neurology
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Neurologists examine the brain on video games
The New York Times' Bits blogger Matt Richtel recently took part in a University of California at San Francisco study of the brain by playing a "primitive" racing game inside of an MRI machine. This wasn't one of those attempts to show that gaming can improve brain functions, but rather the early stages of a larger project to "measure and map the ethereal concept of attention." Ritchel's brain was observed as he maneuvered around or ignored "distractions" in the game (a multitasking simulation). Personally, we think this science project needs to evolve a bit. Look at that brain! It's bored out of its mind. For real, when there are other researchers out there bringing back giant aurochs from extinction or growing an "alien" form of bacteria, it's on today's scientists to step their game up. At least force test subjects to make some real Split/Second decisions. Following Richtel's playtime in the MRI scanner, Dr. Adam Gazzaley, lead researcher of the UCSF project, concluded that the results were "neither surprising nor novel and consistent with existing literature." Yeah, but what would happen if you threw in an attack helicopter and some exploding barrels? [Image sources: The New York Times; Shutterstock]
Scientists develop implants that melt onto the surface of the brain
Looks like brain implants have just got a lot more effective -- and a lot creepier. Developed by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine in Philadelphia, the new bio-integrated electronics eschew electrodes resembling needles or semi-flexible wires for an ultrathin flexible material that is made partly from silk. Since the new material "essentially melts into place" (scientists compare it to shrink-wrap), it hugs the brain, getting more effective readings than previous technology. It is hoped that the new technology will prove much more effective -- and extremely beneficial for patients with epilepsy, spinal cord injuries, and other neurological disorders. According to John Rogers, Ph.D., the man who invented the flexible electronics at the University of Illinois, "It may also be possible to compress the silk-based implants and deliver them to the brain, through a catheter." We wish these good folks the best of luck with their research -- and we really, really hope that we never have anything shot into our brain with a catheter. PR after the break.
Mice run through Quake, Princeton neuroscientists scan their brains for traces of evil (video)
Want to know just how prevalent technology has become in our lives? Now even lab mice get Quake-derived virtual reality playgrounds to navigate instead of their old school wooden mazes. In all honesty, this appears a significant and praiseworthy advancement, as the Princeton team have succeeded in mapping brain activity right down to the cellular level, with real-time tracking of single neurons now possible. The Orwellian-looking setup above is necessary in order to keep the mouse's head immobile, and thus capable of being studied, while the animal moves around and its brain performs motion-related tasks. Go past the break to see a schematic of the scanner and a quite unmissable video of it in action.[Via Switched]
Neurotic gigs see "pogoing robots" bebop to punk
We'll be straight with you: it's pretty hard to imagine what all will go down at ICA London just weeks from now. Apparently a host of bebopping robots will be on hand to pogo up and down to the melodic sounds of the Punk Voice Choir. Additionally, each night of Neurotic will see a pair of punk bands from across the UK, and the robots in question will reportedly be controlled by "a Neural Network modeled on the neurology of the human brain and educated in punk music." So yeah, if you're in the area July 3rd through 5th and feel like getting your face rocked by a bunch of bobbing bots, let us know just how radically it changes your life.[Via MAKE]
Video games used for therapy
Using NASA technology and video games, the Smart BrainGames system uses neurofeedback to target the symptoms of brain injuries, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and learning difficulties. This heartwarming story of a nine-year-old's recovery, partly involving the system, might mean we'll see more of this sort of treatment in future. At $584 for the system plus up to $2500 for expert supervision, however, it's not to be used lightly.Video games are being used medically in a variety of situations, but doctors don't recommend jumping on the bandwagon just yet. Games like Brain Training have a better chance of making their way on to prescriptions than expensive neurofeedback systems, but as an alternative to established therapies (covered by health insurance), video game-based therapy is still an odd-looking outsider for now.[Via Clickable Culture]
