When the Brain Dies First (Single Titles-Science)

Examines the functioning of the human brain, various causes that impede its proper functioning, and research into prevention and treatment of brain injuries and disorders.

Gr 8 Up-Hyde and Setaro offer a brief description of the structure and functions of the brain, followed by individual chapters about what can destroy it, such as mad cow and similar spongiform diseases, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's, stroke, accidental injury, toxic chemicals, drugs, and nutrient deficiency. Personalized anecdotes reveal the effects that brain injury can have on victims and their families. Black-and-white photographs of celebrities such as Muhammad Ali, Ronald Reagan, Woody Guthrie, and Annette Funicello put familiar faces to the consequences of brain damage. Two chapters examine ethical considerations and societal impact of dealing with people whose brains are essentially dead while their bodies continue to function. The landmark cases of Karen Ann Quinlan and Nancy Cruzan illustrate the complexity of these situations. A hopeful note is struck in the final chapter, which discusses research offering prevention, detection, and possible curative measures. A lengthy list of organizations concerned with brain disease and injury with addresses and telephone numbers is appended.-Ann G. Brouse, Big Flats Branch Library, NY

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