Neuro Newsflash - Issue 1

MARCH 18TH

events

Insights from our speed networking event

Post-baccaleureate initatives explored

Dr. Serruya: developments in neurotech

page 4-9

brain health series

tips by hope bassett

crossword puzzle and citations

page 28-29

P.2

page 12

David Smith

page 20

professor spotlight student spotlight

page 24

Jack Pudwill

OnJanuary 31st, Temple’s National Honor Society in Neuroscience, Nu Rho Psi, hosted a speed-networking event, bringing together students from various neuroscience disciplines to discuss their respective areas of focus. This event, designed to foster connections and knowledge-sharing among peers, showcased the diverse community within the neuroscience discipline at Temple University.

One collective experience that stood out was the vast number of students involved in labs on campus. It allowed everyone to get insights into their ongoing projects by comparing workloads and techniques used in the labs. It also provided an opportunity for those who are interested in research to get some advice on how to reach out to lab coordinators in hopes of joining a project. Freshman neuroscience major, Flourish Anwuri, when asked her best takeaway from the event, said, “I learned about how to secure different research opportunities within and outside of Temple.”Coincidentally, the event took on an advice-heavy tone, particularly for underclassmen eager to navigate their academic journey effectively. Students exchanged tips and recommendations about which courses to take, when to take them, and even which professors to take.

“I learned about how to secure different research opportunities within and outside of Temple.”

Amidst the lively discussion, a few CLA neuroscience majors commented on their gratitude for choosing the College of Liberal Arts (CLA) neuroscience programme over the College of Science and Technology (CST) when discussing the differences in Temple’s neuroscience curriculum. Some students even highlighted their unique journey of majoring in Neuroscience through CLA while on the pre-med track and how that affords them the best of both worlds.

Overall, the Nu Rho Psi speed-networking event proved to be a helpful platform for fostering connections and offering guidance within the neuroscience community. As students continue to navigate their paths both academically and professionally, events like these serve as a pillar of support and camaraderie in hopes of a brighter and more connected community in neuroscience.

NEAVA ZAYAS

events

Bridging the Gap: Post-Baccalaureate Research Initiatives Explored

OnFebruary 7th, the Association of Neuropsychology Students in Training (ANST) provided valuable insight on the pathway of post-baccalaureate research opportunities and graduate school in a seminar hosted by Molly Tassoni, Stephanie Simone, and Sophia Holmqvist, three graduate students from Temple University. Although the procedure to becoming a neuropsychologist is extensive, Tassoni, Simone, and Holmqvist presented the information in an accessible format to aid college students who are struggling on their journey.

The seminar guest speakers outlined a common timeline students typically follow upon completing a baccalaureate program which most often includes gap years. These years provide a dual purpose for students–not only do they allow students to obtain research and clinical experience, but also provide a crucial outlet for self-discovery. Through involvement with research, students have the unique opportunity to figure out their research interests within the field of neuropsychology.

Typically, post-baccalaureate positions involve a commitment of 2-3 years in a research or clinical field. However, securing these positions is not a straightforward process. Based on their own experiences, ANST members recommended students email researchers they are interested in working under. Unlocking post-baccalaureate research opportunities involves leveraging social media platforms such as Twitter and LinkedIn. By creating a strong online presence, individuals can expand their network and discover potential avenues for involvement. Additionally, ask!

questing referrals from your mentors and higher-ups is a great way to get yourself involved in post-baccalaureate research. A recurring theme throughout the seminar was the importance of connections to obtain letters of recommendations. Establishing a good relationship with mentors is imperative for harboring lifelong connections that can benefit you down the line. These connections are especially beneficial when getting letters of recommendation. Holmqvist shared that her letters were from two research mentors and a professor she was a teaching assistant for.

In admissions, schools mainly look for research experience as proof of organizational and time management skills as well as a personal statement, cover letter transcripts and letters of recommendation.. Schools also look for intellectual curiosity; they want to see the passion for research and the effort you’re willing to put in. Typically, schools look for a GPA of at least a 3.5 but the ANST members emphasized that if you have a lower GPA, it does not stop you from getting into graduate school and should not discourage you. The ANST members recommended mentoring programs, which are programs that will look over your personal statement and cover letters and assist you in making them satisfactory. After this is completed, they also recommend applying to 12-15 schools so you have the best chance of getting in.

Graduate school is competitive and it can be a scary process, but don’t let it deter you! Being passionate is exactly what schools want and it will set you up for success. Molly Tassoni, Stephanie Simone, and Sophia Holmqvist proved this by providing tidbits from their experiences and the advice they’ve been given during their journey of applying to graduate school.

HOPE BASSETT

events

Dr.

Examines the Develop- ments in Neurotechnology During the First Neuroscience Seminar of the Year

Mijail Serruya

The

Psychology

&

Neuroscience Departments Seminar Series, coordinated and hosted with the help of Dr. Vinay Parikh, typically consists of 5-6 presentations led by researchers primarily residing in the Philadelphia metropolitan area. These Neuroscience seminars are for students, interested in different areas of research that they might not otherwise be exposed to in a classroom setting.

Dr. Mijail Serruya from Thomas Jefferson University presented the first seminar of 2024, titled “Neurotechnology to Restore Independent Function” for which he held a lively Q&A session with various researchers and graduate and undergraduate students. Dr. Mijail Serruya, a board- certified Neurologist and a PhD recipient, started his career at Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University. He then continued his education at the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) for residency and later returned to Brown for his PhD. Later, he completed a fellowship at UPenn and is now an acting physician and neuroscientist at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. Besides this, Dr. Serruya is the founder of Neurodelphus LLC and an associate professor, who mentors various graduate and undergraduate students.

At Jefferson, Dr. Serruya primarily works in the Center for Neurorestoration, where he is amongst bioengineers, software developers, and neuroscientists in a multidisciplinary team. Before starting the presentation, Dr. Serruya emphasized the importance of working with people who have other backgrounds to gain different perspectives and a deeper understanding of the research that is being done.

After introducing his team, Dr. Serruya led the presentation by explaining that his main goal as a neuroscientist and neurologist is to solve major disorders affecting millions that deal with the central nervous system (CNS). Dr. Serruya then explained that one of the major medical causes of death is stroke, and at Jefferson each year he sees almost 5,000 patients who come into the Emergency Department (ED) with this condition. Dr. Serruya explains that it may be because of his engineering-like thought processes, but he felt that there had to be some solution to this problem.

At first, Dr. Serruya was interested in focusing neurotechnological developments on those dealing with spinal cord injury. However, he found that this research lacked momentum and because of this he geared his efforts to helping those with stroke–a more prevalent issue in the United States. (cont.) pp. 8-9

The majority of Dr. Serruya’s presentation addressed the research his group focuses on and also similar research being conducted in Philadelphia and at other institutions across the country. Dr. Serruya defined brain machine interfaces as “a medical device or biological construct that links the brain to a computer to restore biological function” to describe the type of technology he develops. The main device on which Dr. Serruya focuses on–neurostimulation–helps to repair damaged motor circuits post-stroke. First, he described how the neural activity of an individual with chronic stroke must be recorded while that individual is attempting to make movements. Once they receive the electrical signal recordings, they can then translate this information using neuroprosthetics to help the person make these movements. This has been the major focus of Dr. Serruya’s research, which has extended these types of questions into other areas of focus. For example, Dr. Serruya is now asking whether these research conditions can be applied to someone with an acute stroke. This is a very interesting question, he says, since it can be very difficult not to further damage someone’s motor cortex circuits immediately after a stroke if using something like neuroprosthetics. After giving the details of his group’s current research, he further provided examples of how neurotechnology can be applied to other issues. For example, he and his team are currently working

to understand the impact of the openloop circuit of spinal cord stimulation and how this compares to closed-loop circuits. Closed-loop circuits, including the neuroprosthetics that Dr. Serruya works on, utilize a feedback system to maintain a set state without human interaction. In comparison, the output signal of open-loop circuits is not fedback for a comparison with the input signal. When compared to neuroprosthetic, open-loop technology such as spinal cord stimulators send signals to the brain when an individual experiences pain which allows that individual to control when signals are sent. Dr. Serruya used the example of opioids as pain treatment, where the individual using can take opiates whenever they experience pain. However, there comes a time, he says, where they will have to increase the amount they take since the amount they currently take is no longer effective. This, he says, begs the question whether spinal cord stimulators might have the same issue. In general, the entirety of the seminar was focused on many developments being made in the field of neurotechnology. Dr. Serruya emphasized how versatile this research is and how there was so much being done to help those dealing with different nervous system disorders. Throughout the presentation, it was amazing to see the interest of the viewers, but also the deep fascination and excitement of Dr. Serruya, an expert in the field.

Photo taken by Caedyn Lipovsky during the Neuroscience Seminar where Dr. Serruya discusses neurotechnology and different methodologies used in the field.

BRAIN HEALTH SERIES SLEEP DIET HYDRATION

BLOOD PRESSURE

HEALTH

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

MENTAL STIMULATION STRESS

SOCIALIZING MINDFULNESS

Brain

health is vital to us all, and while many of these methods are often recommended, have you ever wondered why? In this article you will discover practical insights and effective strategies for maintaining a healthy mind, from cognitive exercises to mindfulness practices.

Physical Activity

Physical activity is an essential component for maintaining optimal brain health. Exercise enhances neuroplasticity, which is crucial for learning and memory, and positively influences cerebral blood flow, ensuring optimal neural functioning. Moreover, physical activity stimulates neurotrophic factors like BDNF, contributing to neuron growth and survival. Neurotrophic factors are shown to alleviate neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.1 Beyond these physiological effects, regular exercise reduces stress and improves mood. Getting sufficient physical activity is a fundamental strategy for maintaining cognitive function, supporting neuroplasticity, and mitigating the impact of neurodegenerative conditions on the brain.

Diet

A diet consisting of fruit, vegetables, fish, and nuts has been shown to improve brain health. Including omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids from sources like fish, specifically docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid, has been associated with attenuated cognitive decline.3 Polyphenols, found in fruits and vegetables, contribute to vascular function, reducing inflammation and combating oxidative stress.3 While individual components of a healthy diet show promise, a holistic dietary approach in combating neurodegenerative diseases is the most effective.

Hydration

Water accounts for 75% of our brain mass, thus hydration is an essential aspect of our cognitive functioning. It has been found that dehydration impairs short-term memory, attention, and working memory. Studies on rehydration have shown that once a person is rehydrated, their cognitive function and mood drastically imrpoves.4 This amplifies the importance of incorporating proper hydration practices into daily routines for the overall well-being of the mind and body.

Obtaining Sufficient Sleep

We are all familiar with that dreadful feeling of sleep deprivation, chugging caffeine and counting the minutes till you can take a nap. However, this is not a conscious feeling; it takes a toll on your brain’s vitality. Sleep is a necessary process for regenerating and restoring various physiological functions and has been proven to improve memory recall, regulate metabolism, and reduce mental fatigue.2 Deep sleep is an essential component for neuronal regeneration; without this stage of sleep, the neurons malfunction. This is why we often have trouble concentrating when sleep-deprived. While sleeping, the

(cont. on right)

Practicing Mindfullness

Mindfulness practices have been extensively studied using neuroimaging techniques, revealing the intricate neural mechanisms associated with brain health. The dorsal medial prefrontal cortex and anterior cingulate cortex are activated during mindfulness meditation.7 These structures are essential for error, processing, conflict monitoring, and cognitive control.8 Mindfulness practices influence psychological and neural processes, enhancing attentional capacity, body awareness, and cognitive control.

brain begins a cleaning process to remove cellular trash called the glymphatic system.2 If this system is blocked, it can lead to neuroinflammation and neurological diseases. Sleep is not just a passive state but a dynamic process essential for the brain’s regeneration, cognitive function, and overall well-being.

Managing stress

Chronic stress has been linked to negative alterations in cognitive and social functioning. Environmental cues, under-stimulating surroundings, and social exclusion can collectively contribute to aberrant dopamine and glutamate transmission and dysregulation in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis,5 located below the hypothalamus in the ventral

brain. Chronic stress has also been shown to increase the possibility of depression and addiction in individuals. Taking that extra break and going on a walk is essential to keep your brain performing at its best.

Mental Stimulation

Longitudinal neuroimaging studies shed light on how mental stimulation improves cognitive functioning. Research involving medical students and juggling training demonstrated increased volume in the hippocampus and neocortex, emphasizing the structural adaptations associated with cognitive challenges.6 Meaning that, with enough mentally stimulating activity, an individual is less likely to develop cognitive

cont. on pp.16

Improving Blood Pressure

Blood flow is what nourishes the brain; the brain receives 20% of the body’s blood supply, which provides essential nutrients and oxygen that are necessary for functioning. Uncontrolled high blood pressure over time can lead to scarring and narrowing of blood vessels, impeding blood flow to the brain and causing various pathologies like strokes, white and gray matter shrinkage, and microinfarcts. High blood pressure is recognized as a risk factor for cognitive decline, with studies suggesting a 9 percent increase in the risk of poor cognitive function for every 10-mmHg increase in systolic blood pressure.10 Blood pressure can be regulated through a healthy diet, moderate and consistent physical activity, and getting enough sleep.

Socializing

Research indicates a pivotal role for social engagement in maintaining brain health. Studies show that greater social engagement, including contact with family and friends and participation in social activities, is associated with a reduced risk of cognitive decline over various periods.9 Leisure activities with social, intellectual, or physical components demonstrate positive aspects of maintaining brain health. Occupational engagement in complex, cognitively demanding jobs or roles with high interpersonal demands similarly shows positive cognitive outcomes when preserving brain health.

HOPE BASSETT

Illustrations by Alin Perianez

Excess items you don’t want to bring to your new place off-campus? Email moveout@temple.edu for a FREE pickup of your unwanted furniture!

ARC and PPHA are hiring PAID POSITIONS for peer advisors! Go to Temple Honors website for more information!

Nu Rho Psi is having a trivia night on March 20th! Register with the QR code or in @tu_ nurhopsi’s bio on Instagram to RSVP!

events on campus

BRAIN-DERIVED NEUROTROPIC FACTOR (BDNF)

and its impact on exercise and neurodegenerative disorders

Amidst the whirlwind of college life, one often overlooked secret to a successful future lies in the simplicity of moderate movement. Many college students feel that there are not enough hours in the day to achieve all that they need and want to do, which often leaves them with no energy left for exercise. Here’s the bad news: without carving out time for exercise, all the energy students put into shaping their professional future will leave them worse off physically and mentally. Researchers have found that moderate exercise is a preventative, non pharmacological method against neurodegenerative disorders.

Specifically, researchers Beatriz Ospina and Natalia Cadavid-Ruiz in Colombia studied the effect of aerobic exercise on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BNDF) and cognitive function in college students.1 Brain-derived neurotrophic factor is a neurotrophin essential for neuronal development, synaptic plasticity, and cognitive functions. Low levels of BDNF are connected to difficulty in learning, a higher risk of depression, and an increased risk of Alzheimer’s.1 However, when exercising, blood flow increases, releasing BDNF in the nervous system, which stimulates neurogenesis. The study involved 62 participants, of whom 30 were male and 32 were female, with the average age being 20.2

“The researchers acknowledged that while high levels of BDNF do improve cognitive function, they highlighted the critical role of a specific threshold of exertion.”

years old. The participants were administered the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) to determine their physical activity levels and were divided into three groups: student athletes, students engaged in regular physical activity, and sedentary students. Before the actual exercise test, participants underwent a cardiorespiratory fitness test, and their serum BDNF levels were tested using ELISA. The exercise test consisted of a 30-minute circuit of nine functional exercises such as push-ups, jump rope, jump squats, etc. Participants were told to exert maximum effort and to be monitored for intensity and exertion.2 Afterward, participants were asked to complete the Victoria Stroop Test to evaluate inhibitory control. All three groups’ BDNF levels increased, but they found that the student athletes had the highest increase out of the three groups, which is attributed to their BDNF sensi tivity due to frequent physical activity. While the results found no significant effect on executive function, BDNF levels signifi cantly increased throughout all three groups. In the discussion section of the research article, the researchers acknowledged that while high levels of BDNF do improve cognitive function, they highlighted the critical role of a specific threshold of exertion. Be yond this threshold, the release of certain proteins triggers the direct delivery of BDNF to cortical areas

essential for cognitive function.

Exercise plays a crucial role in memory enhancement through several neurobiological mechanisms. Memory improvement induced by exercise operates through both direct and indirect pathways, which can influence structure, circulation, and signaling. During exercise, the skeletal muscle contractions release lactate, which will cross the bloodbrain barrier and induce the expression of brain-derived

out one’s lifespan. Neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), pose significant challenges to public health in America. With approximately 6.2 million Americans aged 65 and older affected by Alzheimer’s disease alone and projections

neurotrophic factor in the brain. Elevated levels of BDNF promote synaptic regeneration, long-term potentiation, and memory enhancement.3

Scientists are still trying to figure out the exact parameters of exercise for the most optimal cognitive benefits, but regular, moderate exercise is associated with enhanced neurocognitive performance. Establishing and maintaining optimal brain health during youth is crucial, as it forms the cornerstone for lifelong cognitive function,

estimating a nearly tripled prevalence

to 13.8 million by 20604 if

no advancements are made in treatment or prevention, the urgency of addressing these conditions is clear. (Hollander, 2022) While it’s important to note that there is currently no known cure for these debilitating diseases, there are preventative measures you can take to lower your risk. As stated earlier, consistent high-to-moderate exercise is one of the best ways to ensure better physical and mental health for yourself now and in the future. As we navigate the complexities of academic pursuits and personal growth, the significance of integrating physical activity into our daily routines becomes increasingly apparent. The research conducted by Beatriz Ospina and Natalia Cadavid-Ruiz serves as a source of insight into the transformative potential of aerobic exercise in augment-

“While a cure for these debilitating diseases remains elusive, embracing a lifestyle centered around consistent exercise offers a tangible pathway towards strengthening both physical and mental well-being, thereby setting us on a path to a healthier future for people of all ages.”

ing the growth of new brain cells and strengthens connections between them, which is important for thinking and learning. However, as we stand on the precipice of discovery, the quest for finding the optimal parameters of exercise remains an ongoing effort. Future research aims to uncover the details of exercise routines and timing that help BDNF reach brain areas important for thinking in young adults. Exploring this further could lead to new insights and personalized approaches to improve brain function. As we confront the looming public health challenges posed by neurodegenerative disorders such

as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and ALS, the importance of prioritizing brain health from a young age becomes ever more pronounced. With projections forewarning a surge in the prevalence of these conditions in the coming decades, the urgency of preventative measures cannot be overstated. While a cure for these debilitating diseases remains elusive, embracing a lifestyle centered around consistent exercise offers a tangible pathway towards strengthening both physical and mental well-being, thereby setting us on a path to a healthier future for people of all ages.

NEAVA ZAYAS

PROFESSOR PROFESSOR SPOTLIGHT SPOTLIGHT

David V. Smith, PhD

In the expansive realm of neuroscience, Dr. David Smith has devoted years to teaching and even more to research concerned with understanding decision-making and reward processes. Dr. Smith curated a unique approach to navigating uncertainty, evolving from his formative years as an undergraduate student at the University of South Carolina to his current position at Temple University. Throughout his journey, Dr. Smith has deliberately chosen a trajectory defined by a commitment to questioning, a profound passion for the field, and an unwavering adaptability to the ever-evolving field of neuroscience.

venturing into venturing into neuroscience neuroscience

Dr. Smith's journey into neuroscience began during his undergraduate years at the University of South Carolina where he was initially studying psychology. While taking a statistics course, Smith developed a more objective perspective and was presented with a research opportunity that started it all. The research involved brain wave studies concerning ADHD and although he did not stick with this it widened his approach and allowed for him to venture into decision-making.

After graduating from USC, Smith began his PhD program at Duke University in which he initially went to study spatial awareness. Upon graduating in 2012, Smith found his way to Temple University where he fell in love with the city of Philadelphia and the rich academic environment. As a first-generation college student, Smith felt a connection with the diverse community of undergraduate students at Temple.

decisiondecisionmaking and making and reward reward processing processing research research

a d h d

Smith's passion for decision-making and reward processing occurred without prearrangement during his time as a graduate student. Smith enrolled in a lab rotation where students were encouraged to experiment with their passions, it was then that Smith found an endless amount of questions that had to be answered. “I think that's the cool thing with research honestly; you're kind of following the questions”.

Over the past 15 years, Smith has primarily focused on decision-making and reward processing. His current project delves into understanding how the brain processes with regard to the reward system specifically for individuals who are at risk for financial exploitation.

teaching: teaching: cultivating minds cultivating minds

Smith’s passion for teaching is evident in his commitment to multiple classes including advanced statistics, fMRI methods, and decision neuroscience. Smith's teaching approach allows for students to engage their minds and develop their critical thinking skills through an engaging and interactive environment.

In the future, Smith envisions teaching a capstone course on noninvasive brain stimulation.

fueling the future fueling the future

Students can relate to the difficulty that is the balancing act of life. To ensure ease for both himself and his students Smith has an open-door policy, he allows students access to his schedule and they can schedule a time to meet based on both of their availability.

With a two-year-old at home Smith tends to take planning on a week-by-week basis, sanctioning himself enough time for teaching, research deadlines, and family time. Outside of academia, Smith enjoys spending time with his family and partaking in the simple joy of his son’s happiness.

When asked how he would encourage students on the fence of neuroscience he replied, “I might ask them a question; If they could be doing anything else in their life other than neuroscience what could they be doing? Why aren't they?”. Smith emphasizes commitment and curiosity while acknowledging the deterrents students may have regarding their weaknesses, “Nobody is good at everything, everyone is trying to get better.”

Smith also accentuated the value of adapting to challenges. The answers students receive while in the research field may never be clear-cut but it’s important to have the skills to overcome these hardships. Smith has been in the field for a long time with many years to proceed. Looking towards the future, Smith will remain committed to following uncertainty, adapting to challenges, and inspiring the future generation of neuroscientists.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

WHY TEMPLE?

I chose Temple for the city school atmosphere, the research culture (equating to easy access to undergraduates), and the many academic resources available to all Temple students. Temple was also one of a few schools that offered Neuro science, and two versions at that!

I’m from

JACK PUDWILL

Why ? What’s your biggest topic of interest within the field?

I chose to study neuroscience to apply my knowledge and enjoy- ment of biology but also to learn something new. I also was really drawn to the idea of a field with relatively limited knowledge and a general curiosity with the organ that can control so many homeostatic processes, but also allows learning, cognition, and conscious. With very limited knowledge at the time, I had no idea and was amazed by the idea of how something seemingly simple structurally could control such complex processes. Over- time, as I have learned more the connections of micro and mac- ro level understanding of many of the basics has been very sat- isfying, yet also awe increasing.

If I had to choose, I would currently say my biggest Neuroscience topic of in terest would be related to cancer biology, and under standing cancer metasta sis, but also primary brain tumors. How do they dif fer from other cancers, and could the environ ment of the brain create unique challenges or pos sibilities for therapeutics?

What is your best memory of being a Temple student?

Best memory/past time of Temple would have to be either Temple basketball/football games, or just meeting up with friends and destressing on Beury beach!

Are you involved in research?

on campus probably would have to be any of the halal carts, or Tai’s Vietnamese for their Redbull Lemon

What have you found to be the best strategies for succeeding in science courses?

For me I’ve seen the best results in altering time management techniques to fit into my current course load and schedule. I think almost no two semesters will look the same and have constantly found myself trying to find ways to adapt. This also has meant al- tering studying strategies. While freshman year I may have been able to practically memorize a whole biology textbook and study for 40 hours for one exam, that quickly changed. Therefore, I have focused on applying content/ac- tively studying as often as possible.

Do you have any habits focused on brain health? (Relieving stress, stay ing focused, feeling fulfilled, etc) Are there any new ones you’d like to implement down the line?

I am a very big hater of all-nighters, all though I have come practically close to them in the past I refuse to stay up and not at least get 4 hours of sleep. This is person dependent but even at that I know I am only functioning half as well as normal.

I also do my best to eat as healthy as possible, which to me is just balance and limiting processed/pre-packaged food. I also try to stick to a routine as much as possible because that seems to help me with stress control and completing necessary tasks.

Lastly, I would love to work on becoming less dependent on my phone, I have deleted most social media formats, but all is not practical as a student at least not in my opinion.