Stress can have an impact on voice disorders. Researchers found those with higher salivary cortisol levels also exhibited brain activity that impacted the larynx. Those who were more introverted were more likely to have stress reactions related to speech.
The anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) plays a critical role in regulating social behaviors. In mouse models of ASD, dysfunction in the ACC was linked to social impairments associated with the disorder.
Neuroimaging reveals people experience a diminished neural response in the anterior cingulate cortex when shown images of others with facial disfigurements. A similar response is also seen when people view other stigmatized people, such as those who are homeless. The diminished activity may explain why people are less empathetic toward those who have facial disfigurements and may help explain the underlying neural mechanism for dehumanization.
Studying brain tissue samples from people with ASD revealed a common set of alterations in genes associated with synaptic communication between neurons. The changes were identified mainly in neurons in the uppermost layers of the neocortex.
When making complex decisions, the brain performs two computations using distributed network areas in the frontal cortex.
Sulforaphane, a compound derived from broccoli sprouts, may be a useful new treatment for those suffering from schizophrenia. In a recent set of animal and human studies, researchers characterized novel chemical imbalances in the brain related to glutamate. Levels of glutamate, they discovered, can be altered by administering sulforaphane.
Using a combination of movie clips and neuroimaging, researchers find people have positive biases to those they feel are more like them, even if they are unable to see the person's face.
For some, insomnia may be caused by failing to neutralize emotional distress. Researchers speculate the sleep disorder could be caused by brain circuits that regulate emotion.
A study of macaque monkeys reveals low-intensity ultrasound can both generate and suppress signalling in the brain and modulate normal function. The ultrasonic stimulation alters counterfactual thinking, allowing the ability to decide upon a better alternative in decision-making tasks.
Study reports the anterior cingulate cortex of rats contain mirror neurons that respond to pain experienced by and observations of others.
A new neuroimaging study reveals real time eye contact is a basis for effective social communication. The study found eye contact between two people simultaneously activated the same areas of each person's brain.
Exercise is associated with improved brain function and a decrease in cerebral blood flow in older people with mild cognitive impairment, a new study reports.