tech, startups, internet
The microbots are on the way
“Tiny sensors with tinier legs, stamped out of silicon wafers, could one day soon help fix your cellphone battery or study your brain.” | learn more
Tag: brain
under the microscope
FDA approves new antidepressant containing ketamine
“Esketamine represents the first depression drug in years to be approved that works via a completely different mechanism in the brain, as compared to the previous generation of medications. For many with treatment-resistant depression, the new drug offers newfound hope […]
under the microscope
The brain that remade itself.
“How one child’s brain is providing insights into the incredible ways the brain rebuilds thanks to neuroplasticity.” |learn more
better doing
Why your brain needs idle time.
A great reminder to step back and let off the gas regularly. “Research suggests that idle time, where the brain is wandering, is critical for complex mental processing.” | learn more
under the microscope
Germs in your gut are talking to your brain.
This is from the NYT, so not quite as technical as typical articles in this section. “The body’s microbial community may influence the brain and behavior, perhaps even playing a role in dementia, autism and other disorders.” | learn more
under the microscope
The brain maps out ideas and memories like spaces.
“Emerging evidence suggests that the brain encodes abstract knowledge in the same way that it represents positions in space, which hints at a more universal theory of cognition.” | learn more
under the microscope
Study links nutrients in blood to better brain function
The interesting thing to me here is the methodology. They used nutrient biomarkers in blood instead of surveys to understand diet, and fMRI scans rather cognitive tests to understand brain activity. “A new [University of Illinois] study links higher levels […]
fun facts
Some people have slightly squashed heads thanks to Neanderthal DNA.
“Many people carry Neanderthal DNA that can affect brain cell growth and the insulation around neurons – and that may have a small impact on brain performance” | learn more
under the microscope
Brain-to-brain communication is coming.
Holy cow! These researchers managed to send information from one brain directly to another without the usual step of drilling into skulls. Seems like a big deal to me. | learn more
better doing
How your brain decides without you.
You may already know, but cannot be reminded too often, that your brain’s priority is not truth, but rather narrative consistency. | learn more