Brain Health
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PVNH Disorder
Periventricular Nodular Heterotopia (PVNH) is a rare neurological disorder that is characterized by the malpositioning of neurons in the brain. “Periventricular” refers to the region around the brain ventricles, and “nodular heterotopia” describes the presence of nodules, or small aggregations of nerve cells, that are out of place. During normal brain development, neurons migrate from their place of origin to their final destination. In PVNH, this migration is disrupted, and neurons form nodules in inappropriate areas, particularly near the ventricles. In most cases, PVNH is due to mutations in the FLNA gene, which encodes a protein crucial for cell movement and structure. This disorder follows an X-linked dominant inheritance pattern.…
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The Gut-Brain Axis
In the evolving landscape of healthcare, the relationship between our gut health and mental well-being—colloquially known as the “gut-brain axis”—is rapidly garnering attention. Researchers are uncovering a fascinating web of communication between the billions of bacteria residing in our gut (collectively termed the “gut microbiota”) and our brain. This bidirectional relationship suggests that what we eat may profoundly impact not only our physical health, but our mental health as well. Understanding the Gut-Brain Axis In simple terms, the gut-brain axis refers to the complex communication network that exists between the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) and the enteric nervous system (the “mini-brain” in our gut). This connection…
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Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) remains a crucial issue affecting millions of people worldwide each year. With an annual incidence rate of approximately 500 out of every 100,000 individuals, this translates into an estimated 165,000 new TBI cases in Canada alone each year. While the scale of the problem is staggering, the impacts and the available treatments for TBI are also areas that warrant extensive exploration. TBI is a complex injury with a broad spectrum of symptoms and disabilities. It often results from a violent blow or jolt to the head or body. An object penetrating the skull, such as a bullet or shattered piece of skull, can also cause TBI.…
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Brain Tumour Awareness
The human brain, with its intricate networks and innumerable connections, is an organ of staggering complexity. It is the command centre of our bodies, responsible for our thoughts, emotions, memory, and the essential functioning of all other organs. But like all parts of the body, it can also be affected by disease – including brain tumours. Recognizing May as Brain Tumour Awareness Month, this article seeks to raise awareness about this serious health issue, its types, symptoms, treatments, and the importance of research and support for those living with brain tumours. What is a Brain Tumour? A brain tumour is a mass or growth of abnormal cells in the brain.…
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A New Hope for Alzheimer’s Patients
Alzheimer’s disease is a debilitating neurodegenerative disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. This progressive illness causes memory loss, cognitive decline, and eventually, the inability to perform daily activities. The exact cause of Alzheimer’s is still unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Researchers have identified two proteins, amyloid and tau, that play a crucial role in the disease’s development. Amyloid proteins clump together to form plaques, while tau proteins form tangles, both of which disrupt communication between brain cells and trigger inflammation, ultimately leading to cell death. Despite ongoing research efforts, finding an effective treatment for Alzheimer’s has been an uphill…
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Purple Day: A Global Movement for Epilepsy Awareness
Every year, people around the world come together to celebrate Purple Day in support of epilepsy awareness. This global initiative was founded in 2008 by Cassidy Megan, a young girl from Nova Scotia, Canada, who wanted to dispel myths surrounding epilepsy and encourage people to learn more about the condition. Purple Day aims to foster understanding, reduce the stigma associated with epilepsy, and support the millions of individuals affected by it. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, which are sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain. These seizures can manifest in various forms, ranging from brief moments of unconsciousness to convulsions and muscle spasms. Epilepsy affects people…
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What is Frontotemporal Dementia?
It was recently announced that Hollywood actor Bruce Willis had been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD), an uncommon form of dementia. This has brought attention to a condition that is not as widely known as Alzheimer’s, the most common type of dementia. In this article, we will delve into the complexities of frontotemporal disorders, discuss their impact on those affected and their families, and explore the symptoms, diagnosis, and current treatment options. What is Frontotemporal Dementia? Frontotemporal dementia is a group of progressive neurological disorders that primarily affect the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. These areas are responsible for various cognitive functions, including decision-making, behavior, emotion, and language.…
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Understanding the Spectrum of Neurodivergence
Neurodiversity is a term that has gained significant attention in recent years, particularly in the realms of mental health and education. At its core, neurodiversity is the recognition and acceptance that human brains function and develop in a variety of ways. It celebrates the idea that cognitive differences are a natural part of human variation rather than deficits or disorders. Neurodivergence refers to individuals whose cognitive functioning deviates from what is considered typical or neurotypical. In this article, we will explore some common types of neurodivergence and discuss their unique features. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by differences in social communication, interaction, and…
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Brain-Boosting Foods
The human brain is the command center of the body, and it requires a significant amount of energy to function correctly. The brain is responsible for all the physical, mental, and emotional activities that we perform every day. Thus, it is essential to consume foods that help to boost the brain’s energy levels and avoid those that cause it to feel fatigued. Foods that Boost Brain Energy: Fatty Fish: Fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are essential for brain health and can help improve memory and cognitive function. They also help to reduce inflammation in the brain, which…
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Leafy Greens Linked to Lower Alzheimer’s Risk
A new study has found that people who consume more green leafy vegetables had fewer brain proteins linked to Alzheimer’s disease. In the study, 581 individuals with an average age of 84 at the time of the dietary evaluation agreed to donate their brains upon death for the advancement of dementia research. To assess their food intake, participants completed annual questionnaires regarding the amount of food they consumed across various categories. The study investigated the adherence of individuals to the MIND and Mediterranean diets. Although these diets share similarities, such as the inclusion of vegetables, the Mediterranean diet additionally advises consuming fruits and three or more servings of fish per…