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Subtle Differences In Brain Cells Hint at Why Many Drugs Help Mice But Not People
By: Jon Hamilton | NPR
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A detailed comparison of mouse and human brain tissue found differences that could help explain why mice aren’t always a good model for human diseases.
A Genetic Test That Reveals Alzheimer’s Risk Can Be Cathartic Or Distressing
By: Jon Hamilton | NPR
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Genetic tests can now tell us a lot about our risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease. But that doesn’t mean people are prepared to receive the information.
Decoded Brain Signals Could Give Voiceless People A Way To Talk
By: Jon Hamilton | NPR
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Scientists have found a way to transform electrical signals in the brain into intelligible speech. The advance may help people paralyzed by a stroke or disease, but the technology is experimental.
Ketamine May Relieve Depression By Repairing Damaged Brain Circuits
By: Jon Hamilton | NPR
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Scientists are learning how the party drug ketamine relieves depression so quickly — and why its effects fade over time.
Scans Show Female Brains Remain Youthful As Male Brains Wind Down
By: Jon Hamilton | NPR
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Researchers say the metabolism of a woman’s brain remains higher than a man’s throughout a lifetime. And that may help with late-life creativity and learning.
Scientists Find A Brain Circuit That Could Explain Seasonal Depression
By: Jon Hamilton | NPR
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Research suggests the winter blues are triggered by specialized light-sensing cells in the retina that communicate directly with brain areas involved in mood.
Researchers Uncover A Circuit For Sadness In The Human Brain
By: Jon Hamilton | NPR
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When people are feeling glum, it often means that brain areas involved in emotion and memory are communicating. Researchers have now observed the circuit in action in humans.
Active Ingredient In Marijuana Reduced Alzheimer’s-Like Effects In Mice
By: Jon Hamilton | NPR
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In mice genetically programmed to develop Alzheimer’s symptoms, those given a synthetic version of a chemical in marijuana retained normal memory function.
The Underestimated Cerebellum Gains New Respect From Brain Scientists
By: Jon Hamilton | NPR
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A brain structure that helps us walk in a straight line also appears to play a central role in emotional control and decision-making. The findings about the cerebellum challenge years of dogma.
Worried About Dementia? You Might Want to Check Your Blood Pressure
By: Jon Hamilton | NPR
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A new public health campaign says controlling high blood pressure is among the best ways to keep your brain sharp. The neurologist in charge aims to lead by example.