Post a brief paragraph describing why you chose your Research Topic-
-The Science of Geo-engineering-
My topic of choice was inspired by what I saw in one of our traditional ceremonial prayers- ...7 years ago- the vision: a picture started appearing like a film... and I noticed that the clouds that appeared in the sky were not of mother earth-but man made...,there were increased jets and small airline aircrafts that released white particles and fell like a snow-flakes and over time it continued to fall over every living system, changing the life cycle of plants, animals,oceans, deserts and people became more aware as these flakes fell over their homes...These Zig-Zag lines kept the sun light from penetrating its rays...and the east coast became colder as west was starving for rain...in this vision I heard " Its man made and so are earthquakes and sink-holes do not be afraid and when these things happen as well as other things to come be available to help and offer warmth to those that do not see what is coming"- I did not know what to make of this vision so started to do research and shared it with people...and gently adviced them to store water, food, and basic necessities for a period of 6 months...
After this vision I started to research about what the zig-zag lines meant and the particles that were within it- and the research came to unfold as the science of Geo-engineering and it went further to nano-technology and trans-humanism-, I am not a scientist but was able to understand how the intentional alteration of climate have raised concerns related to politics, policy, governance, and ethics. , what propels scientist to go to extreme and epic measures to begin spaced based and solar engineering approaches is from the fear of the consequences of increased atmospheric C02 and other greenhouse gases... since it exerts a radiative forcing on the climate system by making more difficult for heat to escape to space. Because C02 emissions have climate consequences lasting many thousand years such emissions have been considered to cause climate change on time-scale that are relevant to most human activities..So most of the carbon dioxide removal approaches (CDR) methods have only marginal potential to affect atmospheric CO2 this century....thus, neither solar geo-engineering nor CDR can provide the certain reduction in cutting greenhouse emissions...
-as these climate changes occur- nature and man -made...I recommend that people begin to continue to conduct their own research and to meditate on the information they receive via-meditation or by their own knowledge base- I hope we can all learn that this issue is bigger than us and we can prepare ourselves and others about cutting unnecessary green house emission activities and having at least 6-12 months of food, water, and basic necessities in the event that one has to relocate....
Wednesday, August 13, 2014
Wednesday, August 6, 2014
Vaccinations and Public Health
-Should Parents take a more active role in immunization schedule?-
I would recommend for parents to consult with their children's pediatrician or other health care provider..... to discuss and to build their knowledge base regarding the series of immunizations
..taking an active role takes many forms, each parent can delegate a task to each other to conduct their own research before they have their child vaccinated.
-Would you support making vaccination program -obligatory?
As a healthcare provider I am required by law to have all immunizations updated or my license to practice is not-reactivated. Other professionals that work in the same medical facility are also required to receive vaccinations but they have the option to wear a mask all year round or take the vaccination series. In the state of New York you are not employed in any medical facility without the vaccination series...
Do I support the law mandated approach? Some of the side effects activate other medical issues such as existing allergies, asthma, autoimmune disorders...ect., so if a person with a delicate immune-constitution decides to work in a facility that is mandated by the state to receive yearly vaccinations, perhaps that is not the environment to work in..
If it becomes a federal law- that can become a political issue....
I would recommend for parents to consult with their children's pediatrician or other health care provider..... to discuss and to build their knowledge base regarding the series of immunizations
..taking an active role takes many forms, each parent can delegate a task to each other to conduct their own research before they have their child vaccinated.
-Would you support making vaccination program -obligatory?
As a healthcare provider I am required by law to have all immunizations updated or my license to practice is not-reactivated. Other professionals that work in the same medical facility are also required to receive vaccinations but they have the option to wear a mask all year round or take the vaccination series. In the state of New York you are not employed in any medical facility without the vaccination series...
Do I support the law mandated approach? Some of the side effects activate other medical issues such as existing allergies, asthma, autoimmune disorders...ect., so if a person with a delicate immune-constitution decides to work in a facility that is mandated by the state to receive yearly vaccinations, perhaps that is not the environment to work in..
If it becomes a federal law- that can become a political issue....
Week 12 Cell biology and Radioactivity
-Post your thoughts on one of our class discussion-
It was interesting to note that over the course of this month a few doctor's who were infected with the Ebola virus- arrived from West Africa and were transferred to a Atlanta hospital -a facility that is regulated and monitored by the CDC- the doctors were placed in a tight control setting where the negative air pressure keeps the virus contained.. and are receiving vaccines that remain off the market..
After discussing the" No Market: Scientists Struggle t make Ebola Vaccines, treatments," I struggled with the fact that the people in Africa are receiving the bare minimum of care... Ebola is unpredictable and I often wonder if its being utilized again for other reasons...such as population control...if that was not the case ....then ..why would they not receive the same treatment like the doctors that were transferred to the United States? I believe that this is a bigger issue. Now.. the interesting thing to keep track of is the prognosis and treatment outcomes for the doctors in Atlanta...if they recover....you will have to wonder as well....WHY NOT SAVE OTHERS?
_ Impression on cell biology link-
The Virtual Cell provided the visual animation and an overview of the cell..it can be utilized as an educational tool in most languages...
It was interesting to note that over the course of this month a few doctor's who were infected with the Ebola virus- arrived from West Africa and were transferred to a Atlanta hospital -a facility that is regulated and monitored by the CDC- the doctors were placed in a tight control setting where the negative air pressure keeps the virus contained.. and are receiving vaccines that remain off the market..
After discussing the" No Market: Scientists Struggle t make Ebola Vaccines, treatments," I struggled with the fact that the people in Africa are receiving the bare minimum of care... Ebola is unpredictable and I often wonder if its being utilized again for other reasons...such as population control...if that was not the case ....then ..why would they not receive the same treatment like the doctors that were transferred to the United States? I believe that this is a bigger issue. Now.. the interesting thing to keep track of is the prognosis and treatment outcomes for the doctors in Atlanta...if they recover....you will have to wonder as well....WHY NOT SAVE OTHERS?
_ Impression on cell biology link-
The Virtual Cell provided the visual animation and an overview of the cell..it can be utilized as an educational tool in most languages...
Tuesday, July 29, 2014
The introduction of Bison
The introduction of Bison- post slaughter- era:
-the ghost dance of the 1880s anticipated the reappearance of bison in full life/measure. Bison numbers plummeted from 7o billion to less than a thousand. The math speaks for itself. The broader ecological system is that that the introduction of bison cannot regulate the whole ecosystem by themselves. You see the antelope and deer keep the plant species balanced by their concentration on shrubs and forbs...however, paralleling the history of beef, as the bison market matures, overall damage to vegetation resources....escalate..... however central to present market limitations is the dichotomy between the lower production cost of bison and the three times prices found in market place. The capitalist principle still operates bison have a greater profit margin than cattle...The largest remaining conclusion is to develop the management and marketing pathways that will avoid past mistakes...the ecological and economic potentials provide the impetus to provide the bison a come back pathway...
2- climate emission- control-
After researching and providing presentation in class nothing has changed. In order to stabilize CO2 concentrations at about 450 ppm by 2050 global emission would have to decline by 60 % by 2050.
(Please refer to class presentation material).
-the ghost dance of the 1880s anticipated the reappearance of bison in full life/measure. Bison numbers plummeted from 7o billion to less than a thousand. The math speaks for itself. The broader ecological system is that that the introduction of bison cannot regulate the whole ecosystem by themselves. You see the antelope and deer keep the plant species balanced by their concentration on shrubs and forbs...however, paralleling the history of beef, as the bison market matures, overall damage to vegetation resources....escalate..... however central to present market limitations is the dichotomy between the lower production cost of bison and the three times prices found in market place. The capitalist principle still operates bison have a greater profit margin than cattle...The largest remaining conclusion is to develop the management and marketing pathways that will avoid past mistakes...the ecological and economic potentials provide the impetus to provide the bison a come back pathway...
2- climate emission- control-
After researching and providing presentation in class nothing has changed. In order to stabilize CO2 concentrations at about 450 ppm by 2050 global emission would have to decline by 60 % by 2050.
(Please refer to class presentation material).
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
week 10- Ecosystems and Deep Ecology
"What do you think about the eight-point Deep Ecology Platform"-
It pushes social and ecological systems toward new patterns of production and reproduction...yet, the parameters held in place do not take into account what actually creates mental shifts for outcomes to be actualized.
Perhaps what is not being addressed is the potential fact that despite countless studies about nature/environment /global warming ects.. does not prompt law makers to gain insight for better environmental standards and this could be related to a condition called, " lack of conscious awareness," or the " lack to have insight into something greater than the core self," and it goes beyond the spectrum of narcissistic spectrum disorders.
In other words, perhaps these folks are undiagnosed sociopaths/and psychopaths ( that is the definition in DSM-V) ...they cannot gain insight in the internal structures of their psyche landscape because they lack the brain mechanisms to do so.............which is a genetic composition........how can one expect them to gain awareness> they are however, interested about the course of how the environment and those in it are monitored/ utilized/ and discarded.......
It would make sense.... a human being that does not have the capacity to have insight......has brain related deficits...this is found in the literature...in brain scans....it could just be that these folks do not have the apparatus to integrate data....its like forcing a blind man to see.............so the eight point ecology platform works with humans that have the capacity to have a sense of building internal insight....yet other variables can be addressed in terms of what forum of individuals are making the ultimate choices regarding outcome analysis.
" Can you explain why Ecosystems are both strong and fragile"
There are ancient feedback systems that regulate the state of environmental homeostasis on this planet.... and when one of these systems is shifted due external non-nature derived demands, it throws the balance out of place... Predictability and stability in the ecosystem are due to be threated by external changes created by man-made events which have unintended and vital consequences....example- Geo-engineering....working against the inevitable....
" How would you assess the end goals of Social Ecology"
The contributions of radical activists- end goals- include and not limited to including well being and health, social justice, and fostering mutual relationships, incorporating personal meaning, organizational learning- the overall goal- addressing the inherent rights of nature to be recognized and respected...AGAIN TO GAIN ECOLOGICAL INSIGHT- HUMANS NEED TO HAVE THAT CAPACITY.....and they in turn can support the process .....and not rely on humans that are unable to have the ability to have insight!!!!
-great attempt , if no sense of mindfulness skills or spirituality is incorporated with nature , perhaps other attempts to create this attachment with nature can be synthesized......................the important process in this matter is to first assess and to contextualize which individuals are able to have insight.........
It pushes social and ecological systems toward new patterns of production and reproduction...yet, the parameters held in place do not take into account what actually creates mental shifts for outcomes to be actualized.
Perhaps what is not being addressed is the potential fact that despite countless studies about nature/environment /global warming ects.. does not prompt law makers to gain insight for better environmental standards and this could be related to a condition called, " lack of conscious awareness," or the " lack to have insight into something greater than the core self," and it goes beyond the spectrum of narcissistic spectrum disorders.
In other words, perhaps these folks are undiagnosed sociopaths/and psychopaths ( that is the definition in DSM-V) ...they cannot gain insight in the internal structures of their psyche landscape because they lack the brain mechanisms to do so.............which is a genetic composition........how can one expect them to gain awareness> they are however, interested about the course of how the environment and those in it are monitored/ utilized/ and discarded.......
It would make sense.... a human being that does not have the capacity to have insight......has brain related deficits...this is found in the literature...in brain scans....it could just be that these folks do not have the apparatus to integrate data....its like forcing a blind man to see.............so the eight point ecology platform works with humans that have the capacity to have a sense of building internal insight....yet other variables can be addressed in terms of what forum of individuals are making the ultimate choices regarding outcome analysis.
" Can you explain why Ecosystems are both strong and fragile"
There are ancient feedback systems that regulate the state of environmental homeostasis on this planet.... and when one of these systems is shifted due external non-nature derived demands, it throws the balance out of place... Predictability and stability in the ecosystem are due to be threated by external changes created by man-made events which have unintended and vital consequences....example- Geo-engineering....working against the inevitable....
" How would you assess the end goals of Social Ecology"
The contributions of radical activists- end goals- include and not limited to including well being and health, social justice, and fostering mutual relationships, incorporating personal meaning, organizational learning- the overall goal- addressing the inherent rights of nature to be recognized and respected...AGAIN TO GAIN ECOLOGICAL INSIGHT- HUMANS NEED TO HAVE THAT CAPACITY.....and they in turn can support the process .....and not rely on humans that are unable to have the ability to have insight!!!!
-great attempt , if no sense of mindfulness skills or spirituality is incorporated with nature , perhaps other attempts to create this attachment with nature can be synthesized......................the important process in this matter is to first assess and to contextualize which individuals are able to have insight.........
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
Biology Week 9: Cell Biology: HIV and AIDS
" How do you feel about western approaches to HIV/AIDS?"
-It is a work in progress........................................................................
-The human immunodeficiency virus is of the lentivirinae sub-family of retroviruses. There have been two strains of HIV identified: HIV-1 ( in the US) which binds to CD4 receptors and HIV-2 (found in Africa).
-Ongoing antiretroviral clinical trials are charged with the task of determining: -when to initiate antiretroviral therapy,- whether monotherapy or combination therapy is more effective,- when to change antiretroviral therapy.
The antiretroviral therapy is targeted at different steps in the replication cycle so diagnosis and testing phases are vital. The use of AZT have severe adverse effects on women with early on infection. Headaches, nausea, and malaise are the main chief complaint. AZT and related treatments target the bone marrow to prevent opportunistic infections. Most countries provide routine testing for pregnant women presenting at STD clinics. HIV prevention initiatives have been successful in reducing HIV infections within health care settings. However, the concern is about populations that are not covered by insurance, access to treatment and care remains an obstacle for many people. The focus is on cost effective and sustainable treatment to specific groups that are at high risk.
TCM treatment: it is utilized to enhance treatment protocols that are often harsh on the immune system. An adjunct to the use of needles is moxibustion which has a deeply penetrating effect which can locally sooth surrounding tissue. Herbal formulations are also recommended. Herbal decoctions are prepared to support immune function and decrease side effects.
-2) Ecophilosophy,Ecosophy and the Deep Ecology Movement:
The mission of Ecophilosophy is to "explore a diversity of perspectives on human nature contexts and interrelationships," Ecological harmony which takes into account a comprehensive view of human and individual experience. This movement has a philosophy tied to nature and attempts to incorporate diversity at subsequent levels, which include and not limited to policies and social justice. The Platform Principles of the Deep Ecology Movement are to assist the process of self-realization for all beings. Its a movement with potential outcomes.
-It is a work in progress........................................................................
-The human immunodeficiency virus is of the lentivirinae sub-family of retroviruses. There have been two strains of HIV identified: HIV-1 ( in the US) which binds to CD4 receptors and HIV-2 (found in Africa).
-Ongoing antiretroviral clinical trials are charged with the task of determining: -when to initiate antiretroviral therapy,- whether monotherapy or combination therapy is more effective,- when to change antiretroviral therapy.
The antiretroviral therapy is targeted at different steps in the replication cycle so diagnosis and testing phases are vital. The use of AZT have severe adverse effects on women with early on infection. Headaches, nausea, and malaise are the main chief complaint. AZT and related treatments target the bone marrow to prevent opportunistic infections. Most countries provide routine testing for pregnant women presenting at STD clinics. HIV prevention initiatives have been successful in reducing HIV infections within health care settings. However, the concern is about populations that are not covered by insurance, access to treatment and care remains an obstacle for many people. The focus is on cost effective and sustainable treatment to specific groups that are at high risk.
TCM treatment: it is utilized to enhance treatment protocols that are often harsh on the immune system. An adjunct to the use of needles is moxibustion which has a deeply penetrating effect which can locally sooth surrounding tissue. Herbal formulations are also recommended. Herbal decoctions are prepared to support immune function and decrease side effects.
-2) Ecophilosophy,Ecosophy and the Deep Ecology Movement:
The mission of Ecophilosophy is to "explore a diversity of perspectives on human nature contexts and interrelationships," Ecological harmony which takes into account a comprehensive view of human and individual experience. This movement has a philosophy tied to nature and attempts to incorporate diversity at subsequent levels, which include and not limited to policies and social justice. The Platform Principles of the Deep Ecology Movement are to assist the process of self-realization for all beings. Its a movement with potential outcomes.
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
week 8 field trip
Wed- Picked up a new work rotation and ordered sushi ....never gets cold...rest....an organic experience.
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Week 7 : TCM and Western approach to understanding cancer diagnosis and treatment
1. How sophisticated is our understanding of cancer?
As a former oncology nurse....the understanding of cancer is sophisticated in the area of molecular research r/t the following current research and treatment modalities:
Western model for what causes cancer: The prevailing model for cancer development is that mutations in genes for tumor suppressors and oncogenes lead to cancer. In addition, many viruses infect humans only a few viruses are known to promote human cancer. These include both DNA viruses and retroviruses a type of RNA virus.
TX focus: Direct annihilation of the cancer cells using aggressive therapies.
From a molecular perspective cancer compromises at least 100 different diseases and all cancer cells share one characteristic: identified abnormal cells in which the processes regulating normal cell division are disrupted. These changes are often a result of inherited mutations or acquired via environmental factors. Cancer results from a series of molecular events that alter the normal properties of cells. These altered cells divide and grow in the presence of signals that normally inhibit cell growth. As these cells grow they develop new characteristics, including changes in cell structure, decreased cell adhesion, and production of new enzymes. Its cell progeny divide and grow which eventually invade other tissues. Only a small number of approx. 35,000 genes in the human genome have been associated with cancer. These malfunctioning genes are known as proto-oncogenes, producing products that normally enhance cell division or inhibit normal cell death. The mutated forms of these genes are called oncogenes. Another group called tumor suppressors make proteins that normally prevent cell division or cause cell death. The third group contain DNA repair genes which help prevent mutations that lead to cancer.
Cancer cells do not stop dividing so research attempts to understand what stops a normal cell from dividing? In terms of cell division normal cells differ from cancer cells in at least four ways-
1- normal cells require external growth factor to divide. When synthesis of these growth factors is inhibited by normal cell regulation the cells stop dividing. Cancer cells have lost the need for positive growth factors so they divide whether or not these factors are present.
2- Normal cells show contact inhibition; that is, they respond to contact with other cells by ceasing cell division. This characteristic is lost in cancer cells which continue to grow after they touch other cells which continue to grow after they touch other cells causing a large mass of cells to form.
3- Normal cells age and die- and are replaced in a controlled and orderly manner by new cells. Apoptosis is the normal programmed death of cells. Telomerase is activated in cancer cells allowing an unlimited of cell division...
4-Normal cells cease to divide and die when there is DNA damage or when cell division is abnormal. Cancer cells continue to divide even when there is a large amount of damage to DNA or when the cells are abnormal.
Detection and DX:
-Imaging techniques, MRI, X-rays, CT, ultrasound, endoscopy to biopsy tissue to be sent to a pathologist= which then looks for abnormalities in the cells in terms of their shape, size, structure, borders of tumors, and developmental stage of tumor, diagnosis can involve removal and examination of lymph nodes to determine whether the cancer cells have spread.
-tumor markers
Tx: Treatment depends on the type of cancer, its location and state of advancement.
1-surgery- remove solid tumors
2-radiation- kills cancer cells with high energy rays targeted directly to the tumor damaging the DNA ad preventing its replication.
3-Chemotherapy- drugs are toxic compounds that target rapidly growing cells. Newer drugs target signal transduction pathways such as receptors, growth factors or kinases. Examples of Drugs that enhance immune system and work with hormonal system such as : Tamoxifen, Raloxifen, spindle inhibitors, endostantin, angiostatin, interluken 2, alpha interferon, Herceptin.
4- Hormones therapy- some cancer cells require hormones for growth so drugs that block the activity of the hormone are utilized.
5-Chemoimmunotherapy- attaches chemotherapy drugs to antibodies that are specific for cancer cells.
Prevention:
-Cancer appears to result from a combination of genetic mutations and environmental factors. The National Cancer Institute recommends a diet with large amounts antioxidants and other nutrients that may help to prevent cancer: Vitamin A,C,E, phytochemicals which are found in plants, vegetables , and fruits.
-Screening, genetic testing, and counseling: early DX and TX: detection of BRCA1 and BRCA2- genes associated with early development of breast cancer for women.
2. TCM approach to cancer how does it differ?
TCM approach emphasize the importance of the body-mind communication network. The development of cancer is viewed as a part of the presenting features of a syndrome representing an imbalance of the whole body-mind network. Thus, cancer is a systemic DX from the start and the
rebalance of the body-mind network will be restored and this will help resolve the cancer.
-In TCM herbs are used to enhance innate immunity and in combinations are used to enhance their benefits while reducing their side effects: extracts for anti-cancer therapy include and not limited to: anemarrhena, asphodeloides, atremisia argyi, commiphora myrrha, duchesnea indica, gleditsia sinensis, rubia cordifolia salvia chinensis.. these herbs contain a variety of chemicals that may act synergistically to inhibit tumor cell division, increase tumor cell death , increase the proportion of immune cells within the tumor and increase blood flow through the tumor.
-Acupuncture- an immune modulating effect- is utilized as a technique which modulates neurotransmitters, cytokines, and neuropeptides through electrophysiological changes in the nervous system.
TCM role in cancer supportive care:
-modification of biological response to improve therapeutic gain
-improve psycho-neuro immunological response
-enhancement of sx control
-psychospiritual integration synergistically
TCM cancer tx/prevention-
- appropriate nutrition- the use of green tea and panax ginseng
-sx control- residual tx of residual effects such as fatigue and depression- spleen and stomach qi are supported by the use of appropriate formulas.
-Qi gong and tai chi and awareness meditation which are used to change electromagnetic changes that may represent the flow of qi.
-balancing the 5 elements associated with psycho-spiritual concepts through herbs and acupuncture
As a former oncology nurse....the understanding of cancer is sophisticated in the area of molecular research r/t the following current research and treatment modalities:
Western model for what causes cancer: The prevailing model for cancer development is that mutations in genes for tumor suppressors and oncogenes lead to cancer. In addition, many viruses infect humans only a few viruses are known to promote human cancer. These include both DNA viruses and retroviruses a type of RNA virus.
TX focus: Direct annihilation of the cancer cells using aggressive therapies.
From a molecular perspective cancer compromises at least 100 different diseases and all cancer cells share one characteristic: identified abnormal cells in which the processes regulating normal cell division are disrupted. These changes are often a result of inherited mutations or acquired via environmental factors. Cancer results from a series of molecular events that alter the normal properties of cells. These altered cells divide and grow in the presence of signals that normally inhibit cell growth. As these cells grow they develop new characteristics, including changes in cell structure, decreased cell adhesion, and production of new enzymes. Its cell progeny divide and grow which eventually invade other tissues. Only a small number of approx. 35,000 genes in the human genome have been associated with cancer. These malfunctioning genes are known as proto-oncogenes, producing products that normally enhance cell division or inhibit normal cell death. The mutated forms of these genes are called oncogenes. Another group called tumor suppressors make proteins that normally prevent cell division or cause cell death. The third group contain DNA repair genes which help prevent mutations that lead to cancer.
Cancer cells do not stop dividing so research attempts to understand what stops a normal cell from dividing? In terms of cell division normal cells differ from cancer cells in at least four ways-
1- normal cells require external growth factor to divide. When synthesis of these growth factors is inhibited by normal cell regulation the cells stop dividing. Cancer cells have lost the need for positive growth factors so they divide whether or not these factors are present.
2- Normal cells show contact inhibition; that is, they respond to contact with other cells by ceasing cell division. This characteristic is lost in cancer cells which continue to grow after they touch other cells which continue to grow after they touch other cells causing a large mass of cells to form.
3- Normal cells age and die- and are replaced in a controlled and orderly manner by new cells. Apoptosis is the normal programmed death of cells. Telomerase is activated in cancer cells allowing an unlimited of cell division...
4-Normal cells cease to divide and die when there is DNA damage or when cell division is abnormal. Cancer cells continue to divide even when there is a large amount of damage to DNA or when the cells are abnormal.
Detection and DX:
-Imaging techniques, MRI, X-rays, CT, ultrasound, endoscopy to biopsy tissue to be sent to a pathologist= which then looks for abnormalities in the cells in terms of their shape, size, structure, borders of tumors, and developmental stage of tumor, diagnosis can involve removal and examination of lymph nodes to determine whether the cancer cells have spread.
-tumor markers
Tx: Treatment depends on the type of cancer, its location and state of advancement.
1-surgery- remove solid tumors
2-radiation- kills cancer cells with high energy rays targeted directly to the tumor damaging the DNA ad preventing its replication.
3-Chemotherapy- drugs are toxic compounds that target rapidly growing cells. Newer drugs target signal transduction pathways such as receptors, growth factors or kinases. Examples of Drugs that enhance immune system and work with hormonal system such as : Tamoxifen, Raloxifen, spindle inhibitors, endostantin, angiostatin, interluken 2, alpha interferon, Herceptin.
4- Hormones therapy- some cancer cells require hormones for growth so drugs that block the activity of the hormone are utilized.
5-Chemoimmunotherapy- attaches chemotherapy drugs to antibodies that are specific for cancer cells.
Prevention:
-Cancer appears to result from a combination of genetic mutations and environmental factors. The National Cancer Institute recommends a diet with large amounts antioxidants and other nutrients that may help to prevent cancer: Vitamin A,C,E, phytochemicals which are found in plants, vegetables , and fruits.
-Screening, genetic testing, and counseling: early DX and TX: detection of BRCA1 and BRCA2- genes associated with early development of breast cancer for women.
2. TCM approach to cancer how does it differ?
TCM approach emphasize the importance of the body-mind communication network. The development of cancer is viewed as a part of the presenting features of a syndrome representing an imbalance of the whole body-mind network. Thus, cancer is a systemic DX from the start and the
rebalance of the body-mind network will be restored and this will help resolve the cancer.
-In TCM herbs are used to enhance innate immunity and in combinations are used to enhance their benefits while reducing their side effects: extracts for anti-cancer therapy include and not limited to: anemarrhena, asphodeloides, atremisia argyi, commiphora myrrha, duchesnea indica, gleditsia sinensis, rubia cordifolia salvia chinensis.. these herbs contain a variety of chemicals that may act synergistically to inhibit tumor cell division, increase tumor cell death , increase the proportion of immune cells within the tumor and increase blood flow through the tumor.
-Acupuncture- an immune modulating effect- is utilized as a technique which modulates neurotransmitters, cytokines, and neuropeptides through electrophysiological changes in the nervous system.
TCM role in cancer supportive care:
-modification of biological response to improve therapeutic gain
-improve psycho-neuro immunological response
-enhancement of sx control
-psychospiritual integration synergistically
TCM cancer tx/prevention-
- appropriate nutrition- the use of green tea and panax ginseng
-sx control- residual tx of residual effects such as fatigue and depression- spleen and stomach qi are supported by the use of appropriate formulas.
-Qi gong and tai chi and awareness meditation which are used to change electromagnetic changes that may represent the flow of qi.
-balancing the 5 elements associated with psycho-spiritual concepts through herbs and acupuncture
Friday, June 20, 2014
Biology week 6 six " The Nature of Life"
How would you distinguish between living and non-living systems?
In the framework of 'autopoiesis' the recognition of self-organization and the understanding of the structure and pattern organization of a living and non-living system is essential. The configuration of relationships independent of each other are crucial to the whole. I would define a chair and bicycle as living systems because the matter that they are created and structured from have frequencies that allow those particles to remain whole. The physical embodiment of its pattern of organization differ but matter can't be created or destroyed it is and can alter its formation and for this reason...all things are living frequencies...the chair holds the wood, the wood originated from earth...earth has frequency and life..life is connected with the cosmos, ects....a chair holds those particles... same with all elements...
-DNA doesn't determine race. Society does- would you agree?
The traditional definition of race and ethnicity taught in the educational systems is related to biological and sociological factors respectively.
Definitions:
Ethnicity: an ethnic group or ethnicity is a population of human beings with whose members identify with each other on the basis of presumed genealogy or ancestry. Ethnicity connotes shared cultural traits and shared group history, linguistic or religious traits. Ethnic groups distinguish themselves differently from one time period to another and typically seek to define themselves but also are defined by the stereotypes of dominant groups. In the 19th century there was development of the political ideology of ethnic nationalism creating nations based on a presumed shared ethnic origins such s Germany, Italy, Sweden....ect..,
Psychological constructs and models proposes that most ethnic groups must resolve two basic conflicts that occur as a result of their membership in a non-dominant group. First , non-dominant group members must resolve the stereotyping and prejudicial treatment of the dominant population toward non-dominant group individuals thus bringing about a threat to their self-concept. Second, most ethnic minorities must resolve the clash of value systems between non-dominant and dominant groups and the manner in which minority members negotiate bicultural /tri-cultural value system.
Race: The term race refers to the concept of dividing people into populations or groups on the basis of various sets of physical characteristics which presumes shared biological or genetic traits. In the early 19th century...racial differences were ascribed significance in areas of intelligence, health, and personality. There is not evidence validating these ideas. In the 19th century the concept of nationalism was used to justify the domination of one race over another within a specific nation. Racial prejudice remains a continuing problem throughout the world...
Rationale for racial development: divide and conquer: it is a program that is instilled in the unconscious mind for all populations to be monitored and controlled. Its the ultimate form of mind control.
Implications for change: thought-behaviors-action: stem from frequencies of love or fear: all other 900 emotions fall into sub-categories: Where to begin:
1) identify the program/s that is instilled in all of us/ reframe...
2) take accountability and action to reprogram our behavior and attitudes
3) build mindfulness and a sense of spirituality that prevent emotions of programmed fear of the " other" to decrease sense of isolation...building the construct of self into a sense of "us" a collective network of beings..
4) Set boundaries to the emotions of fear and hate, and narcissistic schematas....these are programs...they are viruses...
In the framework of 'autopoiesis' the recognition of self-organization and the understanding of the structure and pattern organization of a living and non-living system is essential. The configuration of relationships independent of each other are crucial to the whole. I would define a chair and bicycle as living systems because the matter that they are created and structured from have frequencies that allow those particles to remain whole. The physical embodiment of its pattern of organization differ but matter can't be created or destroyed it is and can alter its formation and for this reason...all things are living frequencies...the chair holds the wood, the wood originated from earth...earth has frequency and life..life is connected with the cosmos, ects....a chair holds those particles... same with all elements...
-DNA doesn't determine race. Society does- would you agree?
The traditional definition of race and ethnicity taught in the educational systems is related to biological and sociological factors respectively.
Definitions:
Ethnicity: an ethnic group or ethnicity is a population of human beings with whose members identify with each other on the basis of presumed genealogy or ancestry. Ethnicity connotes shared cultural traits and shared group history, linguistic or religious traits. Ethnic groups distinguish themselves differently from one time period to another and typically seek to define themselves but also are defined by the stereotypes of dominant groups. In the 19th century there was development of the political ideology of ethnic nationalism creating nations based on a presumed shared ethnic origins such s Germany, Italy, Sweden....ect..,
Psychological constructs and models proposes that most ethnic groups must resolve two basic conflicts that occur as a result of their membership in a non-dominant group. First , non-dominant group members must resolve the stereotyping and prejudicial treatment of the dominant population toward non-dominant group individuals thus bringing about a threat to their self-concept. Second, most ethnic minorities must resolve the clash of value systems between non-dominant and dominant groups and the manner in which minority members negotiate bicultural /tri-cultural value system.
Race: The term race refers to the concept of dividing people into populations or groups on the basis of various sets of physical characteristics which presumes shared biological or genetic traits. In the early 19th century...racial differences were ascribed significance in areas of intelligence, health, and personality. There is not evidence validating these ideas. In the 19th century the concept of nationalism was used to justify the domination of one race over another within a specific nation. Racial prejudice remains a continuing problem throughout the world...
Rationale for racial development: divide and conquer: it is a program that is instilled in the unconscious mind for all populations to be monitored and controlled. Its the ultimate form of mind control.
Implications for change: thought-behaviors-action: stem from frequencies of love or fear: all other 900 emotions fall into sub-categories: Where to begin:
1) identify the program/s that is instilled in all of us/ reframe...
2) take accountability and action to reprogram our behavior and attitudes
3) build mindfulness and a sense of spirituality that prevent emotions of programmed fear of the " other" to decrease sense of isolation...building the construct of self into a sense of "us" a collective network of beings..
4) Set boundaries to the emotions of fear and hate, and narcissistic schematas....these are programs...they are viruses...
Saturday, June 14, 2014
Biology Week 5 Assignment
" How so you now supposed new species emerge?"
Modern science has confined the human evolution to the period between the late Miocene eight million years ago and 100,000 years ago..This period marks an evolutionary transition from the common ancestor with modern chimpanzee to modern humans...in seeking a specific model or framework to analyze and study how new species emerge perhaps the one that makes more sense is the space between order and chaos...This zone is where systems of life transforms into another...a way of assessing unexplained phenomena..in this formulation there is the transformation of neural networking pathways that give rise to very complex functions as a result of being in the "edge of chaos..." This transitional phase is something to observe without judgment or quantitative measures...Non-linear rippling movement of mutations can occur in this stage.. could this framework predict and capture the essence when the caterpillar is about to transform...could it explain our origins? The evolutionary perspective continues to make attempts to explain the hybrid nature of mankind...it would more interesting to seek how the animals and the plant life generate as information-processing networks and how refined the changes occur over a timeline..
" Do you vote for the chicken or the egg?"
So if two non-chicken parents got together and gave rise to a new species because of a genetic mutation...I am really interested to know more about the parents and how their chemistry attracted each other ...questions arise...like were they both from the same species? what was going on with its environment...as a result a species emerged and the taste bud of humanity decided to call it chicken because it tastes the same around the world... so I have heard. I have never tasted or eaten a chicken..
but I decided to rent 'chicken little ," DVD...to understand their plight..
Modern science has confined the human evolution to the period between the late Miocene eight million years ago and 100,000 years ago..This period marks an evolutionary transition from the common ancestor with modern chimpanzee to modern humans...in seeking a specific model or framework to analyze and study how new species emerge perhaps the one that makes more sense is the space between order and chaos...This zone is where systems of life transforms into another...a way of assessing unexplained phenomena..in this formulation there is the transformation of neural networking pathways that give rise to very complex functions as a result of being in the "edge of chaos..." This transitional phase is something to observe without judgment or quantitative measures...Non-linear rippling movement of mutations can occur in this stage.. could this framework predict and capture the essence when the caterpillar is about to transform...could it explain our origins? The evolutionary perspective continues to make attempts to explain the hybrid nature of mankind...it would more interesting to seek how the animals and the plant life generate as information-processing networks and how refined the changes occur over a timeline..
" Do you vote for the chicken or the egg?"
So if two non-chicken parents got together and gave rise to a new species because of a genetic mutation...I am really interested to know more about the parents and how their chemistry attracted each other ...questions arise...like were they both from the same species? what was going on with its environment...as a result a species emerged and the taste bud of humanity decided to call it chicken because it tastes the same around the world... so I have heard. I have never tasted or eaten a chicken..
but I decided to rent 'chicken little ," DVD...to understand their plight..
Sunday, June 8, 2014
Biology Week 4 assignment
" How we view animal intelligence"
The article about Magpies: Urban birds with people problems... brought me back to my childhood experience when the elders in our community would talk about the mythological Crow and its family and how they are intelligent messengers because they carry codes of communication to and from the spirit realm. My opinion towards how I view animal intelligence... is biased and stems from American Indian legends and from our teachings- specifically from the northern Californian region.
It is important to understand how an animal has evolved over time to adapt and further survive within urban cities. For example, the crow cousin, the Magpies, have been drastically persecuted since the beginning of the 20 th century... they have been poisoned and hunted after so it only makes sense for their genetic coding to install a high alert signal that provides them with additional skills for survival. It is within the lens of agrarian societies that depicts them as "aggressive," and "intimidating" or " annoying" this is because the humans that reside in their territory do not understand their history and therefore undermine their intelligence. Even Biologists were shocked at the fact that right after they were investigating the size of the Magpies eggs that they would then be targeted. It does not make sense how modern humans that target animals in any setting can continue to be so disconnected from the Earth and its relations. By relations it is defined as any organism which include earth's elements...all are connected and exist in a web like conscious existence. Scientist discuss the " monkey effect," and attempt to make sense of how a species in one part of the world can utilize skills to open up a coconut and then other animals can then show the same skills even when they are in a different region????? simply stated its a web-conscious effect...it is not limited to humans it also affects animals.... Carl Jung identified it as " collective consciousness," ....So if we are interested in studying an animal behavior it is important to understand their history and to be mindful that their intelligence is connected to the web of life...meaning that if they adapt and perhaps begin to utilize a new skill for nesting, mating, communication...it will affect their related cousins...perhaps that frame shift from one paradigm to a more humble and mindful one can assist how we view " animal intelligence."
The article about Magpies: Urban birds with people problems... brought me back to my childhood experience when the elders in our community would talk about the mythological Crow and its family and how they are intelligent messengers because they carry codes of communication to and from the spirit realm. My opinion towards how I view animal intelligence... is biased and stems from American Indian legends and from our teachings- specifically from the northern Californian region.
It is important to understand how an animal has evolved over time to adapt and further survive within urban cities. For example, the crow cousin, the Magpies, have been drastically persecuted since the beginning of the 20 th century... they have been poisoned and hunted after so it only makes sense for their genetic coding to install a high alert signal that provides them with additional skills for survival. It is within the lens of agrarian societies that depicts them as "aggressive," and "intimidating" or " annoying" this is because the humans that reside in their territory do not understand their history and therefore undermine their intelligence. Even Biologists were shocked at the fact that right after they were investigating the size of the Magpies eggs that they would then be targeted. It does not make sense how modern humans that target animals in any setting can continue to be so disconnected from the Earth and its relations. By relations it is defined as any organism which include earth's elements...all are connected and exist in a web like conscious existence. Scientist discuss the " monkey effect," and attempt to make sense of how a species in one part of the world can utilize skills to open up a coconut and then other animals can then show the same skills even when they are in a different region????? simply stated its a web-conscious effect...it is not limited to humans it also affects animals.... Carl Jung identified it as " collective consciousness," ....So if we are interested in studying an animal behavior it is important to understand their history and to be mindful that their intelligence is connected to the web of life...meaning that if they adapt and perhaps begin to utilize a new skill for nesting, mating, communication...it will affect their related cousins...perhaps that frame shift from one paradigm to a more humble and mindful one can assist how we view " animal intelligence."
Saturday, May 31, 2014
Biology week 3 assignment
Genetic Evolution:
1). " 99.4% of the most critical DNA sites are identical in human and chimp genes" What do you make of this?
The fact that Scientists have deciphered the DNA of the chimpanzee brings important implications for further research r/t human health and other advances in disease management. For example, in the area of HIV,AIDS, diabetes, malaria and Alzheimer's...chimps have been able to resist many infections it would be interesting study what gene expressions/DNA base pairs protect them from maladies...
According to Dr. Yi, his study supports the notion of having humans and chimpanzees in one genus...because chimps generation time is closer to humans and perhaps would this warrant more protection over chimps than other species? I can't imagine the massive political upheaval this would bring to the world if the evolutionary genus is reclassified. On another note...according to the Yerkes Primate Research Center, studies reveal that in both chimps and humans, nearly over 25,000 genes carry the genetic code for creating all the proteins that make up their bodies and brains and they stem from 3 billion chemical units of DNA base pairs which took the scientist only 4 years to identify the similarities and differences that define the species..
What would be interesting is to find out specifically from fossil records how long ago the split between humans and chimps occurred. The results from the study also found that some classes of genes have changed rapidly in both chimps and humans that affect the area of hearing, transmission of nerve signals and production of sperm...
2) Results from tutorial:
1) virus
2)B- RER= synthesis and assembly
3) D= processing of membranes/secrete proteins
4) C= in CF receptors in the ER is increased
5) d= cell wall
6) D=all
3) Opinion of a class discussion:
- The history of stem cell research. Over the course of time Scientist realized that it was not necessary to utilize embryos to obtain stem cells... what other options were available as not to destroy so many embryos?
-another question concerning IPS cells: "induced pluripotent stem cells" what are their shortcomings when being converted to specific cell types? how is the reprogramming sequence of events monitored/quantified/processed/implemented/regulated/evaluated without severe outcomes?
-Stem cells from cloning procedures: does the nuclear transfer process justify the means? for example, generating stem cells that are glucose-responsive beta cells?
There are other issues to address: cost analysis, the time these two processed provide outcomes and the ethical considerations if there are negative consequences on human experimentation. How about production and supply? how is demand controlled and distributed? There still many other realistic/conventional concerns....
4) CYBERNETICS: Autopoiesis and Coevolution:
Autopoiesis: the organization of living systems which is characterized by carrying out specific network interactions of components which makes it a whole and a living system..it is a matter of asking what organization is it self reproducing. This system model has interacting components, and yet every system is itself a component and that component is itself a system.. and finding that any living system has a process of cognition. The fact that all organisms has a constitution have an emergent identity is meaningful.
Levels of coevolution: In a poetic fashion hope you enjoy...or not...
"What is life but a biophysical level of returning back to matter and the stream of interplay between individual life forms within their biosocial sphere of interactions, complex forms, the maintenance of an autopoietic socioecosystem, takes energy is this the emergence of a society, and by creating a simple poem it depicts the mythicosocial level, uniquely placing and elaborating abstract form from thoughts that are generated from energy,frequency,electrical processed, molecular which then flow out onto a screen, the world of imagination with many dimensions. Does this define humanity or can it also apply to artificial intelligence.....what a fragile balance....what virtual world of illusionary interplay we conceive its all a hologram journey...."
1). " 99.4% of the most critical DNA sites are identical in human and chimp genes" What do you make of this?
The fact that Scientists have deciphered the DNA of the chimpanzee brings important implications for further research r/t human health and other advances in disease management. For example, in the area of HIV,AIDS, diabetes, malaria and Alzheimer's...chimps have been able to resist many infections it would be interesting study what gene expressions/DNA base pairs protect them from maladies...
According to Dr. Yi, his study supports the notion of having humans and chimpanzees in one genus...because chimps generation time is closer to humans and perhaps would this warrant more protection over chimps than other species? I can't imagine the massive political upheaval this would bring to the world if the evolutionary genus is reclassified. On another note...according to the Yerkes Primate Research Center, studies reveal that in both chimps and humans, nearly over 25,000 genes carry the genetic code for creating all the proteins that make up their bodies and brains and they stem from 3 billion chemical units of DNA base pairs which took the scientist only 4 years to identify the similarities and differences that define the species..
What would be interesting is to find out specifically from fossil records how long ago the split between humans and chimps occurred. The results from the study also found that some classes of genes have changed rapidly in both chimps and humans that affect the area of hearing, transmission of nerve signals and production of sperm...
2) Results from tutorial:
1) virus
2)B- RER= synthesis and assembly
3) D= processing of membranes/secrete proteins
4) C= in CF receptors in the ER is increased
5) d= cell wall
6) D=all
3) Opinion of a class discussion:
- The history of stem cell research. Over the course of time Scientist realized that it was not necessary to utilize embryos to obtain stem cells... what other options were available as not to destroy so many embryos?
-another question concerning IPS cells: "induced pluripotent stem cells" what are their shortcomings when being converted to specific cell types? how is the reprogramming sequence of events monitored/quantified/processed/implemented/regulated/evaluated without severe outcomes?
-Stem cells from cloning procedures: does the nuclear transfer process justify the means? for example, generating stem cells that are glucose-responsive beta cells?
There are other issues to address: cost analysis, the time these two processed provide outcomes and the ethical considerations if there are negative consequences on human experimentation. How about production and supply? how is demand controlled and distributed? There still many other realistic/conventional concerns....
4) CYBERNETICS: Autopoiesis and Coevolution:
Autopoiesis: the organization of living systems which is characterized by carrying out specific network interactions of components which makes it a whole and a living system..it is a matter of asking what organization is it self reproducing. This system model has interacting components, and yet every system is itself a component and that component is itself a system.. and finding that any living system has a process of cognition. The fact that all organisms has a constitution have an emergent identity is meaningful.
Levels of coevolution: In a poetic fashion hope you enjoy...or not...
"What is life but a biophysical level of returning back to matter and the stream of interplay between individual life forms within their biosocial sphere of interactions, complex forms, the maintenance of an autopoietic socioecosystem, takes energy is this the emergence of a society, and by creating a simple poem it depicts the mythicosocial level, uniquely placing and elaborating abstract form from thoughts that are generated from energy,frequency,electrical processed, molecular which then flow out onto a screen, the world of imagination with many dimensions. Does this define humanity or can it also apply to artificial intelligence.....what a fragile balance....what virtual world of illusionary interplay we conceive its all a hologram journey...."
Wednesday, May 21, 2014
Biology second assignment
Thought on Evo-Devo:
Ontogeny recapitulates phylogeny.... its relationship: Drosophila with interesting mutations: homeotic mutations... I wonder about how could they not be intimately connected...imagine the entire architecture changing ( morphing) ...would the living animal know its about to change? how does a caterpillar know its about to change into a butterfly....it knows somehow...however, not an exact example of the fruit fly...huge mutations do appear...and their purpose? The gene appears twice, one carries a normal function, while the other mutates...perhaps making it more " fitter?" The notion of genes being a " symphony of expression," speaks to its ability to respond to certain cues......more specifically what notes? and how crucial are these "master genes," in control? if all the branches of species have them....how does the replication of master genes occur? When it comes to diversity, perhaps this is an example of how a replica adapted for necessary survival.....
What remains a mystery...what mechanism account for genetic programs to be in place to begin with? and what situations bring variations? I believe that DNA responds to light and sound frequency... but that is another story..
How Darwinism matter to me? I do not agree with the "fittest," construct... I read " The Origin of Species," when I was 17 years old.. I thought that perhaps his findings were imperative for his time..however, defining "advantageous traits," became a construct I disagreed with.
.....
I have to admit I would rather study newer concept of fast-paced evolution or regressive traits... The "De Novo genes," continue to cling to existence which were not accounted for in Darwin's findings....
Ontogeny recapitulates phylogeny.... its relationship: Drosophila with interesting mutations: homeotic mutations... I wonder about how could they not be intimately connected...imagine the entire architecture changing ( morphing) ...would the living animal know its about to change? how does a caterpillar know its about to change into a butterfly....it knows somehow...however, not an exact example of the fruit fly...huge mutations do appear...and their purpose? The gene appears twice, one carries a normal function, while the other mutates...perhaps making it more " fitter?" The notion of genes being a " symphony of expression," speaks to its ability to respond to certain cues......more specifically what notes? and how crucial are these "master genes," in control? if all the branches of species have them....how does the replication of master genes occur? When it comes to diversity, perhaps this is an example of how a replica adapted for necessary survival.....
What remains a mystery...what mechanism account for genetic programs to be in place to begin with? and what situations bring variations? I believe that DNA responds to light and sound frequency... but that is another story..
How Darwinism matter to me? I do not agree with the "fittest," construct... I read " The Origin of Species," when I was 17 years old.. I thought that perhaps his findings were imperative for his time..however, defining "advantageous traits," became a construct I disagreed with.
.....
I have to admit I would rather study newer concept of fast-paced evolution or regressive traits... The "De Novo genes," continue to cling to existence which were not accounted for in Darwin's findings....
Sunday, May 18, 2014
http://acchsbiologysummer14.blogspot.com
This is a Biology class assignment.
Title: The extra hour of sleep and its relationship to health outcomes. According to the sleep council in Briton, it appears that the average sleep cycle is 61/2 hrs. It would be vital to understand exactly what the hours are given that the cyclical periods for which the brain is able to release melatonin would be an important aspect to measure. Perhaps individual measures across time would also be helpful to rule out other aspects of sleep that may/not enhance the brain's capacity to consolidate memories. I found the article very interesting but it would help to read long term studies regarding the measures..
Title: The extra hour of sleep and its relationship to health outcomes. According to the sleep council in Briton, it appears that the average sleep cycle is 61/2 hrs. It would be vital to understand exactly what the hours are given that the cyclical periods for which the brain is able to release melatonin would be an important aspect to measure. Perhaps individual measures across time would also be helpful to rule out other aspects of sleep that may/not enhance the brain's capacity to consolidate memories. I found the article very interesting but it would help to read long term studies regarding the measures..
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