We Discover
clues & solutions
GROUND-BREAKING RESEARCH
Scientists at Baycrest's world-renowned Rotman Research
Institute (RRI) published more than 125 research studies in
peer-reviewed journals last year.
Using distraction to boost memory. According to research by
Dr. Lynn Hasher and graduate student Renee Biss, older brains
automatically process both irrelevant and relevant information
in the environment. Using strategies that rely on this extra
information, older adults can perform as well as younger adults
on memory tests. This finding could help mature students, and
lead to placing distractions in homes or nursing homes that
serve as cues for things like when to take a medication, even
if the cues are not consciously noticed.
Tonal languages may prime the brain for music. RRI scientists
have found that speaking a tonal language – found mainly in
Asia, Africa and South America – may improve how the brain
hears music. The finding that music and language – which share
overlapping brain structures – have two-way benefits, offers
exciting possibilities for the rehabilitation of speech and
language deficits. The study was widely covered in the
media, including in The New York Times.
Who is best at impulse control? Using brain image analysis
tools developed at RRI, a team of neuroscientists has been
able to predict with 71 percent accuracy people who are likely
to be better or poorer at impulse control based on patterns of
brain activity. A better understanding of these brain processes
could lead to interventions and training regimens that help
improve self-control.
Rotman Research
Institute (RRI)
scientist Dr. Jean Chen
is applying fMRI
(imaging) techniques
to the study of brain
function and the
development of
new therapies.
