Showing posts with label Cognition. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Cognition. Show all posts

June 18, 2025

Exploring the Shingles Vaccine, Loneliness, and Dementia

Could protecting yourself from shingles also help safeguard social connections and cognitive health?

Healthy aging involves more than just physical well-being—it encompasses cognitive function and social health as well. Unfortunately, with age comes an increased risk of conditions like dementia and the distressing experience of loneliness. However, new and intriguing research is illuminating unexpected connections between viral infections, vaccination, cognitive decline, and the preservation of meaningful social bonds. [1][2][3]

An older adult happily engaged in a conversation or activity with a younger person, in a community setting.
Staying connected is key to healthy aging. Discover how preventing shingles might also help protect the cognitive health needed to maintain these vital social bonds.

January 16, 2025

The Connection of Glucose Metabolism and Alzheimer's

Exploring the Biological Foundations of Cognitive Decline

Cognitive decline, the gradual loss of mental faculties, is linked to metabolic processes. Research shows that metabolic disorders like insulin resistance and obesity negatively impact brain health, contributing to dementia and Alzheimer's disease

An AI illustration of the brain's glucose metabolism pathway and its disruption in Alzheimer's disease
The brain relies heavily on glucose for energy. Disruptions in glucose metabolism can contribute to the development and progression of Alzheimer's disease.

December 13, 2024

Why Writing by Hand is Better for Memory and Learning

The Science Behind the Benefits of Handwriting

The digital age has ushered in a preference for typing, but the traditional practice of handwriting remains invaluable. Recent studies have highlighted that writing by hand significantly benefits memory and learning. Handwriting activates crucial brain regions involved in learning, suggesting a balanced integration of traditional and digital methods in educational systems could be beneficial.

A detailed view of John Hancock's hand as he uses a quill and ink to inscribe The Declaration of Independence.
People remember information better when they write it down rather than type it.

October 15, 2024

Key Insights Blood Tests Reveal About Your Health

Uncovering Hidden Insights: From Alzheimer's to Heart Disease and More

Blood tests have been a cornerstone of medical diagnostics for decades. Beyond the familiar markers for conditions like anemia and infections, modern technology has expanded the scope of what blood tests can reveal. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the fascinating world of blood biomarkers and explore how these tiny molecules can provide insights into a wide range of health conditions, from Alzheimer's disease to heart disease and beyond.

A doctor examines blood work on a computer
Blood tests can reveal a wealth of information about your health, from common conditions to early signs of serious diseases.

September 21, 2024

Avoidable Factors Driving Dementia Rates: Reduce the Risk

Explore the lifestyle and environmental factors associated with dementia and understand methods to safeguard your brain health.

Dementia represents a progressive deterioration in cognitive abilities and is increasingly recognized as a significant global health issue. Although aging remains the foremost risk factor, research increasingly indicates that numerous dementia cases could be prevented by lifestyle and environmental adjustments. This article examines the complex interplay between preventable factors and dementia incidence, investigating their role in cognitive deterioration and proposing methods to mitigate risk.

A man works out, a woman reads, and two others play cards, all promoting cognitive health and reducing dementia risk.
Participating in diverse stimulating activities, such as reading, socializing, and exercising, can help safeguard your brain and reduce the risk of dementia.

Beyond Neurons: New Hopes in the Fight Against Alzheimer's Disease

Studies Reveals Microglia's Role in Alzheimer's Progression, and the Potential of Shp2

Alzheimer's disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes, has been a major public health concern for decades. While the exact cause remains elusive, a significant focus has been on the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain.

Microglia cells surrounding and consuming beta-amyloid plaques in the brain
Alzheimer's research has mainly targeted neurons, as beta-amyloid plaques in the synaptic spaces disrupt their communication, contributing to cognitive decline and Alzheimer's symptoms.

September 13, 2024

Understanding the Difference Between Alzheimer's and Dementia

Demystifying the Two Most Common Forms of Cognitive Decline


An AI image of a brain scan to compare an Alzheimer's affected brain to a healthy brain.
This AI-generated image illustrates the variance in brain structure between an individual with good brain health and someone with Alzheimer's.

September 10, 2024

Beyond the Brain: The Surprising Intelligence of Simple Cells

How Basic Biological Structures Can Think and Solve Problems

For centuries, we have believed that the human brain is the pinnacle of intelligence. However, recent advancements in neuroscience have challenged this long-held assumption. Scientists are discovering that even the most basic biological structures, such as simple cells, possess remarkable cognitive abilities. This blog post will delve into the fascinating world of simple cell intelligence, exploring how these tiny units can think, learn, and solve problems.

A human brain compared to a neural network in a petri dish.
The human brain is a complex network of neurons that processes information and controls actions. In contrast, basic neural networks are simplified models that mimic some brain functions. Despite their limitations, these artificial networks show promise in machine learning and robotics.

August 16, 2024

CRISPR: Beyond the Hype - Challenges and the Road Ahead

Navigating the Complexities of Gene Editing Technology

CRISPR is a powerful tool that has changed the way scientists think about genetics. It allows researchers to edit DNA with remarkable precision, offering the promise of cures for diseases and advancements in agriculture. 

A scientist gazes at a city skyline teeming with possibilities and question marks, symbolizing the future of CRISPR.
The future of CRISPR represents a path laden with both obstacles and prospects. Looking forward to the advancements in CRISPR technology, we encounter a terrain rife with challenges yet brimming with promising opportunities.

July 30, 2024

Shingles Vaccine and Body Fat: Surprising Dementia Allies

New Research Links Recombinant Shingles Vaccine to Delayed Dementia Onset and Reveals Surprising Connection Between Body Fat Distribution and Cognitive Decline

Dementia encompasses a range of conditions marked by a decline in cognitive abilities that disrupt daily activities. Alzheimer's disease, the most prevalent type of dementia, impacts millions globally. With an aging population, dementia is increasingly becoming a significant public health issue.

A person receiving a shingles vaccine, with a brain icon indicating a potential link to reduced dementia risk.
New research suggests that the shingles vaccine may help protect against dementia.

July 27, 2024

Mind Over Matter: Brain's Control Over the Immune System

Recent research is confronting the mind-body problem and its impact on global health concerns.

Recent research is currently focusing on the mind-body problem and its impact on global health issues. These studies are examining the complex link between mental and physical well-being, investigating how this connection impacts overall health worldwide. The findings of this research are significant, as they provide understanding of how our mental health can impact our physical well-being and vice versa, potentially leading to more holistic approaches to healthcare.

The mind-body problem, a philosophical puzzle that has puzzled thinkers for centuries, revolves around the interaction between the intangible mind and the physical body. While this question has traditionally been considered a matter of metaphysics, recent scientific advancements are shedding new light on the complex relationship between the brain and the body's immune system. 

Brain and immune system cell intertwined, symbolizing the mind-body connection.
New research suggests the brain may have more control over the immune system than previously thought.

July 18, 2024

Imagination: How Our Minds Shape Our Reality

Our imagination is an exceptional and formidable tool that empowers us in the eternal struggle between our minds and the tangible world.

Imagination is a powerful tool in the constant interplay between our thoughts and the physical world. It acts as a dynamic force, allowing us to mold our reality and overcome boundaries. Let's explore the significant role of imagination in mastering the intricacies of life.

A striking visual representation showcases a colossal brain emitting lightning bolts above rows of robotic figures, illustrating the ongoing conflict between our mental capacities and the tangible reality that surrounds us.
Imagination is a powerful ally in navigating the struggle between our inner thoughts and external realities. It equips us with creative tools to overcome challenges and envision possibilities, helping us transcend limitations and foster resilience and innovation.

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