Summary:
Recently, a few studies have shown that the bacteria levels in the intestines play a role in a humans ability to lose or gain weight. Many people lose weight by gastric bypasses, which shrink the stomach, and now are thought to have an impact on bacteria which has partial control on weight gain. This research will hope to contribute to weight loss without surgery by rearranging and removing certain microbes. Also, microbes control other things in the intestines which can get rid of illness. the study also showed that people who have air content high in the microbe Methanobrevibacter smithii are more likely to be overweight. They are still trying to figure out which microbe specifically causes weight gain.
Relevance:During this term, we have learned about the human body and the many different systems. We learned that in the digestive system, microbes are in the intestines in order to break down fats and sugars and to keep diseases out. This article shows that specific microbes have the genetic disposition for weight gain.
Link: http://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/28/health/studies-focus-on-gut-bacteria-in-weight-loss.html?ref=digestivetract
Monday, May 20, 2013
Stem-cell-based strategy boosts immune system in mice
Summary:
Researchers at the University of California in San Francisco have created the first working human thymus tissue in a laboratory. This tissue is used, by the body, to produce white blood cells, and more specifically, T-cells. White blood cells not only help keep your body healthy, but also can prevent harmful autoimmune diseases. This means that there soon might be new therapies for autoimmune diseases, like type-1 diabetes.
Relevance:
This article is relevant to our studies of the human body systems. This unit, the Human Body Systems III unit, we are studying the immune system. Here, these researchers created a working thymus tissue, which produces white blood cells. This also connects to out previous unit about the circulatory system. The thymus tissue produces white blood cells, which, we learned, are made in the bone marrow and are pumped from the heart through arteries, capillaries, and veins around the body.
Author: Not Given
Published: May 16, 2013
Link: http://www.biologynews.net/archives/2013/05/16/stemcellbased_strategy_boosts_immune_system_in_mice.html
Short-term stress may boost immune response
Summary: Even though most people believe that stress always damages a person’s health, studies have shown that short periods of stress area actually beneficial to the immune system. These studies are not about long period stress; it is known that long period stress can damage the immune system and even cause serious medical issues. The studies are about short periods of stress, like minutes or hours. In a study in 2009, blood samples were taken from patients before and after having knee surgery. The patients who had positive stress responses during the surgery recovered recovered about a week faster than those who had negative stress responses. Also, in a study by Dhabhar involving rats, injected hormones had the same effect on immune cells as the “stressed” rats had.
Connection: This connects to our studies about the human body systems; it especially connects to the immune system. Stress causes a change in hormones in a person’s body, and if the stress is for long periods of time, it can cause an imbalance of hormones. We learned that hormones are released by signals in the brain, and that hormones are transported through the bloodstream to stimulate certain cells. These long term hormonal responses can lead to disorders, such as Graves’ disease and obesity. However, the studies showed that short periods of stress which caused higher counts of immune cells in a person’s body helped them to heal quicker. Therefore, to help a person heal more quickly after an injury, scientists think that they can inject hormones (like the stress signals) into a person’s body. This is like tricking the brain to release these hormones.
Date Published: July 4, 2012
Link: http://www.sfgate.com/health/article/Short-term-stress-may-boost-immune-response-3684151.php
Allergy, asthma less frequent in foreign-born kids in U.S.
Summary: Scientists are finding that children who are spend their first few years of life in a country other than the US tend to have less cases of allergies and asthma than US-born kids. However, after an extended period of living in the US, the allergies can develop. The hypothesis put forward is that young children who are exposed to things such as dirt, animal dander, and other aspects of a grubby life end up developing an immune system that will detect disease-causing compounds from harmless ones. This way, the child does not have an overreacting immune response to harmless things like pollen or grasses. Foreign-born children also have a lower rate of things like asthma and fever, though this immunity can fade after living in the US for about 10 years. Though the reason for the increased protection from fevers and asthma is unclear, it is hypothesized that the diet of Americans and a lower rate of Vitamin D. When immigrants move to America their diet is not as good, and Vitamin D is solely dependent on the Sun, whereas they have supplements in their home countries.
Relevance: The reduced allergy and asthma rates are due to a more well-developed immune system that doesn't react violently to harmless particles. We learned in class about how the immune system defends against foreign particles.
Link: http://www.sciencenews.org/view/generic/id/350112/description/Allergy_asthma_less_frequent_in_foreign-born_kids_in_US
Insomnia May Triple Risk of Heart Failure
By Michael J. Breus
Link: http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/sleep-newzzz/201305/insomnia-may-triple-risk-heart-failure
Summary:
Researches in Norway created at large-scale investigation on the relationship between insomnia and heart failure, having over 50.000 people ages 20-89 with no evident symptoms of heart failure record data, focusing on those who had difficulty sleeping, difficulty staying asleep, and those who felt unrested in the morning. Researchers found 1,400 people developing heart disease, and around the uncontrolled factors, found that any of the three symptoms of insomnia increased the risk of heart failure, and all three symptoms can triple the risk. Poor sleep is also linked to higher blood pressure. Lack of sleep is associated with calcium build up in the arteries, and inflammation and dysfunction in the nervous system. Further research is needed to find the root of the relationship between sleep problems and cardiovascular disease.
Connection:
In class we have discussed how higher blood pressure and buildup of calcium in the arteries leads to clotting, and eventually cardiovascular disease. This can then lead to different forms of heart disease. Resting the body and allowing it to fully recharge helps the body recuperate, and keeps calcium and blood clots from forming. Lack of sleep also playing a part in the inflammation and dysfunction of the nervous system also relates to class discussion, as when the nervous system becomes dysfunctional the body's response and overall movement becomes slower as a result.
Link: http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/sleep-newzzz/201305/insomnia-may-triple-risk-heart-failure
Summary:
Researches in Norway created at large-scale investigation on the relationship between insomnia and heart failure, having over 50.000 people ages 20-89 with no evident symptoms of heart failure record data, focusing on those who had difficulty sleeping, difficulty staying asleep, and those who felt unrested in the morning. Researchers found 1,400 people developing heart disease, and around the uncontrolled factors, found that any of the three symptoms of insomnia increased the risk of heart failure, and all three symptoms can triple the risk. Poor sleep is also linked to higher blood pressure. Lack of sleep is associated with calcium build up in the arteries, and inflammation and dysfunction in the nervous system. Further research is needed to find the root of the relationship between sleep problems and cardiovascular disease.
Connection:
In class we have discussed how higher blood pressure and buildup of calcium in the arteries leads to clotting, and eventually cardiovascular disease. This can then lead to different forms of heart disease. Resting the body and allowing it to fully recharge helps the body recuperate, and keeps calcium and blood clots from forming. Lack of sleep also playing a part in the inflammation and dysfunction of the nervous system also relates to class discussion, as when the nervous system becomes dysfunctional the body's response and overall movement becomes slower as a result.
Smoking Both Marijuana and Tobacco Greatly Increases Risk of COPD
Summary:
In this article, the growing popularity of legalizing marijuana in the US is shown. Even the most conservatives estimate that marijuana will be legalized within the next 10 years because of its economic potential, and the cost to control it's use isn't worth it. COPD is a disease of the lungs and narrow airways with no cure. Most cases of COPD are caused by smoking cigarettes for long periods of time. Research has shown that smoking marijuana alone doesn't increase the risk of COPD, but by smoking marijuana and cigarettes, the risk of COPD is nearly tripled. It is believed that marijuana makes the lungs more sensitive to the effects of cigarettes, so people should not mix the two substances.
Connection:
During the last unit we studied how the respiratory system works. We discussed how smoking can damage the lungs. In this article, the effects of smoking cigarettes is shown, and it is explained how adding marijuana to cigarette use is extremely dangerous and harmful to the lungs and respiratory system and could cause COPD. COPD involves the narrowing of the airways which prevents the flow of oxygen into the lungs and carbon dioxide out of the lungs causing less efficient breathing. Also, since COPD involves diseased lungs, that means that less air can diffuse in and out of the bloodstream.
http://www.examiner.com/article/the-health-risk-of-smoking-weed-and-cigarettes-what-every-toker-should-know
In this article, the growing popularity of legalizing marijuana in the US is shown. Even the most conservatives estimate that marijuana will be legalized within the next 10 years because of its economic potential, and the cost to control it's use isn't worth it. COPD is a disease of the lungs and narrow airways with no cure. Most cases of COPD are caused by smoking cigarettes for long periods of time. Research has shown that smoking marijuana alone doesn't increase the risk of COPD, but by smoking marijuana and cigarettes, the risk of COPD is nearly tripled. It is believed that marijuana makes the lungs more sensitive to the effects of cigarettes, so people should not mix the two substances.
Connection:
During the last unit we studied how the respiratory system works. We discussed how smoking can damage the lungs. In this article, the effects of smoking cigarettes is shown, and it is explained how adding marijuana to cigarette use is extremely dangerous and harmful to the lungs and respiratory system and could cause COPD. COPD involves the narrowing of the airways which prevents the flow of oxygen into the lungs and carbon dioxide out of the lungs causing less efficient breathing. Also, since COPD involves diseased lungs, that means that less air can diffuse in and out of the bloodstream.
http://www.examiner.com/article/the-health-risk-of-smoking-weed-and-cigarettes-what-every-toker-should-know
Sunday, May 19, 2013
Benefits of Salt Reduction
Summary:
A new report has shown that salt consumption has shown a strong link to a factor that could cause heart disease. Cardiovascular disease can be caused by large consumption of salt. Doctors have been recommending Americans to contain less salt in their diets. The amount of salt Americans eat average are more than double the amount that is recommended to maintain good health.
Relevance:
This report relates to our studies because the reduction of salt consumption reduces the risk for a heart attack. Heart attacks were studied in the circulatory system. The less salt consumed is also healthier for those with high blood pressure, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease. The recommended amount of salt is to help the body remain healthy, to keep homeostasis.
http://thechart.blogs.cnn.com/2013/05/14/report-questions-benefits-of-salt-reduction/
A new report has shown that salt consumption has shown a strong link to a factor that could cause heart disease. Cardiovascular disease can be caused by large consumption of salt. Doctors have been recommending Americans to contain less salt in their diets. The amount of salt Americans eat average are more than double the amount that is recommended to maintain good health.
Relevance:
This report relates to our studies because the reduction of salt consumption reduces the risk for a heart attack. Heart attacks were studied in the circulatory system. The less salt consumed is also healthier for those with high blood pressure, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease. The recommended amount of salt is to help the body remain healthy, to keep homeostasis.
http://thechart.blogs.cnn.com/2013/05/14/report-questions-benefits-of-salt-reduction/
How Our Bodies Interact With Our Minds in Response to Fear and Other Emotions
Summary:
This article links part of the brain to the heart that processes fear. Researchers have been recently looking into how the brain interacts with the other organs in its functions. They have discovered that your heart affects how your brain processes fear. Basically what they have found is whenever your heart is in systole, not relaxed state, and you something scary, you are going to be more scared than if you saw the same thing when your heart was in diastole, relaxed state. They used an MRI in order to view the brain during these tests and saw how a certain part of the brain was causing the change in its perception of fear according to the heart. An application researchers have thought for this is in therapeutic treatment for post traumatic stress disorder.
Connection:
In class we have talked about the brain, the different parts of their brains and how each of them serves us. We also talked about the connection between the different body systems and how they affect each other, such as how the circulatory system is connected to the respiratory system. This article shows a connection between the circulatory and neural system.
Source:
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/04/130407211558.htm
This article links part of the brain to the heart that processes fear. Researchers have been recently looking into how the brain interacts with the other organs in its functions. They have discovered that your heart affects how your brain processes fear. Basically what they have found is whenever your heart is in systole, not relaxed state, and you something scary, you are going to be more scared than if you saw the same thing when your heart was in diastole, relaxed state. They used an MRI in order to view the brain during these tests and saw how a certain part of the brain was causing the change in its perception of fear according to the heart. An application researchers have thought for this is in therapeutic treatment for post traumatic stress disorder.
Connection:
In class we have talked about the brain, the different parts of their brains and how each of them serves us. We also talked about the connection between the different body systems and how they affect each other, such as how the circulatory system is connected to the respiratory system. This article shows a connection between the circulatory and neural system.
Source:
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/04/130407211558.htm
Project to map to the human brain
Summary:
The Human Genome Project was a project where scientists mapped to exact gene sequence of the entire human genome. This was a huge endeavor, but it led to a huge understanding of the human genome that we then used in modern medical science. President Obama has recently released a plan to create a new project similar to this, mapping the brain instead of the genome. The hope is that the understanding of the brain will help us both to create better artificial intelligence and the find cures to neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's.
Relevance:
This news is relevant because we have been studying the nervous system, which this project directly addresses. It hopes to get a better understanding of the brain, a major part of said system which we studied the known parts of in some detail. It also is in an attempt to stop diseases such as Alzheimer's, a disease that was talked about in a group presentation in class.
The Human Genome Project was a project where scientists mapped to exact gene sequence of the entire human genome. This was a huge endeavor, but it led to a huge understanding of the human genome that we then used in modern medical science. President Obama has recently released a plan to create a new project similar to this, mapping the brain instead of the genome. The hope is that the understanding of the brain will help us both to create better artificial intelligence and the find cures to neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's.
Relevance:
This news is relevant because we have been studying the nervous system, which this project directly addresses. It hopes to get a better understanding of the brain, a major part of said system which we studied the known parts of in some detail. It also is in an attempt to stop diseases such as Alzheimer's, a disease that was talked about in a group presentation in class.
By Erik Viggh
May 19 2013
New Cancer Drugs Harness Power of Immune System
Summary:
New drugs have been found that may help the immune system in fighting against cancer. Some of these work better when used simultaneously rather than by themselves. The immune system does not see cancer cells as bad, therefore these cells are not fought off. These drugs help the immune system realize how bad these cells really are. The drugs have possible side effects, but it seems they are all curable. Only a fraction of tested patients have responded and benefited from the treatment, but those who have have survived several years longer. This treatment treats the immune system and not the cancer directly.
Relevance:
We will be learning about the immune system and how it fights off harmful things to keep us healthy. A few of the class presentations have been about cancer.
By Ron Winslow
May 15,2013
Brain stimulation promises 'long-lasting' math boosts
BBC News http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-22556735
Posted 16 May 2013
Keelin McCarthy
Recent studies have looked at a new method of brain stimulation that makes neurons function more efficiently. Transcranial random noise stimulation-or TRNS-is performed by using electrodes on the surface of the scalp to apply random electrical noise to certain areas of the brain. This new technique can be used to help those with learning difficulties, strokes and neurodegenerative illnesses. In a study at Oxford University, researchers compared the math skills of those who had TRNS and those who did not. They computed simple equations like 32-17+5=20. There were no immediate differences but when they were brought back for follow ups 6 months later, noticeable improvements were found in the subjects who had TRNS. Researchers then concluded that TRNS improved the speed at which affected areas of the brain used their supplies of oxygen and nutrients.
We are currently studying the human body including the brain. The brain requires oxygen and blood to carry out its countless tasks and responsibilities. TRNS increases neuron's efficiency, specifically by them using oxygen and nutrients. Increasing a neuron's efficiency has proven to be beneficial, not only for increasing math skills but the potential to help those with strokes and other neurodegenerative diseases. Overall this new treatment shows potential to become a functioning and useful treatment.
BBC News http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-22556735
Posted 16 May 2013
Keelin McCarthy
Recent studies have looked at a new method of brain stimulation that makes neurons function more efficiently. Transcranial random noise stimulation-or TRNS-is performed by using electrodes on the surface of the scalp to apply random electrical noise to certain areas of the brain. This new technique can be used to help those with learning difficulties, strokes and neurodegenerative illnesses. In a study at Oxford University, researchers compared the math skills of those who had TRNS and those who did not. They computed simple equations like 32-17+5=20. There were no immediate differences but when they were brought back for follow ups 6 months later, noticeable improvements were found in the subjects who had TRNS. Researchers then concluded that TRNS improved the speed at which affected areas of the brain used their supplies of oxygen and nutrients.
We are currently studying the human body including the brain. The brain requires oxygen and blood to carry out its countless tasks and responsibilities. TRNS increases neuron's efficiency, specifically by them using oxygen and nutrients. Increasing a neuron's efficiency has proven to be beneficial, not only for increasing math skills but the potential to help those with strokes and other neurodegenerative diseases. Overall this new treatment shows potential to become a functioning and useful treatment.
New Discovery On How Cells Protect The Nervous System
Summary
Whenever an injury or infection occurs to the nervous system, cells called microglia charge to defend the said infection or injury. Microglia ingest pathogens and damaged nerve cells. These cells wait for something bad to happen in the nervous system like an infection. They have a small cell body with long projections protruding from the body, and when a pathogen is detected, the projections curl into the cell body and morph into a much larger cell. Although microglia destroy infection, they also have potential to attack healthy cells. It turns out that when microglia are growing alongside a developing brain, they are already an early form of a fighting cell and already have the ability to destroy pathogen and debris of dead cells. After birth and when the nervous system is starting to develop more, the microglia are deactivated as fighters and change to the watchmen that protect the nervous system. When there is an injury, they will change back to the cells protecting the nervous system.
Relevance
We have learned that the nervous system is a very important body system because it regulates heart beat and other bodily functions as well as allowing the body to communicate with itself. Although we have not learned about it yet, the microglia are part of the immune system as well, which protect the body from infections.
Link
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/10/121016141738.htm
Whenever an injury or infection occurs to the nervous system, cells called microglia charge to defend the said infection or injury. Microglia ingest pathogens and damaged nerve cells. These cells wait for something bad to happen in the nervous system like an infection. They have a small cell body with long projections protruding from the body, and when a pathogen is detected, the projections curl into the cell body and morph into a much larger cell. Although microglia destroy infection, they also have potential to attack healthy cells. It turns out that when microglia are growing alongside a developing brain, they are already an early form of a fighting cell and already have the ability to destroy pathogen and debris of dead cells. After birth and when the nervous system is starting to develop more, the microglia are deactivated as fighters and change to the watchmen that protect the nervous system. When there is an injury, they will change back to the cells protecting the nervous system.
Relevance
We have learned that the nervous system is a very important body system because it regulates heart beat and other bodily functions as well as allowing the body to communicate with itself. Although we have not learned about it yet, the microglia are part of the immune system as well, which protect the body from infections.
Link
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/10/121016141738.htm
The Marvels in Your Mouth
In this article, the narrater tells his story about how he ate sillicon. Dr. Van Der Bilt, is an oral physiologist. This means that he studies the way people chew. According to him, the way a person chews is related to the way someone walks. Therefore, there are many types of ways one chews. He also studies other parts of the mouth, including saliva, tongue, lips and cheeks. All of these parts work togather to make the bolus.
This is related to what we are studying, since i has to do with the digestion of food in the body. The mouth is the first part of digestion in the body. At first mechanical digestion breaks down the food into smaller peices. The part of the mouth that does mechanical digestion are the teeth. After the teath break the food down into smaller peices, chemical digestion further breaks down the carbohydrates in the food. Amylace, found in the saliva, is what performs chemical digestion in the mouth.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/26/health/mary-roach-on-studying-food-and-how-humans-eat-it.html?pagewanted=2&_r=0&adxnnl=1&ref=digestivetract&adxnnlx=1368983078-i5NqjNyTifCBCFV2qKgHYQ
This is related to what we are studying, since i has to do with the digestion of food in the body. The mouth is the first part of digestion in the body. At first mechanical digestion breaks down the food into smaller peices. The part of the mouth that does mechanical digestion are the teeth. After the teath break the food down into smaller peices, chemical digestion further breaks down the carbohydrates in the food. Amylace, found in the saliva, is what performs chemical digestion in the mouth.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/26/health/mary-roach-on-studying-food-and-how-humans-eat-it.html?pagewanted=2&_r=0&adxnnl=1&ref=digestivetract&adxnnlx=1368983078-i5NqjNyTifCBCFV2qKgHYQ
New found Correlation between Electro-stimulation
and Mathematical Aptitude
Participants in this pioneering study divided into 2 groups to determine the effect that carefully located electro-stimulations, which are too subtle to cause pain, would have on the capacity to solve mundane math problems, (E.G.: 32-17+5). Both groupings attended sessions in which they solved such expressions for accuracy and speed. The effects of the stimulation "improved" the arithmetic of the participants; a limited number of participants returned to demonstrate retained, improved functioning, in this regard, 5 months later. The article concluded by alluding to the necessity of proper placement and level of strength as factors regarding the safety and pertinence of the technologies to evaluating mathematical performance.
Connection:
Mainly, the article pertains to the neuro-biology unit. Specifically, it correlates to neurological signaling, a component of the curriculum that was addressed by Mr. Matthieu, being manipulated experimentally. Lastly, it refers to areas of the prefrontal cortex in a manner that validates the conception of the region as it was taught in class.
Outdoor Heat Increases Respiratory Hospitalization Risk in Elderly
Summary: In new studies, evidence of outdoor heat exposure increases the risk of COPD and respiratory system infections in the elderly. The study was based on data of emergency respiratory hospitalizations of people 65 or older from 1999-2008, along with weather and pollution measurements. The study found that for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit increase, there was a 4.3% increase in respiratory hospitalizations. Similarly, COPD hospitalizations increased by 4.7% and they were typically higher in mild countries. The reasons why this is the case isn't fully known according to the articles content, but senior author Dr. Roger D. Peng, associate professor in the Department of Biostatistics at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, is very sure that there is a correlation. "Our study provides clear and consistent evidence of a link between outdoor heat and hospitalization for respiratory disease in the elderly. As the prevalence of respiratory conditions and the age of the population continue to increase and global temperatures continue to rise as a result of climate change, the risk of heat-related respiratory disease is also likely to increase."
Relevance: In class, we learned about the respiratory system. We learned about COPD and how COPD makes it harder to breathe. This article relates to our class because it relates to the pathological diseases we learned in class. Chronic Bronchitis and Emphysema are two forms of COPD, which is a subject of this article. COPD diseases narrow the airways of the lungs, making it harder to breathe. These airways are primarily the bronchi and the bronchioles. The narrowing of these airways limits air flow to the alveoli, reducing the efficiency of gas exchange.
No author
March 8 2013
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/03/130308093429.htm
Relevance: In class, we learned about the respiratory system. We learned about COPD and how COPD makes it harder to breathe. This article relates to our class because it relates to the pathological diseases we learned in class. Chronic Bronchitis and Emphysema are two forms of COPD, which is a subject of this article. COPD diseases narrow the airways of the lungs, making it harder to breathe. These airways are primarily the bronchi and the bronchioles. The narrowing of these airways limits air flow to the alveoli, reducing the efficiency of gas exchange.
No author
March 8 2013
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/03/130308093429.htm
Fight or Flight in Depth and Detail
Article:
http://science.howstuffworks.com/life/fear2.htm
Summary: Fight or flight is coordinated by the hypothalamus, the sympathetic nervous system, and the adrenal-cortical system (in bloodstream). The overall effect of fight or flight is extreme alertness. The sympathetic nervous system sends impulses to the adrenal medulla. This releases adrenaline and noradrenaline into the bloodstream. These increase heart rate and blood pressure. The hypothalamus also releases CRF into the pituitary gland, which activates the adrenal-cortical system. It also releases ATCH which triggers the adrenal cortex to release many hormones. There is a long list of side effects which include dilated pupils, increased blood-glucose levels, muscles tense up due to surge of adrenaline and glucose (goosebumps), smooth muscle relaxes to conserve oxygen which includes digestive and immune system. All side effects are geared towards increased speed, strength, and alertness.
Relevance: This article directly relates to our current curriculum. We are learning how the digestive, immune, circulatory system and nervous systems work. We learned briefly about the fight or flight, and about the sympathetic nervous system (it is involuntary and responsible for homeostasis). We also learned about the endocrine system and hormones, and the pituitary gland, mentioned in the article, plays a major role in endocrine.
http://science.howstuffworks.com/life/fear2.htm
Summary: Fight or flight is coordinated by the hypothalamus, the sympathetic nervous system, and the adrenal-cortical system (in bloodstream). The overall effect of fight or flight is extreme alertness. The sympathetic nervous system sends impulses to the adrenal medulla. This releases adrenaline and noradrenaline into the bloodstream. These increase heart rate and blood pressure. The hypothalamus also releases CRF into the pituitary gland, which activates the adrenal-cortical system. It also releases ATCH which triggers the adrenal cortex to release many hormones. There is a long list of side effects which include dilated pupils, increased blood-glucose levels, muscles tense up due to surge of adrenaline and glucose (goosebumps), smooth muscle relaxes to conserve oxygen which includes digestive and immune system. All side effects are geared towards increased speed, strength, and alertness.
Relevance: This article directly relates to our current curriculum. We are learning how the digestive, immune, circulatory system and nervous systems work. We learned briefly about the fight or flight, and about the sympathetic nervous system (it is involuntary and responsible for homeostasis). We also learned about the endocrine system and hormones, and the pituitary gland, mentioned in the article, plays a major role in endocrine.
Friday, May 17, 2013
Faulty Energy Production in Brain Cells Leads to Disorders Ranging from Parkinson's to Intellectual Disability
No Author
May 16, 2013
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/05/130516123804.htm
Summary: Dysfunctional mitochondria in brain cells has been to shown to lead to learning disabilities by Patrik Verstreken, Dominik Haddad, and Vanessa Morais, neuroscientists at VIB (Flanders Institute for Biotechnology) and KU Leuven. Although the link between dysfunctional mitochondria and Parkinson's disease is known, the new research shows that it is also present in other brain disorders. Well-functioning mitochondria are essential for a healthy brain as they provide the energy needed for communication between brain cells. This is crucial for transmitting stimuli and signals, and thus for optimal functioning of the body. When dysfunctional mitochondria are not efficiently discarded from the cell, the operation of other healthy mitochondria is complicated, eventually leading to insufficient energy production in the cell. The researchers have discovered the mechanism by which brain cells trigger the destruction of dysfunctional mitochondria. Communication between brain cells is reestablished once the mechanism is triggered. The mechanism defect in Parkinson's and other diseases indicate the wider importance of mitochondria for optimal functioning of human brains.
Relevance: In our study of human systems, we learned about the nervous system. The nervous system's role in homeostatic function is to take in, process, and respond to stimuli. The functional units of the nervous system are neurons. As demonstrated in this article, the neurons will not be able to transmit stimuli and signals because of dysfunctional mitochondria that cannot provide energy for the cells. Because there will be limited cells communicating and connecting with each other, there will be limited synapses. Thus, action potentials will not release neurotransmitters, and the system will not be able to process the potentials. Finally, the motor division of the nervous system cannot carry out the CNS's response messages to muscle or gland cells.
May 16, 2013
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/05/130516123804.htm
Summary: Dysfunctional mitochondria in brain cells has been to shown to lead to learning disabilities by Patrik Verstreken, Dominik Haddad, and Vanessa Morais, neuroscientists at VIB (Flanders Institute for Biotechnology) and KU Leuven. Although the link between dysfunctional mitochondria and Parkinson's disease is known, the new research shows that it is also present in other brain disorders. Well-functioning mitochondria are essential for a healthy brain as they provide the energy needed for communication between brain cells. This is crucial for transmitting stimuli and signals, and thus for optimal functioning of the body. When dysfunctional mitochondria are not efficiently discarded from the cell, the operation of other healthy mitochondria is complicated, eventually leading to insufficient energy production in the cell. The researchers have discovered the mechanism by which brain cells trigger the destruction of dysfunctional mitochondria. Communication between brain cells is reestablished once the mechanism is triggered. The mechanism defect in Parkinson's and other diseases indicate the wider importance of mitochondria for optimal functioning of human brains.
Relevance: In our study of human systems, we learned about the nervous system. The nervous system's role in homeostatic function is to take in, process, and respond to stimuli. The functional units of the nervous system are neurons. As demonstrated in this article, the neurons will not be able to transmit stimuli and signals because of dysfunctional mitochondria that cannot provide energy for the cells. Because there will be limited cells communicating and connecting with each other, there will be limited synapses. Thus, action potentials will not release neurotransmitters, and the system will not be able to process the potentials. Finally, the motor division of the nervous system cannot carry out the CNS's response messages to muscle or gland cells.
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Chickens with Bigger Gizzards are More Efficient
Scientists from the French National Institute for Agricultural Research have been doing research on poultry production. They bred chickens to find out if larger digestive organs such as the proventriculus and the gizzard, would help to reduce the amount of wastes secreted by the chickens. The gizzard is an organ with thick muscular walls used to help break down food through mechanical digestion, while the proventriculus is a stomach-like organ with many acids and enzymes that break down food through chemical digestion. The researchers bred nine generations of chickens selecting for larger digestive organs, and discovered that chickens that had these larger organs ate less feed and produced less waste. This discovery will help to make poultry production more efficient and save money on chicken feed, as well as reduce the amount of pollutants released into the environment from chicken waste.
This article relates to the biology curriculum because it is based on the digestive system, which we learned about in class. For example, we talked about gizzards being present in some birds and other organisms, but not in humans. It is similar to human teeth in the digestive system, which also break down food with mechanical digestion. The proventriculus is like the human stomach which we studied, since it contains an acidic environment used for chemical digestion. Also, we learned that the more food is broken down, the more nutrients are absorbed into the small intestine. The undigested food continues into the large intestine and is excreted, which relates to the article since some chickens can digest food better than others, and subsequently produce less waste. Lastly, the study relates to earlier in the year, about selective breeding. The chickens with larger digestive organs are selected for, since they have an advantage of digesting more food, which helps poultry production become more efficient.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/04/130411110255.htm
This article relates to the biology curriculum because it is based on the digestive system, which we learned about in class. For example, we talked about gizzards being present in some birds and other organisms, but not in humans. It is similar to human teeth in the digestive system, which also break down food with mechanical digestion. The proventriculus is like the human stomach which we studied, since it contains an acidic environment used for chemical digestion. Also, we learned that the more food is broken down, the more nutrients are absorbed into the small intestine. The undigested food continues into the large intestine and is excreted, which relates to the article since some chickens can digest food better than others, and subsequently produce less waste. Lastly, the study relates to earlier in the year, about selective breeding. The chickens with larger digestive organs are selected for, since they have an advantage of digesting more food, which helps poultry production become more efficient.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/04/130411110255.htm
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Study Finds Brain System for Emotional Self Control
Summary:
A recent study published by Brain Structure and Function showed that there are two separate areas of the brain for hiding emotions and for showing emotions. Participants in this study were each shown a scary picture and were told to either hide their emotion or strongly react to the photo. The study showed that those hid their emotions were using the dorso-medial prefrontal area of the brain to perform this restraint. This is the same area of the brain that inhibits motion, showing that these two inhibitions may be linked. This information is significant to those involved in therapy. Studying this area of the brain may highlight whether someone is overly emotional or does not feel emotions, and thus provide help for those in need of it.
Connection:
In class we have been learning about the nervous system and the roles of different areas of the brain.The central nervous system consists of the brain and the spinal chord and directs and coordinates the functions of the body. The peripheral nervous system sends messages to the central nervous system. In the central nervous system the brain is divided into several areas that each perform their own function, just as the dorso-medial area suppresses emotion. The cerebrum directs activity, while the cerebellum coordinates body movement. Similarly, hypothalamus control temperature, the brain stem regulates heartbeat, and the thalamus sorts information. Signals are sent to these areas of the brain such as the dorso-medial through neurons.
Source: Biology News
Link: http://www.biologynews.net/archives/2013/05/11/study_finds_brain_system_for_emotional_selfcontrol.html
Author: R. Waldron
A recent study published by Brain Structure and Function showed that there are two separate areas of the brain for hiding emotions and for showing emotions. Participants in this study were each shown a scary picture and were told to either hide their emotion or strongly react to the photo. The study showed that those hid their emotions were using the dorso-medial prefrontal area of the brain to perform this restraint. This is the same area of the brain that inhibits motion, showing that these two inhibitions may be linked. This information is significant to those involved in therapy. Studying this area of the brain may highlight whether someone is overly emotional or does not feel emotions, and thus provide help for those in need of it.
Connection:
In class we have been learning about the nervous system and the roles of different areas of the brain.The central nervous system consists of the brain and the spinal chord and directs and coordinates the functions of the body. The peripheral nervous system sends messages to the central nervous system. In the central nervous system the brain is divided into several areas that each perform their own function, just as the dorso-medial area suppresses emotion. The cerebrum directs activity, while the cerebellum coordinates body movement. Similarly, hypothalamus control temperature, the brain stem regulates heartbeat, and the thalamus sorts information. Signals are sent to these areas of the brain such as the dorso-medial through neurons.
Source: Biology News
Link: http://www.biologynews.net/archives/2013/05/11/study_finds_brain_system_for_emotional_selfcontrol.html
Author: R. Waldron
Brain Frontal Lobes Not Sole Center of Intelligence
Brain Frontal Lobes Not Sole Center of Human Intelligence, Comparative Research Suggests
Summary: Recent research shows that the frontal lobe is not the only source of intelligence, and that other areas of the brain are just as important. Originally, larger frontal lobes were associated with higher intelligence in different species and that the larger lobes were what made humans different. This was also proved false as the size of an animal brain's frontal lobe is proportional to the size of that of humans. This information was suspected by scientists previously, but was further validated in this experiment conducted by Durham and Reading universities. The cerebellum has been suggested to have a larger role in intelligence and the evolution and development of the brain. Also it has been suggested that damage to the cerebellum can cause diseases such as autism and dyslexia.Relevance: In the Humans 1 unit of our curriculum, we studied the nervous system. The brain is part of the central nervous system, and processes information. We also studied the different lobes of the brain, one being the frontal lobe, which is discussed in this article. We learned that the cerebrum is the site of processing information, and this article discusses superior cognitive abilities in humans, to which the cerebrum is an important contributor.
No author given
Published: May 13, 2013
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/05/130513152827.htm
Monday, May 13, 2013
Pet Owners May Have Lower Risk For Heart Disease
Summary
According to a study by the American Heart Association (AHA), people who own pets have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, if they have no preexisting condition. One reason may be the added exercise. Dog owners must walk their dogs, and the added activity reduces stress, lowers cholesterol, and lowers blood pressure. All of these are contributing factors to heart disease. Another possible reason for the benefit owning a pet may have on your health is the comfort and companionship. The presence and company of a cat or dog lowers anxiety and stress hormones (such as epinephrine), as well as lowering blood pressure. More research will be needed to determine the effects of pets on people who are already suffering from cardiovascular disease.
Relevance
This article concerns cardiovascular disease, which we covered while studying the circulatory system. We learned that risk factors included stress, high blood pressure, and cholesterol, among other things. This article explains how these factors can be reduced by owning a pet.
Source: http://www.forbes.com/sites/robertglatter/2013/05/11/pet-owners-may-have-lower-risk-for-heart-disease/
Posted: 5/11/13
Author: Robert Glatter, MD
According to a study by the American Heart Association (AHA), people who own pets have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, if they have no preexisting condition. One reason may be the added exercise. Dog owners must walk their dogs, and the added activity reduces stress, lowers cholesterol, and lowers blood pressure. All of these are contributing factors to heart disease. Another possible reason for the benefit owning a pet may have on your health is the comfort and companionship. The presence and company of a cat or dog lowers anxiety and stress hormones (such as epinephrine), as well as lowering blood pressure. More research will be needed to determine the effects of pets on people who are already suffering from cardiovascular disease.
Relevance
This article concerns cardiovascular disease, which we covered while studying the circulatory system. We learned that risk factors included stress, high blood pressure, and cholesterol, among other things. This article explains how these factors can be reduced by owning a pet.
Source: http://www.forbes.com/sites/robertglatter/2013/05/11/pet-owners-may-have-lower-risk-for-heart-disease/
Posted: 5/11/13
Author: Robert Glatter, MD
Potential treatment for Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, dementia discovered
Summary
Altzheimer's disease is a progressive disease that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior. No perfect cure has been discovered yet, but scientists are still looking and they have come to the conclusion that the key to slowing down the disease is to clean up the debris that builds up inside the head. Scientists have successfully used the drug nilotinib to eliminate abnormal protein build-up in the brains of mice. Nilotinib is a drug that was originally used for leukemia to stop the production of harmful chemicals, and it has been shown that in extremely small dosages, it is effective against the harmful proteins (especially tau) found in patients with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's
. Testing has shown that the mice treated with the drug had an improvement in cognitive and motor functions, and they also lived longer that the control mice.
Their primary hope is for the drug to work against Lewy Body dementia, which is when one develops Alzheimer's and Parkinson's at the same time.
Relevance
This is related to the nervous system that we learned in class. Because the nervous system is in charge of taking in, processing, and responding to stimuli, it is crucial that there are no major problems with the system. Alzheimer's disease entails the growth of plaques and tangles which interfere with nerve cell communication and therefore,these cells die and the brain shrinks. It also keeps nerve cells from functioning regularly, and this is a major problem because it then interferes with synapse, or sending a nerve impulse from one cell to another, thus presenting that problem with homeostasis.
Source: http://www.foxnews.com/health/2013/05/09/potential-treatment-for-parkinsons-alzheimers-dementia-discovered/
Posted: May 10, 2013
Author: Amanda Woerner
Altzheimer's disease is a progressive disease that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior. No perfect cure has been discovered yet, but scientists are still looking and they have come to the conclusion that the key to slowing down the disease is to clean up the debris that builds up inside the head. Scientists have successfully used the drug nilotinib to eliminate abnormal protein build-up in the brains of mice. Nilotinib is a drug that was originally used for leukemia to stop the production of harmful chemicals, and it has been shown that in extremely small dosages, it is effective against the harmful proteins (especially tau) found in patients with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's
. Testing has shown that the mice treated with the drug had an improvement in cognitive and motor functions, and they also lived longer that the control mice.
Their primary hope is for the drug to work against Lewy Body dementia, which is when one develops Alzheimer's and Parkinson's at the same time.
Relevance
This is related to the nervous system that we learned in class. Because the nervous system is in charge of taking in, processing, and responding to stimuli, it is crucial that there are no major problems with the system. Alzheimer's disease entails the growth of plaques and tangles which interfere with nerve cell communication and therefore,these cells die and the brain shrinks. It also keeps nerve cells from functioning regularly, and this is a major problem because it then interferes with synapse, or sending a nerve impulse from one cell to another, thus presenting that problem with homeostasis.
Source: http://www.foxnews.com/health/2013/05/09/potential-treatment-for-parkinsons-alzheimers-dementia-discovered/
Posted: May 10, 2013
Author: Amanda Woerner
Printable 'bionic' ear melds electronics and biology
Researchers at Princeton University have recently created a bionic ear using an off-the-shelf 3D printer. They used cell culture to print the ear, and embedded a copper coil inside the ear, enabling the ear to "listen" to radio frequencies. The technique they used is a new one that may be a new breakthrough in plastic and other re-constructional surgeries, because ear reconstruction has been regarded as one of the hardest problems in these fields. Older techniques involved creating an ear-shaped scaffolding, and depositing cell culture around the scaffolding. This new technique involves printing calf cells (which later turn into cartilage) onto a bare minimum scaffolding made of hydrogel.
Another reason the technique is a breakthrough is that instead of a prosthetic, for the first time, researchers have combined electronics and cells to create a living, electronic appendage. Usually, electronics aren't compatible with the materials that are used by and are byproducts of cells. The researchers avoided this problem by embedding the coil of wire in the hydrogel. The coil currently only detects radio waves, but the team of researchers states that they plan to create future versions that sense sound.
Relevance:
The parts I found most related to a few of our units in biology were the electronics in the ear. The electronics in the ear are connected to electrodes in the brain. Signals from the coil are connected directly to the nervous system, implying that nerves can receive an electrical input from a machine without requiring additional processing. We studied the nervous system as part of our first Human Systems unit, and this device involves replacing natural receptors with electronic/artificial ones, and passing the signals on to neurons.
Source: http://www.princeton.edu/main/news/archive/S36/80/19M40/index.xml?section=topstories
Another reason the technique is a breakthrough is that instead of a prosthetic, for the first time, researchers have combined electronics and cells to create a living, electronic appendage. Usually, electronics aren't compatible with the materials that are used by and are byproducts of cells. The researchers avoided this problem by embedding the coil of wire in the hydrogel. The coil currently only detects radio waves, but the team of researchers states that they plan to create future versions that sense sound.
Relevance:
The parts I found most related to a few of our units in biology were the electronics in the ear. The electronics in the ear are connected to electrodes in the brain. Signals from the coil are connected directly to the nervous system, implying that nerves can receive an electrical input from a machine without requiring additional processing. We studied the nervous system as part of our first Human Systems unit, and this device involves replacing natural receptors with electronic/artificial ones, and passing the signals on to neurons.
Source: http://www.princeton.edu/main/news/archive/S36/80/19M40/index.xml?section=topstories
Heart Repair Breakthroughs Replace a Surgeon's Knife
Summary: With modern medicine changing by the day, further discoveries are being made. Scientists have recently found various methods to help patients suffering from cardiac issues without having to undergo invasive surgery. Many surgeons will now use tiny tubes tools and devices that are pushed through blood vessels. Ailments that could only be cured by surgery such as poor heart valves, heart rhythm problems, heart defects, clogged arteries, and high blood pressure can now be fixed with this technology. The whole operation relies on the hollow tubes, called catheters, which allow doctors get into the heart, reshape the heart's tissue, and correct defects through small holes in blood vessels. Instead of opening the chest, catheters are now being put into blood vessels either in the leg or arm. This new alternative to invasive heart surgery allows patients to have a much faster recovery time. Instead of having a large gash having to heal, patients will have their catheters taken out and have a one or two day recovery period in the hospital until being sent home. This new method is also rumored to be more inexpensive than surgery by eliminating the cost of housing patients for lengthier rehabilitation times. This new discovery may even help the frail elderly to receive the cardiac correction that they need. Heart surgery would be far too invasive for a frail elderly individual, however now they can receive the medical care they need to live. This new discovery aids surgeons in allowing them more inexpensive, less invasive options to give patients.
Relevance: This article is relevant to our curriculum since we have studied the mammalian heart in chapter 30. The heart is the muscle that pumps oxygen rich blood to every crevice in our bodies and is also the most important vital organ in the human body.We have studied various conditions associated with the heart, and this article describes more modern ways to correct these conditions.
Heart Repair Breakthroughs Could Replace Surgeon's Knife
By: Marilynn Marchione
March 25, 2013
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/25/heart-repair-surgery-catheters_n_2948745.html
Relevance: This article is relevant to our curriculum since we have studied the mammalian heart in chapter 30. The heart is the muscle that pumps oxygen rich blood to every crevice in our bodies and is also the most important vital organ in the human body.We have studied various conditions associated with the heart, and this article describes more modern ways to correct these conditions.
Heart Repair Breakthroughs Could Replace Surgeon's Knife
By: Marilynn Marchione
March 25, 2013
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/25/heart-repair-surgery-catheters_n_2948745.html
Sunday, May 12, 2013
Non-inherited Mutations Account for Many Heart Defects
Summary:
After a massive genetic study, led by researchers at the Yale School of Medicine, shows that new mutations found in the offspring of the parents play a ten percent role in the development of heart disease. There have been hundreds of different mutations found that appear to cause the most common heart defect at birth, known as congenital heart disease. This disease can disrupt the normal blood flow through the heart causing it to slow down, go in the wrong direction or to the wrong place, or be blocked completely.These mutations are found in genes that primarily modify histones, proteins that package DNA in the nucleus and conduct the timing and starting of genes during the development of a fetus. This discovery provides new information in the causes of the disease. For example, the sets of mutated genes appear to also be the same genes that are associated with autism. This information may also help with the treatment and prevention of congenital heart disease in the future, possibly stopping the disease in the early stages of development of the heart. In general, the mutations can occur multiple times in the same location and all increase or decrease the modification of histone proteins. The results of the study suggest that environmental influences during developmental stages of a fetus can also be a cause to the mutations.
Relevance:
This article connects to the circulatory system, specifically the heart. It shows how not all heart diseases have a major environmental influence or develop during later stages of life. The effects of congenital heart disease are also examples of an interruption to homeostasis because of how the disease may cause a lack of oxygen and blood to certain parts of the body, as well as showing how the blood can flow in the wrong direction even with the help from valves. The article also provides an insight to the development of the heart and the prevention of future heart problems.
Yale University, May 12, 2013
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/05/130512141210.htm
After a massive genetic study, led by researchers at the Yale School of Medicine, shows that new mutations found in the offspring of the parents play a ten percent role in the development of heart disease. There have been hundreds of different mutations found that appear to cause the most common heart defect at birth, known as congenital heart disease. This disease can disrupt the normal blood flow through the heart causing it to slow down, go in the wrong direction or to the wrong place, or be blocked completely.These mutations are found in genes that primarily modify histones, proteins that package DNA in the nucleus and conduct the timing and starting of genes during the development of a fetus. This discovery provides new information in the causes of the disease. For example, the sets of mutated genes appear to also be the same genes that are associated with autism. This information may also help with the treatment and prevention of congenital heart disease in the future, possibly stopping the disease in the early stages of development of the heart. In general, the mutations can occur multiple times in the same location and all increase or decrease the modification of histone proteins. The results of the study suggest that environmental influences during developmental stages of a fetus can also be a cause to the mutations.
Relevance:
This article connects to the circulatory system, specifically the heart. It shows how not all heart diseases have a major environmental influence or develop during later stages of life. The effects of congenital heart disease are also examples of an interruption to homeostasis because of how the disease may cause a lack of oxygen and blood to certain parts of the body, as well as showing how the blood can flow in the wrong direction even with the help from valves. The article also provides an insight to the development of the heart and the prevention of future heart problems.
Yale University, May 12, 2013
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/05/130512141210.htm
Beetroot Juice Can Help Lower Blood Pressure
Summary
According to a new study done by researchers from Queen Mary, University of London, beetroot juice can help lower blood pressure in people who have hypertension. These researchers examined the effects of ingesting nitrates on blood pressure in rats and then they confirmed their findings on an experiment with 15 people, all with high blood pressure. Nitrates are important to the growth of vegetables. Some examples of vegetables with a high nitrate concentration are beetroot, lettuce, cabbage, and fennel. Apparently, when nitrates are converted into a gas called nitric oxide it relaxes blood vessels and helps lower blood pressure. The group of 15 people they experimented on had a systolic blood pressure of 140-159 millimeters of mercury. They had no other medical problems and were not on any medication for hypertension. These people had to drink 250 milliliters of beetroot juice, which is actually a low amount of nitrate, but the next day there was an average of a ten point decrease in their blood pressure levels. Although consuming just small amounts of nitrate was proven to lower blood pressure level, it is still unsure if the effects are long-term.
Relevance
This article connects to what we have been learning in class in many ways. It is about blood pressure and hypertension, a cardiovascular disease, which both connects to the circulatory system which we learned about. We also learned about different kinds of cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension, and the preventive actions you can take to avoid getting cardiovascular diseases. But this article is about a possible cure for hypertension and how it works, so it relates to cardiovascular diseases and the circulatory system. Also it is about nitrates in vegetables, which we learned about the nitrogen cycle and it's importance for plant growth.
Author: Sarah Glynn
Published: April 16, 2013
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/259113.php
According to a new study done by researchers from Queen Mary, University of London, beetroot juice can help lower blood pressure in people who have hypertension. These researchers examined the effects of ingesting nitrates on blood pressure in rats and then they confirmed their findings on an experiment with 15 people, all with high blood pressure. Nitrates are important to the growth of vegetables. Some examples of vegetables with a high nitrate concentration are beetroot, lettuce, cabbage, and fennel. Apparently, when nitrates are converted into a gas called nitric oxide it relaxes blood vessels and helps lower blood pressure. The group of 15 people they experimented on had a systolic blood pressure of 140-159 millimeters of mercury. They had no other medical problems and were not on any medication for hypertension. These people had to drink 250 milliliters of beetroot juice, which is actually a low amount of nitrate, but the next day there was an average of a ten point decrease in their blood pressure levels. Although consuming just small amounts of nitrate was proven to lower blood pressure level, it is still unsure if the effects are long-term.
Relevance
This article connects to what we have been learning in class in many ways. It is about blood pressure and hypertension, a cardiovascular disease, which both connects to the circulatory system which we learned about. We also learned about different kinds of cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension, and the preventive actions you can take to avoid getting cardiovascular diseases. But this article is about a possible cure for hypertension and how it works, so it relates to cardiovascular diseases and the circulatory system. Also it is about nitrates in vegetables, which we learned about the nitrogen cycle and it's importance for plant growth.
Author: Sarah Glynn
Published: April 16, 2013
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/259113.php
Dynamic Behavior of Progenitor Cells in Brain Discovered
May 9, 2013
Johns Hopkins Medicine
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/05/130509142142.htm
Summary:
Neuroscientists at Johns Hopkins discovered that cells in the brain remain highly dynamic in the adult brain, where they transform into cells that insulate nerve fibers and help form scars that aid in tissue repair. They think that these mulyipurpose cells, which are distributed around the brain, are important in their research. Disapperance of one of these progenitor cells causes a neighbor to quickly divide to form a replacement, ensuring that cell loss and cell addition are kept in balance. These progenitor cells are also called oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs), which are very dynamic. Compare to adult brain cells, these are able to respond to any repairs needed while maintaining their numbers. OPCs "support cells in the brain and spinal cord responsible for wrapping nerve fibers to create insulation known as myelin. Without myelin, the electrical signals sent by neurons travel poorly and some cells die due to the lack of metabolic support from oligodendrocytes." However, the function of OPCs in the adult brain wasn't clear. To find out, researches genetically modified mice so that their OPCs contained a fluorescent protein along their edges. Using special microscopes that allow imaging deep inside the brain, they watched these cells in living mice for over a month. When they examined the brain, OPCs were continuously moving through the brain tissue, extending their "tentacles". Even though the progenitors are dynamic, each cell maintained its own area by repelling other OPCs when they came in contact. The cells seemed to sense each other's presence and know how to control the number of cells in their population. Researches also tested their response to injury by using a laser to create a small wound in the brain. Surprisingly, OPCs migrated to the injury site and contributed to scar formation by cell division of neighboring OPCs.
Connection:
In our human systems unit, we covered nervous systems, where we learned about nerve cells, how the communicate with each other and how they send signals with the help of myelin shealt. Myelin helps send electrical signals faster. As said previously, without myelin, some cells die due to the lack of metabolic support from oligodendrocytes. There are many diseases caused by this, where a patient has neurons that has signals traveling poorly and having cell damage. With this new discovery, they can easily help heal a patient who has brain cell damage.
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Expandable Valves for Congenital Heart Diseases
Summary: Surgeons at the Boston Children's Hospital in Massachusetts have quite recently implanted an expandable prosthetic heart valve into several children with Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP). These expandable prosthetic valves differentiate from the traditional prosthetic valves because they can be expanded when the child grows while traditional valves have a fixed diameter and cannot be altered once it is inserted into the heart. The valve is expanded through cardiac catheterization. This new advancement helps growing individuals avoid repeated heart surgery for the valve as their heart outgrows the valve. The replacement valve is only used on individuals with extremely sever cases of valve problems such as MVP. If the problem is not severe, the problem will just simply be repaired. This new valve, called The Melody, is since been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for replacement of the heart's pulmonary valve, but not yet for the mitral valve. Emani, a surgeon at the Boston Children's Hospital says, "We wanted to find a solution that would allow us to expand a valve as a child grows and avoid taking them back into the operating room." This also lowers the chances for lung swelling and requires less recovery times in young children.
Relevance: This topic is relevant to out unit on the circulatory system and the respiratory system. First of all, it discusses the valves (specifically the pulmonary valve and mitral valve) of the heart, that prevent back flow. This article talks about what can go wrong with the valves and what can be done. It talks about how these valves can be replaced if no longer working properly and how they have no developed to be expandable. This also relates to the respiratory system because it talks about how the expandable valve can reduce the risk for a lung swelling problem.
October 12, 2012 - Surgeons at Boston's Childrens Hospital
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/10/121003082933.htm
Relevance: This topic is relevant to out unit on the circulatory system and the respiratory system. First of all, it discusses the valves (specifically the pulmonary valve and mitral valve) of the heart, that prevent back flow. This article talks about what can go wrong with the valves and what can be done. It talks about how these valves can be replaced if no longer working properly and how they have no developed to be expandable. This also relates to the respiratory system because it talks about how the expandable valve can reduce the risk for a lung swelling problem.
October 12, 2012 - Surgeons at Boston's Childrens Hospital
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/10/121003082933.htm
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