In Fragile Brains Kathleen Taylor looks at the genetic and lifestyle factors currently linked to the development of dementia, focusing on important new research on how the immune system operates in the brain.

Neurodegenerative diseases, such as a stroke, Alzheimer's and dementia, are now tragically commonplace within the western world. Our brains are a strange and complex organ, and there is much to be discovered about what causes them to fail in such devastating ways. In this book Kathleen Taylor presents the ever-developing research into the cause and cure of these life-changing conditions, focusing on insights arising from the relatively new field of neuroimmunology - the increasing recognition of the important role of the immune system in the brain. Interweaving the latest scientific ideas on neurodegenerative diseases with accounts of the devastation which illnesses affecting the brain can cause to sufferers and to anyone who cares about them, The Fragile Brain is not only an important account of current research in this field, but a very personal study. As instances of dementia rise in our ageing populations, many harbour anxieties concerning the future.This book is about knowing the enemy.

Brain disease such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s affect an estimated one in six Americans and are increasing in incidence as the population ages. In this eBook, Fragile Brain: Neurodegenerative Diseases, we examine these and other conditions involving the damage and loss of neurons, including other forms of dementia, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) and multiple sclerosis (MS). In “The Seeds of Dementia,” the authors discuss evidence of prions and protein misfolding as a universal culprit in Alzheimer’s and other conditions. Later, two articles by Gary Stix report on ongoing research into a cluster of Columbian families that experience early onset symptoms of Alzheimer’s. Researchers studying the genes and progression of disease in these families hope that results will reveal clues about its course and possible future remedies. In “New Movement in Parkinson’s,” the authors outline abnormal cell behavior and genetic mutations that may be behind the disease. In the study of ALS, Amy Yee examines research into why eye muscles tend to last longer than other motor neurons and what this may mean for treatment. Other pieces look at new lines of inquiry in MS, including why researchers are turning to gray matter, as opposed to white matter, as the starting point for the disease. We wrap up this collection with current preventative measures and treatments that target not only disease pathology, but also lifestyle changes as well. In “A Rare Success against Alzheimer’s,” the results of a large-scale Finnish study provide evidence that choices such as diet and exercise can help prevent cognitive decline. Although this news is far from a cure, forward movement against Alzheimer’s – and neurodegenerative disease in general – is reason for optimism. As research and evidence accumulates, we get ever closer to curative therapies that can halt the debilitation and death of neurons.

Race has always been an emotional and contentious subject in America. Too often, the focus has been on one extreme or the other. Dr. Conrad provides a refreshing perspective that goes beyond news program sound bites and newspaper headlines to tackle some difficult questions, such as: Why do some people born into difficult circumstances succeed in life where others fail? What are the causes of urban violence in America? What does emotional intelligence have to do with understanding and appreciating diversity? What are the most common problems with diversity initiatives in many organizations? Dr. Conrad explores these questions based on what science tells us about our brains-their tremendous potential, and their fragility. The Fragile Mind is a valuable resource for you if you are: . A business leader or supervisor seeking to maximize the talents of your employees . An elected official or government representative seeking to understand the unique needs of your constituency . A school administrator or teacher seeking to prepare tomorrow's leaders . A non-profit leader or community worker seeking to provide the appropriate help for people in need

In The Fragile Mind, Dr. Conrad not only provides insight into what daily life is like for African Americans and individuals who are poor, he offers as innovative approach to overcoming these challenges based on what scientists have uncovered about the human brain - its brilliance, as well as its fragility. He demonstrates how conscious and subconscious actions taken by Whites have maintained their social, political, and economic dominance, while conscious and subconscious actions taken by African Americans and poor people have contributed to the perpetuation of their subordinate status in America.