Colonoscopy and Colorectal Cancer

The overall mortality rate from colorectal cancer was found to be 29% lower in patients who undergo regular colorectal screening than that of the general population. However, for proximal cancer, the mortality rate was estimated to be the same as that for the general population.

Aspirin and Prostate Cancer

The wonder drug Aspirin (ASA) has been found to be useful beyond headaches and fever. New studies point out that patients with prostate cancer also benefit from taking ASA. Those who take ASA can expect a reduced risk from dying from the disease, a reduced risk for the cancer to metastasize, and a lower risk for cancer recurrence after remission.

Prostate Biopsy

Prostate biopsy is done by a urologist guided by ultrasound. A needle is inserted in different locations to sample tissues from the prostate gland. Some physicians believe that the biopsy procedure itself carries the risk of "spreading" cancer cells to other areas of the body, thus making the situation worse than what it is. Unfortunately, the biopsy procedure is the only "test" possible to confirm or rule out prostate cancer for sure.

The PSA Saga

It seems there is no end to this business about PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen). Almost daily, or so it seems, there is a new study coming out either supporting the test or declaring it worthless. A recent study from Cleveland Clinic emphasizes the importance of PSA test on saving the burden of cancer metastasis (spreading of cancer cells to other areas of the body). In this study, researchers have compared patients with prostate cancer before the PSA test was discovered/implemented and after its widespread use in the clinic as a routine screening test. The results showed that patients without the PSA test had 8%-24% higher number of cases with metastatic disease than patients who were tested with PSA.

Cancer Types and Prognosis: The Case for Pancreatic Cancer

Different cancer types differ in their "aggression." For example 100% of prostate cancer patients survive at least 5 years from diagnosis compared to 89% for breast cancer and 65% for colorectal cancer. However, for pancreatic cancer the prognosis is much worse; only 6% survive the 5-year period. New research in this field has pointed out that despite this poor prognosis, pancreatic cancers are "slow growers" lasting about 21 years on average before they become deadly. Thus, early detection is vital for this disease. Currently, persons with a family history of pancreatic cancer are screened with MRI and/or ultrasound. However, a more practical test is needed to allow for routine screening of the entire population. Scientists are hopeful that such a test may be made possible within the next decade.

Whooping Cough

Whooping cough is on the increase in California. The disease has already claimed the life of 10 infants. The total number of cases infected as of yesterday (October 29, 2010) is 6,257. It is the highest recorded number of cases for over 60 years.

What Is a %?

Oftentimes the symbol "%" is found on labels of botanicals. It is used to express the concentration of a "surrogate" component in the plant available in the formulation. It is a way to standardize the herbal formulations. Say we have on a capsule formulation the term (0.3%) for a specific substance, this means we have 0.3 g of that substance in every 100 g of powder present in the capsule shells. (The symbol percent here means percent by weight.) For example, if the powder inside a capsule weighs 300 mg, this means there is 0.9 mg of the "surrogate" compound per capsule. Other "%" terms are %w/v and %v/v. The former is defined as the number of grams of a substance in 100 milliliters of solution. Whereas, %v/v is the number of milliliters of a component in 100 milliliters of solution. There is also the concentration unit "%mg" which is known as milligram percent. This one is defined as the number of milligrams of a substance in 100 milliliters of solution.

Could the Human Race Be One Day Extinct?

As a species, human could also one day get extinct from planet Earth. It is possible that a major natural disaster such as a large asteroid hitting our planet will result in killing every living thing on Earth. However, our planet has always allowed some sort of life to exist on it. Perhaps a new creation will be born. Perhaps a better one than the human race. We have done so much destruction and caused so much pain that perhaps any other creation would be a better one. Does God have a plan like that for us? Don't tell that to the Dinosaurs, they thought too that they were the "be all end all" until they were gone, all gone, and for good.

Can 40 Equal 60?

It could be if 40 and 60 were averages. Let me illustrate my point. Suppose we measured the weight of 9 pieces of chicken wings and their average weight was 40 g. Also suppose that the normal average chicken wings weight is 60 g with a standard deviation of 25 g. Now, is 40 g as an average statistically different from 60 g? To answer this question we will use the normal distribution (the bell-shape curve) and report our finding with 99% confidence. The estimation goes like that: z-score = (40 - 60)/(25/3) = -2.4; Since the probability of obtaining a z-score of (-2.4) by chance alone is greater than 1%, we declare that the average weight of 40 g for our sample of 9 chicken wings is the same as that of the population (the 60 g average).

How to Convert From Molar Concentrations to Grams Per Liter?

This can be illustrated by the following example: A solution for HCl is labeled as 0.1 M. This means it contains 0.1 mole of HCl per one liter of solution. Since the molecular weight of HCl is 36.5 g/mole, then (0.1 mole/liter) x (36.5 g/mole) = 3.65 g/liter, or can be written as 0.365% w/v. (The symbol %w/v is for percent weight per volume which is defined as the amount of a substance in grams in every 100-milliliter volume of solution. One deciliter is 100 milliliters.)

The pH Scale

The pH scale is used to express the concentration of hydrogen ions (also known as hydronium ions) in solution. The higher the value of the pH the more basic the solution is. Thus, acidic solutions like soda drinks have low pH values. A neutral pH at room temperature equals to 7. The concentration of hydrogen ions is expressed in moles/liter. For example, if a solution contains (E-5) mole/liter of [H+], then the pH of the solution is 5. Inversely, if the pH of a solution were 2, then the concentration of [H+] in solution would be (E-2) mole/liter. Normal blood pH is 7.4. Normal empty stomach juice pH is between 1 and 3, and that of the small intestine is about 5-6. (It is interesting to note that cola drinks have similar pH values as that of stomach juice.) Healthy human skin surface has also a pH between 5-6. Life itself depends on maintaining body fluids' pH constant. A too large deviation from a blood normal pH of 7.4 could result in death. Not only human cannot survive without a healthy pH for his blood, but Earth itself depends on a natural pH of the soil for plants' survivor. The pH scale is indeed a scale for life.

Avogadro's Number: How was It Calculated?

Avogadro's Law for gases states that under the same temperature and pressure the number of molecules of any gas per unit volume is constant. Experimentally, this number was determined to be (2.70 x E22). Also, for ideal gases, the volume of one mole of a gas under 1 Standard atmospheric pressure and at the ice point equals 22.414 liters. If we multiply (2.70 x E22) by (22.414) we would obtain the Avogadro's Number. The currently accepted value for Avogadro's Number is (6.0225 x E23) molecules/mole.

States of Matter

Everyone knows that matter can exist as gas, liquid, or solid. However, a fourth state of matter known as liquid crystal is very abundant in nature. As the name implies, this state is an intermediate state between liquids and solids. Liquid crystalline state is also known as a mesophase. There are three types of mesophase state: Smectic, Nematic, and Cholesteric. They differ in their molecular arrangement of the molecules. Much of the lipids in our body is made of one of these mesophases. Thus, life is rich in mesophase structures. Is not that interesting that liquid crystal is not as popular as the other three? It is time for the mesophases to be recognized for their contribution to life itself and take their rightfull place among the states of matter.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea Tree Oil (TTO) is the essential oil extracted from Tee Tree Plant. This plant is native to Australia and has been used as antiseptic for many years by the Australian natives. It is also an excellent remedy for acne and nail fungal infections. It may be used for yeast and bacterial vaginal infections as well. The oral ingestion of a teaspoonful of TTO is fatal. Thus, the use of TTO in mouthwashes is highly NOT recommended. It is very effective in the treatment of minor cuts and wounds.

Red Yeast Rice

Red Yeast Rice is an excellent natural substance for lowering serum cholesterol level. The normal dose for adults is 1600 mg/day. Consult with your physician before taking Red Yeast Rice as serious side effects may develop from its use.

The Definition of Placebo

Placebo is defined as an inert substance with no pharmacological activity. Yet, the medical establishment has always known the impact of placebo effect on health. Psychiatrists would tell you that 50% of the activity of many medications they use is due to a placebo effect. In Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM), we consider "placebo effect" to be a very valuable tool for healing. We consider this effect as a sign that the inner healing power of the body is being awaken. Each one of us possesses this inner power to heal one-self. However, various stressors in life, be it physical or emotional, subdue this inner ability to heal. Botanicals and other CAM modalities cause this inner natural healing power in us to rise again to the surface and does its work to restore us to health. Placebo effect is a real effect; it is our body's own healing power.

Resveratrol

Resveratrol is found in the grape-skin and in red wine, among other sources. Studies have shown that this agent has the ability to stop cancer in all of its different stages: initiation, promotion, and invasion. It is in particular useful in halting the progression of prostate cancer. Overall, Resveratrol is an excellent natural substance for cancer prevention.

Toys Story 3: The Movie

I went and saw Toys Story 3 yesterday. It is a five-star movie (*****). Make sure to bring with you enough tissue papers.

Why Do Some Patients Do Not Respond Well to Anti-Depressive Medications?

The answer to this question may be found in genetics. A gene with the name MKP-1 may hold the key to whether a patient will respond to anti-depressive medications or not. Patients who do not respond to the anti-depressive medications have twice as much of MKP-1 in their brain as those who respond to medications. This finding may explain why up to 40% of patients suffering from depression do not do well on anti-depressive drugs. The answer may be as simple as having too much of this "depression gene" in their brain.

Why Do Some Women Have Difficulty in Getting Pregnant in Their Thirties?

New genetic research may have the answer for why some women may experience difficulties in getting pregnant if they delay having babies until they are in their thirties. It appears that there are four genes that cause 1 out of 20 women to experience an early menopause (in their forties). These genes explain that women's ability to bear children begins to decline at least 10 years of becoming menopausal. Say, if a woman with the four genes is set to have her menopause at age 45 (the average age for menopause in industrialized nations is 50), then her ability to bear children is diminished starting at age 35. This 35-year old woman will have a hard time to conceive versus another woman who does not have the four genes. Genetic testing for the presence of the four genes may become available in a clinic near you soon.

Niacin Effect on Platelets: Actual Data From One Subject

A steady decrease in platelets count was observed while taking niacin (300 mg/day). Once niacin stopped, a sharp rebound in platelets count was observed. The data are actual observations taken over a period of approximately 6 months.

Total Cholesterol vs. LDL Level: A Predictive Model

A predictive model is suggested for estimating the Serum LDL concentration (mg/dL) from Total Serum Cholesterol (mg/dL) in the same person. The predictive model has the following mathematical expression:

LDL Level = -26.92 + 0.808 (Total Serum Cholesterol)

The p value for this model was less than 0.0001. Also, 88.7% of the variability in LDL is explained by the Total Serum Cholesterol. For example, a person has a Total Serum Cholesterol of 200 mg/dL. His estimated LDL concentration in serum is:

LDL Level = -26.92 + 0.808 (200) = 134.68 mg/dL

The clinically acceptable range for Total Serum Cholesterol in adults is 100 to 199 mg/dL and that for LDL is less than 100 mg/dL. It should be emphasized that other factors also contribute to the Serum LDL level, however their contributions to the variability in Serum LDL according to this model is less than 12%.

Catholic Faith and Evolution

Just for the sake of clarity, Catholic faith does not teach that evolution is not real. The Catholic Church recognizes that God created everything including evolution of species. I was never taught in the Catholic Church that evolution is a theory we are supposed to oppose. While it is important to stress on the fact that a supreme being, God, has created the universe and everything in it, it is also of importance not to contradict scientific facts just because they are not found in the Bible. Yes, God created the human being according to the Book of Genesis, however it does not tell us exactly how Adam and Eve looked like. God created man in his image; that is the spirit of man was pure. Do you really think that God physically looks like us. Think again. The Bible talks about the spiritual birth of man in the image of God. Biology explains how man evolved over time.

Is Evolution Real?

Yes. Evolution is no longer a theory. It happens daily. There are species that vanish and others replace them every day. If you are not watching you would not have known it. For politicians who do not believe in evolution I feel sorry for you. I really do. Are you serious you do not believe in evolution? Okay. Here is another one, Earth is not flat; it is a globe. Surprised! I think neither of these two facts are in the Bible, but they are true. The Bible was not meant to be a textbook for biology. Do not confuse it with your high school biology text. It is a religious book. For evolution, I recommend reading a biology book or two. Happy reading.

Chile Gave Us A New Hope

The latest miners rescue in Chile gave everyone of us a renewed faith in the human race. For a while I thought trust is a dying commodity, that goodness is becoming a rarity, and optimism is a thing of the past. But, here came the rescue mission in Chile. If you were human at all, you would have felt the same emotions that I felt. Being scared and worried, hopeful, scared again, more hope, praying, a tear or two, claustrophobic, feeling joyful, smiling again, crying one more time, hugging the coach and waiting, mesmerizing, laughing with tears, and joyful again because I felt human again. Chile gave me hope that we are not turning back to monkeys. For a while I thought evolution is going backward. Human beings are acting like animals. Hate, wars, destruction, abuse, neglect, fear, sadness, torture, famine, crimes, abandonment, but HOPE concurred them all. Chile, perhaps you are a small country, but you acted like a GIANT. A giant of hope. Thank you.

Monday is Columbus Day

This coming Monday is Columbus Day. It commemorates the discovery of America by Columbus, the first "illegal alien".

Are We Alone?

Logic dictates that planet Earth cannot be unique in the Universe. Whether you believe in a creator or you do not, it is highly improbable that our beautiful planet is the only one that supports life. Scientists just discovered a new planet "similar" to ours some 20 light-year away. (If we could travel by the speed of light it would take us 20 years to get there.) Many believe that our planet is being visited by extraterrestrial aliens (ET). The intention of their visits, if they are true, remain unknown. I would argue that such ETs have mastered the ability to prolong their lives so much so that they could travel long distance and reach their destination alive. I hope it is true that we are being visited by such beings. Perhaps they could teach us a thing or two about extending our lives, a matter I get interested in it by the day as I get older. ET, if you are reading this blog post, please leave me a comment. Wouldn't you? I am waiting.

Where to Get Organic Herbs

A new list on this site will include herbal resources. Please check this list often on this page as we will be updating the information on it periodically. BMP does not have any affiliation with any of these companies. This list is provided as an educational information. Always investigate the quality and the safety of herbal products on your own before you make the purchase. Many herbs/botanicals have interactions with drugs or on their own they could result in severe injuries and even death. Always (no exceptions) consult with your physician before you take anything related to your health. He/she is the one who "supposedly" has all the information on your medical history and can make a decision whether an herb or botanical is good for you. Wishing you the best of healthy life.

Papaya Leaves Tea Infusion

Papaya leaves are known to produce an increase in the blood platelets count. A tea infusion of Papaya dry leaves may be prepared by boiling a cup of water and then adding one teaspoonful of the dried leaves. Cover the tea and let it sit on the counter for about 8-10 minutes. Drink while it is hot. For sweetening the tea, add some organic honey. Purchase the organic variety of Papaya leaves.

Proton Pump Inhibitors

New studies are emerging on the link between heart attack and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). These studies are showing an increase in the risk of heart attack by 25% for those patients who take PPIs on a daily basis for a long time. PPIs are normally used to suppress acid secretion from the stomach for those who suffer from acid reflux disease (GERDS). Some of the PPIs are now available over-the-counter and do not require a physician prescription. Consult with your primary health provider about your use of PPIs before initiating treatment.

Happy Sunday Morning

Early Christians used to go to church to attend a service early Sunday morning. The few thousands of early Christians had greater faith than all the millions of Christians living today. It is true we are away from the risen Lord by about 2000+ years, however we keep forgetting that the Holy Spirit lives with us as he had lived with all the generations following Christ. The Holy Spirit is here. We probably do not see him, but he is walking the streets with us, at work with us, at churches, at the grocery stores, etc. The Holy Spirit gives strength and encouragement. He has spoken through the prophets in the Old Testament and lives within the church, in each one of us, despite our failures. This is the Season of the Holy Spirit. Let us rejoice. Hallelujah.

Preventive Care

According to Western medical doctors (allopathic physicians) the extent of "preventive care" is simply the annual physical exam. While the annual physical may be a part of prevention, but by itself is just a tiny portion of preventive health. Prevention includes living healthy: mind, body, and spirit. It includes eating the healthy food, having positive thinking, and keeping in touch with the Creator. Our Creator is the source of life. He feeds us with spiritual nourishment to keep our spirit away from destruction. Being in contact with source of light gives clarity to our mind which yields a prosperous and happy life. In turn, happy life nourishes the immune system, the body's source for defence. Happy life does not allow stress to overcome it. Since stress is the cause of 80% of diseases--a scientific medical fact, happy life is also a healthy life. Physical exam may be part of preventive care, but by itself is useless. It is time for the allopathic medical establishment to realize that an 8-minute annual visit to the doctor does not, on its own, prevent disease. Health and maintaining it requires a whole life change, and a brief annual visit to the doctor cannot teach people how to live healthy. It is time for the medical establishment to emphasize on health and not on disease. It is time for the doctors to once again become teachers of health, the true meaning of the title "doctor".

Niacin Side Effects

Niacin is Vitamin B3. In addition to lowering platelets count, niacin has the potential of causing liver damage. Patients who are taking niacin should be monitored for their liver functions at minimum every three months.

Downers

Have you ever had the experience of talking to people that always bring up the negative stuff? These people focus on the bad and the ugly, the distressing and the stressing, the sad and the miserable, the stuff that really make you hate your life and yourself. There are people like that living in your neighborhood, school, place of employment, church, tennis club, soccer club, football club, baseball club, etc. that part of their enjoyment is to make you feel miserable. When they want to congratulate you on your birthday, for example, they tell you how old you are now and how fast you are closing in on the end of your life. They remind you with death and sadness, tears and miseries. Perhaps some members of your family are like that (don't we all have one or two of those?) Avoid them if you can. Avoid them like a plague. Keep them from "contaminating" your happiness. We are not created to be miserable. We are made in the image of the Almighty Joyful God. We should be joyful and happy. Keep away from those downers and enjoy life to its fullest. Amen.

Coffee and Parkinson's Disease

Drinking coffee is associated with a reduced risk of developing Parkinson's disease. About one-fourth of the population carries a version of the gene GRIN2A that is helpful in protecting individuals from developing the disease.

Colon Cancer Detection

The most useful technique for colon cancer detection currently is colonoscopy. Researchers from a Denmark-based institute are working on a simple blood test to detect colon cancer in its earliest stages. This test utilizes the "microRNA" method for detecting biomarkers that are specific for colon cancer. This technique is about to be tested in clinical trial on a relatively large scale. Most colonoscopy procedures are done on a three-year or a five-year schedule which could miss early cancer development during the period between testing. The good news is that for most colon cancer, their development from polyps into malignant tumors is slow and takes literally years to be completed.

A New Poll on BMP

We began today a new poll on Botanical Medicine Posts (BMP). This with respect to a proposed meeting for the Bloggers in the area of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM). Even if you are not a Blogger in CAM but interested to participate, please respond to the poll. The poll will end on December 10, 2010 at midnight. Depending on the interest we will or will not meet in Boston, MA next year. Thank you for participating. BMP

Aspirin and Niacin

Taking one aspirin tablet a day may overcome the problem of face flushing associated with taking niacin. However, the concomitant administration of these two chemicals together has a great potential for harm. They both affect the platelets in a negative way, causing potential spontaneous bleeding. In addition, taking aspirin for a relatively short period of time (several weeks) may cause ulcers in the gastrointestinal tract. These ulcers may bleed and require hospitalization. Consult with your physician before taking these agents and follow his/her advise.

Giving

According to some christian churches (not all of them), there are four ways for giving. These are Tithing, First-Fruit, Alms, and Seed. The first two are acts of obedience (if you still think that you still are under the Mosaic Law). Alms is an act of charity, whereas Seed is an act of faith. Some believe that if you give, God will reward you with more. They even cite verses from the Bible to prove their point. While I am not oppose to giving per Se, I do have an issue in "marketing" and misleading folks for telling them they are going to get rich if they donate $1000 to a TV station. As I am writing this Post, a Christian TV station is having a fund drive to support their mission. I have no problem with people giving for this noble cause. It is great to have a TV station devoted to preaching the Bible. What I found it unnecessary is to propose the idea that if you give $1000 to this station, God will reward you with a multitude of money and make you rich. I just do not think Jesus died on the cross for this stuff. Is not it better to just tell the people we need an "X" amount of money to keep this station on the Air, and then let everyone make up their decision on how much to give? Perhaps, they should say we need 300 person to donate $1000 each this year (I think they said it, but it was in fine print). Then, those who could afford it let them send the money. If you are prompted to give just for the sake of getting it back or getting more of it, you have missed the whole idea why the good Lord died for all of us on the cross. God does not print dollars. This duties was given to the Federal Government. You get dollars by working for it. You donate money for the goodness of your heart, not because you want to get rich. Yes, God wants you to prosper, but by working hard and honestly earning your living. Thank you for your donation.

Elul

Elul is a word found in the Bible. Elul, in Arabic or Hebrew, means the month of September.

Cat's Claw

Cat's claw is an anti-inflammatory herb that is commonly recommended by herbalists for the management of osteoarthritis.

Colonoscopy Procedure: What to Expect

Many people are advised to undergo a colonoscopy procedure. This test includes the placement of a flexible tube with a camera for the physician to scan the large intestine (the colon) and detect if any tumor growth (malignant or benign) is present. The physician is then able to remove any polyp encountered on the surface of the colon and send it for pathological testing. The patient has to clear his system by taking a laxative the day before the procedure. In addition, no solid foods or colored liquids are allowed the day prior to the test. On the day of the test, after normal checking in, the patient is escorted to a divide in a big hall separated by blinds from other divides. The patient will be asked to get undressed, put a hospital gown on, and lay on a hospital bed covered with sheets. The nurse comes in and take vital signs on the patient. Then the nurse asks the patients questions while she/he enters them in a laptop computer. The questions are related to previous health, surgical, and family history. A catheter is then placed in one of the hand's vein (this can be a bit uncomfortable, but really is not bad). Then they will start giving the patient intravenous fluids through this catheter. The colonoscopist and the anesthesiologist visit with the patient and make sure everything is okay. The patient is then rolled into the test room where the instrument is located. The room temperature there is always kept a bit on the cold side. After a casual chat with the nurses, an oxygen liner in placed on the nostrils to help the patient breath during the anaesthesia. They ask the patient to role on his/her left side and bend his knee upwards. Anaesthesia is then given intravenously, and as the patient watches the nurse giving him the anesthesia injection, the next thing he remembers is waking up in the big hall again. They make sure that the patient passes gas and burbs before they give him something to drink. Afterward, a family member comes in to drive the patient home. The physician comes in and explain what occurred during the test and if there were any polyps removed. The patient gets dressed and a nurse aid escorts him out the facility to the car waiting for him up front. The first 24 hours following the procedure, the patient should introduce foods slowly in his system; no big meals or "seedy" foods, and NOT TO DRIVE OR MAKE IMPORTANT DECISIONS. The patient is instructed to call his physician if any bleeding or unusual discomfort occurs (not common). The worst thing about this test is the prep given the day before the procedure. But yet, even that it is not that bad. People with family history of colon cancer, blood in the stool, or over 50 years old should undergo this test. Contact your primary care physician if you have any concerns of taking it. It is a great test to have available for the public. It is simple to do, almost no discomfort at all, and it is truly a life saver. You won't feel a thing. Go do it.

Christian Positive Thinking

The same part of the brain that occupies us with worry and negative thoughts is the one that helps us meditate. Although none of us, except for the monks, is able to read the Bible the whole day, meditating on what we already read in the Bible the whole day keeps our mind clear, sharp, and fully in communication with God. Negative thoughts may occasionally come and go; just ignore them. Remember, there is an eternal war between the goods and the evils, between the light and the darkness, between choosing to do the right thing or the wrong act. As a person, you have to choose on what side you are. A lukewarm person is always on the wrong side. When we meditate on the Bible, we make the princesses of darkness extremely mad at us. We become even more so the subject of their attacks. When we occupy our mind with positive thoughts, all our actions become positive. Not only that, but we develop clarity in our actions. This lead to a prosperous and happy life. The Lord said in so many ways that we should pray without ceasing, or to meditate. And, He also invited us to be on His side, because the weight He places on us is light. The source of Light does not have in Him any darkness. Be part of it and change yourself and the world around you. It is never too late. It is not even the 11th hour yet.

Valerian and Hops

Valerian and hops combination has been shown repeatedly effective in improving the sleep quality and the sleep latency for those who suffer from insomnia.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a disease that has a huge economical impact. One area of misdiagnosis is that the failure of physicians to look "outside the box". Certain slow growing cancers can mimic the symptoms of CFS, and unless the physician does a thorough evaluation of the patients, these cancers may be missed.

Retrovirus and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

A recent study reported a possible link between chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and a retrovirus known as XMRV. However, more recent works from the NIH, the FDA, and the CDC failed to show such link. Expert virologists believe that the link between XMRV and CFS was caused by a "contamination" of the samples with the virus.

AD/HD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD) is a disorder commonly associated with "bad parenting" or "eating the wrong foods". Recent research in this field link AD/HD with genetic disposition. The genetics profile of AD/HD individuals has similarities with those who suffer from autism and schizophrenia.

What is PEG 3350?

PEG 3350 is a synthetic polymer. The "PEG" symbol stands for polyethelene glycol. The "3350" is for its average molecular weight. PEG 3350 has a very high affinity to water and it is not absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Because of this effect, PEG 3350 is commonly found in "colon preps" used before colonoscopy procedures. It does not have a strong taste, and drinking solutions of PEG 3350 in water are found acceptable by most people. Severe diarrhea ensues after consuming PEG 3350 solutions.

Niacin

Niacin, a B vitamin, is commonly prescribed to patients with high blood lipid profile. It is effective in reducing blood cholesterol level among other benefits. It does cause flushing, however, studies have shown that this minor side effect subsides over time. Other concerns with using niacin are interactions with medications taken for hypertension and diabetes drugs. Its flushing effect, in part, is responsible for a reduction in blood pressure. Other side effects of its use are a decrease in platelets count and a false-positive test for billirubin (i.e., indicates that billirubin level is high where in fact it is not). Do not take niacin with alcohol. Consult with your physician or pharmacist before taking niacin as it does have multiple interactions with many drugs.

Lung Cancer Detection

CT scan is perhaps the test to be used for detecting lung cancer. A new blood test has been available in the US and now is in Europe can detect lung cancer in its earlier stage when it is still manageable. The test is known as EarlyCDT-Lung (Oncoimmune).

Pyrethrin

Pyrethrin is used to kill mosquitoes. In Florida, this insecticide is being sprayed to kill mosquitoes suspected of carrying the vector for West Nile Virus. According to officials, one man was hospitalized and another already died from this disease.

A Test for Type 2 Diabetes

Scientists have developed a new test to detect diabetes (Type 2) 10 years earlier before its development. This test is also capable in differentiating between patients that could have complications once they have developed the disease.

Happy Birthday

Today is my birthday. Happy birthday to me.

Blogs Meetup

Recently, bloggers with blogs pertaining to dads gathered in a "national" meeting to discuss the topic of "being a dad". I wonder if those of us in the Alternative and Complementary blogs would like to do the same. If you read this post, please respond to my call for a "national" meeting of us, the CAM bloggers (or all who are interested in this area), somewhere in the USA. I propose Boston, Massachusetts to be the site for our first meeting. Let us Plan for a meeting in June of 2011. Please let me know by leaving me a comment on this post. If there is enough interest, perhaps we could initiate a Planning Committee to oversee this meeting.

L-Arginine and Platelets

Platelets are important for blood coagulation. L-Arginine, an amino acid, affects platelets in various ways. It inhibits their aggregation and adhesion to each other, thus prevents the formation of blood clots. Moreover, it decreases the total platelets count. L-Arginine acts similar to aspirin in that fashion.

L-Arginine

L-Arginine is an amino acid that is converted in the body tho nitric oxide (NO). Nitric oxide is a potent vasodilator which causes a drop in blood pressure. NO also helps men with erectile dysfunction by improving the blood flow to the area. Other important functions of NO are in natural immunity and respiratory distress. NO is also thought to help with memory function. A noted side effect of arginine is a drop in the platelets count. If this occurs, stop taking arginine and consult with your physician.

H1N1 Vaccine: Have You Been Feeling Sleepy Recently?

Excessive fatigue and sleepy daylight feeling, also know as narcolepsy, has been thought to be associated with the H1N1 swine flu virus vaccination. In Europe, 80 cases of narcolepsy have been identified so far in persons who received the vaccine. European health authorities deny any link between the vaccine and the development of narcolepsy.

Hormone Replacement Therapy

It is well known that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is associated with the development of breast cancer in women. However, what is not widely known is the fact that the HRT does not really cause breast cancer, but rather it accelerates its appearance. In other words, the women who used HRT were simply getting breast cancer much earlier had they not been using it in the first place. Interestingly enough, nearly a drop of 10% in breast cancer incidents was observed in Canada following the decline in the use of HRT. Similar results have been reported from many westernized countries.

St. John Wort and AIDS Medications

St. John Wort, the popular herbal formula for depression, can increase the metabolism of anti-AIDS medications, thus rendering them useless. Patients who are on AIDS medications should refrain from taking St. John Wort, unless a physician has advised otherwise. The way St. John Wort does this effect is by enhancing the liver enzymes responsible for metabolizing drugs in general.

HIV/AIDS: An Update

The number of HIV positive cases in the United States could be as high as 1.5 million infected individuals. Unfortunately, recent data indicate that many of them do not know they have HIV. The percentage of people who have HIV and are unaware of it is 44% nationwide. In some areas of the country, this percentage is estimated to be higher than 50% (e.g., in Chicago, the percentage is 53%). Infected individuals who are unaware of their infection transmit the virus to healthy individuals, thus widening the problem of HIV/AIDS in this country.

10.10.10

This year, the 10th of October will be on Sunday. It has a very interesting sequence: 10.10.10.

How Does Ginkgo biloba Work?

Ginkgo biloba is a very ancient old plant. The Ginkgo tree has been on the planet for over 2 million years. Its leaves extract is commonly used for enhancing memory. Studies have shown that Ginkgo "upregulates" (i.e., elevates, intensifies, and makes more of) many genes in two areas of the brain that are responsible for memory, the cortex and the hypocampus. In these studies the use of Ginkgo elevated one gene in the hypocampus and nine genes in the cortex, all are responsible or involved in neuroprotection and memory enhancement. Ginkgo biloba also contains antioxidants that are helpful as free radical scavengers (protect brain cells from dying). Free radicals are responsible for cellular death, and scavenging them protect cells from dying or aging. The most common use of Ginkgo biloba extract is for enhancing short term memory. Components in Ginkgo can intensify the effect of anticoagulants. Consult with your doctor before taking Ginkgo as it could result in spontaneous bleeding or death if taken together with blood-thinning agents (warfarin or aspirin).

Trouble

"Never trouble trouble until trouble troubles you." Anonymous

The Pope is Visiting The United Kingdom

Pope Benedict the 16th is visiting Britain. This may not be a very important news unless it is a first for a Pope to visit the United Kingdom for over 500 years.

The Origin of AIDS Virus: Where Did It Come From?

New research in this field has confirmed that the virus causing AIDS, or HIV, has originated from SIV-the virus causing similar infection in African monkeys, but in a much milder manner. The SIV is indeed very old virus, and is believed to be at least 32,000 years old or may be as old as 75,000 years. Human contact with monkeys has permitted the transfer of SIV to human, which resulted in the virus mutation into its new form, the HIV.

Wisdom: Expectations and anticipations

"What we anticipate seldom occurs; what we least expect generally happens." Benjamin Disraeli

Attitude of Clinicians Is For The Birds

It is without a doubt that clinicians nowadays hate to spend the time to really find out about the patient's conditions. While visiting a clinic today for an "abnormal test" I had recently, the PA (Physician Assistant) did not even bother to check a condition that I had for at least two weeks now, even though I repeatedly stated my discomfort and concern about it. Because my condition is worsening by the day, I m going to visit tomorrow another clinic to specifically address this issue. They say that the current health care is expensive. No wonder why! If each one of us has to visit several clinicians to get them to work, the cost of treatment is going to be several folds higher than what it should be. If I did that in my own profession I would have been fired long time ago. In my opinion medical schools should start training their students how to care for their patients rather than teaching them how to avoid treating their patients.

PSA IS DECLARED USELESS

Very recent clinical reports on PSA test (Prostate Specific Antigen) declared the test to be worthless. According to these reports, the PSA test does not reduce the number of prostate cancer cases nor the number of deaths from prostate cancer. Moreover, the test subjects the patients to unnecessary further diagnostic tests that carry the risk of infections or even impotence.

6C Homeopathic Preparation

A 6C homeopathic preparation is made by taking one part of the herbal extract and diluting it with 9 parts of alcohol. Then, one part of the resulting solution is mixed with another 9 parts of alcohol. This is repeated four more times. During the preparation, the homeopathic doctor shake the preparation to increase its "healing energy". The more diluted the preparation is the more powerful it is in its action.

New Trend in Health Care

A new trend in health care is emerging. Physicians are now relying heavily on medical laboratory tests to make a decision on patient's state of health. A new definition of health is emerging. This defines health as "a state whereas all laboratory tests are deemed normal." For all patients who are suffering from unusual symptoms despite of your "normal' laboratory values, YOU ARE NOT DREAMING. Because laboratory values are not necessary you. They are part of you, but not the entire you. This new trend is replacing people by numbers obtained by instruments. There is no need anymore for anyone to go and see a physician. They will not listen to you anyway. They are busy reading your lab results.

Labor Day

Today was the Labor Day in USA. With approximately 15 million Americans are out of work, this day was not a very happy day for many. We hope that by the next Labor Day the economy has reached a point of stability and prosperity. Happy Labor Day.

Bony Structures

The human spine is composed of five regions: Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar, Sacrum, and Coccyx. The Cervical bones are 7, the Thoracic bones are 12, the Lumber bones are 5, the Sacrum is composed of 4-5 fused bones, while the coccyx is made of 3-4 fused bones. The coccyx constitutes the remaining "tail" that human lost during evolution (it is about an inch long). There are 4 major curvatures of the spine: The cervical, the thoracic, the lumbar, and the sacral. Kyphosis or "hunchback" is the result of an exaggerated lumbar curvature. The bony shell of the spine houses the spinal cord and the spinal fluid. Kyphosis occurs gradually with aging and with bad posture. The sacrum and coccyx are also parts of the pelvic girdle, whereas the Thoracic vertebrates are part of the torso "the ribcage". There are 12 ribs in human. Ribs 1-7 are known as true ribs, ribs 8-10 are false ribs, and ribs 11-12 are floating ribs. The center part of the ribcage is a bone known as the sternum. The upper part of the sternum is joined with the clavicles on both sides. In turn, the clavicles are attached to the shoulder girdle with the scapula and the humerus. The humerus forms the elbow with the forearm bones (radius and ulna). In turn, the forearm bones join the carpal bones (8 on each side) to form the wrist. There are 5 metacarpal bones and 14 phalanges in each hand. The feet also have 14 phalanges each, 5 metatarsal bones, and 7 tarsal bones. The tarsal bones are attached to the lower leg bones (fibula and tibia). The knee is located between the femur (the largest and strongest bone in the body) and the lower leg bones. The femur articulates (attaches) to the pelvis. The skull is composed of many bones and is joined with the Cervical bones at C1 vertebrae (the atlas). Top of the skull are the two parietal bones, the sides are made of the temporal bones, the front is where the frontal bone is found, and at the back of the skull the occipital bone is located. The orbits are the eye sockets, the nasal bones, the zygomatic bones (cheeks), and the maxillary bones are found in the anterior part of the skull. The jaw or the mandible is a necessary bone for chewing foods. The masseter muscles (two of them) are said to exert together a force equivalent to 150 pounds every time the jaw is closed while chewing (or biting). No wonder biting is a dangerous thing to do. And lastly, but not the least, the hyoid bone which holds the tongue in place. An interesting fact about the hyoid bone is that it is the only bone in the human body that does not articulate with any other bone. All in all, there are 206 bones in the human body. (I heard some people may have an extra vertebra or two!) And one more thing, the reason human can move is because of the articulations between the bones that are called joints. Without joints, bones and muscles would be useless on their own to make movements. So here you have it, when you dance thank your joints and not your bones or muscles for the dance.

Chronic Lyme Disease

Chronic Lyme Disease (CLD) is a condition that most physicians do not believe it exists. The State of Connecticut, where this disease is prevalent, only 2% of the physicians surveyed treat CLD, 50% do not believe CLD exists, and 48% think that CLD is not a "valid condition" to treat. On the opposite side, most (if not all) Complementary and Alternative Medicine practitioners handle this disease very seriously.

Are You Taking Drugs To Strengthen Your Bones?

Many physicians are now on the bandwagon prescribing the relatively newly commercialized drugs for bone strength. The advertisement are mainly targeted to elderly women, using well-known actresses or "elderly" women in the ads. They tell you not to lay down on your back for a period of time (usually 30 minutes) after taking the dose. Well, it turned out that new research in this area (not widely advertised for an obvious reason, the all-mighty dollar) is pointing toward severe adverse events that are, to say the least, scary. One adverse event states that these drugs increase the likelihood for the person taken them to break their femur (the large leg bone). Of course for some of the very elderly this may be deadly. Other research is pointing out the increase risk of esophageal cancer, a very painful cancer that has extremely poor prognosis. Talk to your physician about these risks. Tell them that YOU KNOW these bad scary adverse effects of these drugs. (Do not expect your physician is going to tell you to stop taking them.) When we get older, we all have fragile bones, and the reason we have fragile bones is not because we do not have enough of these drugs in our system. It is simply that we have to eat a much better balanced diet, eat fruits and vegetables, drink non-homogenized milk, and exercise (walking). Eating your apple or spinach would not break your femur nor give you esophageal cancer.

Alcohol and Breast Cancer

Recent findings from the National Institutes of Health (NIH)/National Cancer Institute indicated that women who drink alcohol are at a significantly higher risk of developing invasive lobular carcinoma.

Some Calm Reflections on Summer 2010

This summer is almost over, at least from the point of view of vacations. The kids are going back to school this Wednesday (August 25), that's why you see a lot of parents smiling. This summer was a hot one, but not hotter than the one before it. I actually thought it was a bit cooler this year, may be perhaps I finally fixed my broken air-conditioning in my 18 years old car (I had driven this car for the last four years without air-conditioning). There were less cars on the roads and fewer school buses. I am not looking forward to drive behind one of them at all. I usually budget an extra 10 minutes for my trip to work just in case I get stuck behind a school bus (or two). The summer was a dry one; we did not get as much rain as we wanted, but it poured today for at least 15 minutes. I hope we get more of those passing clouds daily. We could not afford a family vacation this summer, but Holly Springs (NC) was as beautiful as ever and I did not mind it to stay home. Home Sweet Home, Holly Springs, North Carolina, I am really blessed to be living here.

Prostate Cancer

Men whose brothers have already developed prostate cancer are at a higher risk of developing the disease according to new research done at the National Research Institutes (NIH). Frequent screening of those individuals is highly recommended.

West Nile Virus

The West Nile Virus has been detected in mosquitoes and birds in the greater Chicago area, Newton (Massachusetts), and San Bernardino County (California). In the latter, the virus has already infected one woman.

The Decline in the Economy Appears Flat?

The last three years (June 30, 2007 to June 30, 2010), the total accumulations remained unchanged, however that corresponds to a decline in economy since additions are being made to the total to maintain its "flatness". In other words, anything added is consumed by the system to maintain the status quo.

Suddenly My Life Changed

Life does throw at you curves from time to time. "Black Swans" do exist, and they can affect individuals, families, nations, or the entire world. No one can predict "Black Swans" in your life. No statistics, no previous history, no similar past events, nor your own instinct can tell you they are coming. "Black Swans" events are intended to divert your life permanently. The 9/11 event in the United States was a "Black Swan". No one saw it coming. Yet, it affected everyone's life in the United States and the entire world. If you do not believe me, try to pass the airport security without taking off your shoes; good luck! Actually, the last time I was at the airport I had to take off my shoes, belt, watch, and everything was in my pockets. Then I was passed through the x-ray machine. Actually, come to think about it, it was not that unpleasant. There is an excellent book written on this subject called "The Black Swan" by Nassim Nicholas Taleb. I highly recommend reading it. A Lebanese descendant, Talib now calls New York home.

Panax Ginseng As a Currency?

Countries deal with real currency when it comes to economical interchange among them. Don't tell that to North Korea! The Dear Leader has proposed to the Czech Republic to pay them back on an old military loan in Panax ginseng, a 20-ton of it. The North Koreans owe the Czech Republic some $10 million in debt and they offered to pay back this loan in ginseng roots (worth of half a million dollars). Of course Czechoslovakia declined the offer. I guess it will take the Czech Republic people about 15 years to consume this much ginseng in their tea. P. ginseng is a very revered herb around the world, especially in Asia. Ginseng possesses tonic and immune stimulating activities among many other important effects.

Miracles

Miracles are out of ordinary events. Things that make people puzzle. Acts that have no explanation to them. Occurrences that people wonder how could that happen; it is impossible. Or, is it? Everything in life can happen. There are certain things that occur rarely, thus not everyone is familiar with them. If unfamiliar person encounters them, then there are labeled as "miracles". Miracles are just events that are ordinary, however the probability of their occurrence is minuscule, and they still occur on their own. Physicians are all aware of something called in medicine as "spontaneous healing". The spontaneity of healing is just that it occurs on its own, but rarely. Cancer, headaches, infections, heart disease, and others can all disappear on their own, in very rare cases. Magicians, miracle workers, TV preachers, and charlatans pretend that they are exercising certain power over matter, in particular when it comes to healing the body or the mind. Most of these so-called "healings" occur when one does not know the exact nature of the illness; it is simply stated by often biased, spiritually "drunk" individuals. Never under-estimate the power of suggestion over the body and the mind. So called maladies are in fact borderline hallucination of some psychosomatic disturbances the person has. With the power of suggestion from the "healer", the person becomes filled with the "spirit" of the moment and begins shouting and proclaiming a "miracle" has happened. Whereas in fact what just happened is a state of hallucination imposed by the power of prayers and the immediate environment the person is in. I am still waiting for one of those healers to grow a new limb for someone who had lost one. Perhaps a new hand or a foot would do. Alas! I am still waiting. Those who are portraying such miracles in the name of God are false witnesses to the power of the Almighty. He and He alone can heal the broken hearts. I do not think God is in the business of healing the body. He alone has that power of healing anything. He has given this power to the Lord Jesus Christ. The Lord transferred the same power to his immediate disciples. And, that where the end of that era occurred. It had a purpose in mind. It was meant to attract people to God through Christ. It does not exist anymore. We have everything on this planet to heal ourselves. Artificial limbs are true miracles that clinical scientists have invented to help the amputees. I am hoping for more miracles to happen in the future when man begins to realize that God has already provided us with the biggest miracle of all, our brain. Let us use it and create more new "miracles," and stop being false witnesses to God. Amen.

The Pope Bizzar Behavior

The Pope was not to be found around yesterday. His people were looking for him as he missed the midday mass and prayers. I guess they finally found him later and were told that he was "praying" in the forest surrounding the Vatican. I hope his prayers were answered!

Mushrooms

Mushrooms are very rich in micro-nutrients such as minerals. Many of them contain substances that enhance the immune system, protect against tumor development, and kill cancer cells.

I Am A CAPITALIST

I had this dream yesterday. Dream: [I am a capitalist. It is the only system that makes any sense. It matches human beings' greed and selfishness. As most people do, we care about a small pimple shinning red on our nose than the thousands of people dying from hunger in Africa. It is just the sad nature of being human. As a capitalist, our aim is to make items for sales. Make items that cost 3 cents each and sell them at a unit price of $3,000. There will be people to buy it. Make it so wanted that every greedy person out there would WANT to have it. I am a capitalist and I boast of being one. Make as money as I can. Smoke cigars and drink expensive wines. Perhaps I'll have my own radio talk show and broadcast it to the entire universe and tell everybody how wonderful I am, how rich I am, and how smart I am. I am a capitalist. People whom I hire should be thankful for working for a capitalist like me. I will preach that too much taxes on me would hurt the nation. I will tell people if I pay too much taxes I am going to stop hiring "poor" people, stop being inventive, and most of all I am going to complain about it three hours a day on my radio show. I am a capitalist. I will have no respect to anyone who believe differently than I do. I will call them names, laugh my heart out, and most of all tell them how rich I am. Yes, I am a capitalist. I did not go to college, but I make millions just talking to you for three hours daily on the radio. I am selling you my belief of being a capitalist. What a wonderful life. I will bombard you with my belief and rain on you all common decencies so that if you agree with me, and who would not, then you think how right I am about everything. I am a capitalist. I am almost 99.97% right all the time. So please do not argue with me. And yes, for you common people out there, if you want to have money like I do, why don't you work as hard as I am? I only live in a multimillion dollar house, drive the most expensive cars, buy the best shoes and cloths, and smoke expensive cigars. If you do not agree with me politically or socially then you are wrong, because I am always right. As a matter of fact I can prove it to you that I am always right because I am a Christian. I believe in God and Christ as a Savior. I am a Capitalist.] Dream ended. Off to work I go. Where is my 15-year old second-hand bicycle? Another flat tire! How am I going to get to work? Who is going to pay my rent? I wish I were a Capitalist!

George Soros Says

"In hard time the bad disappears and the good becomes better" George Soros

H1N1 in India

The Swine Flu is back. It is currently in India where close to 150 cases have been identified so far. Are we going to see a new wave of the H1N1 infection? Not if we are better prepared today than last time. I hope so.

Legionnaire's Disease in Michigan

So far, 6 people have been diagnosed with Legionnaire's Disease in Harrison Township, Michigan. The outbreak is located at the National Guard Airbase located in that town. According to reports from Michigan, officials there have already contacted the CDC to lend their help with this issue. The first time this disease occurred many years ago and not at this location was due to the bacteria being able to travel through the air-conditioning system.

Fructose and Pancreatic Cancer

Population statistics indicated that high-fructose corn syrup use in the United States has increased by 1000% in just a 20-year span (1970 to 1990). A new study from UCLA demonstrated that pancreatic cancer cells handled fructose in a more efficient way than they consumed glucose, and thus they were better able to thrive on fructose presence and use it as a fuel.

Number of Doctor Visits

Since April of 1994 I have had 49 doctor visits in total. That is an average of approximately 3 doctor visits per year. What is interesting was that I have never had a doctor visit in November! The highest number of visits was recorded in December (9 out of 49; 18.4%). The lowest next number of visits after November was in January (1 out of 49; 2%). The chart summarizes all the visits for the last 16 years. There was a steady decline in the number of visits from March to November. Another trend was observed earlier during the year where a sharp increase in the number of visits occurred between January and March.

One Fruit A Day Keeps the Doctor Away

Eat at least one fruit daily (apples are fine, but other fruits are excellent too). I love oranges, grapes, grapefruits, berries (all kinds), apricots, and bananas. Eat often and eat plenty if you can. I think my grandma's secret long life (God bless her, she is 97 this year) is that she ate fruits all her life. She still has very sharp mind and enjoys chatting with her friends. Oh, yes! She loves to eat oranges.

Just Predictions for CNN Coming Up Actions

This November when Larry king leaves his program, John King will take over. Jessica Yellin will take over John King's show (JK USA; CNN). I hope my predictions are correct. Can't I dream? Please!

A List of the Governors of Massachusetts with Years Served (up to 2010)

Just click on the above picture to read their names.

Botanical Medicine

Botanical medicine is defined as the science and practice of using botanicals in the management of disease states. Botanical medicine is an integral part of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). CAM practitioners often use botanicals along with other modalities to manage illnesses. Protocols are often developed by integrative medicine physicians include botanicals that complement conventional treatments for treating patients. The book above is available at amazon.com.

Richard Cardinal Cushing (Massachusetts): A Portrait

A Cute Cat

Middle-Eastern Dishes

Fruits Are Healthy

Eat a variety of fruits daily (pictures above are for blueberries, apricots, and green grapes). Fruits are loaded with antioxidants and nutrients. For healthy living include fruits in your diet. Enjoy.

Images from Boston, Massachusetts (July 23, 2010)

A Syrian Jasmine Tree

This tree produces white flowers with a wonderful aroma. People when they smell the flowers say "may God bless the dead people soul", because its aroma reminds people of being "alive and well".