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cognition

·July 30, 2024·4 min read

GLP-1 Drug Slows Alzheimer’s Cognitive Decline

A recent study suggests that a GLP-1 drug, liraglutide, may protect the brains of people with mild Alzheimer’s disease, slowing cognitive decline by 18% over one year. This effect is likely due to the drug’s ability to reduce brain inflammation, improve insulin resistance, and lower the impact of Alzheimer’s biomarkers.

This shows statues with This and That written on them.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·July 29, 2024·3 min read

How “This” and “That” Shape Language and Social Cognition

A study reveals that demonstratives like 'this' and 'that' not only indicate distance but also direct attention, linking language to social cognition. Researchers found that the meaning of demonstratives varies across languages and is influenced by the listener's focus. This study involved speakers of ten languages and used computational modeling to understand these dynamics. The findings suggest that attention manipulation is an inherent part of language, embedded in demonstratives.

Autism Brain Cancer Featured Neuroscience

·July 25, 2024·8 min read

Cancer Drug Shows Promise for Autism Cognitive Function

A new experimental cancer drug could ease cognitive difficulties for those with Rett syndrome, a rare autism-linked disorder, by enhancing brain cell functions. The drug, ADH-503, improves the activity of microglia, which are crucial for maintaining neural networks.

Featured Neuroscience

·July 25, 2024·4 min read

“Eureka Moments” Shed Light on Consciousness

A new study proposes a novel approach to studying consciousness through behavioral observations and learning curves. The study highlights that learning often occurs in sudden leaps, suggesting these "eureka moments" are preceded by conscious cognitive processes.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·July 22, 2024·4 min read

Daily Naps and Brain Training Reduce Dementia Risk

Exercising our brains with daily habits like naps and memory workouts, instead of relying on smartphones, can reduce the risk of age-related dementia. A new study highlights the superiority of human intelligence over AI. The study emphasizes nurturing our brain's potential for healthy aging. It also offers practical tips for boosting brain power and maintaining real intelligence.

Featured Neuroscience

·July 18, 2024·5 min read

Making Us Blush: Study Explores Blushing Mechanisms

Researchers investigated the neural basis of blushing using MRI scans and cheek temperature measurements. The study found that blushing activates the cerebellum and early visual areas, but not regions linked to understanding mental states. This suggests blushing may be an automatic emotional response rather than a cognitive one. The findings could help address social anxiety related to blushing.

Featured Neuroscience

·July 16, 2024·3 min read

Sleep Patterns Linked to Cognitive Health in Women

The REFRESH-NOW study investigates the impact of sleep duration and irregularity on cognitive health in women aged 55 and older. Using activity trackers and a smartphone app, researchers aim to understand how sleep disturbances contribute to dementia development.

Featured Neuroscience

·July 15, 2024·5 min read

Night Owls Have Higher Cognitive Aptitude

A recent study links sleep preferences to brain performance, finding that "night owls" often score higher on cognitive tests than "morning larks." Researchers analyzed data from over 26,000 people, highlighting that sleeping 7-9 hours a night optimizes brain function.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·July 11, 2024·3 min read

Predicting Cognitive Decline in Early Alzheimer’s

A new study predicts cognitive decline rates in people with early Alzheimer's and explores how new drugs may slow this process. Researchers found that prediction models can estimate the rate of decline but with some uncertainty. These models could eventually help answer practical questions about quality of life for patients. The findings highlight the potential of new treatments to delay cognitive impairment.

Featured Neuroscience

·July 10, 2024·5 min read

Critical Brain Development in Toddlers at 16 Months

Researchers found that 16-month-old toddlers engage more brain regions to develop cognitive skills like inhibitory control. Using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), the study showed increased brain activity in the prefrontal and parietal cortex. Despite no observable improvement in skills, significant brain changes were noted between 10 and 16 months. This highlights 16 months as a crucial period for developing the ability to follow instructions and control impulses.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·July 5, 2024·5 min read

Early Inflammation Linked to Midlife Cognitive Decline

A new study finds that higher inflammation in young adulthood is associated with reduced cognitive function in midlife. Researchers discovered that inflammation due to factors like obesity and smoking can impact memory and processing speed.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·June 27, 2024·5 min read

Peptide Improves Cognition in Schizophrenia

Researchers developed a novel peptide, KS-133, to target cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia. By using a brain-targeting peptide, KS-487, they successfully transported KS-133 across the blood-brain barrier. Their nanoparticle-based drug delivery system improved cognitive functions in mice, offering a new therapeutic strategy.