Some findings suggest that representations of the world in the brain are not fixed, however, these results remain controversial. We used a multisensory virtual reality system to control for changes in behavior and sensory experience and found that hippocampal representations of space do indeed drift over time. These results have implications for our understanding of how memories are stored.

The brain dynamically regulates its blood supply presumably to meet neuronal metabolic demands. We identified a sparse, long-projecting population of inhibitory neurons expressing NOS and Tachykinin receptor 1 (Tacr1) that strongly regulate cerebral blood flow. They respond to excitatory feed-forward input and their processes come in close contact with astrocytic end-feet and blood vessels, suggesting that Tacr1 neurons integrate cortical activity to regulate blood supply.

Prof. Alexandru Iordan, University of Michigan, will present on "Harnessing Neuroplasticity in Aging: Cognitive Training and Neuromodulation Based Interventions" 

Abstract: Cognitive performance and brain network distinctiveness typically decline with “normal” aging, and this is further impacted by neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease and its clinical precursor, mild cognitive impairment (MCI). In this talk, I will discuss two strategies that may be used to harness residual neuroplasticity and mitigate this decline. Specifically, I will discuss how cognitive training and neuromodulation using high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) may be leveraged to improve neural efficiency in healthy older adults and in individuals with MCI. Finally, I will present a few preliminary results from several on-going projects in our research program

Notes: 1. This talk will be online only (same time, though: 12:00 pm, CST). 2. As with the previous *external speaker, the talk will be followed by an informal discussion session with trainees, which will be nested within the 90-min interval of the seminar time. Hence, trainees are invited to stick around after the talk. *We do this with the external speakers because, for obvious reasons, the local speakers are more easily accessible (for discussions, advice, etc.). 

Zoom Details:

https://illinois.zoom.us/j/7194027586?pwd=THhHM0dsdll2MlhIdExRR0JKQWFMdz09 

Meeting ID:  719 402 7586

Passcode: 448953

Beckman's Biomedical Imaging Center is accepting proposals to help labs transition to 7 Tesla MRI or create new lines of research on 7 Tesla. These proposals will support small to medium sized studies that demonstrate what can be seen at 7 Tesla may not be visualized at lower fields, to develop technologies for 7 Tesla studies and to establish pilot data for large-scale and collaborative grants. Deadline to submit a proposal is 5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 18. Learn more. Have questions? Email BIC.

Advisor: Prof. Douglas Mitchell

To build on the findings of the recent NASEM Consensus Report, “Toward Sequencing and Mapping of RNA Modifications” and bring together faculty from engineering and the physical, chemical, and life sciences to seed new ideas and collaborations, so we are well-positioned to either drive or respond to RFAs. 

Visit the events page to view the full agenda.

https://apps.uillinois.edu/selfservice

Get energized, focused, and calm! Join our mindfulness instructor extraordinaire, Kristina Reese, in a six-week virtual Mindfulness and Movement series. These live video classes combine mindfulness-based meditation instruction with easy-to-do “desk yoga” type exercises. Contact us at wellbeing@illinois.edu to register for the class.

Stop by and meet University of Illinois Police Department therapy dogs Huff and Rosie.

Many international graduate students and postdocs will secure full-time employment in the United States. Find out what you need to know about U.S. immigration policies to make a smooth transition. This presentation will discuss the H-1B petition process for full-time hires and options for permanent residence in the U.S. The speaker will be Thomas Arkell, an attorney practicing immigration and employment law.

No registration required. This session will be broadcast online at https://go.grad.illinois.edu/eventspace

See the full listing of Graduate College workshops at https://go.grad.illinois.edu/workshops

*If you require any disability-related accommodations to participate in this workshop more fully, please email gradsuccess@illinois.edu