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Yale

·October 14, 2024·3 min read

Brain Networks Vary in Structure-Function Link

Researchers reveal that the relationship between brain structure and function varies significantly across different brain regions. In primary sensory and motor regions, neuron wiring strongly predicts function, while in regions associated with complex cognition, this link weakens. Using data from 300 brain functions, the study found that advanced cognitive functions rely less on direct neural connections, suggesting evolutionary adaptation.

Featured Neuroscience

·October 5, 2024·4 min read

First Gut Microbiome Map for Personalized Food Responses

A recent study has mapped how molecules in food interact with gut bacteria, revealing why people respond differently to the same diets. By examining 150 dietary compounds, researchers found that these molecules can reshape gut microbiomes in some individuals, while having little effect in others.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·September 30, 2024·5 min read

AI Tools Predict Future Depression Symptoms from Word Choice

A new study has found that analyzing a person’s word choice can predict worsening symptoms of major depressive disorder. Researchers used human evaluators and ChatGPT to assess written responses, finding that both could accurately predict depression severity weeks later.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·September 27, 2024·5 min read

Unexpected Sounds Boost Dopamine, Leading to Riskier Decisions

A new study shows that unexpected sounds can cause dopamine bursts in the brain, which may lead to riskier decision-making. Researchers found that participants were 4% more likely to choose risky options after hearing a surprising tone. These findings highlight how unrelated sensory events, like sounds, can influence choices, shedding light on the role dopamine plays in decision-making.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·September 25, 2024·4 min read

Shared Brain Activity Patterns Linked to Behavior Identified

Scientists have uncovered stable patterns of brain activity across more than 300 individuals by reducing the complexity of fMRI data. These shared activity patterns, consistent across participants, may reveal biomarkers for psychiatric disorders and provide insight into individual differences in behavior.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience Psychology

·September 22, 2024·3 min read

100+ Genes Linked to Anxiety Disorders Identified

A large-scale genetic study involving over 1 million participants has uncovered more than 100 genes associated with anxiety. Researchers found that these genes contribute to the development of anxiety disorders and are also linked to other mental and physical health conditions, such as depression and gastrointestinal disorders.

Featured Neuroscience

·September 8, 2024·5 min read

Brain Activity in Craving Shown to Vary Rapidly

Researchers have developed a dynamic method to track rapid brain activity changes, especially related to craving. Unlike traditional neuroimaging, which captures only a snapshot of brain activity, this approach provides a real-time view of how craving fluctuates.

Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience

·August 28, 2024·4 min read

Increase in Protein Linked to Salt Intake Implicated in Multiple Sclerosis

Researchers have uncovered that increased levels of the protein PRDM1-S, triggered by high salt intake, disrupt immune regulation and contribute to autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS). This discovery reveals how environmental factors, such as diet, can influence genetic mechanisms, leading to T cell dysfunction. The findings suggest that targeting PRDM1-S could lead to new treatments for a range of autoimmune disorders.

Featured Neuroscience

·August 16, 2024·7 min read

Neurons Wire Together in Early Brain Development Through Spontaneous Activity

Researchers discovered that spontaneous brain activity during early development drives neural wiring before sensory experiences shape the brain. This spontaneous activity in neurons strengthens connections, following Hebb's rule, where "cells that fire together wire together."

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·June 13, 2024·6 min read

Study Links Brain Region to Paranoia

Researchers discovered that a specific brain region, the mediodorsal thalamus, may provoke feelings of paranoia. By aligning data from studies on monkeys and humans, they found that lesions in this brain region led to erratic behavior and increased perceptions of environmental volatility.

Featured Neuroscience Visual Neuroscience

·June 3, 2024·4 min read

Brain Regions Key to Social Gaze Identified

Researchers discovered two brain regions crucial for social gaze in primates. Stimulating the orbitofrontal cortex increased eye contact duration and responsiveness, while the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex influenced long-term gaze patterns. These findings can inform therapies for social behavior challenges in disorders like autism.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·June 2, 2024·10 min read

Long COVID Brain Fog: Impact and Coping Strategies

Long COVID, affecting 7% of U.S. adults, often includes debilitating brain fog. Symptoms like forgetfulness and difficulty focusing affect daily life and work. A new study highlights that while brain fog often resolves, it significantly impacts mental function. Effective coping strategies and treatments are crucial for managing this condition.