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The field of neuroscience is rapidly expanding day by day. Study dopamine in the mesolimbic and nigrostriatal pathways; explore shattered brains in traumatic brain injuries; and delve into the mechanics of motion. Neuroscience Articles The field of neuroscience is rapidly expanding day by day. Study dopamine in the mesolimbic and nigrostriatal pathways; explore shattered brains in traumatic brain injuries; and delve into the mechanics of motion. You may also like: Biology , Immunology , Medicine Dopamine in the movement and reward pathways Aka the mesolimbic and nigrostriatal pathways Pseudo-Angelman syndrome A rare neurological disease that causes intellectual deficits. Article #10 in a series on Rare diseases. What does depression do to your brain? The biological explanation of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Article #1 in a series on psychiatric disorders and the brain. Neuroimaging and spatial resolution Which type of brain scan has it all? Beyond the bump A breakdown on traumatic brain injuries How does physical health affect mental health? The effects of exercise on the nervous system Mastering motion Looking at reflex, rhythmic and complex movements The brain of a bully The neurological basis of bullying Inside out: the chemistry of depression The role of neurotransmitters. Article #2 in a series on psychiatric disorders and the brain. Vertigo Physiology, causes, relevance Why brain injuries affect adult and children differently Differences in anatomical development, brain plasticity and learning stages are main reasons why Does being bilingual make you smarter? Looking at the neurological basis of bilingualism and multilingualism Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic disorder that affects the trigeminal nerve (CN V)- responsible for facial sensation What a new study says about smoking and trigeminal neuralgia Previous

Psychology delves into the human mind and behaviour. Read on for compelling articles ranging from reward sensitivity to evolutionary, and empathy-altruism theories. Discover the psychology of emotions: embarrassment, and aggression. Psychology Articles Psychology delves into the human mind and behaviour. Read on for compelling articles ranging from reward sensitivity to evolutionary, and empathy-altruism theories. Discover the psychology of emotions: embarrassment, and aggression. You may also like: Biology, Medicine Motivating the mind Effect of socioeconomic status on reward sensitivity The evolutionary theory by Darwin vs empathy-altruism Explaining altruism through different theories A perspective on well-being Hedonic vs eudaimonic: based on the principles of Aristotle and Aristippus Nature vs. nurture in childhood intelligence What matters most? The psychology of embarrassment Why do we feel this emotion? Models and theories A primer on the Mutualism theory of intelligence A detailed review on different studies Unmasking aggression Is this fierce emotion the result of personal, or social triggers? Mental health strategies Raising awareness to look after mental health Imposter syndrome in STEM Have you ever had this feeling in your STEM education or job? Mental health in the South Asian community Why is it not yet such an open discussion? The cognitive orchestra How music can manipulate emotional processes The attentional blink An exploration of this concept in rapid serial visual presentation studies Postpartum depression in adolescent mothers An analysis of risk and protective factors Can we really 'rewire' our brain? What is neuroplasticity?

Synaptic plasticity is the process of connections within the brain changing to adapt to new information over time. It is of increasing significance in neuroscience, especially in the field of memory. Early research into synaptic plasticity was conducted by many of those Go Back Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Our understanding of how the brain forms connections between things we’ve learnt, and how London taxi drivers fit in Last updated: 01/03/26 Published: 05/01/23 Synaptic plasticity is the process of connections within the brain changing to adapt to new information over time. It is of increasing significance in neuroscience, especially in the field of memory. Early research into synaptic plasticity was conducted by many of those now considered the pioneers of neuroscience. For instance, Terje Lomo (1966) experimented on rabbit hippocampus with repeated, high-frequency stimulation, identifying long term potentiation, the persistent strengthening of synapses leading to enduring increases in signal transmission between neurons. Prior to work by Lomo, Ramon y Cajal (1911) proposed the idea that the strength of synaptic connections had to change to alter existing memories. One key question which is pertinent for both humans and other animals alike is how to keep track of our surroundings - how do our memories encode and store information on the places we visit so we can remember the directions for next time? Seminal work by Maguire et al., (2001) assessed whether physical changes “could be detected in the healthy brain” of London taxi drivers, given the repertoire of spatial experience required to navigate London without aid. Sixteen taxi drivers were studied with fifty controls. Using (structural) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), it was found that taxi drivers’ posterior hippocampi were larger than that of control subjects, and the more experience the drivers had, the greater the size of their right posterior hippocampi. Such changes in tissue volume take place gradually over time, because of task-related training. Recent work by Spiers et al., (2022) looked at the difference in spatial navigational ability between city-dwellers and those living in rural areas. A subset of ~400,000 participants from 38 countries played a video game to test their skill in spatial navigation, with city-dwellers performing worse than those who grew up outside cities. More specifically, individuals were better at navigating in environments that were topologically like where they grew up. Hence, one interpretation of these results is that the place where a person grows up impacts their ability to accurately navigate new, unfamiliar environments since this is based on the synaptic connections made between existing information in the brain. In conclusion, synaptic plasticity is the change in connections in the brain over time; interest and research in this field, especially spatial navigation, are increasing significantly. Written by Manisha Halkhoree Full article published in Brain Insights- BNA Bulletin (Issue no. 96, Autumn 2022) Related articles: Brain plasticity / The wonders of the human brain / The brain-climate connection / Why brain injuries affect adults and children differently REFERENCES Nicoll, R. A Brief History of Long-Term Potentiation. Neuron. 2017 Jan 18; 93(2): 281-290. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0896627316309576 Maguire E, Gadian D, Johnsrude I, et. al. Navigation-related structural change in the hippocampi of taxi drivers. Proc Natl Sci U S A. 2000 Apr 11; 97(8): 4398–4403. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC18253/ Coutrot A, Manley E, Goodroe S., et. al. Entropy of city street networks linked to future spatial navigation ability. Nature. 2022 March 30; Nature 604: 104-110. Available from: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-022-04486-7

Lung cancer can be defined as the uncontrollable growth of abnormal epithelial cells that make up the lung. Smoking is known to be a main risk factor of lung cancer being responsible for at least 70% of lung cancer cases. Go back Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Smoking cessation interventions Last updated: 01/03/26 Published: 10/03/23 Lung cancer can be defined as the uncontrollable growth of abnormal epithelial cells that make up the lung. Smoking is known to be a main risk factor of lung cancer being responsible for at least 70% of lung cancer cases. Burning cigarettes release multiple mutagens and carcinogens which are absorbed and metabolised by the body to cause cancer. The incidence of lung cancer is increasingly becoming worrying due to its high preventability rate of 79% according to the National Cancer Research Institute. This highlights the importance of reducing the incidence of lung cancer and consequently the deaths caused by it and the burden on the NHS and economy. There recently has been a surge in the use of E-cigarettes in comparison to cessation clinics as a cessation tool to prevent lung cancer. Clearly, there is a need to determine the effectiveness of E-cigarettes being used as a smoking cessation tool. Over the years researchers have investigated different cessation techniques such as specialist clinics, therapy, and patches. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the effectiveness of e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation tool to prevent cancer in primary care. The research suggests that E-cigarettes are more commonly and successfully being used as an effective smoking cessation tool in primary care. The research also suggests that the implementation of smoking cessation clinics has helped to reduce the prevalence of smoking. Both E-cigarettes and smoking cessation clinics are useful in reducing the prevalence of smoking and therefore the incidence of lung cancer. However, it is important to acknowledge some of the carcinogens that E-cigarettes possess such as nicotine which can adversely promote cancer growth. This begs the question of the efficacy of E-cigarettes in reducing lung cancer incidence. Predominantly not smoking at all remains the safest option to reduce the chances of lung cancer. Nonetheless, the reduction in funding for Smoking Cessation clinics in primary care should be reviewed given that it was an effective enough strategy in reducing lung cancer incidence. More research (particularly longitudinal studies) is also required into the efficacy of E-cigarettes in reducing lung cancer incidence and the potential long-term effects they could have. Written by Latilda Ajani Related articles: Genetics of excessive smoking and drinking / Smoking and trigeminal neuralgia

Elements, compounds, and mixtures make up the building blocks of materials that shape our world. Read on to uncover the latest contributions in chemistry, such as advances in mass spectrometry and quantum chemistry. Chemistry Articles Elements, compounds, and mixtures make up the building blocks of materials that shape our world. Read on to uncover the latest contributions in chemistry, such as advances in mass spectrometry and quantum chemistry. You may also like: Medicine , Pharmacology Advances in mass spectrometry Analytical chemistry Bioorthogonal chemistry Chemical reactions with high yields Polypharmacy Multiple medications Plastics and their environmental impact The same property that makes plastics so strong endangers the environment Quantum chemistry A relatively new field of chemistry Nanomedicine and targeted drug delivery An overview as to why nanoparticles are suitable for drug delivery Nanogels Smarter drug delivery The importance of symmetry in chemistry Symmetry in spectroscopy, reaction mechanisms and bonding Not all chemists wear white coats Computational organic chemistry Molecular blueprints: the art of synthetic planning Article #1 in a two-part series on retrosynthesis. Looking at the rare earth elements These comprise the lanthanide series as well as scandium (Sc) and yttrium (Y), and are characterised by the similarity of their chemical properties. Molecular blueprints: the synthesis of ibuprofen Article #2 in a two-part series on retrosynthesis. Diels-Alder reaction A reaction that shows the importance of symmetry in chemistry The heteroelements Heteroelements, defined as elements other than C or H, frequently include the p-block elements Previous

A short exploration of the genetic predisposition behind human behaviours Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Can we blame our genes for excessive smoking and drinking? 07/05/26, 18:37 Last updated: Published: 13/01/24, 15:33 A short exploration of the genetic predisposition behind human behaviours The advancing research on how tobacco, alcohol addictions, and other detrimental behaviors are consequences of complex interplays between genetic and environmental factors has gradually developed and gained credibility. A collaborative effort involving over 100 international scientists, including researchers from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), embarked on a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to explore the heritable traits associated with tobacco and alcohol addiction. The study analyzed data from a sample size of 1.2 million biobanks, epidemiological research, and genetic testing companies, shedding light on the relationship between genetics and addiction behaviors. Researchers discovered that phenotypes related to smoking, such as when individuals began smoking habits, are genetically correlated with various diseases. In contrast, increased genetic risk for alcohol consumption is linked to reduced risk of many diseases. Previous studies pinpointed 10 genes involved in the risk of tobacco and alcohol addiction. In addition, this study further contributed to genetic links by identifying more than 400 locations in the genomes with over 500 variants associated with critical functions involving dopamine regulation, glutamate transmission and acetylcholine activation in the brain. Another study involving 3.4 million people with diverse ancestries suggested that approximately 3,823 genetic variants may impact addiction behaviors, with specific variants associated with the age at which individuals start smoking and the number of cigarettes or alcoholic drinks consumed. These studies could indicate a future where genetic screening for genes relevant to addiction behaviors is available, and this could be especially useful for those with relatives involved in certain addictions. Furthermore, it also provides perspective on whether certain genes can increase the likelihood of addiction to illegal drugs like cocaine, heroin or MDMA. However, increasing people’s awareness of whether they are at risk of developing addictions may be insufficient in deterring them from pursuing risky behaviors, which suggests that genetic screening for these genes would be beneficial as an optional screening assessment for individuals. While the influence of environmental and social factors on tobacco and alcohol addictions has long been acknowledged and explored, these studies underscore the significant role genetics plays in determining an individual’s susceptibility to nicotine and alcohol dependence. The prospect of predicting a person’s risk of addiction can lead to early interventions. Furthermore, it prevents countless health-related fatalities associated with smoking and alcoholic beverages. This primary prevention provides a different aspect to risk factors for smoking and alcohol addiction while also reducing the burden of these highly prevalent public health concerns. Written by Maya El Toukhy Related articles: Smoking cessation / Smoking and trigeminal neuralgia References: New Scientist (n.d.). Thousands of genetic variants may influence smoking and alcohol use. [online] New Scientist. Available at: https://www.newscientist.com/article/2350516thousandsofgenetic-variants-may-influence-smoking-and-alcohol-use/ [Accessed 23 Oct. 2023]. Today’s Clinical Lab. (n.d.). Do Your Genes Predispose You to Smoking and Drinking? [online] Available at: https://www.clinicallab.com/do-your-genes-predispose-you-tosmokinganddrinking-26963 [Accessed 23 Oct. 2023]. University of Minnesota. (2019). Hundreds of genes affecting tobacco and alcohol use discovered. [online] Available at: https://twin-cities.umn.edu/newsevents/hundredsgenesaffecting-tobacco-and-alcohol-use-discovered [Accessed 23 Oct. 2023]. Schlaepfer, I., Hoft, N. and Ehringer, M. (2008). The Genetic Components of Alcohol and Nicotine Co-Addiction: From Genes to Behavior. Current Drug Abuse Reviewse, 1(2), pp.124– 134. doi: https://doi.org/10.2174/1874473710801020124 . Project Gallery

The main difference between children and adults lies in what needs to be rebuilt Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Why brain injuries affect children and adults differently Last updated: 07/05/26, 18:32 Published: 13/11/25, 08:00 The main difference between children and adults lies in what needs to be rebuilt When we think about a brain injury, it is easy to assume that the same thing happens in everyone; a bump to the head, swelling, and hopefully a recovery. In reality, things aren’t quite that simple. A child’s brain is not a smaller version of an adult’s, it is still developing, which makes it both incredibly adaptable and, at the same time, especially vulnerable. Smaller bodies, bigger risks Although the brain’s basic reaction to injury is similar in children and adults, injuries in younger people tend to cause more widespread and severe damage. This is due to the differences in anatomical development. Children’s heads are proportionally larger compared to the rest of their bodies, and their neck muscles are much weaker than those of adults. This means that when a child falls or is knocked, their head can move suddenly and forcefully, placing extra strain on the brain. On top of that, children’s brains have a higher water content and are softer in texture, which makes them more vulnerable to rotational forces and acceleration-deceleration injuries. These types of movements can lead to diffuse axonal injury, where nerve fibres are torn across large areas, and cerebral swelling, both of which are less common in adults experiencing similar trauma. A clear example of this vulnerability is seen in abusive head trauma. When an infant is shaken, their softer skull and brain structure can lead to a combination of skull fractures, internal bleeding, and swelling. Sadly, these injuries are often linked to very poor outcomes. The double-edged sword of brain plasticity One of the most remarkable things about the young brain is its plasticity, which is its ability to reorganise itself and form new connections after injury. This flexibility often means that children recover some functions, such as movement or daily activities, more quickly than adults do in the early months after a brain injury. However, this adaptability has limits. During childhood, the brain is constantly developing new skills and abilities. If an injury occurs during one of these critical periods, it can interrupt processes essential for normal development. This means that difficulties might not appear straight away. A child could seem to recover well at first but then struggle later when their brain is expected to handle more complex tasks, such as problem-solving or emotional regulation. Over time, recovery often plateaus, and children may continue to face long-term challenges with learning, behaviour, and social interaction. Research also shows that injury severity is a major factor in long-term outcomes. Children who suffer severe traumatic brain injuries are more likely to experience lower academic performance and, later in life, face higher rates of unemployment or lower paid work compared with their peers. Behaviour, learning and life after injury Brain injuries in childhood can also affect behaviour and mental health. Conditions such as ADHD are especially common following injury, affecting between 20-50% of children. These difficulties can make returning to school and social life far more challenging. Children from lower socioeconomic backgrounds often experience extra barriers, including limited access to rehabilitation and educational support. This can increase the risk of social isolation and mental health difficulties. Children are also more likely than adults to develop secondary brain conditions, such as epilepsy, after an injury which adds further complexity to their recovery. Why recovery is not the same The main difference between children and adults lies in what needs to be rebuilt. Adults are generally trying to re-learn skills they already had, while children are still learning those skills for the first time. That makes recovery a much more delicate and unpredictable process. Moreover, most rehabilitation is concentrated in the first few months after the injury, but children’s challenges often become clearer years later, when their brains, and the demands placed on them, have developed further. In summary The developing brain is both fragile and flexible . While its biological features make it more prone to injury, its capacity for plasticity allows for impressive short-term recovery. Yet the same developmental processes that support growth also make it more vulnerable to long-term disruption. Injuries sustained during childhood can alter the course of brain development, leading to lasting effects on thinking, learning, and behaviour. These consequences can shape a person’s future long after the initial recovery period has ended. Understanding these differences is crucial, not just for doctors, but also for teachers, parents, and anyone supporting a young person recovering from a brain injury. Written by Alice Greenan Related articles: Synaptic plasticity / Brain plasticity / Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) / Childhood intelligence REFERENCES Anderson, V. (2005). Functional Plasticity or Vulnerability After Early Brain Injury? PEDIATRICS , 116 (6), 1374–1382. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2004-1728 Anderson, V., Brown, S., Newitt, H., & Hoile, H. (2011). Long-term outcome from childhood traumatic brain injury: Intellectual ability, personality, and quality of life. Neuropsychology , 25 (2), 176–184. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0021217 Anderson, V., & Yeates, K. O. (2010). Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury. In Cambridge University Press eBooks . Cambridge University Press. https://doi.org/10.1017/cbo9780511676383 ARAKI, T., YOKOTA, H., & MORITA, A. (2017). Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury: Characteristic Features, Diagnosis, and Management. Neurologia Medico-Chirurgica , 57 (2), 82–93. https://doi.org/10.2176/nmc.ra.2016-0191 Blackwell, L. S., & Grell, R. M. (2023). Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury: Impact on the Developing Brain. Pediatric Neurology . https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2023.06.019 Figaji, A. A. (2017). Anatomical and Physiological Differences between Children and Adults Relevant to Traumatic Brain Injury and the Implications for Clinical Assessment and Care. Frontiers in Neurology , 8 (685). https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2017.00685 Manfield, J., Oakley, K., Macey, J.-A., & Waugh, M.-C. (2021). Understanding the Five-Year Outcomes of Abusive Head Trauma in Children: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Developmental Neurorehabilitation , 24 (6), 1–7. https://doi.org/10.1080/17518423.2020.1869340 Narad, M. E., Kaizar, E. E., Zhang, N., Taylor, H. G., Yeates, K. O., Kurowski, B. G., & Wade, S. L. (2022). The Impact of Preinjury and Secondary Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder on Outcomes After Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury. Journal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics , 43 (6), e361–e369. https://doi.org/10.1097/dbp.0000000000001067 Neumane, S., Câmara-Costa, H., Francillette, L., Araujo, M., Toure, H., Brugel, D., Laurent-Vannier, A., Ewing-Cobbs, L., Meyer, P., Dellatolas, G., Watier, L., & Chevignard, M. (2021). Functional outcome after severe childhood traumatic brain injury: Results of the TGE prospective longitudinal study. Annals of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine , 64 (1), 101375. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rehab.2020.01.008 Parker, K. N., Donovan, M. H., Smith, K., & Noble-Haeusslein, L. J. (2021). Traumatic Injury to the Developing Brain: Emerging Relationship to Early Life Stress. Frontiers in Neurology , 12 . https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2021.708800 Project Gallery

The current conflict has caused unfathomable mental distress and health problems for the Kashmiri people Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Health gaps in conflict-affected Kashmir Last updated: 18/09/25, 08:41 Published: 17/07/25, 07:00 The current conflict has caused unfathomable mental distress and health problems for the Kashmiri people This is article no. 5 in a series about global health injustices. Previous article: Syria and Lebanon ’s diverging yet connected struggles . Next article: Health inequalities in Bangladesh . Introduction Welcome to the fifth article of the Global Health Injustices Series. The previous article was a collaborative endeavour focused on the populations in Syria and Lebanon. Now, I will focus on the people living in Kashmir, who are currently experiencing a lot of health and wellbeing challenges, primarily attributed to conflict. For example, on top of the enduring conflict in Kashmir, the COVID-19 pandemic had worsened the mental health of the Kashmiri population, where 1.8 million adults were living with any type of mental distress. Despite these concerns, the Kashmiri people have not had their voices heard as clearly in mainstream discourse compared to other vulnerable populations discussed in previous articles. Kashmir: a rich history to current conflict Kashmir (also known as Jammu & Kashmir) is a region within the Northern Indian subcontinent, bordered mainly by Pakistan and China. Kashmir is a disputed territory between the militaries of India and Pakistan since the Indian subcontinent was divided up by the British Empire in 1947. Even before that, conflicts were driven by issues with local governments and tensions between cultural and ethnic groups within the region. These issues, among others, have contributed to the instability and health challenges encountered by the Kashmiri people. In recent years, tensions and violence have accelerated, particularly in 2024, due to the Indian government wanting to maintain control of the Kashmiri region. This has led to vast protests and friction between civilians and armed forces. In turn, this has weakened ties within the region, particularly between India and neighbouring nations. Another overlooked impact (which I will be discussing further) of this current conflict is on Kashmiri women, who encounter certain challenges, which include loss of family members, displacement and Gender-Based Violence. Considering this background of Kashmir is crucial because it will help with understanding the current geopolitical climate and how it detrimentally affects the health of the Kashmiri people. Geopolitics and health in Kashmir Similar to the populations discussed in previous articles, the Kashmiri people are encountering a lot of mental distress attributed to the ongoing conflict. One study from 2009 found that the prevalence of depression was 55.72%. Meanwhile, another study from 2017 uncovered that approximately 45% of adults experienced mental distress, with specific rates of 41% for depression, 26% for anxiety, and 19% for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This difference presumably came from wider geopolitical factors, as measuring mental health is challenging during conflict. As such, the healthcare system in Kashmir needs urgent improvement to better support mental health. Even though it does better in some areas compared to the national average, the demand for services, especially in conflict-affected areas, is overwhelming. There are not enough mental health professionals, and many healthcare providers lack the training to handle trauma-related issues properly. Investing in training, community mental health initiatives, and integrating mental health services with regular healthcare could help improve the overall mental health of the Kashmiri people. Focusing on mental health just as much as physical health to build resilience in Kashmir is essential. As for the health infrastructure in Kashmir, noted in one review, they have 4433 government health institutions and a doctor-patient ratio of 1:1880, which is lower than the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendation of 1:1000, yet higher than the national level of 1:2000. Moreover, the state of Kashmir was shown to have better health indices compared to the national average, including life expectancy, infant mortality rate, and crude birth and death rates. Despite these improvements, challenges persist, such as the inadequate health infrastructure and a shortage of financial resources and technical staff, despite relatively stable trends ( Table 1 ). In one study, the authors noted that among the Schedule tribes in Kashmir, they encounter significant health challenges attributed to illiteracy, poverty, and inadequate healthcare facilities and infrastructure, leading to increased non-communicable diseases (NCDs). There is a high prevalence of poor nutrition and undernutrition, which contributes to the susceptibility of these populations to NCDs (7). Moreover, a lack of access to clean water and sanitation worsens health issues, which increases their risk of infectious diseases. Social taboos and beliefs hinder healthcare service utilisation among the population, which impacts health outcomes and even awareness of NCDs ( Figure 1 ). Focusing on violence exposure in Kashmir, another study among households found that respondents documented high levels of violence, which include: exposure to crossfire (85.7%), round-up raids (82.7%), witnessing torture (66.9%), experiences of rape (13.3%) and forced labor (33.7%). What this study also found was that males noted more violent confrontations and had higher odds of experiencing different forms of maltreatment compared to females. Given that this study was conducted in 2008, these figures are likely to be either higher or lower now, depending on the magnitude of violence and warfare. Nonetheless, the high frequency of violence has led to substantial health issues, specifically mental health problems among the affected Kashmiri population. A severely overlooked impact of conflict in Kashmir is on the women, who encounter specific tragedies, including loss of family members and displacement. Moreover, the use of rape as a weapon in conflict stresses the convergence of gender and political power, particularly in Kashmir. Unfortunately, there have been some researchers who usually depict Kashmiri women as solely victims, which can undermine their autonomy and political involvement. Therefore, addressing the plight of Kashmiri women by allowing them to discuss their experiences openly and actively involving them in key decisions regarding Kashmir can be a vital stepping stone towards supporting their health and well-being. To truly understand all of the various health challenges illustrated above impacting the Kashmiri population, it is vital to cite the various geopolitical factors I discussed in previous articles on Yemen, Sudan and Palestine. The most notable factor is the continuous international weapons/ arms trade, which I firmly believe must be thwarted because of how much damage it has caused, particularly through the sale of bombs and other explosives used to target the most vulnerable populations. However, stopping this trade requires actual political will and legislation, which is unlikely to happen anytime soon because our leaders make a lot of profit from selling weapons. NGOs: their role in supporting Kashmir International non-governmental organisations (INGOs), notably Aakar Patel, chair of board at Amnesty International India, shared this statement in 2024 regarding Kashmir: The Indian authorities are using arbitrary restrictions and punitive actions to create a climate of fear in Jammu and Kashmir. Anyone daring to speak out – whether to criticize the government or to stand up for human rights – faces a clampdown on their rights to freedom of expression and association and cannot move freely within and outside the country. Amnesty International also shared testimonies from a few Kashmiri people: I feel a deep responsibility to be the voice of my people, who are currently voiceless. There are no stories coming out of Kashmir anymore. - Masrat Zahra, an award-winning Kashmiri photojournalist. My freedom of movement is a right enshrined in the Indian Constitution, but I had to really struggle to exercise this right. - Iltija Mufti, daughter and media advisor to ex-chief minister of Jammu & Kashmir. To address the complex health and social issues previously discussed, international organisations and local communities need to come together for solutions. Programs focusing on building mental health support, improving healthcare availability, and creating safe spaces for women and young people can make a difference. The Kashmiri people need to have their voices heard in discussions about their health and wellbeing. Otherwise, their challenges will continue to affect their lives. Conclusion Overall, the health and well-being issues in Kashmir are closely linked to the long-standing conflict and warfare. Although this region has a rich cultural history and shows a lot of resilience, the current conflict has caused unfathomable mental distress and health problems for the Kashmiri people. The rise in mental health issues and the inadequate healthcare infrastructure illustrate that reforms are urgently needed. There is a real shortage of support for mental health, particularly when dealing with the trauma from ongoing violence. Moreover, marginalised groups face tremendous health challenges because of various factors ranging from poverty to a lack of education to limited access to basic needs. Living in violence and conflict not only affects physical health, but also leads to ongoing psychological trauma that is often ignored. Tackling these health inequalities and inequities requires a comprehensive approach incorporating mental health care into the standard healthcare system, improving access to clean water and food, and building communities. Listening to the Kashmiri people and focusing on their health needs is key to achieving peace and better living standards in the region. Therefore, national and international players must recognise these issues and take real action to ensure they receive the support they need and deserve. Only with continued efforts can we expect a healthier future for Kashmir. The following article in the Global Health Injustices series will focus on Bangladesh and the plight of the Rohingya population, which will also be a collaborative endeavour. Written by Sam Jarada Related articles: Impacts of global warming on dengue fever / Understanding health through different stances / South Asian famine / South Asian mental health REFERENCES Sheikh Shoib, Arafat SMY. Mental health in Kashmir: conflict to COVID-19. Public Health. 2020 Sep 1;187:65–6. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7484691/ Center for Preventive Action. Conflict Between India and Pakistan. Global Conflict Tracker. 2015. Available from: https://www.cfr.org/global-conflict-tracker/conflict/conflict-between-india-and-pakistan Zeeshan S, Hanife Aliefendioğlu. Kashmiri women in conflict: a feminist perspective. Humanities and Social Sciences Communications. 2024 Feb 12;11(1). Available from: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41599-024-02742-x Amin S, Khan A. Life in conflict: Characteristics of Depression in Kashmir. International Journal of Health Sciences. 2009 Jul;3(2):213. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3068807/ Housen T, Lenglet A, Ariti C, Shah S, Shah H, Ara S, et al. Prevalence of anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder in the Kashmir Valley. BMJ Global Health. 2017 Oct;2(4):e000419. Available from: https://gh.bmj.com/content/2/4/e000419 Mir A, Bhat S. Health Status and Access to Health Care Services in Jammu and Kashmir State. Asian Review of Social Sciences [Internet]. 2018;7(3):52–7. Available from: https://www.trp.org.in/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/ARSS-Vol.7-No.3-October-December-2018-pp.52-57.pdf Habib A, Iqbal A, Rafiq H, Shah A, Amin S, Suheena, et al. Trends in the Magnitude of NCDs among Schedule Tribe Population of Kashmir with Special Reference to Health and Nutritional [Internet]. Journal of Community Medicine & Public Health. Gavin Publishers; 2023 [cited 2025 May 5]. Available from: https://www.gavinpublishers.com/article/view/trends-in-the-magnitude-of-ncds-among-schedule-tribe-population-of-kashmir-with-special-reference-to-health-and-nutritional Jong K de, Ford N, van, Kamalini Lokuge, Fromm S, Galen R van, et al. Conflict in the Indian Kashmir Valley I: exposure to violence. Conflict and Health [Internet]. 2008 Oct 14 [cited 2025 May 5];2(1). Available from: https://conflictandhealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1752-1505-2-10 Authorities must end repression of dissent in Jammu and Kashmir [Internet]. Amnesty International. 2024 [cited 2025 Jun 11]. Available from: https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2024/09/india-authorities-must-end-repression-of-dissent-in-jammu-and-kashmir/ Project Gallery

The potential of MSCs to treat diseases like rheumatoid arthritis Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The role of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in regenerative medicine 23/10/25, 10:18 Last updated: Published: 28/11/24, 15:16 The potential of MSCs to treat diseases like rheumatoid arthritis This is article no. 2 in a three-part series on stem cells. Next article: Regulation and policy of stem cell research . Previous article: An introduction to stem cells . Welcome to the second article in a series of three articles about stem cells. I will explore mesenchymal stem cells and their role in regenerative medicine in this article. Additionally, I will consider the potential of mesenchymal stem cells in treating three different diseases: multiple sclerosis (MS), rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Consider reading Article 1 for more information on mesenchymal stem cells! Multiple sclerosis (MS) Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease affecting the brain and spinal cord. It can cause symptoms such as muscle stiffness and spasms, problems with balance and coordination, vision problems and more. According to the Multiple Sclerosis Society UK (MS Society UK), it is estimated that there are around 150,000 people with MS in the UK, with nearly 7,100 people being newly diagnosed every year. Scientists have found that MSCs can be used to treat some of the symptoms of MS as MSCs protect the nerves in the CNS by secreting substances called neurotrophic growth factors, which increase nerve growth and the survival of nerve cells. These neurotrophic growth factors can also repair damaged nerves, improving nerve function. However, the exact mechanisms of this are still being studied. Furthermore, MSCs can activate the brain's natural healing mechanisms by stimulating the brain's stem cells to become active and repair the damaged tissue. This results in patients having a reduction in symptoms and the severity of the symptoms, improving the quality of life for those with MS. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease affecting the joints. The charity Versus Arthritis has said there are around 400,000 adults aged 16 and over affected by RA in the UK. Scientists have found that MSCs can reduce inflammation in the joints as they have immunomodulatory properties, so they can regulate the immune system's abnormal responses that cause RA. MSCs suppress immune cell activity, resulting in a decrease in inflammation and joint damage. In addition, MSCs can migrate (travel) to the inflamed joints and release anti-inflammatory molecules, reducing joint swelling and pain. This results in patients having a reduction in pain and joint swelling, improving the quality of life for those with RA. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an umbrella term for chronic inflammatory digestive diseases, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease (CD), affecting the gastrointestinal tract. A study by the University of Nottingham estimates that 500,000 people in the UK are living with IBD. Scientists have found that MSCs can reduce inflammation and increase tissue repair in the gastrointestinal tract. This is because MSCs can migrate to sites of inflammation in the gut, where they can replace damaged tissue cells. MSCs release signalling molecules that regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation. They can even directly interact with immune cells in the gut, influencing their behaviour and decreasing the inflammatory response. Also, MSCs can transfer mitochondria to damaged cells through cell fusion, helping the damaged cells function better and reduce inflammation. This results in reduced inflammation in patients, improving the quality of life for those with IBD. Looking to the future MS, RA and IBD are just three of the multiple diseases MSCs can target, and while there are many refinements to be made for MSCs to become more viable as treatment options, current findings show promising results. With further development, including more research to understand the exact biology of MSCs, there is massive potential for this method to revolutionise the treatment of various diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, liver diseases and cancer. As stem cell research continues to advance, policies must also adapt to this changing landscape; watch out for the last article in the series, where I will discuss the regulation and policy of stem cell research! Written by Naoshin Haque Related articles: The biggest innovations in the biosciences / Neuromyelitis optica and MS / Crohn's disease Project Gallery

The rabies virus infects neurons Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Rabies- the scariest disease ever? 10/07/25, 10:31 Last updated: Published: 10/10/24, 11:05 The rabies virus infects neurons Rabies is a viral disease that primarily affects the central nervous system (CNS), usually in mammals. Wild animals such as foxes, dogs, and raccoons are frequent carriers of the virus. Transmission occurs through the saliva of an infected animal through a bite or a scratch, allowing the virus to enter the body and travel through the nervous system toward the brain. While rabies can be prevented with a vaccine, once symptoms begin to show, the disease is nearly always fatal once symptoms begin to show. What makes this virus so deadly, and how can it take control of the human body with just five genes in its genome? Why is the virus so hard to kill? To arrive at a sensible answer, we must first understand the ‘tropism’ of the virus – the cell type it likes to infect. Rabies virus infects the neurones (neurotropic), which creates a massive problem for the immune system. Macrophages and neutrophils, which are the prominent cells in killing foreign pathogens that kill foreign pathogens, usually deal collateral damage to the body’s own cells to some extent. This must be avoided with neurones, as neurones cannot replenish themselves after cell death. An inflammation of the nerve cells could lead to paralysis and seizures, compromising the CNS. As a result, the immune system response is significantly lowered around nerve cells to prevent accidental damage, which allows the virus to infect the neural pathway easily. Transmission of the virus See Figure 1 The strategy of the immune system is that the neurones can be protected if the pathogens are intercepted before they travel to their destination. However, this strategy ultimately fails when it comes to rabies, because the transmission is through a bite, which can penetrate and cut through many layers of tissue, providing a direct access to nerve cells. If you were bitten on the leg, then the time it takes for the rabies virus to travel to your brain would be the time it takes for you to travel from Florida, USA to Sweden. This may seem like a long time, but the rabies virus has evolved a technique that is able to hijack the cellular transport system can trick your cells’ transport system to travel quickly through the nerves by binding to a protein called dynein . Dynein is a motor protein that move along the microtubules in cells, converting the chemical energy of ATP into mechanical work. Microtubules are polarized structures, with a plus end (typically towards the axon terminal in neurones) and a minus end (towards the cell body). Dynein moves toward the minus end, facilitating retrograde transport, meaning it moves materials from the periphery of the cell, such as the axon terminals, back toward the cell body. Dynein is transports chemicals inside cells via endocytosis and plays a vital role in the movement of eukaryotic flagella. Rabies has evolved to stick to dynein via the Glycoprotein (G) present on its viral envelope, which allows rabies to travel to the brain much quicker. Dynein may be small, weighing around two megadaltons (3 x 10-18 grams), but it can move at a speed of 800 nanometres per second. At this speed, it takes rabies around 14 days to move up a metre- long neuron. This implies that the closer the animal bites you to the brain, the less time it takes for the symptoms to appear. If you’re bitten on the foot, it could take months for the virus to reach your brain. But if you’re bitten on the neck or face, the virus can get to your brain in just a few days, making it much more dangerous. This explains the broad range in the incubation time which is between 20 to 90 days. Infection and replication- see Figure 2 As the rabies travels through neuronal tracks, it sets up points of concentrated viral production centres called Negri bodies. These replicate the rabies virus within the neurones and inhibit interferon action, which are chemicals that alert white blood cells to the area of infection. Interferon inhibition along with lowered immune response to neurones make rabies extremely effective. However, neurones can undergo apoptosis—controlled cell death—to limit the spread of the virus and allow macrophages to clear the debris. Research in mice suggests that some strains of rabies may prevent this apoptotic response in cells. Additionally, studies indicate that rabies promotes apoptosis in killer T cells, which are responsible for inducing apoptosis in other cells. This mechanism helps to shield nerve cells from immune system attacks. Symptoms Patients with rabies initially experience flu-like symptoms and muscle pain. Once these early symptoms appear, treatment is virtually impossible. As the disease progresses, neurological symptoms develop including hydrophobia due to painful throat spasms when swallowing liquids. About 10 days after these neurological symptoms start, patients enter a coma, often accompanied by prolonged sleep apnoea. As virus attacks the brain throughout this stage, patients develop the urge to bite other organisms to transmit the virus. The virus can reach the salivary glands, allowing for transmission through a bite to occur again. Most patients typically die within three days of reaching this coma stage. Legends Rabies may have influenced the development of vampire and zombie myths due to its distinct symptoms. The disease causes aggression and sensitivity to light, which could have inspired some characteristics of vampires, such as their aversion to light and erratic movements. Additionally, rabies leads to excessive salivation and a tendency to bite, traits that align with vampire lore. Similarly, the delirium and motor dysfunction seen in rabies may have contributed to the depiction of zombies as shuffling, incoherent beings. Conclusion Rabies is a uniquely deadly virus due to its mechanism of hijacking the nervous system. After entering the body, the virus binds to dynein, using it to travel along neuronal pathways toward the brain. It replicates rapidly, forming Negri bodies disrupting neurone function. The virus effectively suppresses immune responses, making it nearly impossible to treat once symptoms appear, leading to almost 100% fatality. Beyond its biological impact, rabies has influenced cultural stories like those of vampires and zombies, with its symptoms—such as aggression, fear of water, and neurological decay—providing eerie parallels to these myths. Despite modern medical advances, rabies remains one of the most feared infectious diseases due to its fatal nature. Written by Baraytuk Aydin Related articles: Rare zoonotic diseases / rAAV gene therapy REFERENCES CUSABIO (2020) Rabies virus overview: Structure, transmission, pathogenesis, symptoms, etc, CUSABIO. Available at: https://www.cusabio.com/infectious-diseases/rabies-virus.html (Accessed: 12 September 2024). Hendricks, A.G. et al. (2012) Dynein tethers and stabilizes dynamic microtubule plus ends, Current biology : CB. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3347920/ (Accessed: 13 September 2024). Lahaye, X. et al. (2009) Functional Characterization of Negri Bodies (NBS) in rabies virus-infected cells: Evidence that NBS are sites of viral transcription and replication, Journal of virology. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2715764/ (Accessed: 13 September 2024). Tarantola, A. (2017) Four thousand years of concepts relating to rabies in animals and humans, its prevention and its cure , MDPI . Available at: https://www.mdpi.com/2414-6366/2/2/5 (Accessed: 15 September 2024). Project Gallery