Background The science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields are often underrepresented due to lack of interest or exposure. The Brain Bee is a neuroscience competition for high school students meant to inspire future leaders in the neurosciences. A regional Brain Bee competition hosted in West Virginia was led by medical students and neurology residents with the goal of increasing high school student interest in the neurosciences. Activity The West Virginia Brain Bee competition consisted of a neuroanatomy practical, a written exam, and a clinical assessment. Other fun neuroscience educational activities were also offered to students throughout the competition day. Students were surveyed before and after the competition day. Results Student interest in pursuing a neuroscience career increased (3.24 to 3.58, p = 0.043), and confidence in neuroscience knowledge increased (2.88 to 3.12, p = 0.036). Qualitative assessment revealed the importance of role models and a supportive environment for student learning. Conclusion The West Virginia Brain Bee increased high school student interest in and confidence of neuroscience knowledge. This competition may be a meaningful way to connect high school students with potential mentors in the neurosciences and may also help foster an interest in pursuing a career in the neurosciences in the future.
A 47-year-old man with a history of isolated, severe, recurrent episcleritis of the left eye, on adalimumab and methotrexate for the past 2 years, presented with acute vertigo. Two days later, in addition to ongoing vertigo, he developed a mild headache behind his right eye, which intensified over 5 days and worsened with Valsalva maneuver and when lying down. He denied nausea, vomiting, light or sound sensitivity, or a history of headaches. On the fifth day of symptoms, he developed double vision, which persisted regardless of the severity of the headache and was worse when looking to the right. On examination, vital signs were normal without evidence of fever. Extraocular movements were notable for mildly restricted gaze of the right eye when looking toward the right side. Pupils were reactive, ophthalmoscopic examination did not show papilledema, and finger to nose test was normal. Mental status, strength, sensation, and reflexes were normal.
Questions for Consideration:1. Based on the presenting symptoms, what is on the differential? 2. What studies would you obtain to help narrow the differential diagnosis?
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