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University of Cambridge

·October 8, 2024·5 min read

Brainstem Inflammation Linked to Long-Covid Symptoms

New research shows that severe Covid-19 infection can cause inflammation in the brainstem, potentially leading to prolonged symptoms like fatigue, breathlessness, and anxiety. Using ultra-high-resolution 7-Tesla MRI scanners, scientists observed specific brainstem areas associated with these symptoms, highlighting how immune response post-infection might affect brain health.

Featured Neuroscience

·August 21, 2024·5 min read

Probiotic During Pregnancy May Boost Fetal Brain Development

A study in mice shows that the probiotic Bifidobacterium breve, when taken by mothers during pregnancy, enhances fetal brain development by improving nutrient transport and growth processes. The findings suggest that altering the maternal gut microbiome with probiotics could be a non-pharmaceutical strategy to support healthy fetal growth, particularly in cases of fetal growth restriction. Further research is needed to confirm these effects in humans and explore how probiotics interact with other gut bacteria during pregnancy.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·August 9, 2024·5 min read

Brain Scans Improve Concussion Care by Predicting Lasting Symptoms

Advanced MRI scans, particularly diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), have shown promise in predicting which concussion patients are at risk for long-term symptoms. While standard CT scans often fail to detect brain abnormalities in concussion cases, DTI can identify subtle changes in the brain’s white matter that are linked to persistent symptoms. This method could significantly improve the accuracy of prognoses, helping to identify patients who may need further follow-up and treatment. Researchers also found that specific blood biomarkers could help determine which patients would benefit most from a DTI scan.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·July 17, 2024·5 min read

Mindfulness Can Induce Altered States of Consciousness

Mindfulness training can lead to altered states of consciousness, such as disembodiment and unity. Researchers found that participants were twice as likely to experience these states compared to a control group. While these experiences can be positive, they may also be startling or unpleasant. Mindfulness teachers and students should discuss these potential side effects.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·July 13, 2024·7 min read

AI Predicts Alzheimer’s Progression

A new AI tool predicts Alzheimer's progression with 82% accuracy using cognitive tests and MRI scans, outperforming current methods. This tool could reduce the need for costly tests and improve early intervention. Alzheimer's disease is the main cause of dementia, affecting over 55 million people worldwide.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience Psychology

·July 2, 2024·6 min read

Oxytocin’s Link to Obesity and Postnatal Depression

A new study has identified the TRPC5 gene as a cause of obesity, behavioral issues, and postnatal depression. Researchers found that missing or impaired TRPC5 genes disrupt oxytocin neurons, crucial for regulating appetite and emotions. This discovery offers potential new treatments, like using oxytocin to alleviate symptoms. The findings emphasize the biological basis of certain behaviors and conditions.

Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience

·June 5, 2024·4 min read

Genetic Clues to Restless Leg Syndrome Uncovered

Scientists have discovered over 140 new genetic risk loci linked to restless leg syndrome (RLS), offering insights into its causes and potential treatments. This significant advancement could help identify those at greatest risk and improve management strategies.

Featured Neuroscience

·May 29, 2024·8 min read

Third Thumb: Public Quickly Adapts to Controllable Extra Thumb

Researchers found that people easily learned to use a controllable, prosthetic "Third Thumb" for manipulating objects. The device, tested on a diverse group, enhances motor capabilities and shows promise for both productivity and aiding those with disabilities. The study highlights the importance of inclusive design in developing new technologies.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·May 11, 2024·6 min read

Wrap Around Spinal Cord Device May Transform Injury Treatment

Researchers developed a groundbreaking electronic device that wraps around the spinal cord, offering a new method for treating spinal injuries without the need for brain surgery. This device can record and stimulate nerve signals across the entire spinal cord, providing a complete 360-degree view of spinal activity.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·April 28, 2024·5 min read

Tiny Robotic Nerve Cuffs Promise Breakthrough in Neurocare

Researchers developed innovative, flexible devices that can gently wrap around nerve fibers, potentially transforming the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders. These tiny, flexible "nerve cuffs" employ soft robotics and flexible electronics to interface with peripheral nerves without causing damage.

This shows a researcher looking at a computer screen.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·April 17, 2024·5 min read

AI Revolutionizes Hunt for Parkinson’s Treatments

Researchers employed AI to fast-track the discovery of treatments for Parkinson's disease. They utilized machine learning techniques to screen millions of compounds and successfully identified five promising candidates that prevent the harmful clumping of alpha-synuclein, a key protein in Parkinson’s pathology.

Auditory Neuroscience Featured Neuroscience

·February 27, 2024·6 min read

Imperfect Harmony: Rethinking Pythagoras’ Musical Consonance

New research challenges Pythagoras's ancient theory on musical consonance, revealing our preference for slight imperfections in chords rather than the perfect integer ratios traditionally associated with beautiful music. The study highlights how the mathematical relationships deemed crucial for a chord's beauty disappear with instruments unfamiliar to Western traditions, such as the Javanese gamelan's bonang.