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Random noise can boost visual perception
In a nutshell: Although it may seem counterintuitive, our perception of low-contrast images can be improved by adding noise to the images themselves or directly to the brain. Read more
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What you pay attention to depends on your goal
In a nutshell: Attention is allocated differently to objects depending on what kind of goal they are relevant to. Read more
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Understanding SK1, a channel protein that doesn’t act like a channel protein
In a nutshell: Researchers have discovered the role of a protein in rat brain cells that does not behave as expected. Read more
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Individual responses to brain stimulation are related to two brain features
In a nutshell: Two studies reveal that the differences in how people react to transcranial direct current stimulation are related to neurochemical concentrations and brain structure. Read more
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Why complex cells behave like simple cells
In a nutshell: A switch in how some brain cells respond to visual scenes is caused by changes in the whole network, rather than in the cells themselves. Read more
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Paying attention promotes surprise-based brain activity
In a nutshell: Populations of brain cells involved in managing surprise become more active with attention to visual stimuli. Read more
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Perception relies on integrating both new and old information
In a nutshell: New experimental techniques separating attention from expectation show how the brain integrates new sensory information with old information about previous events. Read more
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Taking the first census of cells in a primate brain
In a nutshell: Using a newly developed method, researchers have produced a more accurate record of the number and location of cells in the brain. Read more
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Expanding your mind
In a nutshell: Areas of the brain that have evolved to be much bigger in humans than in other primates act as communication hubs. Read more
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A newly discovered pathway in the brain helps us recognise fearful expressions
In a nutshell: Researchers have found a brain pathway that quickly transmits visual information, helping to settle a debate about its existence in humans. Read more
