning implicit social biases during sleep

Researchers at Northwestern University discovered that a sleep-based intervention after training can significantly reduce implicit social biases. The study, published in Science, found that participants who received the intervention showed stronger bias reduction one week later. The findings challenge traditional views on habit learnin...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateMay 28, 2015

Fruit-loving lemurs score higher on spatial memory tests

A study by researchers at Duke University found that fruit-eating lemur species excel in spatial memory tests, demonstrating a strong link between diet and cognitive abilities. The findings suggest that lemurs with diets rich in fruits, which are seasonally available and often hard to access, develop superior spatial memory skills.

SourceDuke University·JournalAnimal Cognition·DateFeb 21, 2014

Infections damage our ability to form spatial memories

Increased inflammation after infections impairs brain's ability to form spatial memories by disrupting neural circuits involved in learning and memory. The study used PET scans to measure effects of inflammation on glucose consumption in the brain, revealing a decrease in glucose metabolism in the Medial Temporal Lobe.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJan 24, 2014