FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·November 12, 2024·5 min readAfter the Pandemic, Alcohol Use Remains ElevatedU.S. alcohol use increased during the COVID-19 pandemic and has stayed elevated post-pandemic, posing serious health risks. Heavy drinking rose by 20% during the pandemic, and the increase continued in 2022. This trend spanned across most demographics, with the highest rise among adults aged 40-49.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·November 1, 2024·5 min readAir Pollution Linked to Poor Learning and Memory in KidsExposure to ammonium nitrate, a component of fine particulate pollution from agricultural emissions, is associated with reduced learning and memory in children. This type of pollution, also linked to neurodegenerative risks in adults, highlights how air quality impacts brain health across ages.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeurologyNeuroscience·October 21, 2024·5 min readGenetic Variants Linked to Brain Volume Shed Light on ADHD, Parkinson’sA large-scale study identified 254 genetic variants that shape the volume of key brain regions responsible for memory, motor control, and behavior. Researchers analyzed DNA and brain scans from nearly 75,000 people, uncovering links between these variants and conditions like ADHD and Parkinson’s disease.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·October 10, 2024·4 min readCan AI Tackle Abstract Reasoning? Study Tests Cognitive LimitsResearchers tested artificial intelligence’s ability to solve abstract visual puzzles similar to human IQ tests, revealing gaps in AI’s reasoning skills. Open-source AI models struggled, while closed-source models like GPT-4V performed better, but far from perfectly.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·October 4, 2024·7 min read80-Minute Sleep Loss in Teens Exposed to “Forever Chemicals”igher blood levels of four specific types of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as "forever chemicals," are linked to poorer sleep quality in young adults. These chemicals, found in everyday products and the environment, have been shown to disrupt genes responsible for regulating sleep and wake cycles, leading to decreased sleep duration and more sleep disturbances.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·September 26, 2024·7 min readHow Reflexes Shape Smooth MovementResearchers have uncovered how the spinal cord helps modulate reflexes to allow for smooth, voluntary movements. Using simulations, the study shows how circuits within the spinal cord regulate stretch reflexes, preventing disruptions during skilled movements like reaching.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·July 16, 2024·5 min readReflective Thinking Boosts Teen Brain Resilience to ViolenceTeens who engage in "transcendent thinking" can counteract the negative effects of violence exposure on brain development. This type of thinking involves considering broader ethical and societal implications of social issues.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·June 13, 2024·4 min readUnique Brain Activity in Mixed EmotionsResearchers found distinct neural activity in the brain when experiencing mixed emotions like bittersweetness. Using MRI scans, they observed unique patterns in the amygdala and nucleus accumbens, separate from those seen in purely positive or negative emotions.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·June 2, 2024·5 min readParenthood Shrinks Brain Volume but Boosts Engagement in DadsBrain volume decreases in first-time fathers are linked to increased parenting involvement, yet also more sleep problems and mental health issues. This study aligns with earlier findings in mothers, indicating that brain changes might aid in caregiving. Despite potential challenges, active parenting benefits both fathers and children. The findings emphasize the need for supportive policies for new parents.Read More
FeaturedNeurologyNeuroscience·May 29, 2024·8 min readTransparent Skull Implant Enables Advanced Brain ImagingResearchers developed a transparent skull implant allowing high-resolution brain imaging with functional ultrasound (fUSI). This innovative method enables precise monitoring of brain activity without invasive surgery, offering potential benefits for patients with neurological conditions.Read More
FeaturedNeurologyNeuroscience·May 26, 2024·7 min readNostalgic Music Affects the Brain and MemoryNostalgic music activates brain areas linked to memory, reward, and self-processing. This discovery could help improve the quality of life for those with dementia.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·April 16, 2024·5 min readJunk Food Diet in Teens Linked to Long-term Memory IssuesA high-fat, sugary diet during adolescence may cause long-lasting memory impairments. The study found that rats raised on a junk food diet exhibited significant memory deficits that persisted into adulthood, despite switching to a healthier diet.Read More
