Neuroscience news covering brain research, cognition, neurological disease, imaging, and neural interface advances.
Researchers at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology published findings in Science showing that inducing a hibernation-like state in mice causes significant synaptic loss. Despite this structural change, the animals retained their memories, challenging assumptions about how memory storage relies on stable physical neural hardware.
Binghamton University researchers found that taking screenshots leads to "digital amnesia," where individuals remember images less accurately than those who simply view them. The study suggests passive storage hinders retention unless photos are actively reviewed as cues.
The Indian Express article argues that common physiological reactions like sneezing, yawning, and goosebumps are involuntary nervous system responses designed for protection or adaptation. It cites Dr. Aniruddha More to explain how these mechanisms help expel irritants, regulate alertness, or improve grip.
Allen Institute neuroscientist Christof Koch challenged the prevailing view that consciousness stems from brain activity during a symposium in Portugal. In a new essay, he argues consciousness is a fundamental quality of the universe, urging scientists to develop empirically testable hypotheses based on idealism.
The article argues that climate neuroscience requires more guided and integrated research to understand how rising temperatures affect animal nervous systems. It highlights studies on invasive green crabs and Jonah crabs, suggesting that neural robustness drives species expansion and necessitates coordinated scientific efforts.
New research connects childhood trauma to adult anhedonia, identifying disrupted hippocampal activity as a key driver. The study of 92 participants used surveys and fMRI scans to reveal how early adversity affects brain reward systems.
Hedge fund billionaire Bill Ackman is donating 10 million shares of Pershing Square stock, valued at approximately $400 million, to establish a new brain research center in New York. The donation aims to support advanced treatment and rehabilitation efforts for brain-related conditions, motivated by his daughter Lucy's catastrophic stroke which left her unable to walk, speak, or see.
The Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (Jipmer) has performed its 100th successful epilepsy surgery. To expand treatment capabilities for complex cases, the institute plans to introduce invasive epilepsy monitoring techniques, including Stereo-EEG.