Neuropsychology
NR Times explores the latest research developments impacting on neuro-rehab. Biomarker test can detect Alzheimer's pathology earlier A newly developed biomarker test can detect small amounts of tau protein and its misfolded pathological forms that litter the brain, cerebrospinal fluid and potentially blood, years before tau tangles show up in brain scans of patients with [...]
Better understanding key biological pathways that underlie neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), is the goal of a new five-year, US$17.9m grant. Recent studies have identified more than 100 genes that affect neurodevelopmental processes and may increase the likelihood of developing neuropsychiatric conditions. However, it’s not [...]
Scientists have built a detailed map of brain receptors that play a role in conditions such as epilepsy and depression, that could open the door to possible novel ways to treat epilepsy and neurological disorders. Certain proteins found in the human brain have long been known to be critical to controlling how brain cells communicate [...]
New genetic risk factors for depression have been identified across all major global populations for the first time, allowing scientists to predict risk of depression regardless of ethnicity. The world’s largest and most diverse genetic study ever into major depression has revealed nearly 300 previously unknown genetic links to the condition, experts say. 100 of [...]
More than half of 23-year-olds in a European study show restrictive, emotional or uncontrolled eating behaviours, according to new research. Structural brain differences appear to play a role in the development of these eating habits. The study investigates the links between genetics, brain structure and disordered eating behaviours in young people. Researchers found that the [...]
A new study has shown that sleep deprivation can inhibit the brain’s ability to suppress unwanted memories and intrusive thoughts. The study revealed that sleep deprivation interferes with the ability of the prefrontal area of the brain to restrict the retrieval of memories that would have otherwise been suppressed. Dr Scott Cairney from the University [...]
Open-world video games can significantly improve relaxation and mental well-being among postgraduate students, new research has found. Open-world games, known for their expansive environments and player autonomy, offer a form of cognitive escapism that helps players disconnect from daily stressors and enhance their mood. The study, a collaboration between researchers from Imperial College London, United [...]
A new study involving interviews with people who have long-Covid has revealed how the prolonged illness has affected patients’ job status and overall wellbeing. On top of symptoms including brain fog, fatigue, weakness and headaches, study participants reported lacking enough energy to do anything after work, loss of income and added insurance expenses when employment [...]
Researchers in the US have developed a new technique that allows scientists to "sculpt" brain activity patterns, enabling people to learn new visual categories without being explicitly taught. The novel technique could one day lead to better treatment of psychiatric and developmental disorders such as depression or autism. Coraline Iordan is an assistant professor of [...]
A new analysis of MDMA-assisted therapy research suggests that the drug could improve outcomes of treatment of a wider range of trauma-related conditions experienced by military personnel beyond the current focus on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) by increasing a collaborative and trusting relationship between a client and therapist. The review paper explains that even in [...]
