FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·June 27, 2023·6 min readBrain Chemical Imbalance Detected in OCDResearchers discovered a neurochemical imbalance in the brains of patients with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Using magnetic resonance spectroscopy, they found a disrupted balance between neurotransmitters glutamate and GABA in two specific regions of the frontal lobes.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·June 27, 2023·5 min readNeuronal Secrets of Number ProcessingResearchers developed an innovative method to measure human brain activity at the cellular level, unveiling how our brain processes numbers. Utilizing microelectrodes during “awake” brain surgery, the researchers found that individual neurons specialize in handling specific numbers, becoming especially active when their "preferred" number is presented.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·June 27, 2023·5 min readBrain Imaging Unveils Multiple Subtypes of Major Depressive DisorderA recent study identified multiple subtypes of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) using brain imaging. Over 2,000 participants were involved in the study, which analyzed functional connectivity in the brain.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·June 26, 2023·4 min readSense of Purpose May Shield Against LonelinessA sense of purpose in life, irrespective of its nature, can be a robust defense against loneliness. A new study, involving over 2,300 Swiss adults, found fewer instances of loneliness among individuals who led a purposeful life.Read More
FeaturedNeurologyNeuroscience·June 26, 2023·6 min readLiver Scars Link to Cognitive DeclineResearchers identified a significant correlation between liver fibrosis, a symptom of chronic liver diseases, and reduced cognitive abilities, possibly mediated by inflammation. Findings hint at a liver-brain axis, underscoring the interconnectedness of physical and mental health.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·June 26, 2023·6 min readSix Degrees of Connection: A Mathematical Take on Social TiesScientists used mathematics to explain the social phenomenon of six degrees of separation. Their work suggests that the balance between the cost and benefit of maintaining social connections shapes the global human social network.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·June 26, 2023·4 min readThe Psychology of Conspiracy Theorists: More Than Just ParanoiaA new study delves into the intricate psyche of conspiracy theorists, attributing their beliefs to a mixture of personality traits and motivations. The study suggests conspiracy theorists are not necessarily 'mentally unwell', but often resort to conspiracy theories to fulfill unmet needs and rationalize distress.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·June 26, 2023·3 min readNew Neural Pathway to Combat Fentanyl Addiction IdentifiedResearchers reveal the significant role of claustral neurons in controlling fentanyl consumption. The study, harnessing a novel method that mirrors real-life opioid intake scenarios, opens new avenues in our understanding of addiction and potential treatments.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·June 26, 2023·6 min readA Fading Sense of Smell: New Predictor of Late-Life Depression?Researchers identified a correlation between loss of smell and an increased risk of developing late-life depression. The study, spanning eight years and involving more than 2,000 older adults, doesn't establish causality but suggests that an impaired sense of smell might indicate overall health and well-being.Read More
AutismFeaturedNeuroscience·June 26, 2023·7 min readGut Instincts: Microbiome’s Role in Autism RevealedA new study provides novel insights into the relationship between the human microbiome and autism. Using an innovative computational approach, researchers reanalyzed previous data sets, finding a unique microbial signature in autistic individuals that could help distinguish them from neurotypical individuals.Read More
FeaturedNeurologyNeuroscience·June 25, 2023·6 min readA Power Nap a Day May Keep Brain Aging at BayHabitual daytime napping could help preserve brain health and slow down the brain shrinkage that comes with aging. Using Mendelian randomisation and examining DNA snippets, researchers linked napping to larger total brain volume, a known indicator of brain health and dementia risk reduction.Read More
FeaturedNeurologyNeuroscience·June 25, 2023·3 min readThis Week’s Top Neuroscience News Discoveries: June 25, 2023Explore this week's remarkable neuroscience advancements, including potential new effective treatments for tinnitus and the identification of a brain region associated with self awareness.Read More
