Scientists at Columbia have developed a model to help explain how the biological complexity of the brain allows it to create new memories while maintaining older memories for years, or even a lifetime. The new model may help researchers design more targeted memory studies and could lead to the development of powerful computing systems based on the human brain.

The biological and chemical processes involved in memory have been studied extensively. It is widely believed that memories are stored in synapses—tiny structures on the surface of neurons in the brain. The connection between neurons allows memories to form—strong connections create powerful memories; weak connections create vague memories.

This new model shows that memory capacity is greater than previously thought, due in part to the ability of synapses in the brain to function independently of each other, as well as communicate with each other. Researchers hope that these discoveries will lead to a more complete, more detailed characterization of the brain.

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Sourced from: ScienceDaily, How the brain makes new memories while preserving the old

Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia can cause personality changes, agitation, and aggression. In some nursing homes and senior facilities around the U.S., a controversial method called doll therapy is being used to ease anxiety in people with dementia.

Supporters of the therapy—in which patients hold, change, dress, and even talk and sing to dolls—claim that it calms patients, reduces distress, and gives patients a sense of attachment. Caregivers who use doll therapy say the technique can help engage patients and improve communication. People with dementia often cannot participate in activities they once enjoyed and can become unhappy and bored. Some caregivers use the dolls as a way to talk to patients about their own children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Others argue that the therapy is demeaning to patients and infantilizes intelligent, educated older adults. Caregivers who oppose doll therapy often prefer to use brain games and art/music therapy to reach their patients and maintain their dignity. Doll therapy research is limited, but some studies show it may reduce the need for medications and lessen agitation, aggression, and wandering in people with dementia.

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Sourced from: NPR, Doll Therapy May Help Calm People With Dementia, But It Has Critics

Mindfulness, or mindful meditation, which is rooted in prayer and religious practice—specifically Buddhism—has recently gained popularity. According to supporters, maintaining a moment-by-moment awareness of our thoughts, sensations, and environment can improve health in a number of ways.

A recent study published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience shows that mindful meditation can be a way to control negative emotions. The study involved 68 women who had never practiced mindfulness. Participants attended one of two 18-minute activities—one group listened to guided meditation, and the other group attended a language-learning session.

Following each activity, participants were shown disturbing images while brain activity was measured and recorded using EEG. They then were asked to complete a questionnaire about their emotions. According to researchers, people who attended the meditation session were able to control negative emotions caused by looking at the disturbing images faster than people in the other study group.

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Sourced from: MNT, Mindfulness meditation helps to control emotions, says study