• 23 May 2009 /  Health Series

    To correct any health issue the body needs the basic energy (ATP) that it tries to make via the liver. However the body usually fails to accomplish this basic feat.

    Why? The liver is an extraordinary organ. The body cannot function without it. Beside making Q10 which is indispensable for making energy, the liver also makes an enormous number of other materials plus it is always detoxing the blood.

    Most livers cannot keep up with the amount of Q10 that the body requires, not to mention lipoic acid. Lipoic acid is is extremely short supply and we get almost none of it from food. It is indispensable in regenerating the used Q10 back into a useful state so it can be used again plus lipoic acid can prevent cells from being destroyed by protecting the antioxidant glutathione.

    So Q10 and lipoic acid never act on their own, but are basic ‘helpers’ in making energy and aiding in the protection of other antioxidants. It’s like having a toolbox - you usually need more than one tool to do the job.

    Taking oral glutathione is pointless as it will be destroyed by the gut and you cannot always have an IV poking into you feeding you this antioxidant. So! Oral lipoic acid is the answer - take it regularly and glutathione is protected from damage and so are cells, especially brain cells from certain death particularly during any hold up of blood such as in stroke. It’s not the hold up (ischemia) of blood that does the damage, but the return of flow (reperfusion) that brings with it a sudden influx of damaging oxidative species which will destroy brain cells and does. But lipoic acid can protect cells from this event by protecting glutathione, a major antioxidant.

    Health related issues such as autoimmune diseases arise in the body sometimes due to congenital influences (from birth), contact and allowing the body to run down for various reasons.

    To correct an autoimmune disease, the body needs to do the job. Whatever you ingest, make skin contact with or get exposed to in any way has an effect on your body.

    A contribution to good health is a sensible diet and regular aerobic exercise - the type of exercise where you puff, sweat and raise heart rate for a short time each day - but never overdo it!!

    From other articles on health that I have written it seems that readers are searching for ways to help themselves.

    Of course no one product can advocate a total and immediate success rate for a health issue - but is that really what we need to look for.

    Is it really important to look for that elusive rapid cure or would small improvements over time do the same thing.

    In my studies with Chinese Medicine I have found that it is definitely the many small improvements that can bring about health and that health is unique for everyone.

    Health is the sum total of all we do and our exposure to our environment, so indeed it in more important to go easy on ourselves and take small steps.

    Now as far as CoQ10Sport is concerned, it is not a cure for anything - the body will do that quite nicely. However what CoQ10Sport does very well is support the function of cells - to give cells the energy ability to do what they do best - heal themselves - when given appropriate nutrition.

    The article that has led you here is obviously very personal to you. You should be aware that this product will enhance your energy and will not by itself cure a disease - again your body will do that when you give it enough to work with.

    I hope this helps you in your endeavor to find a solution. Please contact me directly via the Contact Form if you have further questions and thank you for reading.

    As someone who is searching for Q10 you are looking for a product that is affordable and effective. Developed and made in Australia by an Industrial Chemist, this formula will give you more energy when you need it. However you will need to ‘retrain’ the body’s cells by taking it consistently. By doing so, the mitochondria (the energy makers) in each cell begin to multiply - every 10 days they divide and it is this increase in numbers that allows your body to make more energy. Using a good diet and exercise your energy will improve over time.

    As a first off trial offer, you, the customer can now buy only one bottle of 60 vegecapsules of CoQ10Sport at $50AUD+shipping - delivered anywhere.

    After that you will have access to the Members Area where you have regular increased buying power as you will want more than just one bottle. And you get fantastic deals in buying amino acids and other products.

    CoQ10 Sport is a very effective energy producing formula. We were the first to bring out this style of formula using both q10 and lipoic acid - it is still a very effective formula.

    Plus there is the added benefit of knowing that it is made in Australia under GMP manufacturing conditions and registered as a Listed Medicine.

    The capsules are made of vegetable material and so are suitable for all tastes and diets.

    The effect of the Q10 is enhanced by the presence of lipoic acid. Lipoic acid regenerates Q10 and gives your body much more use from what you are paying for.

    CoQ10 Sport is rigidly tested in Australian laboratories for microbiological and chemical substances. It must pass all tests before being allowed onto the market.

    This gives you, the customer, confidence in using the product.

    CoQ10Sport has been packed in a black plastic bottle to totally stop all light - light in the form of ultraviolet rays, even in shops, can slowly degrade the Q10 - this cannot happen with CoQ10 Sport. Every batch has stability testing using higher than ambient temperature. At controlled temperature between 10 and 20 degrees C in our coolroom, we have seen that even after a two year test, the amount of Q10 in the capsule has not varied - this shows exceptional value in the product for you the customer.

    Ideal place for storage
    In all areas where temperatures may vary considerably away from the ideal 10 to 20 degrees Celsius (at any time) we do recommend that you keep the product in your refrigerator door area - the refrigerator door area is least susceptible to temperature fluctuations - you do not want to freeze the product but it is very stable even at 5 degrees Celsius.

    So, before choosing a Q10 product, you now have some idea of quality considerations and you can decide if that product is suitable for you.

    We encourage your feedback about what the product has done for you.

    Please read the testimonials as this will give you a good idea what others think about CoQ10 Sport

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  • 23 May 2009 /  Chinese Medicine

    Chinese Medicine – Five Phase Theory and application
    Interrelationships of Organs

    Each organ interrelates with a number of other organs.

    This article shows the reader how to understand these different relationships. Please refer to the table at the end of the article.

    For each organ in the body list all of its yin and yang partners and complete the following for each.
    Similar function
    Organ proximity
    Channel Proximity
    5 Element – Sheng Cycle relationship
    Mother and son relationship
    5 Element Ko cycle relationship
    5 Element – Reverse Ko Cycle relationship

    Organs, their Qi type and Organ Partners

    Organ Qi Partners
         
    Heart, H Yin KID, SI
    Small Intestine, SI Yang H, BL
    Bladder, BL Yang KID, SI
    Kidney, KID Yin H, BL
    Pericardium, P Yin LIV, SJ
    Sanjiao, SJ Yang P, GB
    Gall Bladder, GB Yang LIV, SJ
    Liver, LIV Yin P, GB
    Lungs, L Yin SP, LI
    Large Intestine, LI Yang L, ST
    Stomach, ST Yang SP, LI
    Spleen, SP Yin L, ST

     

    Organs with a similar function.

    Filters Blood
    Liver Kidney Lung  
    Secretes & Makes Fluids
    Gall Bladder Liver Spleen Stomach
    Excretes Waste
    Large Intestine Bladder    
    Nutrient Absorption
    Small Intestine Kidneys Liver  
     

    Physical Organ Proximity

    Lungs - both sides of thorax
    Liver, Gall Bladder – right thorax, at lower half of right lung
    Spleen – left thorax
    Stomach – just left of centre thorax
    Small Intestine – centre of abdomen
    Large Intestine – square pattern over entire abdomen - ascends from Small intestine on right abdomen, moves across abdomen to left, descends, moves to right at sigmoid and descends to anus.
    Heart/Pericardium – centre of chest
    Bladder – lower, centre of abdomen
    Kidneys – centre, right and left just under floating rib approximately in the L2 area
    Sanjiao – not an organ but a convention of expression for three functions of the torso area – upper, middle and lower torso.

    Channel Proximity

    Arms
    Anterior – Lungs/lateral, Pericardium/centre, Heart/medial. Similar pathways from chest to fingertips.
    Posterior – Sanjiao, Small Intestine/posterior & medial, Large Intestine/lateral.

    Legs

    Stomach - Anterior, anterior torso and head
    Gall Bladder - Lateral and posterior torso and head
    Spleen - Lateral and anterior torso
    KIdney, Liver - Medial and anterior torso
    Bladder - Posterior and Posterior torso

    Five phase Analysis – the Sheng, Ko, Reverse Sheng and Reverse Ko Cycles

    Sheng Cycle [Phase] (Mother nourishes son) – Generating, produces, strengthens, nourishes, feeds, engenders
    Therapeutic when path is yin-yin or yang-yang – see Element/ Organ Qi in table.

    Ko Cycle [Phase] (Grandmother restrains grandson) – Controls, dominates, destroys, restrains, weakens
    Therapeutic when path is yin-yang or yang-yin.

    In both Sheng and Ko cycles or phases, alternative paths are pathologic. Organs are either yin or yang within a phase and the yang organs link together to form a circuit as do the yin organs.

    An organ with an issue within a phase( Sheng or Ko) can be rebalanced through the complementary organ in the same phase or through an organ in another phase but in the same circuit (yin or yang).

    Balancing – refer to the table.

    Balancing Yin Element
    Example 1 - Sheng Phase(yin-yin) – if there is a liver issue where liver is in deficiency then balance liver with heart.
    Example 2 - Ko Phase(yin-yang) – if there is a liver issue where liver is in deficiency then balance Liver with Stomach.

    Balancing Yang Element
    Example 1 – Sheng Phase(yang-yang) – for a Gallbladder issue balance Gallbladder with Small Intestine.
    Example 2 – Ko Phase(yang-yin) – for a Gallbladder issue balance Gallbladder with Spleen.

    Clinical example: Numbness in the leg - treat Liv 3 and GB 34 (Ko phase energetic balance, yin-yang) and also in the same treatment needling ST36 (but not a spleen point, as this would contravene therapy rules - Sheng phase energetics, yin-yin).
    In five phase theory the focus is on maintaining energy distribution. Any excess or any stagnation is interpreted as a blockage of energy flow and needs treatment – this can be said to be the focus of acupuncture.


    Case Studies - fictional and open to interpretation

    1. Robert has been diagnosed with hepatitis. According to the liver organ interrelationships, what could
    go wrong with the other organs in the body as a result of hepatitis and why?
    Response: Weakened Liver causes Heart/Pericardium to behave in excess yin causing yang partner Small intestine to go into excess yang. Low Liver yin causes excess Liver yang flaring into the Heart and manifesting in the tongue as a red spot on the front of the tongue and in the throat as obstruction. The mother, Kidney will go into excess yang affecting the Bladder channel resulting in either lumbar pain or sciatica.

    2. Joanne comes into your clinic and informs you she has Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. The Chinese might view this as a kidney imbalance since the kidneys govern the reproductive system.
    According to your Kidney organ interrelationships, what could go wrong with the other organs in the body as a result of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, and why?
    Response: The Kidney yin will go low causing the Bladder Channel to balance with excess yang. However, the Ko cycle relativity will likely result in a Spleen/ Stomach imbalance resulting in digestive disorders. Lung will go into excess yin to try to balance energy which may result in extra disorders and Bladder disorders.

    3. Peter has been diagnosed with Diabetes, a Pancreas disorder. In TCM the Spleen is the organ that represents the Pancreas.
    According to your Spleen organ interrelationships, what could go wrong with the other organs in the body as a result of Diabetes, and why?
    Response: Spleen function is impaired. Heart/Pericardium tends to balance, resulting in Liver/Gall Bladder problems. Gall Bladder attack is likely and could occur. Lung function is impaired with shortness of breath.

    4. Jim has been getting treatment for Heartburn and Acid Reflux, a Stomach complaint in TCM.
    According to you Stomach organ interrelationships, what could go wrong with the other organs in the body as a result of Heartburn and Acid Reflux, and why?
    Response: Stomach(yang excess) produces too much acid. Puts pressure on the Pancreas to adjust Small Intestine pH and affects LI function probably resulting in loose stools.

    5. Urinary Tract Infections are often caused by Urinary Bladder problems.
    According to your Urinary Bladder organ interrelationships, what could go wrong with the other organs in the body as a result of Urinary Tract Infections, and why?
    Response: Bladder yang is affected going low, resulting in excess Kidney yin to compensate. The excess salts delivered by Kidney imbalance causes burn at urethra. Lungs will be damp and mucus results in cough.

    6. Cholecystitis is inflammation of the Gall Bladder.
    According to your Gall Bladder organ interrelationships, what could go wrong with the other organs in the body as a result of Cholecystitis, and why?
    Response: Gall Bladder dysfunction results in bile blockage causing fats to pass into Small Intestine results in bowel sluggishness and constipation due to compromised bowel.

    7. A friend of yours has come back from trekking through the Nepalese Mountains. She has not eaten well because she was worried about gastrointestinal problems. As a result she has developed Malabsorption. In her case it is due to a Small Intestine imbalance.
    According to your Small Intestine organ interrelationships, what could go wrong with other organs in the body as a result of Malabsorption, and why?
    Response: Small Intestine will lose yang resulting in deficiency of nutrients and perhaps lower water reabsorption causing diarrhoea.

    8. Paul has been getting treatment for Diverticulitis (a Large Intestine complaint).
    According to your Large Intestine organ interrelationships, what could go wrong with the other organs in the body as a result of Diverticulitis, and why?
    Response: Diverticulitis can result in bleeding and inflammation of the sigmoid. Inflammation translates to low Large Intestine yang resulting in increased Lung yin to compensate. Dampness could result with mucousy cough.

    9. A patient of yours is recovering from Pneumonia (a Lung complaint).
    According to your Lung organ interrelationships, what could go wrong with the other organs in the body as a result of Pneumonia, and why?
    Response: Results in lowered Lung yin (increased yang) causing inflammation and mucus. Stomach and Kidneys are affected as impaired function.

    10. A patient of yours has a Heart rhythm problem called Tachycardia.
    According to your Heart organ interrelationships, what could go wrong with the other organs in the body as a result of Tachycardia, and why?
    Response: Impaired Heart function results in low yin, high yang causing the abnormal ryhythm. The Liver yin is affected causing impair Liver function. However the cause is due to the Ko cycle organ/Lung. Due to stress and shallow breathing, the body is not removing toxins correctly, high cortisol levels result in adrenal overload (high levels of adrenalin) mostly likely causing the Tachycardia. Bring Lung into balance by regulated breathing to metabolise cortisol and a cure is likely.

    What does this mean for my health
    Qi energetics seem confusing. However if the relationships in the table at the end of this article are followed and with practice, the therapeutic manifestations will result in benefits for the patient (and for the practitioner). It’s perhaps not easy, at first, trying to come to grips with five phase theory, however the practitioner can take the therapy to wherever they wish – there are many possibilities for treatment.

    Consider also the added strength of mixing modalities, such as acupuncture and moxibustion.

    Another case study
    I recently treated a person with a fungal skin condition – it seems they were wearing a synthetic garment which contributed to the favourable conditions for the fungus to develop. The affected area was about 100mm in diameter at the side of the neck/shoulder. The area was red and slightly blistery in appearance. Moxa was used over the area in a grid pattern – regular moxa was used and the stick was only moved to the next point about 25mm away when the patient called ‘hot’. Thirty minutes after treatment (which lasted about 10 minutes) the patient felt a vast change to the area – there was no more pain or sensitivity from the blistering.

    Helpful hints for health
    I always like to support treatment with my own brand of Q10 (CoQ10Sport) which I developed a few years ago. As the formula contains lipoic acid, I have found that any nerve related issue (and there are many of those) is quickly dampened to result in mitigation of pain and improved healing. Lipoic acid strengthens the body’s antioxidant, glutathione and all these antioxidants are very important in helping the body to recover through improved energy generation which speeds healing – mix your modalities!

    Healing is a process of energy flow. I developed CoQ10Sport to help a family member recover after cancer a few years ago – she never lost energy and recovered rapidly after the removal of the small lump without added chemotherapy or radiation. I believe in a natural and holistic approach to healing and found that a combination of my invention (CoQ10Sport), Reiki, Acupuncture, Moxibustion, regular exercise and a diet rich in raw and fresh vegetables brings about health.

    It is important to keep the body oxygenated to stay healthy. Ozonated water made fresh in your home gives you clean and oxygenated water – ozone breaks down quickly to oxygen but it rapidly destroys toxins while it is active – it only takes a minute.
    Alternatively, if you have a small aquarium air pump and filter stone , just place this in a jug of cold water – the colder the water the more oxygen it will hold – the same applied to ozone.

    To prevent ill health I recommend the above approach. Stay away from the temptations of chocolate, sugars, meats, alcohol and caffeine in its various forms in coffee, tea and processed drinks and good health must follow. Health starts with a good diet and good digestion – try taking one teaspoonful of apple cider vinegar in water just before a meal to improve digestion – you should notice an unusual ease after the meal. The acetic acid in the vinegar stimulates the stomachs acid production and the water gives the bolus of food an added digestibility whereas with a dry meal the fluid of digestion must be drawn from the blood resulting in dehydration and subsequent indigestion.
    Ron Campeanu MRACI Chartered Chemist

    References

    The Foundations of Chinese Medicine, Maciocia, G, Churchill Livingstone

    Chinese Philosophy, Workbook, Australian Institute for Applied Science

    Chinese Philosophy, Chinese Clock

    Five Phase I Ching – Sheng and Ko Cycles, http://members.iimetro.com.au/~lofting/myweb.icfiveA.html

    Five Element Acupuncture, Theory and clinical applications, Yin Yang house, http://yinyanghouse.com/theory/chinese/five_element_acupuncture_theory

    Table
    Five Phase – Element and Phase( cycle) interrelationships

    5 Element – Sheng Cycle relationship

    Mother and son relationship
    5 Element Ko cycle relationship
    5 Element – Reverse Ko Cycle relationship
    Organs, their Qi type and Organ partners

    Element

    Yin Qi Organ

    Yang Qi Organ

    Mother

    Son

    Sheng phase

    Ko phase

    Reverse Sheng

    Reverse Ko

    Reinforces

    Wood

    Liver

    Gall Bladder

    Water

    Fire

    Fire

    Earth

    Water

    Metal

    Wood

    Fire

    Heart/Per

    Small Intestine

    Wood

    Earth

    Earth

    Metal

    Wood

    Water

    Fire

    Earth

    Spleen

    Stomach

    Fire

    Metal

    Metal

    Water

    Fire

    Wood

    Earth

    Metal

    Lungs

    Large Intestine

    Earth

    Water

    Water

    Wood

    Earth

    Fire

    Metal

    Water

    Kidneys

    Bladder

    Metal

    Wood

    Wood

    Fire

    Metal

    Earth

    Water


    Authors note on this table Sheng and Ko phases may be yin or yang within the phase. When calculating relationships to the primary element use either the yin organ or the yang organ. eg starting with Yin Qi Organ: liver/heart Ko: Liver/Stomach eg LIV3, ST36 (yin-yang) and Reverse Sheng: Liver/Kidneys Reverse Ko: Liver/Large Intestine eg 4 gates, LIV3,LI4 (yin-yang). Ko cycle is therapeutic when yin-yang, see below.

    Sheng Cycle [Phase] (Mother nourishes son) – Generating, produces, strengthens, nourishes, feeds, engenders
    Therapeutic when path is yin-yin or yang yang – see Element/ Organ Qi in table.
    Example: Wood is mother to Fire. Fire is mother to Earth etc.

    Authors note: Strictly speaking, this hould be termed either Mother/daughter or Father/son to keep it in line with correct Qi cycle energetics such as yin-yin and yang-yang respectively. The energetics must be of the same type, yin-yin or yang-yang but not a mixture eg yin-yang.

    Ko Cycle [Phase] (Grandmother restrains grandson) – Controls, dominates, destroys, restrains, weakens
    Therapeutic when path is yin-yang or yang-yin.
    Example: Wood is Grandmother to Earth( grandson). Fire is grandmother to Metal. This is termed correctly as Grandmother/grandson, yin-yang or yang-yin depending on the starting reference for the Qi Organ circuit eg Yin or Yang Qi Organ Circuit as in the table, columns 2 and 3.
    Thank you for your interest in my work - Ron Campeanu

    Ron Campeanu - Industrial Chemist, studying an Advanced Diploma in Acupuncture, designed the Q10Sport formula in 2003 in Australia. It is a Listed Medicine and a very potent energy formula. Actives are naturally occuring in the body. The formula helps rebuild cells to allow the body more energy capacity when needed - in times of stress, training, work.
    For more information please visit the website at http://www.realhealthproducts.com where you can read more information in the various health blogs.

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  • 22 Apr 2009 /  Health Series

    Myasthenia Gravis and other autoimmune diseases, a technical enquiry

    Introduction

    This article should be considered as a continuation to ‘Myasthenia Gravis – a neuromuscular disease’ written by Ron Campeanu.

    This article will introduce some fresh ideas about the possible causes of myasthenia gravis (and other autoimmune diseases) and some ideas on what may help alleviate the symptoms or help the body regain health.

    The reader is now made aware that although the name of a disease has been attributed to them that they are unique in that to rid themselves of any disease, it is essentially a path of persistence using all modalities that are available to them.

    There is seldom a quick fix for a disease as the pathophysiology of any disease may be the result of numerous errors in the body’s immune system over a long period of time and due to multiple factors.

    Tolerance of acquired immunity system to tissues – the role of preprocessing in the thymus and bone marrow.

    If a person becomes immune to their own tissues the body would be destroyed by the acquired immunity. The immune mechanism normally recognizes a persons tissues as distinct from invaders and the immune system forms few if any antibodies or acquired T cells against its own antigens and is a phenomenon known as self tolerance to the body’s own tissues.

    Most tolerance results from clone selection during preprocessing.

    The belief is that most of the phenomenon of tolerance develops during the preprocessing of T lymphocytes in the thymus and B lymphocytes in the bone marrow. The reason for this is that the injection of a strong antigen into a fetus at the time of preprocessing of lymphocytes in these two areas will prevent lymphocyte clones specific to the antigen in lymphoid tissue.

    It has been shown that specific immature T lymphocytes when exposed to a strong antigen become lymphoblastic, multiply and combine with the antigen. This effect causes the lymphocytes to be destroyed by the thymic epithelial cells before any release into lymphoid tissue. If lymphoid tissue is affected, look to the thymus as the most possible source of the immune problem.

    Normally, during preprocessing of lymphocytes in the thymus and bone marrow most if not all clones specific to the body’s own tissues will be destroyed during exposure and matching against to the body’s antigens. In a healthy body this matching goes well and all reactive cells are destroyed before release to the lymphoid tissues.

    Failure of the tolerance mechanism causes autoimmune diseases.

    With increasing age there is more chance that a person will form immunity to their own tissues.

    Autoimmunity
    This autoimmunity usually happens after a destruction of some of the body’s tissues releasing self-antigens into tissues causing acquired immunity of activated T cells or antibodies.

    Diseases resulting from autoimmunity
    Rheumatic fever (joints, heart) – the body becomes immunized against tissues in the joints and heart valves, after exposure to a strain of streptococcal toxin.

    Glomerulonephritis(kidney) – at least one type where immunization occurs against glomeruli basement membranes

    Myasthenia Gravis(muscle) – immunity occurs in the neuromuscular junction acetylcholine protein receptors – result is paralysis.

    Lupus Erythmatosis(systemic) – immunization against many tissues all at the same time resulting in severe cellular damage and very often, death.

    Vaccination
    Vaccination causes acquired immunity against specific diseases. Here are some methods used for vaccination.

    Dead organisms with chemical antigens still intact are injected to protect against diseases such as typhoid fever, whooping cough, diphtheria and other bacterial diseases.

    Chemically treated toxins with their toxic nature inactive but their antigens for causing immunity intact. Used for vaccination against tetanus, botulism and similar toxic diseases.

    Attenuated live organisms. Organisms that have been cultured or passed through a series of animals until their mutations no longer cause disease but still carry the specific antigen. Used to protect against poliomyelitis, yellow fever, measles, smallpox and other viral diseases.

    Function of the Immune System
    The immune system is a network of interacting cellular and soluble components.

    The function is to distinguish entities in the body as self and non-self and to eliminate the non-self.

    The main non-self entities are microorganisms, but neoplasms, transplants and foreign substances (toxins) are also important.

    The immune system uses specific and non-specific immunity which are linked and influence each other.

    Nonspecific(Innate) immunity is present at birth, does not need an encounter with an offending substance and does not develop memory. This includes physical barriers such as skin and gastric acid.

    There are two cellular components. The phagocytic system which ingests and digests invading microorganisms and natural killer cells which kill some tumours, microorganisms and virally infected cells. Phagocytes include neutrophils and monocytes in the blood and macrophages in the tissues. Macrophages are widely spread at the interface of tissues and blood and cavity spaces. For example, alveolar macrophages in the lungs, Kupffer cells in liver sinusoids, synovial cells in joint cavities, perivascular microglial cells in the Central Nervous System (CNS) lining and mesangial phagocytes in kidneys.

    The soluble components are complement proteins, acute phase reactants and cytokines. Cytokines are nonimmunoglobulin polypeptides secreted by monocytes and lymphocytes in response to a specific antigen, a non-specific antigen or a non-specific soluble stimulus such as an endotoxin or other cytokine.
    Cytokines affect the magnitude of inflammatory or immune responses. Cytokines are not antigen specific and cover innate and adaptive immunity.

    Specific immunity can learn, is adaptable and retains memory. The cellular component is the lymphocyte and soluble component is the immunoglobulins.

    As we have discovered, lymphocytes are either thymus (T cell) or bone marrow (B cell) derived. Lymphocytes are clonally distributed and the thymus reacts each lymphocyte clone with a specific antigen via the antigen receptor. The lymphocytes antigen receptor gene can combine in what may be limitless combinations and arrangements.

    The B cells antigen receptor is mediated by Surface Immunoglobulins. As with the T lymphocytes – antigen arrangements, the B cell binds soluble antigens via their surface immunoglobulins. A series of events results in the secretion of immunoglobulin which is the specific antibody for that antigen. Immunoglobulin gene rearrangements generate antibodies during B cell maturation in the bone marrow. To add to the diversity of possible immunoglobulin – antigen arrangements there is the addition of random nucleotides, by somatic point mutations and by segmental inaccuracy.

    Genes that encode the T cell receptor belong to the immunoglobulin gene superfamily and subject to recombination resulting in an even larger number of T cell clones each with its own antigen response.

    Other ideas on treatment

    Stem cell therapy.
    Stem cell therapy may well help with treatment. There is a relatively new idea using an autologous stem cell therapy. Here, dormant stem cells are harvested by liposuction of about 100ml of abdominal fat, cleaning up, activating the stem cells and reinjecting, all performed in four hours and the patient goes home or back to work. No side affects or rejection is possible as the stem cells are from their own body. Costs for this treatment vary across countries but as a guide it will be twenty to thirty thousand dollars.

    Improve the immune response using antioxidants
    As with all diseases there is no known ‘silver bullet’. As such it is recommended to apply a holistic approach to improvement over time. Exercise is an important part of any health improvement – it moves toxic lymph, helps detox the body and stimulates the immune system when done in moderation.

    Excessive exercise can lead to health issues and is not recommended – use a common sense approach – don’t push beyond a sensible level.

    Use a powerful antioxidant formula such as CoQ10Sport (read more on the website) as a base protocol and then add supplements such as mineral formulations (Cell Food – available in most countries) and amino acids to help support the function and structure of tissues. Primarily, it is important to stimulate the mitochondria. CoQ10Sport contains both coenzyme q10 and lipoic acid – this powerful blend supports the immune system and aids the mitochondria to proliferate thereby producing substantial energy as adenosine triphosphate(ATP). ATP is a most important ingredient in supporting the health and function of cells.

    Diet
    Employ the advice of a suitable practitioner for appropriate diet. A diet consisting of fresh and raw food will beat any other diet when it comes to health improvement – it is advised to get assistance.

    As a disease is the result of multiple and random variations in the immune system, it is a compelling argument to support the function of the immune system.

    It is recommended to use a suitable practitioner to manage any protocol.

    Ron Campeanu MRACI Chartered Chemist

    References

    The Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy, Chp 146

    Human Physiology and Mechanisms of Disease, Guyton, A., Hall, J., sixth edition, WB Saunders

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  • As someone who is searching for Q10 you are looking for a product that is affordable and effective.

    As a first off trial offer, you, the customer can now buy only one bottle of 60 vegecapsules of CoQ10Sport at $50AUD+shipping - delivered anywhere.

    After that you will have access to the Members Area where you have regular increased buying power as you will want more than just one bottle. And you get fantastic deals in buying amino acids and other products.

    CoQ10 Sport is a very effective energy producing formula. We were the first to bring out this style of formula using both q10 and lipoic acid - it is still a very effective formula.

    Plus there is the added benefit of knowing that it is made in Australia under GMP manufacturing conditions and registered as a Listed Medicine.

    The capsules are made of vegetable material and so are suitable for all tastes and diets.

    The effect of the Q10 is enhanced by the presence of lipoic acid. Lipoic acid regenerates Q10 and gives your body much more use from what you are paying for.

    CoQ10 Sport is rigidly tested in Australian laboratories for microbiological and chemical substances. It must pass all tests before being allowed onto the market.

    This gives you, the customer, confidence in using the product.

    CoQ10Sport has been packed in a black plastic bottle to totally stop all light - light in the form of ultraviolet rays, even in shops, can slowly degrade the Q10 - this cannot happen with CoQ10 Sport. Every batch has stability testing using higher than ambient temperature. At controlled temperature between 10 and 20 degrees C in our coolroom, we have seen that even after a two year test, the amount of Q10 in the capsule has not varied - this shows exceptional value in the product for you the customer.

    Ideal place for storage
    In all areas where temperatures may vary considerably away from the ideal 10 to 20 degrees Celsius (at any time) we do recommend that you keep the product in your refrigerator door area - the refrigerator door area is least susceptible to temperature fluctuations - you do not want to freeze the product but it is very stable even at 5 degrees Celsius.

    So, before choosing a Q10 product, you now have some idea of quality considerations and you can decide if that product is suitable for you.

    We encourage your feedback about what the product has done for you.

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  • Keeping Healthy

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    31 Jan 2009 /  Health Series

    During my Reiki treatments I have discovered some aspects of health that I will share.

    People have come to me presenting with many different health issues. Some discomfort is quick and easy to correct (believe it) with Reiki while some is not easily or quickly corrected.

    The light symptoms always arise from the type of thought. This thought has led to a slow blocking of energy that manifests as a discomfort or dis-ease.

    With all the pressures of living it is understandable that people (and even non-human animals) succumb to stress induced dis-ease.

    So, what to do about it?

    If you have ever applied for a loan to buy something like a house or vehicle then you will have been asked to write down your assets and liabilities - on the left side of the page might go your assets while on the right go your liabilities.

    In the same way you can write details of your lifestyle.

    Divide a page lengthwise into two columns.
    In the left column write - points - relating to the things in your life that make you feel good or have given you uplifting memories.
    In the right column write - points - relating to all the things in your life that have made you feel bad, cleaned you out of energy or health and have given you bad memories that ‘make you sick’.

    Be truthful and don’t hold back - it’s your life and this is for you, so you can correct your life and make it fulfilling.

    Your life depends on only a few basic things - really - the rest is made up stuff that you do not need eg tension, stress, worry, disease.

    Shelter, Food, Procreation, Emotional Stability are the basics.

    Surrounding these basics we make up a huge number of things that begin to complicate and cloud our vision of life.

    This is not a psychological article but a commonsense and practical approach to basic needs and simple life giving instructions, based on experience, that if you follow them must help lead you to a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle. I did not mention money - money will not make your life fulfilling - it is the correct use of it that determines whether your life will be fulfilling and that includes helping others - not necessarily only giving others money, but showing them how money can lead to a happy and fulfilling life through training and support.

    Basic Needs

    Shelter
    THINK about what makes you feel comfortable first then using that image look for appropriate shelter - house, apartment etc

    Food
    THINK about what makes you feel good and find food that supports that idea - fresh fruit and vegetables, a small  portion of good quality meat/fish if necessary, fresh, clean water.

    Procreation
    A normal adult need for most. According to personal philosophy you will search for an appropriate partner in life - supportive, caring, gentle, understanding, sharing. All the attributes that make life worthwhile.

    Emotional Stability
    All the aspects of the above three Needs that link together to produce a lifestyle that is fulfilling.

    Secondary Need

    Exercise
    One aspect that I have not placed as a prime need is exercise. It is not a basic need or requirement, as if you lead a balanced lifestyle you will get what you require. However, daily exercise is very important as it moves that toxic fluid around your body for removal by the kidneys and liver - the LYMPH fluid.

    There is one thing for certain - if the body does not get adequate exercise the lymph fluid will become toxic and so will the body.

    Exercise must be done daily to maintain bodily systems. You MUST sweat and raise your heart rate for at least 20 to 30 minutes every day.

    This also results in increased breathing or respiration. The body is excreting gases, fluids and toxins directly through the skin. You must drink adequate amounts of clean water - ozonated water is the best, while any water that is subjected to a multi wave oscillator (MWO) will be ‘refined’ in about ten to fifteen minutes to a sweet taste - the energy of the MWO helps destroy toxins and changes the ‘vibration’ of the water molecules - seeing is believing. The body also changes when exposed to MWO energy - more energy, change in health.

    Chinese Medicine such as acupuncture, moxibustion and herbs are simple and powerful methods to help you maintain the body without the need for drugs and chemicals. It is a powerful support for the body. Speak with a local Chinese Medicine practitioner to find out more. It can be a benefit to prevent dis-ease rather than try to ‘cure’ it. Remember the body needs to ‘cure’ itself - everything else is either an aid or a deterrent to help that healing take place.

    Fluid Processing
    This fluid is processed through the kidneys, liver and lungs - yes lungs. Lungs are linked directly to the skin and through many different glands (sreat glands) fluid is excreted through the skin, in sweat.

    Kidneys remove excess salts and chemical compounds like vitamins, drugs, sugars, proteins and others - a myriad of compounds.

    The liver is the filter of blood. So whatever you put into your body ends up in your blood - to act as nutrition. Unfortunately we have learnt that there are some compounds that make us ‘feel good’ - for example, alcohol, nicotine, various drugs, nitrous oxide gas and numerous others. These are all dangerous to the body in whatever form. Some countries have recognized this eg Arab countries - well done. Wheras most areas in the world have persisted in the use of these compounds as it is an accepted part of the economic system not the health system. Although, paradoxically, the continued use and abuse of ‘legal’ drugs leads to a health system that cannot cope - it must make you wonder?

    Summary

    The way back to health is to recognise that the body need clean water, the correct food, the right exercise and the right thoughts. Thoughts start all things in motion but the mind is difficult to control - the biggest fight is always against the self. If you fight others you are fighting yourself - so stop it!

    The essential organs responsible for detoxification are the Kidneys, liver and lungs. Of course all organs are linked and responsible but I am putting this is basic terms.

    Thought is the primary force responsible for all acts, health and human events. All events are the result of thought first action second - no exceptions!
    So consider your life in the context of the lives of all others - why is the world like it is - the complete balance of the earth is the result of cumulative thought of all individuals.

    How would you like to see the earth - it starts with you and your thoughts!

    Ron Campeanu

    References

    1. Human Physiology and Mechanisms of Disease, Guyton, A.C. and Hall, J.E., sixth edition, WB Saunders.
    2. A Manual of Acupuncture, Deadman, P.and Al-Khafaji, M, Journal of Chinese Medicine Publications.
    3. From the many years in Jujitsu training for my Shodan Jujitsu.

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  • 22 Jan 2009 /  Health Series

    I have been studying Chinese Medicine - Acupuncture - and find that it has contributed to the welfare of my family, friends and clients.

    For example I recently used moxa treatment for a shingle issue in the left scapula area on a family member.

    A standard moxa stick was moved around and between the lesions starting from the left side of the spine - treatment duration was around 10 minutes and was done twice in two days.

    The technique is to place the moxa at points around each discrete lesion and move it around at 2-2.5cm(1″) intervals each time the heat is ‘felt’.

    All pain was gone and the family member has not suffered with any further pain or discomfort from the viral attack on the nerves in this area.

    This is a non invasive and safe treatment but I recommend that it be done by someone who has studied the moxa technique.

    The family member also took an increased dose of lipoic acid for 3-4 days at 1200mg per day which helps with peripheral neuropathy (nerve pain outside the spinal column).

    Reference:

    1.  Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Cheng Xinnong(chief editor), Foreign Languages Press, Beijing, China
    2.  acupuncture-services.com

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  • 16 Jan 2009 /  Health Series

    The movie Patch Adams showed that laughter in hospitals produced  a very desirable healing effect on children.(1)

    The movie relates the true life story of Hunter “Patch” Adams (played by  Robin Williams), a  medical doctor who became famous for his unconventional approach to medicine.

    He found that laughter produced healing as the body produces endorphins (a relaxing and feel good chemical) that has far ranging healing effects.

    Technical Aspects of how it works

    The endorphins are a common name for a complex group of chemicals made in the brain that have opiate attributes. That is, they produce analgesia or lower pain - like morphine.

    Over 40 years ago it was discovered that injection of minute quantities of morphine into an area of the brain stem could induce an exteme degree of analgesia. In further studies it was found that opiates (like morphine) act at many other points in the analgesia system including the dorsal horns of the spinal cord. Most drugs that excite neurons (nerve cells) do so by acting on synaptic receptors so it was assumed that there must be a natural morhine like neurotransmitter made by the brain.

    About a dozen opiate like substances have been found in different areas of the nervous system and they are all breakdown products of large proteins: proopiomelanocortin, proenkephalin and prodynorphin. Multiple areas of the brain have opiate receptors.

    The more important products are: B- endorphin, met-enkephalin, leu-enkephalin and dynorphin.

    The above two enkephalins are found in the brain stem and spinal cord along with a very small amount of dynorphin, while B-endorphin is found in the hypothalamus and pituitary gland.

    Activation of the analgesic system by stimulation of nervous signals results in the inactivation of pain - how, is not really understood, but it happens.

    It has also been found that tactile (touch) signals from the stimulation of the large AB sensory fibres from peripheral tactile sensors can depress the transmission of pain, presumably from “local lateral inhibition in the spinal cord”. This can explain why rubbing the skin near painful areas results in less pain and why rubbing liniments result in less pain - it is the rubbing, not really the liniment.

    This also explains why excitation of the central analgesic system results in pain relief by acupuncture.(2)

    Patch Adams found that healing resulted from the laughter. The technical information above was to show some of the cascade of reactions that can occur from laughter - it stimulates the brain which is a massive collection of nervous tissue (neurons).

    There has been evidence that laughter has cured ankylospondylitis - a man used funny movies and in six months was totally cured of this terminal disease. (3)

    Adults laugh about 14 times per day while children laugh about 400 times - we become more serious as we get older and as is obvious in our society - more ill.

    What to avoid

    In Hospitals, aged care homes and rehabilitation areas - leave patients alone without stimulation or healing touch. Remember people are not vegetables!

    The Remedy

    Introduce laughter and touch (such as massage, acupuncture, holding someone) in Hospitals , Aged Care homes, Rehabilitation Centres.

    So the best medicine both in hospitals and at home may well be laughter and the healing touch of someone who cares!

    Don’t be too clinical - life and healing is dynamic and our approach must also be dynamic. Laughter, touch and a smile is all dynamic and healing.

    Ron Campeanu

    References:

    1. The Definitive Book of Body Language, Allan and Barbara Pease, PP79-85, McPhersons Publishers.

    2. Medical Physiology, Arthur C Guyton and John E Hall, PP556-557, WB Saunders.

    3. The Definitive Book of Body Language, Allan and Barbara Pease, PP81, McPhersons Publishers.

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  • Five Elements

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    15 Jan 2009 /  Living Series

    Five Elements

    There is no absolute law in the system of the Five Elements.

    The classical Chinese view of the universe denies the possibility of absolutes.
    The laws of the Five Elements are descriptions of the tendencies toward transformation within the framework of Five Elements.

    As a convention of expression, the energies of the Five Elements may be said to possess the following creative powers.

    Wood tends to create Fire
    Fire tends to create Earth
    Earth tends to create Metal
    Metal tends to create Water
    Water tends to create Wood

    The Controlling Cycle brings harmony and balance via complementary and opposite tendencies.
    It is a check in what would otherwise be an unending increase.

    The Controlling Cycle

    Wood tends to control Earth
    Earth tends to control Water
    Water tends to control Fire
    Fire tends to control Metal
    Metal tends to control Wood

    Broken Balance

    The Over Acting and Insulting sequences handle the abnormal relationship among the Five Elements when the balance is broken.

    The Over Acting Cycle is the same pattern as the Controlling Cycle except each Element over-acts on another by one Element being in excess energetically.

    The Insulting Cycle is the reverse of the Over Acting Cycle. This cycle handles energetics that is opposite to the Over Acting Cycle.

    The Five Elements have Ten Stems

    Each Element has a Yin and Yang component, each balancing the other as in the nature Yin-Yang.

    If Yang rises, Yin depresses
    If Yin rises, Yang depresses
    If Yang depresses, Yin rises
    If Yin depresses, Yang rises

    This produces a complementary and opposite balance within each Element.

    Ten Celestial Stems Creation Cycle

    The arrangement of the Ten Celestial Stems following the tendencies of the Creative Cycle shows how the Yang aspects create each other and the Yin aspects create each other.
    Were there no check on the tendencies to create, the result would be a compounding increase of the energies from one Element to the other.

    One way this is checked and balanced is by the Yin and Yang aspects of each Element throughout the system balancing each other.

    Another way the system remains in balance is by the Yin or Yang aspect of any Element balancing on the Controlling Cycle the Yang or Yin aspect of the Element it controls.

    These tendencies are shown here.

    Ten Celestial Stems
    Controlling Cycle Balances

    The balances are bi-directional following a Yin-Yang pattern. If Yin increases Yang decreases and vice versa.

    Wood Yin created by Water Yin creates Fire Yin.
    Fire Yin creates Earth Yin creating Metal Yin, which creates Water Yin.

    The Yang aspects are similar to the above Yin energetics.

    The whole system is a delicate balance of all the parts.
    In perfect harmony, this system continues to generate and maintain itself, but if any disharmony or imbalance occurs anywhere in the system, any number of transformations of this imbalance can occur.

    The influence of transformations may produce symptoms considered as adverse effects. Some transformations have no symptoms.
    The Yin-Yang energetics of any Element can affect the other Element in a way depending on the relative strength of either Yin or Yang.
    Balance is the key to harmony.

    I would like to quote a passage from the Lu Shih Chhun Chhiu. The author of this quote stresses very elegantly the importance of movement and the dangers of stagnation.

    “The reason the water in the stream remains vital, yet stationary water does not, and the hinge does not age, yet the rest of the door does, is because they are moving.
    The relationship of the form and Chi is the same.

    If the form does not move, the Jing does not stream. If the Jing does not stream the Chi becomes stagnant.
    If the stagnation is in the head, it becomes like a tumour or like wind. If the stagnation is in the ear, it will cause deafness.”
    In the Lun Hung from 82 or 83 AD, Chhung points out, “Disease is like confusion and chaos. The Jing and Shen become confused and mixed up.”

    The Huai Nan Tzu emphasizes the complementary view. Order is the “passing through without disturbance” that enables action.

    The exciting implication of this is that if we understand this order and facilitate it, we become more capable.

    References:     Foundations of Chinese Medicine, Macioca, G, Churchill Livingstone
    Five Elements and Ten Stems, Nan Ching Theory, Diagnostics and Practice, Kiiko Matsumota and Stephen Birch, pp27-33

    Authors Note: This assignment was written with a fundamental and holistic approach to the Five Elements incorporating the Ten Stems, which Macioca ignores.

    I have found this relationship, using the Ten Stems to be a vital and integral approach and to be a much better guide to energetics, symptoms, disease and diagnosis.

    Ron Campeanu

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  • 14 Jan 2009 /  Health Series

    Myasthenia Gravis

    1. Discussion on the normal function of the neuromuscular junction

    Introduction

    Myasthenia gravis (MG) is the most common primary disorder of neuromuscular transmission. The usual cause is an acquired immunological abnormality, but some cases result from genetic abnormalities at the neuromuscular junction. Much has been learned about the pathophysiology and immunopathology of myasthenia gravis during the past 20 years. What was once a relatively obscure condition of interest primarily to neurologists is now the best characterized and understood autoimmune disease. A wide range of potentially effective treatments are available, many of which have implications for the treatment of other autoimmune disorders.

    The function of the neuromuscular response in skeletal muscle

    Small vesicles about 40 nanometres (40×10-9 M) in size are formed by the Golgi apparatus in the cell body of the motor neuron in the spinal cord. These vesicles are then transported by streaming of the axoplasm through the core of the axon from the central cell body of the spinal cord all the way to the neuromuscular junction at the tips of the nerve fibres. About 300,000 of these small vesicles collect in the nerve terminals of a single skeletal muscle end plate.

    Acetylcholine is synthesized in the cytosol of the terminal nerve fibres but is then transported through the membranes of the vesicles to their interior, where it is stored in highly concentrated form, with about 10,000 molecules of acetylcholine in each vesicle.

    Under resting conditions, an occasional vesicle fuses with the surface membrane of the nerve terminal and releases it’s acetylcholine into the synaptic gutter. When this occurs, a so-called miniature end plate potential, about 0.4 mV in intensity and lasting for a few milliseconds, occurs in the local area of the muscle fibre because of the action of this ‘packet’ of 10,000 acetylcholine molecules.

    When an action potential arrives at the nerve terminal, it opens many calcium channels in the membrane of the terminal because this terminal has an abundance of voltage-gated calcium channels. As a result, the calcium ion concentration in the terminal increases about 100-fold, which in turn increases the rate of fusion of the acetylcholine vesicles with the terminal membrane about 10,000-fold. As each vesicle fuses, its fusion surface ruptures through the cell membrane, thus causing exocytosis of acetylcholine into the synaptic space.  About 125 vesicles usually rupture with each action potential. The acetylcholine is then split by acetylcholinesterase into acetate ion and choline and the choline is reabsorbed actively into the neural terminal to be reused in forming new acetylcholine. This sequence of events occurs within a period of 5 to 10 milliseconds.

    Those acetylcholine able to make contact with the protein receptors on the motor end plate of the sarcolemma (the sheath surrounding a muscle fibre) activate the sodium channel and thus allow sodium ions to flow through the ion gate. This sets up a voltage difference on each side of the sarcolemma, an alternating polarity on the outside and inside. This potential difference spreads immediately along the  muscle fibre inducing calcium to be released from the cisternae of the sarcoplasmic reticulum. The calcium binds to troponin on the thin filament exposing the site for myosin which binds to actin swivels and releases. The calcium is actively pumped back into the cisternae when the ion channel closes and the muscle contraction ceases.

    The number of vesicles available in the nerve ending is sufficient to allow transmission of only a few thousand nerve-to-muscle impulses. Therefore, for continued function of the neuromuscular junction, the vesicles need to be reformed rapidly. Within a few seconds after the action potential is over, coated-pits appear in the terminal nerve membrane, caused by contractile proteins in the nerve ending, especially the protein clathrin, attached to the membrane in the area of the original vesicles. Within about 20 seconds, the proteins contract and cause the pits to break away to the interior of the membrane, forming new vesicles. Within another few seconds, acetylcholine is transported to the interior of these vesicles and they are then ready for a new cycle of acetylcholine release.

    Smooth Muscle

    Skeletal Muscle fibres are activated exclusively by the nervous system, whereas, smooth muscle can be stimulated to contract by multiple types of signals such as nervous signals, hormonal stimulation, stretch of the muscle and some other ways. The main reason for the difference is that the smooth muscle membrane contains many types of receptor proteins that can initiate the contractile process. Other receptor proteins inhibit smooth muscle contraction, which is another difference from skeletal muscle. Smooth muscle is not subject to Myasthenia Gravis as contraction does not rely on the acetylcholine –acetylcholinesterase ‘make-break’ relationship

    Cardiac Muscle

    Purkinje fibres which discharge between 15 to 140 times per minute stimulate the heart. It is not subject to the acetylcholine –acetylcholinesterase ‘make-break’ relationship and is not subject to Myasthenia Gravis.

    2. Pathophysiology of Myasthenia Gravis

    The normal neuromuscular junction releases acetylcholine (ACh) from the motor nerve terminal in discrete packages or quanta. The ACh quanta diffuse across the synaptic cleft and bind to receptors on the folded muscle end-plate membrane. Stimulation of the motor nerve releases many ACh quanta that depolarize the muscle end-plate region and then the muscle membrane causing muscle contraction. In acquired myasthenia gravis, the post-synaptic muscle membrane is distorted and simplified, having lost its normal folded shape. The concentration of ACh receptors on the muscle end-plate membrane is reduced and antibodies are attached to the membrane. ACh is released normally, but its effect on the post-synaptic membrane is reduced. The post-junctional membrane is less sensitive to applied ACh, and the probability that any nerve impulse will cause a muscle action potential is reduced.

    Diagnosis
    A delay in diagnosis of one or two years is not unusual in cases of myasthenia gravis. Because weakness is a common symptom of many other disorders, the diagnosis is often missed in people who experience mild weakness or in those whose weakness is restricted to only a few muscles.

    The first steps of diagnosing myasthenia gravis include a review of the individual’s medical history, and physical and neurological examinations. The signs a practitioner must look for are impairment of eye movements or muscle weakness without any changes in the individual’s ability to feel things. If the practitioner suspects myasthenia gravis, several tests are available to confirm the diagnosis.

    A special blood test can detect the presence of immune molecules or acetylcholine receptor antibodies. Most patients with myasthenia gravis have abnormally elevated levels of these antibodies. However, antibodies may not be detected in patients with only ocular forms of the disease.

    Another test is called the edrophonium test. This test requires the intravenous administration of edrophonium chloride or Tensilon, a drug that blocks the degradation or breakdown of acetylcholine and temporarily increases the levels of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction. In people with myasthenia gravis involving the eye muscles, edrophonium chloride will briefly relieve weakness. Other methods to confirm the diagnosis include a version of nerve conduction study which tests for specific muscle “fatigue” by repetitive nerve stimulation. This test records weakening muscle responses when the nerves are repetitively stimulated. Repetitive stimulation of a nerve during a nerve conduction study may demonstrate decrements of the muscle action potential due to impaired nerve-to-muscle transmission.

    A different test called single fiber electromyography (EMG), in which single muscle fibers are stimulated by electrical impulses, can also detect impaired nerve-to-muscle transmission. EMG measures the electrical potential of muscle cells. Muscle fibers in myasthenia gravis, as well as other neuromuscular disorders, do not respond as well to repeated electrical stimulation compared to muscles from normal individuals. Computed tomography (CT) may be used to identify an abnormal thymus gland or the presence of a thymoma.

    A special examination called pulmonary function testing - which measures breathing strength - helps to predict whether respiration may fail and lead to a myasthenic crisis.

    The importance of the Thymus Gland
    Thymic abnormalities are clearly associated with myasthenia gravis but the nature of the association is uncertain.

    Although all the lymphocytes of the body originate from the lymphocytic committed stem cells of the embryo, these stem cells themselves are incapable of forming directly either activated T lymphocytes or antibodies. They must be further differentiated in appropriate processing areas in the thymus or in B-cell processing areas.

    The T-lymphocytes, after their origin in the bone marrow, first migrate to the thymus gland. Here they divide rapidly and at the same time develop extreme diversity for reacting against different specific antigens. For example, one of the thymic lymphocytes develops specific reactivity against one antigen. Then the next lymphocyte develops specificity against another antigen. This continues until there are different types of thymic lymphocytes with specific reactivities against millions of different antigens. These different types of processed T lymphocytes leave the thymus and spread by blood throughout the body to lodge in all lymphoid tissue.

    The thymus also makes certain that any T lymphocyte leaving the thymus will not react against proteins or other antigens that are present in the body’s own tissues, otherwise that T lymphocyte would be lethal to the person’s own body in only a few days. The thymus selects which T lymphocytes will be released by first mixing them with virtually all the specific self antigens from the body’s own tissues. If a T lymphocyte reacts it is destroyed and phagocytized instead of being released – this happens to about 90% of cells. The cells that are released are those that are nonreactive against the body’s own antigens – that is they react only with antigens from an outside source such as from a bacterium, a toxin or transplanted tissue.

    Most of the preprocessing of the T lymphocytes in the thymus occurs shortly before birth and a few months after birth. After birth, removal of the thymus gland diminishes but doesn’t eliminate the  lymphocytic immune system.

    Removal of the thymus several months before birth can prevent development of all cell mediated immunity. So performing an organ transplant after that time will not result in organ or tissue rejection.

    Ten percent of patients with myasthenia gravis have a thymic tumor and 70% have hyperplastic changes (germinal centers) that indicate an active immune response. These are areas within lymphoid tissue where B-cells interact with helper T-cells to produce antibodies.

    Because the thymus is the central organ for immunological self-tolerance, it is reasonable to suspect that thymic abnormalities cause the breakdown in tolerance that causes an immune-mediated attack on acetylcholine receptors (AChR) in myasthenia gravis.

    The thymus contains all the necessary elements for the pathogenesis of myasthenia gravis: myoid cells that express the AChR antigen, antigen presenting cells, and immunocompetent T-cells.

    Thymus tissue from patients with myasthenia gravis produces AChR antibodies when implanted into immunodeficient mice. However, it is still uncertain whether the role of the thymus in the pathogenesis of myasthenia gravis is primary or secondary.

    Most thymic tumors in patients with myasthenia gravis are benign, well-differentiated and encapsulated, and can be removed completely at surgery. It is unlikely that thymomas result from chronic thymic hyperactivity because myasthenia gravis can develop years after thymoma removal. Patients with thymoma usually have more severe disease and higher levels of AChR antibodies. Almost 20% of patients with myasthenia gravis whose symptoms began between the ages of 30 and 60 years have thymoma; the frequency is much lower when symptom onset is after age 60.

    Myasthenia Gravis, like many other autoimmune diseases is an acquired deficiency disease. Like AIDS, HIV, Lupus, Chronic Fatigue (Epstein Barr Virus) and many other acquired issues.

    The body has a history of coping with many incidences of cancer and there is proof that at certain times autopsy has shown that the body has handled cancer while the host was unaware.

    Sometimes the body needs some help in order for the system to regain balance and return to a homeostatic balance. Certain machines such as the electric pulsers, electromagnetic pulsers and high energy from  multiwave oscillators can help kill pathogens within the body. Although no treatment is certain, it is preferable to have many tools available for treatment.

    Treatment

    Current medical treatment is the administration of alkaloids such as neostigmine and physostigmine. These wear off in a few hours. Antibodies to acetylcholine-receptor protein function at the motor end plate on the sarcolemma causes muscle inoperability. This eventually results in fibre atrophy. Atrophied fibres have actually been rebuilt as satellite cells on the sarcolemma have the ability to rebuild muscle fibre. Myasthenia Gravis is an autoimmune disease and as such may be reversed by appropriate treatment.

    Discoveries in treating thymic disorders (where T-lymphocytes differentiate) may well be the starting place to recover the immune system. EM Pulse to thymus and blood electrification may be a reasonable starting point.

    Ron Campeanu

    References:

    Textbook of Medical Physiology, Guyton,A.C. and Hall, J.E, 10th edn., WB Saunders

    Anatomy and Physiology, Tortora, G.J. and Grabowski, S.R., 10th ed., Wiley

    Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy

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  • 14 Jan 2009 /  Health Series

    Atherosclerosis - the basics.

    Normal Function of the Arterial System

    It is important to understand the meaning of atherosclerosis and definitions of the disease help to show the meaning.

    Atherosclerosis - definition
    A form of atherosclerosis characterized by patchy subintimal thickening (atheromas) of medium and large arteries, which can reduce or obstruct blood flow.

    Arteriosclerosis - definition
    A generic term for several diseases in which the arterial wall becomes thickened and loses elasticity.

    Sclero - hardening
    Arterio - arteries

    Arteries
    Large elastic arteries carry blood from the heart, they divide into medium sized, muscular arteries branching throughout the body.
    Medium sized arteries divide into small arteries which divide further into smaller arteries called arterioles.
    Arterioles entering tissues branch into many very small blood vessels called capillaries which, through their very thin walls allow exchange of substances between the blood and tissues.

    Inside tissues, groups of capillaries unite to form small veins or venules. These venules merge to form veins. The veins return blood to the heart. Blood vessels, like all tissues, also need nutrients plus O2. The larger vessels are served by their own blood vessels terms vasa vasorum (vasculature of vessels). These are located within the walls of the major vessels.

    Arterial Wall
    Composed of three coats (tunics)
    Innermost
    Tunica intima (internal)
    Composed of a layer of simple squamous epithelium called endothelium, a basement membrane plus a layer of elastic tissue, the interal elastic lamina.

    The endothelium lies in the inner surface of the entire cardiovascular system and is a continuous layer of cells. It is the only tissue that under normal conditions, makes contact with the blood inside the lumen (hollow centre of the vessels).

    Middle
    Tunica Media
    Usually the thickest layer. Composed of elastic and smooth muscle fibres or cells extending in a circle around the tunica intima. Due to elastic fibres, arteries normally have high compliance or stretch as pressure varies.

    Outer
    Tunica Externa
    Elastic and collagen fibres. In muscular arteries an external elastic lamina composed of elastic tissue separates the tunica externa from the tunica media.

    Contraction and Dilation of Arteries
    Neurons of the autonomic nervous system innervate vascular smooth muscle causing vasoconstriction - narrowing of vessels.
    The smooth muscle fibres relax when sympathetic stimulation decreases or when some chemicals are present such as NO, K+, H+ and lactic acid.

    Vaso Dilation
    Elastic arteries or large diameter arteries. The tunica media contains a large amount of elastic fibres. The arteries help propel the blood while the ventricles of the heart relax before the next cycle. The elastic fibres store mechanical energy for a short time and function as a pressure reservoir. The elastic arteries recoil and continue to deliver blood while the ventricles relax by converting potential energy to kinetic energy.

    Blood keeps moving through the arteries even while the ventricles are relaxed. Cholesterol is a key player in the formation of arterial plaques.

    A diet high in fats results in the reabsorption of cholesterol-containing bile back to the blood, so less of the cholesterol is lost in faeces.

    Also, when saturated fats are broken down, hepatocytes (in the liver) use some of the breakdown products to make cholesterol.

    So a diet high in saturated fats results in higher cholesterol in the blood. The lipid profile test measures Total Cholesterol (TC), High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) and Triglycerides (VLDL’s) while the Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) is calculated as:
    LDL = TC - HDL - (VLDL/S) mg/dL (mg/100ml blood)
    Adults levels are:
    TC < 200 mg/dL
    LDL < 130 mg/dL
    HDL < 40 mg/dL
    Triglycerides 10 - 190 mg/dL

    Coronary artery disease rises as Total Cholesterol rises. The risk of heart attack doubles with every 50mg/dL (1.3mml/L) greater than 200mg/dL (5.2mml/L).

    Total Cholesterol of 200-300 mg/dL and LDL of 130-159 mg/dL are high.
    Levels of Total Cholesterol >239 mg/dL and LDL>159 mg/dL are very high.

    The ratio of Total Cholesterol to HDL cholesterol will predict the risk of coronary artery disease. A person with a Total Cholesterol of 180 mg/dL and HDL of 60 mg/dL has a risk ratio of 3. Ratios above 4 are not desirable and the higher the ratio the greater the risk of heart disease or coronary artery disease.

    Pathogenesis of Atherosclerosis

    Definition
    Arteriosclerosis
    A generic term for several diseases in which the arterial wall becomes thickened and loses elasticity.

    Atherosclerosis
    A form of arteriosclerosis characterized by patchy subintimal thickening (atheromas) of medium and large arteries, which can reduce to obstruct blood flow.

    Sclerosis - Fibrosis

    Causes
    . high circulation LDL
    . cytomegolovirus ( a common herpes virus)
    . high blood glucose (diabetes mellitus)

    Thought to begin by one of the above causing injury to endothelium of an artery, promoting aggregation of platelets and attracting phagocytes.

    The prevalence of clinical manifestations of artherosclerosis in general, increases in post menopausal women and begins to approach that in age-matched men.

    Pathogenesis/Pathology
    Atherosclerosis consists of an accumulation of intra and extra cellular lipids, connective tissue, glycosaminoglycans and smooth muscle cells.

    Early detection of atherosclerosis plaque is in the form of lipid-laden foam cells.
    These are macrophages which have migrated as monocytes from circulation into the subendothelial layer of the intima, that later form into fibrous plaque. This consists of intimal smooth muscle cells surrounded by connective tissue and both intra and extra cellular lipids.

    Atherosclerotic vessels have reduced systolic (contractile) expansion and high wave propagation.
    People with hypertension who have arterosclerotic arteries have reduced elasticity, further reduced when atherosclerosis develops.

    There is a probable relation between two proposed hypotheses for the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis which are the lipid hypothesis and the chronic endothelial injury hypothesis.

    There is a close link between these two hypotheses. Modified LDL is cytotoxic to endothelial cells. This may induce injury, attracting monocytes and macrophages which develop into foam cells and become trapped in the endothelial space. The atherosclerotic plaque develops and grows slowly, taking decades. Over time, vessels become occluded and calcified. Plaques rich in lipids and inflammatory cells may be covered by a thin fibrous cap which may rupture, contacting the contents with blood.

    The rupture in the plaque can stimulate thrombosis which may embolize (clot) and occlude the lumen of the vessel either locally (perhaps distally) or proximal to lung and heart vessels.

    Atherosclerosis is characteristically silent until critical sclerosis, thrombosis, aneurysm or embolus manifests.

    In the early stages, symptoms and signs reflect an inability of blood flow to the affected tissue to increase with demand eg angina when exerted.
    Symptoms develop gradually as the atheroma encroaches on the vessel lumen but symptoms may be dramatic if a main artery is occluded.

    Basic Causes of Atherosclerosis - Roles of Cholesterol and Lipoproteins

    The most important factor causing atherosclerosis is a high blood plasma count of cholesterol as LDL’s. The blood plasma concentration of LDL Cholesterol is directly increased by eating saturated fats and any form of cholesterol.

    Both can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis.
    It has been found by feeding rabbits cholesterol via their diet that serious atherosclerotic plaques developed throughout their arterial system.

    Arteriosclerotic arteries lose most of their distensibility and because of the degenerative areas in their walls, they are easily ruptured.
    Where the plaques protrude in the flowing blood, the roughness of their surfaces causes blood clots to develop, resulting in thrombosis or embolus, which can suddenly block all blood flow in the artery.

    Atheroma - a tumour
    Skleros - hard
    Sis - condition or process

    Endocytosis - normal cholesterol entry to cell
    Cholesterol - receptor mediated endocytosis
    Cholesterol is essential for membrane structure and for synthesis of steroid hormones. However, elevated cholesterol can lead to heart disease. Cholesterol is a water soluble nonpolar molecule which needs to bind to a lipoprotein carrier molecule for transport in the blood.

    The most common lipoprotein is LDL (low density lipoprotein). LDL cholesterol is taken into the cells by endocytosis when LDL receptors on the cell plasma membrane bind to the protein portion.
    People with an inherited genetic defect that decreases the number of LDL receptors on the cell membrane cannot transport enough cholesterol into their cells, so LDL cholesterol stays in the blood plasma.
    This may result in abnormally high blood levels of LDL cholesterol which predisposes the person to the development of atherosclerosis or commonly known as hardening of the arteries.
    The accumulation of cholesterol in blood blocks blood flow and contributes to heart attacks.

    Ron Campeanu

    Atherosclerosis
    References:
    1. Human Physiology, Dee Unglaub Silverthorn, p 145-146, Pearsons

    2. Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy, p 1654-1658, Merck

    3. Principles of Anatomy and Physiology, Tortora,G.J & Grabowsky,S.R., p 697-699, 921, Wiley

    4. Textbook of Medical Physiology, Guyton, A.C. MD and Hall,J.E. PhD, p 789, Saunders

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