ai1

Artificial Intelligence – Building the Future

by with No Comment Blog

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a newly emerging dynamic field that is greatly helping in creating technological advancements for the future. You may have heard about AI, but what exactly is it? In this article we will aim to inform, address, and understand the relevance and importance of AI in today’s world.

At its simplest, AI refers to the development of computer systems that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. This encompasses a broad spectrum of capabilities such as speech recognition, image processing, problem-solving, and decision-making. The overarching goal of AI is to create machines that mimic human intelligence and adapt to various scenarios.

When we consider the potential applications of AI, a window of innovation is opened. AI has been progressively worked on and developed for the past 40 years, but it wasn’t until recently that breakthroughs have been made. For example, Apple’s Siri was first released in 2011 and took nearly 2 decades to create. Siri’s voice analysis and response features showcase one of the most beneficial uses of artificial intelligence.

Well, why should we care? How is this relevant in today’s world? Though AI does serve its benefits and potentially helpful uses, AI has also proven to be somewhat of an issue. One key concern in today’s world is AI’s effect on the workforce. It is estimated that by 2030 AI could replace up to the equivalent of 300 million full-time jobs globally. These jobs could include things like customer service, research and data analysis, retail jobs, and accounting/data management. However as AI continues to evolve, it also may open up a variety of unprecedented career pathways. This includes occupations such as cybersecurity management, machine learning engineers, and healthcare professions surrounding AI integration and development.

To conclude, AI and its potential is still somewhat unknown. As AI continues to evolve, it is important that we stay informed and up to date on its advancements in today’s world.

Sources:

tdp2

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

by with No Comment Blog

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:

Read more scientific articles at projectcleris.org

stemcells1

STEM Cells: The Key to Healing Horizons

by with No Comment Blog

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:

sleep1 (1) (1)

The Importance of Sleep for Teens: Impacting The Bigger Picture

by with No Comment Blog

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:

Read more interesting science articles at projectcleris.org

phineas2 (1)

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

by with 2 Comments Blog

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.

Read more interesting articles at https://projectcleris.org

migraine2 (1)

Optimizing Your Approach to Understanding and Effectively Managing Migraines

by with No Comment Blog

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

 Read more interesting science articles at https://projectcleris.org

percep (2)

Human Perception Unveiled: A Distinctive Collection of Our Perceptions

by with No Comment Blog

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

Find more interesting science articles on our website: https://projectcleris.org

Image source: Research Gate

stemcells1 (1)

Stem Cells: The Fascinating Power Of Regenerative Medicine

by with No Comment Blog

What are stem cells? Maybe you’ve heard about them in science class, on the news, or in one of your favorite podcasts. In today’s world of medicine, stem cells can be considered revolutionary. They hold the power to make incredible advancements in medicine which could potentially change the way we fight and treat many diseases. In this article, we will cover the properties of stem cells, their current uses, and how they may further help in the near future.

An Overview:

Stem cells can be considered like clay; they can be molded, crafted, and shaped into anything. These cells can turn into specialized cells, which have their own unique function. Stem cells exist in all of our bodies and are found in a variety of tissues and organs such as the brain, pancreas, bones, skin, and heart.

There are multiple types of stem cells, two of which are currently being explored further.

Adult Stem Cells:

All around the body, we have a variety of stem cells. Some of these cells, such as stem cells found in the skin, are always active, whereas others lay dormant until needed. (ex, stem cells in the liver) One important note is that adult stem cells cannot freely turn into any type of specialized cell. They only turn into specialized cells that are in the surrounding area. For example, a stem cell in the heart could turn into a variety of cardiac cells, but would not have the capability to turn into a nerve cell in the brain. This trait of adult stem cells is something we call “multipotent”.

Embryonic Stem Cells:

Embryonic stem cells are much different than adult stem cells. They are found in a developing human embryo, typically from only the 4th-7th day after fertilization. These cells are considered pluripotent, meaning they can transform into any type of specialized cell.

Current Uses of Stem Cells:

Though stem cell treatment and therapy are both very new concepts, doctors and researchers have already developed some relatively safe uses for adult stem cells. For example, cancer patients who may have had red blood cells destroyed in treatment may be eligible for a “stem cell transplant” or “bone marrow transplant”. During this process, stem cells from a donor (Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant) are introduced into the patient. The goal is that the patient’s body accepts the cells as its own, and in turn, can create new red blood cells. Stem cells can also come from the patient. Doctors may extract stem cells from the patient, store them, then reintroduce them at a later point. (Autologous Stem Cell Transplant) These types of transplants have also been proven to fight off certain blood-borne diseases. Currently, the use of stem cells in people is still quite limited. Doctors are still working towards using embryonic stem cells as they are more complex and harder to work with.

Further Research/Investigation:

Ongoing research is being conducted on the potential uses of stem cells. Researchers have worked with embryonic stem cells that will develop into a specialized cell of their choice. This could potentially be useful in testing drugs that target certain types of cells. On top of this, researchers are working to use embryonic cells with repairs involving tissue, organs, and even the spinal cord.

Conclusion:

Stem cells are still a big question mark in terms of their uses. Doctors and researchers continue to explore potential benefits. Through research, stem cells may have the potential to reshape the medical landscape, and change the way we treat diseases in the future.

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/bone-marrow-transplant/in-depth/stem-cells/art-20048117

https://stemcell.nd.edu/research/alternative-stem-cell-sources/adult-stem-cells/#:~:text=Unlike%20embryonic%20stem%20cells%2C%20which,they%20reside%20(called%20multipotent).

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/bone-marrow-transplant/about/pac-20384854

https://www.whatisbiotechnology.org/index.php/science/summary/stem/stem-cells-repair-tissues-and-regenerate-cells

https://www.unmc.edu/stemcells/educational-resources/importance.html

Read more interesting science articles at: https://projectcleris.org

lenses1 (1)

Clear Vision Unveiled: How Do Contact Lenses Work?

by with No Comment Blog

At least 2.2 billion people around the globe have impaired vision, and of these people, 140 million wear contact lenses. There are two general categories of contact lenses: soft and hard (also known as rigid gas permeable or RGP). Soft contacts are made of flexible plastics that offer more comfort and stability than hard contacts but are more difficult to insert and remove. On the other hand, hard contacts have a longer lifespan and lower risk of infection, but it’s easier to dislodge them from the eye.

Figure 1: Comparison of how different contacts look on the eye

How Do Contact Lenses Work?

No matter if they’re soft or RGP, contact lenses have a fascinating science behind them. They sit on top of the cornea, the eye’s transparent outer layer. There, they correct the refraction of light. Refractive errors make it challenging for the eye to focus light how it usually does, which results in blurry vision, and eyewear (glasses and contacts) fixes this issue.

Figure 2: Diagram of the cornea

For example, myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is the eye focusing light in front of the retina instead of directly onto it. Contact lenses help you see clearly by adjusting the light rays to angle further back into your eye, right onto the retina.

Glasses Vs. Contact Lenses

Of course, glasses are another option for blurry vision. However, many prefer contact lenses because they move with the eye, meaning you can look around a space with perfect vision. Glasses often leave room at the edges that they can’t correct. Also, contacts are handy with outdoor sports as they won’t fog up or get wet, unlike glasses.

While it can take some time to get used to the feeling of weight on your eye, contacts are a fan favorite for various reasons. They’ve come a long way since being invented in 1888 and are so technologically advanced that only 1 out of 500 wearers get severe eye infections! Whether you wear them or are simply intrigued by the innovation behind them, contact lenses promise a clearer and brighter future for all.

Sources:
10 Fun Facts About Contact Lenses | Professional VisionCare
The contact lens mistakes you might be making, and other important eye health tips
Types of Contact Lenses | FDA
Differences between Soft and Hard Contact Lenses | The Canadian Association of Optometrists
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/326747398/figure/fig1/AS:654865197973504@1533143438259/Two-major-types-of-contact-lenses-Photographs-showing-the-a-hard-and-b-soft-contact.png
https://www.wolfeeyeclinic.com/filesimages/CorneaDisease/CorneaDisease_HeathyEyeDiagram.jpg
How Do Contact Lenses Work?: Benjamin Optical: Eye Center

Read more interesting science articles at https://projectcleris.org

planetstoscale-1

Planet Nine: A Scientific Odyssey into the Solar System’s Hidden Giant

by with One Comment Blog

In the expansive reaches of our solar system, a captivating scientific conundrum has surfaced, beckoning the keen minds of astronomers to embark on an intellectual odyssey.

What is “Planet X”?

The concept of a ninth planet, occasionally referred to as “Planet X,” is not new. Its historical roots are entwined with previous astronomical speculations. The upsurge of interest in this idea, however, can be attributed to the groundbreaking research of astronomers Konstantin Batygin and Mike Brown, whose 2016 work laid the groundwork for Planet Nine’s resurgence into the scientific forefront.

The Kuiper Belt, a celestial hinterland residing beyond Neptune, serves as the epicenter of the Planet Nine conundrum. It is a region inhabited by icy objects, among which Pluto and Eris – one of the largest known dwarf planets of our solar system – are renowned inhabitants. Yet, within this remote realm, subtle gravitational tugs on Kuiper Belt Objects (KBOs) provide the first clues to the presence of a hidden planetary body.

Planet Nine defies direct visual recognition, lending it an enigmatic character that contributes to its allure. Its existence is deduced from the disturbances it causes in the orbits of KBOs, which lend distinctive properties to their elliptical paths.

“Planet X” Characteristics

Estimates suggest that Planet Nine could possess a mass ten times that of Earth, positioning it as a super-Earth-sized entity on the outskirts of our solar system. Presuming its existence, Planet Nine follows an elliptical orbit of remarkable eccentricity. It navigates a protracted journey, spanning thousands of terrestrial years to complete a single solar orbit. Given its staggering distance from the Sun, Planet Nine is expected to be a world shrouded in ice, with a substantial atmosphere to withstand the profound chill of its extraterrestrial habitat.

The scientific community continues its tireless quest to pinpoint Planet Nine. This relentless pursuit employs advanced telescopes and sophisticated data analysis techniques to survey the night sky, in the hopes of discerning the faint traces of this concealed celestial body.

The discovery of Planet Nine carries profound implications for the field of planetary science. It may elucidate the enigmatic deviations in the orbits of neighboring celestial bodies, shedding light on the intricacies of celestial mechanics and planetary formation. It may even shed light on undiscovered parts of theories we still know little about – gravity. Furthermore, the study of this ninth planet serves as a bridge between our solar system and the exoplanetary realm, permitting insights into the commonalities and distinctions between our planetary family and those found orbiting distant stars.

Planet Nine, the tantalizing cosmic mystery, exemplifies the scientific spirit’s relentless pursuit of knowledge. Its elusiveness, while complex, serves as a testament to the dedication of astronomers and their enduring quest to unearth the secrets of the solar system. As our technological prowess and understanding of the universe advance, we move ever closer to the resolution of this hypothetical ninth planet’s mystery. Until that moment arrives, the allure of the unknown, the thrill of scientific discovery, and the potential to redefine our comprehension of the solar system’s intricate dance continue to inspire the gaze of astronomers, directing us toward the realization of Planet Nine’s secrets and the recalibration of our cosmic narrative.

Bibliography
https://www.caltech.edu/about/news/caltech-researchers-find-evidence-real-ninth-planet-49523
https://science.nasa.gov/dwarf-planets/eris/
https://science.nasa.gov/solar-system/planet-x/
https://www.space.com/planet-9-mystery-deepens-gravity-theory

Find more interesting science articles at https://projectcleris.org