Tuesday, December 27, 2005

The more we know....

MIT researcher finds neuron growth in adult brain

First we thought you never got new brain cells as an adult - then in 1998 that was proven false, and now this.

As much as we think we know - the reality is that we don't know squat. But we're getting more knowledge all the time, so maybe someday it will all begin to fit together.

You've got to be kidding me...

Researchers investigate the case of the disappearing teaspoons

This has nothing to do with brain research - except that some people's brains were clearly bored and needed something to do.

Neuronal baby-steps

New neurons take baby steps in the adult brain

Dropping in Stem-cells or other new cells into an area and just letting them go to work doesn't....well...work. It isn't that easy, you have to know how to make them turn into the cells you want, then you have to convince them to act like the other cells, and interact with them.

All-in-all - a complicated and very unstable process. However, this is definitely good news.

Bigger is better...

Bigger brain size matters for intellectual ability

I seem to remember a number of studies where they concluded that brain size and intelligence didn't matter. This most recent study contradicts the older assumptions.

I'll be interested to see if this gets replicated by other studies in the near future.

More good news on the medical front

New discovery may improve treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and type 2 diabetes

Friday, December 16, 2005

Leap-Frog anyone?

Does baby 'get' tech?

The conclusion of current research? We don't know. There is no evidence that electronic media (games, videos, etc.) actually enhances, or even assists in baby brain development.

They stay that actual time with your baby without tech is still the best.

Those of us with kids roll our eyes and say "Duh!"

Thursday, December 01, 2005

Alzheimer's is a new form of Diabetes?

Alzheimer's: A New Form of Diabetes?

Now, I'm no expert on Alzheimer's, but it seems to me that this could potentially be an incredible breakthrough. If it is indeed a form of diabetes that could provide some clues as to how it could be treated.

Let's stay hopeful that this is a positive development.