science newsletter: Science News SciGuru.com

Σάββατο 13 Ιουλίου 2013

Science News SciGuru.com

Stem cell clues uncovered
Daydreaming simulated by computer model
Brain region implicated in emotional disturbance in dementia patients
Gang members found to suffer unprecedented levels of psychiatric illness

Posted: 13 Jul 2013 04:44 AM PDT

Proper tissue function and regeneration is supported by stem cells, which reside in so-called niches. New work from Carnegie’s Yixian Zheng and Haiyang Chen identifies an important component for regulating stem cell niches, with impacts on tissue building and function. The results could have implications for disease research. It is published by Cell Stem Cell.

Daydreaming simulated by computer model

Posted: 12 Jul 2013 03:31 PM PDT

Scientists have created a virtual model of the brain that daydreams like humans do. Researchers created the computer model based on the dynamics of brain cells and the many connections those cells make with their neighbors and with cells in other brain regions. They hope the model will help them understand why certain portions of the brain work together when a person daydreams or is mentally idle. This, in turn, may one day help doctors better diagnose and treat brain injuries.

Brain region implicated in emotional disturbance in dementia patients

Posted: 12 Jul 2013 08:39 AM PDT

A study by researchers at Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA) is the first to demonstrate that patients with frontotemporal dementia (FTD) lose the emotional content/colour of their memories. These findings explain why FTD patients may not vividly remember an emotionally charged event like a wedding or funeral.

The research team discovered that a region of the brain, called the orbitofrontal cortex, plays a key role in linking emotion and memories.

Gang members found to suffer unprecedented levels of psychiatric illness

Posted: 12 Jul 2013 08:29 AM PDT

Young men who are gang members suffer unprecedented levels of psychiatric illness, placing a heavy burden on mental health services, according to new research led by Queen Mary, University of London.