3D images reveal how infants’ heads change shape during birth
3D images show how a baby's brain and skull change shape during labor and delivery. ... Read More...
PLOS
Mathematical framework explores how the brain keeps a beat
A new mathematical model can predict how the brain reacts when learning a rhythmic beat. The model shows how a neural network can act as a 'neural metronome' by estimating time intervals between beats within tens of milliseconds. The metronome relies on gamma oscillations to keep track of time.... Read More...
Mental disorders more common in people who live alone
Living alone is associated with an increased risk of developing common mental disorders, such as depression.... Read More...
Stem cells from hair follicles have potential to repair myelin sheath in mice
Melanocyte stem cells from human hair follicles that carry CD34 have the ability to turn into glial cells. The CD34+ stem cells can regenerate myelin, both on neurons and in mouse models with a genetic defect that prevents the formation of healthy myelin sheaths. The findings could have positive implications for the treatment of demyelinating diseases, such as Multiple Sclerosis.... Read More...
The brain’s imperfect execution of mathematically optimal perception
Perception is founded on Bayesian principles, even though the brain's execution of strategies appears to be imperfect. Researchers say the view perception is an imperfect Bayesian inference can provide a middle ground between traditional and anti-Bayesian models.... Read More...
Oxytocin could help treat alcohol use disorder: Rat Study
Administering oxytocin blocks the enhanced motivation for drinking alcohol that fuels alcohol use disorder by blocking GABA signaling in the central nucleus of the amygdala.... Read More...
Mother’s Behavioral Corrections Tune Infant’s Brain to Angry Tone
A new study reports babies' brains are sensitive to different emotional tones they hear in voices. Researchers suggest maternal interactions may help to shape the same brain region adults use for emotional processing.... Read More...
Parents’ Brain Activity Echoes Their Infant’s When Playing Together
When parents play with their child, their brains show similar bursts of brain activity. The activity is linked to their baby's attention patterns, and not their own, researchers report.... Read More...
Virtual Reality May Encourage Empathetic Behavior
According to a new study, virtual reality may be a useful tool for encouraging empathy and positive attitudes towards marginalized groups.... Read More...
Dads’ Nicotine Use May Cause Cognitive Problems for Children and Grandchildren
Researchers report a father's exposure to nicotine may have lasting effects on the cognitive development of his offspring. The study reports nicotine exposure may cause epigenetic alterations in key genes within the father's sperm, affecting not only his direct children but also grandchildren.... Read More...
Hugs May Help Protect Against Conflict Related Distress
A new study reveals receiving a hug on a day when you experience interpersonal conflict can be a buffer against negative mood and distress.... Read More...
Dementia Symptoms Peak in Winter and Spring
Researchers say there is a link between improved cognitive functioning in Alzheimer's disease and different seasons. The study reports those with Alzheimer's have better cognitive skills during late summer and early fall. Additionally, there was an association with seasonality and levels of Alzheimer's related proteins in the brain.... Read More...