Why do we sometimes have trouble paying attention?
Patterns of functional connectivity reliably predict when people were more or less focused on a task.... Read More...
attention
Brain training does not improve early number skills
Brain training exercises do not help boost early math learning. However, core thinking skills, including memory and attention, are key skills that support early math learning.... Read More...
Mindfulness video game changes areas of the brain associated with attention
Tenacity, a newly developed video game that promotes mindfulness, alters connectivity between the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and the inferior parietal cortex. These areas of the brain are critical for attention. After playing the game for a short period, participants reported improvements in attention.... Read More...
A surprising new source of attention in the brain
The posterior inferotemporal cortex plays a critical role in attention. Researchers say the discovery may require rethinking old concepts of attentional control.... Read More...
Controlling attention with brain waves
Attention can be boosted by using neurofeedback to increase alpha brainwaves.... Read More...
Science underestimated dangerous effects of sleep deprivation
Findings debunk the common theory that attention is the only cognitive function affected by sleep deprivation. Lack of sleep also hinders a person's ability to complete activities that require following multiple steps.... Read More...
Link between inflammation and mental sluggishness shown
Inflammation appears to have a negative impact on attention and cognition.... Read More...
Happy, angry or neutral expressions? Eyes react just as fast
The initial reaction of the brain is independent of the facial emotional expression we see. It is only after the eye movement is completed that the brain shows strong responses to the emotional expression of a face.... Read More...
Distractions distort what’s real
Distractions may change our perceptions of reality, making us believe we witnessed something different from what we really saw.... Read More...
Carriers of Alzheimer’s genetic marker have greater difficulty harnessing past knowledge
Middle-aged people with the Alzheimer's related APOE4 gene have a harder time accessing recently acquired knowledge, even when they show no symptoms of memory decline.... Read More...
‘Microdosers’ of psychedelics report improved mood, focus and creativity
Those who microdose psychedelics report improved mood, greater focus, and increased creativity. A new study looks at the positive outcomes of microdosing and suggests others look at potential long-term negative consequences of using psychedelics.... Read More...
The science behind giving up
Pnoc neurons in the paranigral ventral tegmental area become active when mice seek rewards. Stimulating these neurons with optogenetics promotes avoidance behaviors. Researchers say ventral tegmental area dopamine neuron NOPR expression is necessary to limit reward-seeking behavior.... Read More...