International Conference on Neurology and Neuro Disorders: March 2023

Tuesday 28 March 2023

Saint Luke’s Neurology

Saint Luke’s Neurology is a comprehensive program nationally recognized by U.S. News & World Report. Our team of fellowship-trained neurologists are certified in specialty areas of neurology, including epilepsy, stroke, multiple sclerosis, sleep disorders, migraines and concussion, Parkinson’s disease, neuromuscular, and other movement disorders.

As part of Saint Luke’s Marion Bloch Neuroscience Institute, our neurologists collaborate with some of the country’s most accomplished neuroscience specialists in neurosurgery, neurointerventional radiology, and neurological rehabilitation.

Choose Saint Luke's for neurology

Our neurologists offer the latest diagnostic and treatment options providing patients the most innovative and effective neurology care.Our Advanced Comprehensive Stroke Center treats more strokes a year than any other Kansas City hospital and has outstanding patient outcomes

First hospital in the region to implant the Medtronic Percept™ deep brain stimulation system to treat movement disorders

A Level 4 Comprehensive Epilepsy Center
Designated National Multiple Sclerosis Society Comprehensive MS Center
Regions only fellowship trained headache and concussion specialist
Leading-edge clinical trials and treatments

Advanced stroke care

Saint Luke’s Neurology also provides stroke coverage 24 hours a day for our Advanced Comprehensive Stroke Center at Saint Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City and other metro and regional Saint Luke’s facilities. We treat 2,000 strokes a year, more than any other Kansas City area hospital, and provide life-saving interventions 13 minutes faster than the national average. Learn more about out stroke outcomes.

Preparing tomorrow’s neurologists

Saint Luke’s is the primary teaching hospital of the University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC) School of Medicine and several of our team members have clinical academic appointments at UMKC.

Our neurologists are proud to be instrumental in training neurology residents from the UMKC Neurology Residency, internal medicine residents, and medical students from several other institutions. We offer a Movement Disorders Fellowship and will expand provide other fellowship opportunities in the future.

#Neurology #Neurologicaldisorders #Nervoussystem #Neuromuscular #Affectivefilter #Amygdala #Axon #Brainmapping #CentralNervousSystem #CentralNervousSystem #Cerebellum #CerebralCortex #Cognition #Dendrites #Dopamine #Glia #Neurons #Neuroplasticity #Neurotransmitters #Numeracy #RADlearning #Synapse #EEG #EMG #NCS #Neurologist #Cranialnerves #Alzheimer #Neuropathy #Radiculopathy

Visit: https://neurology-conferences.pencis.com/
For Enquiries : neurology@pencis.com

Saturday 25 March 2023

Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Neurodevelopmental disorders are disabilities associated primarily with the functioning of the neurological system and brain. Examples of neurodevelopmental disorders in children include attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, learning disabilities, intellectual disability (also known as mental retardation), conduct disorders, cerebral palsy, and impairments in vision and hearing. Children with neurodevelopmental disorders can experience difficulties with language and speech, motor skills, behavior, memory, learning, or other neurological functions. While the symptoms and behaviors of neurodevelopmental disabilities often change or evolve as a child grows older, some disabilities are permanent. Diagnosis and treatment of these disorders can be difficult; treatment often involves a combination of professional therapy, pharmaceuticals, and home- and school-based programs. Based on parental responses to survey questions, approximately 15% of children in the United States ages 3 to 17 years were affected by neurodevelopmental disorders, including ADHD, learning disabilities, intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, autism, seizures, stuttering or stammering, moderate to profound hearing loss, blindness, and other developmental delays, in 2006–2008.1Among these conditions, ADHD and learning disabilities had the greatest prevalence. Many children affected by neurodevelopmental disorders have more than one of these conditions: for example, about 4% of U.S. children have both ADHD and a learning disability.2 Some researchers have stated that the prevalence of certain neurodevelopmental disorders, specifically autism and ADHD, has been increasing over the last four decades.3-7 Longterm trends in these conditions are difficult to detect with certainty, due to a lack of data to track prevalence over many years as well as changes in awareness and diagnostic criteria. However, some detailed reviews of historical data have concluded that the actual prevalence of autism seems to be rising.4,8-10 Surveys of educators and pediatricians have reported a rise in the number of children seen in classrooms and exam rooms with behavioral and learning disorders

Thursday 23 March 2023

New research reveals competition between brain hemispheres during sleep

Human beings are bilaterally symmetrical. As such, our brains are made of two halves called hemispheres, which communicate with each other using specialized fiber tracts running across the midline. While each hemisphere tends to deal with the senses (vision, hearing, touch) and motor control of the opposite side of the body, we are generally not aware of this partitioning of function, thanks to constant inter-hemispheric communication. In humans, the two hemispheres are also specialized for certain functions: language areas, for example, are typically in the left hemisphere.

Luis Riquelme and Gilles Laurent of the Max Planck Institute for Brain Research in Frankfurt, Germany report in Nature that during one phase of sleep, the two halves of the Pogona brain compete with one another such that one side imposes its activity on the other, until the dominant hemisphere switches over to the other side, alternating back and forth throughout the night.

Lorenz Fenk explains, "Sleep in Pogona is divided into two states, similar to those described in mammals, including humans: a phase of so-called slow-wave sleep, where the electroencephalogram shows low-frequency waves—hence the name—and a second phase, called REM (for Rapid Eye Movement) or paradoxical sleep, where the EEG resembles that recorded during the awake state (hence 'paradoxical') and the eyes tend to make jerky movements under the eye lids (hence REM) while the body is otherwise paralyzed."

In humans, sleep starts with a long slow-wave phase (for about 60 minutes) followed by 5-10 minutes of REM, and this alternating cycle starts over again, 5-7 times per night. As the night progresses, the fraction of REM sleep increases at each sleep cycle. In Pogona, the sleep cycle is much shorter (less than 2 minutes) and the two sleep states are equal in duration (45-60 seconds each) throughout the night. A dragon undergoes 250-350 such sleep cycles each night, alternating regularly between its versions of slow-wave and REM sleep.

By recording neuronal activity simultaneously from the same area (called the claustrum) on the two sides of the Pogona brain, the scientists discovered that each side operates independently of the other during the slow-wave phase of sleep. To their surprise, however, the two sides became precisely synchronized during REM, but with a very short delay of 20 milliseconds (a millisecond is a thousandth of a second) between the left and right brains. More surprising still, they found that the side leading the other by 20ms switched on average once per sleep cycle between left and right sides.

Tuesday 21 March 2023

Neuroscience Market: Global Industry Trends, Share, Size, Growth, Opportunity and Forecast 2023-2028

Market Overview:

The global neuroscience market size reached US$ 33.5 Billion in 2022. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 42.2 Billion by 2028, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 3.7% during 2023-2028.

Neuroscience refers to the scientific study of the brain and nervous system. It is an interdisciplinary science that works closely with other disciplines, including cellular and molecular biology, physiology, anatomy, and human behavior and cognition. It provides valuable insights into the anatomy of the brain and neurological, physical, and psychological functioning. It also assists neurologists in understanding various factors that can aid in the development of medications and strategies to treat and prevent numerous neurological disorders. Nowadays, researchers and neuroscientists are increasingly employing advanced imaging techniques for identifying neural networks involved in understanding disease pathways, early disease diagnosis, and cognitive processes.

Neuroscience Market Trends:

The increasing number of deaths due to various neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's, schizophrenia, and other brain-related conditions, represents the primary factor driving the market growth. Besides this, the escalating demand for neuroimaging devices and the ongoing brain mapping research and investigation projects are other major growth-inducing factors. Additionally, the governments of various nations are taking favorable initiatives to spread awareness about neurological diseases and the available treatment options. Along with this, the rising usage of microscopy, optogenetics, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and electrophysiology instruments in the diagnosis of several neurological disorders is catalyzing the market growth. Furthermore, the leading players are developing innovative medical devices that offer enhanced efficiency and patient compliance to expand their product portfolio and gain a competitive edge. Moreover, the growing awareness regarding the benefits of advanced neuroscience devices, such as the combination of other imaging devices along with the MRI and neuro microscopes over conventional standalone imaging devices, is propelling the market growth. Other factors, including the surging government funding for research and development (R&D) activities, advancements in the field of neuroscience and neuro-technology, increasing healthcare expenditure, rising geriatric population, and improving healthcare infrastructure, are also providing a positive thrust to the market growth.

Key Market Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each sub-segment of the global neuroscience market report, along with forecasts at the global, regional and country level from 2023-2028. Our report has categorized the market based on component, technology and end user.

Breakup by Component:

Instruments and Consumables
Software and Services
Brain Imaging
Neuro-Microscopy
Electrophysiology
Neuroproteomic Analysis
Animal Behaviour Analysis
Others

Breakup by End User:

Hospitals
Diagnostic Laboratories
Research and Academic Institutes
Others

Monday 20 March 2023

In Silico Clinical Trials Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Therapeutic Area (Oncology, Infectious Diseases), By Phase (Phase I, II, III), By Industry (Medical Devices, Pharmaceutical), And Segment Forecasts, 2022 - 2030

Report Overview

The global in silico clinical trials market size was valued at USD 2.7 billion in 2021 and is anticipated to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.4% during the forecast period. Animal and human testing in clinical trials have higher chances of side effects. In silico clinical trials reduce the chances of adverse reactions during trials, thus, improving the safety and efficacy of research studies. Moreover, the technological advancements in in silico clinical trials improve its demand in the market. Traditional clinical trials are significantly expensive compared to in silico trials. According to a clinical research organization, Sofpromed, the average cost of a clinical trial costs around USD 4 million to USD 20 million.

Hence, the high cost associated with traditional clinical trials is one of the major factors supporting the adoption of computer-based trials. Moreover, in silico trials provide a better understanding of the safety and efficacy of a drug or a device and also reduce the chances of termination of clinical trials, thus reducing the expenditure involved in the trials. In recent years, there has been a significant rise in R&D expenditure for drug development. For instance, the Congressional Budget Office report (U.S.) on pharmaceutical R&D states that the R&D expenses of the pharmaceutical industry have increased from USD 38 billion in 2000 to USD 83 billion in 2019.

The growth in R&D spending is likely to have a positive impact on the market growth. The COVID-19 pandemic had resulted in a temporary shutdown of clinical research sites, which promoted the demand for in silico clinical trials for research studies. Disruptions in clinical research due to the COVID-19 outbreak have kindled a new level of interest in using computer simulations to predict clinical trial outcomes. The pandemic had created an urgent need for therapeutics and vaccines globally. The traditional trials require huge amounts and more time; to tackle this problem, researchers were using computer simulation trials for validating therapeutics and vaccines for COVID-19.

For instance, in December 2020, BioMed Central published a research study, in which, computer simulation trials were used for testing the COVID-19 vaccine. Such actions are likely to have a positive impact on market growth. However, low awareness about in silico trials in the developing economies and issues related to protein flexibility, molecule conformation, and promiscuity leading to inaccurate prediction may hinder the demand for computer simulation trials.

Industry Insights

The medical devices segment accounted for the highest revenue share of more than 57% in 2021. The simulations for medical devices are considered more accurate as compared to pharmaceuticals, which is the key reason for the majority of in silico trials being performed for medical devices. Moreover, the government agencies like the FDA are also promoting the use of in silico models for testing medical devices. For instance, in July 2019, Dassault Systèmes extended its collaboration agreement with the U.S. FDA for its 3DEXPERIENCE platform for testing medical devices for heart diseases. In addition, government agencies are also supporting the computer simulation trials by providing market players with funds.

For instance, in April 2021, an Italian startup, InSilicoTrials Technologies, received funding for its 3 Horizon 2020 project by the EU to support the development of advanced medical devices through in silico trials. Such actions are expected to improve the market growth of computer simulation trials for medical devices in the future. However, the pharmaceutical segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period owing to the increasing demand for innovative treatment options globally. The concerns regarding the harmful effect of drugs on humans in traditional clinical trials are further contributing to the demand for computer simulation trials for pharmaceuticals.

Therapeutic Area Insights

Based on therapeutic areas, the market has been further segmented into oncology, infectious disease, hematology, cardiology, dermatology, neurology, diabetes, and others. The oncology segment accounted for the largest revenue share of 27.0% in 2021. Traditional clinical trials for cancer are considered expensive and also have high chances of incurring harmful effects on humans. These factors are primarily contributing to the demand for cancer in silico clinical trials. Furthermore, technological advances like the incorporation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in cancer computer simulation trials for better understanding, safety, and efficacy of drugs are further contributing to the segment growth.

The developments in cancer in silico studies have further promoted segment growth. For instance, in May 2021, GNS Healthcare announced the development of the first in silico patient for prostate cancer. However, the infectious diseases segment is expected to register the fastest CAGR over the forecast period. A rise in the spread of infectious diseases globally is the prime reason for the segment’s growth. Moreover, increasing fundings for in silico trials for infectious diseases are likely to have a positive impact on the segment’s growth. For instance, in February 2018, the European Union contributed approximately USD 519.6 million for the development of tuberculosis vaccines with the use of in silico research.

Phase Insights

Based on phases, the market is divided into phases I, II, III, and IV. The phase II segment accounted for the largest revenue share of more than 44.5% in 2021 and is also expected to register the fastest CAGR during the forecast period. The majority of in silico trials are at phase II, which is the prime reason for the largest share of the segment. The rise in R&D activities for advanced therapeutics and medical devices is further contributing to the growth of this segment. Moreover, the growing focus on series funding with an aim to expand clinical research facilities is one of the considerable factors supporting market growth.

In addition, an increasing number of pharmaceutical companies are focusing on the development of generic drugs on account of patent expiration. This has further augmented the number of clinical trials conducted across the globe, thereby supporting the segment growth. The phase II segment is also expected to record significant growth during the forecast period. The rising demand for biologics and personalized medicines across the globe and increasing awareness among the population to eliminate animal studies are a few of the factors supporting the growth of the phase III segment.

Wednesday 15 March 2023

What is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)?

What is an MRI Scanner?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a technique which enables us to view the inside of the brain and body. The MRI scanner looks like a tube where the participant lies on a bed in the middle as seen in figure 1. When lying in the scanner, the participant’s head is located within a smaller ‘head coil’ which detects signals, the MRI signals.

How Does an MRI Scanner Work?

MRI uses different magnetic fields and radio waves to measure the properties of tissues in your body. Tissues respond to these magnetic fields in different ways which result in varying contrasts in an MR image. For example, looking at the MR image in figure 2 on your right you can see that some parts of the brain are brighter than other parts depending on the tissue type. Because MRI uses only magnetic fields and radio waves, it is considered more safe than scans which use radiation (e.g. x-rays).

What is a 7T Scanner and How Does it Differ from Typical MRI Scanners?

When we talk about types of MRI scanners, we refer to the strength of the magnetic field in Tesla (abbreviated by T). Typical MRI scanners have a magnetic field strength of 3 Tesla (3T). 3T MRI scanners are routinely used in clinical imaging. New MRI scanners for ultra-high resolution imaging have a field strength of 7 Tesla (7T), these decrease the relative noise level in the images and allow for scanning with an even higher resolution.

What is Spatial Resolution?

Spatial resolution refers to the (effective) size of each pixel in an image. In figure 3 you can see an example of a scan at 3T (left) and one at 7T (right). The picture on the right offers much more detail and smaller structures can be better seen than in the image on the left.

Why Does Spatial Resolution Matter in MRI Scanning?

If an MRI scan has a higher resolution, it means we can obtain detailed images of higher quality. This is similar to going from standard TV to high-definition TV. This means we can measure properties of the brain in more detail and potentially pick up subtle signs of Alzheimer's disease that standard MRI scans cannot show. These ultra-high resolution MRI scans may enable us to detect harmful proteins which are involved in dementia without using radioactive injections, or detect effects of the disease never seen before in the living brain.

Is Ultra-High Resolution MRI Safe?

A 7T MRI scanner is very similar to lower field MRI scanners. Thus, as with standard MRI strict procedures are followed to ensure the safety of the person being scanned. For example, removing all metal on you (coins, jewelry) and making sure no metal is in your body (pacemakers, stents). Due to the stronger magnetic field, these safety procedures will be slightly more stringent than normal MRI scanners but we and the radiographers will go through them with our participants. In some cases the 7T MRI scanner will be louder than the typical 3T MRI scanner, but we will give our participants appropriate hearing protection to ensure comfort.

Why Does an MRI Scanner Make a Noise?

MRI scanners use fast switching magnetic field gradients in the kilo-Hertz frequency range, in order to create images of what is inside our brains and body. The coils generating these fields experience some force in the strong magnetic field, which in turn leads to small vibrations of the system. These vibrations also translate into sound waves, which can be heard. Since the switching of magnetic field gradients depends on the type of MR image acquired, one can typically hear many different sounds over the course of an MRI scan.

Monday 13 March 2023

Affective Filter Hypothesis

The Affective Filter Hypothesis is refers to the role of affect – the experience of internal feeling or emotion, ranging from suffering to elation — in creating “filters” that facilitate or impede learning.

The Affective Filter Hypothesis is a corollary of the Comprehensible Input Hypothesis — the proposal that we need spoken input at a level slightly above our comprehension abilities in order to acquire language. However, we are only “open” to utilizing this input for learning if we have the right affective mindset.

Both of these are intuitive hypotheses – observation and conjecture – about how affective states might influence receptivity to listening input. Apart from anecdotal evidence, there is no reliable way to measure this. Still both hypotheses resonate with many teachers.

The AFH “claims that learners with high motivation, self-confidence, a good self-image, and a low level of anxiety are better equipped for success in second language acquisition. Low motivation, low self-esteem, and debilitating anxiety can combine to ‘raise’ the affective filter and form a ‘mental block’ that prevents Comprehensible Input from being used for acquisition. In other words, when the filter is ‘up’ it impedes natural listening and thus slows down or halts learning. On the other hand, positive affect is necessary, but not sufficient on its own, for acquisition to take place.”

This may seem like common sense, but it is worth keeping in mind: in order to learn effectively, students need to feel comfortable, to feel an “inclusiveness”, accepted for who they are, personally and culturally. This includes feeling accepted for their current level of language mastery: that they don’t need to pretend to understand more than they do.

The upshot for teaching listening: We need to pay attention to students’ mindset first and foremost when teaching listening. If they are not receptive — for affective or cognitive reasons — they will not listen effectively.

Some activities that focus on learner involvement and development of ‘self image’ and ‘inclusiveness’:

• Photo Album

• Listening Circles

• Special Skill

Saturday 11 March 2023

Understanding Sleep Disorders

Getting enough sleep is vital to your physical and emotional health. Important things to know:

Most adults need seven to eight hours of sleep.

One in three American adults report regularly sleeping less than seven hours a night, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Two in three high school students report sleeping less than eight hours a night, according to 2017 CDC data.

Too little sleep can lead to a variety of short- and long-term problems.

At least 40 million Americans have a long-term sleep disorder, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.

What are sleep disorders?

Sleep disorders are conditions that disrupt your ability to get enough high-quality sleep. The International Classification of Sleep Disorders — the most widely used system — identifies six major categories, plus a category for additional types.

Why is sleep so important?

Scientists believe we need sleep to do things such as:Learn and preserve memories

Clear toxins from brain cells

Regulate hormones

Repair damaged tissues

Control emotions and behavior

Not getting enough sleep can put you at risk for short- and long-term problems, such as:Increased risk of obesity, diabetes and depression.

Learning, emotional and behavior issues.

Weakened immune system.

Increased risk of work or car accidents. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration blames drowsy driving for nearly 800 deaths in 2017.

Relationship conflicts

Who gets sleep disorders?

Tens of millions of Americans have a sleep disorder, according to estimates. Precise numbers are difficult to pin down, though, because:Data is often based on surveys, not monitored sleep tests.

Definitions of terms such as insomnia vary.

Statistics are repeated without the original source, or they trace back to a source that’s 10 or more years old.

Sleep disorders are intertwined with many other conditions.

Available information includes:The portion of Americans with sleep apnea surged from the 1980s to 2010, according to a study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology in 2013. Scientists linked the increase to the rise in obesity rates.

The study estimated that among adults ages 30 to 70, about 13% of men (about one in eight) and about 6% of women (about one in 17) had moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea.

About one in six U.S. adults reported having trouble falling asleep four or more times in the previous week, according to the CDC’s 2012-14 National Health Survey.

Causes of sleep disorders

Sleep disorders can be caused by physical, emotional and mental health issues. They can also be linked to other conditions. Factors include:Weight: If you carry excess weight, fat deposits around your nose and throat may block your breathing. This can cause apnea, in which breathing repeatedly stops for a few or more seconds during sleep.

Mental health: Trauma, depression, mental illnesses and stress can lead to insomnia and other sleep disorders.

Shift work: Night shift workers often have trouble getting enough sleep to stay healthy. A growing body of research shows possible connections between night shift work and diseases such as cancer.

Hormone changes in women: Hormone shifts in menstruation, pregnancy and menopause can affect sleep patterns. Hot flashes during menopause, for example, can disrupt sleep.

Long distance travel: Frequent business and professional travelers across multiple time zones often struggle to sleep enough hours to maintain good health.

Environmental conditions: Nighttime light and noise, particularly in cities, may disrupt your body’s circadian rhythm (body clock) and upset your sleep routine.

Chronic medical conditions: People with health issues such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, chronic headaches, heart disease or cancer often develop sleep disorders.

Secondhand sleep issues: Partners who snore, grind teeth or talk in their sleep, or children who awaken during the night, can disrupt the sleep of others.

Medications: Antidepressants, antihistamines, asthma medications, and drugs and alcohol all may contribute to insomnia.

Symptoms of sleep disorders

If you have any of these signs or symptoms, see your doctor. Your doctor might want to refer you to a specialist or schedule you for a sleep study.Long periods of not breathing, which may indicate apnea

Excessive daytime sleepiness

Deep snoring, noise or restlessness while sleeping

Irregular breathing or increased movement during sleep

Difficulty falling asleep

Headaches upon waking

Consistent nightmares

Physical reactions to dreams

Types of sleep disorders

The International Classification of Sleep Disorders defines six categories, plus a category for disorders that don’t fit a category. Among the categories are dozens of subtypes.

Some common sleep disorder categories and types are:

Insomnia: People with insomnia can’t go to sleep or stay asleep at night. Chronic insomnia may be a symptom of other problems, such as depression or anxiety, chronic stress or pain. Insomnia is considered “acute” if it’s short term, lasting a night to a few weeks. Insomnia is considered chronic if it occurs at least three nights a week for three months.

Obstructive sleep apnea: This occurs when the soft tissues in your throat block your upper airway, cutting off your oxygen supply for a few seconds. You wake up and breathe again. These hundreds of brief awakenings cause daytime sleepiness, the main symptom of the disorder.

Central sleep apnea: This type is rare but important to understand because of the link to opioid use. It occurs when you repeatedly stop breathing during sleep because your brain does not prompt your body to breathe. In addition to opioids, it is sometimes associated with congestive heart failure or prior stroke.

Narcolepsy: People with this chronic genetic disorder may experience: Severe daytime sleepiness

Dreamlike hallucinations while falling asleep or waking up

Temporary muscle weakness

Diagnosis can be difficult, and treatment is often with medication. Scientists know that narcolepsy involves the body's central nervous system, but they have not identified its cause.

Restless legs syndrome: This neurological disorder triggers an irresistible urge to move your legs shortly after you get into bed, in the middle of the night or during the day. It is twice as common in women than men and becomes more common with age.

Periodic limb movement disorder: This is repetitive cramping or jerking of the legs during sleep. Most people with restless legs syndrome also have this disorder.

Teeth grinding: Also called bruxism, this condition is more common among heavy drinkers, smokers or people who are under stress. Some teeth grinders use a mouth guard at night to reduce wear on their teeth.

Circadian rhythm (body clock) disorders: Common disruptions of our circadian rhythms are jet lag and night shift work. Habits and techniques can help you lessen the effects of a disruptive schedule.

Parasomnias (abnormal movements): These disorders may be symptoms of other health or emotional issues. They include: Sleepwalking: This occurs when the parts of your brain that control walking and physical activities stay active while you sleep. It is common among both adults and children. It is rarely dangerous.

Sleep terrors: Also called night terrors, this form of sleepwalking may cause people to scream, break into a sweat or get out of bed abruptly.

Thursday 9 March 2023

Brain Basics: Genes and the Brain

Genes do more than just determine the color of our eyes or whether we are tall or short. Genes are at the center of everything that makes us human.

Genes are responsible for producing the proteins that run everything in our bodies. Some proteins are visible, such as the ones that compose our hair and skin. Others work out of sight, coordinating our basic biological functions.

For the most part, every cell in our body contains exactly the same genes, but inside individual cells some genes are active while others are not. When genes are active, they are capable of producing proteins. This process is called gene expression. When genes are inactive, they are silent or inaccessible for protein production.

At least a third of the approximately 20,000 different genes that make up the human genome are active (expressed) primarily in the brain. This is the highest proportion of genes expressed in any part of the body. These genes influence the development and function of the brain, and ultimately control how we move, think, feel, and behave. Combined with the effects of our environment, changes in these genes can also determine whether we are at risk for a particular disease and if we are, the course it might follow.

This brochure is an introduction to genes, how they work in the brain, and how genomic research is helping lead to new therapies for neurological disorders.

Tuesday 7 March 2023

Damage to the Amygdala: Understanding the Functions, Symptoms, & Treatments

The amygdala is an almond-shaped structure in the brain that is responsible for emotional and behavioral regulation, particularly the body’s response to fear. Damage to the amygdala can often be caused by stroke, traumatic brain injury, and other neurological conditions.

Individuals with amygdala damage may experience various emotional and behavioral effects such as impaired decision-making, hypervigilance, or anxiety, just to name a few. Fortunately, symptoms of amygdala damage can improve with a combination of treatments, including medication and therapy.

This article will discuss how damage to the amygdala can affect emotions and behavior, and effective treatment options to promote recovery.

What Is the Function of the Amygdala?

The amygdala is a small, almond-shaped collection of neurons located deep inside the temporal lobe. It is a crucial part of the limbic system, a group of structures involved with emotional responses and behavior. The amygdala is responsible for several functions, such as processing fear and other related emotions.

When we are exposed to a fearful or dangerous stimulus, this information is sent directly to the amygdala. The amygdala then passes those signals on to other areas of the brain, such as the hypothalamus, which then activates the body’s “flight or fight” response depending on the situation. The cerebral cortex, particularly the frontal lobe, is another area of the brain that works with the amygdala to regulate emotions and behaviors.

The amygdala also contributes to higher cognitive functions such as:Forming & storing long-term memories

Learning new information

Decision-making skills

When the amygdala sustains damage, it can impair these functions and interfere with emotional and behavioral processes. As a result, individuals may experience problems with memory, decision-making, and other behavioral skills.

Health Conditions that Can Affect the Amygdala

Damage to the amygdala can be caused by various conditions, including neurological injuries like traumatic brain injury and stroke. Because the amygdala is located in the temporal lobe, injury to this area caused by a TBI, stroke, or seizure can also result in amygdala damage.

In fact, temporal lobe epilepsy is a relatively common cause of damage to the amygdala. Brain inflammation, specifically limbic encephalitis, can also lead to amygdala damage on both sides of the brain.

Alzheimer’s disease may also cause atrophy (shrinking) of the amygdala and the hippocampus, two structures of the brain associated with memory and emotional function. This helps to explain why memory problems and personality changes often occur in people with Alzheimer’s.

When these health conditions affect the amygdala, it can lead to mood swings, irritability, and even aggression. It can also lead to memory problems and changes in emotions and behavior. It’s important to seek medical attention if any of these health conditions and/or other symptoms of amygdala damage are present.

Symptoms of Amygdala Damage

Damage to the amygdala can cause a variety of symptoms, most often emotional and behavioral. Individuals may experience irritability, confusion, and a variety of strong emotions. Symptoms of amygdala damage can be complex and may require a combination of treatments. Therefore it’s important to consult with a medical provider if any of these symptoms appear after a brain injury.

Some of the most common symptoms of amygdala damage include:Amygdala hijack: is a term used when the amygdala becomes overwhelmed by stress, “hijacking” the logical and rational centers of the brain. Sensory input passes by the amygdala before being transmitted to the more rational areas of the brain, such as the prefrontal cortex. As such, the amygdala can prompt an extreme reaction to a stressful situation, before the higher-level areas of the brain can even “think” about it. When this occurs, the brain releases two stress hormones, cortisol and adrenaline, which help prepare the body for “fight or flight.” As a result, individuals may experience a rapid heartbeat, sweaty palms, goosebumps on the skin, dilated pupils, increased blood flow to the muscles, and increased glucose (blood sugar) levels.

Memory Loss: occurs when the amygdala, which is responsible for encoding the emotional aspect of memory, and the hippocampus, which encodes the context, cannot efficiently work together. As a result, individuals may struggle to retain information and experience long and short-term memory loss.

Impaired Decision-Making: can be caused by damage to the amygdala and/or orbitofrontal cortex. When decision-making becomes impaired, individuals may struggle to make safe and rational decisions. Studies show that individuals are more likely to make riskier decisions when the amygdala does not trigger somatic responses or reactions to external stimuli like fear. Impaired decision-making can also cause impulsive behavior, which can sometimes put a survivor at risk for harm.

Hypervigilance: may be caused by lesions on the amygdala. Individuals with hypervigilance may have a perceived fear of others. For example, some may become sensitive to certain facial expressions or words, which they may interpret as a possible sign of threat. This can cause feelings of anxiety and paranoia, however, unlike survivors with paranoia, hypervigilant individuals typically understand that the threat may not be real or true.

Anxiety and/or Depression: are two common secondary effects of a TBI that can occur after damage to the amygdala, a key component of emotion regulation. Studies show that depression is associated with increased activity of the amygdala and decreased activity of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for executive control. Hyperactivation of the amygdala is also associated with other mental health conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), social anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and/or panic attacks.

Individuals with amygdala damage may also experience difficulty with emotional regulation, primarily in regards to fear. For example, in dangerous situations, individuals may show an abnormal fear response.

Furthermore, they may have difficulties recognizing when those around them are experiencing fear. This can raise concern for both the survivor and their loved one. Fortunately, with the proper treatment, survivors can work toward regulating their emotions and behavior after brain damage.

How to Treat Amygdala Damage

Damage to the amygdala may require a combination of treatments, depending on the root cause. To find safe and effective treatments for amygdala damage, it’s important to consult with a medical provider and follow their tips and guidelines. They may suggest making lifestyle changes and adapting healthier habits to help the amygdala heal after brain damage.

Some of the most effective treatments for amygdala damage may include:Psychotherapy: can help with impaired decision-making, impulsivity, and other emotional and behavioral symptoms of amygdala damage. Psychotherapy can help survivors learn different techniques to help them evaluate risks and make better, safer decisions.

Mindfulness: is the practice of staying present, and often calm, in the moment. It can help reduce stress levels and depression caused by damage to the amygdala. Mindfulness can also increase the gray matter areas of the brain, which play a role in memory and emotional regulation.

Deep Brain Stimulation: is a neurosurgical procedure that involves implanting electrodes in certain areas of the brain associated with movement and neurological disorders. Studies have shown that deep brain stimulation can help treat hypervigilance and other psychological and behavioral effects of amygdala damage. While it can be helpful, it’s important to note that deep brain stimulation is a highly invasive procedure that should only be utilized when all other options have been exhausted.

Certain medications may also help reduce hypervigilance and impulsivity caused by damage to the amygdala. However, medication may have unwanted side effects and may interfere with certain health conditions. Therefore, it’s important for every survivor to consult with a primary care physician to ensure medication is an appropriate treatment for their specific needs.

Understanding Damage to the Amygdala

Different structures of the brain typically control various functions of the body. The amygdala in particular controls the body’s response to fear and emotional and behavioral regulation. When the amygdala sustains damage, it can cause difficulty with memory processing, emotional reactions, and decision-making.

Fortunately, the effects of amygdala damage can be improved through rigorous training and therapy. A doctor or therapist can provide individuals with the most effective treatments for their specific condition and tips to promote recovery.

We hope this article helped you understand how damage to the amygdala can be improved.

Abstral sublingual tablets

Why am I taking ABSTRAL?
ABSTRAL contains the active ingredient fentanyl (as citrate). ABSTRAL is a strong pain medicine used to treat breakthrough cancer pain in adults who are already receiving an effective maintenance dose of opioid therapy for their underlying cancer pain. For more information, see Section 1. Why am I taking ABSTRAL? in the full CMI.

What should I know before I take ABSTRAL?
Do not take if you have ever had an allergic reaction to fentanyl or any of the ingredients listed at the end of the CMI. Talk to your doctor if you have any other medical conditions, take any other medicines, or are pregnant or plan to become pregnant or are breastfeeding. For more information, see Section 2. What should I know before I take ABSTRAL? in the full CMI.

What if I am taking other medicines?
Some medicines may interfere with ABSTRAL and affect how it works. A list of these medicines is in Section 3. What if I am taking other medicines? in the full CMI.

How do I take ABSTRAL?
ABSTRAL sublingual tablet is placed under your tongue until dissolved. Do not suck, chew or swallow the tablet
Do not eat or drink anything until the tablet is completely dissolved. If needed, you can moisten your mouth by rinsing it with water before placing the tablet under your tongue.
More instructions can be found in Section 4. How do I take ABSTRAL? in the full CMI.

What should I know while taking ABSTRAL?

Things you should do
Remind any doctor, dentist or pharmacist you visit that you are taking ABSTRAL
Carefully follow your doctor's instructions on how much ABSTRAL to take for each breakthrough pain episode, especially when you first start taking ABSTRAL or change the dose
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if your pain does not improve.

Things you should not do
Do not take ABSTRAL for other types of pain (e.g. post-operative pain, headache, migraine)
Do not take ABSTRAL unless you have already been receiving opioid maintenance therapy for cancer-related pain for at least one week, because it may increase the risk of experiencing severe breathing difficulties
Do not take ABSTRAL if you have any lung conditions or breathing difficulties unless your doctor tells you to.

Driving or using machines
Do not drive or operate machinery while taking ABSTRAL as it can cause dizziness, drowsiness or blurred vision.

Drinking alcohol
Do not consume alcohol while taking ABSTRAL, as dizziness and drowsiness may become worse.

Looking after your medicine
Keep your medicine in a cool dry place below 25°C
Keep your medicine where children cannot reach it.

For more information, see Section 5. What should I know while taking ABSTRAL? in the full CMI.

Are there any side effects?
The most common side effects of ABSTRAL are nausea, drowsiness and vomiting. Tell your doctor or pharmacist immediately or go to Emergency Department at your nearest hospital if you experience shortness of breath, wheezing or difficulty breathing, fast or slow heartbeat, dizziness or light-headedness, unusual or extreme mood swings, blurred vision, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or other parts of the body, or skin rashes.
For more information, including what to do if you have any side effects, see Section 6. Are there any side effects? in the full CMI.

WARNING:
Limitations of use
ABSTRAL should only be taken when your doctor decides that other treatment options are not able to effectively manage your pain or you cannot tolerate them.
Hazardous and harmful use
ABSTRAL poses risks of abuse, misuse and addiction which can lead to overdose and death. Your doctor will monitor you regularly during treatment.
Life threatening respiratory depression
ABSTRAL can cause life-threatening or fatal breathing problems (slow, shallow, unusual or no breathing) even when taken as recommended. These problems can occur at any time during use, but the risk is higher when first starting ABSTRAL and after a dose increase, if you are older, or have an existing problem with your lungs. Your doctor will monitor you and change the dose as appropriate.
Use of other medicines or alcohol while taking ABSTRAL
Taking ABSTRAL with other medicines that can make you feel drowsy such as sleeping tablets (e.g. benzodiazepines), other pain relievers, antihistamines, antidepressants, antipsychotics, gabapentinoids (e.g. gabapentin and pregabalin), cannabis and alcohol may result in severe drowsiness, decreased awareness, breathing problems, coma and death. Your doctor will minimise the dose and duration of use, and monitor you for signs and symptoms of breathing difficulties and sedation. You must not drink alcohol while taking ABSTRAL.

Thursday 2 March 2023

GE HealthCare Announces Completion of Phase I Subject Recruitment in Early Clinical Development Program for a First-of-its-Kind Macrocyclic Manganese-Based MRI Contrast Agent

Novel manganese-based macrocyclic Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) agent could offer an alternative to gadolinium-based agents
Manganese is a trace element naturally occurring in, and efficiently eliminated from, the human body
The clinical trial program demonstrates GE HealthCare’s commitment to innovation in contrast media and to building a portfolio of MRI imaging agents to address radiologists’ needs for their patients
CHALFONT ST GILES, England--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GE HealthCare has today announced, at the European Congress of Radiology (ECR) in Vienna, Austria, the completion of Phase I subject recruitment in its early clinical development program for a first-of-its-kind manganese-based macrocyclic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent. Typically, MRI agents – used to enhance visualization of abnormal structures or lesions and to aid differentiation between healthy and pathological tissue – are gadolinium-based.
This manganese-based agent could broaden GE HealthCare’s portfolio of MRI contrast agents available to radiologists, providing a potential alternative in light of perceived concerns relating to gadolinium retention. The macrocyclic, extra-cellular – or general-purpose – manganese-based contrast agent has comparable relaxivity - the ability of a contrast agent to enhance signal intensity during an MRI scan - and is expected to be diagnostically similar to current gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs). Unlike gadolinium, manganese is endogenous, meaning that it is a trace element that is naturally occurring in and efficiently eliminated from the body. Along with its magnetic properties, this makes a manganese-based agent a viable alternative to gadolinium. In addition, a non-gadolinium agent could help limit the potential impact of post-patient excreted gadolinium in the environment.
The clinical trial, based at the clinical research unit at the Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Norway, and overseen by Lead Investigator, Hasse K. Zaré, aims to investigate the safety profile and how this injectable manganese contrast agent is eliminated from the body in healthy volunteers. Previous manganese-based MRI agents have been reliant on a ‘free manganese’ release mechanism for their imaging efficacy. This novel investigational agent is tightly bound to the chelate, in a macrocyclic cage-like structure, so it is rapidly eliminated from - rather than actively released into - the body.
Dr Paul Evans, Head of Global R&D at GE HealthCare’s Pharmaceutical Diagnostics unit, said: “For many years we’ve been committed to investing in, and bringing to market, products to help solve some of radiology’s biggest challenges and unmet needs. This manganese-based MRI agent is one of a number of novel agents we have at various stages of development in our innovation pipeline, all of which aim to give practitioners more choice in delivering precision care for their patients.”
GE HealthCare’s Pharmaceutical Diagnostics unit is a global leader in imaging agents used to support around 100 million procedures per year globally, equivalent to three patient procedures every second. For more than 40 years, GE imaging agents have been routinely used across MRI, X-ray/CT and ultrasound to enhance clinical images and support diagnosis.

Wednesday 1 March 2023

Who Should Not Have an MRI?

MRI scans pose low levels of risk, but they are not for everyone. The intense magnetic field generated during the MRI could cause problems for those with metallic implants in their body. Have a conversation with your primary care provider about whether you should have an MRI if you have any of the following:

An IUD
Artificial joints
A pacemaker
Eye implants
Aneurysm clips
Shrapnel
Orthopedic hardware
Dark tattoos

These devices often contain iron-based metal and may be pulled from the body by the magnetics in the MRI. Pacemakers can malfunction. Aneurysm clips may dislodge, leading to fatal bleeding. Some dark tattoo ink is metallic, which could interact with the MRI’s magnet. If you have any implants constructed from titanium, you can have an MRI.

Ask your doctor which scan is right for you if you have heart or kidney problems and need contrast dye. The dye used, a gadolinium-based product, is well-tolerated by those allergic to iodine and shellfish.

Those with severe claustrophobia can still get an MRI. Ask if an open MRI is a good option for you or see if you can use a sedative to remain still during the scan. Being claustrophobic is not a reason to pass on a needed MRI.

Pregnant women have been able to have MRIs since the 1980s with no reports of harm to mothers or unborn children since then. Doctors, though, don’t know about how the magnets affect fetuses under four months of development. If you are pregnant, especially if you need a contrast agent for the scan, ask your doctor if the procedure can be put off until after the baby arrives. Unless an absolute necessity requires you to get an MRI with contrast while pregnant, try to avoid it.