Findings from a mega-analysis of differences in seed-based subcortico-cortical connectivity in youths with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and unaffected control subjects. Credit: American Journal of Psychiatry (2024).
Researchers have discovered that symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are tied to atypical interactions between the brain’s frontal cortex and information-processing centers deep in the brain.
A new study has identified a genetic mutation underlying a rare form of epilepsy and reveals novel molecular and cellular mechanisms by which the disorder manifests in patients.
For the first time, researchers have shown that non-invasive brain stimulation can change a specific brain mechanism directly related to human behavior. This is a major step forward for discovering new therapies to treat brain disorders such as schizophrenia, depression, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease.
A test that shows how good or bad we are at perceiving the rhythm of language can predict the ability to acquire language, and may also help us understand individual differences in brain biology.
A new study reveals the mechanisms behind proprioception, our body’s innate ability to sense limb position and movement, critical for movement without visual cues. Utilizing musculoskeletal simulations and neural network models, researchers have advanced our understanding of how the brain integrates sensory data from muscle spindles to perceive bodily position and motion.
Specialized brain scans may accurately predict whether a psychotic patient will go on to develop treatment-resistant schizophrenia, Dutch researchers report.
Researchers have uncovered a significant correlation between social isolation and accelerated biological aging, indicating that individuals with limited social connections are at a higher risk of premature mortality.
Scientists have revealed new insights into how the brain processes speech and listening during conversations through advanced investigations using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).
A unique multicenter study, including about 3,500 youth between 10 and 25 years old from across the globe, shows that artificial intelligence—specifically machine learning—can identify individuals with anxiety disorders based on their unique brain structure.
Researchers have identified four distinct sleep patterns linked to long-term health outcomes, revealing the profound impact of sleep habits on chronic health conditions.
A new study uncovers the nuanced effects of spaced learning on memory, emphasizing the importance of the content’s variability and the intervals between learning sessions. The study contrasts the impact of learning identical content versus content with variations, across different timescales, on memory retention.
Finally, this week, spending quality time with dogs reduces stress and increases the power of brain waves associated with relaxation and concentration, according to a recent study.
Microscopic photos observed through changes of the flourescence of the synapse sensor (SynapShot) by cultivating the neurons of an experimental rat and expressing the SynapShot. The changes in the synapse that is created when the pre- and post-synaptic terminals come into contact and the synapse that disappears after a certain period of time are measured by the fluorescence of the SynapShot. Credit: KAIST Optogenetics & RNA therapeutics Lab
A new study reveals significant findings in the fight against Long Covid. Through a comprehensive analysis of blood serum from 113 patients, researchers discovered changes in blood serum proteins related to the complement system, coagulation, and tissue injury in Long Covid patients.
A new study employs generative AI to shed light on how the human brain processes memories for learning, imagination, and planning. The study used a computational model resembling the hippocampus and neocortex’s neural networks to simulate memory encoding and retrieval.
A new study has reported that SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID, can infect dopamine neurons in the brain and trigger senescence—when a cell loses the ability to grow and divide.
Researchers have taken the first steps to treat Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and Type 2 diabetes by creating multiple patent-pending compounds shown to inhibit protein aggregation associated with those diseases.
A neuroscientific study is paving the way for improving the diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s.
A new study reveals limitations in the current use of mathematical models for personalized medicine, particularly in schizophrenia treatment. Although these models can predict patient outcomes in specific clinical trials, they fail when applied to different trials, challenging the reliability of AI-driven algorithms in diverse settings.
Research into the nature of memory reveals how cells that store information are stabilized over time.
A new study explores how infants and toddlers acquire language. Findings reveal early comprehension begins around 6-7 months, and significant improvements in language understanding occur around a child’s first birthday.
New research looks at ways to predict when a migraine attack will occur.
Researchers at the National Institutes of Health have found overactivation in many brain regions, including the frontal and parietal lobes and the amygdala, in unmedicated children with anxiety disorders. They also showed that treatment with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) led to improvements in clinical symptoms and brain functioning.
A ribbon of brain tissue called cortical gray matter grows thinner in people who go on to develop dementia, and this appears to be an accurate biomarker of the disease five to 10 years before symptoms appear, scientists report.
3D bioprinting sheds light on why blood vessel curvature may foster brain cancer metastasis.
Researchers achieved a significant advancement in robotics by replicating human-like variable speed walking using a musculoskeletal model. This model, steered by a reflex control method akin to the human nervous system, enhances our understanding of human locomotion and sets new standards for robotic technology.
Researchers conducted a study to explore the neuroscientific basis of fairness in social situations, investigating the interplay between personal interests and societal norms. By applying electric brain stimulation to 60 participants, the researchers pinpointed specific brain regions crucial to fairness decisions.
Finally this week, scientists have made a significant discovery using an artificial neural network model, suggesting that musical instinct may emerge naturally from the human brain.
Three experiments to test how dopamine affects cognitive performance during acute exercise. Credit: The Journal of Physiology (2024)
A study exploring the mechanisms behind why cognitive performance improves in response to exercise, has found that dopamine plays a key role.
Researchers have discovered that children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) develop distinct attentional preferences compared to typically developing children, focusing more on non-social stimuli like objects and textures.
Recent research contrasts the learning mechanisms of the human brain with those of deep learning in AI. Despite having fewer layers and slower, noisier dynamics, the brain can perform complex classification tasks as effectively as AI with hundreds of layers.
A new study uncovers a unique aspect of human memory: our ability to recall events is sharper after experiencing negative emotions.
A major clinical trial has shown that by using MRI and tracking to guide the delivery of magnetic stimulation to the brains of people with severe depression, patients will see their symptoms ease for at least six months, which could vastly improve their quality of life.
New research reveals that coming off antidepressants like Prozac can cause not only physical symptoms but also emotional, cognitive, and social difficulties.
Through transcriptomic profiling of more than 300,000 cells in human substantia nigra, a part of the brain that helps control the body’s movements, a research team has identified a previously unreported neuron type with vulnerability in Parkinson’s disease. This novel finding could help explain the complexity of the disease symptoms and direct new therapeutics development.
Researchers have found evidence suggesting that children exposed to elevated levels of early life adversity exhibit an accelerated pattern of brain development during the preschool years.
New research for the first time reveals the function of a little-understood junction between cells in the brain that could have important treatment implications for conditions ranging from multiple sclerosis to Alzheimer’s disease, to a type of brain cancer known as glioma.
Finally this week, a third major study finds that multivitamin supplements improve memory and slow cognitive aging in older adults.
A new study has identified a neural coding mechanism that allows the transfer of information back and forth between perceptual regions to memory areas of the brain. The results are published in Nature Neuroscience.
Perceived time has a significant impact on the actual time it takes to heal physical wounds, according to new research.
Researchers have identified a wide range of risk factors for young-onset dementia. The findings challenge the notion that genetics are the sole cause of the condition, laying the groundwork for new prevention strategies.
Researchers have developed a groundbreaking synaptic transistor inspired by the human brain. This device can simultaneously process and store information, mimicking the brain’s capacity for higher-level thinking.
People who have more disrupted sleep in their 30s and 40s may be more likely to have memory and thinking problems a decade later, according to new research published in Neurology.
With help from an artificial language network, neuroscientists have discovered what kind of sentences are most likely to fire up the brain’s key language processing centers. The new study reveals that more complex sentences, either because of unusual grammar or unexpected meaning, generate stronger responses in these language processing centers. Very straightforward sentences barely engage these regions, and nonsensical sequences of words don’t do much for them either.
Finally this week, scientists have identified a molecular anchor that stabilizes mitochondria near synapses to support memory formation.
This video explores the storage, suppression, and rekindling of memories, drawing upon groundbreaking research from Trinity College Dublin.
In pursuit of perfect memory, we tend to categorize forgetfulness as a sign of cognitive weakness. However, emerging research suggests a paradigm shift in our understanding of memory and forgetfulness. In contrast to popular belief, forgetting is not a sign of a faulty memory, but rather the brain orchestrating a purposeful act to optimize our cognitive abilities.
This shift could revolutionize the way we perceive memory and its role in our daily lives. Instead of viewing forgetfulness as a shortcoming, it could be seen as a strategic mechanism, honed by evolution to filter and prioritize information. Imagine the implications this could have on education, where traditional methods often emphasize rote memorization. If forgetting is indeed a natural and adaptive process, educators might need to reconsider their approach to learning and information retention.
Furthermore, the understanding of forgetting and its purpose can hold profound implications for disciplines such as psychology and neurology. Expanding our comprehension of the mechanisms and functions of forgetting may serve to reshape the approaches taken toward memory-related disorders and therapeutic interventions. This, in turn, could potentially open up new avenues for research and treatment, propelling advancements in these crucial fields.
Neuroplasticity at Work Neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections, plays a pivotal role in understanding the purposeful nature of forgetfulness. In a world where information overload is a daily reality, the brain must prioritize and organize data to function efficiently. This remarkable ability allows the brain to filter out irrelevant information and focus on what’s essential. The brain’s plasticity enables it to form new neural connections and reorganize existing ones, facilitating adaptation to new environments and learning new skills. Understanding the brain’s capacity for adaptation and prioritization sheds light on its incredible resilience and capability to thrive in diverse and demanding circumstances.
Learning from Mistakes Forgetfulness also serves as a valuable tool in learning from our mistakes. It allows us to filter out the less important information and retain only the most crucial lessons from our experiences. This process of selective forgetfulness aids in simplifying complex situations and extracting the key takeaways, ultimately contributing to a more refined learning process. By discarding superfluous details, our minds are better equipped to discern patterns and identify the core factors that contributed to specific outcomes. This, in turn, empowers us to make more informed decisions in the future and navigate similar situations more effectively. It’s fascinating to consider how our brains have evolved this adaptive mechanism to optimize the learning process and enable us to continuously improve our responses to various challenges.
The Role of Emotions Emotions play a significant role in the encoding and retrieval of memories. The brain tends to retain emotionally charged experiences more vividly, while less emotionally significant details may fade away. Forgetfulness, therefore, is not an indiscriminate process but rather a nuanced response influenced by the emotional context of our memories. This phenomenon highlights the interconnectedness of our emotional experiences and memory formation. The amygdala, a key player in processing emotions, is closely linked to the encoding and storage of emotional memories. When we encounter a particularly emotional event, the amygdala sends a signal to the hippocampus, a region crucial for forming new memories, enhancing the vividness and strengthening the imprint of that experience in our minds.
Understanding the impact of emotions on memory not only provides insight into the workings of the human mind but also has practical implications. For instance, educators can leverage emotionally charged experiences to enhance students’ retention of material. Similarly, in therapeutic settings, acknowledging the emotional context of memories is essential to address and process traumatic experiences effectively.
In reevaluating our understanding of forgetfulness, it becomes clear that our brains are not simply fallible machines prone to glitches. Instead, forgetfulness is a purposeful act orchestrated by our brains to optimize cognitive function in an ever-changing environment. When we consider the concept of forgetfulness in this light, we start to recognize the remarkable abilities of our brains to prioritize and adapt in response to the constant influx of new information and experiences. Rather than viewing forgetfulness as a shortcoming, we can appreciate it as a strategic process that allows our minds to maintain efficiency and relevance in a dynamic reality. This perspective invites us to explore the interplay between forgetting and remembering, shedding light on the delicate balance that sustains our cognitive prowess.
Examples of inputs and outputs from the MADRC dataset.
Researchers have developed a suite of free tools for analyzing vast amounts of brain dissection photographs at brain banks worldwide to enhance understanding of neurodegenerative diseases.
A new study reveals a strong link between regular physical activity and enhanced brain health. Analyzing MRI scans from 10,125 individuals, researchers found that exercise, even moderate exercise like walking, is associated with increased brain volumes in crucial areas like gray matter, white matter, and the hippocampus. The study underscores exercise’s role in reducing dementia risk and maintaining brain size.
Scientists have discovered that a part of the brain associated with working memory and multisensory integration may also play an important role in how the brain processes social cues.
In a first-of-its-kind study published in Nature, researchers recorded activity from hundreds of individual neurons while participants listened to spoken sentences, giving us an unprecedented view into how the brain analyzes the sounds in words.
A new study has unveiled three distinct cognitive deficits contributing to reading difficulties in individuals with left-sided neglect dyslexia, a condition that often follows a right-hemisphere stroke.
Researchers have unveiled a significant similarity between AI memory processing and human hippocampal functions. This discovery, bridging AI and neuroscience, highlights a parallel in memory consolidation – a process crucial in transforming short-term to long-term memories – in both AI models and the human brain.
A new study highlights the significant role of imagination in evoking empathy and driving prosocial behaviour.
A so-called pathological protein long associated with Parkinson’s disease has been found in a new study to trigger cells to increase protein synthesis, an event that eventually kills the subset of brain cells that die off in this neurodegenerative condition.
A new study presents a promising treatment for restoring the sense of smell in long-COVID patients.
Researchers have found that amyloid oligomers play a role in speeding up mitochondrial energetics during the early stages of Alzheimer’s, in contrast to what has been previously found in more advanced Alzheimer’s brain tissues. The results are publishedin Nature Communications.
Research led by the Karolinska Institutet, Sweden, has found an increased risk of cardiovascular disease associated with long-term ADHD medication use.
New research has uncovered a potential early marker for autism in infants: abnormally enlarged perivascular spaces (PVS) in the brain. The study found that infants with enlarged PVS had a 2.2 times greater chance of developing autism compared to those with the same genetic risk. The researchers followed infants with a higher likelihood of autism due to having an older sibling with the condition.
Signs of injury to the brain’s white matter called white matter hyperintensities, as seen on brain scans, may be tied more strongly to vascular risk factors, brain shrinkage, and other markers of dementia in former tackle football players than in those who did not play football, according to a study published in Neurology.
Artificial intelligence, coupled with data from an iPad coloring game, could assist in early diagnosis of autism, a new study shows.
A review in the Journal of Internal Medicine explores the potential of non-invasive interventions such as light, sound, and magnets to stimulate gamma brain waves for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Such strategies may be beneficial because Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by reduced fast brain oscillations in the gamma range (30–100 Hz).
Finally this week, researchers have made a significant breakthrough in understanding the genetic basis of anxiety disorders (ADs), which affect over 280 million people globally.
Loneliness, often considered a pervasive and silent epidemic, extends its influence far beyond emotions. Recent research has delved into the relationship between loneliness and the brain, revealing a complex interplay between loneliness and our brain’s neural patterns. The findings reveal that irrespective of social connections, lonely individuals exhibit distinct brain responses, underscoring the profound influence of this emotional state on neurological function.
The Stress Response and Cortisol
Loneliness emerges as a trigger for the stress response embedded in the brain’s complex architecture. This emotional state sets off a cascade of physiological reactions, with the release of stress hormones, particularly cortisol. Cortisol, often referred to as the “stress hormone,” serves as a vital player in the body’s response to challenging situations. However, when loneliness becomes a persistent companion, the continuous surge of cortisol can become a double-edged sword, influencing various aspects of brain health.
Memory, a fundamental component of cognitive function, becomes susceptible to the influence of heightened cortisol levels. Chronic exposure to stress hormones has been associated with memory impairment, affecting both the formation of new memories and the retrieval of existing ones. The toll on memory processes paints a vivid picture of how loneliness, as a chronic stressor, can compromise cognitive abilities.
Moreover, the prefrontal cortex, a pivotal region of the brain responsible for higher-order functions such as decision-making, emotional regulation, and social behavior, becomes a focal point of the impact of loneliness. Prolonged exposure to elevated cortisol levels has been linked to structural changes in the prefrontal cortex, including a reduction in size. This structural alteration may contribute to difficulties in decision-making and emotional regulation, creating a cognitive landscape where the challenges faced by lonely individuals extend beyond mere feelings of isolation.
Inflammation: Loneliness’s Silent Companion
Loneliness has been linked to a silent companion—increased levels of inflammation in both the body and the brain. This chronic inflammatory state may have broader implications for neurological health, potentially contributing to cognitive decline and various neurological conditions.
In response to chronic loneliness, the body’s immune system becomes activated, leading to a persistent state of inflammation. This inflammatory response is not confined to peripheral tissues; it permeates the central nervous system, reaching the brain. The intricate crosstalk between the immune system and the brain reveals the far-reaching consequences of loneliness on neurological health.
The chronic inflammatory state associated with loneliness is of particular concern due to its potential implications for cognitive function. Research suggests that prolonged exposure to elevated levels of inflammation may contribute to cognitive decline and an increased risk of various neurological conditions. The brain, normally resilient and adaptive, can become vulnerable to the systemic effects of inflammation, leading to disruptions in neural circuits and cognitive processes.
In the context of loneliness, the inflammatory response may compromise the integrity of the blood-brain barrier, a protective barrier that regulates the passage of substances between the bloodstream and the brain. This compromise can allow inflammatory molecules to enter the brain, where they may trigger localized inflammation and disrupt normal neural function.
Moreover, the chronic inflammatory state linked to loneliness may contribute to oxidative stress—a condition characterized by an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. Oxidative stress is known to play a role in neurodegenerative processes and has been implicated in conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and other cognitive disorders.
Structural Changes in the Brain
Loneliness isn’t merely a psychological state—it extends its influence to cognitive performance. A growing body of research paints a compelling picture of the relationship between loneliness and cognitive performance, emphasizing that loneliness isn’t merely a psychological state—it’s a cognitive challenge that leaves its mark on the brain.
As previously stated, the brain, intricately sensitive to the nuances of social connection, undergoes structural changes in response to loneliness. The hippocampus, a vital region for learning and memory, appears to be particularly susceptible. Research suggests that alterations in the volume of the hippocampus may occur in lonely individuals. These structural changes may not only be markers of the cognitive challenges associated with loneliness but could also contribute to a cycle where loneliness begets cognitive difficulties, and cognitive difficulties perpetuate feelings of isolation.
Lonely individuals, it appears, may navigate a more demanding cognitive landscape compared to their socially connected counterparts. Executive functions, the high-order cognitive processes responsible for tasks such as decision-making, problem-solving, and planning, may be particularly vulnerable in the face of loneliness. Research suggests that lonely individuals may encounter challenges in efficiently executing these cognitive processes, potentially impacting their ability to navigate complex situations and make sound decisions.
Attention, a cornerstone of cognitive performance, also falls under the sway of loneliness. Lonely individuals may exhibit difficulties in sustaining attention and may be more prone to distractions, contributing to decreased cognitive efficiency. The persistent feeling of social isolation can divert cognitive resources towards monitoring social threats or interpreting ambiguous social cues, leaving fewer resources available for tasks that require sustained attention and focus.
Memory, another pillar of cognitive function, is not immune to the influence of loneliness. Studies indicate that lonely individuals may experience alterations in memory processes, affecting both the encoding and retrieval of information. The emotional toll of loneliness can introduce a cognitive bias, influencing the way memories are stored and recalled, potentially contributing to a distorted perception of social experiences.
Sleep Disturbances and Cognitive Consequences
Poor sleep quality, a well-established consequence of loneliness, is more than just a nightly inconvenience. It is a significant factor influencing overall brain health. During sleep, the brain undergoes crucial processes that contribute to cognitive functioning, memory consolidation, and emotional regulation. Disruptions in these processes due to poor sleep quality can result in cognitive consequences that exacerbate the challenges faced by lonely individuals.
Attention, concentration, and decision-making—all critical components of cognitive function—can be impaired when sleep quality is suboptimal. The brain’s ability to process information, learn new things, and adapt to changing circumstances may suffer, amplifying the cognitive challenges faced by those contending with both loneliness and sleep disturbances.
The link between loneliness and sleep disturbances is multifaceted. The emotional distress associated with loneliness can manifest as heightened arousal, anxiety, or rumination during the night, impeding the ability to initiate or maintain restful sleep. Individuals grappling with loneliness may find themselves caught in a cycle where the quiet solitude of the night magnifies their feelings of isolation, further complicating their struggle for a peaceful night’s sleep.
Mental Health and the Loneliness Connection
Loneliness, far from being a fleeting emotion, is intricately intertwined with mental health, and the consequences of this connection reverberate deep within the neural circuits of the brain. Research consistently underscores the heightened risk of mental health issues, particularly depression and anxiety, in individuals grappling with loneliness. The psychological distress stemming from a perceived lack of social connection can cast a shadow over an individual’s thoughts and emotions, contributing to the development or exacerbation of these conditions.
At the neurobiological level, loneliness influences neurotransmitter levels, the chemical messengers that facilitate communication between nerve cells in the brain. Dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine, crucial players in regulating mood and emotional states, are particularly affected. Loneliness may lead to imbalances in these neurotransmitter systems, contributing to the manifestation of depressive symptoms and heightened anxiety.
Furthermore, loneliness disrupts the delicate neural circuits responsible for mood regulation. The brain regions involved in emotional processing, such as the amygdala and the prefrontal cortex, experience altered activity in response to chronic loneliness. The amygdala, known for its role in processing emotions, may become hyperactive, amplifying the perception of social threats and fostering a heightened state of emotional arousal. Meanwhile, the prefrontal cortex, essential for regulating emotional responses, may exhibit decreased function, leading to difficulties in emotion regulation and decision-making.
The neural changes associated with loneliness create a feedback loop, reinforcing emotional distress and further compromising mental well-being. Prolonged exposure to these alterations can contribute to the persistence and exacerbation of mental health conditions, creating a challenging cycle for individuals trapped in the grip of loneliness.
Social Pain and Pleasure Systems
Neuroscientific studies reveal that loneliness triggers brain regions associated with physical pain. The neural patterns that activate during experiences of loneliness mirror those observed in response to physical distress, reinforcing the concept of loneliness as a form of social pain. The brain, it seems, interprets social isolation with a response akin to physical injury.
Conversely, positive social interactions, genuine connections, and shared moments of companionship activate the brain’s reward centers. The pleasure derived from such interactions is not merely subjective; it is deeply rooted in the brain’s intricate circuitry. Dopaminergic pathways, particularly those associated with the brain’s reward system, light up, releasing neurotransmitters that generate feelings of happiness, satisfaction, and contentment.
The neurological impact of loneliness is a multifaceted phenomenon, with implications that extend beyond emotional well-being. Understanding and addressing the neuroscience of loneliness becomes imperative for fostering a healthier, more resilient brain.
A team of international neuroscientists has obtained the first direct recordings of the human brain in the minutes before and after a brain hub crucial for language meaning was surgically disconnected. The results reveal the importance of brain hubs in neural networks and the remarkable way in which the human brain attempts to compensate when a hub is lost, with immediacy not previously observed.
A new study, published in Cell Reports, describes a novel molecular link between vitamin B12 and multiple sclerosis that takes place in astrocytes—important non-neuronal glial cells in the brain.
Australian researchers have flagged potential concerns over the use of social chatbots, calling for more studies into the impact of AI software on neurodiverse people and those who find human interaction difficult.
An exploratory study has shown that light, regular exercise can improve the cognitive as well as physical health of adults with Down syndrome.
Researchers at Linköping University, Sweden, have examined the brains of 16 patients previously hospitalised for COVID-19 with persisting symptoms. They have found differences in brain tissue structure between patients with persisting symptoms after COVID-19 and healthy people.
Scientists have discovered a new way a ribonucleic acid (RNA) impacts fear-related learning and memory.
Comparing PET scans of more than 90 adults with and without mild cognitive impairment (MCI), researchers say relatively lower levels of the so-called “happiness” chemical, serotonin, in parts of the brain of those with MCI may play a role in memory problems including Alzheimer’s disease.
A new study reveals a significant association between adverse childhood experiences and symptoms of muscle dysmorphia in adolescents and young adults.
Using electrochemical techniques and machine learning, scientists measured dopamine levels in real time during a computer game involving rewards and penalties. The findings shed light on the intricate role of dopamine in human behavior and could have implications for understanding psychiatric and neurological disorders.
A new study sheds light on the significant role of patients’ beliefs in the effectiveness of neurostimulation treatments for conditions like depression and ADHD. Analyzing five studies, the research team found that patients’ perceptions of receiving real or placebo treatments often had more impact on outcomes than the treatments themselves.
New research has found that smoking causes the brain to shrink and age prematurely, a condition not reversible even after quitting smoking.
Researchers have discovered a key player in alcohol addiction: pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP). This peptide, found in the “bed nucleus of the stria terminalis” (BNST), is linked to heavy alcohol drinking and withdrawal.
Finally this week, new research reveals that moderate exercise improves cognitive performance even under conditions of sleep deprivation and low oxygen levels.
Researchers have demonstrated the use of AI-selected natural images and AI-generated synthetic images as neuroscientific tools for probing the visual processing areas of the brain. The goal is to apply a data-driven approach to understand how vision is organized while potentially removing biases that may arise when looking at responses to a more limited set of researcher-selected images.
A first-line therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) reshapes connectivity of the brain, according to a new study
A new analysis of the brain activity of people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is the first to reveal that traumatic memories are represented in the brain in an entirely different way than sad autobiographical memories.
Researchers have identified objective evidence of how the neck muscles are involved in primary headaches.
Optimal windows exist for action and perception during the 0.8 seconds of a heartbeat, according to research published in the open-access journalPLOS Biology. The sequence of contraction and relaxation is linked to changes in the motor system and its ability to respond to stimulation, and this could have implications for treatments for depression and stroke that excite nerve cells.
In a new study, researchers say they found high levels of a repair protein present long after a traumatic brain injury such as a concussion takes place.
A new study shows that individuals who report tinnitus, which presents as a ringing in the ears in more than 1 out of 10 adults worldwide, are experiencing auditory nerve loss that is not picked up by conventional hearing tests.
A new study has demonstrated that a novel treatment is effective in most patients with major depressive symptoms even after multiple failed courses of antidepressant medication. The treatment, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), may work even more rapidly than past findings have suggested, starting to alleviate symptoms as quickly as one week.
Finally this week, newborn babies can perceive the beat in music, new research has confirmed.
Researchers have investigated the shared and unique neural processes that underlie different types of long-term memory: general semantic, personal semantic, and episodic memory, suggesting that these memory types all use the same network of the brain, rather than relying on different areas of the brain altogether. This questions a previous theory that characterizes general semantic and episodic memory as two distinct systems. Instead, the authors suggest that different long-term memory types could be viewed as a spectrum, where they rely on activating the same areas of the brain at differing magnitudes.
Using a specialized device that translates images into sound, neuroscientists have shown that people who are blind recognize basic faces using the part of the brain known as the fusiform face area, a region that is crucial for the processing of faces in sighted people.
People with long COVID exhibit patterns of changes in the brain that are different from fully recovered COVID-19 patients, according to new research.
What is the mechanism that allows our brains to incorporate new information about the world, and form memories? New work led by Dr. Tomás Ryan from Trinity College Dublin shows that learning occurs through the continuous formation of new connectivity patterns between specific engram cells in different regions of the brain.
New research indicates that acoustic stimulation of the brain may ease persistent symptoms in individuals who have experienced mild traumatic brain injury in the past.
Scientists have discovered that Alzheimer’s-related changes in brain networks extend beyond memory and attention, impacting sensory and motor circuits. These findings challenge previous assumptions about Alzheimer’s effects.
A pivotal discovery in addiction science has found a correlation between microstructural deficits in the prefrontal cortex-habenula tract and the development and maintenance of addiction.
Researchers have unveiled a pioneering technique for charting the intricate conversations occurring within our brains. Such insights are key to decoding behavioral alterations in neurological disease patients. The innovative tool, CaMPARI, allows scientists to witness brain activity in real-time, marking active neurons red and inactive ones green. This breakthrough could offer pathways to better treatments and understanding of diseases like Alzheimer’s.
A team of neuroscientists has found evidence suggesting that the neural development of babies still in the womb is impacted by the language they hear spoken by their mothers as they carry them.
A new study has discovered a link between a new gene pathway and structural brain anomalies in some people who stutter into adulthood, opening up promising research avenues to enhance the understanding of persistent developmental stuttering.
Finally this week, researchers have developed a tool that simplifies the identification of errors in neural networks used for image recognition.
inside-the-brain.com 