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The functions of the cerebellum and the relationship with epilepsy
The discovery of the connection between the cerebellum and epilepsy could open new possibilities for the treatment of the disease. This part of our brain, which controls our movements independent of consciousness, is particularly interesting to science, as the neurons found within it, the Purkinje cells, may play a key role in the development of epileptic seizures. Researchers have now noted that influencing the ion channels located within these cells may offer new therapeutic approaches for treating this severe neurological condition. The Role of Purkinje Cells in the Cerebellum The Purkinje cells in the cerebellum have a unique structure resembling a branching tree. These neurons are closely interconnected, and although…
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Unlocking Our Brain is Not Always a Sign of Dullness
The relationship between memory and aging has always been an intriguing topic in scientific research. The memory of older adults can often seem muddled, especially when they struggle with recall difficulties. Various underlying reasons may contribute to this, and recent studies suggest that the issue does not solely stem from a decline in the brain’s capacity. Older individuals often attempt to process too much information, leading to confusion in their memory. Members of the older generation possess a wealth of experience and knowledge accumulated over the years. Nevertheless, they frequently perform worse on memory tests compared to younger individuals. This phenomenon has been more than just a simple paradox in…
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How Do Babies Acquire Knowledge?
The language learning abilities of infants are astonishing and manifest quite early. The latest research shows that babies acquire the grammatical rules of language at an incredible speed. The advancement of linguistic sciences enables us to better understand how infants respond to linguistic stimuli and how they process them. Infants’ brains are highly receptive to linguistic structures, which can be observed as early as four months of age. In studies, German infants were played Italian sentences, and EEG measurements indicated that babies can store syntactic relationships in less than fifteen minutes and can also respond to different linguistic patterns. This discovery sheds new light on the early stages of language…
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Treatment of Spinal Cord Injury Using mRNA Technology
The treatment of spinal cord injuries presents a significant challenge for science and medicine. The inflammatory processes that occur as a result of the injuries can damage not only the injured area but also the surrounding healthy tissues. Therefore, it is crucial to perform effective interventions as soon as possible. The time factor plays a prominent role in the success of recovery, as delays can further worsen the injured condition. To reduce inflammation and promote regeneration, numerous research efforts are underway worldwide. The Neuroregeneration Laboratory at the University of Szeged, led by Professor Antal Nógrádi, has been working for years on more effective treatments for spinal cord injuries. By applying…
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How does obesity affect the structure of children’s brains?
Childhood obesity is an increasingly concerning problem worldwide, affecting not only physical health but also brain development. Recent research suggests that certain areas of the brains of overweight or obese children, particularly the prefrontal cortex responsible for decision-making, may be thinner, leading to a decline in various cognitive skills. Discovering the connections between obesity and brain structure highlights the importance of preventing childhood obesity and emphasizes the need to start educating about a healthy lifestyle at an early age. Childhood obesity is not just an aesthetic issue; it carries serious health risks. Overweight children often exhibit a prefrontal cortex that falls below normal levels, which is the center for decision-making…
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Restoration of Peripheral Nerve Injuries
A peripheral neurological disease refers to disorders that occur outside the central nervous system, affecting the nerves that emerge from the spinal cord and the nerve-muscle connections. These issues typically manifest symptoms in the limbs and trunk, ranging from mild sensory disturbances to complete loss of movement and sensation. These complaints not only cause physical difficulties but can also significantly impact an individual’s daily life and quality of life. Involvement of peripheral nerves can occur for various reasons, such as accidents, inflammation, or muscle knots. Injuries often occur around the wrist and palm, while inflammatory processes can lead to pain and decreased function. Nerve compression can also cause serious problems,…
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Bilingualism boosts brain function in older age
The relationship between bilingualism and brain performance has long intrigued scientists, particularly in the older population. In recent years, numerous studies have examined how various linguistic abilities influence cognitive functions. The results indicate that individuals who have used two languages since childhood exhibit different brain functioning compared to those who speak only one language. Bilingualism affects not only language skills but also thinking and problem-solving, making it particularly important for maintaining mental sharpness in old age. Bilingual individuals’ brains generally respond more quickly to cognitive challenges and can switch between different tasks more efficiently. This phenomenon becomes especially interesting when examining the older generation, as cognitive decline is a natural…
