BPA May Affect the Developing Brain by Disrupting Gene Regulation
New research suggests environmental exposure to bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical commonly found in plastics and resins, could suppress a gene critical to nerve cell function and the development of the central nervous system. Exposure to BPA could predispose humans to a number of neurodevelopmental and other health disorders.
Ultrasound Reveals Autism Risk at Birth
Low birth weight babies with ventricular enlargement are at greater risk for developing autism, a new study suggests.
Has Evolution Given Humans Unique Brain Structures?
Comparing fMRI scans of human brains and those of rhesus monkeys, researchers believe they have new evidence which proves humans have unique cortical brain networks.
Lessons From Cockroaches Could Inform Robotics
New insight obtained by studying the gait of cockroaches could provide valuable information on how biological systems stabilize. The research could help to develop more stable robots and provide doctors with better understanding on human gait abnormalities.
Neuroscientist Sheds Light on Cause for ‘Chemo Brain’
A new study argues that prolonged chemotherapy decreases the development of new brain cells, and disrupts ongoing brain rhythms in the part of the brain responsible for making new memories.
How Human Language Could Have Evolved from Birdsong
Linguistics and biology researchers propose a new theory on the deep roots of human speech. A new study suggests human language is a grafting of two communication forms found elsewhere in the animal kingdom: first, the elaborate songs of birds, and second, the more utilitarian, information-bearing types of expression seen in a diversity of other animals.
Scientists Make Older Adults Less Forgetful in Memory Tests
Researchers have found compelling evidence that older adults can eliminate forgetfulness and perform as well as younger adults on memory tests. The findings have intriguing implications for designing learning strategies for older adults.
Secrets of Human Speech Uncovered
A new study has uncovered the neurological basis of speech motor control, the complex coordinated activity of tiny brain regions that controls our lips, jaw, tongue and larynx as we speak.
Genome-Wide Imaging Study Identifies New Gene Associated with Alzheimer’s Plaques
Researchers combined genetic data with neuroimaging in order to identify genes associated with amyloid plaque deposits in Alzheimer’s disease patients. The study is believed to be the first genome-wide association study of plaque deposits using a specialized PET scan tracer that binds to amyloid.
It’s Not Just Amyloid: White Matter Hyperintensities and Alzheimer’s Disease
A new study suggest that along with amyloid deposits, white matter hyperintensities may be a second necessary factor for the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
