greenmedinfo--2020-07-07--Transmission probability is strongly driven by indoor air quality, followed by patient infectiousnes

Transmission probability is strongly driven by indoor air quality, followed by patient infectiousness, and the least by respiratory protection from medical face mask use.

Dental health care workers are in close contact to their patients and are therefore at higher risk for contracting airborne infectious diseases .
The transmission rates of airborne pathogens from patient to dental health care workers are unknown .
With the outbreaks of infectious diseases , such as seasonal influenza , occasional outbreaks of measles and tuberculosis , and the current pandemic of the coronavirus disease COVID-19 , it is important to estimate the risks for dental health care workers .
Therefore , the transmission probability of these airborne infectious diseases was estimated via mathematical modeling .
The transmission probability @ @ @ @ @ @ @ influenza virus , and coronaviruses per a modified version of the Wells-Riley equation .
This equation incorporated the indoor air quality by using carbon dioxide as a proxy and added the respiratory protection rate from medical face masks and N95 respirators .
Scenario-specific analyses , uncertainty analyses , and sensitivity analyses were run to produce probability rates .
A high transmission probability was characterized by high patient infectiousness , the absence of respiratory protection , and poor indoor air quality .
The highest transmission probabilities were estimated for measles virus ( 100 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , influenza virus ( 89.4 % ) , and ( 84.0 % ) .
The low-risk scenario leads to transmission probabilities of 4.5 % for measles virus and 0 % for the other pathogens .
From the sensitivity analysis , it shows that the transmission probability is strongly driven by indoor air quality , followed by patient infectiousness , and the least by respiratory protection from medical face mask use .
Airborne infection transmission of pathogens such as measles virus and coronaviruses is likely to occur in the dental practice .
The risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on specific conditions in each dental clinic .
Improved indoor air quality by ventilation , which reduces carbon dioxide , is the most important factor that will either strongly increase or decrease the probability of the transmission of a pathogen .

Dental health care workers are in close contact to their patients and are therefore at higher risk for contracting airborne infectious diseases. The transmission rates of airborne pathogens from patient to dental health care workers are unknown. With the outbreaks of infectious diseases, such as seasonal influenza, occasional outbreaks of measles and tuberculosis, and the current pandemic of the coronavirus disease COVID-19, it is important to estimate the risks for dental health care workers. Therefore, the transmission probability of these airborne infectious diseases was estimated via mathematical modeling. The transmission probability was modeled for, measles virus, influenza virus, and coronaviruses per a modified version of the Wells-Riley equation. This equation incorporated the indoor air quality by using carbon dioxide as a proxy and added the respiratory protection rate from medical face masks and N95 respirators. Scenario-specific analyses, uncertainty analyses, and sensitivity analyses were run to produce probability rates. A high transmission probability was characterized by high patient infectiousness, the absence of respiratory protection, and poor indoor air quality. The highest transmission probabilities were estimated for measles virus (100%), coronaviruses (99.4%), influenza virus (89.4%), and(84.0%). The low-risk scenario leads to transmission probabilities of 4.5% for measles virus and 0% for the other pathogens. From the sensitivity analysis, it shows that the transmission probability is strongly driven by indoor air quality, followed by patient infectiousness, and the least by respiratory protection from medical face mask use. Airborne infection transmission of pathogens such as measles virus and coronaviruses is likely to occur in the dental practice. The risk magnitude, however, is highly dependent on specific conditions in each dental clinic. Improved indoor air quality by ventilation, which reduces carbon dioxide, is the most important factor that will either strongly increase or decrease the probability of the transmission of a pathogen.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-07--Surgical site infection rates did not increase when non‐scrubbed operating room personnel did not we

Surgical site infection rates did not increase when non‐scrubbed operating room personnel did not wear a face mask.

BACKGROUND : Ambiguity remains about the effectiveness of wearing surgical face masks .
The purpose of this study was to assess the impact on surgical site infections ( SSIs ) when non-scrubbed operating room staff did not wear surgical face masks .
METHODS : Eight hundred twenty-seven participants undergoing elective or emergency obstetric , gynecological , general , orthopaedic , breast or urological surgery in an Australian tertiary hospital were enrolled .
Complete follow-up data were available for 811 patients ( 98.1 % ) .
Operating room lists were randomly allocated to a 'Mask group ' ( all non-scrubbed staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ group ' ( none of the non-scrubbed staff wore masks ) .
The primary end point , SSI was identified using in-patient surveillance ; post discharge follow-up and chart reviews .
The patient was followed for up to six weeks .
RESULTS : Overall , 83 ( 10.2 % ) surgical site infections were recorded ; 46/401 ( 11.5 % ) in the Masked group and 37/410 ( 9.0 % ) in the No Mask group ; odds ratio ( OR ) 0.77 ( 95 % confidence interval ( CI ) 0.49 to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Independent risk factors for surgical site infection included : any pre-operative stay ( adjusted odds ratio [ aOR ] , 0.43 ( 95 % CI , 0.20 ; 0.95 ) , high BMI aOR , 0.38 ( 95 % CI , 0.17 ; 0.87 ) , and any previous surgical site infection aOR , 0.40 ( 95 % CI , 0.17 ; 0.89 ) .
CONCLUSION : Surgical site infection rates did not increase when non-scrubbed operating room personnel did not wear a face mask .

BACKGROUND: Ambiguity remains about the effectiveness of wearing surgical face masks. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact on surgical site infections (SSIs) when non-scrubbed operating room staff did not wear surgical face masks.
METHODS: Eight hundred twenty-seven participants undergoing elective or emergency obstetric, gynecological, general, orthopaedic, breast or urological surgery in an Australian tertiary hospital were enrolled. Complete follow-up data were available for 811 patients (98.1%). Operating room lists were randomly allocated to a 'Mask group' (all non-scrubbed staff wore a mask) or 'No Mask group' (none of the non-scrubbed staff wore masks). The primary end point, SSI was identified using in-patient surveillance; post discharge follow-up and chart reviews. The patient was followed for up to six weeks.
RESULTS: Overall, 83 (10.2%) surgical site infections were recorded; 46/401 (11.5%) in the Masked group and 37/410 (9.0%) in the No Mask group; odds ratio (OR) 0.77 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.49 to 1.21), p = 0.151. Independent risk factors for surgical site infection included: any pre-operative stay (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.43 (95% CI, 0.20; 0.95), high BMI aOR, 0.38 (95% CI, 0.17; 0.87), and any previous surgical site infection aOR, 0.40 (95% CI, 0.17; 0.89).
CONCLUSION: Surgical site infection rates did not increase when non-scrubbed operating room personnel did not wear a face mask.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-07--The wearing of face masks by non-scrubbed staff working in an operating room with forced ventilation

Following the commissioning of a new suite of operating rooms air movement studies showed a flow of air away from @ @ @ @ @ periphery of the room .
Oral microbial flora dispersed by unmasked male and female volunteers @ @ @ @ @ table failed to contaminate exposed settle plates placed on the table .
The wearing of @ @ @ @ @ working in an operating room with forced ventilation seems to be unnecessary .

Following the commissioning of a new suite of operating rooms air movement studies showed a flow of air away from the operating table towards the periphery of the room. Oral microbial flora dispersed by unmasked male and female volunteers standing one metre from the table failed to contaminate exposed settle plates placed on the table. The wearing of face masks by non-scrubbed staff working in an operating room with forced ventilation seems to be unnecessary.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-07--A face masks surface can become a contamination source.

The global outbreak of coronavirus has become an international public health threat .
Prevention is of paramount importance to contain its spread .
This study observes face mask wearing behavior and contact transmission problems in Taiwan .
Teachers track student status in class .
In addition to measuring body temperature and regular disinfection , classrooms require ventilation wear mask , provide alcohol spray and avoid sharing the microphone .
Both questionnaire surveys and experimental were utilized .
A total of 160 adults residing in Taiwan participated in the survey .
The dye simulated the possible virus area on the mask @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to complete a questionnaire and simulate the spread of contact transmission when using a computer .
Eighty-one % of respondents reported consistent use of surgical masks several times a day .
They reported taking their masks off in relatively safe areas .
Most people reported using one mask per day and storing the masks in their pockets .
As a result , masks surface become a contamination source .
In the contact experiment , ten adults were requested to don and doff a surgical mask while doing a word processing task .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by image analysis .
The results show an average contamination area of the workspace is significant 530 cm .
When the hand touches the surface of the mask , it may spread the virus to the subsequent contact area .

The global outbreak of coronavirus has become an international public health threat. Prevention is of paramount importance to contain its spread. This study observes face mask wearing behavior and contact transmission problems in Taiwan. Teachers track student status in class. In addition to measuring body temperature and regular disinfection, classrooms require ventilation wear mask, provide alcohol spray and avoid sharing the microphone. Both questionnaire surveys and experimental were utilized. A total of 160 adults residing in Taiwan participated in the survey. The dye simulated the possible virus area on the mask surface during usage. Subjects were required to complete a questionnaire and simulate the spread of contact transmission when using a computer. Eighty-one % of respondents reported consistent use of surgical masks several times a day. They reported taking their masks off in relatively safe areas. Most people reported using one mask per day and storing the masks in their pockets. As a result, masks surface become a contamination source. In the contact experiment, ten adults were requested to don and doff a surgical mask while doing a word processing task. The extended contamination areas were recorded and identified by image analysis. The results show an average contamination area of the workspace is significant 530 cm. When the hand touches the surface of the mask, it may spread the virus to the subsequent contact area.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-07--On respiratory droplets and face masks.

On respiratory droplets and face masks.

Face mask filters-textile , surgical , or respiratory-are widely used in an effort to limit the spread of airborne viral infections .
Our understanding of the droplet dynamics around a face mask filter , including the droplet containment and leakage from and passing through the cover , is incomplete .
We present a fluid dynamics study of the transmission of respiratory droplets through and around a face mask filter .
By employing multiphase computational fluid dynamics in a fully coupled Eulerian-Lagrangian framework , we investigate the droplet dynamics induced by a mild coughing incident and examine the fluid dynamics phenomena @ @ @ @ @ @ @ takes into account turbulent dispersion forces , droplet phase-change , evaporation , and breakup in addition to the droplet-droplet and droplet-air interactions .
The model mimics real events by using data , which closely resemble cough experiments .
The study shows that the criteria employed for assessing the face mask performance must be modified to take into account the penetration dynamics of airborne droplet transmission , the fluid dynamics leakage around the filter , and reduction of efficiency during cough cycles .
A new criterion for calculating more accurately the mask efficiency by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proposed .
We show that the use of masks will reduce the airborne droplet transmission and will also protect the wearer from the droplets expelled from other subjects .
However , many droplets still spread around and away from the cover , cumulatively , during cough cycles .
Therefore , the use of a mask does not provide complete protection , and social distancing remains important during a pandemic .
The implications of the reduced mask efficiency and respiratory droplet transmission away from the mask are even more critical for healthcare workers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of droplet transmission prevention by face masks , which can guide their use and further improvement .

Face mask filters-textile, surgical, or respiratory-are widely used in an effort to limit the spread of airborne viral infections. Our understanding of the droplet dynamics around a face mask filter, including the droplet containment and leakage from and passing through the cover, is incomplete. We present a fluid dynamics study of the transmission of respiratory droplets through and around a face mask filter. By employing multiphase computational fluid dynamics in a fully coupled Eulerian-Lagrangian framework, we investigate the droplet dynamics induced by a mild coughing incident and examine the fluid dynamics phenomena affecting the mask efficiency. The model takes into account turbulent dispersion forces, droplet phase-change, evaporation, and breakup in addition to the droplet-droplet and droplet-air interactions. The model mimics real events by using data, which closely resemble cough experiments. The study shows that the criteria employed for assessing the face mask performance must be modified to take into account the penetration dynamics of airborne droplet transmission, the fluid dynamics leakage around the filter, and reduction of efficiency during cough cycles. A new criterion for calculating more accurately the mask efficiency by taking into account the penetration dynamics is proposed. We show that the use of masks will reduce the airborne droplet transmission and will also protect the wearer from the droplets expelled from other subjects. However, many droplets still spread around and away from the cover, cumulatively, during cough cycles. Therefore, the use of a mask does not provide complete protection, and social distancing remains important during a pandemic. The implications of the reduced mask efficiency and respiratory droplet transmission away from the mask are even more critical for healthcare workers. The results of this study provide evidence of droplet transmission prevention by face masks, which can guide their use and further improvement.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-07--Meta-analyses suggest that regular hand hygiene provided a significant protective effect and facemas

Meta-analyses suggest that regular hand hygiene provided a significant protective effect and facemask use provided a non-significant protective effect.

The goal of this review was to examine the effectiveness of personal protective measures in preventing pandemic influenza transmission in @ @ @ @ @ primary studies from Medline , Embase , PubMed , Cochrane Library , CINAHL and grey @ @ @ @ @ random effects meta-analyses were conducted using inverse variance statistical calculations .
Meta-analyses suggest that regular @ @ @ @ @ protective effect ( OR=0.62 ; 95 % CI 0.52-0.73 ; I=0 % ) , and @ @ @ @ @ protective effect ( OR=0.53 ; 95 % CI 0.16-1.71 ; I=48 % ) against 2009 @ @ @ @ @ interventions may therefore be effective at limiting transmission during future pandemics .
PROSPERO Registration : @ @

The goal of this review was to examine the effectiveness of personal protective measures in preventing pandemic influenza transmission in human populations. We collected primary studies from Medline, Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Library, CINAHL and grey literature. Where appropriate, random effects meta-analyses were conducted using inverse variance statistical calculations. Meta-analyses suggest that regular hand hygiene provided a significant protective effect (OR=0.62; 95% CI 0.52-0.73; I=0%), and facemask use provided a non-significant protective effect (OR=0.53; 95% CI 0.16-1.71; I=48%) against 2009 pandemic influenza infection. These interventions may therefore be effective at limiting transmission during future pandemics. PROSPERO Registration: 42016039896.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-07--The use of face masks either by infected persons or by uninfected persons does not have a substantia

The use of face masks either by infected persons or by uninfected persons does not have a substantial effect on influenza transmission.

There were 3 influenza pandemics in the 20th century , and there has been 1 so far in the 21st @ @ @ @ @ , and international health authorities regularly update their plans for mitigating the next influenza pandemic @ @ @ @ @ available evidence on the effectiveness of various control measures in reducing transmission .
Here , @ @ @ @ @ on the effectiveness of nonpharmaceutical personal protective measures and environmental hygiene measures in nonhealthcare settings @ @ @ @ @ in pandemic plans .
Although mechanistic studies support the potential effect of hand hygiene or @ @ @ @ @ 14 randomized controlled trials of these measures did not support a substantial effect on transmission @ @ @ @ @ similarly found limited evidence on the effectiveness of improved hygiene and environmental cleaning .
We @ @ @ @ @ requiring further research , most fundamentally an improved characterization of the modes of person-to-person transmission @

There were 3 influenza pandemics in the 20th century, and there has been 1 so far in the 21st century. Local, national, and international health authorities regularly update their plans for mitigating the next influenza pandemic in light of the latest available evidence on the effectiveness of various control measures in reducing transmission. Here, we review the evidence base on the effectiveness of nonpharmaceutical personal protective measures and environmental hygiene measures in nonhealthcare settings and discuss their potential inclusion in pandemic plans. Although mechanistic studies support the potential effect of hand hygiene or face masks, evidence from 14 randomized controlled trials of these measures did not support a substantial effect on transmission of laboratory-confirmed influenza. We similarly found limited evidence on the effectiveness of improved hygiene and environmental cleaning. We identified several major knowledge gaps requiring further research, most fundamentally an improved characterization of the modes of person-to-person transmission.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-07--Covid-19 face masks: A potential source of microplastic fibers in the environment.

The increase in production and consumption of face mask across the world has given rise to a new environmental challenge @ @ @ @ @ plastic and plastic particle waste in the environment .
Some of these materials are getting @ @ @ @ @ reach the freshwater and marine environment adding to the presence of plastics in the aquatic @ @ @ @ @ OceansAsia , an organization committed to advocacy and research on marine pollution , reported in @ @ @ @ @ of face masks of different types and colours in an ocean in Hong Kong .
@ @ @ @ @ face masks along a highway and drainage in Ile-Ife , Nigeria , on May 5 @ @ @ @ @ 2 ) .
This new emergence of face masks as environmental litter both in the @ @ @ @ @ a piece of evidence that the global pandemic has not in any way reduced the @ @ @ @ @ in the environment .

The increase in production and consumption of face mask across the world has given rise to a new environmental challenge, adding to the vast plastic and plastic particle waste in the environment. Some of these materials are getting into waterways from where they reach the freshwater and marine environment adding to the presence of plastics in the aquatic medium. For instance, OceansAsia, an organization committed to advocacy and research on marine pollution, reported in February 2020, the presence of face masks of different types and colours in an ocean in Hong Kong. Also, the collection of face masks along a highway and drainage in Ile-Ife, Nigeria, on May 5, 2020 (Fig. 2 ). This new emergence of face masks as environmental litter both in the terrestrial and aquatic environment is a piece of evidence that the global pandemic has not in any way reduced the challenge of increasing plastic pollution in the environment.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-07--Revolutionize Your Health with the New Biology

Learn about the New Biology , focusing on the amazing capability of your body to regenerate .
Discover how to @ @ @ @ @ why alternative sources of energy have revolutionary implications on nutrition , medicine , genetics and @ @ @ @ @ more about the New Biology you can get Sayer Ji 's international best-selling book REGENERATE @ @ @ @ @ ... Stay tuned for the re-launch of the Regeneration Masterclass ( coming soon ! )

Visit our Re-post guidelines This article is copyrighted by GreenMedInfo LLC, 2020
Learn about the New Biology, focusing on the amazing capability of your body to regenerate. Discover how to use food as information and why alternative sources of energy have revolutionary implications on nutrition, medicine, genetics and your lifespan.
To learn more about the New Biology you can get Sayer Ji's international best-selling book REGENERATE here: https://www.amazon.com/Regenerate-Bio...
Stay tuned for the re-launch of the Regeneration Masterclass (coming soon!)


greenmedinfo--2020-07-07--Why Walnut Resembles the Brain It Nourishes

Nothing could be more beautiful or poetic than when a healing food actually looks like the organ system it nourishes and heals in the body .
While commonly viewed as mere coincidence or an act of extraordinary randomness , it is difficult for me to acknowledge the exquisite design of the walnut , whose eerily skull-like shell encompasses the fatty-acid rich , bihemispheric `` brain '' of the nut , without opening myself to the possibility that mother nature wove metaphor , meaning , and a high degree of co-evolutionary non-arbitrariness into the natural order of things .
Walnuts are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ amount of the very fatty acids , specifically the EPA/DHA omega 3 fatty acid substrate alpha linolenic acid that the brain requires for optimal health .
Moreover , walnuts contain well-known neuroprotective compounds , such as gallic acid , vitamin E isomers , melatonin , folate , and polyphenols .
Coincidence , or mother nature providing a clue so obvious we would have to be nuts ( or nut deficient ) in order to overlook it ?
Or , consider the remarkable pomegranate fruit , prized the world over as a regenerative , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cultural and mythological significance .
Amazingly , pomegranate not only looks like the mammalian ovary but is literally the fruiting ovary of the pomegranate plant , and which produces some of the very same hormones ( e.g .
estrone and testosterone ) that normally only animals produce , and which can even replace their function in the ovariectomy-induced experimental model of menopause .
In these examples , we see reflected a phenomenon once described as part of the `` doctrine of signatures , '' a concept that goes back at least 500 years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) , who stated : `` Nature marks each growth ... according to its curative benefit . ''
While this concept was sometimes taken too literally in the ancient world , with superficial resemblances between plants and human organs often being mistaken as having significant medical value , indubitably , there is still deep wisdom embedded in ancient medical texts , concepts , and practices .
At GreenMedInfo.com , we focus on supporting our intuitive faculties and direct experiences ( the so-called N-of-1 which is the phenomological ground of all truth ) in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scientific research , and this includes validating some of the more `` poetical '' concepts like the `` doctrine of signatures '' that the majority of modern medical professionals have left behind as `` magical thinking '' , or were never exposed to in their training .
I believe we are nearing a golden age of mutual validation , where the ancient and new worlds meet to confirm one another , ultimately amplifying the awareness that natural healing , and self-healing is the only sane path forward worth taking when it comes to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Pomegranate is an exceptional example of a food that participates in the extraordinary doctrine of signatures , because it both resembles and heals multiple organ systems .
Not only is it a plant ovary that supports , nourishes and heals the ovaries of animals , but it looks like a heart and `` bleeds '' an amazing , astringent juice that anyone who has tasted it knows leaves the mouth feeling exceptionally clean .
The oral cavity happens to be lined with the very same epithelial tissue that lines the inside of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The same cleansing effect , that you taste and feel in your mouth , also occurs in your arteries , which is why pomegranate has been clinically proven to reverse arterial plaque buildup within just months of consumption .
Can you only imagine what would happen if the millions on statin drugs who are obtaining no cardiovascular benefits consumed pomegranate instead ?
If food were used as medicine we might actually accomplish a deceleration , and perhaps even regression , of the ever-expanding global heart disease epidemic .
Pomegranate 's blood-like juice has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and vitality of our blood .
A 2014 study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology , Nutrition and Metabolism titled , `` Effects of pomegranate extract on blood flow and running time to exhaustion , '' found that acute ingestion of pomegranate extract 30 min before exercise enhanced vessel diameter and blood flow and delayed fatigue during exercise .
The pomegranate group noted a significant increase in post-exertion vitality , as well .
I found this study particularly interesting because I have noticed after consuming pomegranate juice the same sensation of increased @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , until reading this study , if this was something I was imagining or if it was possible within one dose of pomegranate to experience significance differences in blood flow .
Remarkably , another `` blood-like '' liquid , beet juice , has also been found to have significant blood supportive properties .
In one recent study , a single dose of beet juice resulted in improved cognition within 90 minutes , and which researchers attributed to its ability to positively modulate the blood flow dynamics ( haemodynamic response ) in the frontal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is the presence within beet juice of nitrates , which produce a blood vessel dilating effect .
For those looking for more information on the doctrine of signatures , the herbalist Mathew Wood provides salient insight in an article on the topic under the subheading `` the Forces of Nature and the Creation of Signatures '' : '' Every plant represents a finely honed response to environmental stress – the exact same stress that human beings must contend with in order to stay healthy .
The wide array of chemical compounds in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , color and environmental niche all represent adaptations to stress .
The plant has been molded in response to stress .
There is no room for extra chemicals or colors or extravagant shapes .
It is a survivor and what it can do for itself it can convey to us as a medicine .
The philosopher Rudolf Steiner pointed out that the same forces which cause disease in the human frame cause the contortion of the plant .
Thus , the `` contortions '' or shapes and colors , not to mention the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , are `` signatures '' picturing the stresses and diseases to which plant is remedial .
There is also a deeper lesson .
The doctrine of signatures teaches us to view disease and remedy in a `` characterological '' sense , or as specific patterns or identity patterns formed in response to stress .
Each possesses an inherent logic and intelligence all their own .
These responses produce patterns or `` signatures '' which we must learn to read in plant and person alike . ''
For an even deeper scientific explanation for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how to survive and/or thrive together by developing certain phytochemical co-dependencies , read the remarkable article on the topic titled , `` Xenohormesis : health benefits from an eon of plant stress response evolution . ''
For more information on food-organ resemblance , read our article : 3 Foods That Look Like the Organ They Heal , as well as the deeper food philosophy of Sayer Ji : Leonardo da Vinci & The New Biology .
To learn more about these topics you can read or listen to my book REGENERATE : Unlocking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ New Biology .

Visit our Re-post guidelines This article is copyrighted by GreenMedInfo LLC, 2022
Nothing could be more beautiful or poetic than when a healing food actually looks like the organ system it nourishes and heals in the body.
While commonly viewed as mere coincidence or an act of extraordinary randomness, it is difficult for me to acknowledge the exquisite design of the walnut, whose eerily skull-like shell encompasses the fatty-acid rich, bihemispheric "brain" of the nut, without opening myself to the possibility that mother nature wove metaphor, meaning, and a high degree of co-evolutionary non-arbitrariness into the natural order of things. Walnuts are well known to have a disproportionately higher amount of the very fatty acids, specifically the EPA/DHA omega 3 fatty acid substrate alpha linolenic acid that the brain requires for optimal health. Moreover, walnuts contain well-known neuroprotective compounds, such as gallic acid, vitamin E isomers, melatonin, folate, and polyphenols. Coincidence, or mother nature providing a clue so obvious we would have to be nuts (or nut deficient) in order to overlook it?
Or, consider the remarkable pomegranate fruit, prized the world over as a regenerative, fertility and prosperity enhancing food of deep cultural and mythological significance. Amazingly, pomegranate not only looks like the mammalian ovary but is literally the fruiting ovary of the pomegranate plant, and which produces some of the very same hormones (e.g. estrone and testosterone) that normally only animals produce, and which can even replace their function in the ovariectomy-induced experimental model of menopause.
In these examples, we see reflected a phenomenon once described as part of the "doctrine of signatures," a concept that goes back at least 500 years around the time of Parceleus (1491-1541), who stated: "Nature marks each growth ... according to its curative benefit." While this concept was sometimes taken too literally in the ancient world, with superficial resemblances between plants and human organs often being mistaken as having significant medical value, indubitably, there is still deep wisdom embedded in ancient medical texts, concepts, and practices.
At GreenMedInfo.com, we focus on supporting our intuitive faculties and direct experiences (the so-called N-of-1 which is the phenomological ground of all truth) in the realm of natural medicine with peer-reviewed scientific research, and this includes validating some of the more "poetical" concepts like the "doctrine of signatures" that the majority of modern medical professionals have left behind as "magical thinking", or were never exposed to in their training. I believe we are nearing a golden age of mutual validation, where the ancient and new worlds meet to confirm one another, ultimately amplifying the awareness that natural healing, and self-healing is the only sane path forward worth taking when it comes to, at least, non-emergency health care.
Pomegranate: The Ovary, Heart, And Blood Healing Food
Pomegranate is an exceptional example of a food that participates in the extraordinary doctrine of signatures, because it both resembles and heals multiple organ systems. Not only is it a plant ovary that supports, nourishes and heals the ovaries of animals, but it looks like a heart and "bleeds" an amazing, astringent juice that anyone who has tasted it knows leaves the mouth feeling exceptionally clean. The oral cavity happens to be lined with the very same epithelial tissue that lines the inside of the blood vessels (endothelium). The same cleansing effect, that you taste and feel in your mouth, also occurs in your arteries, which is why pomegranate has been clinically proven to reverse arterial plaque buildup within just months of consumption. Can you only imagine what would happen if the millions on statin drugs who are obtaining no cardiovascular benefits consumed pomegranate instead? If food were used as medicine we might actually accomplish a deceleration, and perhaps even regression, of the ever-expanding global heart disease epidemic.
Pomegranate's blood-like juice has been clinically studied to increase the health and vitality of our blood. A 2014 study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology, Nutrition and Metabolism titled, "Effects of pomegranate extract on blood flow and running time to exhaustion," found that acute ingestion of pomegranate extract 30 min before exercise enhanced vessel diameter and blood flow and delayed fatigue during exercise. The pomegranate group noted a significant increase in post-exertion vitality, as well.
I found this study particularly interesting because I have noticed after consuming pomegranate juice the same sensation of increased blood flow. I was not certain, until reading this study, if this was something I was imagining or if it was possible within one dose of pomegranate to experience significance differences in blood flow. Remarkably, another "blood-like" liquid, beet juice, has also been found to have significant blood supportive properties. In one recent study, a single dose of beet juice resulted in improved cognition within 90 minutes, and which researchers attributed to its ability to positively modulate the blood flow dynamics (haemodynamic response) in the frontal cortex. One of the mechanisms identified is the presence within beet juice of nitrates, which produce a blood vessel dilating effect.
For those looking for more information on the doctrine of signatures, the herbalist Mathew Wood provides salient insight in an article on the topic under the subheading "the Forces of Nature and the Creation of Signatures":
"Every plant represents a finely honed response to environmental stress - the exact same stress that human beings must contend with in order to stay healthy. The wide array of chemical compounds in the plant, as well as its shape, color and environmental niche all represent adaptations to stress. The plant has been molded in response to stress. There is no room for extra chemicals or colors or extravagant shapes. It is a survivor and what it can do for itself it can convey to us as a medicine. The philosopher Rudolf Steiner pointed out that the same forces which cause disease in the human frame cause the contortion of the plant. Thus, the "contortions" or shapes and colors, not to mention the environmental niche in which the plant lives, are "signatures" picturing the stresses and diseases to which plant is remedial. There is also a deeper lesson. The doctrine of signatures teaches us to view disease and remedy in a "characterological" sense, or as specific patterns or identity patterns formed in response to stress. Each possesses an inherent logic and intelligence all their own. These responses produce patterns or "signatures" which we must learn to read in plant and person alike."
For an even deeper scientific explanation for how plants and animals co-evolved, learning how to survive and/or thrive together by developing certain phytochemical co-dependencies, read the remarkable article on the topic titled, "Xenohormesis: health benefits from an eon of plant stress response evolution."
For more information on food-organ resemblance, read our article: 3 Foods That Look Like the Organ They Heal, as well as the deeper food philosophy of Sayer Ji: Leonardo da Vinci & The New Biology.
To learn more about these topics you can read or listen to my book REGENERATE: Unlocking Your Body's Radical Resilience Through The New Biology.
Originally published: 2015-12-24
Article updated: 2019-07-04


greenmedinfo--2020-07-08--A review of psychobiotics as treatment for anxiety, depression, and related symptoms.

Altering the gut microflora may produce health benefits in individuals suffering from mood disorders .
The purpose of this review @ @ @ @ @ of probiotics , prebiotics , or synbiotics as a potential treatment for symptoms of depression @ @ @ @ @ ( as psychobiotics ) .Google Scholar , PubMed , PsychINFO , and Web of Science @ @ @ @ @ evaluate studies through October 31 , 2019 .
Studies were included if subjects were evaluated @ @ @ @ @ levels at start of the study and consumed probiotics , prebiotics , and/or synbiotics for @ @ @ @ @ , while only 12 studies met all inclusion criteria .
Nine of the 12 studies @ @ @ @ @ various probiotic strains , while only two evaluated synbiotics and one evaluated prebiotics .
Six @ @ @ @ @ probiotics to reduce depression , while two studies found probiotics to reduce anxiety.Translational research in @ @ @ @ @ further investigation of the efficacy of psychobiotics in mood disorders is warranted .

Altering the gut microflora may produce health benefits in individuals suffering from mood disorders. The purpose of this review was to evaluate the efficacy of probiotics, prebiotics, or synbiotics as a potential treatment for symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress (as psychobiotics).Google Scholar, PubMed, PsychINFO, and Web of Science were utilized to identify and evaluate studies through October 31, 2019. Studies were included if subjects were evaluated for altered mood or stress levels at start of the study and consumed probiotics, prebiotics, and/or synbiotics for intervention.Search results yielded 142 articles, while only 12 studies met all inclusion criteria. Nine of the 12 studies identified evaluated the efficacy of various probiotic strains, while only two evaluated synbiotics and one evaluated prebiotics. Six out of 12 studies found probiotics to reduce depression, while two studies found probiotics to reduce anxiety.Translational research in this field is limited and further investigation of the efficacy of psychobiotics in mood disorders is warranted.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-08--Instagram Threatens to Delete Greenmedinfo's Account for Posting THIS Covid-19 Related Image

In a concerning move , Instagram locked GreenMedInfo.com out of its institutional account , and warned that the account with over 70,000 followers may be deleted for posting the image above .
The image above references the Worldometer.info data on recent Daily New Cases of COVID-19 and the Daily Death rates in the United States .
Worldometer aggregates data as follows : The image is comprised of two screenshots from the Worldometer.info site , and describes the present day overblown situation associated with reporting on COVID-19 .
As testing capacity has increased since the lockdown began mid-May , the number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is growing exponentionally , and as a result , so are the number of `` confirmed cases . ''
These so-called `` COVID-19 positive '' individuals are being reported on in the media , and by goverment health agencies , as if they are not only possibly infected with a highly life threatening virus ( which it is not , according to Dr. Fauci 's recent NEJM editorial which referenced a .1 % case fatality rate , or about the same as the seasonal flu ) , but also that they are now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , simultaneously , the actual death rates from COVID-19 have been declining , and by implication , the case fatality rates .
This contradiction is not being reported on within the mainstream media .
Instead , there is a continous ramping of fear , which justify even more restrictions on citizens , and a lack of reporting on what appears to not only be the `` flattening of the curve '' as far as the active threat represented by COVID-19 , but an actual progressive decline in its adverse impacts on the morbidity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Instagram identified the post as violating their community guidelines and describe the information as `` harmful '' and `` false , '' without providing an explanation of how they came to that conclusion , nor any references to substantiate this claim .
Screenshots are provided below .
We encourage our Instagram followers to join our daily newsletter here , as we 've experienced significant attempts to deplatform us over the past year , as we have documented here , and do not take the threat lightly .
We also encourage our followers to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the hyperbolic exaggeration associated with COVID-19 with the following articles : • Horowitz : The CDC Confirms Remarkably Low Coronavirus Death Rate .
Where is the Media ?
• LOCKDOWN LUNACY 2.0 : Second Wave ?
Not Even Close • New Meta-Analysis Raises Doubts That Masks Work To Prevent COVID Infection and Transmission You can view all our articles ( including new articles released daily ) here : https : //www.greenmedinfo.com/gmi-blogs For more information that calls into question the dominant narrative , use the QuestioningCovid.com resource .
To take action to stand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , medical and constitutional rights , use the Stand For Health Freedom digital advocacy portal .
And , follow our founder on Instagram while his account is still up : https : //www.instagram.com/sayergmi/ For those who use Instagram and wish to follow Greenmedinfo.com while it is still up you can do so here : https : //www.instagram.com/greenmedinfo/

Visit our Re-post guidelines This article is copyrighted by GreenMedInfo LLC, 2020
View the GreenMedInfo.com Instagram account.
In a concerning move, Instagram locked GreenMedInfo.com out of its institutional account, and warned that the account with over 70,000 followers may be deleted for posting the image above.
The image above references the Worldometer.info data on recent Daily New Cases of COVID-19 and the Daily Death rates in the United States. Worldometer aggregates data as follows:
"For the COVID-19 data, we collect data from official reports, directly from Government's communication channels or indirectly, through local media sources when deemed reliable. We provide the source of each data update in the "Latest Updates" (News) section. "
The image is comprised of two screenshots from the Worldometer.info site, and describes the present day overblown situation associated with reporting on COVID-19. As testing capacity has increased since the lockdown began mid-May, the number of tests being performed on asymptomatic populations is growing exponentionally, and as a result, so are the number of "confirmed cases." These so-called "COVID-19 positive" individuals are being reported on in the media, and by goverment health agencies, as if they are not only possibly infected with a highly life threatening virus (which it is not, according to Dr. Fauci's recent NEJM editorial which referenced a .1% case fatality rate, or about the same as the seasonal flu), but also that they are now a mortal threat to others. Yet, simultaneously, the actual death rates from COVID-19 have been declining, and by implication, the case fatality rates. This contradiction is not being reported on within the mainstream media. Instead, there is a continous ramping of fear, which justify even more restrictions on citizens, and a lack of reporting on what appears to not only be the "flattening of the curve" as far as the active threat represented by COVID-19, but an actual progressive decline in its adverse impacts on the morbidity and mortality of the US population.
Instagram identified the post as violating their community guidelines and describe the information as "harmful" and "false," without providing an explanation of how they came to that conclusion, nor any references to substantiate this claim. Screenshots are provided below.
We encourage our Instagram followers to join our daily newsletter here, as we've experienced significant attempts to deplatform us over the past year, as we have documented here, and do not take the threat lightly.
July 9th Update
After posting another quote by Ron Paul (pictured above), we once again received notification that Instagram considers his statement "harmful false information," and that our page may be deleted.
Ron Paul's statement echoes with near exactitude the information contained within our original post which was deleted. Given that Ron Paul is both a physician and former politician, his perspective lends additional weight to veracity of the topic that is being actively suppressed. Indeed, recent numbers from Florida's Dept. of Health show that hospitalizations and deaths are declining in the state, as you can see depicted below:
New COVID "confirmed cases" in FL are increasing. SOURCE: Fl. Dept. of Health.
New hospitalizations in FL are decreasing. SOURCE: Fl. Dept. of Health.
New deaths in FL are decreasing. SOURCE: Fl. Dept. of Health.
While the number of cases increases, but deaths and hospitalizations decrease, the media is reporting a grim situation, with new restrictions, mandates, curfews being imposed, and a second lockdown on the horizon. Clearly, the data does not show this is justified. Is this why they are so aggressively censoring posts like ours?
We encourage our followers to read our recent reporting on the topic of the hyperbolic exaggeration associated with COVID-19 with the following articles:
You can view all our articles (including new articles released daily) here: https://www.greenmedinfo.com/gmi-blogs
For more information that calls into question the dominant narrative, use the QuestioningCovid.com resource.
To take action to stand up for your basic human, civil, medical and constitutional rights, use the Stand For Health Freedom digital advocacy portal.
And, follow our founder on Instagram while his account is still up: https://www.instagram.com/sayergmi/
For those who use Instagram and wish to follow Greenmedinfo.com while it is still up you can do so here: https://www.instagram.com/greenmedinfo/


greenmedinfo--2020-07-08--Horowitz: The CDC Confirms Remarkably Low Coronavirus Death Rate. Where is the Media?

This website is for information purposes only .
By providing the information contained herein we are not diagnosing , treating @ @ @ @ @ or preventing any type of disease or medical condition .
Before beginning any type of @ @ @ @ @ treatment regimen , it is advisable to seek the advice of a licensed healthcare professional @

This website is for information purposes only. By providing the information contained herein we are not diagnosing, treating, curing, mitigating, or preventing any type of disease or medical condition. Before beginning any type of natural, integrative or conventional treatment regimen, it is advisable to seek the advice of a licensed healthcare professional.
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greenmedinfo--2020-07-08--LOCKDOWN LUNACY 2.0: Second Wave? Not Even Close


greenmedinfo--2020-07-08--Co-administering prebiotics with antibiotics in rat dams prevented obesity risk in offspring.

SCOPE : Antibiotics in early life disrupt microbiota and increase obesity risk , whereas dietary agents such as prebiotics may reduce obesity risk .
We examined how antibiotics administered with/without prebiotic oligofructose , alter metabolic and microbial outcomes in pregnant rats and their offspring .
METHODS AND RESULTS : Pregnant rats were randomized to : 1 ) Control [ CTR ] , 2 ) Antibiotic [ ABT ] , 3 ) Prebiotic [ PRE ] , 4 ) Antibiotic+Prebiotic [ ABT+PRE ] during the 3rd week of pregnancy and lactation .
Offspring were fed a high fat/high sucrose ( HFS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to unmask obesity risk .
ABT dams had higher body weight , body fat and leptin during lactation than all other groups .
Prebiotics attenuated these outcomes and increased cecal Bifidobacterium .
ABT offspring had higher body weight , fat mass and liver triglycerides after HFS diet , with a stronger phenotype in males ; prebiotics attenuated these .
At weaning , male ABT offspring had lower Lactobacillus while PRE and ABT+PRE offspring had higher Bifidobacterium and Collinsella .
Fecal microbiota transfer from adult offspring cecal matter could not reliably transfer the obese @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during pregnancy/lactation increases adiposity and impairs post-partum weight loss in dams .
Co-administering prebiotics with antibiotics in rat dams prevented obesity risk in offspring and was associated with altered gut microbiota .
This article is protected by copyright .
All rights reserved .

SCOPE: Antibiotics in early life disrupt microbiota and increase obesity risk, whereas dietary agents such as prebiotics may reduce obesity risk. We examined how antibiotics administered with/without prebiotic oligofructose, alter metabolic and microbial outcomes in pregnant rats and their offspring.
METHODS AND RESULTS: Pregnant rats were randomized to: 1) Control [CTR], 2) Antibiotic [ABT], 3) Prebiotic [PRE], 4) Antibiotic+Prebiotic [ABT+PRE] during the 3rd week of pregnancy and lactation. Offspring were fed a high fat/high sucrose (HFS) diet from 9-17 weeks of age to unmask obesity risk. ABT dams had higher body weight, body fat and leptin during lactation than all other groups. Prebiotics attenuated these outcomes and increased cecal Bifidobacterium. ABT offspring had higher body weight, fat mass and liver triglycerides after HFS diet, with a stronger phenotype in males; prebiotics attenuated these. At weaning, male ABT offspring had lower Lactobacillus while PRE and ABT+PRE offspring had higher Bifidobacterium and Collinsella. Fecal microbiota transfer from adult offspring cecal matter could not reliably transfer the obese ABT phenotype.
CONCLUSIONS: Antibiotic use during pregnancy/lactation increases adiposity and impairs post-partum weight loss in dams. Co-administering prebiotics with antibiotics in rat dams prevented obesity risk in offspring and was associated with altered gut microbiota. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-08--Gut microbiota is now recognized as a well-established target to dietary interventions with prebioti

Gut microbiota is now recognized as a well-established target to dietary interventions with prebiotics or probiotics to reduce blood pressure.

There are numerous studies indicating a direct association between hypertension and gut microbiota in both animal models and humans .
In this review we focused on the imbalance in the gut microbiota composition relative to healthy state or homeostasis , termed dysbiosis , associated with hypertension and discuss the current knowledge regarding how microbiota regulates blood pressure , involving the sympathetic nervous system and the immune system .
The profile of ecological parameters and bacterial genera composition of gut dysbiosis in hypertension varies according to the experimental model of hypertension .
Recent evidence supports that gut microbiota can protect or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with gut secondary lymph organs and altering T helper 17/ regulatory T cells polarization , with subsequent changes in T cells infiltration in vascular tissues .
Here we also describe the bidirectional communication between the microbiome and the host via the sympathetic nervous system and its role in blood pressure regulation .
Dysbiosis in hypertension is mainly associated with reduced proportions of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria , mainly acetate- and butyrate-producing bacteria , and an increased enrichment of the genes for lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis and export , lending to moderate endotoxemia .
The role @ @ @ @ @ @ @ both immune and sympathetic system regulation and vascular inflammation was also analyzed .
Overall , gut microbiota is now recognized as a well-established target to dietary interventions with prebiotics or probiotics to reduce blood pressure .

There are numerous studies indicating a direct association between hypertension and gut microbiota in both animal models and humans. In this review we focused on the imbalance in the gut microbiota composition relative to healthy state or homeostasis, termed dysbiosis, associated with hypertension and discuss the current knowledge regarding how microbiota regulates blood pressure, involving the sympathetic nervous system and the immune system. The profile of ecological parameters and bacterial genera composition of gut dysbiosis in hypertension varies according to the experimental model of hypertension. Recent evidence supports that gut microbiota can protect or promote the development of hypertension by interacting with gut secondary lymph organs and altering T helper 17/ regulatory T cells polarization, with subsequent changes in T cells infiltration in vascular tissues. Here we also describe the bidirectional communication between the microbiome and the host via the sympathetic nervous system and its role in blood pressure regulation. Dysbiosis in hypertension is mainly associated with reduced proportions of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria, mainly acetate- and butyrate-producing bacteria, and an increased enrichment of the genes for lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis and export, lending to moderate endotoxemia. The role of these metabolic and structural products in both immune and sympathetic system regulation and vascular inflammation was also analyzed. Overall, gut microbiota is now recognized as a well-established target to dietary interventions with prebiotics or probiotics to reduce blood pressure.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-08--The results suggest that GABA-fermented milk may improve sleep.

Insomnia is a common health problem in modern societies .
GABA , an inhibitory neurotransmitter , can promote relaxation and reduce anxiety .
In this study , milk was fermented with Lactobacillus brevis DL1-11 , a strain with high GABA-producing capacity .
The potential beneficial effects of this fermented milk on anxiety and sleep quality were evaluated in animal experiments .
Sixty mice were divided into control , non-GABA fermented milk ( NGFM ) , low-dose GABA fermented milk ( LGFM , 8.83 mg/kg.bw ) , medium-dose GABA fermented milk ( MGFM , 16.67 mg/kg.bw ) , high-dose GABA fermented @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and diazepam groups .
The results of open field test and elevated plus-maze test indicated decreases in anxiety behavior after oral HGFM administration .
Moreover , mice in theHGFM group exhibited a significantly prolonged sleep time after an intraperitoneal injection of sodium pentobarbital and a shortened sleep latency after an intraperitoneal injection of sodium barbital .
These results indicate a beneficial effect of HGFM on sleep .
Additionally , significant increasesin the relative abundances of Ruminococcus , Adlercreutzia and Allobaculum and the levels of some short-chain fatty acids ( SCFAs ) , such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the HGFM group .
The results suggest that GABA-fermented milk may improve sleep and the protective pathways may involve in regulation of gut microbiota and increase of SCFAs level .

Insomnia is a common health problem in modern societies. GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter, can promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. In this study, milk was fermented with Lactobacillus brevis DL1-11, a strain with high GABA-producing capacity. The potential beneficial effects of this fermented milk on anxiety and sleep quality were evaluated in animal experiments. Sixty mice were divided into control, non-GABA fermented milk (NGFM), low-dose GABA fermented milk (LGFM, 8.83 mg/kg.bw), medium-dose GABA fermented milk (MGFM, 16.67 mg/kg.bw), high-dose GABA fermented milk (HGFM, 33.33 mg/kg.bw) and diazepam groups. The results of open field test and elevated plus-maze test indicated decreases in anxiety behavior after oral HGFM administration. Moreover, mice in theHGFM group exhibited a significantly prolonged sleep time after an intraperitoneal injection of sodium pentobarbital and a shortened sleep latency after an intraperitoneal injection of sodium barbital. These results indicate a beneficial effect of HGFM on sleep. Additionally, significant increasesin the relative abundances of Ruminococcus, Adlercreutzia and Allobaculum and the levels of some short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), such as butyric acid, were observed in the HGFM group. The results suggest that GABA-fermented milk may improve sleep and the protective pathways may involve in regulation of gut microbiota and increase of SCFAs level.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-08--Available studies suggest that probiotics may improve psychological symptoms associated particularly

BACKGROUND AND AIMS : Recent mounting evidence suggest that probiotics supplementation can have a positive effect on mood and psychological symptoms such as stress and anxiety disorders .
The majority of studies , however , rely on animal models , while clinical data are still inconsistent .
In this systematic review , we examined if and to which extent probiotics can influence psychological stress and anxiety disorders .
METHODS : The search of online databases Medline , PubMed , Scopus , Web of Science and clinical trials.gov provided relevant studies up to November 2019 .
We included double blind , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as well as studies measuring preclinical psychological symptoms of perceived stress and anxiety , before and after supplementation with a probiotic .
RESULTS : Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria ( 3 on stress , 4 on anxiety , and 5 both on stress and anxiety ) , accounting for 1,521 participants .
The improvement of stress , anxiety , and stress-anxiety was reported in 1/3 , 3/4 , and 2/5 studies , respectively .
CONCLUSIONS : Available studies suggest that probiotics may improve psychological symptoms associated particularly with anxiety .
Further @ @ @ @ @ @ @ improve psychological stress disturbances .

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Recent mounting evidence suggest that probiotics supplementation can have a positive effect on mood and psychological symptoms such as stress and anxiety disorders. The majority of studies, however, rely on animal models, while clinical data are still inconsistent. In this systematic review, we examined if and to which extent probiotics can influence psychological stress and anxiety disorders.
METHODS: The search of online databases Medline, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and clinical trials.gov provided relevant studies up to November 2019. We included double blind, randomized and placebo controlled or prospective studies, as well as studies measuring preclinical psychological symptoms of perceived stress and anxiety, before and after supplementation with a probiotic.
RESULTS: Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria (3 on stress, 4 on anxiety, and 5 both on stress and anxiety), accounting for 1,521 participants. The improvement of stress, anxiety, and stress-anxiety was reported in 1/3, 3/4, and 2/5 studies, respectively.
CONCLUSIONS: Available studies suggest that probiotics may improve psychological symptoms associated particularly with anxiety. Further research needs to investigate whether probiotics also improve psychological stress disturbances.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-08--The results of this study imply that the administration of reiki is effective in controlling preoper

The results of this study imply that the administration of reiki is effective in controlling preoperative anxiety levels.

PURPOSE : The purpose of the study was to investigate changes in the anxiety levels of patients receiving preoperative Reiki @ @ @ @ @ This study used a quasi-experimental model with a pretest-posttest control group .
METHODS : Subjects @ @ @ @ @ were recruited from a hospital in Turkey , from June 2013 to July 2014 .
@ @ @ @ @ experimental ( n = 105 ) and control ( n = 105 ) groups .
@ @ @ @ @ anxiety of experimental group patients did not change according to their state anxiety scores ( @ @ @ @ @ however , the anxiety level of control group patients increased ( p < 0.001 ) @ @ @ @ @ of this study imply that the administration of Reiki is effective in controlling preoperative anxiety @ @ @ @ @ from increasing .

PURPOSE: The purpose of the study was to investigate changes in the anxiety levels of patients receiving preoperative Reiki.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study used a quasi-experimental model with a pretest-posttest control group.
METHODS: Subjects (n = 210) were recruited from a hospital in Turkey, from June 2013 to July 2014. Subjects were then assigned to experimental (n = 105) and control (n = 105) groups.
RESULTS: The level of anxiety of experimental group patients did not change according to their state anxiety scores (p>0.10); however, the anxiety level of control group patients increased (p<0.001).
CONCLUSION: The results of this study imply that the administration of Reiki is effective in controlling preoperative anxiety levels and in preventing them from increasing.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-08--Findings from this study confirm the positive and lingering effects of Reiki in women hospitalized f

: To determine the effect of Reiki on pain and anxiety in women in antepartum, intrapartum, postpartum, gynecology, and gyn/oncology, settings.: This exploratory, comparative study used a Likert-type scale of 0 to 10 to measure pain and anxiety, and a survey asking about lingering effects of treatment.: Mean pain scores after Reiki significantly decreased from 3.24 to 1.52 (= 203; z = -11.67,<.001). Mean anxiety scores after Reiki significantly decreased from 3.56 to 1.28 (= 195; z = -11.42,<.001). Women were asked if the effects lingered for any length of time post-Reiki treatment, and 91 of 101 responded affirmatively that decreased pain and/or anxiety continued.: Findings from this study confirm the positive and lingering effects of Reiki in women hospitalized for obstetrical and gynecological conditions.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-08--The study indicates that N95 filtering facepiece respirators may not achieve the expected protection

OBJECTIVES : This study aimed at determining the protection factors ( PFs ) provided by N95 filtering facepiece respirators and surgical masks against particles representing bacterial and viral size ranges ( aerodynamic size : 0.04-1.3 mum ) .
METHODS : The protection levels of N95 filtering facepiece respirators ( four models ) and surgical masks ( three models ) were investigated while they were donned by 12 subjects performing the OSHA ( US Occupational Safety and Health Administration ) fit-testing exercises in a test chamber .
RESULTS : About 29 % of N95 respirators and approximately 100 % of surgical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is the assigned PF designated for this type of respirator by the OSHA .
On average , the PFs of N95 respirators were 8-12 times greater than those of surgical masks .
The minimum PFs were observed in the size range of 0.04-0.2 mum .
No significant difference in PF results was found between N95 respirators with and without an exhalation valve .
CONCLUSIONS : The study indicates that N95 filtering facepiece respirators may not achieve the expected protection level against bacteria and viruses .
An exhalation valve on the N95 respirator does @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appears to be an appropriate alternative to reduce the breathing resistance .

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed at determining the protection factors (PFs) provided by N95 filtering facepiece respirators and surgical masks against particles representing bacterial and viral size ranges (aerodynamic size: 0.04-1.3 mum).
METHODS: The protection levels of N95 filtering facepiece respirators (four models) and surgical masks (three models) were investigated while they were donned by 12 subjects performing the OSHA (US Occupational Safety and Health Administration) fit-testing exercises in a test chamber.
RESULTS: About 29% of N95 respirators and approximately 100% of surgical masks had PFs<10, which is the assigned PF designated for this type of respirator by the OSHA. On average, the PFs of N95 respirators were 8-12 times greater than those of surgical masks. The minimum PFs were observed in the size range of 0.04-0.2 mum. No significant difference in PF results was found between N95 respirators with and without an exhalation valve.
CONCLUSIONS: The study indicates that N95 filtering facepiece respirators may not achieve the expected protection level against bacteria and viruses. An exhalation valve on the N95 respirator does not affect the respiratory protection; it appears to be an appropriate alternative to reduce the breathing resistance.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-08--The adverse skin reactions of health care workers using personal protective equipment for COVID-19.

In December 2019 , a new coronavirus was found in Wuhan , Hubei Province , China , and spread rapidly throughout the country , attracting global attention .
On February 11 , the World Health Organization ( WHO ) officially named the disease caused by 2019-nCoV coronavirus disease 2019 ( COVID-19 ) .
With the increasing number of cases , health care workers ( HCWs ) from all over China volunteered to work in Hubei Province .
Because of the strong infectivity of COVID-19 , HCWs need to wear personal protective equipment ( PPE ) , such as N95 masks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Due to the long-term use of PPE , many adverse skin reactions may occur .
Therefore , the purpose of this study is to explore the adverse skin reactions among HCWs using PPE.Questionnaires were used for the research ; a quantitative study was carried out to determine the incidence of adverse skin reactions among HCWs using PPE.A total of 61 valid questionnaires were collected .
The most common adverse skin reactions among HCWs wearing N95 masks were nasal bridge scarring ( 68.9 % ) and facial itching ( 27.9 % ) .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ HCWs wearing latex gloves were dry skin ( 55.7 % ) , itching ( 31.2 % ) , and rash ( 23.0 % ) .
The most common adverse skin reactions among HCWs wearing protective clothing were dry skin ( 36.1 % ) and itching ( 34.4 % ) .When most HCWs wear PPE for a long period of time , they will experience adverse skin reactions .
The incidence of adverse skin reactions to the N95 mask was 95.1 % , that to latex gloves was 88.5 % , and that to @ @ @ @ @ @

In December 2019, a new coronavirus was found in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China, and spread rapidly throughout the country, attracting global attention. On February 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) officially named the disease caused by 2019-nCoV coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). With the increasing number of cases, health care workers (HCWs) from all over China volunteered to work in Hubei Province. Because of the strong infectivity of COVID-19, HCWs need to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), such as N95 masks, latex gloves, and protective clothing. Due to the long-term use of PPE, many adverse skin reactions may occur. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to explore the adverse skin reactions among HCWs using PPE.Questionnaires were used for the research; a quantitative study was carried out to determine the incidence of adverse skin reactions among HCWs using PPE.A total of 61 valid questionnaires were collected. The most common adverse skin reactions among HCWs wearing N95 masks were nasal bridge scarring (68.9%) and facial itching (27.9%). The most common adverse skin reactions among HCWs wearing latex gloves were dry skin (55.7%), itching (31.2%), and rash (23.0%). The most common adverse skin reactions among HCWs wearing protective clothing were dry skin (36.1%) and itching (34.4%).When most HCWs wear PPE for a long period of time, they will experience adverse skin reactions. The incidence of adverse skin reactions to the N95 mask was 95.1%, that to latex gloves was 88.5%, and that to protective clothing was 60.7%.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-08--Healthcare providers may develop headaches following the use of the N95 face-mask.

BACKGROUND : During the 2003 severe acute respiratory distress syndrome epidemic , healthcare workers mandatorily wore the protective N95 face-mask .
METHODS : We administered a survey to healthcare workers to determine risk factors associated with development of headaches ( frequency , headache subtypes and duration of face-mask wear ) and the impact of headaches ( sick days , headache frequency and use of abortive/preventive headache medications ) .
RESULTS : In the survey , 212 ( 47 male , 165 female ) healthcare workers of mean age 31 years ( range , 21-58 ) participated .
Of the 79 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ face-mask-associated headaches , 26 ( 32.9 % ) reported headache frequency exceeding six times per month .
Six ( 7.6 % ) had taken sick leave from March 2003 to June 2004 ( mean 2 days ; range 1-4 days ) and 47 ( 59.5 % ) required use of abortive analgesics because of headache .
Four ( 2.1 % ) took preventive medications for headaches during this period .
Multivariate logistic regression showed that pre-existing headaches [ P = 0.041 , OR = 1.97 ( 95 % CI 1.03-3.77 ) ] and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 4 h [ P = 0.053 , OR = 1.85 ( 95 % CI 0.99-3.43 ) ] were associated with development of headaches .
CONCLUSIONS : Healthcare providers may develop headaches following the use of the N95 face-mask .
Shorter duration of face-mask wear may reduce the frequency and severity of these headaches .

BACKGROUND: During the 2003 severe acute respiratory distress syndrome epidemic, healthcare workers mandatorily wore the protective N95 face-mask.
METHODS: We administered a survey to healthcare workers to determine risk factors associated with development of headaches (frequency, headache subtypes and duration of face-mask wear) and the impact of headaches (sick days, headache frequency and use of abortive/preventive headache medications).
RESULTS: In the survey, 212 (47 male, 165 female) healthcare workers of mean age 31 years (range, 21-58) participated. Of the 79 (37.3%) respondents who reported face-mask-associated headaches, 26 (32.9%) reported headache frequency exceeding six times per month. Six (7.6%) had taken sick leave from March 2003 to June 2004 (mean 2 days; range 1-4 days) and 47 (59.5%) required use of abortive analgesics because of headache. Four (2.1%) took preventive medications for headaches during this period. Multivariate logistic regression showed that pre-existing headaches [P = 0.041, OR = 1.97 (95% CI 1.03-3.77)] and continuous use of the N95 face-mask exceeding 4 h [P = 0.053, OR = 1.85 (95% CI 0.99-3.43)] were associated with development of headaches.
CONCLUSIONS: Healthcare providers may develop headaches following the use of the N95 face-mask. Shorter duration of face-mask wear may reduce the frequency and severity of these headaches.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-08--Risks of N95 face mask use in subjects with COPD.

BACKGROUND : The N95 filtering facepiece respirator ( FFR ) is the most popular individual protective device to reduce exposure to particulate matter .
However , concerns have been raised with regard to its use because it can increase respiratory resistance and dead space .
Therefore , this study assessed the safety of N95 use in patients with COPD and air-flow limitation .
METHODS : This prospective study was performed at a tertiary hospital and enrolled 97 subjects with COPD .
The subjects were monitored for symptoms and physiologic variables during a 10-min rest period and 6-min walking test while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 97 subjects , 7 with COPD did not wear the N95 for the entire test duration .
This mask-failure group showed higher British modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale scores and lower FEVpercent of predicted values than did the successful mask use group .
A modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale score≥ 3 ( odds ratio 167 , 95 % CI 8.4 to > 999.9 ; = .008 ) or a FEV < 30 % predicted ( odds ratio 163 , 95 % CI 7.4 to > 999.9 ; = .001 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to wear the N95 .
Breathing frequency , blood oxygen saturation , and exhaled carbon dioxide levels also showed significant differences before and after N95 use .
CONCLUSIONS : This study demonstrated that subjects with COPD who had modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale scores≥ 3 or FEV < 30 % predicted wear N95s only with care .

BACKGROUND: The N95 filtering facepiece respirator (FFR) is the most popular individual protective device to reduce exposure to particulate matter. However, concerns have been raised with regard to its use because it can increase respiratory resistance and dead space. Therefore, this study assessed the safety of N95 use in patients with COPD and air-flow limitation.
METHODS: This prospective study was performed at a tertiary hospital and enrolled 97 subjects with COPD. The subjects were monitored for symptoms and physiologic variables during a 10-min rest period and 6-min walking test while wearing an N95.
RESULTS: Of the 97 subjects, 7 with COPD did not wear the N95 for the entire test duration. This mask-failure group showed higher British modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale scores and lower FEVpercent of predicted values than did the successful mask use group. A modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale score≥ 3 (odds ratio 167, 95% CI 8.4 to>999.9;= .008) or a FEV<30% predicted (odds ratio 163, 95% CI 7.4 to>999.9;= .001) was associated with a risk of failure to wear the N95. Breathing frequency, blood oxygen saturation, and exhaled carbon dioxide levels also showed significant differences before and after N95 use.
CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated that subjects with COPD who had modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale scores≥ 3 or FEV<30% predicted wear N95s only with care.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-08--Most healthcare workers develop de novo PPE-associated headaches or exacerbation of their pre-existi

BACKGROUND : Coronavirus disease 2019 ( COVID-19 ) is an emerging infectious disease of pandemic proportions .
Healthcare workers in Singapore working in high-risk areas were mandated to wear personal protective equipment ( PPE ) such as N95 face mask and protective eyewear while attending to patients .
OBJECTIVES : We sought to determine the risk factors associated with the development of de novo PPE-associated headaches as well as the perceived impact of these headaches on their personal health and work performance .
The impact of COVID-19 on pre-existing headache disorders was also investigated .
METHODS : This is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tertiary institution who were working in high-risk hospital areas during COVID-19 .
All respondents completed a self-administered questionnaire .
RESULTS : A total of 158 healthcare workers participated in the study .
Majority [ 126/158 ( 77.8 % ) ] were aged 21-35 years .
Participants included nurses [ 102/158 ( 64.6 % ) ] , doctors [ 51/158 ( 32.3 % ) ] , and paramedical staff [ 5/158 ( 3.2 % ) ] .
Pre-existing primary headache diagnosis was present in about a third [ 46/158 ( 29.1 % ) ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emergency department had higher average daily duration ofcombined PPE exposure compared to those working in isolation wards [ 7.0 ( SD 2.2 ) vs 5.2 ( SD 2.4 ) hours , P 4 hours per day ( OR 3.91 , 95 % CI 1.35-11.31 ; P = .012 ) were independently associated with de novo PPE-associated headaches .
Since COVID-19 outbreak , 42/46 ( 91.3 % ) of respondents with pre-existing headache diagnosis either '' agreed '' or '' strongly agreed '' that the increased PPE usage had affected the control of their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of work performance .
CONCLUSION : Most healthcare workers develop de novo PPE-associated headaches or exacerbation of their pre-existing headache disorders .

BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an emerging infectious disease of pandemic proportions. Healthcare workers in Singapore working in high-risk areas were mandated to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as N95 face mask and protective eyewear while attending to patients.
OBJECTIVES: We sought to determine the risk factors associated with the development of de novo PPE-associated headaches as well as the perceived impact of these headaches on their personal health and work performance. The impact of COVID-19 on pre-existing headache disorders was also investigated.
METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study among healthcare workers at our tertiary institution who were working in high-risk hospital areas during COVID-19. All respondents completed a self-administered questionnaire.
RESULTS: A total of 158 healthcare workers participated in the study. Majority [126/158 (77.8%)] were aged 21-35 years. Participants included nurses [102/158 (64.6%)], doctors [51/158 (32.3%)], and paramedical staff [5/158 (3.2%)]. Pre-existing primary headache diagnosis was present in about a third [46/158 (29.1%)] of respondents. Those based at the emergency department had higher average daily duration ofcombined PPE exposure compared to those working in isolation wards [7.0 (SD 2.2) vs 5.2 (SD 2.4) hours, P < .0001] or medical ICU [7.0 (SD 2.2) vs 2.2 (SD 0.41) hours, P < .0001]. Out of 158 respondents, 128 (81.0%) respondents developed de novo PPE-associated headaches. A pre-existing primary headache diagnosis (OR = 4.20, 95% CI 1.48-15.40; P = .030) and combined PPE usage for>4 hours per day (OR 3.91, 95% CI 1.35-11.31; P = .012) were independently associated with de novo PPE-associated headaches. Since COVID-19 outbreak, 42/46 (91.3%) of respondents with pre-existing headache diagnosis either"agreed"or"strongly agreed"that the increased PPE usage had affected the control of their background headaches, which affected their level of work performance.
CONCLUSION: Most healthcare workers develop de novo PPE-associated headaches or exacerbation of their pre-existing headache disorders.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-08--Cloth masks might facilitate transmission of pathogens when used repeatedly without adequate sterili

Cloth masks might facilitate transmission of pathogens when used repeatedly without adequate sterilization.

This systematic review and meta-analysis quantified the protective effect of facemasks and respirators against respiratory infections among healthcare workers .
Relevant articles were retrieved from Pubmed , EMBASE , and Web of Science .
Meta-analyses were conducted to calculate pooled estimates .
Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials ( RCTs ) indicated a protective effect of masks and respirators against clinical respiratory illness ( CRI ) ( risk ratio [ RR ] = 0.59 ; 95 % confidence interval [ CI ] :0.46-0.77 ) and influenza-like illness ( ILI ) ( RR = 0.34 ; 95 % CI:0.14-0.82 ) .
Compared @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protection against CRI ( RR = 0.47 ; 95 % CI : 0.36-0.62 ) and laboratory-confirmed bacterial ( RR = 0.46 ; 95 % CI : 0.34-0.62 ) , but not viral infections or ILI .
Meta-analysis of observational studies provided evidence of a protective effect of masks ( OR = 0.13 ; 95 % CI : 0.03-0.62 ) and respirators ( OR = 0.12 ; 95 % CI : 0.06-0.26 ) against severe acute respiratory syndrome ( SARS ) .
This systematic review and meta-analysis supports the use of respiratory protection .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and findings are inconsistent within and across studies .
Multicentre RCTs with standardized protocols conducted outside epidemic periods would help to clarify the circumstances under which the use of masks or respirators is most warranted .

This systematic review and meta-analysis quantified the protective effect of facemasks and respirators against respiratory infections among healthcare workers. Relevant articles were retrieved from Pubmed, EMBASE, and Web of Science. Meta-analyses were conducted to calculate pooled estimates. Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) indicated a protective effect of masks and respirators against clinical respiratory illness (CRI) (risk ratio [RR] = 0.59; 95% confidence interval [CI]:0.46-0.77) and influenza-like illness (ILI) (RR = 0.34; 95% CI:0.14-0.82). Compared to masks, N95 respirators conferred superior protection against CRI (RR = 0.47; 95% CI: 0.36-0.62) and laboratory-confirmed bacterial (RR = 0.46; 95% CI: 0.34-0.62), but not viral infections or ILI. Meta-analysis of observational studies provided evidence of a protective effect of masks (OR = 0.13; 95% CI: 0.03-0.62) and respirators (OR = 0.12; 95% CI: 0.06-0.26) against severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). This systematic review and meta-analysis supports the use of respiratory protection. However, the existing evidence is sparse and findings are inconsistent within and across studies. Multicentre RCTs with standardized protocols conducted outside epidemic periods would help to clarify the circumstances under which the use of masks or respirators is most warranted.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-09--Vitamin C inhibits glycidamide-induced genotoxicity and apoptosis in sertoli cells.

Exposure to the food contaminant acrylamide and its reactive epoxide metabolite glycidamide ( GA ) induces reactive oxygen species ( ROS ) -mediated oxidative stress and subsequent cellular death .
Recent studies have revealed that the toxic effects of acrylamide may be due to GA , especially on male reproductive system cells .
In this regard , it is important to determine the effects of GA on Sertoli cells , which are essential cells for the male reproductive system .
Antioxidants should be consumed in sufficient quantities to minimise the effects of environmental pollutants .
This study aimed to determine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protective effects of vitamin C ( VitC ) against GA-induced damage in Sertoli cells by measuring cell viability , cytotoxicity , lipid peroxidation , ROS , antioxidant enzyme levels , apoptosis and DNA damage .
Sertoli cells were exposed to GA for 24 hours at four different concentrations ( ranging between 1 and 1000 μM ) and in addition to these GA concentrations to VitC ( 50 μM ) .
The results of cytotoxicity markers , such as cell viability and lactate dehydrogenase ( LDH ) showed that GA significantly reduced cell viability @ @ @ @ @ @ @ found that GA induced overproduction of intracellular ROS , increased lipid peroxidation in cellular membrane and triggered cell apoptosis and genotoxicity .
In addition , VitC supplementation ameliorated the adverse effects of GA on Sertoli cells .
Consequently , these findings suggestthat GA may damage the cell function in Sertoli cells , depending on the concentration .
Additionally , it was evidenced that VitC has an ameliorative effect on toxicity caused by GA .

Exposure to the food contaminant acrylamide and its reactive epoxide metabolite glycidamide (GA) induces reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated oxidative stress and subsequent cellular death. Recent studies have revealed that the toxic effects of acrylamide may be due to GA, especially on male reproductive system cells. In this regard, it is important to determine the effects of GA on Sertoli cells, which are essential cells for the male reproductive system. Antioxidants should be consumed in sufficient quantities to minimise the effects of environmental pollutants. This study aimed to determine the direct toxic effects of GA and protective effects of vitamin C (VitC) against GA-induced damage in Sertoli cells by measuring cell viability, cytotoxicity, lipid peroxidation, ROS, antioxidant enzyme levels, apoptosis and DNA damage. Sertoli cells were exposed to GA for 24 hours at four different concentrations (ranging between 1 and 1000 μM) and in addition to these GA concentrations to VitC (50 μM). The results of cytotoxicity markers, such as cell viability and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) showed that GA significantly reduced cell viability and increased LDH levels. We also found that GA induced overproduction of intracellular ROS, increased lipid peroxidation in cellular membrane and triggered cell apoptosis and genotoxicity. In addition, VitC supplementation ameliorated the adverse effects of GA on Sertoli cells. Consequently, these findings suggestthat GA may damage the cell function in Sertoli cells, depending on the concentration. Additionally, it was evidenced that VitC has an ameliorative effect on toxicity caused by GA.