Archive for the ‘Improve Cognitive Functions’ Category

Neuroscience has changed considerably in the past 20 years. An example of change over period is the concept of brain plasticity. Brain plasticity refers to the brain’s ability to rewire itself, relocating information processing functions to different brain areas and/or neural networks. Two decades ago, it was believed that brain networks were static after its initial formation period. Now that belief has changed. The study of brain plasticity has profound implications in human learning and behaviour, and as such, for mental health.

To better understand this concept, let’s take a quick tour of the human brain, neural networks, and the plastic potential therein.

Brains, Neurons and Networks

The brain is a multilayered parallel structure in which billions of neurons are interconnected and exchange information through neural networks. In the brain, each neuron is connected to thousands of other neurons through synapses (specialised neuronal junctions). A connected neuron receives input from several other neurons, and when the input weight reaches a threshold value, the neuron propagates an electrical signal that stimulates output through the ignition of a neurotransmitter (input to another neuron).

This electrochemical exchange is the basis of brain cell communication. It is also the premise for the formation of neural networks. These networks are formed during early childhood and are responsible for particular brain tasks, such as learning, pattern recognition and problem-solving. It was believed that once neural networks were formed, they would remain ‘hard-wired’ or inflexible. However, research in the past two decades has indicated that this is not the reality: our neural networks are in fact adaptive, flexible and responsive to change.

Rewiring is the Key

So what does it really mean to have a plastic brain? It has many implications to human behaviour and learning patterns. Primarily, it defies the old adage that “an old dog cannot learn new tricks”. It is clear that with age, it becomes increasingly more difficult to learn new things. However, the brain’s ability to adapt to change perpetuates throughout an individual’s lifetime.

A prominent case of neuroplasticity happened with a patient who spent 19 years in a coma. Terry Wallis, a 19 year old man from Massachusetts (US), woke up after spending 19 years in a minimally conscious state. When scientists scanned his brain combining PET (Positron Emission Tomography) and DTI (Diffusion Tensor Imaging) technologies, they found evidence that Wallis’s brain had “developed new pathways and completely novel anatomical structures to re-establish functional connections, compensating for the brain pathways lost in the accident” (New Scientist, 03/07/2006).

Other cases, including stroke victims, people who have lost sensorial abilities (e.g. visually impaired) and individuals who have suffered cortical injuries show similar conclusions after researchers have investigated how they have recovered, or how the brain rewired itself to compensate for the damaged areas and lost functions. The process of rewiring occurs when new connections (synapses) between neurons are formed and, if they prove to be favourable, they are likely to become more permanent and stabilised. This process allows the brain circuitry to be malleable to changes, or in other words, to form ‘uncommon’ networks under particular conditions.

Learning and Plasticity

Brain plasticity is not restricted to unplanned circumstances, such as accidents, brain traumas and other critical instances that require rewiring to re-establish functional connections. Learning is also a major beneficiary of brain plasticity. Studies with musicians and athletes have shown that particular areas of the brain responsible for ‘fine’ or ’specific’ movements in certain parts of the body (e.g. the hands of a pianist or string musician) are in fact rewired for optimization. Once training becomes a routine, and particular movements are repeated over and over again, the tendency is that neuronal connections will become more permanent.

But there is more to it. Physical contact is not a requirement when it comes to rewiring. Repeated thinking can also trigger a series of reactions which result in brain rewiring. Scientists have investigated the formation of synapses as a result of ‘thinking about doing something’ and found that, from a neuronal perspective, thinking can be as useful as doing. This evidence led to an interesting fusion of interests between Buddhist meditation (through the Dalai Lama’s interest on the influence of the mind over the brain) and the scientific research on brain plasticity and the formation of neural networks. It seems that brain plasticity is a flexible topic as well as a flexible concept.

Mind Your Thoughts

Learning and plasticity took centre stage when collaborative research was conducted with lamas (Buddhist equivalent for priests or spiritual leaders). It seems that, as a result of ongoing meditation through a technique called Mindfulness (which aims to improve the person’s control and awareness of thoughts and emotions), the lamas were ‘more able’ to attain emotional balance and to concentrate.

Some of these studies include experiments performed by Dr. Kabat-Zinn (who taught mindfulness to workers in a high-pressure biotech business and concluded that stress levels were optimized over a short period of time) and Dr. Ekman’s tests involving emotional expression detections. “The mindfulness training focuses on learning to monitor the continuing sensations and thoughts more closely, both in sitting meditation and in activities like yoga exercises” (NY Times, 04/02/2003).

The benefits of meditation through brain rewiring, from a non-religious perspective, are becoming clearer and quite appealing. Currently, there are therapeutic techniques that mix mindfulness with other mainstream therapies such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy. These have proven particularly useful for cases of depression and anxiety, for example.

Stepping Into the Unknown

Brain plasticity has become a major topic of study. As modern scanning technologies enable scientists to observe the formation of synapses under particular stimuli, and experiment with living organisms, the applications of this knowledge are reaching a range of research fields. Some scientists have promoted the idea of using stimulation to improve learning, however, at a neurochemical level. Others like the idea of meditation and ‘wishful thinking’ to empower the process of learning and to optimize the performance of certain tasks.

This collaborative approach from representatives of a non-dogmatic religion such as Buddhism, cognitive researchers and neuroscientists seems to be opening an attractive scope on the concept of brain plasticity. How far will this go? Hard to say, but nevertheless: very interesting to mind.

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Pedro Gondim
http://www.articlesbase.com/science-articles/neuroscience-what-is-brain-plasticity-139878.html

Of all the factors essential to reach achievement in telemarketing the essential one is doubtlessly communicating. Doing work inside a concern which provides a high stage of intrinsic backup will invariably improve customer function from the limits of the norm. In a few words, how can this be attained?

Firstly, build up a supportive, centered work surrounding — It is crucial to have a clean-cut, accessible mission statement. What do you want the office to accomplish? What is the outstanding aim of your telesales business? Who are your customers, what functions does your call centre supply? The calibre of these functions is central to your mission statement. Clear company aims must be be readily available. Make sure every member of members of members of staff comprehends them. Include a program around how your personnel will be treated too. Render a encouraging, capable work surround and honest-to-goodness effects will much more likely come after.

Communication, communication, communication – this, as you might be able to acertain, can’t be stated enough. We all acknowledge we should talk with our customers – only without your employees there is no route to these clients. Communicate on a regular basis with your telemarketers. Be sure your telemarketers have a full and thorough knowledge of a product or function they are representing. Not simply does this provide clients the most current, correct data, but it evolves a feel of empowerment and comprehension amongst your teleselling staff. Let in both formal communications, like memos and inspections, and free-and-easy communications, such as electronic mail and notice boards.

Communicate in a assured fashion that sustains the teleselling company’s mission and vision. Many teleselling enterprises fall into the trap of applying negative sells to endeavour and persuade people to select the required action, whether that be have an appointment or buy an article. Concentrate on conducting your training progam, to always make your telemarking employees to phrase things from the negative to the affirmative, as in: we can’t reduce your interest rate, but we can trim your yearly charge. This positive reinforcing stimulus will have a quite surprising outcome on not only your clients but also your telemarketing staff.

Finally, your management organisation should be uncomplicated. Try asking for your workers engagement in planning and conducting the teleselling business. A obscure management structure results in scrambled and collapsed communication. Raise members of staff thoughts and propositions and how about producing an employee committee. Traninees will be a lot more productive and open to variety when they are a part of the cognitive process. Even whenever not used, acknowledge their thoughts. By establishing the telemarketing members of members of staff part of the process, you ensure that they will accept ownership and perform a lot more easily.

For your telecommerce concern to thrive you need consistent communication and a defined, well supported mission statement. Mustering a supportive environment and involving employees are indispensable to a telemarketing commercial enterprise success.

John Cole
http://www.articlesbase.com/outsourcing-articles/maximise-your-bottom-line-in-telesales-720463.html

Brain science has been one of the central topics in the scientific world in the last decade. The development of several new technologies has allowed scientists to reach a superior level in research methods.

Such technologies – particularly brain scanning techniques (PET, fMRI, CT, etc.) – have enabled experts to perform procedures which were thought to be in the realm of science fiction in a near past. In the verge of an advanced era in the perception and manipulation of the human mind, an ethical discussion was raised in the Old continent.

Meeting the ‘Meeting of Minds’

“Meeting of Minds – European Citizens’ Deliberation on Brain Science, was a unique exercise involving the general public in a discussion on cutting-edge science. Citizens from nine European countries will suggest what they think should be done with our new-found knowledge of the brain. They will debate the ethical, social and legal implications with international experts. The citizens’ conclusions on the use of new technology, medicines and techniques will be offered to policy-makers at the European, national and transnational level.” (www.meetingmindseurope.org)

Breaking through Brain Research

The outcome of the meeting of minds was one of the most elaborate displays of democratic decision-making in history. 126 citizens, 9 countries, 12 organisations and another dozens of professionals from several areas: resulting in over 100 recommendations that are being analysed by stakeholders in the fields of brain research and politics. The meeting’s organisation committee recognised several ‘new’ areas in brain research which are becoming increasingly relevant in our daily lives, and designed most recommendations based on probable outcomes from these areas.

Brain Stimulation

The initiative to solve psychiatric problems derived from common mental health disorders, such as OCD, has provided the background for neuro-surgeons to endeavour in “tinkering at people’s brains”. Innovative procedures, such as the insertion of electrodes that emit mild currents to communicate with the patient via a wireless system, are part of this area. Issues? The definition of normality: how are medical treatments going to affect different social groups and who should, and should not, be treated.

Brain Scanning Technologies

Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) has been used to identify patterns of cognitive behaviour in the human brain. Scientists have attempted to use it for lie detection and even to recognise which areas of the brain are being used when a stimuli is provided. Scientists have even attempted to scan several different people in order to define a ‘normal’ brain structure. Issues? Privacy and a patient’s right to refuse treatment are the major concerns which result from this type of research.

Regulatory Drugs

Several drugs have been developed to treat patients with brain disorders, such as compliance and conduct disorders. The ability to provide a ‘quick fix’ to particular behaviours has induced research in this area. Issues? Again the definition of normality: there is a concern on whether some conditions are in fact disorders that should be treated. With further development of research, such drugs could be used for social control.

Cognitive Enhancers

In the last decade cognitive enhancers have been a central topic of discussion in brain research. Drugs which improve memory, alertness and other cognitive functions have been developed, and drug companies are prepared to market them to the general public. Issues? There are several concerns about the non-regulation of such drugs, which could become a quick fix for ‘mental problems’. This culture would play a role in decreasing the importance of preventive treatment.

Genetic Profiling

Increased research in the brain’s structure and functioning is giving scientists the opportunity to relate the genetic structure of individual’s with the possible development of particular brain conditions. Such procedure could allow the recognition of pattern which would predict the incidence of mental health diseases prior to the actual development of the disease. Issues? The burden of knowing the future for an individual that is likely to develop a mental health disease.

Themes and Final Recommendations

The project’s meeting on January produced more than 100 recommendations in six different areas of brain research. Following are some of them:

Regulation and Control

- Increase the transparency of public funding allocation mechanisms and its links to solving social issues.

- Extend the reach of ethical oversight to non-experimental research.

- Prevent the misuse of human beings for experimental research.

- Make disclosure of privately-funded brain research activities into a legal requirement.

- Increase transparency of ongoing research to align public funding.

- Increase public funding for fundamental research.

- Minimise bureaucratic barriers to encourage collaborative research.

- Strengthen legal regimes on discrimination against persons with mental conditions, particularly in their workplaces.

Normalcy versus Diversity

- Foster greater inter-disciplinary knowledge to improve thinking about norms

- Take into consideration that diversity is “normal” and positive for the development of society, the arts and science.

- Counteract a “social pressure” for medical treatment.

- Do not treat patients if they do not wish it.

- Offer a broad range of treatment options and support, provide alternatives to medical treatment and complementary medicine or combine various approaches.

- Put more emphasis on prevention.

- Reinforce communication between patients and specialists in charge.

- Reallocate resources in favour of basic research.

- Give high priority to brain research.

- Ensure that the increased knowledge that brain science provides is also applied in other fields such as teaching, learning, thinking, and creativity.

- Do not allow enhancing drugs for people who have to pass exams.

- Definitions should be flexible as society moves on.

Public Information and Communication

- Promote broadcasting of scientific documentaries during viewer-friendly hours.

- Start a “Brainpedia” similar to the general Wikipedia encyclopedia in the internet.

- Mobilize medical students and create opportunities for them to go public in order to enter a permanent discussion with practitioners, organizations, and citizens.

- Keep the medical press independent of pharmaceutical industries.

- Promote the information flow between experts.

- Encourage a more interdisciplinary approach.

- Introduce or improve communicative skills in the education for medical doctors in order to improve the doctor-patient relationship and the quality of information.

- Establish more direct information links between experts and patients. Scientists should be discouraged to publish immediately every new development in research in popular media.

Pressure from Economic Interests

- Introduce incentives for pharmaceutical companies to conduct fundamental research.

- Initiate foundations that support patients with rare diseases.

- Foster independent information about drugs that are positioned as consumer products.

- Keep the ban on advertising for prescription drugs.

- Require that sources of financing are listed with every academic contribution.

Equal Access to Treatment

- Make efforts to ensure equal access regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, economic capacity and social status.

- Make sure that people are well informed about treatments and non-medical alternatives in order to avoid exclusion from services.

- Extend the understanding of necessary treatment to prevention and create respective institutions and programs.

- Incorporate citizens and patients’ organizations in decision making on allocation of resources.

- Target mental health care to particular groups (elderly, ethnical groups, socially weak groups…) to increase efficiency.

Freedom of Choice

- Create interdisciplinary support teams for patients and their families.

- Improve the geographical distribution of diagnosis and treatment units for patients and their families.

- Set up a multidisciplinary group to define “unbearable psychological suffering”. The established criteria should serve as a foundation for laws on euthanasia independent of public opinion, one group emphasized.

- Guarantee equal access to treatment as a self-evident precondition for choice.

- Carefully prioritise public funds. Conduct a clear information policy on the costs of prophylactic measures, check-ups, and treatments.

- Don’t streamline research along political, financial or materialistic deliberations but keep it open in all scientifically relevant directions (blue sky research).

The Next Steps

“Since January 2006 the partner organisations have launched different types of initiatives at both national and European level to disseminate results and provide policy advice to relevant stakeholders and policy makers. Such initiatives include presentations in relevant fora such as national parliaments and scientific conferences, and the organisation of policy advice workshops. Willing citizens can play a key role during these events.” (www.meetingmindseurope.org).

Will the international efforts to overlook brain research work? The process is on its way, and time will tell. If the implementation of the several proposed recommendations is effective through the political, medical and social layers of participant EU countries – it may be time to consider how scalable this project could be.

As the knowledge of brain functioning and particular interactions between neural networks is increasingly expanding, a discussion could arise from the very heart of mental health: how much impact can brain research provoke in the several mental health disciplines? Will learning paradigms shift – or will brain research support contemporary theories? The blueprints of a new era are under development – and the next steps will be promising.

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Pedro Gondim
http://www.articlesbase.com/psychology-articles/brain-research-blueprints-of-a-new-era-139845.html

My friend took it and said it actually works, but my sister on the other hand said it made her heart beat faster. What is the probability of side effects?

I take ginko, not for memory enhancement, but for better circulation. Thus far, I have not noticed any change in cognitive function, and have also heard that there are side effects in some people from gingko. I only take it every other day. Since it is a blood thinner, it should not be taken with aspirin, heparin or similar substances.

I’ve heard about legal, non-prescription drugs and diet supplements that can improve memory, cognitive function, concentration, and quick thinking. What would you recommend based on your medical knowledge and/or experience with such substances?

Do not listen to ghost. DXM is a illegal drug when abused as such. It can also turn up in drug screens, but I think only as alcohol. Also, it makes you feel drunk, can make you hallucinate, and if your body can’t handle it (it’s VERY strong, think drinking whiskeyX2) you will vomit. It will feel like your vomiting forever. You will not be able to function. It’s the closest thing to death I’ve ever experienced.