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TDP-43: An Essential Protein in Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s is a deadly disease, claiming 121,499 lives in the U.S., making it the sixth-leading cause of death in the country. Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disease caused by the degeneration of neurons in brain areas related to cognition. The initial symptoms often include memory, language, and thinking difficulties. Daily living can become extremely difficult for individuals with Alzheimer’s, and they may also have changes in mood, personality, and behavior, which vary among individuals.

TDP-43 in Cognitive Abilities


At the molecular level, the accumulation of beta-amyloid proteins outside the neurons and tau proteins  inside neurons are significant characteristics of the disease. This accumulation can lead to inflammation and brain tissue atrophy, atrophy contributing to neuronal death. Dementia, a condition commonly found in Alzheimer’s patients, involves a decline in cognitive abilities such as memory loss, difficulty in reasoning, and impaired communication skills. It significantly affects a person’s ability to perform daily tasks independently.

Molecular composition of TDP-43


As toxic beta-amyloid proteins and tau proteins accumulate, microglia, specialized cells in the brain, activate (feel free to check out our other article on microglia!) to clear away debris from dying cells. This process, however, can lead to inflammation when microglia struggle to keep up. A crucial protein involved in Alzheimer’s is TDP-43, a transactive response DNA binding protein of 43 kDa, which is encoded by the TARDBP gene. TDP-43, in its normal state, is involved with RNA processing, brain stability, and gene regulation. When TDP-43 is phosphorylated and truncated (shortened and phosphate groups are added), it becomes linked to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. In Alzheimer’s, TDP-43 forms neurofibrillary tangles, contributing to the disease’s progression and cognitive decline.TDP-43, a nuclear ribonucleoprotein, influences mRNA levels, including tau expression. Dysregulation of atu leads to its aggregation, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s. Mutations affecting TDP-43’s nuclear localization sequence cause mislocalization, and new drugs are being created to target this sequence.
Depletion of TDP-43 in the nucleus results in cytoplasmic aggregation, which is what causes Alzheimer’s. Understanding TDP-43 may offer insights into potential Alzheimer’s treatments.

Sources:

  • https://molecularneurodegeneration.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13024-021-00503-x
  • https://alz-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/alz.13016#:~:text=This%20number%20could%20grow%20to,death%20in%20the%20United%20States.

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Prosthetics: A Rapidly Changing Field of Innovation

Prosthetics are a life-saving and common innovation – according to the World Health Organization, around 35-40 million people around the world require prosthetic devices! Prosthetics help so many people around the world with their daily lives and tasks, but have you ever wondered about their origins? What is the history behind them, and what effort do engineers put into their creation? 

Prosthetics, as defined by the Oxford Dictionary, encompass artificial body parts, including leg prostheses, breast prostheses, upper limb prostheses, and more! This technology holds the potential to assist numerous people across the world who face challenges in their daily lives. Additionally, prosthetics are projected to expand even more in the coming years with the advent of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), allowing prosthetics to be controlled using brainwaves.

Prosthetics can be created using various materials, but the most common are plastic, metal, and composite materials (a type of material produced from multiple individual materials). The material of the prosthetic is tailored to each person, as is the fitting of the prosthetic! Prosthetics must be fitted to each person to ensure a perfect and comfortable fit. The lifespan of prosthetics also depends on the user. For more active individuals, prosthetics will last less time, but for more sedentary individuals, prosthetics will last longer. High-activity prosthetics last for about one to three years, lower extremity prosthetics last for about the same time, upper extremity prosthetics last for about three to five years, and pediatric prosthetics last for 6 months to 2 years. 

But where does the lifecycle of prosthetics begin? Personalized prosthetics begin in the clinic, where measurements and other necessary data are taken from the patient. Then, the procedure gets moved to the engineering disciplines! Let’s say, for example, the joint in a knee prosthetic is not working correctly – it could be squeaky, rotating incorrectly, or a myriad of other problems. In the body, the knee contains a type of fluid called synovial fluid – this fluid is meant to smoothen the movement of the joint. Chemical engineering is an important part of replicating the action of the synovial fluid – chemical engineers designed the hyaluronic acid that is used in joint prosthetics! Additionally, chemical engineering also aids with creating new biomaterials for prostheses – in fact, the work of chemical engineering has introduced many of the new materials used in prostheses today! Chemical engineering is necessary to design, synthesize, and produce biocompatible polymeric materials that ensure a product is compatible with the body.. 

Electrical engineering also plays a huge role in the new advances in prosthetic manufacturing. A new trend that is rising in prosthetic manufacturing is BCIs or brain-computer interfaces! An advanced understanding of electrical currents is necessary to create BCIs while also taking into account the safety of the human using the prosthetic – electrical engineers have this advanced knowledge! According to Energy5, “Through the integration of electrical engineering principles, advanced prosthetic limbs, and assistive devices have significantly improved the quality of life for individuals with limb loss or disabilities. Electrical engineers create customized solutions, such as brain-computer interfaces, that allow patients to control prosthetic limbs with their thoughts.”

One more field of engineering that might not be as well known is regenerative engineering. Regenerative engineering, in a crisp nutshell, is a field of engineering that is researching how to efficiently recreate lost tissue. This field uses advances in engineering, biophysics, science, and medicine. 

Another significant issue with prosthetics is the lack of feedback provided to users regarding their interactions. Regenerative engineering is hard at work on this issue too – regenerative engineers are collaborating with a huge array of other fields to build new conductive biomaterials and technologies to support tissues like muscles and nerves, deliver biochemical cues, and localize electrical stimulation! 

Similarly, electrical engineering plays a similar role.A broad and accurate knowledge of electrical engineering is necessary to properly deliver the pulses necessary to activate the peripheral nerves using nerve cuff electrodes to improve prosthetic use. The area of nerve stimulation to enhance connection with prosthetics is new, but has the potential for a huge impact on all amputees. The advent of BCIs also requires a thorough knowledge of electrical engineering. BCIs have the potential to change the lives of amputees in the reverse direction by allowing easier control. 

Prosthetics are life-changing, but not everyone gets them. While some people do choose to throw their prosthetic away once it becomes too worn out to use, there is another option. Some clinics allow amputees to send their prosthetics to them to be taken apart and transformed into replacement prosthetic parts! These parts are shipped to places like Vietnam, Haiti, and Belize to serve people there! This method can help amputees around the world who may not have the means to take care of their prosthetics. Programs like this truly help to restart the life cycle of old prosthetics!

But even with these programs, prosthetics still cost a lot, and that is one fact that cannot be denied. But, many researchers and companies are looking to eradicate that problem! An example is Rise Bionics, a company based out of India that creates prosthetics from rattan trees (sugar cane). Creating flexible prosthetics from sugar cane cuts the cost of prosthetics by over 50%! The prosthetics that Rise creates cost around 20% to 50% of the cost of regular prosthetics. Rise’s workflow is different from most – rather than having day-long fittings spread out over multiple sessions, they use an app on a device that will scan the region where the prosthetic will fit and use an algorithm to design the mesh that will fit between the amputee’s body and the prosthetic!

The pandemic severely impacted research and medicine, particularly for scientists and engineers unable to access labs. This hindered innovation in prosthetics and brain-computer devices. Clinicians faced similar challenges, with orthotists reporting variations in appointment times and a shift to telehealth services. Some services were limited to urgent cases, potentially affecting non-urgent patients. Despite these setbacks, the prosthetics field is rebounding, with innovations like BCIs and alternative materials driving progress. 

References

  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O6lENrRANxY
  • https://navier.engr.colostate.edu/whatische/ChEL07Body.html
  • ://doi.org/10.1007/s12598-015-0446-0
  • https://doi.org/10.1080/16549716.2020.1792192
  • https://opcenters.com/what-is-the-lifespan-of-prosthetics/
  • https://www.georgiaprosthetics.com/blog-articles/what-should-i-do-with-my-old-prosthesis-donate-it/#:~:text=Many%20people%20simply%20throw%20away,out%20in%20a%20tremendous%20way
  • https://news.mit.edu/2022/rise-bionics-prosthetics-orthotics-0429
Photo by urbazon on iStock

Why We Find Comfort in Rewatching Movies

Pressing Play

We’ve all done it before: rewatching “Friends” for the hundredth time or playing a movie you’ve already seen because you don’t know what else to watch. Well, there’s a deeper scientific reason than not knowing what to watch. 

Emotional Fulfillment

Sometimes, we rewatch movies or shows for emotional fulfillment. For example, you might rewatch a comedy because you know it makes you laugh. Knowing how the story unfolds, the happy and sad parts, and how it ends. Knowing how a story ends gives us a sense of comfort and closure. We might rewatch a movie to find hidden clues we missed before or to fill in gaps in the story. We might also watch a movie for nostalgia. Rewatching something we used to watch gives us the bittersweet feeling of a blast to the past. 

Effortless Enjoyment

Humans naturally prefer activities that don’t demand much effort- watching something new means dealing with new characters, stories, and settings. But when we rewatch something familiar, our brains can relax and enjoy the show better. It’s easier to retain information – a concept called perceptual fluency. Rewatching a movie or show helps us notice small details we might have previously missed.

These days, we’re flooded with options for media, shows, and movies. With such an overwhelming amount of choices, it’s easier to watch something we know instead of watching something we may or may not like. It takes less brain power to settle on something we already know instead of going through the exhausting task of browsing through endless options.

The Mere Exposure Effect

The Mere Exposure Effect is when people tend to develop a liking or dislike for things merely because they are familiar with them. For example, have you ever hated a song on the radio, upset that they kept playing that song, but after a while, started humming along and eventually started singing along to all the lyrics? This is the same for movies and TV shows: watching it over and over again deepens our appreciation for it. 

This phenomenon affects our ability to make decisions. Instead of using logic to pick a movie or show, we choose something familiar to us. We do this because decisions make us unsure, so when we see an option we know everything about, we’ll inevitably choose that one. We may naturally view new things as threats, and watching a show repeatedly increases our confidence.

References

Mere exposure effect – the Decision Lab. (n.d.). The Decision Lab. https://thedecisionlab.com/biases/mere-exposure-effect 

Avlonitis, K. (2023, March 2). Why We Can’t Stop Rewatching Movies and TV Shows: A Psychological Exploration. Medium. https://medium.com/@bananofloydas/why-we-cant-stop-rewatching-movies-and-tv-shows-a-psychological-exploration-7f3a90ea3be5

Jean-Pierre, T. (2021, December 29). The problem with having too many choices | Medium. Medium. https://tavianjp.medium.com/the-problem-with-having-too-many-choices-49ae23aff1b4

N. Kraft, R., Ph. D. (2022, December 22). Play and Repeat: Why We Watch the Same Shows Over and Over. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/defining-memories/202212/play-and-repeat-why-we-watch-the-same-shows-over-and-overNickerson, C. (2023, October 10). Mere Exposure Effect in Psychology: Biases & Heuristics. Simply Psychology. https://www.simplypsychology.org/mere-exposure-effect.html

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Current Trends in Alzheimer’s Research

Alzheimer’s, described by the Mayo Clinic as the “most common cause of dementia,” leads to the shrinking of the brain and the eventual death of brain cells.

Despite decades of research, many aspects of Alzheimer’s remain unknown. . Scientists continue to seek information to develop treatments aiming to cure the disease. The current prominent trend focuses on slowing down the progression of beta-amyloid plaque, identified as a key component by top researchers.

Recent Developments

Last July, the FDA approved a new drug treatment, lecanemab, as a result of its success in slowing down the formation of the plaque. Many have gained hope and interest in the drug for being the first FDA approved drug in twenty years for Alzheimer’s. However, scientists and doctors still remain cautious about the use of the drug in everyday treatments. For example, studies from Yale University incorporation with the National Institutes of Health has shown moderate side effects including rash, body aches, and a variety of other symptoms. Yet, it remains to have significantly less known side effects in comparison to other studies completed with other treatments.

Another common direction in treating Alzheimer’s is gene therapy. Gene therapy is defined as a method that edits one’s DNA to alter their chances in developing genetic diseases. Results have consisted of fixed genetic deformities and the increased livelihood of cells. (Healthline) Specifically in relation to Alzheimer’s, it can edit the genetic markers of individuals who have had past family members have the disease. Consequently, it can completely decrease their chances of developing the disease.

(Source: News-Medical)

With the analysis of current Alzheimer’s treatments, it allows us to understand the paths and steps that have already been taken to cure the disease and opens up new possibilities. Although our knowledge still continues to grow, significant progress has been made in the creation of new treatments for targeting the beta amyloid-plaque. Hopefully, in the future of a constantly industrializing society, a new successful treatment will be formed to cure the disease.

References

  • “Alzheimer’s Disease.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 30 Aug. 2023, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20350447#:~:text=It’s%20characterized%20by%20changes%20in,thinking%2C%20behavior%20and%20social%20skills.
  • MacMillan, Carrie. “Lecanemab, the New Alzheimer’s Treatment: 3 Things to Know.” Yale Medicine, Yale Medicine, 24 July 2023, www.yalemedicine.org/news/lecanemab-leqembi-new-alzheimers-drug.
  • Ruwa, Rashida. “Gene Therapy for Alzheimer’s Disease.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 21 Sept. 2023, www.healthline.com/health/alzheimers/alzheimers-gene-therapy-treatment#what-is-gene-therapy.
  • Image 1: (Dementia Services Information and Development Centre)
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STEM Cells: The Key to Healing Horizons

Do you know why certain organs and tissues regenerate? When you have a small
scrape or cut, the tissue regenerates in a matter of days or months, sometimes
leaving a small scar or remaining intact as before the accident.

This is due to stem cells, the body’s raw material; from them, all other cells with specialized functions are generated. Under the right conditions in the body or a laboratory, stem cells divide to form more cells: daughter or embryonic cells. (Células madre: qué son y qué hacen, 2022)

Image by: Citoclinic / Guadalajara

But to enhance understanding, here is a table with key differences between cells.

Célula MadreCélula Embrionaria
OriginFound in adult tissues such as bone marrow or fatFound in developing embryos
DifferentiationIt can differentiate into specific cells depending on its originIt has the potential to differentiate into any type of cell
Obtaining MethodObtained from adult tissues through less invasive procedures such as bone marrow aspirationObtained from developing embryos, which has raised ethical concerns and logistical challenges
LimitationsLimited differentiation potential compared to embryonic cellsHigher differentiation potential, making them versatile for cell regeneration
Rejection RiskLower rejection risk in transplants, since the cells come from the patientHigher rejection risk, since the cells come from a different donor
Common UsesWidely used in medical treatments (bone marrow transplants and regenerative therapies)Explored in research and clinical trials to treat various diseases and injuries

Specific Examples in Daily Life

Stem cell therapies offer hope for those seeking more effective, less invasive
treatments. The ability of these cells to regenerate damaged tissues poses exciting prospects for improving the quality of life, especially for those facing chronic medical challenges.

Image by: Simone van der Koelen

Also, in the area of beauty and skin care, including stem cell derivatives in cosmetic
products open a new chapter in the science of skin health. While their
practical application is still in development, ongoing research promises to reveal
more about the rejuvenating potential of these innovative solutions.

Finally, stem cells continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in medicine and aesthetics. As we advance in this era of scientific discoveries, it is clear that stem cells are not only protagonists in the laboratory but also in the tangible improvement of our everyday lives. Their regenerative potential offers a promising vision of the future, where healing and renewal may be more accessible than ever.

References:

  • Células madre: qué son y qué hacen. (2022, 18 mayo). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/tests-procedures/bone-marrow-transplant/in-depth/stem-cells/art-20048117
  • National Library of Medicine. (s. f.). Células madre. https://medlineplus.gov/spanish/stemcells.html
  • Células madre – Instituto de Traumatología Estévez. (2020, 15 septiembre). Instituto de Traumatología Estévez. https://www.traumatologiaestevez.es/tratamientos-alternativos/celulas-madre/
  • Millet, A. (2016, 13 marzo). Células madre: puesta al día de los últimos avances. Clínica Millet | Clínica de la Mujer. https://clinicamillet.es/blog/celulas-madre-puesta-al-dia-de-los-ultimos-avances/
  • Osorio, U. R. (2022, 4 febrero). Tipos de células madre. ecologiaverde.com. https://www.ecologiaverde.com/tipos-de-celulas-madre-3749.html
  • Cover image by: BBC
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The Importance of Sleep for Teens: Impacting The Bigger Picture

Teenagers and Sleep Schedules:

In the chaos of teenage life, quality sleep often takes a back seat… With packed schedules of activities like sports, schoolwork, and social events, teens often get subpar sleep without even realizing it. In this article, we will discuss how sleep affects overall health, including physical and cognitive well-being.

What the Experts Say:


Sleep is a crucial factor for our functioning, providing rejuvenation and body repair. Since sleep is crucial to growth and development, it is especially critical for young children and teenagers. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends 8-10 hours of daily sleep for teenagers aged 13-18.

Why it Matters:

Sufficient and high-quality sleep is crucial for overall well-being. The body heals, unwinds, and regenerates itself effectively when it receives regular, long-term rest. Adequate sleep, ideally 8-10 hours, plays a role in hormone regulation, supports growth, and bolsters the immune system. Apart from that, quality sleep contributes to disease prevention, including conditions like heart disease and metabolic disorders linked with obesity. Establishing good sleep habits, such as turning off phones before bedtime and managing time effectively, is essential for promoting these benefits. Exposure to blue light before bedtime disrupts the body’s circadian cycle, deceiving it into believing it’s daylight.

Tips for Better Sleep:

Getting quality sleep is a common challenge for many teenagers. A recent study reveals that almost 70% of all teens lack sufficient sleep on school nights. However, with appropriate adjustments, quality sleep is achievable. Turning off your phone an hour before sleeping, improving time management, and creating daily sleep schedules are all things that contribute to developing healthy sleep habits.

In summary, sleep is crucial in maintaining good health. Everyone, especially teens, should work to prioritize sleep, as it is a fundamental pillar in every aspect of life. Making the smallest changes can create the biggest differences! A good sleep is a good you.

Sources:

  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4651462/https://www.cdc.gov/healthyschools/features/students-sleep.htm
  • https://www.cdc.gov/healthyschools/features/students-sleep.htm#:~:text=How%20much%20sleep%20someone%20needs,10%20hours%20per%2024%20hours.
  • https://childmind.org/article/happens-teenagers-dont-get-enough-sleep/
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4651462/#:~:text=There%20are%20many%20consequences%20of,normally%20%5B8%2C9%5D.
  • https://childmind.org/article/happens-teenagers-dont-get-enough-sleep/#:~:text=Teens%20need%20nine%20hours%20of,teens%20don’t%20get%20that.
  • Figure 1: A breakdown of the benefits of deep sleep

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The Curious Case of Phineas Gage: Paving The Way for Neuroscience

Picture this: It’s September 13, 1848, and in the quiet town of Cavendish, Vermont, a 25-year-old named Phineas Gage is immersed in the routine work of a railroad foreman. Engaged in the meticulous task of preparing a railroad bed, Gage handles an iron tamping rod with practiced hands, packing explosive powder into the ground. Little did he know that the trajectory of that iron rod would alter the course of his life, and end up providing insight into the functions of the human brain for years to come.

As the explosive powder detonated due to the friction, the rod was launched into his left cheek, destroying his eye. It made its way through the left front of the brain before exiting the skull from the right side. However, despite such an intense accident, Gage was still able to walk and talk while looking for medical assistance. During his recovery, Gage was treated by a number of medical professionals, including Dr. John Harlow, who would report the case in the Boston Medical Surgery Journal.

However, what truly made the case of Phineas Gage so remarkable and relevant in the history of various fields like psychology and neuroscience was not only his ability to survive a seemingly fatal injury but how this accident had changed him on a mental and emotional plane. Prior to the accident, coworkers, friends, and family of Phineas Gage described him to be hardworking, energetic, and pleasant. After the accident, they went as far as saying that he was “no longer Gage”. His irritable manner resulted in him losing his job. In the later years of his life, his personality would return to the way it was, signaling that healing in the frontal lobe could reverse personality changes. The primary area of injury in Gage’s accident was the frontal lobe; At the time, the frontal lobes were ‘considered silent structures, without function and unrelated to human behaviour.’ so the fact that only his personality was changed led early neurologists to alter their current understanding of the brain’s localisation of function.

The concept of the localisation of function in the brain refers to the idea that specific cognitive and behavioural functions are associated with particular regions or areas within the brain. This principle suggests that different parts of the brain are responsible for different functions, and damage to or stimulation of specific areas can result in predictable changes in behaviour or cognitive abilities.

All in all, the extraordinary story of Phineas Gage, propelled by an unforeseen accident, has left an indisputable mark on the early field of neuroscience. His story unraveled and uncovered the functions of the brain and tested the limits of human survival. He inspired many experts to delve into researching and perfecting knowledge on the localization of functions in the human brain. Today, his skull and the rod that injured him are both on display at the Warren Anatomical Museum in Boston.

  • Sources:
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7735047/#:~:text=Gage’s%20case%20is%20considered%20to,personality%2C%20emotions%20and%20social%20interaction.&text=Prior%20to%20this%20case%2C%20the,and%20unrelated%20to%20human%20behavior.
  • https://www.verywellmind.com/phineas-gage-2795244#toc-what-happened-to-phineas-gage
  • https://www.thomasclarksonacademy.org/attachments/download.asp?

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Optimizing Your Approach to Understanding and Effectively Managing Migraines

When people hear the word “migraine,” they think it’s just a severe headache or pain slightly more than a throbbing sensation in the temples. However, there are differences between the two that are important to note. 

What is a migraine?

A migraine is more than a headache; it’s a neurological condition affecting more than one billion individuals yearly. Its most notable aspect is a pulsing headache on one side of the head, but it’s common to have a migraine without this pain. Other symptoms include aura, ringing in the ears, neck or shoulder pain, nausea, light or sound sensitivity, and irritability. Aura is a mixture of sensory, motor, and speech symptoms that act as warning signals before a migraine attack begins. About 15-20% of people experience migraine with aura. 

There are four stages of a migraine attack. The first is prodrome, also known as preheadache, which can last a few hours to a few days. Symptoms include difficulty concentrating, speaking and reading, and moving muscles. The second is aura; this is the stage that some people may skip. The third is attack. Its main feature is a headache, and symptoms mimic an illness (nausea, loss of appetite, chills or sweating, dizziness). The last is post-drome, also called a migraine “hangover,” as its symptoms are similar to one: aches, mental fog, and feeling physically drained.

Figure 1: Overview of the Four Phases of a Migraine

How are the dealt with?

Unfortunately, very little is known about what triggers a migraine. The best way to deal with a migraine is to avoid it in the first place: if you can figure out its triggers, then avoid it. 

Common triggers include drugs like alcohol and caffeine, stress, bright lights, strong smells, and a lack of sleep. Genetics also plays a significant role. About 60% of people have migraines because they inherited it.

If over-the-counter medicines like Advil Migraine or Excedrin Migraine don’t work, doctors can prescribe sumatriptan or rizatriptan. Both block pain pathways in the brain.

In general, hunkering down in a quiet, dark place and resting is the best way to deal with migraine pain. While there’s a common misconception that migraines are just more painful headaches, they are much more than that and should be taken seriously. As you would with any illness, do what you must do to feel better. 

Figure 2: The Brain With a Migraine in an MRI

Sources: 

https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/health-and-wellness/2019/november/migraines-vs-headaches

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8904749/#:~:text=Migraine%20affects%20more%20than%20one,among%20young%20adults%20and%20females

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/-/scassets/images/org/health/articles/5005-migraine-headaches.jpg

https://www.mayo.edu/research/centers-programs/migraine-research-program/overview#:~:text=Migraine%20is%20challenging%20to%20study,the%20disorder%20as%20a%20disease

https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/CHtrxODCBCw9pmMDeotVPi-I7fI=/1500×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/brain-lesions-on-mri-in-migraines-4044746-5c93cd0646e0fb00014427d0.png

gaming4

Gaming Wonders: The Science Behind the Screen

Have you ever found yourself lost in the immersive worlds of video games and wondered about the wizardry behind them? Well, buckle up as we take a deep dive into the fascinating science and technology that make our favorite gaming adventures possible.

Graphics and Animation


In the visually rich landscapes and characters of video games, a seamless integration of art and science takes place. Developers utilize techniques like texture mapping and shading to craft engaging environments. Our examination begins with the technical nuances that constitute the visuals, shedding light on how pixels contribute to the creation of digital landscapes.

Image by Onur Binay on Unspash

Artificial Intelligence in Gaming

The lifelike behaviors of non-player characters (NPCs) often feel like true users, but it’s the result of carefully implemented artificial intelligence (AI). Developers deploy algorithms that govern NPC actions, bringing a dynamic element to the gaming experience. For example, in Grand Theft Auto (GTA) and Roblox, non-player characters (NPCs) operate through sophisticated AI systems. These systems use decision-making algorithms to create role-specific behaviors, allowing NPCs to react dynamically to the player’s actions. Advanced AI may include adaptive learning, environmental awareness, scripted events, and randomized elements, contributing to a dynamic and realistic gaming experience.

Mani (GTA NPC), Image by GTA – Wiki Fandom
Roblox NPC, Image by Roblox Developer Forum

Virtual Reality: Mechanics of Immersive Gameplay

Within this captivating technological realm, players are not merely spectators; they become active participants, navigating a three-dimensional space that transcends the boundaries of traditional gaming. In the expansive universe of VR, users have the opportunity to explore distant galaxies, unravel ancient mysteries, and interact with environments in ways previously unimaginable.
The transformative nature of VR lies in its ability to engage multiple senses simultaneously. Visual immersion is achieved through high-resolution displays and sophisticated optics that mimic the intricacies of the human eye. Additionally, spatial awareness is meticulously crafted, allowing users to perceive depth, distance, and scale with an unprecedented level of precision. The result is an intricate dance of technology and human perception, seamlessly blending the virtual and physical worlds.
Moreover, the mechanics of VR extend beyond the visual and spatial realms. Haptic feedback technology adds a tactile dimension to the experience, enabling users to feel virtual textures, surfaces, and even the recoil of virtual weaponry. This tactile feedback, coupled with precise motion tracking, enhances the sense of presence, making users feel truly connected to the virtual environment.
The significance of VR in gaming goes beyond its immersive qualities. It catalyzes innovation, fostering the development of new gameplay mechanics, interactive narratives, and social experiences. Collaborative virtual spaces enable users to connect with others worldwide, creating a shared virtual reality that transcends geographical boundaries.

However, players contribute to the evolving landscape through strategic decisions and interactions. This section emphasizes that every gamer, regardless of attire or setting, plays a part in the ongoing narrative of virtual adventures.
As this article is concluding, remember this: behind every pixel, NPC maneuver, and virtual reality wonder lies a symphony of science and innovation. Gaming isn’t just entertainment; it’s a dynamic collaboration between creators and players, shaping immersive worlds. So, as you venture forth with your controller in hand or don the VR headset, remember that you are not merely a spectator; you are an active participant in this grand symphony of gaming. The pixels respond to your commands, NPCs dance to the algorithms you set in motion, and the immersive worlds of virtual reality await your exploration.

References:

However, players contribute to the evolving landscape through strategic decisions and interactions. This section emphasizes that every gamer, regardless of attire or setting, plays a part in the ongoing narrative of virtual adventures.

As this article is concluding, remember this: behind every pixel, NPC maneuver, and virtual reality wonder lies a symphony of science and innovation. Gaming isn’t just entertainment; it’s a dynamic collaboration between creators and players, shaping immersive worlds.  So, as you venture forth with your controller in hand or don the VR headset, remember that you are not merely a spectator; you are an active participant in this grand symphony of gaming. The pixels respond to your commands, NPCs dance to the algorithms you set in motion, and the immersive worlds of virtual reality await your exploration.

References:

  1. TeamViewer. (2023, 29 marzo). What is virtual reality (VR) and how does it work? https://www.teamviewer.com/en/info/what-is-virtual-reality-vr-and-how-does-it-work/ 
  2. Carter, R. (2023, 1 junio). How does virtual reality work? XR Today. https://www.xrtoday.com/virtual-reality/how-does-virtual-reality-work/ 
  3. Stegner, B. (2019, 11 octubre). Video game graphics and settings explained. MUO. https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/video-game-graphics-settings-explained/ 
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  9. Cover image credit: Image by Iman Pham on Unsplash
percep (2)

Human Perception Unveiled: A Distinctive Collection of Our Perceptions

Our sensory processing is how we perceive and organize the messages from our senses (visual, auditory, taste, smell, touch, and body awareness). Sensory receptors are located throughout our body and constantly send messages to our brain and spinal cord. When these sensory receptors receive a message, they conduct an electrical impulse that is transmitted by neurons to our central nervous system (composed of our brain and spinal cord). Our neurons process this information and turn it into a motor or behavioral response. The impulse travels to our motor neurons and is sent to an effector (ex: a muscle or a gland) to execute a motor or behavioral response. 

Someone looks at their glass of water, which activates their visual receptors. An electrical impulse is sent to their central nervous system, relaying a message. Through seeing this glass of water, their central nervous system receives the message that the body is thirsty. The impulse travels to the motor neuron to get a muscle to pick up the glass of water and take a drink. A muscle (effector) picks up the glass of water and the person drinks it.

Everyone processes stimuli differently, so our perception of the world sounds to us varies. Individuals who are neurodivergent or have atypical sensory processing can experience hypo sensitivity (under-responsive) or hypersensitivity (over-responsive). For example, those who are auditory-seeking are hyposensitive to sound, so they may need constant auditory stimulation through music, podcasts, or ambient noise.

Hypersensitivity may look like:

  • Visual: Lights are too bright, reacting suddenly to changes in bright lights
  • Auditory: Sounds are too loud or overwhelming, suddenly reacting to loud noises
  • Taste: The texture of certain foods may feel gross or out of place
  • Smell: Sensitive to strong scents such as perfumes
  • Touch: Sensitive to textures you touch, such as itchy clothes
  • Body Awareness: Bumping into objects and struggling with balance

Hyposensitivity may look like:

  • Visual: Enjoys visual stimulation such as bright and colorful light
  • Auditory: Going to concerts, listening to music at higher volumes
  • Taste: Likes to chew on things for stimulation
  • Smell: It may take longer to identify certain scents
  • Touch: Less awareness when it comes to being touched
  • Body Awareness: Struggling to keep still; you may not always recognize other people’s personal space

Image source: Research Gate