MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'brain training'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 02:11:54 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5028850&cid=t_153005_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FsEGxDyb8wJY%2F Remember all those times you tried to meditate? Sitting cross-legged on the floor with one eye on the clock, trying unsuccessfully to stop your mind from repeating that song you heard on the way home (“Don’t hate me ‘cuz I’m beautiful…”). Even a few minutes of this can feel like sheer torture. People who meditate regularly swear by its tranquil effects, but if you’re not one of them, the latest research tidbit may reignite your interest in trying: Orgasm and meditation create the same effect in our brains. No, that doesn’t mean you’re going to get all hot and bothered during meditation, and inappropriate, naked meditation is not going to become the new fad, but it’s interesting to know that these two acts have similar mind-alterin... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5028850 Thu, 14 Jul 2011 17:00:35 +0100 5028850 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4960202&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FKL0ko4TEcXU%2F A couple of very interesting recent announcements show (in a military context) how well-targeted brain training can complement and augment existing approaches, both to help “normal” and “clinical” populations, in ways that silo-based, rear-mirror thinking often misses: U.S. Department of Defense Awards $2 Million to Brain Plasticity Inc. to Study Impact of Brain Training for Traumatic Brain Injuries (press release): “Brain Plasticity Inc. (BPI), a technology incubator dedicated to the discovery and development of novel technologies that harness the basic principles of brain plasticity to improve the lives of people with neurological and psychiatric disorders, was recently awarded a $2 million grant from the United States Department of Defense.” “The grant will fund a two-year... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4960202 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 11:21:27 +0100 4960202 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4934549&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2Furd0ifGFTWU%2F Very interesting new study on computerized cognitive training (or brain training), well summarized in LA Times article Memory training improves intelligence in some children, report says. Quote: The training program used by Jaeggi and co-workers focused on ramping up working memory: the ability to hold in mind a handful of information bits briefly, and to update them as needed. Cognitive scientists consider working memory a key component of intelligence. But they have long debated whether strengthening short-term memory capacity will boost a person’s overall intellectual function, and will do so even after the brain-training sessions are over. It can, and it does, according to this new research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The full study, Short-term... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4934549 Tue, 14 Jun 2011 11:55:54 +0100 4934549 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4883743&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FHmvYXZVd7PY%2F The use of a variety of brain training interventions is growing in the area of mental health. Emerging evidence suggests that in the near future targeted brain training may even be used to prevent substance abuse. For example, training working memory may reduce sub­stance abusers’ discounting of long-term rewards and punishments — such discounting is one of the reasons why people susceptible to addictions do not benefit from traditional informational/ educational approaches to drug prevention. Let’s explore some expanding applications of brain training, and much more, in this latest edition of the monthly Sharp­Brains eNewslet­ter. Brain Training and Mental Health ADHD: Brain Training, Neurofeedback, Diet, and More: What can be done to fight ADHD and improve the lives of peo­pl... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4883743 Tue, 31 May 2011 11:04:42 +0100 4883743 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4872262&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FJBtYpGEKoSg%2F Substance abuse can have dramatic consequences on the brain and behavior. The traditional way of preventing drug abuse is often education. Awareness programs do work with people who can picture long-term repercussions of abusing drugs. Other people, most often those vulnerable to addictions, do not benefit from such programs. It seems that they tend to devalue both rewards and punishments that will happen in the future, a behavior known as delay discounting. This leads them to opt for immediate rewards, such as those provided by drugs, and ignore future consequences. Would it be possible then to train the brain of these people so that they show less delay discounting? Would that help them stay away from addictive substances? Delay discounting is a brain function that involves the frontal l... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4872262 Thu, 26 May 2011 16:14:50 +0100 4872262 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4862729&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2Fr2TpIHXFofg%2F If you practice biceps curls at the gym, you will get bigger muscles that are also stronger. So far, the same seemed true for the brain. Thanks to neuroplasticity, practice triggers neuronal and synaptic growth (i.e., brain volume growth), which correlates with better performance. In this fascinating Scientific American article we learn that as the brain masters a new skill, some brain areas do get bigger but eventually shrink back to normal! The performance gain acquired through practice stays present, in spite of the shrinkage. Studying the auditory cortex of rats, they found that the expansion of a ‘skill-specific’ brain area with training is only short lived, even when changes in ability are long lasting. So what does change? Although newly learned perceptual skills don’t show up... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4862729 Tue, 24 May 2011 18:49:56 +0100 4862729 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4848048&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FE5U30HPur8M%2F ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, affects millions of children and adults (up to 5% of children in the US).  More and more evidence suggests that brain training may be key to help these individuals. With this in mind, we put together our most recent articles on the topic to  a) help you better understand what is going in the brain of a person with ADHD, and b) provide you with up-to-date information on what can be done to fight the disorder and improve the lives of people suffering from it. We particularly thank Dr. Rabiner from Duke Uni­ver­sity for writing many of these articles. What is ADHD? What kind of attention is involved in ADHD? ADHD may be considered as a problem in the willful control of attention as opposed to a pure deficit in the ability to pay attent... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4848048 Fri, 20 May 2011 20:02:10 +0100 4848048 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4803320&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F75FcWMqfLxc%2F Individuals suffering from schizophrenia show social cognitive deficits, that is difficulties in perceiving and understanding the social world. Research shows that schizophrenia is accompanied by social cognition problems such as problems identifying facial expressions, understanding and responding to social cues (e.g., body language), understanding that others have different mental states and thoughts than oneself (also called Theory of mind). These deficits are usually persistent over time and resist pharmacological treatment. Interestingly, social cognition may be trainable. This recent article reviews the research and shows that social cognitive training programs : produce a moderate to large improvement in the recognition of facial emotions produce a smaller improvement in Theory of ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4803320 Mon, 09 May 2011 18:23:19 +0100 4803320 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4789447&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FYaFAHUra1Jg%2F Chemo brain or chemo fog refers to the cognitive changes that can occur during and after chemotherapy. These changes may translate into memory lapses, motor problems, difficulty finding words and problems managing multiple tasks and learning new things. Although the causes of the phenomenon are still under debate, it is nonetheless a real problem, affecting 20% to 30% of breast cancer patients who undergo chemotherapy. This New York Time article reports that chemo brain effects may be longer lasting than originally thought. “Chemo brain,” the foggy thinking and forgetfulness that cancer patients often complain about after treatment, may last for five years or more for a sizable percentage of patients, new research shows. The study, published in The Journal of Clinical Oncology, is a vi... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4789447 Thu, 05 May 2011 15:38:14 +0100 4789447 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4775495&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=38275&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drjonathanreed.co.uk%2Fwordpress%2F2011%2F05%2Fhow-to-improve-memory%2F Neuropsychologists have studied memory for a long time.   We have a clear system of memory classification involving declarative memory which includes episodic memory (memory for events) and semantic memory (memory for facts) and non declarative memory which includes more implicit systems such as procedural memory, classical conditioning and priming.  The neurological substrates of this system are understood.  Numerous case studies of individuals with brain injury and memory disturbance have been reported.   The whole enterprise is best summarised by one of the leading researchers Larry Squire in this excellent paper Memory and brain systems 1969-2009 . Yet despite all this knowledge I struggle to see the relevance for the many children I see with memory and learning difficulties.  I w... Child Neuropsychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4775495 Mon, 02 May 2011 16:49:17 +0100 4775495 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4676941&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=35373&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmerzenich.positscience.com%2F%3Fp%3D255 I had the great pleasure of visiting a wonderful research team studying the neurological origins and treatment of tinnitus at Washington University Medical School in St. Louis last week.  About 30 million U.S. citizens have tinnitus.  For about 4 million of them, the tinnitus is identified as “severe” – which means [...] (Source: On the Brain by Dr. Michael Merzenich, Ph.D.) On the Brain by Dr. Michael Merzenich, Ph.D. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4676941 Mon, 04 Apr 2011 18:46:40 +0100 4676941 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4631562&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FFOBERNYpykU%2F As announced by the NIMH a few months ago, schizophrenia can now be considered as a brain disorder. Research is focusing on the cognitive deficits as the main problem of the disorder, probably preceding and perhaps leading to the symptoms of hallucinations and delusions. A recent article in the Psychiatric Times reviews the different cognitive remediation techniques used with people suffering from schizophrenia. This is of interest to anybody working on mental health. Indeed, as Sophia Vino­gradov, Interim Vice Chair Psy­chi­a­try at UCSF will discuss during the SharpBrains Summit (next week!) schizophrenia is leading the way in understanding how to identify and address brain-based cognitive deficits associated with the disorder. …most [Cognitive Remediation (CR) programs] are now c... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4631562 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 16:48:44 +0100 4631562 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4532379&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FsdlqkXmDu3M%2F This study supports that patients with vit­a­min D defi­ciency show an increased risk of cog­ni­tive decline. Baby Sleeps and Brain Development: How much sleep a 12 month old baby gets can influ­ence the devel­op­ment of his/her exec­u­tive func­tions. PTSD: Can we Disrupt the Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories? A discussion of the dif­fer­ent tech­niques used/ under research that can help PTSD patients. ; Books and Summit Updates Visual Illusions in Art and Science: These surprising classic illusions illustrate how art and magic can help science in undertansing how we perceive the world around us. 2011 SharpBrains Summit Agenda: You can now view the latest Agenda for the whole Summit and a 3-minute clip to learn how the SharpBrains Virtual Sum­mit: Retooling Brai... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4532379 Mon, 28 Feb 2011 22:07:18 +0100 4532379 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4507427&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F3ESQXRW2Tms%2F Cognitive performance can be improved but people vary in their ability to do so. It is not clear yet how to assess who will benefit the most from training and the cognitive tests used in the past were not very good at predicting this.   Dr. Kramer and his colleagues recently showed that the brain activity in a specific part of the brain (the dorsal striatum) at the start of training in a complex video-game could accurately predict how well people will benefit from the training.  Thirty-four young adults with little experience in playing video games were trained to play a complex video game called Space Fortress. After initial instruction, they played the game while their brains were being scanned using fMRI. For the next three to eight weeks (38 days on average) they completed ten two-... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4507427 Tue, 22 Feb 2011 16:33:25 +0100 4507427 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4482876&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F_yJ4wQY3NAs%2F We’re delighted to add Brain Resource to the roster of Sponsors of the upcoming 2011 SharpBrains Summit, and the Center for  Technology and Aging and the Brain Injury Association of Canada to the roster of Partners. Thank you for your support! New Sponsor Brain Resource brings new insights and new efficiencies to managing brain health. Its proprietary platforms are used to predict who will best respond to what drug, and develop new drugs, to provide objective reports from on-line assessments of brain health across the lifespan (including ADHD, Depression, Anxiety and Schizophrenia), and to match individualized profiles with brain training exercises & interactive videos to optimize wellness & brain function. New Partners The Brain Injury Association of Canada has a mandate to im... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4482876 Wed, 16 Feb 2011 02:27:03 +0100 4482876 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4460053&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F2HoNJkXp0Bo%2F CONCLUSION In terms of the first hour or so of play, users in this age group will be most motivated to engage with mobile brain training game technology when it’s perceived as providing a good challenge, of some practical benefit and is in some way familiar. Users will see usability issues, poor communication from the game and games that are inappropriately timed, i.e. too fast, as barriers to engagement. You can help us further understand what constitutes an enjoyable puzzle game experience for seniors by downloading the free iPhone app and participating in the next study. – Donal O’Brien is a PhD candidate at the Sonic Arts Research Centre in Queen’s University Belfast. His work is concerned with mobile digital game design and evaluation for seniors. His main interests are ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4460053 Thu, 10 Feb 2011 20:23:12 +0100 4460053 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4419284&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FlPZS9ZfA6Hc%2F Discussion focused on Brain Fitness, to take place on Monday March 14th in honor of Brain Awareness Week 2011 (March 14-20th). Let’s discuss burning issues together: Why care about neuroplasticity and the possibilities it offers to enrich our quality of life? What does cognitive reserve research mean to the way we learn, work, play, live? What is Brain Training — and what is not? All the conversation be virtual, via social media tools. You can learn more here. This edition of SharpBrains monthly eNewslet­ter brings many articles on those topics. Enjoy! Research Bites The value of neuroimaging: Researcher Joaquin Anguera from UCSF shares with us what a par­tic­i­pant goes through when vol­un­teering for a neu­ro­science exper­i­ment these days. How to boost self-control: Dav... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4419284 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 20:47:10 +0100 4419284 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4382865&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FSIuCVbZ_E-A%2F Following are two great illustrations excerpted from the children’s book: Your Fantastic, Elastic Brain: Stretch It, Shape It. This new book written by JoAnn Deak, PhD and illustrated by Sarah Ackerley explains to children how the brain changes with experiences and how they have some control over their brain power and health.  It is a great introduction to neuroplasticity and brain fitness. A fun read for all brain owners, young and old, out there! . To Learn More and Order the Book: click on Your Fantastic, Elastic Brain: Stretch It, Shape It (Little Pickle Press, $17.95). Looking for more resources about children’s brain? Check out this related post: Top 10 Q&A about Child’s Brain Development (Source: SharpBrains) SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4382865 Fri, 21 Jan 2011 16:50:11 +0100 4382865 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4372134&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FJqPzs3W43zg%2F Today we share must-read insights from  Katherine Sullivan, Director of the Brain Fitness Center at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, and Peter Kissinger, President of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. Both of them will discuss their ongoing work and lessons learned at the upcom­ing 2011 Sharp­Brains Sum­mit (March 30th — April 1st, 2011). The interviews below were conducted via email. — Katherine Sullivan is the Director of the Brain Fitness Center at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. 1. Katherine, how would you define “brain fit­ness” vs. “phys­i­cal fit­ness”? In our context (helping active duty service members and veterans recover from cognitive dysfunction most associated with traumatic brain injury), I’d say brain fitness is the outcome we work towards:... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4372134 Wed, 19 Jan 2011 15:00:56 +0100 4372134 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4331116&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FtVPk1z9NXRg%2F Every Monday during the next 10 weeks we’ll discuss here what leading industry, science and policy experts –all of whom will speak at the upcoming 2011 SharpBrains Summit (March 30th — April 1st, 2011)– have to say about emerging opportunities and challenges to address, over the next 10 years, the growing brain-related societal demands. Without further ado, here you have what four Summit Speakers say… — Alvaro Pascual-Leone is the Direc­tor of the Berenson-Allen Cen­ter for Non-Invasive Brain Stim­u­la­tion at Har­vard Med­ical School. 1. How would you define “brain fitness” vs. “physical fitness”? Physical fitness can refer to an overall or general state of health and well-being. However, it is also often used more specifically to refer to the ability to perfor... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4331116 Mon, 10 Jan 2011 20:57:18 +0100 4331116 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4327074&cid=t_153005_165_f&fid=37959&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhealthskills.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F01%2F10%2Fits-really-all-about-the-brain%2F Neuroscience is such a geeky area to study. And I have to say I didn’t really study the brain all that well in my undergraduate training all those years ago – but oh, how the worm has turned! It’s so exciting to see how basic science directly influences treatments that we can use for people who don’t have many pharmacologic options for their pain. While I don’t have really up-to-date papers today, I think the 2008 paper by Herta Flor presages some of the approaches we’re starting to use in clinical settings now, a scant three years later. Flor’s work has always been impressive – she has often looked at what happens when brains are deprived of their normal feedback because of trauma or amputation, and (really exciting!) she is coming to Austra... HealthSkills Weblog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4327074 Mon, 10 Jan 2011 03:02:46 +0100 4327074 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4314120&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F39r_WN7Xmeg%2F It is well known that physical fitness training can improve cognitive abilities. A small study surprisingly suggests that it may work both ways: Cognitive training may improve walking speed in seniors. How is this possible? Twenty seniors, aged 70 or older, who exercised once a week or less and walked slowly, participated in the study. Ten of the seniors participated in the Mindfit brain fitness program three times weekly (45–60 min. each time) for eight weeks. The other 10 seniors constituted the control group. Compared with their speed at the start of the study the 10 seniors in the brain training group: Improved their normal walking speed (this gain was however very small and not statistically significant). Improved their walking-while-talking speed significantly. No improvement i... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4314120 Wed, 05 Jan 2011 20:45:59 +0100 4314120 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4304984&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FMS2qn5Ph1As%2F Here is a news digest on brain training to start your stimulating New Year: Brain training games: Do they work? This piece explores the world of computerized brain training software: Who uses them? Are they worth the expense? You can also check out Sharpbrains Program Evaluation checklist to learn about the 10 ques­tions to ask when choosing a brain fit­ness pro­gram. Protect your brain: The new issue for athletes. Learn more about ImPACT (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing), the computerized clinical report which is quickly becoming the norm for high schools and colleges in determining an athlete’s cognitive brain function. For basic information on concussions and concussion-types sport-related damages, click here. Brain training: What’s the “true” pic... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4304984 Mon, 03 Jan 2011 17:49:57 +0100 4304984 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4298718&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FRkIGbtcxVcQ%2F How can we help younger generations find the right path to lifelong brain health and performance — especially as they will live longer, and in more dynamic, complex environments? We created the Brain Health across the Lifes­pan series to curate reliable sources of information, and here you can  check out  the Top 10 Resources to Better Understand the Teenage Brain. Wishing you and your family a very brain-fit decade…please enjoy the December edition of our monthly eNewsletter: Research Bites Memory Training Reduces Brain Atrophy: Andreas Engvig, a former SharpBrains intern and current neuroscientist, gives us a unique peak into his lab’s work on how mem­ory train­ing can both improve memory performance and decrease brain matter reduction in older adults’ brains. Cognitive ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4298718 Wed, 29 Dec 2010 18:05:22 +0100 4298718 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4294828&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FF_-YgpOQQ2c%2F As part of the research behind the book The SharpBrains Guide for Brain Fitness we interviewed dozens of leading cognitive health and fitness scientists and experts worldwide to learn about their research and thoughts, and have a number of take-aways to report. What can we clearly say today that we couldn’t have said only 10 years ago? That what neuroscience pioneer Santiago Ramon y Cajal claimed in the XX century, “Every man can, if he so desires, become the sculptor his own brain”, may well become reality in the XXI. And transform Education, Health, Training, and Gaming in the process, since we have only scratched the surface of what science-based structured mental exercise can do for lifelong brain health and productivity. We are now witnessing the birth of a new field that cross... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4294828 Tue, 28 Dec 2010 00:56:49 +0100 4294828 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4241835&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FXtT5veL6888%2F My interest in the brain stems from wanting to better understand both how to make school more palatable for students, and professional development more meaningful for faculty. To that end, I began my Neurons Firing blog in April, 2007, have been doing a lot of reading, and been attending workshops and conferences, including Learning & the Brain. If you agree that our brains are designed for learning, then as educators it is incumbent upon us to be looking for ways to maximize the learning process for each of our students, as well as for ourselves. Some of what follows is simply common sense, but I’ve learned that all of it has a scientific basis in our brains. 1. Review and 2. Reflection are two means for thinking about what is being learned. Review can be done in the moments after ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4241835 Wed, 08 Dec 2010 19:25:24 +0100 4241835 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4179403&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FbIK4cuhZ8z0%2F Discussions (Members-only links below. To Learn More and Join Council, click Here) Now let’s take a look at the great things going on with the SharpBrains Council. Council Membership 60 Council Members are already active in the Council members-only platform, bringing an excellent cross-sector participation and featuring innovative research, products, services and practices. The Member List available in the Library section includes interests and 2011 priorities, to facilitate connections. We are featuring: 7 most active Council Members: Philip Toman, Jamie Wilson, Luc Beaudoin, Joshua Steinerman, Pascale Michelon, Adam Gazzaley and Sherrie All. 7 Council Members doing great work outside the US: Peter Reiner, Veronika Litinski and David Tal in Canada; Jenny Brockis and Steve Zanon in A... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4179403 Thu, 18 Nov 2010 17:05:02 +0100 4179403 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4152012&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F5PVEXty3FV4%2F A study just published in the Journal of the American Geriatric Society has been much publicized recently (see for instance, this L.A. Times article). The study showed that a computer-based brain training program succeeded in reducing at-fault car crashes for older drivers. The effects of the training lasted over 6 years. This result made the news as one of the rare transfers of brain training benefits to everyday life.  Why was this training successful and not others? Probably because brain training needs to be specific and not general. If you practice playing baseball you do not expect to get better at playing basketball, right? The same is true of brain functions: If you train your language skills, do not expect to get better at memorizing numbers. Driving is quite automatic for most o... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4152012 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 15:32:16 +0100 4152012 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4152014&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FN3OunENy05o%2F This study clearly demonstrates that there is only little support for a specific Mozart effect in published as well as in unpublished work. Although results indicate a positive, significant effect of exposure to the Mozart sonata (KV 448) compared to no stimulus at all on spatial task performance, observed effects were only small in size. Moreover, exposure to other musical stimuli compared to exposure to no stimulus at all yielded a significant overall effect of about the same size…On the whole, there is little left that would support the notion of a specific enhancement of spatial task performance through exposure to the Mozart sonata KV 448.” I think the jury is in on this one: The Mozart effect is weak, at best. Maybe the question can finally be put to rest. Does this mean that m... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4152014 Mon, 08 Nov 2010 17:49:09 +0100 4152014 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4119370&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2Fb68Qn7NVzbo%2F To help consumers and professionals navigate through the growing number of programs making “brain fitness” or “brain training” claims, we have published this SharpBrains Checklist: 10 Questions to Choose the Right Brain Fitness Program — and a brief explanation of why each question is important: * 1. Are there scientists, ideally neuropsychologists, and a scientific advisory board behind the program? Neuropsychologists specialize in measuring and understanding human cognition and brain structure and function. * 2. Are there published, peer-reviewed scientific papers in PubMed written by those scientists? How many? PubMed is a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine that includes millions of citations science journals. If a scientist has not published a paper that appear... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4119370 Fri, 29 Oct 2010 14:24:06 +0100 4119370 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4086391&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FFhw0Xv-nlrw%2F An interesting article in Nature Reviews last month reviewed several studies showing that cognitive intervention can be beneficial even for individuals already diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease (Buschert et al., 2010). The article shows that patients with mild-to-moderate dementia can benefit from a range of cognitive interventions: from training of partially spared cognitive functions to training on activities of daily living. Results suggest that such interventions can improve global cognition, abilities of daily living and quality of life in these patients. Patients with moderate-to-severe dementia seem to benefit from general engagement in activities that enhance cognitive and social functioning in a non-specific manner. In general, for patients diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease,... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4086391 Wed, 20 Oct 2010 19:40:46 +0100 4086391 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4060919&cid=t_153005_113_f&fid=34637&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgaggio.blogspirit.com%2Farchive%2F2010%2F10%2F12%2Fonline.html The new issue of Cybertherapy and Rehabilitation magazine (3/2) is now online and available for full-text download. Topics covered by this issue include brain-computer interface, cognitive enhancement and trainers and the use of massive multiplayer online games in rehabilitation and therapy.           (Source: Positive Technology Journal) Positive Technology Journal blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4060919 Tue, 12 Oct 2010 06:54:00 +0100 4060919 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4055827&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F9mHY5I3qG84%2F Brain training does not necessarily mean computerized games. For instance, mediation may be a great tool to train your brain. Different parts of the brain support different functions. One function, central to many of our actions, is “attention”. Attention can be defined as the ability to sustain concentration on a particular object, action, or thought. It can also be defined as the ability to manage competing demands in our environment.connections between neurons, die. In the brain it is supported mainly by neuronal networks in the parietal (yellow in the figure) and frontal (blue in the figure) lobes. What can be done to maintain and boost such a fundamental ability? Dr. Andrew Newberg (Associate Professor in the Department of Radiology and Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvani... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4055827 Mon, 11 Oct 2010 19:05:03 +0100 4055827 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4045224&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FTSN3bNlCxTY%2F Have you read the cover story of the New Scientist this week: Mental muscle: six ways to boost your brain? The article, which includes good information on brain food, the value of meditation, etc., starts by saying that: “Brain training doesn’t work, but there are lots of other ways to give your grey matter a quick boost.” Further in the article you can read “… brain training software has now been consigned to the shelf of technologies that failed to live up to expectations.” Such claims are based on the one study widely publicized earlier this year: the BBC “brain training” experiment, published by Owen et al. (2010) in Nature. What happened to the scientific rigor associated with the New Scientist? As expressed in one of our previous posts: “Once more, claims seem to go... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4045224 Fri, 08 Oct 2010 14:42:52 +0100 4045224 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3994118&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FebOYCtuF2U4%2F Ask yourself the tough questions: Do you mind your brain? Do you know your noggin’? Can you claim cerebral ownership or is your mental a rental? Although these questions are relevant at virtually all lifespan stages, firm answers can sometimes appear inconceivable.  Unfortunately with advancing age, attention to mental performance is often either abandoned or framed in terms of perceived impairment and decline.  Now, I have previously shared my message on minding the aging brain with SharpBrains readers.  As a cognitive neuropsychiatrist primarily interested in later-life phenomena, I tend to stick to my area of expertise.  Nevertheless, whether you are elder or not, I implore you to take these ideas to heart…do you mind? Just as brain fitness is for all, aging is similarly univers... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3994118 Wed, 22 Sep 2010 17:41:02 +0100 3994118 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3987122&cid=t_153005_113_f&fid=34637&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgaggio.blogspirit.com%2Farchive%2F2010%2F09%2F20%2Fxwave-control-your-iphone-with-your-brain.html The XWave is a new technology that uses a single electrode placed on the wearer’s forehead to measure electroencephalography (EEG) data, and converts these analog signals into digital so they can be used to control an external device. The XWave comes bundled with a software that includes a number of brain-training exercises. These include levitating a ball on the iDevice’s screen, changing a color based on the relaxation level of your brain and training your brain to maximize its attention span.   In the company’s own words: XWave, powered by NeuroSky eSense patented technologies, senses the faintest electrical impulses transmitted through your skull to the surface of your forehead and converts these analogue signals into digital. With XWave, you will be able to detect attenti... Positive Technology Journal blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3987122 Mon, 20 Sep 2010 14:05:00 +0100 3987122 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3845187&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FuaJVh6D6qUc%2F I was really interested in the recent critique of the BBC brain training experiment by Dr. Elizabeth Zelinski. I think Owens et al (2010) was a critical piece of research which was not conducted in the right way and was focusing on the wrong sample population.  I totally agree with the comments by Dr. Zelinski regarding the potential for sample bias and the use of some questionable cognitive measures. However, I would like to take this critique further and question whether the study was value for money when there are other studies which cannot achieve funding but would, in my opinion, show the criticism/scepticism of the use-it-or-lose-it theory. I think there is not enough criticism about the age of the sample population used in Owens et al. (2010). We have conclusive cognitive and neuro... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3845187 Mon, 09 Aug 2010 12:14:16 +0100 3845187 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3798673&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FU3wLN6Oicdw%2F Here you have the July edition of our monthly eNewslet ter covering cognitive health and brain fitness topics. Please remem ber that you can subscribe to receive this free Brain Fitness eNewsletter by email, using the box in the right column. Technology to upgrade brain care: In this extensive interview, Dr. John Docherty helps connect the dots on why new frameworks and tools are a must to put recent brain research to good use. A must read for all professionals in the field. Research Findings from NIH Expert Panel: The American Society on Aging asked Alvaro Fernandez to comment on the findings from a major cognitive health research review by the National Institutes of Health. Lifestyle still matters, and protective factors against cognitive decline are led by cognitive training, physical... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3798673 Wed, 28 Jul 2010 13:11:35 +0100 3798673 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3794747&cid=t_153005_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fbrain-training-flex-your-focus-muscle%2F Poor attention span isn’t just the trouble of an ADD-diagnosed teen; in the modern age of computers, smartphones, twitter, and television, we’ve all slowly lost our ability to focus, and there are plenty of studies to show it. We want our focus back, and there’s a whole industry of tools, apps, programs, and headphones to help us, acting like digital blinders to shield us from distraction. But Clay Johnson, the founder of Blue State Digital (the technology company behind Barack Obama’s web site) and blogger at infovegan.com, says that we’re looking in the wrong place: “It is as much Twitter’s fault that you have a short attention span as it is your closet’s fault it doesn’t have any running shoes in it. If you want the ability to focus ... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3794747 Tue, 27 Jul 2010 19:47:44 +0100 3794747 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3746857&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FEID5-wTAlF0%2F We often hear interest from people of all ages in being participants in the cognitive research we are doing in our UCSF lab. However, all of our experiments to date have been focused on under 20 year olds and the over 60 age group, and many people fall in between. Well, we have just launched our first experiment aimed at exploring the impact of distraction and multitasking on performance across the lifespan, with a large enough number of participants to allow for gender comparisons. So, we are reaching to people of all ages with the opportunity to be participate in this cool new experiment. This is a behavioral study using a video game that we created and developed to evaluate these skills. It sets the stage for both a brain training and brain recording experiment to follow. Taking part re... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3746857 Mon, 12 Jul 2010 11:29:57 +0100 3746857 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3699606&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F9kuPOAPPJdk%2F We define Brain Fitness as having the brain-based cognitive, emotional and self-regulation capacities required to succeed in one’s environment. Not everyone is exposed to the same mental demands nor do we all have the same starting points. This means we need to stop looking for ‘magic pills’ and invest more resources in developing toolkits and infrastructure similar to what the physical fitness industry has done over the last 30-40 years. The following question guides much of our work at SharpBrains: “What tools provide the right kind of experience to refine our brains from a structural and functional point of view to harness neuroplasticity into real-world benefits?” We try to provide good information and answers by constantly monitoring and analyzing the state of science and th... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3699606 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 14:31:12 +0100 3699606 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3566707&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F7PTRT-MRgFE%2F (Editor’s note: SharpBrains Summit attendee Steve Zanon wrote a very insightful comment to our previous post regarding the NIH independent panel on Alzheimer’s/ cognitive decline prevention. We republish comment here for easier access.) In the introductions on day one of the NIH conference Jenifer Croswell from OMAR outlined three different frames of reference and decision making in this context. She mentioned (1) the individual and family based on personal values, (2) community doctors affecting their patients, and (3) recommendations for an entire population of people which should only contain strong evidentiary based information. She indicated that this conference would produce a statement based on the third context and in that respect the panel has done a great job in highl... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3566707 Fri, 14 May 2010 23:16:42 +0100 3566707 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3552426&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FsCwFViMSU2I%2F In conclusion In conclusion, in my opinion, the Owen et al. (2010) study contributes to the literature on computerized brain training, by showing that a substantial number of individuals can be recruited to participate, with a wide range of actual amount of practice, and that transfer as measured did not occur in tasks measured as spans, but did show small effects similar to that of drug effects on the one test measured as number correct. Transfer effects have been observed in studies with older adults as well as younger ones in more controlled research environments; it remains to be seen whether the data collected by the Nature study authors on older adults, which were not included in the published article, will show different results. Obviously, few studies in general have been conducted... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3552426 Mon, 10 May 2010 23:11:43 +0100 3552426 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3519571&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FOFU37fr3j-g%2F We are pleased to announce that, out of the 40 great entries submitted, the 10 Finalists to the 2010 Brain Fitness Innovation Awards moving to the next round are (ordered by approximate age of end user population, from younger to older): Arrowsmith School, USA Hockey, Nationwide Mutual Insurance, University Behavioral HealthCare/ University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey, Allstate, AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, Saint Luke’s Brain and Stroke Institute, Oakland Unified School District, Mental Health Association of Rockland County, SCAN Health Plan. Winners will be announced during the State of Brain Fitness Innovation Webinar on May 24th, noon-1pm Pacific Time. Registration is now open ($25), and includes executive summary of SharpBrains’ 2010 market report and acc... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3519571 Fri, 30 Apr 2010 14:32:23 +0100 3519571 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3508316&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2Fl3ddrIAAg9w%2F In light of the current BBC-led controversy on whether “brain training” works, we believe it is critical to spend some time discussing the basics of brain functioning and brain-healthy lifestyles, what “brain training” is and isn’t (to be accurate, the BBC didn’t test Brain Training as a category, only the new games that their researchers chose to build from scratch and designate as “brain training” ignoring previous research), what methodologies for brain training are in fact backed up by science (meditation, cognitive therapy, biofeedback, computerized cognitive training) as valuable for a variety of populations and goals, and how consumers and professionals can learn to navigate the growing array of claims. SharpBrains wants to contribute ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3508316 Mon, 26 Apr 2010 20:14:00 +0100 3508316 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3504972&cid=t_153005_109_f&fid=38950&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.shockmd.com%2F2010%2F04%2F26%2Fdoes-brain-training-help%2F Brain-training computer games are a multimillion pound industry. But this week, a study published in Nature suggests they may not live up to their promise. Neuroscientist Adrian Owen teamed up with the BBC popular science programme ‘Bang Goes The Theory’ to recruit more than 11,000 volunteers for a massive online experiment. To read the story in full, go here Besides getting better at the game your training does brain training improve cognitive functioning? Want to know, have a look at this video. Related posts:Brain Training for Elderly Better On Paper or Computer? 10 myths about training your brain demistified Video Games Affect The Brain, Good or Bad? (Source: Dr Shock MD PhD) Dr Shock MD PhD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3504972 Mon, 26 Apr 2010 06:55:09 +0100 3504972 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3490742&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FWV_7K2JURAU%2F You may already have read the hundreds of media articles today titled “brain training doesn’t work” and similar, based on the BBC “Brain Test Britain” experiment. Once more, claims seem to go beyond the science backing them up … except that in this case it is the researchers, not the developers, who are responsible. Let’s recap what we learned today. The Good Science The study showed that putting together a variety of brain games in one website and asking people who happen to show up to play around for a grand total of 3-4 hours over 6 weeks (10 minutes 3 times a week for 6 weeks) didn’t result in meaningful improvements in cognitive functioning. This is useful information for consumers to know, because in fact there are websites and compani... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3490742 Wed, 21 Apr 2010 05:50:29 +0100 3490742 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3487217&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FmSQehk9v2j4%2F Tomorrow we’ll probably witness a lot of media coverage about a experiment run by the BBC in the UK, to be published in Nature, on whether “brain training” works. The paper is still embargoed, so we cannot comment on it, but what I can do is to share fragments of my email to a BBC reporter six months ago, discussing impressions on what they had announced as the ultimate test of whether “brain training” works. Again, these were purely my impressions based on limited public information. Once we can comment on the published paper we’ll be able to provide a more informed perspective. “Hello XYZ, Here go some of my thoughts based on my external perception of your test: I agree with many of the premises for the test But “Does brain training reall... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3487217 Tue, 20 Apr 2010 04:10:50 +0100 3487217 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3322455&cid=t_153005_113_f&fid=34637&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgaggio.blogspirit.com%2Farchive%2F2010%2F03%2F01%2Flevelhead-v1-0.html Via: Lorenzo Romeo LevelHead, an augmented-reality spatial-memory game by Julian Oliver. (Source: Positive Technology Journal) Positive Technology Journal blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3322455 Mon, 01 Mar 2010 18:09:00 +0100 3322455 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251296&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=38275&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drjonathanreed.co.uk%2Fwordpress%2F2010%2F02%2Fcomputer-games-and-neuropsychology-realizing-the-potential%2F There is increasing evidence that playing video games improves neuropsychological function.  I have just been reading another excellent paper from the people at the University of Rochester called Increasing Speed of Processing with Action Video Games.  The paper written by Mathew Dye, Shawn Green and Daphne Bavelier looks at a range of previous studies on reaction time and video game playing.  The introduction to the paper states: Playing action video games-contemporary examples include God of War, Unreal Tournament, GTA, and call of Duty – requires rapid processing of sensory information and prompt action, forcing players to make decisions and execute responses at a far greater pace than is typical in everyday life. Looking at lots of different studies they conclude that: Video ... Child Neuropsychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251296 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 16:54:37 +0100 3251296 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3149187&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FcYw8eK7cwQs%2F In this January issue of our eNewsletter, we will first brief you on the enlightening demos that will take place on Wednesday, January 20th, as part of the SharpBrains Summit, and then present the 15 most stimulating SharpBrains articles of 2009. Expo Day If you want to see and discuss the latest programs and technologies for brain fitness, presented by Summit Sponsors, Wednesday January 20th is your day. Each demo will last 30 minutes, followed by 15 minutes of Q&A. 9am. Baycrest/ Cogniciti will introduce the new Memory@Work workshop, designed to teach what memory is, how lifestyle factors such as distraction and stress can affect memory, and how to enhance memory performance at work with the use of enabling strategies. 10am. CogniFit will demo CogniFit Personal Coach and CogniFit Sen... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3149187 Thu, 07 Jan 2010 04:34:33 +0100 3149187 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3084857&cid=t_153005_113_f&fid=34637&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgaggio.blogspirit.com%2Farchive%2F2009%2F12%2F13%2Faugmented-cognition.html This short movie, entitled The Future of Augmented Cognition, depicts DARPA’s vision of how augmented cognition will in the future be used to integrate multiple sources of information. The film is set in the year 2030, and takes place in a command centre which monitors cyberspace activity for threats to the global economy. The movie  was commissioned by DARPA and directed by Alexander Singer. (Source: Positive Technology Journal) Positive Technology Journal blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3084857 Sun, 13 Dec 2009 22:51:00 +0100 3084857 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3071264&cid=t_153005_113_f&fid=34637&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgaggio.blogspirit.com%2Farchive%2F2009%2F12%2F08%2Flaser-enhanced-concentration.html Now that neuroscientists have identified the brain's synchronizing mechanism, they've started work on therapies to strengthen attention. Ultimately, it may be possible to improve your attention by using pulses of light to directly synchronize your neurons, a form of direct therapy that could help people with schizophrenia and attention-deficit problems, said Dr. Desimone, the director of the McGovern Institute for Brain Research at MIT. In the nearer future, neuroscientists might also help you focus by observing your brain activity and providing biofeedback as you practice strengthening your concentration. Researchers have already observed higher levels of synchrony in the brains of people who regularly meditate. (Source: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/05/science/05tier.html) (Source: Posi... Positive Technology Journal blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3071264 Tue, 08 Dec 2009 21:47:03 +0100 3071264 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2967421&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=38275&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drjonathanreed.co.uk%2Fwordpress%2F2009%2F11%2Fworking-memory-training%2F Our rehabilitation company Recolo is now offering the Cogmed working memory training program. Working memory is the ability to hold information in mind for a short period of time and to be able to use this information in your thinking.  Problems with working memory are associated with a number of childhood conditions including ADHD, brain injury and poor academic achievement. We decided to provide the Cogmed working memory training in the UK because the research literature on it is impressive.  It is effective in improving working memory in 80% of cases.  The improvements have been demonstrated in neuropsychological tests, fMRI changes and rating scales.  It can also be demonstrated at the neurotransmitter level- see previous post for details.  It has been shown to be effective in imp... Child Neuropsychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2967421 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:00:08 +0100 2967421 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2927455&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=35065&url=http%3A%2F%2Feideneurolearningblog.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F10%2Fvideo-games-improve-night-vision.html As we grow older, there are many factors that contribute to our difficulty seeing in the dark. A few of the reasons include a reduction in pupil size, loss of accommodative function, and a dramatic slowing in dark adaption due to delayed rhodopsin regeneration. Well, there now may be a reason for hope... and the encouraging answer comes from action-based video games.. The Bavelier lab found first that players of action-based video games were better than non-video game players at contrast sensitivity (58% better). Next, they found that a fairly short course of action-based video game training could improve contrast sensitivity 43%s. In the picture above, see how much a 58% improvement contrast sensitivity can help...From the University of Rochester:" 'Normally, improving contrast sensitivit... Eide Neurolearning Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2927455 Mon, 26 Oct 2009 07:01:00 +0100 2927455 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2839069&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=35065&url=http%3A%2F%2Feideneurolearningblog.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F09%2Fwatch-how-you-train-your-brain.html Interesting article about how researchers attempting to train teenage girls in a visualspatial task (Tetris) did see increases in cortical thickness in visualspatial areas, but how they were also surprised to see reduce cortical thickness in the opposite hemisphere (not in visualspatial areas), but in the right prefrontal cortex. So the stronger certain areas of the left brain became, weaker connectivity on the right.Be careful of what you wish for. The neurological literature is filled with anecdotal reports about how injury in one hemisphere of the brain could compensated for by higher activity in the other, but the mechanisms of how different sides of the brain create a balancing act are virtually unknown. The right and left hemispheres have some overlapping functions, some complementar... Eide Neurolearning Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2839069 Mon, 28 Sep 2009 07:05:00 +0100 2839069 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2814511&cid=t_153005_113_f&fid=34637&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgaggio.blogspirit.com%2Farchive%2F2009%2F09%2F21%2Fthe-sensitivity-of-a-virtual-reality-task-to-planning-and-pr.html Authors: Sweeney S, Kersel D, Morris RG, Manly T, Evans JJ Executive functions have been argued to be the most vulnerable to brain injury. In providing an analogue of everyday situations amenable to control and management virtual reality (VR) may offer better insights into planning deficits consequent upon brain injury. Here 17 participants with a non-progressive brain injury and reported executive difficulties in everyday life were asked to perform a VR task (working in a furniture storage unit) that emphasised planning, rule following and prospective memory tasks. When compared with an age and IQ-matched control group, the patients were significantly poorer in terms of their strategy, their time-based prospective memory, the overall time required and their propensity to break rules. An e... Positive Technology Journal blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2814511 Mon, 21 Sep 2009 14:57:17 +0100 2814511 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2807739&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F6hiu_s-gcV8%2F Title: The SharpBrains Guide to Brain Fitness - Practical Advice to Keep Your Brain Sharp - Two community-based book talks hosted by New York Public Library and supported by the Einstein Aging Study at Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Description: A fit brain? Can you exercise your brain and become mentally fit? Can you continue to learn and increase your brain’s capacity at any age? Alvaro Fernandez, CEO and Co-Founder of SharpBrains, says Yes!, and in this program he will show you how. Based on research compiled from leading scientists in fields of Neuroscience, Gerontology, and Cognitive Science, and presented in his book “The SharpBrains Guide to Brain Fitness”, Alvaro Fernandez will provide ways to maintain and improve your cognitive health. He will: - Debunk 10 Myths of Br... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2807739 Thu, 17 Sep 2009 20:08:07 +0100 2807739 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2774735&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FT6qWkjZpDtg%2F Have you already read The SharpBrains Guide to Brain Fitness? Let's see... 1. Pick the only part of your body that does not contain fat: a. Arm b. Thigh c. Brain d. None Answer: d) Fats are also present in the brain: in neurons’ membranes to keep them flexible. These fats are the omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids molecules. (Page 32 of the book) 2. Pick the only food product that doesn’t contain Omega-3 fatty acids a. Tuna b. Walnut c. Kiwi d. Jelly Beans Answer: d) Fatty acids can be found in cold-water fish (such as mackerel, herring, salmon, and tuna), kiwi, and walnuts. (Page 33) 3. Pick the only food product that doesn’t contain antioxidants a. Olive oil b. Milk c. Nuts d. Berries Answer: b) Antioxidants can be found in vegetable oils, nuts, green leafy vegetables (e.g., spinach),... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2774735 Tue, 08 Sep 2009 04:41:31 +0100 2774735 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2772561&cid=t_153005_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F09%2F07%2Fthe-bbc-asks-does-brain-training-work%2F Dr. Adrian Owen, of the UK Medical Research Council’s Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, takes a critical look at the growing field of “brain training” programs and notes some of the same issues I’ve previously written about (more than once). It appears the “news” article is in support of a BBC program airing tonight called, Bang Goes the Theory, which is running a brain training “experiment” on its website, the Brain Test Britain experiment. Ironically, the experiment designed for the web has four of the five problems listed below! I guess nobody who designed the experiment talked to Dr. Owen first. Oops. The five reasons Dr. Owen gives for brain training not quite “being there” in terms of the research support are: Research of... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2772561 Mon, 07 Sep 2009 13:37:51 +0100 2772561 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2762009&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=38275&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drjonathanreed.co.uk%2Fwordpress%2F2009%2F09%2F5-reasons-to-develop-computer-game-based-learning%2F There is a lot of debate particularly in the media about the pros and cons about computer use with children.  I believe that there are some fantastic potential benefits in developing computer games to teach children.  Here are 5 of them: Dissemination of information- Our knowledge about child neuropsychological development is increasing all the time.  But there is a problem communicating this to teachers and parents and applying this knowledge. Computer game based learning allows this knowledge to be disseminated to a large number of children.  An example is dyslexia (by this I mean difficulties in learning to read). As neuropsychologists we know how reading develops, what part of the brain is involved, how to intervene to improve reading and how this  changes the brain areas involve... Child Neuropsychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2762009 Thu, 03 Sep 2009 16:02:29 +0100 2762009 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2570895&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F0Nz1fWRE5Ic%2F (Editor's note: Daniel Goleman is now conducting a series of audio interviews including a great one with Richard Davidson on Training the Brain. We are honored to bring you this guest post by Daniel Goleman, thanks to our collaboration with Greater Good Magazine.)  --- Yes, You Can: New research suggests we can build our willpower -- By Daniel Goleman Those of us who struggle to resist junk foods or otherwise suffer a lack of willpower will be heartened by some good news from neuroscience. But there's some bad news, too. First, the bad news. A slew of studies suggest that we each have a fixed neural reservoir of willpower, and that if we use it on one thing, we have less for others. Tasks that demand some self-control make it harder for us to do the next thing that takes willpower. In ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2570895 Sun, 05 Jul 2009 10:52:45 +0100 2570895 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2464280&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FSJQ560dB0NI%2F The San Francisco Chronicle brings two great pieces today - including an excellent review of our new Book! Is Your Brain A Couch Potato? (online book review) "At 165 pages, we're talking a short, sweet, entertaining read of a complex topic, with timely (written in 1/09) reviews of 21 top technology products, as well as informed and expert predictions of where this burgeoning brain-fitness field is headed. More importantly, after you read it, you'll have a good, detailed sense of where you, personally, can act to improve your own couch-potato brain - and how to keep it fit and flexible your whole life. The SharpBrains Guide To Brain Fitness reminds of us all why books (and not just googling a topic) can be well worth your time and money. Two Stethoscopes Up - check it out." Sof... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2464280 Mon, 08 Jun 2009 16:22:50 +0100 2464280 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2458243&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F1xndaexWxAA%2F This is a partial list of the literature we reviewed during the research phase of our new book, The SharpBrains Guide to Brain Fitness.  We know many friends of SharpBrains are researchers, healthcare professionals, graduate/ Ph.D. students, who want have direct access to the references (perhaps PubMed should promote itself as a never ending source of mental stimulation?), so here you have this list, organized by relevant chapter. Please note that the list below appears in the book - whose manuscript we had to close in January 2009. Introduction • Basak, C. et al. (2008). Can training in a real-time strategy video game attenuate cognitive decline in older adults? Psychology and Aging. • Begley, S. (2007). Train your mind, change your brain: How a new science reveals our extraordinary ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2458243 Sat, 06 Jun 2009 19:24:20 +0100 2458243 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2458165&cid=t_153005_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F06%2F05%2Ffriday-flashback-for-june-5-2009%2F You know summer’s on its way when it starts heating up here in New England, so what better time to flash back to some classic posts from the Psych Central archives? 10 Years Ago on Psych Central Becoming Stuck Online In this classic post, I rant about the world of Internet mental health moving at a glacier’s pace, compared to the world of Internet technologies and services. I also allude to my moving on from the founding of Mental Health Net to take a short-lived position with the doomed Internet startup, drkoop.com. I wrote then, “My goal is to pursue and push others to explore the positive uses and effects of the Internet,” and never has that been more true than today. The Internet has opened so many doors for so many people, I still enjoy talking about all the p... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2458165 Fri, 05 Jun 2009 18:30:04 +0100 2458165 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2442118&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FYGiLcf1OwxI%2F Our friend Paul Van Slembrouck has summarized and beautifully presented the main findings of our 150-page market report, The State of the Brain Fitness Market 2009, with this great visual. To view it, click Here. Brain Fitness, Brain Training, graph, market, market report, visual (Source: SharpBrains) SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2442118 Sat, 30 May 2009 00:04:10 +0100 2442118 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2441697&cid=t_153005_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F05%2F23%2Fvideo-change-your-thoughts-change-your-brain%2F Sharon Begley, author of “Train Your Mind, Change Your Brain” explains how training your thoughts actually changes the hard matter of your brain. She writes, “Something as seemingly insubstantial as a thought can affect the very stuff of the brain, altering neuronal connections in a way that can treat mental illness, or perhaps, lead to a greater capacity for empathy and compassion. It may even dial up the supposedly immovable happiness set point.” In this video I demonstrate, as usual. Click through to watch the video. (Source: World of Psychology) World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2441697 Sat, 23 May 2009 15:15:43 +0100 2441697 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2442123&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FXricrzZuo7g%2F Our first book is available in Amazon.com! Background: In 2005 I read two books by my now co-author, Dr. Elkhonon Goldberg, that changed my career and life. Dr. Goldberg presented an exciting overview of emerging brain research debunking many old myths. Reflecting on what I was learning, I thought, "If all this is true, there is a revolution in the making that will impact education, healthcare, the way we learn and the way to take care for our brains. Someone will need to act as a translator, analyst and educator, to help individuals and society at large appreciate the implications of this research and start using this knowledge here and now." After several meetings with Dr. Goldberg, who kindly responded to my initial unsolicited letter, we decided to partner and create SharpBra... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2442123 Fri, 22 May 2009 22:03:07 +0100 2442123 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2442108&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=38275&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drjonathanreed.co.uk%2Fwordpress%2F2009%2F05%2Fplaying-computer-games-improves-attention%2F There is more evidence of the neuropsychological benefits of playing action video games in a new paper to be published in July by Matt Dye and colleagues in Neuropsychologia. This paper shows that playing action video games resulted in improvmenets in attention allocation in children and young people.  The authors used the Attention Network Test (ANT) which measure “how well attention is allocated to targets as a function of alerting and orientating cues, and to what extent observers are able to filter out the influence of task irrelevant information flanking those tasks”.  The subjects were children and young people between the ages of 7 and 22 who had played action games (such as Halo, Metal Gear, Quake, Grand Theft Auto, Medal of Honor etc) and non action games (Age of E... Child Neuropsychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2442108 Thu, 21 May 2009 10:42:06 +0100 2442108 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2415540&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=38275&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drjonathanreed.co.uk%2Fwordpress%2F2009%2F05%2Fhow-to-make-your-child-more-intelligent%2F There is an interesting article in the Sunday Times this week entitled ‘how to make your child more intelligent’.  It seems to be based in part on a new book by Richard Nisbett entitled ‘Intelligence and How to Get it: Why Schools and Cultures Count.  Whilst the article makes a number of important points the overall tone feels a bit like the old nature/ nurture debate, which I thought was over years ago. The article starts by stating that ‘Over recent years most experts have concluded that intelligence is largely genetic in origin, and that nurture does relatively little to raise an individual’s potential’.  I am not sure which experts they are referring to here as anyone who knows anything about the genes and IQ literature knows this not to be true.   The relation... Child Neuropsychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2415540 Mon, 18 May 2009 22:00:42 +0100 2415540 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2398974&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=38275&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drjonathanreed.co.uk%2Fwordpress%2F2009%2F05%2Fnew-technology-to-improve-physical-disability%2F One of the most distressing symptoms for many of the children and young people I see clinically after a traumatic brain injury or stroke is the physical disability caused by the neurological injury.   Most parents, children and young people hold out most hope for a physical recovery.  The physical disability is the most visible symptom to the patient, their families and to other people.  At present the main therapy to help with this is physiotherapy.  Physiotherapy requires repeated exercise to try and improve physical function. Recent research has shown that physiotherapy is more effective in treating adult stoke patients than no therapy, although the type of physiotherapy used didn’t seem to make a difference. However, even with a disorder as physically treatable as stroke ... Child Neuropsychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2398974 Thu, 07 May 2009 19:00:58 +0100 2398974 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2382640&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FqaQH2_3wovU%2F Here you have the April edition of our monthly newsletter covering cognitive health and brain fitness topics. Please remember that you can subscribe to receive this Newsletter by email, using the box at the top of this page. We are excited to release our 2009 market report The State of the Brain Fitness Software Market 2009. To be formally released on May 4th but available now for our clients and readers, this report aims to inform decision-makers at healthcare, insurance, research, public policy, investment and technology organizations about important developments in the brain fitness and cognitive health space. 2009 Market Report The State of the Brain Fitness Software Market 2009: This new 150-page report finds sustained growth in the brain fitness software market (from $225m in 2007 t... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2382640 Fri, 01 May 2009 13:53:07 +0100 2382640 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2365264&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=38275&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drjonathanreed.co.uk%2Fwordpress%2F2009%2F04%2Fneurogames-free-demo%2F You can now try Neurogames for free with the demos online for the basic maths game Nutty Numbers and the reading game Letter Lilies. The games are specially formulated to help children who find learning difficult including children with dyslexia, dyscalculia, ADHD and Learning difficulties.  However, they are based on normal child development and so can be used by anyone learning to read or learning maths.  I use them clinically in my practice and I have had great feedback from children of different abilities who have played the games.   I believe that using games to help children learn holds great promise for the future.  So try the games for free here and let me know what you think. (Source: Child Neuropsychology) Child Neuropsychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2365264 Fri, 24 Apr 2009 08:24:58 +0100 2365264 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2349055&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=38275&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drjonathanreed.co.uk%2Fwordpress%2F2009%2F04%2Fchanging-childrens-lives-to-make-a-better-society%2F Scientific and technological knowledge is developing very fast. This post is about some of the ways in which we could use this knowledge to help children develop in ways that will help them and change society in the long term.  These are just a few examples of what we know and what we could do.   1. Eliminate dyslexia- not being able to read as well as being difficult for the individual involved also is associated with significant social problems for example approximately 50 % of adult in prison in the UK have difficulty reading and 80% have difficulty with writing.  We know how to treat dyslexia (see this post) Eliminating dyslexia has been attempted in one school district in Scotland with great success.  Why can’t we do this everywhere?  2. Teach children how to be... Child Neuropsychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2349055 Wed, 08 Apr 2009 15:30:19 +0100 2349055 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2320427&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=38275&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drjonathanreed.co.uk%2Fwordpress%2F2009%2F04%2Fchanging-childrens-lives-to-make-a-better-society%2F Scientific and technological knowledge is developing very fast. This post is about some of the ways in which we could use this knowledge to help children develop in ways that will help them and change society in the long term.  These are just a few examples of what we know and what we could do.   Eliminate dyslexia- not being able to read as well as being difficult for the individual involved also is associated with significant social problems for example approximately 50 % of adult in prison in the UK have difficulty reading and 80% have difficulty with writing.  We know how to treat dyslexia (see this post) Eliminating dyslexia has been attempted in one school district in Scotland with great success.  Why can’t we do this everywhere?  Teach children how to be happy... Child Neuropsychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2320427 Wed, 08 Apr 2009 15:30:19 +0100 2320427 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2320463&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FDJUyXt6ocL8%2F Learning can be incidental. We all memorize facts without paying much attention to these facts or without willing to memorize them. However, when one really wants to memorize a fact, it is crucial to pay attention. Many studies have shown that compared to full attention conditions, dividing attention during study time leads to poor memory performance. This exercise will help you practice focusing your attention. It may seem easy but make sure you count twice! Count the number of “Y” in this text: Yesterday, Lucy went all the way to Boston. She wanted to buy new shoes. She had to go in many shops before she found the shoes she wanted. She was happy to stop at a restaurant to have some tea and cookies before she took the train back home. Count the number of “E” in this text: Last sum... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2320463 Mon, 06 Apr 2009 15:19:54 +0100 2320463 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2320467&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FOo0Lb0x7KHw%2F Here you have the March edition of our monthly newsletter covering cognitive health and brain fitness topics. Please remember that you can subscribe to receive this Newsletter by email, using the box at the top of this page. I know I am biased - but do believe this Newsletter issue might well be our best so far. I hope you find the time to enjoy it! Bird's Eye View Top Articles and Resources in March: Highlights - a) great articles in SciAm Mind and the Wall Street Journal, b) new resources (book and free DVD) by the Dana Foundation, c) research studies on how our cognitive abilities tend to evolve as we age, the impact of physical exercise on the brain, the lack of long-term effectiveness of ADHD drugs, and how working memory training may benefit math performance. Brain Fitness Survey: O... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2320467 Tue, 31 Mar 2009 04:07:56 +0100 2320467 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2293079&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=38275&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drjonathanreed.co.uk%2Fwordpress%2F2009%2F03%2Fthe-biochemistry-of-brain-training%2F This study in Science shows that 14 hours cognitive training using a computer game resulted in changes in the density of dopamine receptors.  These are exciting findings showing that change to brains at a fundamental level is possible using computer based learning.  It has major implications for the treatment of disorders such as ADHD as well as learning in general.  The important lesson is that brain training needs to be focused on specific brain areas and functions, namely the areas that have the most plasticity. (Source: Child Neuropsychology) Child Neuropsychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2293079 Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:52:41 +0100 2293079 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2259389&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F4-TgwBPmcCg%2F Here you have the presentation I delivered on Tuesday at ETech 2009 (this year's O'Reilly Emerging Technology Conference): Emerging Research and Technology for Life Hacking/ Brain Training (click to open presentation in new window) Description: Life hacking. Brain training. They are one and the same. The brain’s frontal lobes enable our goal-oriented behavior, supporting “executive functions,” such as decision-making, attention, emotional self-regulation, goal-setting, and working memory. These functions can be enhanced with targeted practice – such as life hacking. This session will provide an overview of the cognitive neuroscience underpinning life hacking, and review the state-of-the-art of non-invasive tools for brain training: neurofeedback, biofeedback, software applications... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2259389 Thu, 12 Mar 2009 22:53:32 +0100 2259389 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2259368&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=38275&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drjonathanreed.co.uk%2Fwordpress%2F2009%2F03%2Fdoes-brain-training-work%2F  There are a number of conflicting studies in the literature see Guardian games blog for example.  There has recently been a lot of interest in the Ninetendo DS brain training game although I am not aware of any published work on it’s effectiveness (but see this BBC site article for some anecdotal evidence.)  I would personally be surprised if the Nintendo brain training did work because the game is not training specific brain areas or functions and does not fit with contemporary neuropsychological theory.  The Brain has numerous functions linked to different anatomical areas and trying to train the whole thing at once is, I think nonsensical. Brain training will have to become a lot more targeted if it is to work.   There is some evidence that targeting specific ... Child Neuropsychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2259368 Mon, 09 Mar 2009 18:48:25 +0100 2259368 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2217627&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FgAFeyCIEMYo%2F CONCLUSIONS What those 2 recent studies say and imply • Cognitive training can help healthy adults improve specific cognitive skills, and improvements seem to last longer than the training itself (Willis et al., 2006; Smith et al., 2009). • Cognitive training can help adults in the early stages of cognitive impairment and dementia improve some cognitive skills (Sitzer et al, 2006) • One needs to make informed decisions. SharpBrains' Evaluation Checklist may prove useful. What neither study says or implies • Whether cognitive training can postpone the emergence of dementia: More long-term studies are needed. (We know that mentally stimulating activities can help build a Cognitive Reserve and delay symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease, but that evidence is not based on randomized clini... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2217627 Thu, 26 Feb 2009 18:21:56 +0100 2217627 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2170177&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F535195978%2F Round-up of recent news with a variety of angles, from the effects of gaming to cognitive training for driving skills and brain fitness classes. Seniors use brain training software to sharpen their minds (Dallas Morning News) - "Allstate Insurance has invited some policyholders and other older drivers to try InSight so researchers can evaluate whether the software reduces accidents." - "Depending on the results, the auto insurer says it may expand the pilot project and offer premium discounts to drivers who take the brain training." - "Today, only one in seven licensed drivers is 65 or older. But by 2030, when the last of the boomers turn 65, the proportion will be one in four. " Brain games (Palo Alto Weekly) - "There is research that justifies the belie... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2170177 Sun, 08 Feb 2009 23:54:42 +0100 2170177 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2151002&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sharpbrains.com%2Fblog%2F2009%2F02%2F01%2Fupdate-learning-about-learning-more-on-brain-age%2F Here you have the January edition of our monthly newsletter covering cognitive health and brain fitness topics. Please remember that you can subscribe to receive this Newsletter by email, simply by submitting your email at the top of this page. Bird's Eye View Brain fitness heads towards its tipping point: How do you know when something is moving towards a Gladwellian tipping point? When health insurance companies and public policy makers launch significant initiatives. Dr. Gerard Finnemore provides a market overview, based on SharpBrains' client webinar held last December. Ten Reflections on Cognitive Health and Assessments: Here are 10 highlights from several stimulating January events:?? Symposium on Adaptive Technology for the Aging (by Arizona State University), Health Bloggers' Summ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2151002 Mon, 02 Feb 2009 04:18:41 +0100 2151002 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2160939&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F531109479%2F We present a very complex task, mixing different forms of stimuli (auditory, visual) under time pressure. - Designed for Transferability: The tasks can be designed in a way that do not allow for the development of task-specific "strategies" to beat the game. One needs to truly expand capacity, and this helps ensure the transfer of to non-trained tasks." brain age, Brain Training, brain training games, cognitive benefits, cognitive psychology, crossword puzzles, enhance intelligence, fluid intelligence, intelligence, Lieury, nintendo, Nintendo Brain Age, nintendo brain training, Rise of Nations, videogame (Source: SharpBrains) SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2160939 Tue, 27 Jan 2009 23:14:48 +0100 2160939 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2116515&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F517237108%2F How do you know when something is fast moving towards a Gladwellian tipping point? When health insurance companies and public policy makers launch significant initiatives. For example, the government of Ontario recently announced a $10 million investment with Baycrest Research Centre who will partner with MaRS Venture Group to develop and commercialise brain fitness technologies. The investment was matched by an additional $10 million from private sources. Another important development was the $18 million agreement between the Australian-based Brain Resource Company (ASX:BRC) and OptumHealth in the US. This will allow for the provision of web-based cognitive assessments as part of a clinician’s decision support systems. These are some initiatives covered in a webinar Top Ten Cognitive Fi... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2116515 Tue, 20 Jan 2009 03:32:32 +0100 2116515 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2116516&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F516782566%2F Brain Fitness Coming to Senior Exercise Classes (press release): - "The American Senior Fitness Association (SFA) has announced a new brain fitness training program designed for exercise professionals. Brain Fitness for Older Adults teaches senior fitness instructors and personal trainers how to incorporate effective cognitive fitness into physical activity programs, offering seniors the opportunity to boost both physical and mental fitness simultaneously." Comment: a very timely initiative, given the interest we see in brain fitness education and initiatives, and the benefits of both physical and mental exercise on brain health. It makes a lot of sense to enhance public awareness through train-the-trainer initiatives. What remains unclear in this SFA program is what is the direc... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2116516 Mon, 19 Jan 2009 17:39:25 +0100 2116516 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2093187&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F504623626%2F NeuroActive Bike: America’s First and Only Mind-Body Fitness Equipment Launched at Lady of America Fitness Centers (press release) - "The patent-pending bike, engineered by Dr. Bergeron and BCA (Brain Center America)’s international team of brain specialists, makes its U.S. debut this month at Lady of America (LOA) fitness centers." - "Users of the NeuroActive Bike may select from 22 brain-stimulating exercises that train different parts of the brain, including: memory of names and faces, 3D visuo-spatial skills, concentration, word naming and arithmetic. As they pedal, they manipulate a wireless mouse to interact with the computer and complete the NeuroActive Program" In our 2008 market report we offered Top 10 Brain Training Future Trends, inc... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2093187 Tue, 06 Jan 2009 20:45:53 +0100 2093187 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2079027&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F495728856%2F This article provides is a very good market overview. The reporter and I also discussed in depth the need for better consumer education and professional development, so people can make informed decisions, and for cognitive assessments to serve as independent baseline, help identify priorities and measure results. Please note that our market estimates do include revenues of computerized cognitive assessments, today mostly used in clinical trials, and wthin the military and sports teams. 2) Navigating the brain fitness landscape: do's and don'ts (McKnight's Long Term Care News) Comment: "Choosing the right cognitive fitness product or program for senior living residents is harder than it sounds. But understanding residents' needs, identifying your objectives and considering the total c... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2079027 Fri, 26 Dec 2008 18:03:07 +0100 2079027 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2079029&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F493454114%2F Here you have SharpBrains' 30 most popular articles, ranked by the number of people who have read each article in 2008. Please note that, since the first article already includes most of our most popular brain teasers, we have excluded teasers from the rest of the ranking. (If those 50 are not enough for you, you can also try these brain teasers). --- Blog Channel Article Brain teasers 1. Top 50 Brain Teasers and Games to Test your Brain It is always good to stimulate our minds and to learn a bit about how our brains work. Here you have a selection of the 50 Brain Teasers that people have enjoyed the most. Health & Wellness 2. The Ten Habits of Highly Effective Brains Let's review some good lifestyle options we can follow to maintain, and improve, our vibrant brains. My fa... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2079029 Tue, 23 Dec 2008 20:55:23 +0100 2079029 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2053747&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F489099510%2F "USA Hockey Inc., is the national governing body for the sport of ice hockey in the United States. As such, its mission is to promote the growth of hockey and provide the best possible experience for all participants by encouraging, developing, advancing and administering the sport." Why do we talk about ice hockey in a  brain fitness blog? Well, we recently announced this very innovative initiative, and now can offer more context: USA Hockey and Intelligym: - "USA Hockey, with partners ACE (Applied Cognitive Engineering) and the BIRD (Binational Industrial Research and Development) Foundation, have announced plans to develop a revolutionary product that will, for the first time ever, provide players a training tool to develop “hockey sense.” - "To be called Hockey... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2053747 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 22:43:31 +0100 2053747 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2034174&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F481793752%2F Crisp CNN article: Boom times for brain training games Including my final quote "[Brain fitness] is not just some fad. The market is much deeper than Nintendo." The "brain fitness center" financed by Ontario is Baycrest. Companies mentioned: Mindfit, Posit Science, Nintendo, Allstate, BrainBuilder, MyBrainTrainer. The reporter and I also discussed in depth the need for better consumer education and professional development, so people can make informed decisions, and for cognitive assessments to serve as independent baseline, help identify priorities and measure results. Please note that our market estimates do include revenues of computerized cognitive assessments, today mostly used in clinical trials, and wthin the military and sports teams. Allstate, Baycrest, Bra... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2034174 Thu, 11 Dec 2008 18:34:54 +0100 2034174 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1915410&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F433602787%2F You may have already seen that our Teasers section contains not only our selection of Top 50 Brain Teasers and Games, but also a regularly updated page with latest Games for the Brain. Below you have the brain games and teasers we have added in 2008 so far. Ready? - October 2008: Top Brainy Haikus. Yours?. - September 2008: What is going on with these pictures?. - September 2008: 7 Brainteasers for Job Interviews. - August 2008: Can you use mental self rotation to read a map?. - August 2008: Spot the Differences! how many are there?. - July 2008: Top 25 Brain and Mind Haikus. Yours?. - June 2008: Consider Linda's job prospects. - June 2008: Spot the Difference for a frontal/ occipital/ parietal workout - May 2008. Word game: stimulate your temporal lobe. - April 2008. Your Haiku, Please... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1915410 Mon, 27 Oct 2008 14:03:35 +0100 1915410 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1883906&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F423353702%2F This article summarizes the main market dynamics, open questions, and top trends to watch for. Nourishing Our Brains and Minds Teaching is the Art of Changing the Brain: Laurie Bartels promises, "I have read a number of books that translate current brain research into practice while providing practical suggestions for teachers to implement. This is the first book I have read that provides a biological, and clearly rational, overview of learning and the brain." Go and enjoy her review of a very interesting book by James Zull, Director Emeritus of the University Center for Innovation in Teaching and Education at Case Western Reserve. Philosophy as the Missing Link in School Curricula: Kimberly Wickham answers provides some good answers to the question, "Why would anyone want... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1883906 Fri, 17 Oct 2008 04:29:25 +0100 1883906 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1880646&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F421176296%2F This article was co-written by Drs. Simon Evans and Paul Burghardt. Drs. Evans and who currently collaborate in the University of  Michigan’s Department of Psychiatry, and the Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience Institute to study the effects of nutrition and exercise on brain function. They are co-authors of BrainFit For Life: A User's Guide to Life-Long Brain Health and Fitness. Antioxidants, brain fitness industry, brain fitness programs, Brain health, Brain Training, BrainFit, cognitive capacities, cognitive decline, cognitive health, emotional capacities, emotional regulation, exercise, hippocampus, improve brain function, improve cognitive function, improve memory, life, meditative focus, mental activity, Neurogenesis, neuroscience, Nutrition, optimal sleep, oxygen, physical he... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1880646 Wed, 15 Oct 2008 03:37:09 +0100 1880646 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1880647&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F420552891%2F Have you ever wondered how we can maintain SharpBrains website, blog and newsletter without selling any product and with only limited advertising? People often ask us that question, especially once we explain that we don't sell products (selling products would present a conflict of interest given our mission to "provide individuals, companies and institutions with high-quality, research-based, information and guidance to navigate the growing cognitive and brain fitness market".) The answer is, we offer proprietary market research and advisory services to organizations such as these. They want to fully understand emerging Brain Fitness and Cognitive Health trends, opportunities and challenges, in order to make better-informed decisions. Examples: - leading healthcare providers eva... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1880647 Tue, 14 Oct 2008 13:51:38 +0100 1880647 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1871342&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F416891408%2F As you have probably seen, the Cognitive Health and Brain Fitness field is rapidly evolving, so let me highlight some of the main recent developments affecting the field: 1) Public policy initiatives: - The Government of Ontario, Canada, announced a $10m investment in Baycrest Research Center to help develop and commercialize brain fitness technologies. This $10m investment was matched with an additional $10m by local investors. - In the US, The Paul Wellstone and Pete Domenici Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008 was signed into law, included in the recently-approved economic bailout bill. The passage of this law has significant implications for healthcare providers and technology vendors alike. 2) Computerized Cognitive Assessments Used by the US Military: The US Army ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1871342 Fri, 10 Oct 2008 15:36:37 +0100 1871342 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1860077&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F414499048%2F Over the next weeks we are going to be sharing the Executive Summary of our market report The State of the Brain Fitness Software Market 2008 with members and clients of several partner organizations (the British Columbia Seniors Living Association, where I will be speaking this Thursday, Neurotech Reports, where I will speak on October 24th, and the Health 2.0 conference, where we are sponsoring a panel on gaming for health), so it is only fair that we first share it with our own readers. Executive Summary A spate of recent global news coverage on brain fitness and brain training reflects a growing interest in natural, non drug-based interventions to keep our brains sharp as we age. This interest is very timely, given an aging population, increasing prevalence of Alzheimer’s rates, ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1860077 Wed, 08 Oct 2008 05:17:34 +0100 1860077 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1853992&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F411408487%2F Thank you to everyone who has written so many fun haikus over the summer (following the post Top 25 Brain and Mind Haikus. Yours?). These are the 10 I have enjoyed the most: (Also, Can you write a haiku describing anything crossing your mind now? Remember the simple rules: write 3 lines, which don't need to rhyme, containing 5,7, and 5 syllables. You can leave your haiku as a comment below for extra points...) ----- Top 10 Brainy Haikus - enjoy! - Amit: Love, college, career. A new world of transitions. Will I survive? Yes. - Kathy: My release technique, Forgive, forget, love all, Meditate on that! - Alan: Through the microscope, slice of brain stains pink and blue, the wonder of thought. - Justin: Justin the genieus Must spell check the word genius to post this Haiku - Tim: writing quick... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1853992 Sat, 04 Oct 2008 22:02:25 +0100 1853992 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1848355&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F408387719%2F Insurance company Allstate and brain fitness software developer Posit Science just announced (see press release Protecting Pennsylvania Drivers, One Brain at a Time) a very intelligent initiative: Video exercises aid driving skills (Chicago Tribune) -"Allstate, which called the Posit program "potentially the next big breakthrough in automobile safety," said it expects its software exercises to reduce risky driving maneuvers by up to 40 percent and improve stopping distance by an average of 22 feet when traveling at 55 miles per hour." -"We'll look to see whether over the next six to nine months there will be a reduction in" the number of accidents between the group participating in the video exercises and those sitting out, said Tom Warden, assistant vice pres... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1848355 Wed, 01 Oct 2008 19:43:57 +0100 1848355 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1845424&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F407499879%2F We just received this quote of how a major health system is using our Brain Fitness Market Report: "At Sutter Health Partners we recognize the importance of brain health and how much the health of the brain and the body are interdependent.  The market report helped us further target our coaching efforts to integrate brain fitness and upgrade our entire coaching platform.  It is easy to read and gives you the industry perspective in a thorough yet concise manner.  I highly recommend it!" -- Margaret Sabin, CEO of Sutter Health Partners and VP, New Product Development, at Sutter Health. You may wonder, "what is the link between  wellness coaching and brain fitness"? In practice, good health and wellness coaches provide excellent brain health advice, given that the are... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1845424 Tue, 30 Sep 2008 18:18:33 +0100 1845424 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1841046&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=34954&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneurofeedback.blogharbor.com%2Fblog%2F_archives%2F2008%2F9%2F25%2F3900797.html Is the internet your brain's friend? I was asked a question by someone who was in a discussion about the internet and its influence on our brains. Specifically, they were talking about whether there is any truth to some recent work showing that the internet, and how we (you, your children) are using it, is making us dumber. So the question posed to me was.... Wondering if you have any thoughts/insights on the changing nature of the brain, with increased internet commnunications, and the prevalence of tools like Google to locate information? My answer was: (Source: Neurofeedback on the Brain) Neurofeedback on the Brain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1841046 Thu, 25 Sep 2008 19:18:59 +0100 1841046 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1829177&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=34954&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneurofeedback.blogharbor.com%2Fblog%2F_archives%2F2008%2F9%2F25%2F3900797.html Is the internet your brain's friend? I was asked a question by someone who was in a discussion about the internet and its influence on our brains. Specifically, they were talking about whether there is any truth to some recent work showing that the internet, and how we (you, your children) are using it, is making us dumber. So the question posed to me was.... Wondering if you have any thoughts/insights on the changing nature of the brain, with increased internet commnunications, and the prevalence of tools like Google to locate information? My answer was: (Source: Neurofeedback on the Brain) Neurofeedback on the Brain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1829177 Thu, 25 Sep 2008 19:18:59 +0100 1829177 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1833697&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F403024865%2F Computer game boosts maths scores (BBC): - "It also found improvements in pupils' concentration and behaviour." - "The study involved more than 600 pupils in 32 schools across Scotland using the Brain Training from Dr Kawashima game on the Nintendo DS every day." - "Researchers found that while all groups had improved their scores, the group using the game had improved by a further 50%." - "Less able children were found to be more likely to improve than the highest attainers and almost all pupils had an increased perception of their own ability." Comment:  fascinating results supporting the potential role for "Serious Games" in education. Now, please take the results with a grain of salt, since the study doesn't seem to have been published... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1833697 Thu, 25 Sep 2008 18:20:46 +0100 1833697 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1826754&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F402296770%2F Brain-fitness plan can improve memory (Sydney Morning Herald), reports on the recent endorsement of Posit Science's programs (Posit Science Program Classic, focused on auditory processing training, and Posit Science Cortex™ with InSight™, on visual processing). Quotes: - "While the group says it has concerns about endorsing a commercial product selling for almost $400, it is confident the benefits to the community will be wide-ranging." - "Likely purchasers of the program include nursing homes, libraries and telecentres and groups supporting and servicing dementia sufferers." - "This is core business for us ... one of our clear strategic objectives is to assist the community to reduce the risk of developing dementia," Alzheimer's Australia strategic direct... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1826754 Wed, 24 Sep 2008 18:47:49 +0100 1826754 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1826755&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F400952839%2F Great article in the New York Times titled Training Young Brains to Behave. A couple of quotes: - "But just as biology shapes behavior, so behavior can accelerate biology. And a small group of educational and cognitive scientists now say that mental exercises of a certain kind can teach children to become more self-possessed at earlier ages, reducing stress levels at home and improving their experience in school. Researchers can test this ability, which they call executive function, and they say it is more strongly associated with school success than I.Q." - “We know that the prefrontal cortex is not fully developed until the 20s, and some people will ask, ‘Why are you trying to improve prefrontal abilities when the biological substrate is not there yet?’ ” said Adele Di... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1826755 Tue, 23 Sep 2008 16:45:26 +0100 1826755 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1806311&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=34954&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneurofeedback.blogharbor.com%2Fblog%2F_archives%2F2008%2F9%2F18%2F3890435.html Sorry to go missing for the summer - I seemed to have taken a writing-free vacation! But I"m trying to ease myself back into communicating with the outside world . So let's get (re-)started.... There has been a lot of talk about mindfulness this days and lots of expensive courses to teach you "how to do it". Why is this approach so popular and is it worth the time to learn and practice it? I'm going to suggest that yes, it is. And that's because practicing mindfulness gives your brain a chance to allow old, less useful/unproductive "thought ruts" to weaken and change. That means you're less likely to just automatically go down the same old thought and feeling-roads you may be taking that cause you distress. I've had a couple of posts on this topic in the past, but I recently received a... Neurofeedback on the Brain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1806311 Thu, 18 Sep 2008 16:38:00 +0100 1806311 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1803239&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F394328100%2F Here you have the twice-a-month newsletter with our most popular blog posts. Please remember that you can subscribe to receive this Newsletter by email, simply by submitting your email at the top of this page. There is one type of "brain fitness program" which is not only free but also pays you back. You guessed it, that program is your "job". Our occupations can provide beneficial mental exercise if they incorporate the key ingredients of novelty, variety, and challenge, and are not a source of chronic stress. We start today's newsletter with two articles related to the brain value of having mentally stimulating jobs. Your Brain At Work Your Brain At Work Brochure: Aren't "talent" and "human capital" all about brain fitness and cognitive performanc... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1803239 Tue, 16 Sep 2008 16:13:01 +0100 1803239 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1739843&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F377334040%2F Here you have a roundup of interesting recent news on cognitive health topics and my commentary: 1) Playing Video Games Offers Learning Across Life Span, Say Studies 2) Mental Floss at Military Officer Magazine 3) Brain Training dominates '08 Euro sales (CVG Online) 4) Dakim’s [m]Power Adopted by 150 Senior Living Communities ... (Business Wire) 5) Clumsy kids more likely to become obese adults: study (CBC) ------------------- 1) There were a few interesting research papers presented at the last  American Psychological Association conventions around the theme: Playing Video Games Offers Learning Across Life Span, Say Studies --Skills Transfer to Classroom, Surgical Procedures, Scientific Thinking (press release). Probably the most interesting study was that of 303 laparoscopic surgeons,... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1739843 Thu, 28 Aug 2008 23:20:38 +0100 1739843 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1710227&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F366898875%2F From a recent article: Brain Training dominates '08 Euro sales (CVG Online) - "Overall, four of the ten bestselling DS games in both countries during the first six months of 2008 were in the brain training genre." - "According to data released by sales monitor Media Control GfK International, the DS's heavyweight status in the European console market is closely tied to the popularity of Nintendo's Brain Training series and other brain training titles." - "The biggest demand for brain games is in Germany and Holland", the company said. More Brain Training was the bestselling title in Germany during the first six months of the year, while Brain Training topped the Dutch chart during the same period. Fascinating. Will brain-training-induced employee-productivity... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1710227 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 02:10:44 +0100 1710227 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1710229&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F365164449%2F Here you have the twice-a-month newsletter with our most popular blog posts. Please remember that you can subscribe to receive this Newsletter by email, simply by submitting your email at the top of this page.  First, I am pleased to report that I have been invited to participate in a new initiative by the World Economic Forum. Described as "In a global environment marked by short-term orientation and silo-thinking, Global Agenda Councils will foster interdisciplinary and long-range thinking to address the prevailing challenges on the global agenda", my specific Council will focus on the Challenges of Gerontology. More information on the Global Agenda Councils here. Will keep you updated via this blog. In the News Yes, It is Smart to Learn New Tricks: a recent Washingto... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1710229 Thu, 14 Aug 2008 22:32:30 +0100 1710229 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1701780&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F363005439%2F Dr. Pascale Michelon recently shared with our readers which brain areas and cognitive functions are engaged as we solve the type of brain teaser known as Spot the Difference, where we have to find the differences between two versions of one image: "1) You have to identify the objects that you see: this involves your occipital lobes (in red). 2) You have to analyzed the spatial relationships between the objects that you see: this involves your occipital and parietal lobes (in green). 3) You have to remember what you see in one picture and compare it to what you see in the other picture, that is you have to use your short-term memory: this involves your frontal (in blue) and parietal lobes. 4) You have to mark down the locations where you see a difference: this involves mostly yo... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1701780 Tue, 12 Aug 2008 14:08:57 +0100 1701780 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1696706&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F362094663%2F In the post Top 10 Brain Training Future Trends I asked for suggestions to refine our predictions for the 2007-2015 period. A good number of people contributed, and the winner is... Scott Spears, retired public schools superintendent. His prediction:  "Prediction 11: The notion of schooling will be structurally dramatically altered through the use of diagnostics related to the acquisition and improvement of basic cognitive skills (such as brain processing speed, attention, memory, and sequencing), along with prescriptions employing emerging brain fitness software exercises, beginning in the earliest grades and progressing through high school. Schools will be structured around the acquisition of foundational cognitive skills, related physical fitness to support brain fitness, student... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1696706 Tue, 12 Aug 2008 01:00:56 +0100 1696706 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1689397&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F358994501%2F Back in July, I wrote a post entitled 10 Brain Tips To Teach and Learn. Those tips apply to students of any age, including adults, for ideally adults are still learners. Why is adult learning relevant in a brain-focused blog, you may wonder: The short of it… As we age, our brain: • still forms new brain cells • can change its structure & function • finds positive stress can be beneficial; negative stress can be detrimental • can thrive on novel challenges • needs to be exercised, just like our bodies The long of it… Adults may have a tendency to get set in their ways – I’ve been doing it this way for a long time and it works, so why change? Turns out, though, that change can be a way to keep aging brains healthy. At the April Learning & the Brain conference, the... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1689397 Fri, 08 Aug 2008 02:31:48 +0100 1689397 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1689398&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F357706834%2F The August issue of Venture Capital Journal brings a very good piece on the emerging brain fitness software  (also called "neurosoftware") category:  -- Mind Games (subscription required) -- Dakim, Lumos Labs, Posit Science and other “brain fitness” startups are starting to gain mind share — and capital — from venture firms. The reporter and I spoke as Lumos Labs received its $3m round, and we discussed other fundable start-ups, featuring CogniFit. Which, as mentioned over the weekend, just raised $5m. If case you are a new SharpBrains reader, perhaps visiting us after reading this VCJ article, let me provide a quick overview of the category and our Market Report (which is annual, not quarterly as the article states): A) Report Highlights We estimate the size of the U... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1689398 Wed, 06 Aug 2008 19:54:55 +0100 1689398 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1664183&cid=t_153005_113_f&fid=34637&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgaggio.blogspirit.com%2Farchive%2F2008%2F07%2F29%2Fauditory-and-spatial-navigation-imagery-in-brain-computer-in.html Authors: Cabrera AF, Dremstrup K Features extracted with optimized wavelets were compared with standard methods for a Brain-Computer Interface driven by non-motor imagery tasks. Two non-motor imagery tasks were used, Auditory Imagery of a familiar tune and Spatial Navigation Imagery through a familiar environment. The aims of this study were to evaluate which method extracts features that could be best differentiated and determine which channels are best suited for classification. EEG activity from 18 electrodes over the temporal and parietal lobes of nineteen healthy subjects was recorded. The features used were autoregressive and reflection coefficients extracted using autoregressive modeling with several model orders and marginals of the wavelet spaces generated by the Discrete Wavelet ... Positive Technology Journal blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1664183 Tue, 29 Jul 2008 20:17:47 +0100 1664183 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1652923&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F345368972%2F Busy as we have been, we only recently compiled the list of organizations who have purchased our Brain Fitness Market Report so far. We were impressed by the quality and variety represented, and the cross-sector demand for quality information in the emerging brain fitness/ cognitive health category. Seeing the list helps us prioritize efforts and coverage of market and research news and trends. Below you have a selection of main categories, and a few selected clients: · Research centers and universities: Harvard Medical School, US Army Research Lab, Oregon Center for Applied Science, University of Texas at Austin, University of Michigan. · Older adults organizations and communities: American Association of Retired People (AARP), Sunrise Senior Living, Belmont Village Senior Living. ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1652923 Fri, 25 Jul 2008 06:12:55 +0100 1652923 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1649634&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F343731943%2F In an emerging, dynamic, high growth market, like brain training, it is difficult to make precise projections. But, we can observe a number of trends that executives, consumers, public policy makers, and the media should watch closely in the coming years, as brain fitness and training becomes mainstream, new tools appear, and an ecosystem grows around it. 1. We predict an increased emphasis on brain maintenance in locations ranging from retirement communities to gyms. As a computer-savvy baby boomer population looks for ways to stay mentally fit, brain fitness, or brain training, is becoming part of their vocabulary and concern. 2. Physical and mental exercise will be better integrated. Physical exercise has been shown to increase the rate of neurogenesis, whereas mental exercise helps ens... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1649634 Thu, 24 Jul 2008 10:49:38 +0100 1649634 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1630984&cid=t_153005_113_f&fid=34637&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgaggio.blogspirit.com%2Farchive%2F2008%2F07%2F16%2Feinstein-s-brain-game.html Via MobileGames  The Walt Disney Internet Group has released the "Einstein's Brain Game". The game proposes 20 brain training exercises covering Einstein’s theories of relativity and ideas about the solar system. It features 4 categories - maths, memory, logic and visual coordination, as well as a bonus Sudoku puzzle game, to give the brain a thorough work-out.   (Source: Positive Technology Journal) Positive Technology Journal blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1630984 Wed, 16 Jul 2008 14:36:04 +0100 1630984 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1575896&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F326177263%2F What's the ultimate "brain training"? Learning. We at SharpBrains love to learn, and to see others learn. That's why we hope you enjoy this essay by educator Laurie Bartels as much as we do. --- 10 Brain Tips That Help Me Teach…and Learn -- By Laurie Bartels My natural rhythms are in cycle with the school calendar. January 1st takes a back seat to my new year, which gets ushered in with the month of September when there is crispness in the air that gradually shakes off the slower, more relaxed pace of summer. Conveniently, my career in teaching meshes with my natural cyclical year. And as this year draws to a close, I am reenergized by the pace of summer, knowing that anything may pop in to my mind as I engage in activities not directly related to school. But before that happen... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1575896 Thu, 03 Jul 2008 22:53:43 +0100 1575896 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1553306&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F322096605%2F Try eating food with one chop stick.  It is possible, for certain types of food. But probably not the best approach. Let's now talk brain health. Dr. Larry McCleary is a former acting Chief of Pediatric Neurosurgery at Denver Children's Hospital, and author of the The Brain Trust Program (Perigee Trade, 2007). He agreed to help us answer an important, yet often neglected, question: Given That We Are Our Brains, How do We Nourish Them? Alvaro: Dr. McCleary, Why did a former neurosurgeon such as yourself develop an interest in brain health public education? Dr. McCleary: For two reasons ... I am a Boomer and am trying to maximize my own brain health. Also, there is much exciting research documenting how we can be proactive in this regard. This information needs to be disseminated and I woul... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1553306 Sat, 28 Jun 2008 16:20:06 +0100 1553306 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1544539&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F319104093%2F A few colleagues referred me over the weekend to a very nice article at business publication Portfolio. While the article does an excellent job at introducing the reader to the concept and promise of computerized cognitive assessments, it also contributes to the mythology of "Brain Age". Let's first take a look at the article How Smart Are You: The business of assessing cognition and memory is moving from testing brain-impaired patients to assessing healthy peoples' brains online. A couple of quotes:  - "Cognitive Drug Research is one a handful of businesses, most of them outside of the U.S., that work with pharmaceutical companies to test how new drugs for everything from nicotine addiction to Alzheimer’s disease affect the mind’s ability to remember things, make deci... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1544539 Tue, 24 Jun 2008 17:15:14 +0100 1544539 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1538269&cid=t_153005_109_f&fid=35677&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FBrainBasedBusiness%2F%7E3%2F318147213%2Fcould_brain_fitness_boost_univ.html Can you imagine a center for more effective learning, teaching and assessment -that grows parallel with the brain’s real capabilities? New discoveries at the University of Michigan, now affirm through Joe Serwach's publication that brain training can improve memory and problem solving skills. Will it change what faculty and students do together on campus … or will it promote high-performance minds? Imagine a university setting  that strengthens your ability to remember and motivates you to solve complex problems, and you’ll see where this call for action is going.Since science is shedding light on how brains work best through doing and how to transform complex concepts into doable actions … higher education can lift its ... BrainBasedBusiness blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1538269 Mon, 23 Jun 2008 15:34:57 +0100 1538269 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1532291&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F315095475%2F One of the best articles so far on the growing brain fitness market, by the Associated Press. Click Here to check out story: "This is not just a Nintendo-fueled fad," he says. "The brain fitness market passed a tipping point in 2007 thanks to the convergence of a very proactive boomer generation hitting their 60s." Article: Here. Highly recommended.  Now, as you read it, please remember the theme of our most recent newsletter: Emerging Tools, Not Magic Pills. And, for all new readers who are joining us given the extra coverage (CNN, CBS, CHicago Tribune, dozens of other papers and websites), let me reprint now an article I wrote here in February: ----------------- A spate of recent news coverage on brain fitness and "brain training" reflects a growing inte... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1532291 Thu, 19 Jun 2008 03:10:27 +0100 1532291 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1522806&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F313494874%2F Several hundred people participated in our first Brain Fitness Webinar Series, and are glad how the experiment well. We are already thinking of topics and speakers for a second one, so stay tuned! In case you couldn't attend them, we are sharing the slides we used (we did not record the webinar sessions). Here you go: Webinar #1: In “The State of the Brain Fitness Software Market, 2008,” I provided an overview of the science, market, and vendor landscape of the emerging brain fitness software market, based on our recent market report. - Target audience: Executives, professionals, investors, reporters and bloggers interested in learning more about the brain fitness market. - More information: Market Report. Slides: Here Webinar #2: In “Brain Rules for Thinking Smarter,” John Medin... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1522806 Tue, 17 Jun 2008 03:29:20 +0100 1522806 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1509844&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F309354311%2F Our fellow blogger Jeremy over at PsyBlog has written a thoughtful post comparing the value of a number of cognitive enhancing tools. His overall verdict? "The evidence for exercise boosting cognitive function is head-and-shoulders above that for brain training, drugs, nutritional supplements and meditation. Scientifically, on the current evidence, exercise is the best way to enhance your cognitive function. And as for its side-effects: yes there is the chance of an injury but exercise can also reduce weight, lower the chance of dementia, improve mood and lead to a longer life-span. Damn those side-effects!" Article: Which Cognitive Enhancers Really Work: Brain Training, Drugs, Vitamins, Meditation or Exercise? Jeremy, I started writing this as a comment to your post in your bl... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1509844 Wed, 11 Jun 2008 06:42:31 +0100 1509844 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1498076&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F305061756%2F A few quick updates:  1)  Yesterday we had a fun webinar with John Medina, author of Brain Rules: 12 Principles for Surviving and Thriving at Work, Home, and School. You may enjoy checking out the slides we discussed. 2) Please remember that there is another webinar coming, next Tuesday. I hope you can join us! Webinar: In “The Science and Practice of Brain Fitness,” I will provide an overview of the Brain 101, latest research findings and implications for how to improve brain health and performance based on my class at UC-Berkeley Lifelong Learning Institute and speaking engagements. - Target audience: Anyone who wants to learn more about brain health and performance. This is designed to be not a technical session, but a fun, stimulating hour. - Date and time: Tuesday June 10th, ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1498076 Thu, 05 Jun 2008 05:17:21 +0100 1498076 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1489343&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F303811123%2F Press release: Here  -- "Lumos Labs, developer of Lumosity.com, the leading web-based provider of scientifically-tested brain training games, today announced that it has raised $3 million of equity financing from Pequot Ventures, Norwest Venture Partners (NVP), and existing investors including Michael Dearing. The investor group brings expertise that will catalyze the ongoing development of Lumosity.com and support Lumos Labs’ mission to improve lives by enhancing brain fitness. -- “Lumos Labs is at the center of a booming interest in cognitive exercise and the emerging science about the remarkable plasticity of the brain, said Amish Jani of Pequot Ventures. Lumosity.com has seen tremendous demand from users and partners alike by leveraging the power of the web to deliver a uniqu... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1489343 Tue, 03 Jun 2008 20:39:25 +0100 1489343 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1489344&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F302622796%2F This reports gives anyone interested in how to understand which products are truly in a position to make a difference in brain function, and which markets will be interested and profitable for such products an invaluable guide. We found the analysis clear, precise, loaded with substantive insight. One would be foolhardy not to use this publication as the best guide to this market." -- Dr. Arthur Lavin, Associate Clinical Professor of Pediatrics, Case Medical School, and Medical Director of A Working Mind. "As we begin the task of developing a Brain Fitness Center at our Sunrise Senior Living Community, this Brain Fitness Market Report is proving helpful in numerous ways to develop our “road map” to navigate through the maze of information, myths and confusion that exists as ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1489344 Mon, 02 Jun 2008 00:22:40 +0100 1489344 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1484914&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=34954&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneurofeedback.blogharbor.com%2Fblog%2F_archives%2F2008%2F6%2F1%2F3724103.html This is 52 minute television program from Dan Rather that covers a wealth of information about the brain, its plasticity, its connections with meditation and other ways we can change our brain's functioning. A bit of commitment...but worth it for the overview on brain plasticity.... (Source: Neurofeedback on the Brain) Neurofeedback on the Brain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1484914 Sun, 01 Jun 2008 21:13:00 +0100 1484914 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1481146&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F301607877%2F In conclusion, it looks like one can use training to boost one’s fluid intelligence," says Dr. Pascale Michelon, based on a recent study. Education and Training Try Thinking and Learning Without Working Memory: Quick! Can you recite backwards the 7 digits of your phone number? Bill Klemm answers some key questions on thinking and working memory, in one of the most insightful articles on the subject we have seen. Health and Wellness Manage Stress for Your Brain Health: Insightful essay on stress management and brain health written by Landon, as part of one of our student essay contests. Study: Meditation Against ADHD: In order to fight attention deficits...does it make sense to develop the "mental muscles" to pay attention? Take a quick look at the topic, posted at th... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1481146 Sat, 31 May 2008 02:01:22 +0100 1481146 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1478518&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F300818189%2F We had an informative webinar this Tuesday, discussing the State of the Brain Fitness Software market today, based on the findings in our Market Report. In case you missed it, you can find below a link to check out and download the PowerPoint slides I presented (just the visuals, without audio) to cover these areas: 1- The Four Pillars for Brain Health 2- Cognitive Abilities can Be Assesed and Trained 3- An emerging field, and poised to grow 4- A confusing player landscape. Think "What For", not "Best". Link: State of the Brain Fitness Software Market 2008 Please remember that we have 2 upcoming webinars, and you can still register!: Webinar #2: In “Brain Rules for Thinking Smarter,” John Medina, developmental molecular biologist and author of Brain Rules: 12 P... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1478518 Thu, 29 May 2008 23:06:47 +0100 1478518 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1459144&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F294743841%2F In recent years, most professionals in aging have become aware of the growing scientific evidence showing that human brains retain the ability to generate neurons and change over a lifetime, discoveries that have broken the scientific paradigm prevalent during the 20th century. Furthermore, neuroimaging and cognitive training studies are showing how well-directed exercise presents people major opportunities for healthy brain aging. How can people use emerging technologies to keep their brains healthy and productive as long as possible? An emerging market for brain health-- $225 million market in 2007, in the United States alone, of which consumers account for $80 million--is trying to address that question in a way that complements other important more traditional pillars (and multi-billio... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1459144 Wed, 21 May 2008 03:29:03 +0100 1459144 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1411940&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F281148688%2F Here you are have the bi-monthly update with our 10 most Popular blog posts. (Also, remember that you can subscribe to receive our RSS feed, or to our newsletter, at the top of this page, if you want to receive this digest by email). In this edition of our newsletter we bring a few articles and recent news pieces that shed light on what "Use It or Lose It" means, and why we can start going beyond that to say "Use It and Improve It." The Neuron, The Brain, and Thinking Smarter New Neurons: Good News, Bad News: Dr. Bill Klemm, a professor of Neuroscience at Texas A&M University, summarizes the research on how new neurons are born and what they need to live long happy lives. Interviews with 16 Leading Scientists: Compilation of interviews with prominent neurosc... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1411940 Thu, 01 May 2008 00:40:23 +0100 1411940 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1407592&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F279996616%2F Quick update: 2 very interesting news, 2 excellent blog carnivals. 1) Forget Brain Age: Researchers Develop Software That Makes You Smarter (Wired). Thanks Senia! - "In a limited trial, he and his team were able to make 34 test subjects significantly better at answering IQ test questions after training them on a completely separate memory task"  -"These are intriguing results," Geary said. However, Geary noted that to claim actual increases in fluid intelligence, the subjects would have to show the performance gains over a long-term period --- or even permanently. -The Michigan researchers are now engaged in studying the long-term effects of training. They are also working to increase the amount of training that users undergo. In the experiment reported in PNAS, the ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1407592 Tue, 29 Apr 2008 10:28:37 +0100 1407592 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1395269&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F276633288%2F We are working on improving several sections of our website, especially our Resources section. It will look much better in a few days. Our first step has been to re-organize our Neuroscience Interview Series, and below you have how it looks today. During the last 18 months I have had the fortune to interview over 15 cutting-edge neuroscientists and cognitive psychologists on their research and thoughts. Here are some of our favorite quotes (you can read the full interview notes by clicking on the links):   “Learning is physical. Learning means the modification, growth, and pruning of our neurons, connections–called synapses– and neuronal networks, through experience...When we do so, we are cultivating our own neuronal networks. We become our own gardeners”- Dr. James Zull, Pr... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1395269 Thu, 24 Apr 2008 04:34:55 +0100 1395269 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1389520&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F275134691%2F Great article in the UK's Sunday Times yesterday: Pump up those little grey cells, listing a variety of free or inexpensive brain health-related resources. We are honored (even honoured, I'd dare say) that they started the list with our complimentary Brain Fitness 101 e-Guide: - "The science behind some of the more outlandish claims for computer games that are supposed to improve your cognitive powers, is a matter of debate. However, you don’t need to pay £20 to give a game a try. The internet features a host of websites that can stretch your imagination and improve your mental prowess in a range of skills. Some are expensive rip-offs, but many are free, as our guide to the best of them shows." - "Begin by downloading the Brain Fitness 101 e-guide by Sharp Brains, availa... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1389520 Tue, 22 Apr 2008 04:19:05 +0100 1389520 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1367154&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F268131761%2F This study challenges the theory that depression and dementia are caused by another factor. It therefore adds weight to, but does not prove, the theory that depression is a risk factor for dementia. However, this study has shortcomings, and further research that is free of these should provide a clearer picture. Until more is known, depression sufferers should not be overly worried that they will develop dementia." Comment: I guess that last sentence offers good news...   aging brain, Alzheimers Association, Alzheimers Tests, baby boomers, Baycrest, Brain games, Brain Training, brain training game, Casual Games, Centre for Brain Fitness, cognitive ability, cognitive deficits, Cognitive tests, Depression and Alzheimers, executive skills, fit brains, High blood pressure, Humana, life... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1367154 Fri, 11 Apr 2008 17:37:51 +0100 1367154 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1365102&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F268131761%2F This study challenges the theory that depression and dementia are caused by another factor. It therefore adds weight to, but does not prove, the theory that depression is a risk factor for dementia. However, this study has shortcomings, and further research that is free of these should provide a clearer picture. Until more is known, depression sufferers should not be overly worried that they will develop dementia." Comment: I guess that last sentence offers good news...   aging brain, Alzheimers Association, Alzheimers Tests, baby boomers, Brain games, Brain Training, brain training game, Casual Games, cognitive ability, cognitive deficits, Cognitive tests, Depression and Alzheimers, executive skills, fit brains, High blood pressure, Humana, lifestyle, Medicaid, Medicare, memory cl... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1365102 Fri, 11 Apr 2008 04:31:36 +0100 1365102 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1356661&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F266362196%2F Ever wondered what explains the sometimes surreal, often misguided, health policies by our government? Well, it is beyond our humble brains to capture and articulate what may be going on...but we now see that lack of access to quality information is certainly not the main problem. Decision-making processes, and structural incentives, would probably merit more attention.... I mention this because we are really impressed by the just-published 24-page special issue on Preventing Memory Loss by Congressional Quarterly Researcher, one of the main publications in Capitol Hill. The publication is not free, but worth the price for anyone active professionally in the healthcare sector, or interested in learning about latest research and policy trends, from academics to students. You can buy ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1356661 Tue, 08 Apr 2008 15:09:17 +0100 1356661 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1341313&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F262128108%2F (Please remember you can subscribe, at the top of this page, to receive this complimentary bi-monthly newsletter by email).  We are proud to announce that we now belong to the exclusive Scientific American Partner Network. Scientific American Mind spoke highly of our website last year, so it was only natural (but made us very pleased) that we were invited to join their new blogger network. We remain an independent company, so there will be few obvious changes - mainly some more links between their website and ours and new banner ads administered by Scientific American's great team.  News Brain Fitness Software Report: Reviews:  our just released Market Report is earning a growing number of accolades as a must-read publication for executives and investors interested in emerging brain... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1341313 Tue, 01 Apr 2008 18:47:21 +0100 1341313 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1327752&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F258097784%2F An interesting recent article announcesPupils to start day with Nintendo Brain Training(UK's Daily Telegraph). Some quotes: - "Children at 16 primary schools are to start each day by playing on a Nintendo games console, it was disclosed yesterday." - "The pupils will play "brain training" exercises before lessons after a pilot scheme at a school in Dundee found that it boosted learning ability." - "Children at St Columba's Primary in the city scored higher in maths tests and had improved concentration and behaviour after playing the Nintendo game More Brain Training from Dr Kawashima, the study showed." - "LTS is working with school inspectors and Dundee University to carry out a larger pilot of the scheme, with 16 schools using the game every... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1327752 Wed, 26 Mar 2008 05:13:01 +0100 1327752 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1320618&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F255791637%2F This report is a must have for those in the brain health industry. Finally, an easy to use objective resource organizing the flurry of global brain health activities. The State of the Brain Fitness Software Market report not only tells the story of cognitive training and brain fitness, but provides a broad range of data allowing one to more swiftly navigate the current terrain and future landscape." -- Debra Raybold, Director, Brain Health Center, Memorial Hospital Health System, South Bend, Indiana. "This report is comprehensive to say the least. It provides an essential service for long term care organizations who want to provide mind-enhancing programs and services. There is a bewildering array of technology currently available. Few, if any, of us have the resources or experti... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1320618 Sat, 22 Mar 2008 00:42:19 +0100 1320618 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1304955&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=34954&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneurofeedback.blogharbor.com%2Fblog%2F_archives%2F2008%2F3%2F14%2F3578823.html Imagine yourself sitting back for a nonlinear neurofeedback session.... That means that your brain is going to have a "conversation" with itself (which I recently described in my newsletter, Not Just Neurofeedback, as the brain looking at itself in a mirror - let me know if you want to be on the list and have access to back copies like this). Your conscious mind doesn't really have anything specific to do in order to "make" something happen on purpose". In fact, the best thing you can do is to get out of the way. ;- ) But what does "get out of the way" mean, exactly? How do you "get out of the way"? (Source: Neurofeedback on the Brain) Neurofeedback on the Brain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1304955 Fri, 14 Mar 2008 20:51:04 +0100 1304955 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1253729&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F240718461%2F (Note: neurofeedback is a form of biofeedback that measures brain waves and that, according to practitioners, provides good "brain training" for specific clinical conditions). A few weeks ago Dr. David Rabiner wrote a great post on How Strong is the Research Support for Neurofeedback in Attention Deficits?, concluding that - "It is for these reasons that neurofeedback is understandably regarded as an unproven treatment approach for ADHD at this time by many ADHD researchers. - However, these studies do provide a solid basis for suggesting that if parents choose to pursue neurofeedback for their child, there is a reasonable chance that their child will benefit even though we can't be sure that it is the specific EEG training that is responsible for the benefits. Thus, althoug... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1253729 Mon, 25 Feb 2008 06:43:48 +0100 1253729 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1246765&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F238603070%2F Cognitive training (the basis for what we call "brain fitness" these days) has a wide array of applications. The most recent one, which is capturing public's imagination, monopolizing media coverage, and creating certain confusion, is Healthy Brain Aging. We are fortunate to have Dr. Joshua Steinerman, one of our new Expert Contributors, offer today his great voice to this conversation. Enjoy! --------------------------- Minding the Aging Brain -- By Joshua R. Steinerman, M.D. Scientists, philosophers, artists, and experts from all fields of human endeavor lament: it ain’t easy getting older. It? Do they refer to frailty and disability? To bodily disease? To life at its essence? It’s all in your head The mind is not set in stone, but it is encased by bone. It’s really all a... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1246765 Thu, 21 Feb 2008 06:07:29 +0100 1246765 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1237220&cid=t_153005_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F236169430%2F We presented SharpBrains' upcoming report, The State of the Brain Fitness Software Market 2008, on Tuesday Feb 12th at an event sponsored by the MIT Club of Northern California, the American Society on Aging, and SmartSilvers. Health & Wellness Stress and Neural Wreckage: Part of the Brain Plasticity Puzzle: an insightful article by one of our new Expert Contributors, Gregory Kellet-a researcher at UCSF- who provides context on how stress kills neurons. Closing the Circuit: Helen Mayberg's research could revolutionize depression treatment: accumulated chronic stress can build into depression over time. Thanks to our collaboration with Greater Good Magazine, Jill Suttie offers a fascinating overview of depression and a promising new treatment. Posit Science Brain Fitness Program 2.0... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1237220 Sat, 16 Feb 2008 19:10:34 +0100 1237220