Super resolution microscopy may help to provide a better understanding of the structure and functions of the brain.
High resolution imaging reveals the human cerebellum is 80% of the area of the cortex. The findings indicate this area of the brain likely grew larger as human behavior and cognition evolved.
Oxytocin, a hormone commonly associated with love and bonding in humans, causes starfish to turn their stomachs inside-out to feed. The findings provide vital new evidence for the evolutionary role of oxytocin and vasopressin neuropeptides as regulators of feeding in animals.
Male patients on the autism spectrum who were given oxytocin for four weeks experienced improvements in social attachment behaviors for up to 12 months.
Researchers report they can use brain activation patterns to identify complex thoughts. Their findings suggest the building blocks for complex human thoughts are not word based, but formed by the brain's sub systems. The study provides evidence that the neural dimensions of concept representation are universal across people and languages.
Simulation neurons found in the amygdala allow animals to reconstruct the mental state of social partners and predict intentions. Dysfunction in these newly identified neurons may be involved in disorders associated with social behavioral problems, such as autism and social anxiety.
Neurons in the amygdala derive object values based on observations and use the values to simulate a social partner's decision making.
A new computerized 'mirror game' has been shown to give more accurate diagnosis of schizophrenia than clinical interviews, a new study reports.
Researchers have identified four new genes that act independently as risk factors for multiple sclerosis.
Early risers have significantly weaker sleep spindle activity than those who prefer to stay up late at night, a new study reveals.
Researchers reveal the area of the brain that controls our voice box, allowing us to alter the pitch of our speech. The insight could pave the way for advancing neuroprosthetics to allow people who can't speak, to express themselves in a naturalistic way.
DMT, an active compound of the psychedelic Ayahuasca, is naturally occurring in the mammalian brain, researchers have discovered. The study revealed DMT levels increased significantly in the rat visual cortex following cardiac arrest.
