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REM Sleep, Stress Hormones, and the Overactive Amygdala: How Stress Disrupts Sleep

By SWA
Sleep is essential for overall health, but stress can significantly impact its quality—especially REM sleep , the stage associated with vivid dreams, memory consolidation, and emotional processing. When stress hormones like adrenaline, cortisol, and ACTH are elevated, they can disrupt REM sleep and overactivate the amygdala , the brain’s emotional center. This imbalance may lead to restless nights, frequent awakenings, and even nightmares. Understanding REM Sleep and Its Role in Brain Function REM ( Rapid Eye Movement ) sleep is one of the most important sleep stages, characterized by: Increased brain activity (similar to wakefulness) Vivid dreaming Muscle paralysis (atonia) to prevent acting out dreams Memory processing and emotional regulation REM sleep plays a crucial role in emotional well-being, but it is also highly sensitive to stress-related hormones. How High Cortisol, ACTH, and Adrenaline Disrupt REM Sleep 1. Cortisol: The Stress Hormone That Disrupts Sleep Cycles Cortisol...
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M Protein, C Protein, Factor V, and APS: Their Roles in Thrombosis and the Newly Identified VITT-Like Disorder

By SWA
Introduction Blood clotting is a tightly regulated process that involves numerous proteins, including M protein , Protein C , and Factor V . While these proteins have different functions, they all play a role in clotting disorders. Recent research has uncovered a chronic prothrombotic disorder linked to low levels of M protein , which acts as a VITT-like antibody targeting platelet factor 4 (PF4) . This condition, now referred to as VITT-like Monoclonal Gammopathy of Thrombotic Significance (MGTS) , represents a new disease category requiring specialized treatment approaches. This article explores the roles of M protein, Protein C, Factor V, and APS (Antiphospholipid Syndrome) in thrombosis and how they connect to this newly identified disorder. VITT-like Monoclonal Gammopathy of Thrombotic Significance https://www.nejm.org/doi/10.1056/NEJMoa2415930 Understanding M Protein: A Marker of Plasma Cell Disorders What is M Protein? M protein (monoclonal protein) is an abnormal immunoglobu...
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Carl Jung on the Hidden Shadows of Human Behavior: How Unconscious Motives Shape Contempt, Sabotage, and Silent Rivalries

By SWA
Carl Gustav Jung did not explicitly list these behaviors in a single book or publication, but he did discuss many of these psychological dynamics throughout his work, especially in relation to shadow psychology, archetypes, and interpersonal relationships . Below are some key works where he touches on these themes:   1. Contempt Described as Irony Jung often discussed irony, sarcasm, and contempt in relation to the persona and the shadow . He described how individuals use irony as a defense mechanism to mask deeper insecurities or to passive-aggressively express hostility . Jung saw irony and sarcasm as defense mechanisms that mask deeper hostility or inner conflict . He believed that when people mock others in a detached, ironic way , they often conceal their own unresolved emotions or inferiority complexes . Key Jungian Concepts: Shadow Projection: A person may mock what they secretly fear or dislike in themselves. Persona vs. Shadow Conflict: If someone's public persona i...
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Celiac Disease and Its Impact on Muscle Function

By SWA
Celiac disease (CD) is a chronic autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten consumption, leading to damage in the small intestine. While it is primarily known for causing digestive issues, CD can also have significant effects on muscle function. This occurs due to chronic inflammation, malabsorption of key nutrients, and immune system dysfunction. Below, we explore the different ways in which celiac disease can contribute to muscle weakness, pain, and reduced physical performance. 1. Malabsorption of Key Nutrients Since celiac disease damages the small intestine, it impairs the absorption of essential nutrients crucial for muscle health. These deficiencies can significantly impact muscle function: Protein – Needed for muscle repair and growth; inadequate intake can lead to muscle loss. Iron – Low levels can cause anemia, leading to fatigue and muscle weakness. Vitamin D & Calcium – Essential for muscle contraction and bone health; deficiencies can result in muscle pain, weakness, a...
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Polycythemia Vera (PV): Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and the Role of JAK2 Mutations

By SWA
Polycythemia Vera (PV) is a rare myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) characterized by the overproduction of red blood cells in the bone marrow. This excessive production thickens the blood, increasing the risk of blood clots, strokes, and heart attacks . In addition to red blood cells, PV can also lead to an abnormal increase in white blood cells and platelets , further complicating disease progression. Causes & Risk Factors PV is primarily caused by a mutation in the JAK2 (Janus Kinase 2) gene , which plays a crucial role in regulating blood cell production. While the exact trigger for this mutation is not fully understood, it is considered an acquired genetic change rather than an inherited disorder. Risk Factors for PV: ✔ Age : PV is most common in individuals over 60 years old . ✔ Sex : Men are slightly more likely to develop PV than women. ✔ Family History : Although not inherited , having a relative with PV or another MPN may slightly increase risk. Symptoms of Polycythemia V...
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