BrockPre-MedSociety&itsSubsidiariesPresents

Edition#1

MEDMAG
Dentistry
Physiotherapy
Nursing
Pharmacy
Medicine

Our Mission
Founded January 2015, Brock Pre-Med Society started off slow and lacked traction. However, as
with all start-ups, approaching from zero-to-one was in sight. With a staff of approximately 45
executives, Brock Pre-Med Society has achieved new levels of organization empowering the
student population with nothing short of leadership opportunities. With the recent interests of the
public in the Pre-Med Society, it became rather clear that taking on a task to meet the demands of the
public would be far too consuming thus leading to the idea of the subsidiary branch model system.
From the start of what were seven pre-med hopefuls, weve started the pre-dentistry,
pre-physiotherapy, pre-pharmacy, nursing, and MedMag societies all with their own dedicated
teams that are united under the banner of Pre-Med. This beautifully crafted piece that you are holding
is the very first edition of our flagship MedMag a newsletter format magazine that has the goal to
provide students with recent and upcoming news/innovations in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy,
physiotherapy, and nursing. Each of our branches has contributed topics to the MedMag under the
motto Unification, diversification, and differentiation. With our flagship product and with a highly
motivated team, it is without a doubt possible to say that we will be the largest organization at Brock
University. Were here to make a difference and leave our footprints in the history of BrockU, and
we hope that you will join us in this endeavour.
Yours truly,
Iraj Zunair Afzal
President of Pre-Med & MedMag Societies

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Table of Contents
Page 4
Pages 5 & 6
Pages 7 & 8
Page 9
Page 10
Pages 11 & 12
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Page 14
Pages 15&16
Pages 17&18
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Page 20
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Pages 24&25
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Pages 27&28
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Pages 30&31

Legalization of Euthanasia (Medically Assisted Suicide) in Canada

Male Pattern Baldness has a new All Natural Treatment
Marijuana and Cancer: the never-ending debate
Potential Aid towards MDD and Schizophrenia
Nationally Integrating our Health Care System
Comfortable in your own skin? It might save your life
French kissing makes a terminal for bacteria and viruses
Alzheimer's disease linked to poor dental health
Is Addium a real life NZT-48?
High intensity or conventional exercise for patients with rheumatoid arthritis?
Physiotherapy intervention for Parkinson's disease
Joining a field that is predominantely female
Specialized nursing: dermatology
Kumdang-2: Reality or a myth
Treating immunodeficiency
World's first bilateral hand transplant
Are our telomeres the fountain of youth?
Is it really all in the mind?
The Hype Ad
Executive circle list

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Legalization Of Euthanasia

(medically assisted suicide) In Canada

Written by: Iraj Zunair Afzal, Wisdom Dickson,
Pavleen Dhillon, Sonia Aksamit

Modern medicine has been in a continuous debate as

to whether euthanasia (more commonly known as
medically assisted suicide) should be legalized or
not. However, Canada has recently legalized
euthanasia after a decision made by the Supreme
Court of Canada to remove the ban on euthanasia
allowing patients that are mentally competent to
undergo assisted suicide if they have terminal
illnesses. However, despite the ruling, it should be
noted that patients must meet certain criteria such
as be of legal adult age and be assessed by a doctor.
Despite the permission to assist in suicide, doctors
have full right in avoiding participation of
euthanasia.

There is a little good and a little bad to everything and

likewise with the legalization of euthanasia, there are
many pros and cons. Many believe that the legalization of
euthanasia is great because those who are terminally ill or
in excruciating pain should not have to suffer and should
have a choice to have a quick, painless death. It should be
a voluntary decision. Also, if the patient has no chance of
ever getting better or have zero chances of recovery, then
euthanasia should be an option.1 Although euthanasia
does not seem to be a bad idea for many, there are several
concerns that arose with the legalization of euthanasia.
One of these concerns include that if the patient is
extremely ill or elderly, they may feel obliged to choose
death over fighting or living so that they are no longer a
burden on their family or caregivers. Legalization may
cause family conflicts because not everyone agrees with
the decision made by the Enduring Power of Attorney or
Guardian. Those who oppose euthanasia also say the
legalization will devalue life.2 Interestingly enough,
suicide may also rise due to euthanasia legalization.
Suicide is found to be the second leading cause of death
among individuals ages 15-34, following the number one
cause which is from accidents and unintentional injuries.
Approximately 80% of the people that commit suicide
have had at least one previous attempt3. Based on this,
while euthanasia might benefit many people, it may also
cause a significant amount of harm.

Figure 1: Suicide rates based

on age groups and gender4

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Male Pattern Baldness Has A New

All Natural Treatment

Written by: Danial Behzad, Saad Hanan, and Alina Jag

Nothing demoralizes an individual more than hair loss at early stages in their lives. Wake up one morning ready
to get to work, step into the shower, cress your hair and at your surprise, find a hand full of fallen hair. This
might seem like a nightmare to few but is reality to many. Hair loss treatments do exist using minoxidil and
finasteride. These treatments do bring a lot of concern with their side effects and lower success rate1. Recent
research looks at some previous treatments and how they affect hair regrowth and natural methods such as
pumpkin seed oil (PSO). PSO has shown great improvements in hair regrowth from a study by a team of South
Korean researchers, in which hair count increased by 40%.
Androgenic Alopecia (AGA) is a common type of hair loss that can occur in up to 70% of males in the later
stages of their lives. Hair loss occurs due to the diminishing of hair follicles, which spend less time in the
active anagen phase1. Due to the unsuccessful results, as well as adverse effects caused by FDA
approved treatments of AGA , such as topical minoxidil and oral finasteride, many males have
begun to seek alternative methods1. PSO is used as a treatment for benign prostatic
hyperplasia and is shown to have anti-androgenic effects in rats. This, therefore, leads to
the hypothesis that PSO can be used as an effective treatment in males with mild to
moderate AGA2. The study utilized a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, &
controlled design to determine the effects of PSO on AGA2. 76 male patients between the
ages of 20 and 65 years with AGA (having no treatment during the 3 months prior to the
study) were enrolled2. 37 were assigned to the group receiving 400 mg of PSO and 39
subjects were assigned to the control group, for a 24-week duration2.

Figure 1: Hair count (a) and thickness changes (b) in percent as time progresses1

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Furthermore, it is important to recognize that there are other well-known treatments for hair loss, such
as finasteride and minoxidil1 . PSO and finasteride work in a similar fashion as they are both
5-alpha-reductase inhibitor, which reduces the accumulation of DHT around hair follicle, but may
decrease libido volume and cause erectile dysfunction1,2. The main difference between
finasteride and PSO is that one is produced synthetically (finasteride) while one is produce
in nature (PSO). Minoxidil works by widening hair follicles and prolonging the anagen
stage of hair growth, but is well known for causing scaling and itching on the scalp.
The exact physiological explanation of how minoxidil works still remains
unknown, but has been deemed safe and approved by the FDA1,3.
Moreover, there are a variety of natural products that are also used for the
treatment of androgenetic alopecia. These include grape seed,rosemary
oil, and ginseng which all help prevent hair loss by improving blood
circulation in the scalp. Others include saw palmetto, polyphenols in
green tea, and cuscuta reflexa, which work in a similar mechanism as
pumpkin seed oil by having an inhibitory effect on the
5-alpha-reductase.1
With pumpkin seed oil and the other treatments in mind, future
research regarding androgenetic alopecia prevention should look to
observe human activity, and help to determine which activities may
be detrimental to ones hairline, or target specific actions that may
help to reduce the production of 5-alpha-reductase in the body.
Additionally, future studies should look to monitor treatments
over a prolonged period of time to determine any
detrimental side effects that may arise due to these various
treatments.

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Marijuana And Cancer

The Never-ending Debate
Written by: Chriztian Ivan Betancourt
Yes, it is not a myth that cannabis could potentially be used to
Legalize marijuana, it would stabilize the economy. cure cancer as proven by a scientific study conducted by Dr.
Manuel Guzman and his team of researchers in Complutense
Said John.
University in Madrid, Spain. The team created a genetically
Dont! It brings nothing but trouble, besides it damages modified mouse imitating patients with an EbrB2overexpressing tumour and this team created a genetically
brain function and has no use in medicine. Said Bob.
modified mouse expressing an EbrB2-overexpressing tumor
and then suppressing it with a mixture of delta-9 THC and
Between homeopathic fan boys to pre-med hopefuls, we another compound known as JWH. EbrB2 is a gene that
have all heard them say at some point the classic: Well, a encodes for epidermal growth receptors (EGFR) which
dictate the rate of cell division by binding to the surface of a
scientific study done by.
cell3. Mutations in EbrB2 receptor causes overproduction of a
Although there are several strong arguments that are posed specific receptor known as HER2 (found in more than 30% of
against the usage of cannabis (commonly known as weed breast cancer patients), which is responsible for an intercellular
or marijuana) by the so called experts, the recent signalling pathway called Akt - consequently causing rapid1
discovery of its potential as a cancer treatment drug gives an and uncontrollable cell division (otherwise known as cancer) .
Delta-9 THC (the most prominent of the 60+ cannabinoids
entirely new twist to this century old dispute.
that marijuana contains) is able to work with JWH-133 to
regulate this pathway by either slowing down or stopping
cancerous cells from dividing uncontrollably4.This property
has been attributed by the researchers on the presence of a
secondary cannabinoid receptor within HER2, known as
CB2. This CB2 receptor inhibits cell proliferation by
providing a binding site for the cannabinoid mixture4.

Figure 1: How
Trastuzumab
(Herceptin) work
as a monoclonal
antibody
to
recruit immune
cells and attack
cancerous cells

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But is it effective at all? Clinical trials such as the one conducted by Dr Guzman show a great
potential in the future of this treatment. Unlike its current legal competitor, Trastuzumab (also
known as Herceptin), this treatment provides successful results in trials in a laboratory setting.
Trastuzumab has been proven to be ineffective in about 75% patients suffering with
EbrB2-overexpressing tumors, with nearly 15% of the responders developing metastatic forms of
cancer. The action mechanism of Trastuzumab on cell receptors differs from the cannabinoid
mixture by acting as an antibody that is able to attach and flag the HER2 receptor on the surface
of the cell for macrophages in the immune system to destroy cancerous cell3. Contrary to this older
treatment, the newer cancer treatment candidate relies only on itself to stop intercellular signal
activity, making it a lot more efficient without compromising the endocrine system health and
healthy surrounding tissue. Another scientific report published in the British Journal of Medicine
claimed that these highly aggressive and low responsive tumors could be efficiently treated with non
-psychoactive CB2-selective agonists without affecting the surrounding healthy tissue1.

Figure 2 HER2 cell receptor being activated, causing cell proliferation (rapid cell division)

However, one important consideration needs to be taken into account before making any conclusions
about the usage of cannabis - the laboratory trials are conducted under special conditions, with
specific concentrations of cannabinoids and special administration methods, which are not always
simulating the human body. Although cannabis is used as a prescribed medication to help cope with
the side effects of chemotherapy and some other mental illnesses2, no study has been able to prove
that recreational use of this drug can either prevent or cure cancer without professional intervention.
To sum up, research papers like these encourages institutions such as NIDA (National Institute of
Drug Abuse) to initiate human trials in order to check the potentials of this plant in medicine.
Who knows, perhaps this plant is the last piece of the
cancer puzzle that we have been trying to solve for decades.

page 8

Potential Aid Towards

MDD And Schizophrenia
Written by: Sachin Kaushal, Hari Suthanthira, & Danyal Mirza

Rexulti is1an antipsychotic drug which was originally synthesized by Otsuka pharmaceuticals and FDA approved on
July 2015 . Proving its benefits through feeding patients with placebos, Otsuka pharmaceuticals was able patent a more
potent form of an antipsychotic drug that could potentially fix patients who suffer from major depressive disorders or
schizophrenia.
Major depressive disorder (MDD) impacts 8% of Canadians / year1. Along with its devastating effects, it can contribute
to forcing an individual to suffer from depression, stress and anger for long periods
of time - all of which can lead the
patient feeling more reluctant to take medical and/or non-medical substances1. Reasons for MDD have been linked to
chemical imbalances within the brain. The brain is the biggest drug dealer - if it cannot keep up with demand through
the production of supply, its clients become depressed, hence the symptoms given to a typical MDD patient. Despite
schizophrenia being much different from MDD, they still remain both as mental disorders with similar symptoms,
which can both be treated with Rexulti. Schizophrenia affects 1% of the Canadian population causing loss of perception, mood swings, confusion, and aggressive or overly relaxed behaviour. Although unknown
of its causes, research
shows that the individuals environment may have a huge impact in causing schizophrenia2.
The treatment of MDD and schizophrenia is done by the biologically active ingredient in Rexulti known as brexpiprazole. The mechanism of action of which brexpiprazole combats depression and schizophrenia is not fully understood,
but has been theorized. The desired effect of brexpiprazole can be situated by partial binding to a specific receptor to
activate biological responses. This activation of a biological response takes place at serotonin (5-HT1A) and dopamine
(D2) receptors, all which are located in the
brain. Another serotonin receptor,5-HT2A, also is inhibited by brexpiprazole to increase the activity of this drug5.The main purpose of increasing activity at specific receptors 6and inhibiting
specific receptors is for the outgrowth of neurites which is said to combat depression and schizophrenia . Neurites are
the extending parts of a neuron. Neurites are a key component of neuron cells because they pick up information from
surrounding neurons and relay it to the rest of the body. Individuals who are depressed and/or have schizophrenia have
damaged neurites so the body cannot pick up the chemical signaling from the body which can either cause an increase
or decreased perked state. The brain
releases certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) which signal neuron cells in order
to keep the body at a perked state3.
One of the marked side effects of Rexulti
is the emergence and worsening of
suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
Patients are alerted of the increased
risk of these conditions in adolescents L2R
and young
3V5adults who are
taking antidepressants. When
Rexulti is prescribed, it is done so
with a Medication Guide which
clearly outlines the uses and risks
of the drug. In clinical trials, the
most common side effects reported
by participants included weight
gain, headaches, nausea, dizziness,
drowsiness, anxiety, insomnia and
an inner sense of restlessness,
such
as feeling the need to move7.

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Nationally Integrating

Our Health Care System

Written by: Rahul Gupta

When everything is successfully stable and operational then why

change? Well, quite simply, change allows for new ideas to manifest
in ways we would have never envisioned. So really, the question
should be, why not make something good even better? We have seen
tremendous advancements in technologies across various industries
and the medical field is no different. Challenges created by new and
existent pandemic diseases around the world have caused medical
professionals to work around the clock to ensure that the best possible
care is given to patients, and these medical professionals
depend on
the technology available to do so. We live in the 21st century where
technology has impacted us in great ways, and we now rely on it for
its accuracy and steadfast capability to help us support others.
Considering the medical sector, we have seen some incredible
developments that have helped drive patient care to new heights. One
key piece of software that helps provide better care that we have
come to learn about is the Alberta
Netcare Electronic Health
Records, simply known as Netcare2. Netcare is an electronic medical
record database for the residents of Alberta, consisting of patients
demographic information, diagnostic imaging, lab results, and
prescription dispensing history. This database allows for better
communication between health care professionals and provides a
uniform platform for all patient information to be placed from labs,
pharmacies, and physicians themselves. This electronic medical
system is extraordinary in its use and should be adopted across
Canada. It has the potential to tremendously improve the way
medical care is given throughout Canada. Netcare has provided a
foundation for improving patient care with its ease of communication
between medical professionals. However, there is still opportunity
for further development such as inclusion of more patient information and family physician visits, allowing physicians to utilize patient
history - as well as a feature of updating notes on their diagnosis
would allow for increased collaboration among health care
professionals. This would be extremely beneficial, especially for
those who constantly visit specialists, who have multiple family
doctors, or those who unfortunately find themselves in an emergency
situation where physicians require medical history in an extremely
time-sensitive manner.

Netcares potential can be further illustrated

by considering a potential scenario where a
patient has gone to a new walk in clinic
because his/her doctor is on vacation or out
of the office. The patient has a sore throat
and complains of difficulty swallowing
food. The doctor examines the patient and
comes to the conclusion that the patient has
strep throat in which case the doctor
prescribes the patient an antibiotic, which in
this specific case would predominantly be1
amoxicillin, cephalexin, or even penicillin .
However, if the patient forgot to mention
about his/her allergy to penicillin, they
would end up with an allergic reaction
which can sometimes be life-threatening
such as an anaphylactic shock in which case
the patient would need immediate medical
attention. This situation can potentially be
circumvented with the implementation of
electronic health records. Netcares unified
database has the ability to simplify efficiently and effectively. In addition, it also serves
up in saving huge governmental costs spent
on repeating tests and reissuing diagnosis.
But the greatest benefit is received by the
patients, the central motive of our
patient-centered health care system.
An even better option would be to adapt this
system at national rather than provincial
system.This would provide Canadians an
opportunity to travel to any part of Canada
without worry and have confidence in
Canadian medical professionals. Lets build
a better and brighter future together for our
Canadian health care system.

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Comfortable In Your Own Skin?

It Might Save Your Life

Written by: Kristella Mae Cafa

Huntingtons disease (HD) is an inherited brain disorder2. HD affects

a type of cell called medium spiny neurons (MSNs) and when
gradually lost, the patient experiences involuntary movements and
gradual cognitive decline1,4,5. At the moment, there are no treatments
that will slow down or stop the disease in humans2 but Scientists at
Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis (WUSTL)
may have provided new hope by converting human skin cells directly
into the specific type of brain cell affected by Huntingtons
disease1,3,4,5.
This study is unusual2 and differs from another skin to brain cell
technique done at the University of Rochester, in that it bypasses any
intermediary steps rather than passing through a stem cell phase,
avoiding the production of multiple cell types1,2,3.
To reprogram the adult human skin cells, senior author Dr. Andrew
S. Yoo, assistant professor of developmental biology at WUSTL, and
his colleagues created an environment that closely mimics that of
brain cells. They understood from their previous work that exposure
to two types of micro RNA, miR-9 and miR-124 changes the cells
into a mix of different types of neurons3. We think that the micro
RNAs are really doing the heavy lifting, said co-first author
Matheus Victor, a graduate student in neuroscience5. The researchers
fine-tuned the chemical signals fed into the skin cells as they were
exposed to the micro RNAs, with the transcription factors guiding the
cells to become MSNs. Different transcription factors would produce
different types of neurons, as they believe that the micro RNAs are
important components wherein cells exposed to transcription factors
alone failed to become neurons3.

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When transplanted into the brains of mice, the converted

cells survived for over six months, exhibiting similar properties to the native MSNs1,3,4,5. These cells are known to
extend projects into certain brain regions. And we found the
human transplanted cells also connected to these distant
targets in the mouse brain. Thats a landmark point about this
paper, said Yoo5.

Figure 1: Exposing the correct combination of

microRNAs and transcription factors can
convert human skin cells (top) into medium
spiny neurons (bottom)

Considering the research involved adult

human skin cells instead of mouse cells or
even human cells at an earlier stage of
development, the team believes their work
presents the possibility of patients using their
own cells in regenerative medicine1. This is
significant because potential future therapies
will have easily accessible cells and will avoid
rejection by the immune system4.

The researchers are now taking this work one

step further by using skin cells from patients
with Huntingtons disease and converting
them into MSNs. They also plan to transplant
the cells into mouse models with Huntingtons
disease to investigate whether these cells can
alleviate some of the symptoms associated
with the disease in animals1,4,5.

page 12

French Kissing

Makes A Terminal For

Bacteria And Viruses

Written by: Brian Assadi

In today's time,
everyone's on their phone texting away, on a
computer in the library, filling up the tank in their
car, and washing their hands before a meal. But has
anyone thought about washing their mouth just as
frequently as they wash their hands? It is evident that the
mouth possesses more than 700 varieties of bacteria, but
interestingly enough, a proportion of these bacteria is determined
by those we are most intimate with 1.
The study was conducted by researchers from Micropia and the Netherlands
Organization for Applied Scientific Research. They asked 21 couples to fill out
questionnaires on their kissing proclivity and the approximate number of times they kissed per day1.
The test subject's mouths were then swabbed for oral microbiota on the tongue and in saliva to determine
bacterial composition and they found that couples that kissed intimately with full tongue contact more than
nine times per day had shared salivary microbiota"1.
On average, the unstimulated flow rate of saliva is 0.3 ml/min, while the stimulated flow rate, which
contributes as much as 80% to 90% of the average daily salivary production is at maximum of 7 ml/min1. The
average saliva volume in the mouth is only 0.74 ml . These numbers indicate that almost constant bacterial
exchange is required to maintain a shared salivary microbiota1. However, it is found in the study that only
about nine kisses per day or in a time period of less than 1 h and 45 min after the latest kiss are required for a
significantly shared salivary microbiota.
It is found in the study that shared salivary microbiota requires a frequent and recent bacterial exchange and
is therefore most conspicuous in couples with high intimate kiss frequencies. The habitat of the microbes on
the dorsal surface of the tongue is more similar among partners1,2. Furthermore, it was found that some of the
consolidated bacteria among partners are only temporarily apparent. Now, although not all bacteria are
harmful if exchanged like some digestive enzymes, foreign bacteria that enter the mouth from foods or from
our hands could prove to be harmful. Some virus's that can be exchanged are: herpes, hepatitis-B, warts,
colds, infectious mononucleosis (also known as kissing disease is caused by Epstein Barr virus)3. Perhaps it
is best to be cautious on Friday nights!

page 13

Alzheimer's Disease Linked

To Poor Dental Health

Written by: Andrew Seif

The Journal of Alzheimer's Disease published a study finding that

people with poor oral hygiene or gum disease could be at a higher risk
of developing Alzheimer's compared with those who have healthy teeth
and gums. Periodontal (gum) disease (PDD) begins with bacterial growth
in the mouth and may end if not properly treated with tooth loss due to
destruction of the tissue that surrounds your teeth. A researcher conducted
studies on ten people with Alzheimers and ten people without the disease showing 4 out of 10 Alzheimers patients had gum disease bacteria in their brain
samples,1 where as the ten people without Alzheimers had no such bacteria in their
samples .
Examination of the samples revealed the presence of Porphyromonas gingivalis in the samples
of the brains affected by Alzheimer's. British scientists also reported finding signs of the
gum-disease bacterium (P. gingivalis) in the brains of Alzheimers patients. This bacterium is
usually found in oral cavities, and enters the blood stream through a variety of daily activities, such
as chewing, eating and brushing teeth. However, it is more likely to enter the blood stream
after
invasive dental treatment, where it is possible that the bacteria can enter the brain regularly2. While
in the bloodstream, the bacteria can settle on heart valves and damage them. Hence, patients with
mitral valve prolapse and other heart anomalies often take an antibiotic before dental procedures to
prevent the bacteria from depositing within the heart. The researchers note, that each time the
bacteria enter the brain, this could potentially
trigger immune system responses, causing the release
of excess chemicals that can kill neurons3. The neurons destroyed could lead to symptoms such as
confusion and deteriorating memory typical systems of Alzheimers disease.
Keeping your teeth and gums healthy is a major role in preventing diseases that may be associated
with gum disease such as Alzheimers. Gum disease can be reversed in nearly all cases when
proper plaque control is practiced. Proper plaque
control requires going to a dental professional for
cleaning at least twice a year and daily brushing
and flossing. Brushing eliminates plaque from
the surfaces of the teeth that can be reached,
while flossing removes food particles and
plaque in between the teeth and under the
gum line. Antibacterial mouth wash rinses
can also reduce bacteria that cause plaque
and gum disease, according to the
American Dental Association. Prevention
of gum disease is very similar to how an
individual would attempt to eliminate gum
disease. Also visiting the dentist when any
signs of oral pain or discomfort is
observed. The effects of gum disease go
much further than the generic bad
breath, it affects the whole body.

page 14

Is Addium a Real Life NZT-48?

Written by: Benjamin McArthur

The spectrum of faces comprising a courses second midterm is more or less the same year after year. The
stressed, the unkempt, the highly caffeinated peers know that if they do not at least pass this exam they will be
destined to slug it out in the spring semester. Those who heir the cool breeze of confidence are the resentful few
who have been studying since October, or are practising a frighteningly conservative bedtime. Of those repeat
faces assigned to your exam room, as of late there is a new face in the crowd. They are the calm, collected, and
questionably medicated; but nobody thinks twice.
Amphetamine-dextroamphetamine, known more commonly as Adderall, is the stereotypical
performance-enhancing drug sought out by North American students1. Second only to methylphenidate (shelf
name Ritalin), Adderall is one of the most commonly prescribed stimulants, with production increasing
steadily since 1996 to serve tens of millions current patients. Due to the trafficking that accompanies its sales,
as well as the potentially addictive nature, Adderall XR and Ritalin are considered schedule II drugs in the
United States and schedule II and III (respectively) controlled substances in Canada: making the same list as
oxycontin and Tylenol 32. Polls such as that conducted by Nature in 2009 have determined that somewhere
between 20% and 40% of college-aged adults consume cognitive enhancers; more often white male
undergrads3,4. Similarly, unclear is whether the increase in cognitive enhancer production is a function of the
increase in truthful ADHD diagnoses, or a result of doctors writing scripts for patients seeking answers for a
different type of problem5. Regardless, while consumers purchase neurological stimulants, they will be
produced for whoever can afford them.
The molecular design of stimulants is structured to achieve two tasks: crossing the blood-brain barrier, and
increasing the stimulation of certain areas of the brain. The latter can be completed through preventing
biological inhibition pathways, such as the compound inhibiting proteins that disassemble neurotransmitters or
otherwise inhibiting synaptic ion channel gating6. Clinical testing is usually initiated in non-human subjects to
assess the efficacy of the drug before human trials begin, which pinpoint the nature of the stimulation. Though
one is quick to remember that all legal clinical trials feature a series of experimental and control groups
receiving drugs or placebo, few know that healthy patient consumption is mandatory to evaluate bioavailability
or bioequivalence. In Canada, trial-specific data is hard to track down, but the result of healthy patient studies
is seen in the marketing of Adderall dosages from 5 mg to 30 mg, and the assurance that the worst side effect
is cardiac stress (or psychosis)4,7,8.

page 15

Students self-medicating students under a YOLO

modus operandi to obtain the appropriate narcotics are
at a greater risk than their peers with prescriptions.
Addium, one of many alternative cognitive enhancers,
is transparent in its lack of FDA approval9 and steadfast
in its guarantee for cerebral enhancement .This cerebral
enhancement complex is comprised of raw
neurotransmitters and herbs, one of which is believed to
increase ventricular blood flow across the brain
(Bacopamonnieri), but a thorough meta-analysis cant
prove B. monnieri10 is anything more than Chinese
Herbal medicine .Health Canada and similar
government agencies keep consumers safe from
products that have not underwent rigorous longitudinal
studies, proving that people do not die or otherwise are
mentally handicapped as a result of not dying, and
continue to evaluate marketable products for potential
risk. In March of 2015, Health Canada determined that
those who consume ADHD remedying drugs are at11a
Figure 1. Performance enhancing drug usage described
in percentage, as predicted by age of poll respondent.
heightened risk of developing suicidal tendencies .
Adverse reactions to Addium can be read in the
Cognitive enhancement exists in ethical Amazon.ca comments section - the informed consumer
controversy, but as far as your local is unwise to trust any drug with testimonials that are not
university is concerned, there is nothing orated by their family physician.
forbidding cognitive 12enhancer use for
Professors,
academic
purpose .
researchers, and journalists alike have
spoken up for the use of drugs to pass
exams, write grant proposals, and
otherwise
perform optimally in their
field3,4,13. The consensus is if one consumes
drugs for testing purposes, they are held
accountable to the same calibre of
performance post-examination. On a
philosophical ground, with legal
supplements available on demand
(assuming no considerable side effects
from off-label use), what stops academia
from consuming cognitive enhancers
regularly to even competition, or laypeople
from using cosmetic
neurology to get an
edge in dating4,13?
3

Governmental regulation would have to oversee federal consumption as supplement use becomes a
cultural norm, resulting in a possibly more scholastic or self-conscious society, but definitely a collective
intellect that is subject to the rise and fall of pharmaceutical stocks. Drug dependence on a psychological
or cultural level could lead to a world that worships controlled substances; however 4,14
attractive the
aesthetics of unlocking your potential may be, this is a future we are not prepared for . A drug of
similar potential impact became such an intrinsic part of Western culture after being legalized almost one
hundred years ago, marketed with intent to lower an individuals social inhibitions. Since then,15 the World
Health Organization estimates that alcohol leads to 2.5 million deaths a year, worldwide . A future
focused on consumption of any sort of regulated drug may not feature bars where people go to pop pills,
play Jeopardy and debate ontology, but rather accelerated innovation on the idea that a pharmaceutical
product is allowed to be a part of daily life.
Academics are unlikely to come to consensus regarding the future of cognitive enhancement. We humans
have become so medically advanced, we readily give solutions to problems we have not fully evaluated.
What is clear is that a culture that bases its standards of achievement on what has been done in the past, is
by no means a good model for producing a healthy society. Perhaps it is time we ask ourselves, Why do
healthy people use drugs?
page 16

High Intensity Exercise Or Conventional Exercise

For Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Written by: Sim Singh, Suki Pannu, and Pavleen Dhillon

Arthritis is another form of describing inflammation in a joint. It causes redness,

swelling, warmth and pain. Rheumatoid arthritis in particular affects joints on
both sides of the body, for example, both knees and elbows. This type of
arthritis affects the body by enabling the immune system cells to move into
joints and joint lining tissue, called synovium3. Once these cells have arrived,
they cause inflammation leading towards irritation that gradually wears down
the cartilage, which is material between the bones to help absorb shocks. The
more the cartilage is worn down, the greater the degree of pain4.
Conventional exercise programs consist of calmly performed exercises for the5
joints not leading to tiredness for example bending and stretching of the arm .
They also cannot be compared with fitness training or sports3. On the other
hand, a high intensity exercise involves movements or activities that will lead
the body to become fatigued. A simple example of a high intensity workout
would be fifteen minutes of cycling, followed by thirty minutes of fitness or
strength related exercise3.

page 17

Figure 1: Outcome expectations for HIE

and CE of patients, rheumatologists, and
physiotherapists3

The use of high intensity exercise programs with patients with rheumatoid arthritis was
believed to have harmful effects on disease activity and joint damage. This is when the use of
conventional exercise was incorporated into these patients training programs3. Studies
published in the past few decades have proved that high intensity exercises are better at
increasing physical fitness and muscle strength than conventional exercises and have no
detrimental effects on disease activity3. High intensity exercise was encouraged for RA patients
but the implementation was hindered by the negative thoughts of RA patients, rheumatologists
and physiotherapists3. In the study conducted by G.S. Metsios Et Al., exercise has proven to
reverse joint damage in patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis.
RA patients, rheumatologists and physiotherapists were asked for their own opinions on the
two types of exercises that can be used on patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Their responses
were collected through a questionnaire sent out to 662 RA patients, 132 rheumatologists and
467 physiotherapists3. The majority of the RA patients and rheumatologists had more positive
expectations about conventional training programs than of high intensity exercise programs3.
In conclusion despite the existing evidence supporting the effectiveness and safety of high
intensity exercise, RA patients, physiotherapists, and rheumatologists all together have a more
positive expectation from the old style conventional type exercise for these patients with RA.

page 18

Physiotherapy Intervention For

Parkinsons Disease
Written by: Nikhil Gandhi and Veen Murali

Parkinsons disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease.

In simpler terms, it is a disease that worsens
over time as the brain continues to lose dopamine neurons1. These neurons form to create dopamine in the brain
that helps with bodily movements. A reduction in dopamine neurons creates a decrease in dopamine. This
depletion in dopamine will cause1 strange behavior in movements such as shakiness, stiffness, slower
movements, and a lack of stability . Parkinsons disease causes evident physical deficiencies; however, it is a
disease of the brain. This means
that victims of this disease also face symptoms such as depression, memory
loss, and lack of concentration1.
Despite the horrific signs and symptoms of Parkinsons, there is still no known cause or cure for 1this disease.
This disease can be inherited genetically as family history is a critical influence to 15% of patients . Treatment
is available in terms of medication or surgery. Unfortunately, it only minimizes the effects of this disease rather
curing it.
Physiotherapy intervention involves using physical therapy to prevent disease, injury, and disability3.
Physiotherapy intervention for Parkinsons
disease is focused towards posture, upper limb function, balance,
gait, physical capacity, and activity2. Ideally, the strategy with physical therapy is to use certain cues, cognitive
movements, and exercises to help patients maintain or increase an independent, self-sufficient lifestyle2.

In order to understand the effects of physical therapy on Parkinsons disease, experimental trials have been done
to assess various physiotherapy methods used to treat patients. The experiments
compared a physiotherapy
intervention versus no physiotherapy intervention including placebo control4.
The outcomes of physiotherapy intervention with Parkinsons disease have been encouraging in the last five
years. The United Kingdom National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) and the Royal Dutch
Society of Physical2 Therapy have supported the treatment benefits of physiotherapy on patients with
Parkinsons disease . In fact, 54%
of the 13,000 members surveyed by Parkinsons UK in 2008 had visited a
physiotherapist for assistance2. During the experimental trials, there were significant improvements found in
terms of gait, functional mobility, balance, and falls.
Various physiotherapy methods2 were used to treat patients including exercise, treadmill training, functional
reach testing, and gait speed . The observed differences between the two treatments groups were not
tremendous; however, improvements were recognized. The short-term evidence supports the use of
physiotherapy for people diagnosed with Parkinsons disease.

Table 1: Improvement of gait with the

use of physiotherapy intervention2

page 19

Joining A Field That Is

Predominantly Female
Written by: Shaylea Moschella and Rosemarie Lauren

It is no secret that Canadas population is aging.

According to Statistics Canada, in the twenty years that
the baby boom lasted, more than 8.2 million babies
were born. That would mean that the average was just
shy of 412, 000 babies born each year. According to the
same study, in 2008, when the population was twice as
large, approximately 377, 886 babies were born each
year1. Therefore, it is no surprise that there are many
people in Generation Z that have taken an interest in the
medical field.
In particular, nursing has become a more
favourable career path due to the aging population.
However, like most careers, there are preconceived
ideas of what to expect. When people hear about
the nursing occupation, most will often think of a
female, which may or may not be the case.
Although the field of study is predominantly
female, there are fair shares of males who are
Figure 1: This table clearly shows the ratio between
currently in or are joining the field.
female and male nurses, and the differences between.
From the nurses graduating in 2019 from Brock
University there have been only five found among
them. It is apparent and quite obvious that nursing
seems to still be considered more of a female driven
occupation. However, through social media, a couple of
future male nurses were contacted to answer a couple of questions.
One of the students is entering his third year and the other entering second year at
Brock University. Both of the males stated there were no differences in treatment
among the males and females in their classes from educators and/or peers. Both of
the students also said that their peers have always acted respectfully and
responsibly showing that their gender has yet to affect them. Occasionally, female
patients have an issue with male students being in the room, however this happens
far less frequently than one might imagine. In the first two years of the program, I
have only been asked to leave the room once. writes one Brock student.
According to a study done in 2013 by the U.S Census Bureau, the male nursing
population has definitely increased over the years. It states that back in the 1970s
only 2.7% of nurses were male,2 and as of 2013 the percent has increased up to 9.6%
male . Although its still a small percentage, its enough
to show that over time the gender expectations are
changing, and more males are becoming interested in a
field that used to be known as female only. Based on
Therefore,
another study done in 1990, more proof was shown to
the
us that Nursing is female dominant. In each age
gender-based
category, females are always just a little bit higher, or
stereotypes
in some cases much higher (See figure 1). Nursing
surrounding the nursing
field, are all that they seem to
is an undying field, somewhere you will always
be-stereotypes. The stereotype
find a job - no wonder men are wanting in. And
may exist, but who's to say it will
whos to say they cant? Thanks to the years that
ten years from now? Population is
passed, the gender stereotypes are being dropped
changing as we speak, who knows
little by little and maybe just maybe, we can lose
what will happen then. For now we
can easily state that gender is not what makes a nurse a nurse. the female perception of a nurse.
3

Gender does not save lives. Gender does not affect the
capabilities of hard workers. Gender is a label. At the
end of the day, the population is aging and all that
matters is that there are capable workers out
there willing to lend a hand.

page 20

Specialized Nursing: Dermatology

Written by: Tanis Laramee, Simran Atwal, and Shaylea Moschella

Imagine being torn between two careers and struggling to choose only one. Well for some that may no
longer be the case. The nursing field offers registered nurses (RNs) the opportunity to specialize in an
area of interest. For example, dermatology nursing allows nurses to specialize in dermatology, thus
"killing two birds with one stone", as the saying goes.
Dermatology nursing is a newer option for registered nurses (RNs) to specialize in. To get a grasp at
what dermatology nurses do, their main concern is to treat wounds, injuries, and diseases of the skin as
well as perform skin cancer and post-plastic surgery treatments.1

Interested in dermatology nursing? Here's how to become

one:

First, you must become a registered nurse (RN), which can be achieved by earning a Licensed Practical
Nurse (LPN) certification, Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN), or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing
(BSN, BScN), and passing the new entry-to-practice exam (NCLEX-RN). The next step is to gain at
least two years, or two thousand hours of experience in dermatology at a healthcare facility. Finally, to
become a certified dermatology nurse, you must pass the Dermatology Nurse Certified (DNC) exam.
The successful completion of these steps will entitle you to be a dermatology nurse.1

What does dermatology nursing offer?

Dermatology nurses receive an average of $85,000 annually. This is beneficial as dermatology nurses
earn about $15,000 more, annually, compared to registered nurses who have not specialized in an area.1

page 21

Kumdang-2: Reality Or A Myth?

Written by: Taylor Coderre

Much of todays society is driven with the belief of creating a better world, and Kumdang-2 is on course
with such ideology. This new and improved
drug is a wonder injection that is able to cure cancer, AIDS,
MERS, Ebola and other diseases1. This drug sounds too prodigious to be true. Created from
insam
saccharides (ginseng), light rare earth elements, and micro-quantities of gold and platinum2, nothing
sounds either ground breaking or sufficient to cure these fatal diseases. So is this injection the real
deal?
An investigation into the Kumdung 2 website highlights a few crucial fallacies: lack of public
information, abundant spelling mistakes and sole production in Russia and North Korea2. From the
lack of information provided, it is hard to believe that this drug is the wonder drug it claims to be
especially without any reviews from so-called cured 'customers. The study results posted on the
Kumdang-2 official website fails to provide information such as the gender of people treated, age
group, general health, and other basic details most studies would include. Only information
provided is a list of diseases claimed to be curable, number of people treated, average amount of
Kumdang-2 injected per person, and the success rate of the treatment.
Surprisingly enough, none of the participants noticed any change in their health condition. The
only credible thing worth noticing though is the hospital where the tests took place. Pyongyang
Medical University Hospital Ryonhwa-Dongis
North Koreas top medical hospital, and conducts
the countrys biological warfare research3, providing some credibility to the study.
Even though the studies may seem highly unrealistic, there might be some truth behind the
madness per-say. According to Mr. Pink, ginseng, an ingredient of the drug, has been proven to be
capable of preventing certain types of cancer, protect the immune 4system, improve cardiovascular
health, control blood sugar levels, and boost mental performance . This correlates with the study
results listed on the Kumdang-2 website. Other research shows that
platinum bonds are also
applied at the molecular levels to medicine in order to cure cancer5. But, even with these facts
regarding the ingredients used in the drugs, the study provides little detail, resulting in skepticism
towards it.
In addition, acquiring the drug is also not as easy as getting it prescribed from the doctor. It can
only be ordered online from selected websites, including Kumdang-2. These websites sell one
pack of injections at a price of $50.002 USD, increasing to $135.00 USD for three packs, and
$280.00 USD for seven packs . Each pack contains total of eight injections.. The
recommended2 dosage on the website is 3 packs for minor and 7 packs for major
illnesses . Just 7 packs of this drug to get rid of cancer makes it a highly unrealistic
claim. Living on the opposite side of the world, it is difficult to foretell
whether this drug will live up to its claims. But even a slim probability of
this claim to be true will lead its prices to sky-rocket and its
popularity worldwide. You never know, this might be the medical
revelation that society has been waiting for.

FIGURE 1: Image of the official

Kumdang-2 casing as of 2015.

page 22

Treating Immunodeficiency
Written by: Rahul Gupta and Manny Singh

HIV, otherwise known as Human Immunodeficiency Virus, is a high variable virus that
mutates readily, ultimately causing AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). There
are 2 types of HIV of which both are transmitted through sexual contact: HIV-1 and HIV-2,
the globally predominant one being HIV-11. Janssen Therapeutics has synthesized a
prescription drug called Prezcobix, which along with other antiretroviral medicines can be
used to treat HIV-1 in adults2.
Prezcobix is a combination prescription in the form of a fixed dose tablet containing 800mg
Darunavir, a protease inhibitor, and 150mg Cobicistat the pharmacokinetic enhancing or
boosting agent. Darunavir inhibits the dimerization and catalytic activity of the HIV-1
protease by binding with a KD of 4.5x10-12 M3. It selectively inhibits the cleavage of
HIV-encoded enzymes in the virus-infected cells, thus preventing the formation of mature
infectious virus particles. Cobicistat is a selective, mechanism-based inhibiter of the CYP3A
subfamily. CYP3A is a human gene that catalyzes drug metabolism in humans. Inhibition of
CYP3A-mediated metabolism allows enhanced systemic exposure of Darunavir and
increases Darunavirs bioavailability and half-life.
Prezcobix was FDA approved in January of 2015 because of its bioequivalence study
evaluation of the fixed dose combination of Darunavir and Cobicistat versus the single
agents4. The effectiveness of Prezcobix was witnessed through their clinical trials where
pharmacokinetic trials screening exposures of Darunavir when boosted with Cobicistat were
compared to Darunavir boosted with Ritonavir. It is noted that if Prezcobix is taken at the
recommended dose: one daily, along with an antiretroviral medicine, it may help reduce the
amount of HIV-1 in ones blood and increase the number of CD4+ (T) cells to help fight off
other infections.
Adverse reactions to Prezcobix were readily reported to be mild in severity. Noted adverse
effects were abdominal pain, diarrhea, flatulence, nausea and vomiting. increased hepatic
enzymes, increased drug hypersensitivity, along with headaches and a rash were observed.
In simple terms, Prezcobix is a better combination drug that uses Cobicistat instead of
Ritonavir and has seen better results when administered with other antiretroviral medicines.
This combined dose is also a benefactor because of its bioequivalence study done where it
was witnessed taking the fixed dose was superior then taking both agents separately.

Figure 1: Simple statement

showing the risk of not using
a condom while having sex
with your partner

page 23

World's First Bilateral Hand

Transplant On A Child

Written by: Ravinder SIngh

Zion Harvey, an eight-year-old boy currently living in Philadelphia, USA developed

sepsis at the age of two, a life threatening infection. Accordingly, sepsis brings upon a
fatal infection causing inflammation, organ failure and other severe harm.3 Zions entire
body was under bacterial attack; damaging his kidneys, forcing the loss of his two legs
below the knees, and also the amputation of both his hands.
Mercifully, Zion underwent a successful
organ transplant after receiving a kidney
from his mother. Next, he was given
prosthetics to substitute his legs and
feet for the ability to walk, run, and
even jump. Nevertheless, Zions
hands were still absent but
fortunately enough, his family
was referred to the Hand
Transplantation Program at The
Childrens
Hospital
of
Philadelphia led by Dr. L. Scott
Levin. Here forth, bringing the
world to the doorstep of another
revolutionary
medical
breakthrough, the first-ever
bilateral-hand transplantation
on a child, Vascularized
Composite Allotransplantation
(VCA).5
This operation, VCA, has only
been completed by a few
surgical teams around the globe
and never before on a child. A team of
forty medical officials were required for
Zions operation alone. Of course, with such a
radical idea came much risk - a lifetime of
immunosuppressive drugs would be mandatory to ensure
Zions body does not reject the new donor hands.2 Luckily,
anti-rejection drugs were of lesser concern, as Zion did not
encounter any problems after taking the medications for his
previous kidney transplant.

page 24

Figure 1: Zion Harvey is the first child

ever to receive a double hand
transplant.5

Figure 2: A 40-Person medical team

was required to perform Zions
surgery.5

Additionally, hand surgery for adult patients is a much less

complicated procedure than pediatric surgery. The bones and
anatomical structures
of children are extremely miniscule and require skillful experience for such
surgical operations.1 Moreover, as an eight-year-old Zion has much growing to do and surgeons must
ensure that his limbs will grow appropriately. Specifically in children, growth plates are present in
some areas of the bone and surgeons must take extra precaution to avoid damaging these plates in order
to allow Zions hands to grow and lengthen normally. Irrefutably, there was definite complexity and
uncertainty in performing this surgical operation.
A collaborative effort of ten surgeons executed various parts of the scrupulous surgery. Zions hands
and arms were connected by attaching his bones, vessels, nerves, muscles, tendons, and lastly skin.
After linking the first blood vessel between his arms and the donors
hands, Zions new palms and
fingers turned pink, indicating successful blood circulation.5 Thus, the medical team gained
encouragement and continued to perform the operation.
After an eleven-hour operation with a forty-person medical team, Zion was reborn. The extensive
surgery was successful and Zion became a boy with two hands. For several weeks Zion will be
exercising his new hands with physical and occupational therapists at the hospital to ensure he safely
learns to reap all the benefits of his two new hands. Rest assured, with such a resilient spirit, there is no
doubt Zion will one day swing on those monkey bars for which he so badly desired hands.
page 25

Are Our Telomeres the

Fountain of Youth?

Written by: Manny Singh

Telomeres are protein structures that cap both ends of the chromosome to protect it from
nucleolytic degradation, unnecessary recombination, repair and inter-chromosomal fusion. These
structures play a significant role in preserving the information of our genome and allowing the
cell to continuously replicate. However as the cell repeatedly undergoes cell division, little bits of
the telomeric DNA is lost. Over a period of time, the cell will lose enough telomeric DNA so that
it reaches a critical limit causing the cell to go through apoptosis or programmed cell death. In
other words, cell death occurs due
to telomere loss causing a higher chance of age-associated
diseases and decrease of life-span1.
Normally, telomere length decreases with age at a rate of 24.8-27.7 base pairs per year10.
However, telomere length can be affected by a combination of factors such as genetics, epigenetic
make-up, environment, social and economic
status, exercise, body weight and smoking. Gender
does not have an effect on telomere loss2. Examining elderly people shows that4 shorter telomeres
have a higher rate of mortality comparatively to people with longer telomeres .
Smoking is an easy way to increase telomere shortening and speed up to the process of aging.8 An
increase in telomere shortening in blood cells of tobacco smokers has also been observed . An
additional 5 base pairs were lost when comparing an average smoker to a non-smoker. Smoking
a pack of cigarettes a day for 40 years is equivalent to the loss of 7.4 years of a persons life10.
Obesity also plays a role in excessive telomere shorting due to increased oxidative stress leading
to DNA damage. Elevated levels of reactive oxygen species in obese animals were detected in
white adipose tissue but not in other tissues. Leading to the idea that increased oxidative stress
brought upon by obesity can expedite telomere
shortening. Loss of telomeres in obese people is
equivalent to about 8.8 years of ones life6.
Harmful agents in the environment also negatively affect telomere length. Exposure to pollution,
specifically toluene and benzene, caused a reduction in telomere length that is associated
with
DNA damage. This sort of exposure can lead to a cancer risk and increased pace of aging7.
Stress is directly related to telomere shortening as stress causes the release of glucocorticoid
steroid hormones by the adrenal gland. These hormones decrease
the amount of antioxidant
proteins and cause similar oxidative damage to DNA as obesity11.
Significant ways to prevent the affects of telomere shortening can be done so by dietary
restrictions and exercise. Increased fiber
intake and decreased intake of polyunsaturated fatty
acids showed positive telomere length3. Surprisingly, a decrease of protein by 40% led to a 15%
increase in life span in rats. To counter act the oxidative damage done by obesity and stress, it was5
observed that a diet containing omega-3 fatty acids reduced the rate of telomere shortening .
Dietary restrictions also show an extremely positive impact on health and longevity. Reduced
food intake in animals reduced oxidative burden and reduced DNA damage.
Conclusively, it can be seen that there is scientific evidence to prove that correlation between
telomere length and the bodys longevity. As one will age, the length of their telomeres will
decrease but at a rate that
is in essence able to slowed or sped up depending on lifestyle choices
and their environment9.

Figure 1: Identifying the telomeric DNA

in a normal strand of chromosome

page 26

Is It Really All In The Mind?

Potential link between Depression and Brain Inflammation

Written by: Danial Behzad

Depression its a word heard often these days, with individuals using it to describe lifes
everyday struggles. Although the increased use of the word doesnt come as a surprise, with
mental health concerns for college students in North America
on the rise over the past few years,
it is important not to downplay the severity of depression1. Depression is a serious mental health
issue characterized
by feelings of despondency and dejection ranging from mild to life
threatening2,3. As per Health Canada, 11% of4 men and 16% of women in Canada will experience
major depression at some point in their lives . Therefore, it is important to prevent the overuse of
such words, to help garnish awareness and understanding of depression as a mental health issue.
Furthermore, it is important to eliminate any misconceptions that may arise due to inappropriate
use of the word. Contrary to popular belief that depression is all just in the mind the ideology
that the change of ones thoughts would be the solution recent research has
shown physical
5,6
changes associated with depression, specifically inflammation in the
brain
.
Inflammation
is
essentially the bodys natural response to any infection or disease6. One may wonder why an
immune response would be harmful to the body, yet it is important to recognize that everything in
the body must maintain a balance and anything in excess may be harmful. As is the case with
inflammation in the brain; too much inflammation in the brain can be damaging and also helps
explain
various depressive symptoms, such as low mood, loss of appetite, and reduced ability to
sleep6,7.
A compelling research study by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health that was published in
JAMA Psychiatry states that the measure of7 brain inflammation was increased by 30% for people
who were experiencing clinical depression . In order to come to this conclusion, Dr. Meyer and
his research team conducted PET (positron emission tomography) brain scans on 20 individuals
with clinical depression and 20 healthy control patients. Through this process, the research team
was able to examine and measure the activation of
microglia immune cells that play an
instrumental role in the brains inflammatory process6,7. The scans went on to reveal a correlation
between depression and inflammation, with the 6inflammation most severe among the participants
with the most severe depression, and vice versa .

Figure 1: PET Scan

Comparison of Brain
Activity When Depressed
vs Not Depressed10

page 27

Similarly, previous research published in Nature Reviews

Neuroscience by Dr. Dantzer and peers yielded a similar
response. Their focus was also on the brains inflammatory
process, looking at pro-inflammatory cytokines, including
interleukin-1
and , tumour necrosis factor-, and
interleukin-68. As mentioned earlier that inflammation may help
explain various depressive symptoms; it is important to note that
cytokines in the brain can disrupt the production and stimulate
the release of several important signalling chemicals, including
serotonin, dopamine and glutamate. The aforementioned process
not only helps control
emotion, appetite, and sleep, but also
learning and memory9. Their reasoning is that in response to an
infection, immune cells produce cytokines which in return, act on
the brain causing sickness. If the production goes unabated, it
may lead to the development of symptoms of depression in
vulnerable individuals, especially those who are already
physically ill. This in return may answer why physically ill
people are more likely to suffer from depression and helps
researchers determine that 8inflammation does indeed play a
significant role in depression .
These research studies open up various avenues for
possible new treatments of clinical depression. With the
knowledge that inflammation is an essential part of depression,
development of new treatments should look to target
inflammation as well. This can be achieved by either reversing
the inflammation or shifting it towards a more positive reparative
role. The use of inflammatory drugs may be crucial to alleviate
the symptoms of patients with severe depression, as more than
half of the people
with major depression do not respond to
antidepressants6 .Therefore, the discovery of the relationship
between inflammation and depression can prove to be pivotal in
finding a suitable treatment for patients who suffer from this
serious mental health issue.

page 28

POWERED BY

///

page 29

2015-2016 EXECUTIVE CIRCLE

Say hello to our 2015-2016 executive circle that helped to make MedMag a success!

Pre-Med Parent Branch

Founder/President

Iraj Zunair Afzal

Vice-Presidents

Saad Hanan
Wisdom Dickson

Finance Manager

Alina Jaglanian
Secretary

Alina Jaglanian
Public Relations Managers

Anmol K. Nandha
Pavleen Dhillon

Marketing Managers

Sonia Aksamit
Danial Behzad

Technology/Web Manager

Brian Assadi

Pre-Pharmacy Subsidiary

Pre-Physio Subsidiary

Vice-President
Rahul Gupta

Vice-President
Kirina Angrish

Finance Manager
Danyal Mirza

Finance Manager
Suki Pannu

Secretary
Danyal Mirza

Secretary
Veen Murali

Public Relations Manager

Rozhannaa Sothilingam
Hari Suthanthira

Public Relations Manager

Pavleen Dhillon

Marketing Manager
Manny Singh

Marketing Managers
Nikhil Gandhi

President
Sachin Kaushal

President
Simranjit Summan

page 30

Pre-Dentistry Subsidiary

Nursing Subsidiary

Vice-President
Andrew Seif

Vice-President
Shaylea Moschella

Finance Manager
Rebecca Parry

Finance Manager
Nicole Lattimer

Secretary
Farah Halbouni

Secretary
Tanis Laramee

Public Relations Manager

Mehar Dhindsa

Public Relations Manager

Rosemarie Moretti

Marketing Manager
Chandni Patel

Marketing Managers
Simran Atwal

President
Brian Assadi

President
TBA

MedMag Subsidiary
Founder/President

Iraj Zunair Afzal

Vice-Presidents

Rafeh Shah
Fouad Jibril

Finance Manager

TBA

Secretary

Hassan Bukhari
Marketing Managers

Ravinder Singh
Hassan Bukhari

Writers

Danial Behzad
Manny Singh
Taylor Codorre
Chriztian Betancourt
Sukhi Manku
Ben McArthur
Rama Gibs
Ravinder Singh
Rahul Gupta
Kristella Mae Cafa
Editors

Fouad Jibril
Brandon Haidon
Kristella Mae Cafa
Shilpee Rana
Mohamed Hamade
Brockpremed.com
@BrockPremed
/BrockPremed
Brock PreMed Society
BrockPreMedSociety@gmail.com
Register on ExperienceBU!

page 31

 Copyright 2015-2016 Brock Pre-Med Society & its subsidiary branches.

The photos in this work are properties of their respective owners as we do not take
credit for any artwork/photography. Images and work have been cited to provide their
respective users the due credit and can be found on our website. MedMag can be
distributed among Brock University students and will be provided for free to students.
An online digital copy is also available please support digitization to protect the
environment.

Brockpremed.com
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