Brain imaging research allows direct assessment of structural and functional brain abnormalities, and thereby provides an improved methodology for studying neurobiological factors predisposing to violent and aggressive behavior. This paper reviews 20 brain imaging studies using four different types of neuroimaging techniques that were conducted in…

Discusses development of the Sonnier Model of Hemispheric Preference. Notes frequent references to the senses "visual" and "auditory" rather than the two hemispheric functions "visual" and "analytical." (RS)

It is proposed that there is a modular but interconnected system underlying the perceived hierarchical organization of objects. The discussion centers on neural and cognitive mechanisms of organizing objects within objects in at least four separate subsystems. (SLD)

Examines the role of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), a clear, colorless liquid that constantly bathes the brain and spinal cord. Scientists argue that cerebrospinal fluid carries important signals for sleep, appetite, and sex. Evaluates past and current research documenting the purpose of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain. (CCM)

Nutrition and learning are inextricably connected. Protein, fat, B vitamins, iron, choline, and antioxidants promote brain functions. The USDA's "Food Guide Pyramid for Young Children" (and adaptations for school-age kids) offers guidelines for formulating a child's diet. Breakfast, family meal-sharing, and exercise are essential.…

Explores the nature of knowledge, particularly the difference between genetic knowledge and cultural knowledge, and its significance for understanding evolution. This exploration is the foundation of a discussion on medical information inherited in genes and accumulated in society. The problems of cultural medical knowledge for evolution are…

Discusses basic facts about the brain and new research findings concerning growth and development that may help reconsider how information literacy skills are taught. Explains Kovalik's Integrated Thematic Instruction Model that recommends taking into account brain research and tying into relevant activities for the entire school year. (LRW)

Discusses the role of movement in brain function for academic learning, examining problems related to children's sedentary lifestyle and highlighting related literature, which includes a study that compared the mental performance of students who were involved in regular continuous activity to that of a group of inactive students and found that…

Describes how to gain optimal learning in the classroom by activating different parts of the brain. Neural systems fatigue very quickly and need to rest. Only a few minutes of factual lecture can be tolerated before the brain seeks other stimuli. The most effective presentation must move back and forth through interrelated neural systems, weaving…

Reviews some of the most pertinent current research on possible causes of dyslexia. Offers guidelines for the prognosis and treatment of dyslexics and literary options for reading teachers and specialists to use in working with dyslexia. (PA)

Investigates differences in brain structures, as reflected in hemispheric laterality, and sex on communicator style preferences. Combines handedness, familial sinistrality, and related correlates as a predictor of standard or anomalous hemispheric dominance. Finds data consistent with hypothesis that communication preferences have a…

Explores how experiences after birth exert a dramatic and precise impact, physically determining how the intricate neural circuits of the brain are wired, in particular, in areas of language and vocabulary. Discusses the brain's acute vulnerability to trauma such as under or over stimulation or abuse. (HTH)

Notes the difference between "properly" stimulated and "expensively stimulated" or "over" stimulated when it comes to providing an environment for infant brain development. Highlights the effectiveness of just talking to a child. Suggests that more important than a particular toy is that parents be attuned to the kind…

Discusses how purposeful heading of soccer balls and head injuries affect soccer players' cognitive dysfunction. Cognitive deficits may occur for many reasons. Heading cannot be blamed when details of the actual event and impact are unknown. Concussions are the most common head injury in soccer and a factor in cognitive deficits and are probably…

Interview with neuropsychologist Brain Butterworth about what research has revealed about how the brain learns abstract concepts such as mathematics and the implications of these findings for teaching mathematics. (PKP)