#MS and Immune System

[quatregats]

Being constantly reminded in the class I'm TAing for this semester of my 7th grade history teacher who decided to spend the year teaching us about the history of Haiti, South Africa, China, and Chile - by which I mean basically the contents of The Black Jacobins, anti-Apartheid activists (I remember that we watched the biopic of Stephen Biko), the Cultural Revolution, and the coup against Salvador Allende and the repression under Pinochet's government - at a school which was about 70% Black, less than 10% white, and solidly 80-90% immigrant kids. Also she was a lesbian and I know this because she mentioned her wife once or twice. Literally who was doing it like her

[svensklangblr]

gosh, felt sick a couple of days ago and stayed at home to get better. was fully recovered yesterday and went to the gym etc. lived my life like normal. woke up today with a sore throat and a runny nose and just overall do not feel great.

[diamondnokouzai]

i think what annoys me about Evil Rofan Backstory Families is that the evil abuse is never examined in the story. like the family is just comically evil to a child for a few years and then gets completely destroyed. i just wish the child abuse were diagetic i guess.

[blueoaknx]

The Connection Between Damaged Mitochondria and Arthritis

Mitochondria are integral organelles responsible for various critical cellular functions, primarily energy production through oxidative phosphorylation. They are involved in maintaining cellular homeostasis, regulating metabolism, modulating calcium levels, and controlling apoptosis. Emerging evidence has highlighted mitochondrial dysfunction as a key contributor to a variety of diseases, including arthritis. This formal overview aims to explore the complex relationship between damaged mitochondria and arthritis, focusing on the molecular mechanisms that link mitochondrial dysfunction to the pathogenesis of inflammatory joint diseases, particularly rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA).

Mitochondrial Structure and Function

Mitochondria are double-membraned organelles found in eukaryotic cells, and they are crucial for cellular energy metabolism. Their primary role is the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) via oxidative phosphorylation, a process that takes place in the inner mitochondrial membrane. During this process, the electron transport chain (ETC) generates a proton gradient across the inner membrane, which drives ATP synthesis through ATP synthase. However, this process also generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) as byproducts, primarily from complexes I and III of the ETC. Under normal physiological conditions, ROS are neutralized by antioxidants, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione. However, under pathological conditions, excessive ROS production can lead to oxidative stress, contributing to cellular damage and dysfunction.

In addition to ATP production, mitochondria have essential roles in calcium buffering, apoptosis regulation, and the maintenance of cellular integrity. Damage to these organelles disrupts these functions, contributing to various diseases, including arthritis.

Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Arthritis

Arthritis is a group of diseases characterized by inflammation and degeneration of the joints. It includes conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune disease, and osteoarthritis (OA), a degenerative disease. In both types of arthritis, mitochondrial dysfunction has been identified as a critical factor that exacerbates disease progression through several mechanisms, including increased oxidative stress, immune activation, and tissue damage.

1. Oxidative Stress and Mitochondrial Damage

Oxidative stress is a hallmark of both RA and OA, and mitochondria are central to its production. In these conditions, mitochondrial dysfunction results in an increase in ROS production, overwhelming the cell’s antioxidant defenses. This oxidative stress leads to the modification of cellular structures, including proteins, lipids, and DNA, causing further mitochondrial damage. In RA, pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 (IL-1), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) stimulate immune cells like macrophages and neutrophils to release large amounts of ROS. These ROS contribute to the local inflammatory environment and accelerate joint destruction by damaging mitochondria and amplifying oxidative stress.

Mitochondrial damage results in a feedback loop where impaired mitochondrial function generates more ROS, further promoting inflammation. For instance, in RA, markers of oxidative damage such as 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and malondialdehyde (MDA) have been found to correlate with disease activity, suggesting a direct relationship between mitochondrial dysfunction and disease severity.

2. Mitochondrial DNA Damage and Inflammatory Signaling

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is particularly vulnerable to oxidative damage due to its proximity to the ETC, where ROS are produced during ATP synthesis. Unlike nuclear DNA, mtDNA is not protected by histones and has limited repair mechanisms, making it prone to mutations. Damage to mtDNA impairs mitochondrial function and can lead to the release of mtDNA fragments into the cytoplasm or extracellular space.

In the context of arthritis, mtDNA damage has been implicated in immune activation. When damaged mtDNA is released into the cytoplasm, it is recognized by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), such as toll-like receptors (TLRs), on immune cells. TLRs, particularly TLR9, activate downstream inflammatory signaling pathways that lead to the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6. This further exacerbates the inflammatory response in joints and contributes to the progression of arthritis. Studies have shown that the presence of mtDNA fragments in the serum of RA patients correlates with disease activity, indicating the role of mtDNA in driving inflammation.

3. Mitochondrial Dynamics and Arthritis Pathogenesis

Mitochondrial dynamics refer to the continuous processes of mitochondrial fission (division) and fusion (joining), which maintain mitochondrial function and integrity. Fission allows for the removal of damaged mitochondria, while fusion helps to integrate mitochondrial contents and maintain a healthy mitochondrial pool. Imbalance between fission and fusion is associated with several diseases, including arthritis.

In the case of RA, excessive mitochondrial fission and reduced fusion have been observed. This imbalance results in mitochondrial fragmentation, which impairs mitochondrial function, increases ROS production, and contributes to cellular stress. Fission is regulated by proteins such as dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1) and fission 1 protein (Fis1), while fusion is controlled by mitofusins (Mfn1 and Mfn2) and optic atrophy 1 (OPA1). Dysregulation of these proteins in RA leads to a fragmented mitochondrial network, which exacerbates oxidative stress and inflammation in synovial tissues.

4. Mitochondrial-Dependent Cell Death

Mitochondria are also central regulators of programmed cell death, particularly apoptosis. In the pathogenesis of arthritis, excessive or dysregulated apoptosis contributes to joint destruction. Mitochondrial dysfunction plays a critical role in the intrinsic apoptotic pathway by releasing pro-apoptotic factors such as cytochrome c and apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF). These factors activate caspase-dependent and caspase-independent pathways, leading to the death of synovial cells and cartilage cells, which contributes to the progressive tissue damage observed in both RA and OA.

Furthermore, mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening, which is induced by oxidative stress, can lead to necrosis, a form of uncontrolled cell death. Necrotic cell death in the joints increases inflammation and tissue degradation, particularly in OA, where cartilage breakdown is a hallmark feature.

Therapeutic Approaches Targeting Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Arthritis

Given the significant role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of arthritis, various therapeutic strategies aimed at improving mitochondrial function are under investigation.

1. Mitochondrial Antioxidants

Mitochondrial-targeted antioxidants, such as MitoQ and MitoTEMPO, have been developed to selectively accumulate in mitochondria, where they can neutralize ROS and reduce oxidative stress. These compounds have shown promise in preclinical models of arthritis, where they help to reduce inflammation, protect mitochondrial function, and limit joint damage. The use of mitochondrial antioxidants could be an effective strategy to mitigate oxidative stress in arthritic conditions.

2. Mitochondrial Biogenesis Enhancement

Another potential therapeutic approach is the activation of mitochondrial biogenesis, the process by which new mitochondria are formed to compensate for damaged mitochondria. Agents that activate peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α), a key regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis, could help restore mitochondrial function in arthritic tissues. Compounds such as resveratrol and NAD+ precursors are under investigation for their ability to promote mitochondrial biogenesis and improve cellular metabolism in arthritis.

3. Mitochondrial Dynamics Modulation

Restoring the balance between mitochondrial fission and fusion is another therapeutic strategy. Inhibiting excessive mitochondrial fission or promoting mitochondrial fusion may help maintain mitochondrial integrity and reduce inflammation in arthritis. Drugs targeting Drp1 or enhancing Mfn1/Mfn2 activity are potential candidates for modulating mitochondrial dynamics in arthritic diseases.

4. Mitophagy Enhancement

Mitophagy, the selective autophagic degradation of damaged mitochondria, is essential for maintaining mitochondrial quality. Enhancing mitophagy through the use of compounds like spermidine or activators of the PINK1/PARK2 pathway could help eliminate dysfunctional mitochondria and reduce inflammation, making it a promising therapeutic approach in arthritis.

Conclusion

Mitochondrial dysfunction plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of arthritis, contributing to oxidative stress, inflammation, and joint damage. The intricate relationship between damaged mitochondria and immune activation highlights the importance of targeting mitochondrial health in the treatment of arthritis. Emerging therapeutic strategies aimed at restoring mitochondrial function, reducing oxidative stress, and modulating mitochondrial dynamics hold promise for improving the management of arthritis and preventing joint destruction. Further research into mitochondrial biology and its role in arthritis is essential for the development of more effective, targeted therapies for these debilitating conditions.

[rusted-phone-calls]

have not had to survive 4 hours of sleep for a while

[inspiredrawaw]

A Fae’s Magic. My take on how magic works and headcannons

And here we are!! My take on how I imagine the fairies magic working as well as my interpretation of Peris physical disability headcannon. I went with MS due to me getting optic neuritis last year and doing a shit ton of research into MS just in case! And now I get to show that research here! text below

IMAGE 1: A Faes Magic.

a fae get their magic from the Big Wand that gets stored as its own unique "information" in the fae's nervous system. Magic helps a fae's nervous syetm send signals to their wings to move and function as well as enhance the other functions of their nervous syetm. Leading to faster wound healing and immortality, gives them a 6th sense to other magic beings, greater balance and coordination when they change forms, and enhancement to their memory, learning, and thoughts.

big wand magic go into brain, magic becomes signals, magic gets stored in nervous system

IMAGE 2:

now wands, everything must be done in moderation. A wand can help a fae have control over their magic, be more precise in casting magic, and for storing extra magic. Due to this a wand becomes an extension of a fae even to a point where a wand will float with their fae.

A fae will receive a rattle wand at birth due to their immature nervous systems causing large uncontrolled magic outbursts.

IMAGE 3:

As a fae gets older it becomes more difficult to expel that magic. It's easier to control but magic back up becomes a real problem. Similar to how a nervous system can be overloaded with chronic stress, their nervous system can be overloaded with magic. This magic overflow will cause butterfly nausea, rainbow vomit, and a build up of confetti in their lungs and sinuses.

The most common occupation a fae will pursue is as a fairy godparent. Human kids wild imagination is a great way to expel extra magic. People will work in this field for selfish reasons but that's a different problem.

IMAGE 4:

what about our pal Peri? Peri has magical Multiple Sclerosis.

Magical MS or M-MS similar to human MS, the immune system will attack the protective layer on nerve fibers causing communication problems for the nervous system.

This in fae's can cause the magic a fae can store to be decrease overtime. Fae with M-MS have weaker wings typically floating lower then their peers, numbness in limbs, lack of coordination no matter their form, slower recovery time, fatigue, and increased magic back up risk.

helps with magic, coordination, nervous system can’t hold a lot of magic, bad leg gets worse of MMS flareups

IMAGE 5:

For Peri he first discovered this only a few years prior to the show after getting optic neuritis in their right eye.

Peri switched out his wand for his cane wand. A mobility and magic aid. By enclosing the star of his wand in a sphere it acts as extra storage for his magic decreasing his magic back up risk. It also helps with slowing down the process of his nervous system getting attacked by his immune system to ensure a fae's immortal life. He has an easier time floating and casting magic.

[evilbirdy]

hey there. I was wondering if you Could do se-mi x fem reader Where reader is sick (high fever and bad cough) and she trys to hide it from her but se-mi noticed How you wouldnt let her kiss you and that your body felt really hot. She scolds u for not telling her and she takes Care of you.

thank you and have a Good Day or Night. Im sick from my brother and Girl i need se-mi to take Care of me😭😭

i can’t care about anything but you

now playing ~ lovefool by the cardigans

se-mi x fem!reader

As someone who also sick right now, we all need a fic of Se-Mi taking care of us. I might make this a little “Se-mi taking care of sick! reader” series in the future

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You hated flu season, you have a weak immune system and always ended up getting symptoms if you are around sick people. You were lying in your bedroom right now, buried in a pile of blankets. Your heated is turned on, the windows are closed, your humidifier had a cool, minty scent. Nothing was helping, you had three round of Nyquill already.

A loud cough rang through the room, you cringe as your throat burned. You ached as you got up from the bed. The small journey from your bedroom to your kitchen was difficult, your feet felt so frozen that it hurts with every step, the drowsiness from your medicine made you dizzy.

You grab some leftover soup that your friend Young-sik’s mother dropped off for you. You leaned onto the counter and was about to drift off to sleep until you heard your doorbell ring.

You jumped and looked through the keyhole, your girlfriend; Se-Mi enters your view

Oh fuck

You threw off your blanket, laying it on the couch. You wipe the sweat from your forehead before opening the door.

You let out a soft smile, choking back the cough in your throat. “Hey baby, what are you doing here?” you hum, leaning against the door. She smirks and walk into your apartment. “Why does it feel like a sauna in here?” she took off her jacket, hanging it next the door, “You know it’s about above 20 outside, babe,” she sat at your kitchen table, smelling the air.

“Soup? you barely even eat soup,” she gives a questionably look. You hummed, taking the soup out of the microwave. “Ms. Jang gave it to me, she knows I barely cook and wants to make sure I eat, I feel too guilty by not eating her food,” you sat across from her eating the soup. The soup cooled the scratching sensation in your throat and cleared your nostrils for a second.

She chuckled lowly and gets up to walk over to you. She leaned down and was about to give you a kiss but you back away.

She gives you a small confused look, side-eyeing you. “Ohh umm I was still swallowing the soup, that would have been an awkward kiss,” you tried to laugh it off and quickly ate more soup. Se- mi clicked her tongue before tucking her hand under your chin and lifted your head up. She pressed the back of her hand on your face.

“You’re hot,” she murmured, her hand moving to your face. “Oh thank you,” you tried to laugh but seen her stern face by stopping and looking down. “How long have you been sick?” you sigh, looking back up. “Only for about…a week..,” Se-mi’s eyes widen slightly before picking up and bringing you to bed.

“What made you think it was a good idea to keep this from me, huh? I could have gotten you better earlier,” she tucks you in the bed, grabbing you some medication. She laid it all on your side table and went into the drawer, getting a thermometer.

“I *cough* didn’t want to *cough* *cough* worry you,” You tried to sit up but she urges you to stay lying down. “No no, lay down baby, you don’t have to lift my finger anymore,” she grabs a tissue, wiping the sweat from your forehead. “Ahh *sneeze* aren’t I so lucky, thank you, can you grab my soup,” she nods, going to the kitchen and bringing you your soup. She helps you sit up and place the soup in front of you.

“I don’t want you to get sick baby,” she shakes her head and sits next to you. “I would rather be suffering in this bed with you than be anywhere else right now,” she kisses you lightly on the lips and tucks your hair back.

“Wove you,” your voice gotten all nasally, you violently sniff. “Wove you too,” she laughs, mocking you, she leans in again but you lightly push her back.

[trippinsorrows]

dreamland: office visits

later that day...

Moving around with a four month-old and two two year-olds is a bit of a challenge. Far from impossible but far from easy. Partially due to the fact that Solana hasn’t really taken her baby boy out much since he was born. Roman’s preference. Her husband not wanting to risk their son catching anything given his still weakened immune system. And, she was okay with that. Okay with mostly staying at home as she finished out the semester, aided by the help of her husband who’s worked from home the past few months so that it wouldn’t all be on her.

Again, very much appreciated. His assistance and hands-on approach with all the kids truly makes the biggest difference to and for her. 

It’s why she makes the minor sacrifice to gather up the kids to go see him at his office. Largely due to Lina and Leya who have somehow learned that when that tiny contact photo of Roman is on her screen, that means they’re talking. And God forbid these girls go too long without some type of interaction with their father.

Solana can count on both hands and feet just a few of the times she’s had to call Roman so he could speak with their twins or even just let them hear his voice just to get them down for a nap or because they wouldn’t settle down unless they could talk to daddy. 

It makes her smile though, because as stressful as it can be at points, she doesn’t mind it. Doesn’t mind it one bit. She loves how attached the girls are to Roman. He deserves it. Especially with how much he struggled to feel worthy of them during her pregnancy and their first few weeks of life.

“Daddy!”

Lina’s happy exclamation alerts Solana that they’ve in fact pulled up to Bloodline Headquarters, a massive building both her girls recognize like the back of their hand.

Something tells her Tama will be the same. 

It’s another process, getting all three kids out of their carseats and especially Tama into his baby wrap, a process largely aided by an observant Jacob who makes sure the girls don’t try to run off. More Lina than anything. She definitely inherited her daddy’s lack of patience, especially when it comes to seeing him.

It’s almost like waiting is impossible for her.

Thankfully, it’s a trait not shared by her sister, granted, Solana can clearly see the influence of one sister on the other. Even now as she follows behind the girls, Jacob in front of them, into the building. A small smile on her face when she sees Lina stop and look back at Leya who’s lagging somewhat. “Leya, come!” A shout that’s cloaked in love and concern, Lina taking Leya’s hand so they can walk in synch together. 

The smile deepens. 

Solana loves their relationship with their dad, but it’s got nothing on their relationship with one another.

Kissing the top of a quiet Tama’s head, she murmurs, “you’ve got awesome big sisters, baby boy.”

He truly does. 

The elevator ride consists of the girls talking to each other (more Lina talking to a mostly quiet Leya), occasionally to her, their topics all over the place and easily guided by the random things they notice in the elevator. Buttons. Lights. An emergency phone. They’re both extremely attentive. 

But, it’s as soon as they reach thee floor, the bell dinging, the doors opening, Lina grabs Leya’s hand again and guides her out the elevator. More running than anything. As much as their little legs allow them to run. 

As always, Jacob doesn’t let too much distance get between him and the girls as they move over to Alicia’s desk, Lina being the first to shout, “daddy!”

Alicia smiles and laughs. “Well, hello there, Ms. Lina and Leya.” She stands up, gasping in awe. “Look at your adorable outfits!” Her gaze shifts to Solana, complimenting, “you always dress them so nicely.”

Appreciated, kind words. “Thank you so much.” Solana alternates between dressing them in matching items and letting their outfits reflect their different personalities, and today just so happens to be a differing looks day. And even Solana can admit that her girls look absolutely adorable in their little dresses and accessories. 

Leya’s smile is bashful. Lina’s smile is loud and bright. Hand behind Tama’s head, Solana reminds, “what do you say?”

Lina says it for both of them, Leya remaining her quiet self. “Thank you!”

“You’re very welcome,” she giggles, standing up, most likely to alert Roman of their arrival. “I’ll let him know—”

“Run!”

Lina’s exclamation is followed by her, still holding Leya’s hand, rushing the two over to the double set of doors they know belong to their favorite person in the whole wide world. 

“Girls,” Solana’s attempt to gather them back by her is truly in vain. Walking over after quietly motioning for Jacob to wait near the elevators, she watches Catalina reach up on the tips of her little toes to pull on the handle. Leya, the forever cheerleader, happily bounces, rooting her sister on in their collaborative determination to not be defeated by some door.

Shaking her head, Solana walks over, ready to help them out when someone beats them to it. 

The man himself, her handsome husband, opening and immediately looking down.

“Daddy!” 

Shared excitement as they both throw themselves against his legs, instantly deciding that’s not good enough, two sets of arms lifted and stretched with one request in mind.

Roman’s smile is small and contained, but Solana can see through it. Can see through the front he’s trying to manage, can see his happiness at seeing his girls. It’s felt as he lifts them up, one in each arm. 

Solana giggles. “Told you they were excited to see you.” Roman’s gaze is briefly on her and then a still quiet Tama. “Him. Not so much.”

Roman chuckles, stepping aside and allowing her to enter. She closes the door behind her and naturally moves over to the sofa, placing the diaper bag on the floor beside her.

Going to unwrap Tama so she can hold him and allow Roman a chance to do so as well, the sound of the twins talking incessantly to their best friend fills the room.

Roman always seems to be just the cure for Leya's silence.

“Daddy, play!”

“You want me to play?” He feeds into it, Solana looking over just in time to see him take in their outfits. “Mommy dressed you both very pretty today.”

Leya’s response is to blush and bury her face into his shoulder. Lina, however, beams and points in her direction. “Mommy pretty!”

Roman chuckles. “Mommy is very pretty.” Solana chews on her bottom lip, laying Tama over her shoulder. “But, so are you two.”

The girls giggling accompany Solana standing up and walking over, gently rubbing Tama’s back. “Girls, let daddy hold your brother for a couple minutes.”

Expected shared scowls that are whipped away by Roman saying something to them in Samoan. Lina is the first to wiggle out of his grasp followed by Leya. Solana shakes her head, carefully handing a still pleasantly quiet Tama to her husband. 

“Hi, baby,” Solana finally greets, leaning up to kiss her husband on her cheek. She waits for Roman to adjust their son before commenting, half joking, half serious. “Maybe he’ll stay quiet like this when he gets to be their age.”

Roman rolls his eyes. “Not with Lina for a big sister.” He then asks, assessing her. “How you feeling?”

“I’m good,” she answers, honestly. “Never a dull moment with—Lina!” Solana is interrupted by noticing her two year-old daughter standing up in Roman’s chair, using the table to force herself to spin around. “Catalina, get down right now!”

Roman also makes sure to support Tama’s head as he turns to see what his wife was looking at that prompted her to switch to Spanish. He back hers up, ordering, “Lina, get down now.” 

And to be fair, their energetic little girl follows the request of both her parents. She just does it in a very Catalina Reigns way.

Waiting until she’s at a semi stop, Solana can only open her mouth to yell 'no' when Lina bends her knees and jumps off the chair, falling down and rolling onto the ground.

“Lina!” 

Solana overhears Roman curse as the parents move over to their daughter, along with Leya who yelled out, “sissy!”

But while Solana is concerned, Roman stressed, and Leya nervous, Lina is laughing her head off as Solana kneels to the ground and helps her sit up.

“Catalina, are you okay, baby?” Solana has her hands all over her daughter, feeling for any sort of knots or sensitive areas, only for her daredevil child to continue laughing, now recruiting her sister in the laughter.

She nods happily, Leya reaching over to hug her “big” sister, as Lina yells, “again!”

“Lina,” Roman’s deep voice shifts into something stern and authoritative. “No.”

Her pout is expected as is the way she takes Leya’s hand, standing up and racing over to the sofa, the sisters giggling together for reasons Solana doesn’t quite understand but doesn’t question either.

A sister thing.

Blowing out a deep breath, Solana stands up, sharing a look with her husband.

"I'll order the gates the minute we get home."

[creekfiend]

I have MS and I love your siren immune system guy. Now instead of imagining my immune system as a bully, I'm going to imagine it as a flock of sirens stomping at a virus like a secretary bird stomps a snake only to realise <i>oh shit oh fuck that was a nerve not a virus</i>. Maybe they have bad eyesight lol.

LITERALLY YES EXACTLY!!!!

[hillbilly---man]

A list of the specific chronic illness/disability-related things in Saiki K that resonate with me personally

(Your mileage may vary, my experiences are not universal, I recognize that some of this is kind of a reach etc etc)

The limiters

Saiki’s powers have grown too strong for him to control, and before the creation of his limiters they were out of control and causing a lot of damage. Some examples cited include accidentally destroying his house in his sleep and having telepathy that reached all over Japan (something I imagine was many many times more distressing [disabling] than his current situation) The limiters weaken his psychic powers and keep them somewhat in check. It’s not perfect, and he still does have problems, but the situation is much worse without them.

This reminds me of the medication I take to keep my immune system under control. Before I started it, my immune system (thanks to MS) was causing lots of issues for me: it took the vision in my left eye, made it difficult to walk and use my arm for a few months, caused horrible leg spasms, et cetera. My medicine helps keep things in check and hopefully prevents future damage... But nothing is perfect. Of course, it’s a monthly shot instead of silly pink balls on my head! So that's a plus 👍

The way he struggles to control his body after Nendo removed his limiter unexpectedly

After being hit with a shock to his system at the sports festival, Saiki struggles harder than usual to control his strength. We see him frustrated with this as he’s eating, his hand trembling as he holds his chopsticks. He tries to power through, but the issues don’t resolve.

I’m fortunate to usually be pretty functional most days (I do have my bad days though lol). However, when I go through significant stress - either mental or physical - it makes a lot of issues pop up that usually don’t bother me. Balance issues, vision stuff.. And hand tremors. Like, I was at a sushi restaurant after getting overheated at the pride festival last year struggling a lil with my chopsticks laughing at myself like “this is just like Saiki at the sports festival…”

Developing new powers unexpectedly

A major source of stress for Saiki is being unpleasantly surprised by a new psychic ability. In the series, we see this a few times. The most notable to me is the time leap ability. He wakes up having accidentally traveled 20 years in the past (soon after it is revealed that his limiter has a defective part). Afterward, we learn when he’s stuck in the time loops with Nendo and Kaido that this time leap ability has been coming back randomly since then “As unexpected and frequent as getting the hiccups”. He spends the entire chapter trying to get control over this ability so he can continue his day as planned. In another chapter, his limiter is malfunctioning and he develops a series of useless powers that he cannot control. Clearly, the limiters are preventing new powers from developing (see my first bullet point!!)

So, another thing about conditions such as mine is that you really can just wake up one day and have some weird symptom you’ve never heard of before! I remember not long after my first big attack I was at Walmart and I just noticed that my index finger was completely numb, and it stayed that way for weeks. One time, my upper lip twitched constantly for like a month straight. Of course, more than just the relatively silly symptoms can and do pop up like that, too. For example, I had these really scary, uncontrollable spasms on my left side (paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia) that happened several times a day for about a week. For a LONG time afterward I would be terrified of them coming back. It's still in the back of my mind but I'm not losing sleep over it anymore at least. Reading those panels above re: the time leap stuff reminds me a lot of that time!

Neuroplasticity and the power remover device

When Kusuke is explaining how the power remover works, he talks about how the brain rewires itself around damaged areas to compensate. The device is designed to more completely destroy the areas of his brain responsible for the psychic abilities. Of course, the device ultimately did not work permanently. The damage it did to his brain was quickly compensated for, and the abilities returned.

When small areas of the brain are damaged (such as… due to a neurodegenerative autoimmune condition), over time the brain can often restructure to work around it. It doesn’t mean that those areas are healed, and the process is often incomplete, but that rewiring can (completely or partially) restore abilities and function that was lost in the damage. They don’t say that explicitly in the series, but that’s surely what is happening to Saiki in the final chapters! Except, you know, in a magical shonen manga way.

Resistance to the idea of needing help

After Saiki uses the power remover device, he loses his abilities and is suddenly much weaker and less capable than he was before. He was used to being extremely independent, but this change has brought him to a place where he cannot do everything on his own anymore. In the library, he struggles to get a book off the top shelf and in the process is reminded of his new limitations. He says to himself “What am I doing…!? Just get used to it already!” After the bookcase is tipped over onto him and Nendo protects him, Saiki is upset about having to be protected when he never needed it before: “I’m so useless now…” Nendo helps him realize that getting help from others is normal.

Helping each other out is one of the most fundamentally important parts of being human, but it can be hard to accept that support sometimes. This is especially the case when you’re thinking about the prospect of needing more help than you used to. I'm fortunate to be relatively unaffected most of the time so far, but I'm still grateful for when the people I love are understanding and don't make a big deal out of it. I hate the idea of being burdensome so I'm just gonna cross my fingers and hope things don't get worse lol

Conclusion: Saiki is just like me for real and I'm DEFINITELY not projecting my own problems into him at all...

we're ignoring the 20k word fic I wrote where I blatantly projected my problems onto him for seven chapters

thanks @justmagicalgirl for encouraging me last week to post this 👍

[feyhunter78]

Pink Pastels Pt 12

Description: Gabi has a fever and Miguel needs to go retrieve her book.

Pt 13

Gabi has a fever, a low one, nothing to worry about, but Miguel kept her home from school, so she could rest. He actually enjoys her sick days, not her being sick, but how he gets an excuse to take off work and spend all day watching TV with her.

She snuggles up against him, and eats slices of strawberries he cut up earlier, while telling him the backstory of every show that they watch.

He has her go to bed way earlier than usual, tucking her in and retreating into the kitchen to prepare her lunch for tomorrow. Her fever hasn’t broken yet, but it could in the morning, and he wants her to be prepared.

“Papá, I forgot something.” Gabi’s voice is tinged with sleep, and she’s in her light blue pajamas decorated with little cartoon hippos, her stuffed bear under her arm.

“Forgot what, Mija?” He asks, padding over to her and resting the back of his hand on her forehead, still a little warm.

“I left my book at school, and I need it, or I’ll fall behind the others.” Her bottom lip is trembling, her eyes, just like his, rimmed with tears.

No one likes to be sick, and he knows it’s so much harder on kids because they just don’t understand and don’t know how to feel better. It wears on them and their still developing immune systems.

“I can go by and get it tomorrow, okay?”

She pouts, tears rolling down her cheek as she hugs her bear Oso to her chest. “I need it now, please, I promise I’ll go to bed right now, but you have to get my book.”

He glances at the time on the microwave, six forty-five. It’s not too late, there might still be someone there and if not, he can just sneak in.

“Okay Mija, I’m going to ask Tia Margo to come watch you while I go get your book, but you better be fast asleep when I get back.” He points a faux stern finger at her, and she giggles.

“I will be, I promise.”

He’s lucky, the school is still open, and he heads straight for your room. He’s a few steps away, the colorful paper decorating your door visible when he hears it.

You’re crying.

“I don’t know what you wanted me to do, Todd, you were being an asshole.”

He leans forward, enhanced hearing picking up the other side of the conversation.

“Shit, I don’t know Y/N, maybe humor a guy for once?”

“Humor you? What you said was so degrading, how could you even think that was okay?” You’re still crying, but he can pick out the notes of anger in your voice.

“You’re such a bitch, this is why the guys keep telling me to break up with you.” Todd sneers.

You fall silent, a sob bubbling forth, and Miguel’s heart bleeds. He wants to comfort you, but knows you’ll be embarrassed to be seen in such a state.

“I could get with so many other girls y/n, but I choose you, so maybe act a little grateful?”

“Grateful?” You echo, shock evident.

“Yeah, grateful.”

You laugh, the sound sharp, piercing, like glass shattering. “Fuck you Todd, we’re done, get the fuck out of my life, never call me again, I hope you fucking fall off a bridge.”

Fall off a bridge? Miguel smothers a laugh, now that was an idea.

You hang up and slam your phone down, before sinking into your desk chair.

He peeks his head into the room to see your head buried in your arms, your shoulder shaking softly.

“Ms. Y/N?” He knocks on the door frame, and you shoot up quickly, trying to wipe away your tears.

“Mr. O’Hara, hi, I-I’m so sorry, did we have an appointment?” Your voice is watery, false cheeriness pushing through.

“No, Gabi left her book here, and she didn’t want to fall behind.” He explains, walking over to her desk and quickly finding the book.

“Oh, I see, well she doesn’t need to wor—” You burst into tears, your words lost in sobs.

He moves, leaves Gabi’s book on her desk, and pulls you to his chest. “Y/N, what’s wrong?”

You wrap your arms around him, sobbing into his shirt. “This parent, she-she was so mean, and I just want her son to be supported, and then Todd, and he—”

Miguel shushes you gently, swaying back and forth with you, resting his chin on the crown of your head. “It’s alright, cariño, it’s alright.”

You squeeze him tighter, desperate for comfort, and he feels his heart is going to burst. You fit so perfectly in his arms, and you smell so good, that same scent of wisteria and fresh laundry. “I just—she said I was a subpar teacher, and that I didn’t care about my kids.”

He bristles. “She’s lying, you’re an amazing teacher. You love your kids deeply, and they love you.”

You continue to cry, and he cards his fingers through your hair, as he coos and whispers reassurances.

“And Todd, he’s such a dick, and now we’re over, and he’s going to try and turn all our friends against me, and then I won’t have any friends and—”

He pulls back and cups your face. “You will have friends; you are a kind and loving person who is a joy to be around. Anyone who listens to Todd over you is an idiot.”

You meet his eyes, and he feels your grip on his arms loosen. “I—thank you, Mr. O’Hara.”

“Miguel.” He says gently, brushing the tears from your face.

A flicker of recognition goes through your eyes, but then it fades, and you move to step away from him. “Thank you, Miguel. And I’m sorry you had to see such a state, I promise I’m not so emotional in front of my class.”

He doesn’t let you leave, keeps his hands framing your face, and takes a step forward for the one you took back. “No apology needed. I’d like to consider us friends, and it’s the least I could do for a friend.”

The smile that blooms on your lips is radiant, and he stops himself from staggering back.

“I’d like that too.”

He doesn’t want to release you; he wants to hold you forever. Keep you safe in his arms, away from anything that could upset you.

Your phone rings and you turn away to pick it up.

He waits as you walk out into the hall, your voice hushed as you talk quickly with someone on the other line.

You come back in, a fresh wave of tears accompanying you. “My landlord just—Todd destroyed my—evicted.”

Your words are choppy, but he gets the gist. Todd must have gone to your place and trashed it, your landlord got fed up with Todd’s actions, and now you’re out on the streets.

“Let me make a few calls, I’ll take care of this.” He reassures you, pulling you back into his embrace as he calls Lyla, keeping her on the phone and not appearing in midair. He talks to her in Spanish, so you’re unaware of his plan and once she confirms it’s all been set up, he drops back into English. “The apartment next to mine, it’s been sitting empty for months, I’m good friends with the landlord, he’s desperate to rent it out.”

“I have to get all my stuff and—”

“I’ll help you."

Tag list: @nyctophilic0vitnir, @miggyoharaswife, @badbishsblog, @imisshim2much, @wanderlustingcastaway, @lynn-9703, @sleepyamaya, @erensbbg, @sweetea85, @ilovemiguelohara, @natthernandez, @stxrrielle, @ihateuguys, @jenniferdixon05207, @blep-23, @luvisaaxoxo, @minimari415, @emerald-09, @violet-19999, @kenchosaikuo, @groovycass, @youcantseem3, @lovefks, @nightshxdex, @dusstory, @aesniri, @munsonssecretblog, @kirke-is-my-name, @starbearieee, @chatoicboy, @act1839, @needsleep3000, @totally-not-georgia, @witchy-lizard, @cxmeiloorun7, @justrandomlolidk, @chimpkinnuggies, @alicefallsintotherabbithole, @loser-alert, @wwwellacom, @ryantryan6969, @lollipopin, @blakeaha, @youcantseem3, @a-cult-leader, @verexi, @purpleskiesandroses, @they2luv1naia, @sophiaj650, @idolautism, @rheannajrs, @merakiq

[covid-safer-hotties]

Also preserved in our archive

From August 2023

By Mary Van Beusekom, MS

The COVID-19 International Research Team (COV-IRT) and the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) report that they have identified abnormal mitochondrial function in the heart, kidneys, and liver after SARS-CoV-2 infection, which leads to long-term damage and may help explain long COVID.

Mitochondria are the so-called "powerhouses" of cells, and the researchers noted that previous studies have shown that SARS-CoV-2 proteins can bind to mitochondrial proteins in host cells, possibly leading to dysregulation.

The team analyzed mitochondrial gene expression in tissues from COVID-19 patients' nose and throat, along with tissues from deceased patients and hamsters and mice. The results were published today in Science Translational Medicine.

"The tissue samples from human patients allowed us to look at how mitochondrial gene expression was affected at the onset and end of disease progression, while animal models allowed us to fill in the blanks and look at the progression of gene expression differences over time," first author Joseph Guarnieri, PhD, a postdoctoral research at CHOP, said in a hospital news release.

Research identifies potential therapeutic target In autopsy tissue, mitochondrial gene expression had recovered in the lungs, but not in the heart, kidneys, and liver. The rodent tissue and measurement of the time of peak viral load in the lungs showed that mitochondrial gene expression was suppressed in the cerebellum, even though SARS-CoV-2 wasn't found in the brain. The cerebellum coordinates and regulates muscle activity.

Other animal models showed signs of recovery of mitochondrial function in the lungs during the mid-phase of COVID-19 infection.

Co-senior author Douglas Wallace, PhD, of CHOP, said that the study offers strong evidence that COVID-19 is a systemic disease that affects multiple organs rather than strictly an upper respiratory illness. "The continued dysfunction we observed in organs other than the lungs suggests that mitochondrial dysfunction could be causing long-term damage to the internal organs of these patients," he said in the release.

The results also identified a potential therapeutic target, microRNA 2392, which was shown to regulate mitochondrial function in the human tissue samples, said co-senior author Afshin Beheshti, PhD, president of COV-IRT and a visiting researcher at the Broad Institute.

"This microRNA was upregulated in the blood of patients infected by SARS-CoV-2, which is not something we normally would expect to see," he said. "Neutralizing this microRNA might be able to impede the replication of the virus, providing an additional therapeutic option for patients who are at risk for more serious complications related to the disease."

The researchers said they will use these data to conduct future studies on how systemic immune and inflammatory responses may lead to more severe illness in some patients.

Study link: www.science.org/doi/10.1126/scitranslmed.abq1533

[mindblowingscience]

An estimated 2.8 million people worldwide have multiple sclerosis (MS). This autoimmune condition is the result of the immune system damaging parts of the nerves in the brain and spinal cord, which can lead to problems with movement, vision, balance and sensation. While many MS symptoms can be managed, there's currently no way to cure or prevent the condition. This is due to the complex immune response that leads to this disease. But a blood test recently developed by me and my colleagues has allowed us to estimate the strength of the immune response in people with MS. This finding may not only bring us one step closer to understanding the causes of MS, but to developing better treatments for the condition.

Continue Reading.

[rusted-phone-calls]

have not had to survive 4 hours of sleep for a while

[starsandmoonys]

I love Jean Moreau, Kevin Day, Neil Josten, Andrew Minyard…

And as someone in nursing school, I just wanna say

Living in fight or flight mode for too long will FUCK YOU UP

like I can cite works if you need but living in fight or flight gives you a weak immune system, high blood pressure, high risk of a cardiovascular event (like heart attack), strokes, diabetes, and shit like organ failure

People who go through extensive trauma and live in fight or flight - often when they get out of that (it can take a few weeks or a year or two) foe their body to finally process they’re safe, and usually when this happens their body literally *shuts down* and they get *so sick*

I’m not saying Jeremy Knox taking care of an impossibly sick Jean Moreau but I’m not not saying. That

Gonna @ my queen of angst here Ms Nora herself @korakos