FeaturedNeuroscience·February 11, 2025·3 min readGut Microbiome Regulates Brain Signals Through the Vagus NerveNew research provides direct evidence that the gut microbiome communicates with the brain through the vagus nerve. Using germ-free mice, scientists observed significantly reduced vagal nerve activity, which returned to normal after introducing gut bacteria.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·February 7, 2025·3 min readKetogenic Diet May Stabilize Mood in Young People with BipolarResearchers are launching a multi-site pilot study to assess whether a ketogenic diet, alongside standard medications, can stabilize mood symptoms in young people with bipolar disorder. The 16-week trial will involve 40 participants aged 12-21, who will follow a ketogenic diet while their mood symptoms, metabolic markers, and adherence to the diet are monitored.Read More
AutismFeaturedNeuroscience·January 3, 2025·4 min readMultilingualism Boosts Cognitive Skills in Children With AutismChildren in multilingual households, including those with autism, demonstrate stronger executive functions, such as inhibition, flexibility, and perspective-taking, compared to monolingual peers. Speaking multiple languages also reduces repetitive behaviors and improves communication, key challenges in autism.Read More
FeaturedNeurologyNeuroscience·November 25, 2024·5 min readTENS Nerve Stimulation Ease Long Covid Pain and FatigueA new study demonstrates that a wearable Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) device can significantly reduce pain, fatigue, and mobility issues in people with long COVID. Participants using the active TENS device reported 26.1% greater pain relief and improved walking performance compared to a placebo group after four weeks of daily use.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeurosciencePsychology·October 28, 2024·5 min readChildhood Attention Problems and Genes Linked to Psychosis RiskChildhood attention issues, coupled with genetic predispositions, increase the likelihood of experiencing psychotic-like symptoms in adolescence. By analyzing data from 10,000 youths, researchers discovered that variability in attention spans partially explains how genetic risk factors translate into psychotic-like symptoms.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·October 14, 2024·5 min readMotor Delays May Predict Genetic Disorders in KidsA recent study reveals that motor delays and low muscle tone are strong indicators of an underlying genetic diagnosis in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. Researchers reviewed patient records to identify early signs, finding that 75% of children with motor delays had genetic diagnoses. Early identification can enable families to seek genetic testing, potentially offering targeted treatments or monitoring for related medical issues.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·October 9, 2024·6 min read3D Gene Regulation Map Sheds Light on Brain DevelopmentResearchers have developed the first 3D map of gene regulation in the human brain, offering insights into how early brain development influences lifelong mental health. This map, focusing on regions tied to memory and emotional regulation, reveals how chromatin structure controls gene activity, especially during key developmental stages.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·September 25, 2024·4 min readHow the Brain Encodes Time and ExperiencesA new study reveals how specific brain cells in the hippocampus and entorhinal cortex encode time and experiences, helping us form memories and predict future outcomes. These neurons fire in patterns reflecting the order of events, even replaying them after the experience is over. This groundbreaking discovery provides insight into how the brain integrates "what" and "when" information to form lasting memories.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·June 21, 2024·4 min readResilience Linked to Healthier Brain and GutA new study reveals that resilient individuals show improved brain function and healthier gut microbiomes. The research highlights that resilient people have better emotional regulation and lower inflammation. This study is the first to explore the connection between resilience, brain activity, and gut health. The findings suggest potential new treatments targeting both the brain and the gut to reduce stress and prevent disease.Read More
AutismFeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·May 24, 2024·7 min readStudy Links Genetic Risk of Autism to Brain Cell Activityrevealed the most detailed view yet of the biological mechanisms underlying autism, linking genetic risk to cellular and genetic activity in the brain. Researchers used single-cell assays to analyze over 800,000 nuclei from post-mortem brain tissue of individuals with autism and neurotypical controls.Read More
AutismFeaturedNeuroscience·May 23, 2024·5 min readBrain Patterns Predict Autism Risk in InfantsA new study study found distinct brain connectivity patterns in 6-week-old infants at risk for autism. Differences in the Salience Network, responsible for filtering important stimuli, may predict later sensory and social behaviors. Infants with stronger sensory connections showed sensory over-responsivity at age one, while those with stronger social connections demonstrated better shared attention.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·May 18, 2024·5 min readBeyond Politeness: Is “Please” a Politeness Marker or a Strategic Tool?A new study challenges the notion that "please" is a universal marker of politeness. Instead, researchers found it's primarily used when expecting resistance or inconvenience. This suggests "please" is a strategic tool to navigate social interactions rather than a mere politeness marker. The study emphasizes the importance of context and sensitivity in communication, as misusing "please" can backfire.Read More
