The parotid gland / parotid gland tumors

Lit. Review Introduction: The parotid gland is the largest salivary gland. It is located on each side of the face between the zygomatic arch and the angle of the mandible. It is divided into superficial lobe and deep lobe by the plane of the facial nerve and its branches which pass through it. Salivary gland … Read more

Pulmonary agenesis (inc. case report)

Abstract Introduction: Pulmonary agenesis is an extremely rare congenital pathology which is defined as the complete absence of lung parenchyma, its corresponding bronchus and pulmonary vessels.  Its estimated prevalence occurs in only 24 of 1,000,000 live births. As of date, the exact etiology is still not known but could be possibly linked to genetic  factors, … Read more

Effect of dual tasking on postural stability

This systematic review researched the effect of dual tasking on postural stability, focused on elderly and PD patients. Only thirteen studies met the groups inclusion criteria for detailed review. Five studies focused on PD patients, describing the effect of dual tasking on postural stability through visuomotor, VR or balance exercises. The remaining eight studies focused … Read more

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) new diagnostic criteria

Abstract Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is becoming a more common diagnosis due to increasing risk factors related to obesity, sedentary behavior, and pregnancy with type 2 diabetes. GDM is currently defined as diabetes diagnosed during the second trimester. Controversy surrounds GDM screening and diagnosing due to changes in the diagnostic criteria guidelines; such as testing … Read more

Primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PP-MS)

INTRODUCTION Patients with primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PP-MS) pose a challenge in monitoring early disease progression (1, 2). PP-MS patients develop progressive disability without relapse or remission, and the lack of diffuse macroscopic damage and lesion formation provides difficulty in guiding treatment options (3). The pathophysiological mechanisms of PP-MS are unknown, yet an interplay of … Read more

The brain and neurotransmitters

Chapter 1: Behind the Brain The brain is one of the largest and most complex organs in the human body. This master organ that weighs about 3.3 lbs. (1.5 kilograms), commands our nervous system. It does that by taking information from our sensory organs and our environment and then using this information to regulate our … Read more

Cholesterol

Cholesterol, the most prominent family member of the sterols, is originally discovered as a major component in human gallstones by F. Pouletier de la Salle in 1769. M.E. Chevreul named the organic molecule “cholesterine” (chole for bile, stereos for solid) in 1815, later adjusted with the chemical suffix of –ol for the alcohol component [REF … Read more

Dental implications of eating disorders

Eating disorders are a type of psychological disorder characterised by abnormal or unhealthy eating habits, usually linked with restrictive food intake . The cause of onset cannot be linked to one reason alone as it is believed that there are multiple contributing factors, including biological, sociocultural and psychological influences. The sociocultural influences are linked with … Read more

Biological development

Biological Beginnings: Each human cell has a nucleus which contains chromosomes made up of deoxynucleic acid, or DNA. DNA contains the genetic information, or genes, that are used to make a human being. All typical cells in a human body have 46 chromosomes arranged in 23 pairs, with the exception of the egg and sperm. … Read more

Impact of social media on teenage mental health

How long do you stay on your phone surfing through social media? Teens who spend more than 2 hours per day on any social networking platform are significantly more likely to have mental health problems resulting in suicidal ideation (Gramigna, 2020). Although some may argue that suicidal behaviors vary in gender, where one resides, and … Read more

Do some illicit drugs have medical benefits?

INTRODUCTION For generations, we have been taught that illicit drugs are bad for you. Almost every physician will recommend avoiding use of illicit drugs because it can lead to long term health problems, drug abuse, and drug addiction. Illicit drug use can ruin a life in such a short amount of time. Although illicit drugs … Read more

Gastrointestinal organs and accessory organs

Explain the function of each part of the digestive system identified in the diagram above? Digestive system The digestive system is a group of organs working together to convert food into energy and nutrients to feed the entire body. Food passes through a long tube inside the body known as gastrointestinal tract. The gastrointestinal tract … Read more

Axonal transport defects in diabetes

Abstract Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease and it has been associated with several complications affecting peripheral and central nervous system. Proper axonal transport is crucial for neuronal maintenance and function. Alterations in axonal transport have been correlated with the progression of several neurodegenerative diseases. Axonal transport impairment induces functional changes in the distal axon … Read more