Neuroplasticity

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The Power of Small Habits to Transform Your Life | Sophia Cheung | TEDxDiscovery College Youth
TEDx Talks· 2025-07-17 16:09
Core Idea - Small, consistent habits can lead to significant life changes [1][2][8] - Focus on building habits that are simple and easy to maintain daily [2][4] - Emphasize the importance of patience and gradual progress in habit formation [5] Practical Application - Start with tiny habits, such as making your bed or reading one page daily [4] - Build upon initial successes by gradually increasing the intensity or duration of the habit [5] - Be patient and persistent, acknowledging that progress takes time and consistency [5] Psychological Impact - Building small habits can increase confidence and motivation [7][8] - Neuroplasticity explains how repeated actions create stronger neural pathways, making habits automatic [6][7] - Noticing positive changes resulting from small habits can further motivate continued effort [5]
How rhythm and dance can help the brain | Siya Marwah | TEDxBath University
TEDx Talks· 2025-07-01 15:00
Core Argument - The speech advocates for incorporating rhythm, specifically Indian classical music's "tal," as a form of brain exercise to improve cognitive functions, mental agility, and mental fitness [1][10] - The speech positions rhythm as a universal tool for managing stress, enhancing mental sharpness, and promoting overall well-being [20][21][22] Cognitive Benefits of Rhythm - Mental exercises like mindfulness and rhythmic activities such as "tal" can build focus, emotional resilience, and cognitive flexibility, strengthening the brain [3][18] - Practicing "tal" engages multiple brain areas, including the prefrontal cortex (problem-solving), motor areas, and cerebellum (balance and coordination), promoting neuroplasticity [18] - Rhythm can serve as a daily mental workout, similar to puzzles or memory games, but potentially more powerful [21] Rhythm in Clinical Interventions - Rhythm can be used in clinical interventions to manage conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) by restructuring neural pathways [13][15] - Techniques like drumming, tapping, and guided movement, as well as Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), can help manage stress and anxiety [15][16][17] Cultural Significance of Rhythm - Rhythm is integral to various cultures, seen in Indian classical music and dance, Latin American salsa, East Asian Buddhist chants, and Western jazz, highlighting its universal presence [11][12] - "Tal" is not just a musical construct but a way of understanding and expressing life, originating in temples and structuring rituals, dance, and chants [11]
You Are What You Think | Thomas Kuchenbrod | TEDxHarmony Science Academy Dallas High
TEDx Talks· 2025-06-25 15:20
Core Argument - Change, whether physical or mental, originates in the mind, emphasizing the power of thoughts to influence outcomes [2][3] - The principle of cause and effect applies universally, including to thoughts, where inputs (thoughts) create outputs (results) [14][15][16] - Individuals are not defined by their past experiences or trauma but by their thoughts, urging proactive and intentional thinking [18][19] Neurological Basis of Thought - Repeated thoughts strengthen neural connections, making those thoughts easier and more automatic over time [5][6] - The brain is neuroplastic, meaning new neural pathways can be created intentionally through repetition and conscious effort [7][8] Sources of Negative Thought Patterns - Negative thought patterns often stem from personal experiences, which can be limiting if not properly contextualized [9][10][11] - Poor education, from various sources, can instill limiting beliefs disguised as truth, which individuals internalize and rationalize [12][13] Actionable Strategies - Question every mental seed before it takes root, exercising the power to challenge and reframe limiting beliefs [13] - Fiercely protect your inputs by guarding what you watch, hear, and who you associate with, to create desired outcomes [17]
The Neuroscience Behind Unlocking Your Brain’s Superpowers | Ana Araujo | TEDxPraça Gil Eanes
TEDx Talks· 2025-06-23 16:41
Core Message - The speech emphasizes the potential within individuals to activate their "superpowers" through mindset and personal development [1][10] - It advocates for resilience, continuous learning, and conscious living to unlock human potential [3][31] Activating "Superpowers" - Neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to adapt and evolve, can be activated by experiencing new things, learning new skills, and breaking from routine [12][13][15][17] - Imagination is a powerful tool, as the brain doesn't differentiate between reality and imagination, enabling individuals to create their desired future [20][23] - Mirror neurons influence interpersonal interactions, suggesting that projecting positivity can transform environments and relationships [26][27] Personal Development & Resilience - The speaker shares a personal story of overcoming adversity, highlighting the importance of resilience and maintaining a positive mindset [2][7][9] - The speech encourages listeners to choose happiness and strive for the best in life, impacting both themselves and those around them [30][31]
Positive PoNSTEP Study Results Presented at Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers Annual Meeting
Globenewswire· 2025-06-12 11:00
Core Insights - The PoNS Therapeutic Experience Program (PoNSTEP) study demonstrates long-term benefits of PoNS Therapy for gait deficits in individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) [1][2] - The study results were presented at the 2025 Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers (CMSC) Annual Meeting, highlighting the importance of treatment adherence for achieving clinically meaningful improvements [2][3] Study Details - The PoNSTEP study is an open-label, observational, interventional multi-center research study assessing adherence to PoNS Therapy for gait deficits in MS patients [5] - The study involved 43 MS participants and was conducted at six Centers of Excellence across the United States [5] - The primary endpoint is the maintenance of gait improvement from the end of supervised therapy to the end of unsupervised therapy, with secondary endpoints including maintenance of improvement over six months [5] Treatment and Mechanism - PoNS Therapy combines the Portable Neuromodulation Stimulator (PoNS) device with physical therapy, applied for 100-120 minutes per day [5][7] - The PoNS device delivers mild electrical impulses to the tongue and is indicated for short-term treatment of gait deficits due to mild-to-moderate MS symptoms [7][8] Clinical Impact and Recognition - The study provides the first clinical trial evidence of PoNS Therapy's long-term benefits for functional rehabilitation in the MS population [3] - There is growing recognition of PoNS Therapy's direct effect on the central nervous system and its targeted mechanism of action compared to other interventions [3] Reimbursement and Access - Helius Medical Technologies has successfully obtained initial reimbursement from federal and private payers, which is expected to lower barriers to prescribing PoNS Therapy [4] - The company is actively engaging with health insurance providers to expand access to PoNS Therapy for all individuals with MS [3][4]
BetterLife Pharma Provides Scientific Update on Neuroplastogenic Activity of BETR-001
Globenewswire· 2025-05-28 12:00
Core Insights - BetterLife Pharma Inc. is focused on developing BETR-001, a non-hallucinogenic neuroplastogen aimed at treating psychiatric and neurological disorders [1][8] - BETR-001 has shown significant potential in promoting neuroplasticity, which is crucial for brain rewiring and forming new neuronal connections [2][4] - The company has received a composition of matter patent for BETR-001 and is preparing for IND filing and human trials projected for H1 2026 [7][9] Group 1: Scientific Developments - BETR-001 has been demonstrated to significantly induce the formation of new dendrites and spines in cultured rat brain cortical neurons, outperforming ketamine in these aspects [2][3] - The drug's neuroplasticity data suggests its effectiveness in treating various conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, traumatic brain injury, migraines, and neuropathic pain [4][9] Group 2: Regulatory and Development Status - BetterLife has completed most of the required IND-enabling studies and has had a pre-IND meeting with the FDA [7] - The company is also developing BETR-002, which targets anxiety-related disorders, and is exploring strategic alternatives for other drug candidates [10]
Helius to Spotlight Study Confirming Improved Long-Term Outcomes from Adherence to PoNS Therapy® at CMSC Annual Meeting
Globenewswire· 2025-05-20 11:00
Core Insights - Helius Medical Technologies, Inc. will present the final results of the PoNSTEP study, which confirms the efficacy of the Portable Neuromodulation Stimulator (PoNS) device for improving gait in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) [1][2] - The study highlights a statistically significant relationship between adherence to PoNS therapy and improvement in gait, indicating that consistent use leads to sustained benefits [3][4] Study Overview - The PoNSTEP study was a three-phase, real-world therapeutic experience designed to evaluate the impact of adherence on gait deficits and long-term outcomes in MS patients [3][8] - Participants underwent two weeks of supervised therapy, followed by 12 weeks of combined clinic and at-home use, concluding with a six-month follow-up to assess the durability of improvements [3][9] Key Findings - Stronger adherence to PoNS therapy resulted in better therapeutic outcomes, with highly adherent participants achieving over 6 points improvement in their Dynamic Gait Index (DGI) scores during the first 14 weeks [4][5] - More than 95% of participants maintained their level of improvement six months post-treatment, demonstrating the durability of the therapy's effects [5][7] Clinical Implications - The study provides evidence of the effectiveness of neuromodulation and neuroplasticity in rehabilitating gait deficits in MS patients, marking a significant advancement in treatment options for this population [7][10] - PoNS therapy is now accessible through insurance via the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense, with some commercial healthcare providers beginning to reimburse the device [7][12] About PoNS Device - The Portable Neuromodulation Stimulator (PoNS) is a non-implantable device that delivers neurostimulation through a mouthpiece, used in conjunction with physical rehabilitation exercises to improve balance and gait in MS patients [12][14] - The device is indicated for short-term treatment of gait deficits due to mild-to-moderate MS symptoms and is prescribed for patients aged 22 and older [12][13]
NRX Pharmaceuticals(NRXP) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-05-15 21:32
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q1 2025, the company reported a net loss of $5.5 million, an improvement from a net loss of $6.5 million in Q1 2024 [37] - Loss from operations decreased to $3.8 million from $6 million in the same quarter last year [37] - Research and development expenses were $800,000, down from $1.7 million in Q1 2024, while general and administrative expenses decreased to $2.9 million from $4.3 million [37][38] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - NRx has advanced its lead candidates, NRx 100 and NRx 101, in the regulatory process with the US FDA, aiming for revenue generation in the near term [6][10] - The company has established a network of clinics under Hope Therapeutics, which is expected to be revenue-generating and profitable soon [10][34] - The company anticipates clinic revenue well before the end of the year, with a focus on non-dilutive financing for clinic acquisitions [7][17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The market for NRx 100, an intravenous preservative-free ketamine for treating suicidal depression, is projected to be significant, with potential sales reaching billions [27][26] - The company expects the market for NRx 101, targeting bipolar depression with suicidality or akathisia, to exceed $2 billion initially and potentially over $5 billion broadly [33][28] Company Strategy and Development Direction - NRx aims to address the national epidemic of suicidality, depression, and PTSD through innovative medicines and direct patient care via Hope Therapeutics [6][10] - The company plans to establish a national network of interventional psychiatry clinics, combining neuroplastic treatments and protocols [33][34] - NRx is focused on gaining FDA approval for its products to expand patient access and improve treatment options for mental health conditions [26][39] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted the increased focus from the US government on treating suicidal depression and PTSD, particularly in military and veteran communities [9] - The company is optimistic about its path to revenue generation and profitability by the end of 2025, supported by ongoing financing discussions and partnerships [38][36] - Management expressed confidence in the potential for NRx 100 and NRx 101 to provide life-saving treatments and significant market opportunities [27][39] Other Important Information - NRx has filed a patent for its novel preservative-free formulation of NRx 100, potentially protecting the product until 2045 [11][23] - The company has manufacturing capacity to supply over 1 million doses of ketamine per month upon FDA approval [11][22] - NRx is navigating the complexities of acquiring medical treatment facilities under state regulations as part of its growth strategy [16][34] Q&A Session Summary Question: What does the recent IP buy you if approved? - Management indicated that the strength of the patent application is believed to be strong, potentially providing market exclusivity for an extended period if the preservative-free ketamine is approved [41][42] Question: Consideration for NRx 100 going international? - Management confirmed intentions to make NRx 100 available internationally, noting that European countries are more sensitive to toxic substances, which could enhance market potential [47]
Nexalin Technology Reconstitutes Scientific Advisory Board with Leading Experts to Advance Alzheimer's Program Amid Encouraging Data
GlobeNewswire News Room· 2025-05-13 12:30
Core Insights - Nexalin Technology, Inc. has reconstituted its Scientific Advisory Board (SAB) to enhance its focus on Alzheimer's disease, reflecting a strategic prioritization within its clinical development pipeline [1][3] - The newly appointed members of the SAB include Dr. Mingxiong Huang, Dr. David Owens, and Dr. Abe Scheer, who bring extensive expertise in neurology and neuroimaging [2][3] - The company plans to initiate new Alzheimer's-focused clinical studies in Q3 2025, incorporating cognitive testing and imaging biomarkers to assess treatment efficacy [11][12] Company Developments - The restructuring of the SAB aims to provide scientific and clinical oversight for Nexalin's initiatives in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders [2][3] - Nexalin's proprietary Deep Intracranial Frequency Stimulation (DIFS™) technology is designed to penetrate deep brain structures associated with cognitive decline and mental illness [3][12] - The company emphasizes the potential of DIFS™ to promote neuroplasticity and functional recovery, particularly in memory and executive function areas [3][12] Advisory Board Expertise - Dr. Mingxiong Huang specializes in magnetoencephalography (MEG) and neuroimaging, with over 25 years of experience in advanced imaging techniques for neurological disorders [4][5] - Dr. Abe Scheer has over four decades of experience in neurology and psychiatry, and has previously served on Nexalin's SAB [6][7] - Dr. David Owens, the Chief Medical Officer, is a board-certified neuroradiologist with expertise in advanced imaging techniques and clinical research on transcranial stimulation therapies [8][10] Future Directions - The SAB will guide the scientific direction and clinical strategy for Nexalin's Alzheimer's initiatives, ensuring adherence to regulatory standards and scientific rigor [11][12] - The company aims to leverage the combined expertise of the SAB members to advance its technology through clinical trials addressing Alzheimer's disease [3][11]
Helius Medical Technologies, Inc. Announces Reimbursement by Major Healthcare Provider for its Portable Neuromodulation Stimulator (PoNS®) Device
Globenewswire· 2025-05-12 11:00
Core Insights - Helius Medical Technologies has received reimbursement approval for the PoNS Device from United Healthcare, marking it as the second major healthcare provider to do so after Anthem [1][2] - The approved reimbursement amount totals $18,100, which reflects the out-of-network adjusted list price [2] Company Overview - Helius Medical Technologies is a neurotech company focused on addressing neurologic deficits through its Portable Neuromodulation Stimulator (PoNS) [3] - The PoNS device is designed to improve balance and gait deficits, particularly in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) [4] Product Details - The PoNS Device is a non-implantable therapy that delivers neurostimulation via a mouthpiece, intended for use alongside physical rehabilitation exercises [4] - It is indicated for short-term treatment of gait deficits due to mild-to-moderate MS symptoms and is prescribed for patients aged 22 and older [4] Clinical Validation - The PoNS Device has demonstrated effectiveness in treating gait and balance issues, significantly reducing fall risks in stroke patients in Canada [5] - It has received authorization for multiple indications in Canada and is also approved for use in Australia [5]