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Neuroscience

How the mind emerges from the brain’s complex networks

How the mind emerges from the brain’s complex networks

Danielle Bassett of the School of Engineering and Applied Science co-authored an article about network neuroscience, which allows us to see the origins of mental activity in the brain. One day, they write, “a neuroscientist who knew all the principles of brain function and everything about someone’s brain could predict that person’s mental conditions—the future, as well as the past, would be present inside the person’s mind.”

One hour, one painting: A Barnes visit reveals clues about how the brain processes visual cues
A group of people, some sitting on a bench, some standing, looking at something offscreen, with paintings on yellow walls in the background.

Penn neuroscientist Zab Johnson (standing, second from right) led an exercise during which the mindCORE students studied a single painting for an hour. The idea, she explains, is to “slow down and really take a good look.”

One hour, one painting: A Barnes visit reveals clues about how the brain processes visual cues

The exercise is one part of a two-week mindCORE summer workshop aimed at underrepresented undergrads across the country. This year’s program focused on language science and technology, and minds in the world.

Michele W. Berger

Researchers detect brain differences between fast and slow learners
Abstract rendering of brain areas being activated by lighting up.

Researchers detect brain differences between fast and slow learners

In a new study, researchers at the School of Engineering and Applied Science look at how brain activation patterns might affect how long it takes for new information to really stick in the brain.

Penn Today Staff

Cognitive enhancers are considered largely acceptable at the workplace
Glass bowl of multi-colored gel caps

Cognitive enhancers are considered largely acceptable at the workplace

A new study from Penn Medicine neurologists finds the general public largely views the use of cognitive enhancers such as Adderall as an acceptable practice when used by adults in the workplace.

Penn Today Staff

The Inuit don't shout at their children – so why do we?

The Inuit don't shout at their children – so why do we?

Frances E. Jensen of the Perelman School of Medicine spoke about her research on the teenage brain and the benefits of parental empathy. “Teens will react more readily than an adult,” said Jensen. “If the reaction is anger it will come faster in a teenager and an act based on the anger could come faster too. They need to know they may trigger too quickly. But this is also why I say adults should give them what I call a ‘frontal lobe assist’.”

Looking beyond the disease to the person living with it
A man standing in front of a class of college students pointing to a scan of a brain.

A new course taught by PIK Professor Jay Gottfried (standing) has students leading discussions on cognitive neuroscience topics during one session, like the class shown here, then at the next, brings them face to face with people who have those or similar conditions.

Looking beyond the disease to the person living with it

In a new course taught by PIK Professor Jay Gottfried, students lead discussions on cognitive neuroscience topics and then meet patients who have relevant neurologic conditions.

Michele W. Berger