Ben Rein, PhD

Explore the fascinating question of whether true selflessness exists, using the example of a horseshoe crab rescuing its friend at the aquarium! This cool science video delves into the psychology behind helping others, discussing how altruism may be linked to relieving personal stress and anxiety, and improving your reputation.

Do emojis trigger the same brain activity as real human faces? This neuroscience experiment reveals how our brains respond to emojis versus human expressions of pain, offering insights into social interaction and the popularity of emojis in digital communication. Learn about brain activity, facial expressions, and the fascinating world of neuroscience!

Scientists have successfully taught brain cells in a dish to play Pong, and the results are fascinating! This breakthrough in neuroscience demonstrates the potential for integrating biology and computers to create smarter systems, paving the way for advancements in artificial intelligence and our understanding of the human brain.

Discover how altered blood flow in the brain may be an underlying factor in autism spectrum disorder, according to a recent study summarized in one minute! Learn about the genetic mutation in mice and the implications for understanding autism, plus hear about upcoming research from Dr. Baptiste Lacoste at the University of Ottawa.

Can scientists build a super brain? Find out why growing a massive pile of brain cells is more complicated than it sounds! Learn about brain organoids, the challenges of nutrient delivery, and the cutting-edge research at the University of Buffalo that might pave the way for super brains.

Explore the fascinating world of transcranial electrical stimulation and its potential to treat brain conditions like depression and anxiety! Learn about the science behind this innovative therapy, including stochastic resonance and the use of random noise to stimulate brain activity, and decide if you would prefer direct brain stimulation over medication.

Discover the surprising science of generosity! This video breaks down a fascinating study revealing how mice make altruistic decisions and the role of the amygdala in their brains, offering insights into the neuroscience of kindness and social behavior.

Discover why mice are essential in neuroscience research! This educational discussion explores how scientists study brain cells and behavior to understand empathy, pain, and diseases like Alzheimer's, offering hope for advancing treatments and our understanding of the human brain.

Explore the fascinating world of the human nervous system in this quick, educational animation! Learn about the central and peripheral nervous systems, cranial and spinal nerves, and how they control everything from muscle movement to organ function, including heart rate, digestion, and more. Perfect for students and anyone curious about science and health!

Unlock the secrets to a healthier brain with this summary of a groundbreaking Stanford study! Discover how exercise can boost memory, dampen brain inflammation, and even improve cognitive function, offering hope for those with mild cognitive impairment. Learn about the power of clusterin and the surprising effects of exercise on neurogenesis.

Discover how a one-week break from social media can significantly improve your well-being, reduce anxiety, and boost sleep quality, according to scientific studies! Learn practical, science-backed tips to manage your social media usage and prioritize your mental health for a happier, healthier you.

Discover how crucial sleep is for your brain health! Take a quick memory test and learn how sleep deprivation impacts focus, anxiety, and long-term health risks like dementia and cardiovascular disease; improve your well-being by prioritizing sleep tonight.