Q&A about health and research

White matter in the brain consists of nerve fibers (axons) coated with myelin, a fatty substance that facilitates communication between different brain regions. Damage to white matter can result from conditions such as trauma, lead poisoning, multiple sclerosis (MS), stroke, or chronic stress . While white matter regeneration is a complex process, research shows that certain interventions and therapies can help restore or improve white matter integrity over time. Strategies for Restoring White Matter 1. Neuroplasticity and Recovery The brain has a remarkable ability to adapt and reorganize itself, a process known as neuroplasticity . Even if some white matter damage cannot be completely reversed, the brain can often create new neural pathways to compensate for the loss of function. Rehabilitation Therapy : Physical, occupational, and cognitive therapies stimulate the brain and encourage neural rewiring. Learning New Skills : Activities like learning a new language, playing a musical in...

Lead poisoning, also known as lead toxicity, occurs when lead builds up in the body, often over months or years. It can result in severe physical and neurological symptoms and can have long-lasting effects on both the body and brain. Physical Symptoms of Lead Poisoning Lead poisoning can affect multiple organ systems, and the physical symptoms may vary depending on the level and duration of exposure. Symptoms often overlap in children and adults but can differ in severity. Early Symptoms       Fatigue     Weakness or lethargy     Abdominal pain (often cramping)     Nausea and vomiting     Loss of appetite     Weight loss     Constipation Advanced Physical Symptoms       High blood pressure     Joint and muscle pain     Headaches     Pale or "grayish" skin (anemia-related)     Difficulty...

The Pax Romana (27 BCE–180 CE), often regarded as the Roman Empire’s “Golden Age,” was a time of unprecedented peace, prosperity, and progress. Stretching across Europe, the Mediterranean, North Africa, and the Middle East, Rome built an empire that was the envy of the ancient world. From monumental achievements in architecture and engineering to innovations in governance and law, the Romans laid the groundwork for Western civilization. But while the era's gleaming marble cities and aqueducts symbolized progress, a hidden danger lurked beneath the surface—one that may have contributed to Rome's eventual decline: lead pollution . A Golden Age of Civilization During the Pax Romana, the Roman Empire thrived. Augustus, the first emperor, brought an end to decades of civil war, consolidating power and ushering in a period of relative stability. Trade networks stretched from Britain to India, cities flourished with art and culture, and Roman engineering reached new heights. This era...

Image: credit Dr. McMillan Dr. McMillan: " This is a global issue.  I would caution against that because you have to remember, you're not just concerned about COVID, you're concerned about all the other viruses and bacteria that are circulating."   People with lupus ( systemic lupus erythematosus , or SLE) face a heightened risk of severe complications from human metapneumovirus (hMPV) due to their compromised immune system. Lupus is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks healthy tissues. Additionally, lupus treatments, including immunosuppressive medications like corticosteroids, methotrexate, or biologics (e.g., rituximab), further weaken the body's defenses against infections. Why People with Lupus Are at Greater Risk Weakened Immune System Lupus and its treatments impair the body’s ability to fight infections, including respiratory viruses like hMPV. Higher Risk of Severe Respira...