How Much Does Loneliness Raise Dementia and Suicide Risk?
Loneliness raises measured risk of Alzheimer’s, suicidal ideation, and completed suicide. The associations are documented; the precise magnitudes are not.
Cognition
Cognitive Function Does Not Predict Response to tDCS for Depression (2023 Trial)
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) has been explored as a potential treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD), particularly for patients who have not responded to traditional treatments like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). This non-invasive technique involves applying a weak electrical current to the prefrontal cortex of the brain, aiming to modulate neurocognitive functions. However, …
Myo-Inositol for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Targeting BATF2 for Epigenetic & Transcriptomic Changes (2024 Study)
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains one of the most challenging conditions for modern neurology, carrying a wide range of long-term consequences that can significantly impair an individual’s quality of life. In a new study, researchers analyzed the epigenetic landscape post-TBI, revealing significant DNA methylation changes in the hippocampus—a crucial area for memory and learning. The …
Effect of A Short Nap on Cognitive Function & Brain Connectivity with Sleep Deprivation (2023 Study)
Sleep deprivation (SD) is a common issue in today’s fast-paced world, leading to temporary cognitive impairments that can significantly affect daily functioning. However, new research reveals that even a short nap following a period of SD can help reverse these impairments to some extent, shedding light on the brain’s remarkable ability to recover. Highlights: Cognitive …
Berberine for Alzheimer’s Disease Treatment: Mechanisms & Efficacy (2023 Review)
In the quest for more effective treatments for Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), berberine, a bioactive compound derived from traditional Chinese medicine, has emerged as a promising candidate. Recent preclinical studies have showcased its potential to combat the debilitating effects of AD, with evidence pointing towards its ability to improve cognitive functions, reduce hallmark AD pathologies such …
Genetics of Common Executive Function (Cognition) from UK Biobank Data (2023 Study)
Executive functioning (EF) is a cognitive cornerstone essential for goal-directed behaviors and complex thinking. Recent research leveraging the massive UK Biobank dataset has shed new light on the genetic underpinnings of EF, revealing its distinct genetic profile from intelligence (IQ) and its intricate link with psychiatric disorders. This study underscores the importance of EF in …
Ultra-Processed Foods (UPF) Linked to Increased Alzheimer’s Disease Risk (2023 Review)
In the modern dietary landscape, ultra-processed foods (UPFs) have become a staple in many diets, celebrated for their convenience and palatability. However, emerging research reveals a concerning association between UPF consumption and increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a leading cause of dementia. Highlights: Strong Link: Recent systematic reviews indicate a strong link between high …