#BrainScience

[pranathisoftwareservices]

The key to #artificialintelligence has always been the representation."" — #JeffHawkins, Representation is at the heart of AI’s ability to think, learn, and evolve like humans.

This powerful quote reminds us that #AI isn’t just about #algorithms or #computations. It’s about how we represent information and structure our thinking.

How do you think #AIrepresentation will shape the future of technology? Let’s discuss: https://www.pranathiss.com 👉📧 info@pranathiss.com 👉📲 +1 732 333 3037

[anthonynysa]

Is Free Will an Illusion? A Day in the Life of Your Decisions.

A Choice: Morning Snooze

Alarm goes off, you are still half asleep, and you stretch your right hand out to reach the little button marked "Snooze." Did you do that based on your decision, or did your brain respond on autopilot by now, conditioned by excessive sleep deprivation? Neuroscientists will argue that the brain made that call something like milliseconds before consciousness kicks in. So, was it you who actually decided, or did your brain go into action because the situation called for it?

The next in line is the choice of breakfast. You stand in front of your fridge, staring at it, and caught up in thought about the meal between eggs and cereals. You choose cereals. On what basis? Probably because you saw a commercial for it last night. Or probably because your body is craving some sugar after long fasting. Or keys to choices, even if unaccepted, could already be chosen on your behalf by previous experiences and biological programming.

Commute: Driving or Your Instincts?

It is very likely that you don’t think of every little thing: pressing the gas, switching lanes, stopping at a red light. For the most part, your brain relatively runs your commute by remote, with defenses lowered. After taking the same route every day, your body seems to just know where to go. Is that really free will, or rather is it just you executing pre-programmed behaviors, like a sophisticated biological GPS?

Let’s take it further: suddenly, you decide to take a different route. Aha! That was free will. But—wait!—was it? What if your brain already calculated that the other route would probably be preferred based on past experiences of being stuck by traffic patterns or subconscious stress levels? Maybe just “randomly” picking that route was a less random choice than it originally appeared. 

Midday: The Illusion of Choices

As you come towards lunchtime, and you begin to browse a menu, so many options! You feel like you are in control-no doubt, you get to choose what to eat. Let's take this apart:

Your upbringing has influenced your preferences, your past meals, and what type of culture exposure you had as well as from whom you receive the meal.

Such cravings of your body are ruled by biological factors such as blood sugar levels and hormones.

Though there could be marketing influencing your decision-you may have seen a burger being advertised earlier and now you are leaning toward it, unknowingly.

Insofar as free will is a summing up of past experiences, biological needs, and external nudgings, how free truly are your choices?

Afternoon: Can You Will Yourself to Work Harder?

You sit at your desk, trying to concentrate. You tell yourself-I will be productive by my choice. But do you truly? Studies suggest our ability to focus is governed by neurotransmitters, brain structure, and even how little sleep we got last night. On some days, no matter how much we will ourselves to concentrate, our brains just can't comply.

Even decisions to move towards motivation are suspect: Did you choose to be motivated today, or were you happening to be on the right side of the dopamine and serotonin balance? If you had gotten less sleep or a different genetic predisposition, would you even be able to join work, have concentration, and work? 

The Night: Interaction and Subconscious Scripts

You are with friends after work. Every interaction, every joke told, every opinion given- these are conscious choices, aren't they? Or do they come from experience, social conditioning, and subtle cues of body language developed over decades by other people?

Oh, you laughed at a friend's joke. Was that a conscious choice? Or was your brain lining up all possible social cues and producing the right answer? Deeper still-were you free to decide what kind of sense of humor you liked, or was it influenced by the environment you grew up in?

Night: Do You Decide to Overthink?

As you're lying in bed, you're having multiple thoughts racing through your mind. You'll play scenes from the day, analyze conversations, plan for tomorrow-even think about whether you made "the right" choices throughout the day.

But if each decision were merely an automatic response to the past chemistry of your brain, subconscious biases, and environmental triggers, was there ever a "right" decision? Or were you just along for the ride? 

So, Is Free Will an Illusion?

Come on, who hasn't debated about that before? For centuries, this has been a subject of deliberation among philosophers. Neuroscientists are now saying that many decisions we make may occur before we become fully conscious of their existence. Determinists hold that everything we do is the set of dominoes set in motion by a preceding cause, so free will doesn't really exist at all. But far from being the correct opinion, there are some philosophers who believe that as long as one feels they have free will, their choices being tainted by biological and past effects is no sin.

So, what to take from this? Perhaps free will is an illusion. Perhaps we are only the sum of experiences, subconscious programming, and biological forces. But so what? If life were to illusion us into feeling we do have choices, maybe that's the punchline.

Come on, when your alarm rings tomorrow morning, is it or is it not a possibility you won't hit snooze? 

[think4knowledge]

The Pineal Gland: Exploring Its Hidden Power and Mystical Role

In this video, we dive deep into the fascinating world of the pineal gland, often referred to as the "third eye." We explore its mysterious functions, its role in regulating our sleep cycles, and how it may be linked to higher states of consciousness. Learn about the pineal gland's mystical significance in various spiritual traditions and how modern science is beginning to uncover its hidden power. Join us on a journey to unlock the secrets of this small but mighty part of the brain and discover why it's been revered throughout history. . . YouTube Shorts Link : https://www.youtube.com/shorts/1f37gJlw6so

[usascripthelpersofficial]

🧠✨ Ever wondered what it's like to see sounds or taste colors? Discover the fascinating world of synesthesia! 🌈 This unique condition, often hereditary, involves increased brain connectivity and can lead to enhanced memory and strong emotional responses. #Synesthesia #BrainScience #UniquePerception #usascripthelpers

[drpreetityagilecturers]

The Best Physiology Faculty in India: Dr. Preeti Tyagi's Lecturers

The Best Physiology Faculty in India: Dr. Preeti Tyagi's Lecturers

Are you embarking on the challenging journey of MBBS or preparing for NEET-PG and seeking the best resources to master physiology? Look no further than Dr. Preeti Tyagi's YouTube channel, where a treasure trove of in-depth and comprehensive physiology lectures awaits. Best Physiology faculty in india.

In the competitive landscape of medical education, having access to high-quality resources is essential. Dr. Preeti Tyagi stands out as one of the best physiology faculty in India, offering unparalleled expertise and a clear teaching style that resonates with medical students across the country.

What sets Dr. Tyagi's lectures apart is their meticulous design, catering to the needs of learners at every level of understanding. Whether you're grappling with fundamental concepts or delving into advanced topics, her lectures provide a solid foundation that is indispensable for medical students, particularly those in their first year of MBBS.

With a focus on clarity and depth, Dr. Tyagi covers essential physiology topics with precision and clarity. Her lectures are not just informative but also engaging, making complex concepts easier to grasp and retain. By subscribing to her YouTube channel, you gain access to a wealth of knowledge that is crucial for your medical education journey.

For MBBS undergraduates, Dr. Tyagi's lectures serve as the perfect companion, offering a comprehensive understanding of physiology that complements traditional classroom learning. Likewise, for those preparing for the NEET-PG exam, her online lectures provide invaluable insights and preparation strategies to excel in the competitive medical entrance exams. Best Physiology faculty in india.

Dr. Preeti Tyagi's YouTube channel has garnered praise from students nationwide for its effectiveness in simplifying complex physiological concepts and its role in shaping successful medical careers. Her dedication to excellence and passion for teaching shine through in every lecture, making her a revered figure among aspiring doctors. Best Medical Physiology Lectures for MBBS 1st year.

In conclusion If you're searching for the best physiology faculty in India, look no further than Dr. Preeti Tyagi's YouTube channel. With her exceptional teaching skills and comprehensive lecture series, she offers the best online physiology lectures for MBBS and NEET-PG preparation, ensuring that every medical student has access to top-notch educational resources. Subscribe today and take the first step towards mastering physiology and achieving your medical career goals.

Visit Us: https://turningbrain.in/

[dominaexmachina]

Why the “Under 25” rule? It’s biological — not ageism

Brain development doesn’t end in your teens

Research shows that the prefrontal cortex — responsible for

impulse control,

long-term planning,

logical reasoning

— continues maturing well into the mid-twenties. Studies using neuroimaging and behavioral tests consistently note that full executive function (e.g., inhibiting impulsive behavior, organizing tasks, and controlling emotions) isn’t reliably established until around age 25.

Why does that matter for meaningful conversations?

Before this final stage of prefrontal development, people are naturally more susceptible to

strong emotional reactions,

less able to process complex, nuanced arguments.

That can lead to fiery, less constructive debates — rather than balanced, thoughtful discourse.

Bottom Line

The “Under 25” guideline is rooted in well-documented brain science — it’s a checkpoint for cognitive maturity, not a judgment on anyone’s value. The research is clear:

Executive functions (planning, inhibition, organization) climb well into the twenties.

Prefrontal control over emotions also matures later, meaning younger brains are wired for less regulated responses.

References

Luna et al., “Maturation of cognitive processes from late childhood to adulthood.” Child Development — charts executive function development across ages (1, 2, 3).

Laurence Steinberg, “Teenage rebellion” (Temple University) — documents prefrontal maturation continuing into mid‑twenties (1, 2, 3).

[trendsnova]

6 Strange but True Ways Introvert Brains See the World Differently

Why Introverts Appear "Off" to the World (But Aren't) Ever feel utterly depleted after a mere conversation? Or spend an entire day replaying something you blurted out nonchalantly last week? Perhaps you long for silence the way extroverts long for stimulation. If that's the case, you're not dysfunctional — you're introverted.

Whereas extroverts live on external energy, introverts operate on internal processing. It's an entirely different operating system. And that distinction is usually mistaken for being shy, awkward, or antisocial. In truth, the introverted brain just navigates the world in quieter — and odder — manners.

Let's break down six surprisingly weird ways the introvert brain functions that most people fail to notice.

Your Brain Is Already Loud — That's Why You Crave Quiet Introverts carry on a silent running monologue. Their inner voice isn't just commenting on life — it's examining, questioning, musing, practicing. That's why external noise is like an all-out attack.

So when you catch an introvert skipping parties or wearing noise-canceling headphones to work, they're not being inconsiderate. They're simply dealing with a brain that's already operating at high levels.

You Take More Time to Process — But You Go Broader Introverts aren't slow — they're deep. Rather than responding quickly, they sort through context, emotions, memory, and meaning before speaking or acting. This may appear as hesitation or coldness, but actually, it's depth in action.

That's why introverts will usually come up with the perfect response… two hours after it's no longer needed. Their brains are reflection-oriented, not reaction-oriented.

Social Energy Is a Battery — and Yours Runs Down Quickly Extroverts recharge from social interaction; introverts expend it. That's not figurative language — that's physiology. Research indicates introvert brains are wired to respond to dopamine, the brain chemical associated with rewards, in a different way.

Thus while chit-chat and soirees may rev someone else up, they drain an introvert, not out of shyness — but because their neurological systems work at stimulation differently.

You Listen More Than You Talk Introverts are listeners by nature. They notice body language, changes of tone, and small discrepancies others don't catch. They're excellent at reading between the lines and seeing things coming before others do.

But it also makes them prone to being overstimulated by settings where too much is going on. Their antennae are perpetually twitching, and that makes rest and alone time necessary, not niceties.

Alone Time Isn’t Isolation — It’s Maintenance For an introvert, alone time is like sleep: non-negotiable. It’s not about escaping people. It’s about re-centering, recharging, and returning to their natural rhythm.

Introverts don’t hate connection — they just value intentional, meaningful interactions over constant social presence.

You’re Not “Too Sensitive” — You’re Highly Tuned Introverts often get accused of being overly sensitive. In truth, they just process things more emotionally and neurologically. They feel more. That sensitivity helps them pick up on nuance, empathy, and meaning others overlook.

But it also makes them more vulnerable to overload — which is why boundaries, quiet, and alone time aren’t selfish. They’re survival strategies.

Final Thoughts: You’re Wired for Depth, Not Volume Introverts are not broken extroverts. They are designed for reflection, imagination, and deep inner lives. In a culture that values loudness and velocity, introversion can sometimes seem to be a liability — but it is not. It is simply a different — and strong — way of navigating life.

So if the world feels a little too fast, too noisy, or too shallow — maybe it’s not you. Maybe you’re just deep in a world that’s wide.

[rageof-gaia]

{VIRTUAL PSYCHOSIS}

{VIRTUAL PSYCHOSIS}-IS THE addiction & over consumption of Ai|Technology that can lead to severe brain damage of Prefrontal Cortex Amygdala' & Limbic system

[joelekm]

Mystical Experiences Through Orgasmic Meditation with Dr. Andrew Newberg | Journey into the Mystic

Rachel is joined by Dr. Andrew Newberg, one of the world’s leading neuroscientists, to explore how practices like Orgasmic Meditation (OM) can unlock mystical states of oneness, clarity, and surrender. With insights from his latest book 'Sex, God, and the Brain', Dr. Newberg sheds light on how the brain processes mystical states, the role of the parietal lobe, and why sexuality has a unique power to connect us to higher consciousness.

[bethanymedicalclinic]

Understanding Dopamine: Its Role in Mental Health and Well-being

Explore the importance of dopamine in the brain, its effects on mood, motivation, and behavior. Learn how dopamine influences mental health, addiction, and overall well-being.

[izifacts]

Why we Humans make mistakes?

Humans make mistakes due to a combination of biological limits, cognitive shortcuts, emotional interference, and external factors like stress or distractions. But mistakes are also essential for learning and adapting — the brain often learns best by identifying and correcting errors.

[jkscareeradvisor]

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[stevamags]

Want Better Focus? Try These Science-Backed Methods for Maximum Results

This is a quick insight from the article How to Improve Focus Scientifically Originally published March 14, 2025

You sit down to work. You’re ready. Determined. Focused. Ding! Your phone buzzes. Now, you’re scrolling memes for 30 minutes.

Focus? Gone. If you’re tired of feeling like a goldfish with a WiFi connection, here’s how to improve focus scientifically (with actual research to back it up).

1. Sleep As Your Brain Depends on It (Because It Does)

Less than 6 hours? Your brain’s processing power drops by 50%. Treat sleep like a phone battery. No charge = No function.

Stick to a sleep schedule. Even on weekends.

Block blue light before bed. (Yes, that means no doom scrolling.)

Keep your room cool and dark. Your brain sleeps best in cave mode.

2. Eat Like a Genius

Harvard researchers found high sugar diets tank brain function. Instead, fuel up on:

Eggs & salmon (Omega 3s for brain power)

Blueberries (Antioxidants that keep neurons happy)

Nuts & dark chocolate (Healthy fats = Happy brain)

Junk food = brain fog. Choose wisely.

3. Move Your Body, Boost Your Focus

Sitting all day makes your brain slow. Just 20 minutes of exercise boosts focus by 50%.

Walk, stretch, dance, anything works.

Strength training improves cognitive function. Yes, lifting = smarter brain.

4. Hydrate or Diedrate

Even 1% dehydration reduces focus. Your brain is 75% water, keep it topped up.

Drink a glass of water first thing in the morning.

Keep a water bottle nearby as a visual reminder.

5. Stop Multitasking. Seriously.

Multitasking lowers productivity by 40%. Your brain can only focus on one thing at a time.

Close unnecessary tabs. (Yes, even that shopping cart.)

Set work blocks and tackle one task at a time.

6. Try the Pomodoro Technique

Work 25 minutes, break 5 minutes. Repeat.

Science says focused sprints increase productivity by 60%. Your brain loves bitesize effort.

7. Cut the Noise (Literally)

Background noise messes with cognition. Cornell University found it raises stress and reduces focus.

Noise Canceling headphones = lifesaver.

White noise or instrumental music helps keep distractions out.

8. Stop Checking Your Phone Every 3 Minutes

The average person checks their phone 96 times a day. That’s every 10 minutes.

Use website blockers like Freedom.

Set specific times to check notifications.

9. Use Visual Cues for Instant Motivation

Your brain processes images 60,000x faster than text. Try:

Sticky notes with reminders.

A visual to-do list (whiteboards work wonders).

10. Try Meditation (Even for 5 Minutes)

Harvard researchers found meditation thickens the prefrontal cortex, the part responsible for focus.

Just 5–10 minutes a day can improve concentration.

Use guided apps like Headspace or Calm.

11. Body Doubling: The ADHD Hack That Works

Work better when someone’s nearby? It’s real. Studies show we focus more when someone else is present.

Work in a library or coworking space.

Use online focus groups (Study With Me streams work too).

12. Avoid the Afternoon Food Coma

Big, carb-heavy meals = brain nap mode.

Stick to protein and healthy fats at lunch.

Avoid heavy pasta, burgers, or sugary snacks.

13. Decision Fatigue is Real, Limit Your Choices

Your brain only makes so many good choices a day before it quits.

Plan meals in advance.

Wear a simple outfit routine (Mark Zuckerbergstyle).

14. The 5-Second Rule: Trick Your Brain into Action

Count 54321 and just start. This interrupts hesitation and forces movement. (It actually works.)

15. Prioritize Sleep, Food, and Movement, Your Focus Will Follow

Brains need fuel. Give it good sleep, good food, and movement, and watch your focus skyrocket.

Conclusion: Train Your Brain, Boost Your Focus 🚀

Focus isn’t magic, it’s a skill. Prioritize sleep, fuel your brain, move your body, and cut distractions. Small, science-backed habits lead to massive productivity gains. Start with one tip today, and watch your focus improve. Do you have a favorite hack? Drop it in the comments! 🔥

[coachnvaya]

⏳ Manage Yourself as per Time! ⏳ Stay productive with time-blocking 🗓️ & the Pomodoro technique ⏳ to beat procrastination! 🚀💪

[drblied]

Stimulants and Brain Development in Children with ADHD

A recent study published in Neuropsychopharmacology explores how stimulant medications affect brain development in children with ADHD, highlighting how these treatments may help normalize brain regions linked to ADHD symptoms.

This study is explored in depth in Stimulant Medication Normalizes Brain Structures in Children with ADHD: New Study by Carly Broadway, published by ADDitude Magazine, which informed this newsletter.

Key Findings

Children who were not on medication showed reduced cortical thickness in the insula (a brain region involved in prioritizing information) and less grey matter in the nucleus accumbens (linked to motivation and reward).

In contrast, children who were taking stimulant medications had brain structures more similar to neurotypical children, suggesting that medication may play a role in normalizing some areas of the brain, improving the symptoms of ADHD.

While stimulant medications were found to positively impact certain brain regions, areas like the caudate (involved in motor control) and the amygdala (involved in emotional processing) remained unchanged, which aligns with previous studies. Additionally, non-stimulant medication did not have a notable impact on brain structure.

Stimulants are widely used as the first-line treatment for ADHD, although some individuals may stop using them due to side effects like reduced appetite, sleep disturbances, and mood changes. This study suggests that while stimulant medications can help normalize brain structure, their effects may vary across different regions of the brain. These findings may pave the way for more personalized treatment approaches, helping to improve both symptom management and treatment adherence.

As a cross-sectional study, this research doesn’t establish cause and effect. Additionally, there was limited information on the dosage and duration of medication use, highlighting the need for future studies that track the long-term effects of stimulant medications in greater detail.

I provide formal assessments for ADHD and Autism for individuals ages 8-48 in California, both in-person and online (my online assessment option is for ages 18+). For more information, and to check your PPO insurance reimbursement benefits with the Mentaya tool, please visit my website.

I also encourage you to explore these tools to promote your well-being:

Empowerment Through Understanding Modules: Dive deeper into ADHD and Autism with this online course to improve self-awareness, self-advocacy, and personal growth. Learn more here.

AuDHD Strong App: A helpful app for neurodivergent individuals with tools for organization, task management, and self-care. Download it today from the App Store or the Google Play Store!

Faces of Health App: This app offers valuable mental health and well-being resources. Download it today from the App Store or the Google Play Store!

For more valuable insights, I encourage you to explore my blog at https://drblied.com/blog/. For a selection of wellness resources, please visit the resources page on my website at https://drblied.com/resources/.

Reference

Broadway, C. (2024). Stimulant medication normalizes brain structures in children with ADHD: New study. ADDitude Magazine. https://www.additudemag.com/stimulant-meds-adhd-brain-development-study/?ecd=wnl_additude_250105_cons_adhd_pro&goal=0_a767e6fc3c-4922c6793e-301887718

[u888go]

The Allure of Risk: How the Human Brain Processes Uncertainty

Risk is a fundamental part of life. Whether it's skydiving, investing in stocks, or launching a startup, humans have a curious relationship with uncertainty. Some embrace it, chasing adrenaline-fueled experiences, while others carefully calculate their risks. But why does risk have such a powerful hold over us? The answer lies in the way our brain processes uncertainty and reward.

The science behind risk-taking

At the core of our risk-taking behavior is the brain’s reward system, primarily driven by dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and motivation. When we take a risk and succeed, our brain releases dopamine, creating a sense of excitement and reinforcement that pushes us to seek out similar experiences in the future.

Psychologists and neuroscientists believe that risk-taking activates the ventral striatum, a key area of the brain involved in processing rewards. Interestingly, this system responds not just to actual rewards but to potential rewards—meaning the anticipation of winning or succeeding is often just as thrilling as the outcome itself.

This is why gambling, extreme sports, and high-stakes investments can be so addictive. The brain craves uncertainty because the possibility of a big win triggers the reward system, even if the odds are against us.

Why do some people crave risk more than others?

Not everyone enjoys taking risks, and the difference comes down to a mix of genetics, personality, and life experiences. Research suggests that some people have a naturally lower baseline of dopamine activity, making them more likely to seek external stimulation to feel excitement. These are the thrill-seekers—the entrepreneurs who pour their savings into a startup, the investors who bet big on high-risk stocks, and the adventure junkies who push physical limits.

On the other hand, people with higher baseline dopamine levels may be naturally content and less inclined to chase risk for excitement. Their decision-making process tends to be more cautious, prioritizing stability over thrill-seeking.

Personality traits also play a role. Those with high levels of openness to experience (a trait in the Big Five personality model) tend to be more experimental and comfortable with uncertainty. Meanwhile, people high in conscientiousness may be more risk-averse, preferring careful planning and stability.

Risk-taking in different industries

Risk is not exclusive to casino games or extreme sports. In fact, some of the world’s most successful industries thrive on managing uncertainty.

1. Investing and the stock market

The financial world is built on risk and reward. Every investment, from stocks to cryptocurrencies, carries some level of uncertainty. The stock market operates on the principle of calculated risk, where investors weigh potential losses against potential gains.

However, financial markets also trigger some of the same psychological biases found in gambling. For instance, loss aversion—a cognitive bias where people fear losses more than they enjoy gains—can lead investors to hold onto bad stocks for too long or panic-sell during downturns.

2. Entrepreneurship and startups

Starting a business is one of the biggest risks a person can take. Entrepreneurs often leave stable jobs, invest their savings, and commit years of effort without any guarantee of success. Yet, those who take the leap often cite the thrill of the challenge and the potential for big rewards as key motivators.

Research shows that successful entrepreneurs often have a high tolerance for risk, but they also know how to manage it. Unlike gamblers, who rely on luck, entrepreneurs strategize, adapt, and learn from failures, making their risk-taking more controlled.

3. Extreme sports and adventure activities

From rock climbing to base jumping, extreme sports attract people who thrive on risk. But what separates these athletes from reckless thrill-seekers is calculated risk assessment. They train rigorously, plan their moves, and develop contingency strategies to minimize danger.

In many ways, this mirrors high-stakes investing or business ventures—where preparation and knowledge significantly influence the outcome.

The fine line between good risk and reckless risk

While risk can be exciting and rewarding, not all risks are worth taking. The key difference between a smart risk and a reckless risk is informed decision-making.

A smart risk involves: ✅ Research and preparation ✅ Understanding probabilities and potential outcomes ✅ Accepting losses as part of the process ✅ Learning from past experiences

On the other hand, a reckless risk is driven by: ❌ Impulsiveness and emotional decision-making ❌ Ignoring warning signs or expert advice ❌ Risking more than you can afford to lose ❌ Chasing losses out of frustration

Final thoughts: Is risk worth it?

Risk is an inescapable part of life. It fuels innovation, drives economic growth, and makes life exciting. However, not all risks are equal. The key to navigating uncertainty is knowing when to take the leap and when to step back.

By understanding how the brain processes risk and reward, we can make better decisions—whether in investing, business, or personal life. The thrill of uncertainty may always be enticing, but the real power lies in mastering it.