Umbilical Cord Blood Test Could Predict Autism Risk

Umbilical Cord Blood Test Could Predict Autism Risk

Summary: A recent study suggests that measuring specific fatty acid metabolites in newborn blood could predict autism spectrum disorder (ASD) risk. Researchers found that higher levels of certain metabolites were linked to increased ASD symptoms in children at six years old. This discovery could lead to early diagnostics and interventions, potentially improving outcomes for children …

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Pathway for Migraine with Aura Discovered

Pathway for Migraine with Aura Discovered

Summary: Researchers have discovered why migraines are often one-sided, revealing that proteins released during aura are carried to pain-signaling nerves via cerebrospinal fluid. This study highlights a novel communication channel between the brain and peripheral sensory nervous system. The findings offer insights into migraine mechanisms and potential new treatments. This breakthrough may lead to better …

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Decoding Mental Health With Advanced Brain Gene Maps

Decoding Mental Health With Advanced Brain Gene Maps

Researchers have created comprehensive maps detailing gene regulation in the brain, shedding light on the genetic factors behind mental disorders such as schizophrenia and depression. This extensive study, supported by the NIH, utilized brain tissues from over 2,500 donors and has been published in a series of 15 papers. Credit: SciTechDaily.com Groundbreaking maps reveal the …

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Study Reveals Shifting Language in Mental Health Over 79 Years

Study Reveals Shifting Language in Mental Health Over 79 Years

Summary: A study of 340,000 texts over 79 years found a shift from terms like “disease” and “disturbance” to “mental health” and “psychiatric,” with “mental illness” now the most-used term. This evolution reflects growing recognition of mental health. The findings highlight the changing language in mental health discourse. Further research is needed to understand the …

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AI-Enhanced VR May Alleviate Public Speaking Anxiety

AI-Enhanced VR May Alleviate Public Speaking Anxiety

Summary: A new study explores using VR and AI to improve public speaking skills and reduce anxiety. PresentationPro simulates realistic presentation settings with AI-driven audience avatars that provide real-time feedback. This approach offers a safe, repeatable environment for practice, potentially benefiting a wide range of users beyond students. Key Facts: PresentationPro uses AI and VR …

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After 180 years, clues reveal how general anaesthesia works in the brain

After 180 years, clues reveal how general anaesthesia works in the brain

How anaesthetic drugs work in the brain has largely remained a mystery since it was introduced into medicine over 180 years ago. | Photo Credit: The Hindu Over 350 million surgeries are performed globally each year. For most of us, it’s likely at some point in our lives we’ll have to undergo a procedure that needs general …

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World’s first head transplant with robotic surgeons? Startup claims ‘revolutionary’ procedure | Trending

World’s first head transplant with robotic surgeons? Startup claims ‘revolutionary’ procedure | Trending

BrainBridge, a neuroscience and biomedical engineering startup from the US, has claimed that they are developing the world’s first head transplant system. According to their website, it is “a groundbreaking device that will represent a landmark achievement in the fields of neuroscience, human engineering, and artificial intelligence.” Snapshot of the procedure of the head transplant. …

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Strong Link Between Teen Cannabis Use and Psychosis Risk

Strong Link Between Teen Cannabis Use and Psychosis Risk

Summary: A new study finds a strong association between teen cannabis use and a significantly increased risk of developing psychotic disorders. This risk appears to be age-dependent, with adolescents being particularly vulnerable to the effects of cannabis on their developing brains. While further research is needed, these findings raise concerns about early cannabis use and …

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Dad’s Gut Bacteria Affects Child’s Health

Dad’s Gut Bacteria Affects Child’s Health

Summary: Researchers uncovered a significant link between the gut microbiota of male mice and the health and survival of their offspring. The research shows that an imbalance in the gut microbiota, induced by antibiotics, can lead to lower birth weights and higher mortality rates in the next generation. The findings highlight a ‘gut-germline axis’ where …

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Myelin Repair Provides Novel Multiple Sclerosis Treatment

Myelin Repair Provides Novel Multiple Sclerosis Treatment

Summary: Researchers discovered a promising treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS) using a novel protein function inhibitor, ESI1, which effectively regenerates myelin—a crucial protective coating on nerve cells that deteriorates in MS. The study showcases that ESI1 reactivates the brain’s capacity to produce myelin, overcoming traditional barriers that have hindered myelin regeneration. This groundbreaking approach was …

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