Decoding Heart Rate Signals To Refine Brain Stimulation Therapies for Depression
Published On:
A study by Brigham and Women’s Hospital suggests that monitoring heart rate during transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) could help pinpoint effective stimulation sites in the brain for depression treatment, potentially eliminating the need for MRI scans
“Their goal was to figure out how to harness TMS treatment more effectively, get the dosing right, by selectively slowing down heart rate and identifying the individual best spot to stimulate the brain.”
Research Methodology and Findings
Researchers looked at functional MRI scans from 14 people and identified spots in their brains believed to be optimal targets for depression based on previous studies done on connectivity and depression. Each participant had 10 spots identified in their brains, both optimal (‘connected areas’) and non-optimal for depression treatment. Researchers then observed what happened to heart rate when they stimulated each spot.
The finding could help in both individualizing TMS therapy for depression treatment, by choosing a personalized treatment spot on the brain, and making it more accessible because an MRI wouldn’t need to be done beforehand.
Indian Army receives first batch of 'Nagastra-1' suicide drones
The growing importance of drone technology in modern warfare, the Indian Army has taken delivery of its first batch of indigenously developed "suicide drones," dubbed "Nagastra-1." These high-tech drones, designed for precision strikes on enemy targets, represent a significant leap forward in India's defense capabilities.
the Nagastra-1 is a type of "loitering munition. Manufactured by Economic Explosives Limited (EEL), a subsidiary of Solar Industries.
The drones, weighing approximately 9 kg, are equipped with GPS-enabled guidance systems for accurate targeting within a 2-meter radius. With an endurance of 30 minutes and a range of up to 30 km, the Nagastra-1 can carry a 1 kg warhead, with an upgraded version capable of delivering a 2.2 kg payload over longer distances.
The Nagastra-1 drone's capability to return safely to base using a parachute recovery mechanism is crucial, particularly in scenarios where missions are aborted or targets are not identified. This feature ensures that the drone can be reused, thereby maximizing its operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
The acquisition of Nagastra-1 by the Indian Army reflects a broader global trend towards integrating drones into modern warfare strategies. Recent events, such as Ukraine's effective use of drones against Russian targets and the Houthi group's drone attacks on maritime vessels in Yemen, underscore the increasing significance of drone technology in military operations worldwide.
By leveraging drones like the Nagastra-1, armed forces can enhance their surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike capabilities while minimizing risks to personnel. This shift towards drone-based warfare represents a significant evolution in military tactics, emphasizing precision, flexibility, and the ability to operate in diverse and challenging environments.
