Just look up starling murmurations! They’re where hundreds of thousands of birds move as a single, undulating entity across the sky. How could so many individual birds achieve such perfect synchronization without collisions? The answer lies in emergent behavior, defined as complex patterns arising from simple individual interactions. Modern computing has allowed researchers to decode these biological mysteries by creating algorithmic models that simulate starling flocking behavior.

What is the Boids Algorithm?

In 1986, computer scientist Craig Reynolds created the groundbreaking "Boids" model, demonstrating how three simple rules could generate lifelike flocking behavior. Each simulated "boid,” or bird-like object, followed basic principles. These included separation by avoiding crowding neighbors, alignment by steering toward average heading, and cohesion by moving toward average position.

Surprisingly, these minimal rules produced creepily realistic flocking patterns. Modern iterations now incorporate additional biological factors like predator avoidance, energy conservation, and environmental obstacles, bringing simulations even closer to observed starling behavior.

What Algorithms Reveal About Birds’ Intelligence

The success of these simulations challenges traditional ideas of bird intelligence. The saying “bird-brained” probably won’t mean an insult anymore, because rather than requiring complex cognition or leadership from only one bird while the rest are “stupid”, murmurations emerge from decentralized decision-making.

Each starling reacts only to its nearest neighbors (typically 6-7 birds), creating a rapid information cascade through the flock. Advanced models show how this local interaction becomes global coordination, explaining how starlings achieve reaction times faster than human neural processing, under 100 milliseconds! The models also show why murmurations appear to flow like liquids and exhibit fluid dynamics.

Applications in Tech and Society

Engineers use modified Boid rules to program drone swarms for search-and-rescue operations. Traffic planners apply flocking principles to model pedestrian flows in crowded spaces.

Even the film industry employs these algorithms to create realistic crowd animations. And perhaps most importantly, these models help us understand other complex systems like neuron firing patterns and stock market fluctuations!

Current research pushes these models further by incorporating machine learning. Some systems now train on real starling flight data captured by 3D cameras, letting algorithms "learn" slight variations in flocking behavior.

Others explore how individual personality differences, like bold and cautious birds, affect group dynamics. Slowly, we’re coming closer to creating a perfect digital murmuration that might finally answer why starlings flock with these specific rules in the first place. While hypotheses range from predator confusion to social bonding, models continue to display the beauty of physics in life.

Sources:

Animating murmurations of starlings

Starlings Table - Joris Laarman

Boids

What is a starling murmuration and why do they form? | The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire Manchester and North Merseyside

Boids Algorithm: Navigating the Skies of Collective Intelligence | by Data Overload | Medium  

Written by Azzy Xiang from MEDILOQUY

Without a unified, tamper-proof system, critical migration patterns can be lost or buried, hindering global conservation efforts. While mainly attributed to crypto, blockchain technology offers a revolutionary solution by decentralizing avian data, ensuring transparency, security, and global accessibility.

Security of Blockchain

Blockchain’s immutable ledger provides an ideal framework for tracking migratory birds. Each bird’s movement data recorded via GPS, geolocators, or citizen science inputs can be stored as a "block" in a distributed network. Once entered, this data cannot be altered, preventing tampering or loss.

Smart contracts can automate data sharing between researchers, NGOs, and policymakers, ensuring real-time updates without bureaucratic delays. For example, if an endangered species deviates from its usual route due to deforestation, conservationists worldwide receive instant alerts, enabling rapid response.

Community Engagement

Blockchain democratizes bird conservation by integrating crowdsourced data from birdwatchers and citizen scientists. Apps like eBird could log sightings on a blockchain, rewarding contributors with conservation tokens or NFTs tied to verified observations. This incentivizes public participation while maintaining data integrity.

Indigenous communities, often the first to notice migratory shifts, can also contribute traditional ecological knowledge to the blockchain, preserving their insights in a permanent, globally accessible format. Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin pride themselves in being more accessible for disadvantaged and marginalized populations.

Fighting Illegal Trade

Blockchain’s TRACEABILITY in particular is a powerful tool against illegal bird trafficking. By tagging legally traded birds, such as falcons used in falconry, with blockchain-based digital certificates, authorities can verify their origins and ownership history.

Poached birds lacking these credentials would be flagged immediately, making black-market trade riskier. Projects like Wildchain, while not explicitly using blockchain, already use similar models to conserve species, proving that blockchain could further advance efforts.

Think about what would happen if a decentralized, real-time map of bird migrations, updated by researchers, sensors, and citizen scientists worldwide, were unified. It could instantly reveal how climate change alters flight paths or where protected habitats are most needed. Integrated with AI, it could predict collision risks with wind turbines or buildings, saving millions of birds annually.

In a world where data is power, it could be the key to safeguarding our skies, promoting bird conservation that is directly tied to biodiversity and ecosystem health. And that’s directly reflective of the quality and happiness of the world that we live in, inseparable from human well-being.

Sources:

Blockchain-based open platform architecture for bird data. | Download Scientific Diagram

A Research on the Sharing Platform of Wild Bird Data in Yunnan Province Based on Blockchain and Interstellar File System

Seychelles bird made ‘digital species’ for conservation | World Economic Forum

Wildchain    

Written by Azzy Xiang from MEDILOQUY

Birds can navigate thousands of miles with pinpoint accuracy, often relying on Earth’s magnetic field like an invisible GPS. This trait, known as magnetoreception, has many unknown workings behind it.

We’ve guessed about the functionality behind it, like iron-rich cells in beaks and light-sensitive proteins in eyes, but none fully explain the precision and speed of this. Quantum computing is now emerging to model how birds might "see" magnetic fields at the quantum level.

The “Quantum Compass” Hypothesis

There’s a possibility that birds navigate using quantum entanglement, where particles become interconnected across distances, reacting instantaneously to changes in their environment. In birds, cryptochrome proteins in their eyes may host pairs of entangled electrons that respond to Earth’s magnetic field. When light hits these proteins, it could create radical pairs whose quantum states shift depending on magnetic intensity and direction. (For the people who took AP Chemistry or a similar class in high school, radical pairs are molecules with unpaired electrons.)

This quantum compass would allow birds to perceive magnetic fields as visual patterns or even as a "heads-up display" overlaid on their vision. Quantum computers, which operate on the same principles of superposition and entanglement, are uniquely suited to simulate this process.

Unlike classical computers, they can model the simultaneous states of entangled particles, like how fleeting quantum reactions in cryptochrome proteins might translate into navigational data. Early simulations on quantum processors like IBM’s and Google’s have already replicated simplified versions of this system.

Traditional supercomputers struggle to model quantum biological processes because they must simulate quantum states sequentially, requiring impossible amounts of time and memory. For example, modeling just 50 entangled electrons would demand more classical bits than there are atoms in the known universe.

Quantum computers, however, can natively mimic quantum systems, making them the only viable tool to explore hypotheses like the radical pair mechanism. Researchers at the University of Oldenburg used quantum algorithms to demonstrate how Earth’s weak magnetic field of 50 microteslas could alter the spin states of electrons in cryptochrome, which further suggests birds exploit quantum physics for navigation.

If birds can indeed harness quantum effects in normal conditions, it could help us invent ultra-sensitive navigation systems for drones or submarines, use new contrast agents for medical imaging machines based on radical pair dynamics, and invent strategies to maintain quantum coherence in noisy environments, as birds seemingly do.

The European Quantum Flagship program has already funded projects exploring these intersections, with how European robins navigate already being a case study. This is part of a broader effort to understand quantum phenomena in various applications.

Duh, there’s gonna be a catch

Evidently, quantum models face many hurdles, despite being innovative. Biological systems are messy, with noise and decoherence that quantum computers struggle to replicate. There’s also a lot of contention over whether cryptochrome proteins are sensitive enough to detect Earth’s magnetic field without other mechanisms like magnetite crystals assisting. 

Most importantly, if we work on quantum technology based on real living creatures, could our electromagnetic pollution disrupt birds’ navigation? Maybe not. Disruptions like solar storms and urban noise could be simulated with the tech to help protect species in our cluttered and polluted world.

Sources:

‘They have no one to follow’: how migrating birds use quantum mechanics to navigate | Science | The Guardian

How Migrating Birds Use Quantum Effects to Navigate | Scientific American

Birds Are Real, and So Is Quantum Physics | MIT Admissions

Quantum Computers and Birds — Chicago Ornithological Society    

Written by Azzy Xiang from MEDILOQUY

In my own experience, I once managed to cut my hand while I was gardening. Instead of just rinsing it with water, I decided to try something different. I mixed a bit of turmeric with water and applied it directly to the cut, then covered it with a bandage. Over the next few days, I noticed that the wound was scabbing over faster and there was less swelling compared to other injuries I’d had. I kept it clean, of course, but it felt like the turmeric really helped make the healing process smoother and less painful. Just a heads up, though, turmeric should be used with caution and is best for minor injuries; serious wounds definitely need a doctor’s attention.

Overall, turmeric shows promise as a natural aid in minor wound healing due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

Written by Rhea Manjunath from MEDILOQUY

My research revealed that arguments tend to trigger a complex cascade of responses in the brain with both immediate and potentially long-term implications. When conflict arises, our brains, wired for survival, often perceive it as a threat. This activates the amygdala, the brain's alarm system, which rapidly initiates the “fight, flight, or freeze” response. The reaction essentially floods the body with stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. While beneficial in true danger, this surge can impair higher-level cognitive functions, or the way we think. Blood flow is diverted from the prefrontal cortex, responsible for reasoning, empathy, and impulse control, to prepare muscles for action. This “emotional hijacking” explains why logical conversation often breaks down during arguments.

In a way, it actually was a method of coping; the brain perceives the argument as a threat and firing back was a coping mechanism. This also seemed to explain why we argue back (protecting ourselves) even though it would hurt other people. The body’s first instinct is to protect itself. So the next time you get into an argument, don’t be as harsh on yourself. It’s technically not your fault…

Written by Hanaa Saleem from MEDILOQUY

For example, copper is believed to reduce inflammation and has antimicrobial properties. Some people wear copper bracelets for arthritis, though there have been no actual studies that have proven this argument. On the other hand, silver has long been used in wound dressings and medical devices because of its antibacterial properties. Gold, too, plays a role in medicine; gold salts are used to treat certain autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.

Rather than simply traditional metals, gemstones and crystals are also widely used in alternative therapies. Though also often lacking scientific backing, some researchers suggest that the placebo effect or the psychological value of wearing specific stones may influence well-being. Quartz, for instance, is believed to enhance clarity and energy, while amethyst is linked to calmness, though no peer-reviewed studies confirm these direct effects.

Another interesting topic this touches upon, is birthstones. These are linked to birth months and carry historical and cultural symbolism. Originating from biblical times and evolving through astrology and folklore, each stone is thought to bring specific benefits. For example, garnet (January) symbolizes protection, while emerald (May) is associated with growth and healing. Scientifically, their effects are unproven, but the psychological comfort and identity associated with birthstones can positively affect emotional health.

It is important to remember that jewelry can also physically impact the body, not just spiritually. Heavy earrings have the ability to stretch the earlobe, nickel-based metals can trigger allergic reactions, and ill fitted jewelry can cut off circulation.

So while metals and stones hold deep traditional and cultural significance, most medical benefits are either anecdotal or limited to placebo and material properties. Nonetheless, their use in holistic healing and modern wearable technology shows how ancient practices and modern science can coexist.

Written by Hanaa Saleem from MEDILOQUY

It was my first day as a clinical student, and I was to be in the theatre for a procedure I knew nothing about. I changed into my new blue scrubs, grabbed a nose mask and a hair cover, ready to assist the surgeon with my verse anatomy knowledge when the surgeon called all the medical students and mentioned that we would not be in the theatre today and that a registrar will be taking us on surgical positions, and it was in that lecture that I heard the word “Lithotomy” for the first time.

What is Lithotomy Position?

If you are hearing the lithotomy position for the first time, it is simply a surgical position where the patient lies on their back with knees bent and positioned above the hips and spread apart using stirrups. The lithotomy position gives the doctor better access to the mother and fetus during childbirth.

Despite its popularity as a position for childbirth, there is a truth about the lithotomy position only found in its origin.

Origin of Lithotomy Position

The word “Lithotomy” originates from two Greek words; “Litho-” meaning stone and “-tomy” meaning to cut. Putting these words together, “Lithotomy” literally means to cut for stone, and in this meaning lies the truth about the Lithotomy position as it is originally a position for making incisions to remove bladder and gallstones in a procedure known as Lithotomy, but with the advent of better treatment modalities the need for Lithotomy surgeries dwindled and a position that used to be known for the lithotomy procedure was now known for childbirth.

Indications for Lithotomy Position

The indications for lithotomy position include but are not limited to the following:

1. Childbirth by spontaneous vaginal delivery

2. Lithotomy for bladder and kidney stones

3. Repair of hemorrhoids

Conclusion

To get a good grasp of any topic in medicine, one must learn how to deal with the jargon before setting out to consume the vast knowledge on that topic as this will go on to make your reading smooth and easy, thereby boosting your understanding.

Written by Ayebamiebi Yousuo from MEDILOQUY

Eczema is generally known to arise from a combination of both genetic as well as environmental factors with a weakened skin barrier making the symptoms worse. A common reason why a damaged skin barrier arises is from high UV exposure (make sure to always put on sunscreen), which makes it overall harder for the skin to retain moisture and much easier for the body to absorb irritants, allergens, and microbes. Common triggers include types of soap, allergens, stress, and packaged foods, with a particular weakness for eczema, asthma, and hay fever family history.

This brings me the potential cures. In order to escape these symptoms of itchy, irritation and inflamed skin, it is recommended to avoid using any scented soaps, body washes, or detergents. This makes it so that there are less chemicals in those compounds that could potentially irritate the skin even further. Stress on a large scale, surprisingly, can also work to affect your skin negatively, as it lowers the immune system function overall. This makes it so that the body’s defense mechanisms are significantly decreased, damaging your skin even more. Avoiding excessive intake of packaged foods is also a better way to address eczema at home because the preservatives negatively affect the skin as well.

But that also brings me to medical treatments. Right now, in the market, doctors recommend moisturizing regularly with a combination of topical corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors. For itching, a diet of low histamine foods (a compound in the body responsible for the ‘itching’ feeling) and antihistamines are commonly prescribed. There have also been recent advances, especially in biologics like dupilumab, which is responsible for targeting specific pathways in the immune system and offer overall relief.

So while itching might not always indicate lice, it shouldn’t be ignored either. Persistent or widespread itchiness, especially when accompanied by redness, dryness, or inflammation, could be a sign of eczema, a condition that deserves medical attention and proper care. Understanding the root causes, avoiding triggers, and staying consistent with treatment can make a huge difference in managing symptoms. Eczema may not have a permanent cure, but with the right approach, it’s entirely possible to keep flare-ups under control and improve skin health over time.

Written by Hanaa Saleem from MEDILOQUY

When I left the classroom, I also observed how I felt a bit off, tired and slightly out of focus. Later, I thought about how my shallow breathing during the test probably didn’t help. It made me think about how easy it is to forget something as basic as breathing when we’re stressed. Which, as always, made me more curious to explore. Turns out sometimes you can forget to do something as instinctual as breathing too.

So, I did some research, and found out that during stress, the body activates the sympathetic nervous system, also known as the “fight or flight” response. This triggers shallow, rapid breathing from the chest, which reduces oxygen intake and increases levels of carbon dioxide in the blood. Essentially, the stress deprives your body of oxygen and leads to symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, poor concentration, and increased anxiety. This was exactly what I experienced during my test.

Breathing exercises, especially diaphragmatic or “belly” breathing, help to counteract this response. By engaging the diaphragm and slowing the breath to about 6 to 10 breaths per minute, you stimulate the vagus nerve, which activates the parasympathetic nervous system. This is the opposite of the sympathetic nervous system, aligning closer to the “rest and digest” response. This approach now shifts this anxiety and oxygen deprivation into lowered heart rate, decreased blood pressure, as well as reduced cortisol (body’s primary stress hormone that is secreted in high stake situations) circulation.

There’s even strong clinical evidence supporting the use of breathing techniques to manage anxiety, improve cognitive performance, and even reduce symptoms of conditions like asthma, insomnia, and hypertension. One study published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience found that just 20 minutes of slow-paced breathing significantly enhanced attention and emotional regulation. Another study in the Journal of Clinical Psychology showed improvements in mood and physiological resilience after just a few weeks of breath-focused mindfulness training.

So now I encourage you to make it a habit to spend a few minutes before exams or high-pressure situations practicing deep, controlled breathing. It’s a simple intervention, but its physiological effects are powerful. What started as a random observation in a math classroom turned into a daily practice rooted in science, and one that I think more people should take seriously.

Written by Hanaa Saleem from MEDILOQUY

The human body can be exposed to toxins by various routes such as ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact. The symptoms vary depending on the toxic agent, its dosage, and the circumstances in which it was acted upon, ranging from simple nausea to severe organ failure. It is also important for common households to know the visible signs of poisoning and seek help immediately. Environmental health is intricately tied to toxicology.

Polluted air and groundwater expose communities to toxic agents, thereby aggravating already chronic health conditions. For example, lead exposure from peeling paint or contaminated soil can impede a child's neurological development. Such issues should be addressed by healthcare providers, environmental scientists, and policy makers working together. Education concerning safe handling and disposal of toxic materials, and further controls on the use of harmful substances are important aspects of poisoning prevention.

One should create a culture of safety consciousness, where everyone fully understands the threat of toxicity existing in the environment. Making efforts to keep environmental health on the front burner and promoting responsible conduct will minimize poisoning and enhance the well-being of communities. A battle against these toxic agents is only one aspect of this; it is, in fact, the nurturing of our world to become safer and healthier for generations to come.

Written by Rhea Manjunath from MEDILOQUY

Two major procedures of this operation are open appendectomy and laparoscopic appendectomy. A larger incision in the right lower abdomen is used in open appendectomy. On the other hand, in laparoscopic appendectomy, the doctorperforms multiple small cuts and inserts a camera and instruments through them to remove the appendix. This procedure is often minimally invasive and results in less postoperative pain and shorter recovery time. Once the appendix is removed, the doctor closes the cuts carefully with sutures or staples. The patient is then kept under observation in recovery. The majority of patients can return to normal activities in a matter of weeks, based on the procedure and personal health considerations. Keep in mind that early treatment is essential for an effective outcome.

Written by Rhea Manjunath from MEDILOQUY

Diabetes Mellitus is a non-communicable disease characterized by abnormally elevated blood glucose with a strong genetic and lifestyle factor that has plagued the human race for years. With the increase in the consumption of junk and sedentary lifestyle accompanied by genetic factors, this metabolic disorder has become more pronounced leading to the discovery and development of various medications(Insulin analogs, Sulphonylureas, Biguanides, GLP-1 ReceptorAgonist, e.t.c) that are effective for the management of this condition. 

These discoveries and developments have led scientists to the discovery of a drug that beyond controlling the body's glucose level might just have some significant anti-aging effect. 

The Big Question 

The big question is, "What drug is it?" Metformin it is! Metformin, which is a biguanide, and the only biguanide that is currently in use due to its safety profile, has been seen to mimic calorie restriction, and as such has earned it the term, "Calorie Restriction Mimetic (CRM).” 

Over the years scientists have researched and experimented on various means to slow down aging, and the means that has stood out and seen to be the most effective is calorie restriction. But we all know calorie restriction is not so palatable, especially in this generation. So how do we eat our cake and have it? That's where metformin comes in. It produces the same effects such as cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, and anti-malignant effects, as calorie restriction without necessarily restricting calories. 

Conclusion 

Much research is still ongoing to pursue this anti-aging hypothesis of metformin. In the meantime, to ensure good health and longevity humans must continue to seek calorie restriction habits and an active lifestyle.

References 

Kalra, S., Unnikrishnan, A. G., & Sahay, R. (2012a, July). Metformin and the promise of geroprotection. Indian journal of endocrinology and metabolism. 

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3401742/

Written by Ayebamiebi Yousuo from MEDILOQUY

Even as medicine continues to evolve and advance, there are still a lot of grey areas to which we are uncertain, and this also results in different perspectives and explanations for these uncertainties leading us to what we term, ‘hypothesis’, and the hygiene hypothesis is one of such explanations. 

What is the hygiene hypothesis? 

The hygiene hypothesis is a theory that suggests early childhood exposure to germs helps develop a healthy immune system. It states that “a lack of early childhood exposure to infectious agents, symbiotic microorganisms (such as gut flora), and parasites increases susceptibility to allergic diseases and autoimmune conditions by suppressing the natural development of the immune system”. 

What best describes the hygiene hypothesis? 

Research has shown that the prevalence of reported cases of Atopic disorders, notably atopic asthma is higher in developed countries like the UK as compared to developing countries as seen in Africa and the hygiene hypothesis suggests that due to the pronounced civilization and urbanization leading to microbial deprivation in such developed countries, there has been a delay and weakening of the natural development of the immune system in such countries making them hypersensitive and more prone to allergies. 

Who discovered the hygiene hypothesis? 

Dr. David Strachan, an epidemiologist formulated the ‘hygiene hypothesis' in 1989 where he reported an inverse relationship between family size and the development of atopic disorders, and proposed that a lower incidence of infection in early childhood, transmitted by unhygienic contact with older siblings or acquired pre-natally could be a cause of the rise in allergic diseases. Subsequently, as the concept was further explored by specialists in allergy and immunology, it evolved into the broader notion that declining microbial exposure is a major causative factor in the increasing incidence of atopy in recent years.

Conclusion 

The hygiene hypothesis doesn't seek to take away the place of personal hygiene but seeks to explore the role of microbes and overcrowding in the natural development of the immune system and decrease in the development of Atopic Disorders.

Written by Ayebamiebi Yousuo from MEDILOQUY

One experience stands out assisting a patient who has been in and out of the hospital for months. While the medical treatments were important, it was the conversations and reassurance from the healthcare team that made the most difference. This showed me how the human aspect of medicine is just as vital as technical skills. Medicine is not just about diagnosing and treating; it’s about caring for people in their most vulnerable moments. 

That experience solidified my desire to pursue a career in medicine, and it also reinforced my commitment to serving others. It’s not just about science; it’s about the people behind science. This realization has deepened my understanding of what it means to be a healthcare professional and strengthened my drive to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Written by Brianna Ramírez from MEDILOQUY

One of the turning points came when I reached out to a mentor, a professor in the field who helped me refine my focus and understand the bigger picture. This experience taught me how important mentorship is, not just for understanding the technical aspects of a subject, but for developing the problem-solving skills needed to succeed. My mentor’s insights helped me design more efficient experiments, which eventually led me to uncover some fascinating patterns in brain plasticity. 

Through this journey, I’ve learned that challenges are an inevitable part of the learning process. What matters most is how we approach these obstacles and the resources we seek to overcome them. As I continue to explore neuroscience, I’m more determined than ever to contribute to the field, knowing that growth often comes from embracing the unknown.

Written by Brianna Ramírez from MEDILOQUY

It is quite interesting to note that the amoeba cannot spread to humans through the drinking of water; it has to take the passage of the nose. Though there is no known cure for PAM, some have been treated successfully with early treatment. Early treatment may be initiated with a combination of miltefosine, an investigational medication that has cured some survivors, plus amphotericin B, an antifungal medication. Additionally, brain cooling therapy has been used to improve survival chances and reduce swelling. 

The thought of an amoeba consuming brains is horrifying, but fortunately, it is extremely uncommon. However, incidents have also been observed in northern states as a result of climate change brought on by global warming. Researchers are still trying to

figure out why some people who are exposed to the amoeba get fatal infections while others do not. Until more is learned, taking simple preventive measures can decrease the risk and ensure safety while participating in freshwater activities. 

Sources: 

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24485-brain-eating-amoeba https://www.cdc.gov/naegleria/about/index.html

Written by Aditi Avunuri from MEDILOQUY

The patients are treated under general anesthesia so that the person remains unconscious without feeling anything painful during surgery. One or more models may be done for transplanting, but generally, a single donor kidney will be placed in the lower abdomen, either in the right or left groin, depending upon the surgical team. The kidney will be transplanted by anastomosis of the renal artery and vein to the blood vessels of the patient to continue the blood circulation. The ureter, which carries urine from the kidney into the bladder, is also surgically connected. A small stent is usually placed inside the connection to make it heal; it is usually removed within several weeks. One would also see tubes or catheters in each arm, in the neck, and one to assist in urination, placed for medications, fluids, and urination need 

Most kidney transplant patients receive a single kidney, but if the donor's kidney is of lower function, physicians may choose to perform a double kidney transplant in

which both kidneys from a single donor are transplanted. Other patients may undergo a pediatric en bloc transplant in which kidneys from a young child are transplanted together in an adult patient to provide optimal function. Surgeons may biopsy the donor kidney during or before transplantation to evaluate its quality. 

The majority of kidney transplants are successful, but complications may occur including infection, bleeding, or blood vessel obstruction. Individuals who have poor function of the bladder may require alternative diversion of urine. After surgery, the patient is closely monitored to ensure the new kidney is working well. 

Typically, patients gradually recover and are able to continue the rest of their life with optimal kidney function. This innovative procedure has improved the lives of many, and will continue to do so for many years to come. 

Sources: 

https://www.nhsbt.nhs.uk/organ-transplantation/kidney/at-the-transplant-centre/kidney transplant-surgery/#:~:text=The%20donor%20kidney%20is%20transplanted,artery%2C%2 0kidney%20vein%20and%20ureter.&text=This%20shows%20a%20transplanted%20kidney, several%20weeks%20aer%20the%20surgery. 

https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/kidney-disease/kidney-failure/kidney-transplant

The patient had lost lots of blood, slurred her words, and felt lightheaded. The EMTs assessed her right away while I went through facts. She had recently gotten implants, and a stitch came loose on her right breast, causing her to bleed out. Understanding the severity of the situation, I knew we had to rush her off to hospital right away. Without wavering, I assured her calmly, explaining what had happened and what we were doing to treat her. While putting her on a stretcher, her panic seemed to slightly alleviate. 

Inside the ambulance, I watched the EMTs closely as they performed purposefully, with every movement quick and confident. For the first time ever, I took her vitals, shouting out numbers while coordinating her care efficiently. No unnecessary movement, no delay, only quick and precise movements that had the patient top priority. I had always respected and admired EMTs from the start, but that moment was when I really grasped how much skill and calmness while working under pressure went into treating emergencies. 

By the time we had reached hospital, the patient had steadied out, and the doctors thanked us for the basic information we provided (like her vitals, history, etc.) I reflected while the ambulance drove me back to the station, thinking back to each moment. 

In a life or death situation, every minute counts. Taking things forward with confidence, asking questions, and not being afraid to actively participate is the best way to help out. I finished that day with a greater admiration of all that EMTs do, and loads of motivation to improve my own skills as much as possible.

In the past, there was a case of a 77-year-old female diagnosed with chronic atrial fibrillation who had AHS part of her cardioembolic stroke presentation. She had her anticoagulation therapy temporarily held off for her operation on spine, without bridging her on low-molecular-weight heparin. Two days aer that, while watching TV, she noticed herself involuntarily stroking her hair and face with her le hand. Despite her attempts to control it, her movements continued on for nearly 30 minutes. Aer regaining control of her hand, noticed the le extremity of her top half was weak and numb. 

Hospital CT scan and MRI confirmed acute parietal lobe infarcts on her two sides suggestive of cardioembolic stroke.The rest of the tests, including her transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiograms, were not showing thrombosis in her heart or its orifices. Fortunately, she managed to gain control of her le side as he regained consciousness within those six hours. She restarted her therapy of her anticoagulation, discharged home on very clear instructions to continue it to preclude recurrence of a stroke.

Alien hand syndrome aer experiencing a stroke is extremely unusual but can occur typically through lesions of the parietal cortex, corpus callosum, or supplementary motor regions; the locations of coordination of movement and control of body movement. The brain’s planning of movement is disrupted, leading to the involuntary movement of one’s hand. AHS can occur on its presentations of intermanual conflict (when movement of a hand is opposite of what is wanted by opposing hand), anarchic hand syndrome (when one’s hand make voluntary movements automatically), supernumerary hand illusion (feeling like there is one hand too much), levitating hand syndrome (when there is involuntary elevation of hand. 

Though AHS is frightening, it is usually temporary aer a stroke and can improve within hours to days as the brain recovers. Even though there is no effective therapy for AHS, rehabilitation can be done to control it. The case serves as a reminder of how nervous system disorders can reflect early signs of underlying stroke of cerebrovascular origin.

Sources: 

https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/the-alien-hand-syndrome/ 

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/alien-hand-syndrome https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4261226/ 

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24982566/#:~:text=A%2077%2Dyear%2Dold%20woman,r ecovery%2C%20she%20had%20le%20hemiparesis.

Written by Aditi Avunuri from MEDILOQUY

The microbiome plays a key role as it produces neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which influence mood and cognition. About 90% of the body's serotonin is produced in the gut. Research has shown how imbalances in the gut microbiome are linked to mental health disorders like anxiety and depression, as well as some physical conditions like irritable bowel syndrome(IBS).

Scientific research shows how a healthy gut directly impacts one's mood and brain function. A diet rich in fiber, fermented foods, and probiotics help maintain a balanced microbiome, which supports one's mental and physical being. For example, foods like yogurt, kimchi, and bananas, nurture beneficial bacteria which enhances the connection between one's gut and brain.

The gut brain axis demonstrates how interconnected our body actually is. By caring for your gut you are also taking steps to do things like support your mental health. It's a powerful reminder that shows how our lifestyle choices can greatly affect our overall well being.

References:

Cleveland Clinic. (2022). Gut-brain connection: What it is and why it matters. https://health.clevelandclinic.org

Harvard Health Publishing. (2023). The gut-brain connection. https://www.health.harvard.edu

Written by Aanandita Mahavadi from MEDILOQUY