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Basic neuroscience

Robots achieve consciousness through simulations of evolution

Robots achieve consciousness through simulations of evolution

Can machines attain consciousness — perceiving, feeling, and being conscious of their surroundings? A path toward machine intelligence could be using Darwinian evolution to create artificial brains for mobile, potentially sentient robots. Creating artificial evolution In recent studies, scientists have explored using evolution within computer models to understand intelligence and cognition.

Dogs' sleep waves correlate to their intelligence - the dog g-factor

Dogs' sleep waves correlate to their intelligence - the dog g-factor

Sleep spindles are the name for distinct brain wave patterns observed during sleep. These waves, lasting up to six seconds, are common in non-rapid eye movement (non-REM) sleep and are generated by a specific circuit in the brain (the thalamocortical circuit). While studies on sleep-dependent learning assume a direct, causal

Do amphetamines boost brainpower when used in obesity treatment?

Do amphetamines boost brainpower when used in obesity treatment?

Amphetamines are a category of drugs that are known for their ability to increase dopamine levels in the brain, particularly in areas related to reward and executive function. Executive function is the brain's ability to plan, make decisions, and control impulses to reach goals. This increased dopamine activity

The development of our spine: Growing a tail, then losing it again

The development of our spine: Growing a tail, then losing it again

In the earliest weeks of human development, we grow a tail. The tail’s growth and disappearance is a glimpse into the delicate balance of growth and regression during our creation in the womb. This process, called neurulation, forms the spinal cord and surrounding tissues. Researchers found that the process

Interoception: How brain-body awareness impacts female orgasm

Interoception: How brain-body awareness impacts female orgasm

The orgasm is among the most powerful natural experiences for humans, involving the release of feel-good chemicals in the brain such as dopamine and serotonin. While once debated as irrelevant to women's sexual functioning, new research reveals its importance. Beyond pleasure, orgasms enhance satisfaction, strengthen relationships, and contribute

Do fat levels influence our memory?

Do fat levels influence our memory?

High levels of LDL cholesterol, often called "bad cholesterol," are a well-known risk factor for heart disease. Given the connections between heart health and brain health, it seems logical that cholesterol may also influence memory and thinking skills. While some studies support this idea, the evidence is mixed

How the brain makes shopping decisions

How the brain makes shopping decisions

Online shopping has become a central part of modern life, but the hidden processes that drive our choices remain largely unexplored. But how does the brain help us decide when shopping online? And how is the brain subject to marketing strategies with us brain-owners not even realizing it? This study