Loneliness changes activity patterns in the human brain

Chronic social isolation manifests itself in a change in human brain activity and ensures a more lonely self-representation.

Loneliness and the feeling of social isolation are particularly widespread among young adults, people in their mid-50s and the elderly, according to a study published by the University of California in the journal International Psychogeriatrics. In the past few months, the Corona pandemic, which has forced many people to work in their home offices and social distancing, has also caused more loneliness in other age groups, which in severe cases can trigger mental suffering and health problems.

Scientists at Stanford University and Dartmouth College have therefore investigated whether the feeling of loneliness causes changes in the brain. According to their publication in the Journal of Neuroscience, they used functional magnetic resonance tomography (fMRI) to analyze the brain activity of 43 test subjects while they were thinking about their own characteristics and those of celebrities and close friends.

Different patterns of brain activity:

It was shown that the pattern of brain activity varies greatly depending on the caregiver of the thoughts. When thinking about yourself, different circuits are active than when thinking about friends or celebrities. The patterns of thinking about another person become more similar to the patterns of thinking about yourself, the stronger the perceived connection with that person. According to the study authors, "our subjective relationship with these people is crucial for neural representation."

Medial prefrontal cortex:

In all subjects, the medial prefrontal cortex, which is also responsible for a person's self-image, was the central circuit when thinking about himself or other people. However, there were differences between lonely and socially well-integrated subjects. As the researchers report, "the lone participants seemed to have a 'lone' self-representation in the prefrontal cortex." This was reflected in the fact that their activation pattern is more decoupled from other circuits than in socially well integrated people.

In addition, in lonely people, the neural patterns for close friends and oneself differ more. As Andrea Courtney explains, "most of us activate a very similar constellation when thinking about ourselves or our friends." However, this is not the case with lonely people.

According to Meghan Meyer, "it seems that the representation of oneself in the brain of lonely people is more decoupled from that of other people - this is in line with what lonely people feel." The researchers therefore state that "our brain is both information about social Categories as well as about the connection with ourselves. ”According to the study results, chronic social isolation leads to a more lonely self-representation. However, it is unclear whether these neuronal differences are effects or causes of loneliness in humans.

International Psychogeriatrics, doi: doi.org/10.1017/S1041610218002120

Journal of Neuroscience, doi: 10.1523 / JNEUROSCI.2826-19.2020

Everyone has heard of them before, but you can find out which attraction is the most popular here. Read what sensation you must have seen on your European trip and where it is particularly advisable to book a tour in advance. We have researched for you which attraction attracts the most visitors. 

1st place: "Tour Eiffel" (Eiffel Tower) in Paris, France 

Paris, the city of love, has a lot to offer. In addition to the Louvre, where Leonardo da Vinci's famous Mona Lisa hangs and the Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral, there are numerous addresses that you must have seen during your stay in Paris. First and foremost is the Eiffel Tower. Around 7 million people take the elevator up the 273 meters to the viewing platform every year. It is particularly important here that you reserve tickets in advance, as you have to wait a few hours, especially when the weather is nice. 

2nd place: Colosseum in Rome, Italy 

Anyone who is in Rome should also take a look at the location of the spectacular gladiatorial fights. Around 6 million visitors are thrilled every year by the atmosphere of the stadium. With a German speaking tour guide in Rome you have the possibility to avoid snakes and even to look at other premises! 

Did you know that the Colosseum serves as a memorial to the death penalty? Every time the death penalty is abolished or execution is not carried out in any country in the world, the Colosseum is lit with colored lights for 48 hours to celebrate. 

3rd place: St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, Italy 

Our neighbors, the Italians, occupy two places in a row. St. Peter's Basilica is not only a popular destination for pilgrims. In total, 6 million enthusiastic people visit him every year. This largest basilica of World Christianity offers a lot of artistic sights: among others the Michelangelo Buonarottis Pietà, the venerable statue of St. Peter in the main nave, the masterpieces of Bernini, as well as the magnificent papal altar above the tomb of Peter. The conclave also takes place here every time. If white smoke rises, it means that a new Pope has been elected. 

rent-a-guide tip: a tour of St. Peter's Basilica is particularly worthwhile in the morning (around 7 a.m.). In summer it is pleasantly cool, the employees clean the cathedral and in the transept there are masses for few believers. 

4th place: Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, ​​Spain 

Everyone knows the famous architect Antoni Gaudí and thus probably his greatest work in Barcelona. Alongside Park Güell, this is a major tourist attraction that is visited by 2.3 million people annually. Despite its incompleteness, it is truly worth a visit. If the church is to be completed in the first third of this century, it will have 18 towers. Twelve for the apostles, four for the evangelists, one for Jesus and one for Saint Mary. 

5th place: Acropolis in Athens, Greece 

It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986 and is in 5th place with almost two million visitors a year. Translated, Acropolis means "Upper Town" and the meaning can be seen at the latest when you are there, because the Acropolis lies above the city of Athens. But be careful: the Acropolis is a sacred area and therefore the consumption of food, nicotine and alcohol is prohibited. It is best to visit the Acropolis Museum, which opened in 2009 and is already one of the most important and most beautiful museums in the world. 

6th place: London Eye 

A ride on the Coca-Cola London Eye is really captivating. 

It may look like a giant ferris wheel, but the London Eye is officially called the world's tallest "cantilever observation wheel " and you can see the city from all sides. Apart from fancy descriptions, the view from the top is really quite breathtaking. Forget the flimsy open-air carriages full of kissing couples in the usual amusement parks: chic, spacious capsules that can carry up to 25 people at the same time await you . 

7th place: Neuschwanstein Castle in Schwangau, Germany 

The favorite sight in our beautiful country has just been chosen. Neuschwanstein is one of the most visited palaces and castles in Europe. Around 1.4 million people visit the castle of the fairytale king Ludwig II every year. It is possible to drive the way to the castle with a carriage. Unfortunately, the castle is fighting for its limestone facades, as this is affected by the harsh climate. This always requires costly renovation measures. 

8 th place: The Golden Ring 

Experience the best of Southwest Iceland on an 8-hour tour of the Golden Ring. 

The Golden Ring describes the route in southern Iceland , which covers the country's beautiful landscapes and attractions over a length of around 300 kilometers. It leads past beautiful waterfalls, active volcanoes (Strokkur should erupt every 5-10 minutes) and a large national park. It is the most direct and easiest way to enjoy the breathtaking Icelandic landscape while traveling through this Nordic country. Also, just think about the pictures you are going to take. 

9th place: Buckingham Palace in London, England 

Ever since Princess Kate's wedding dress was exhibited there, tourists have been crowding into Buckingham Palace, which is only open to the public in August and September. Then the royal family is usually at Windsor Castle. Half a million people do this annually. The “Changing of guards”, which takes place several times a day, is worth a visit to the official residence of the monarchs. Do not miss a visit there, because it is an absolute highlight. If you are interested in further sights of London, we recommend you take a city tour of London's main sights. 

10th place: Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany 

The popularity of this attraction cannot be measured in terms of visitor numbers, but it is a well-known landmark and a national symbol with which many important events in Berlin are associated. It is said to attract about 20 million people a year. And if you haven't been there yet, you've already had it with you. It is minted on every German 10, 20 and 50 cent coin. 

In Germany you will find the right place for every occasion as well as the biggest attractions.

1. Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle is internationally one of the most famous sights of Germany and one of the most popular sights in Bavaria. Every year over 1.5 million tourists from all over the world come to see the fairy-tale castle. Its location in the foothills of the Alps also makes it a popular travel destination in Germany.

According to Ludwig II's planning, there should be 200 rooms in Neuschwanstein. In the end, only 15 were completed.

It was built from 1869 on behalf of the Bavarian King Ludwig II. For him, Neuschwanstein was the perfect ideal of a medieval knight's castle.

Today these include a neo-Gothic style bedroom, a living room with original furniture and the richly decorated throne room.

Neuschwanstein Castle is suitable for a trip with the family as well as for a vacation as a couple. Up to 6000 people visit the castle every day.

You should definitely book your ticket online beforehand as the number of visitors is limited.

 

2. Brandenburg Gate

The Brandenburg Gate is the top attraction in Berlin. Hardly a postcard of the capital city can do without an image of the photogenic gate.The Brandenburg Gate was built from 1789 to 1793 as the end of the boulevard of the Dorotheenstadt.

The Quadriga on the roof of the Brandenburg Gate was taken to Paris by Napoleon as prey. In 1814 she returned to Berlin.

Today, the classicist building also attracts so many visitors because it is inextricably linked to German history. During the division of Berlin, it stood directly on the border between East and West Berlin. Crossing a couple of decades ago seemed like a dream that could never be fulfilled.

 

3. Imperial Cathedral of Speyer

The Speyer Cathedral is the largest Romanesque church in the world and is one of the most beautiful sights in our country. In 1981 UNESCO declared the cathedral a World Heritage Site. When walking through the old town of Speyer, the sight cannot be overlooked.

 

8 emperors and kings and 4 queens were buried in the crypt of the cathedral. The crypt can be entered.

From the observation deck at a height of around 60 m you have a great view of Speyer and the region. On the way to the church tower, it is worth taking a look at the Kaisersaal. It lies above the entrance portal of the cathedral. In the hall there are nine monumental frescoes by the painter Johann Baptist Schraudolph, which were formerly seen on the walls of the transept.

When the cathedral was renovated, they were dismantled and stored. Since 2012 you can marvel at them in the Kaisersaal. Speyer is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany .

 

4. Marienplatz Munich

The central square in Munich is not only the starting point for the Munich pedestrian zone , you will also find many sights of the Bavarian capital there. The New Town Hall is a sight in itself . It was built from 1867 to 1909 and belongs to the neo-Gothic style.

 

The chimes in the town hall ring every day at 11 a.m. and 12 p.m.

Due to the adjacent buildings and the many events that take place regularly at Marienplatz, the central square is a popular attraction in Munich and all of Germany.If you want to start a shopping day through the metropolis , Marienplatz is also the right starting point.

 

5. Moselle valley

The Moselle Valley is the oldest wine region in Germany and an equally popular travel destination for tourists from Germany and abroad.

The region is particularly known for the varieties Riesling, Müller-Thurgau, Elbling, Kerner, Bacchus, Dornfelder, Pinot Noir and Pinot Blanc.

You can hike through vineyards or bike here. A boat trip on the Moselle is also particularly idyllic. With a view of the vineyards and the romantic villages and towns along the water, your short break will be unique. Numerous grape varieties are grown in the Mosel-Saar-Ruwer wine-growing region. Countless opportunities for a wine tasting are offered by winegrowers and in wine taverns throughout the Moselle valley.

 

6.Cologne Cathedral

City break Cologne

This German landmark is world-famous and, like many other buildings in Germany, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Cologne Cathedral is a true masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

The construction of the Cologne Cathedral was an incredible 632 years. Work started in 1248 and ended in 1880.

Inside the church impresses with its size as well as from the outside. The main nave is 144 meters long and the vault is over 43 meters high.

You can reach the observation deck on the 157.22 meter high south tower after 533 steps . The Three Kings Shrine in the choir room dates from the 13th century and is the largest medieval goldsmith's work in Europe.

 

7. Mainau Flower Island

One of the most beautiful German sights is the flower island of Mainau. From 1951, Lennart Bernadotte, the son of the Swedish King Wilhelm , transformed Mainau into the flower island known today and opened it to visitors.

wants to reach the island in a special Attention hobby sailor: on the flower island there are landing stages.

He had resigned from the Swedish succession to the throne and devoted himself entirely to the project on the flower island of Mainau. Bernadotte also had the castle on the island of Mainau renovated and made it his home.

Today you can stroll through wonderful park landscapes - flowering beds and shrubs as far as the eye can see. Around a million tulips and other spring flowers bloom on Mainau in spring . In summer you can enjoy over 11,000 dahlias.

 

8. Imperial Castle Nuremberg

Another highlight of the travel destinations in Germany is the Kaiserburg in Nuremberg.

The castle is around 1000 years old and was an imperial residence and burgrave seat of the noble family Hohenzollern.

Beer is stored in the cellar aisles below the castle. The Altstadthof brewery uses parts of the cellar system as ripening rooms.

It was almost completely destroyed in the Second World War, but was then almost completely rebuilt. Today it is a popular tourist destination.

At the castle you will find a museum that illuminates the history of the castle and its inhabitants. The tour of the historical rooms takes you through the knight's hall, double chapel and kemenate, where the Kaiserburg Museum can be found to the castle garden of the Imperial Castle is particularly popular. A garden had been on the castle complex since 1425, but it has changed over the centuries.

 

9. Europa-Park Rust

Europa-Park Rust is a popular attraction for families in the south of Germany. Unlike many other amusement parks, it is open for several weeks even in winter . On 95 hectares you can experience endless fun.

The Europa-Park wins awards without end: best amusement park in the world, hotelier of the year, best attraction and much more. Applause.

You can even stay in 5 themed hotels in the park. Over 100 spectacular rides and breathtaking shows make your vacation to this well-known German attraction a special experience.

The park was originally planned as an exhibition area for the Mack family's products.

10. Heidelberg Castle

The Heidelberg Castle is one of the most famous ruins in Germany and is also popular with international tourists. In the preserved part of the castle you can see exhibitions about the history of the castle or take a walk in the spacious gardens.

The Heidelberg Castle was overrun by soldiers from the Sun King Louis XIV in 1689 and partially blown up by French pioneers in 1693.

A special highlight is the castle lighting that takes place annually in summer with a final firework display. From the so-called Philosophenweg you have a top view of the castle ruins of Heidelberg . This runs on the other side of the Neckar and bears its name because poets and thinkers let their thoughts wander here earlier.

11. Miniature Wonderland Hamburg

In Hamburg's warehouse district you can experience the world in small format. The Miniatur Wunderland Hamburg, founded in 2000, was the top attraction in Germany among foreign tourists in 2017, according to the German National Tourist Board.

Where else can you see so many attractions in the world in such a small space ?

You can take a look at the Harz Mountains or the fictional small town of Knufflingen and its airport.

The fictional city of Knufflingen lives. In the city there are house fires, drug trafficking and numerous other depictions of realistic scenes.

A lot of technology has been installed so that things are not too static in the miniature world . Cars, ships and model trains are in motion. There are also many light and sound effects. The miniature wonderland Hamburg also takes you to America, Scandinavia, Hamburg, the Alps, Switzerland and Italy.

12. Wadden Sea

The Wadden Sea of ​​the North Sea is a real highlight for nature lovers. The influence of the tides can be clearly felt on many sections of the coast.

In the area of ​​the Wadden Sea on the North Sea, around 9,000 square kilometers of the sea floor are exposed at low tide.

When the water has returned, you can go for a nice walk there or take a carriage through the mudflats.

The Wadden Sea is also a resting place for migratory birds who take a break here on their way south.

You will also find the famous lugworm in the Wadden Sea.

 

 

 

A coronavirus vaccine may be available on an emergency basis in the fall if it proves to be safe during testing, Pfizer Inc announced on Tuesday. Vaccine testing, which has already started in Germany, could start in the US next week if health authorities agree, Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla said in an interview. The results of the study could then be available next month.

Pfizer needs to do more tests to make sure the vaccine works safely. If all tests are successful, Pfizer could start distributing the vaccine on an emergency basis in the fall - and get approval for large-scale distribution by the end of the year, Bourla said.

Pfizer works with the Mainz-based biotechnology company BioNTech to develop the vaccine. BioNTech announced last week that it had received approval for the first clinical trial of a COVID-19 vaccine in Germany.

BioNTech and Pfizer vaccinate the first twelve subjects in the COVID-19 study

The Mainz-based biotech company and the US pharmaceutical giant have started the clinical trial of their COVID-19 vaccine candidate BNT162. Twelve study participants in Germany have been vaccinated with BNT162 since the start of the study on April 23, 2020, as the two companies announced. This concludes the first dose cohort.

In order to find the optimal dose for the further studies, about 200 healthy volunteers between the ages of 18 and 55 should be vaccinated, the dose range is 1 to 100 micrograms. The safety and immunogenicity of the vaccine will also be investigated. Subjects at higher risk for a severe course of COVID-19 infection are included in the second part of the study.

The study is the first clinical trial of a vaccine candidate against the lung disease COVID-19 caused by the novel coronavirus in Germany. The two companies expect approval of studies for BNT162 in the United States shortly.

BioNTech and Pfizer are working together to develop BNT162. BioNTech will ensure clinical delivery of the vaccine through its manufacturing facilities in Europe. The company is also working with Fosun Pharma to develop BNT162 in China, where the companies plan to conduct clinical trials.

Artical:finanzen.net