greenmedinfo--2020-08-01--Punicalagin damages the membrane of Salmonella typhimurium.

Salmonella , a bacterial , food-borne pathogen , can contaminate meat , milk , and vegetables .
While appropriate measures are available to control Salmonella , the inhibitory phytochemicals from plants are gaining increased attention .
Punicalagin , a natural antibiotic , is one of the main active tannins isolated from Punica granatum L .
To obtain a broader understanding of the effect of punicalagin on the cell membranes of Salmonella typhimurium , the killing kinetics , extracellular potassium concentration , release of cell constituents , intracellular pH ( pH in ) , membrane potential , and morphological features were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Treatment with punicalagin induced an increase in the extracellular concentrations of potassium and a release of cell constituents .
A higher pH gradient , an increase in the pH in and cell membrane depolarization were observed after punicalagin treatment .
Electron microscopy observations showed that the cell membrane structures of S. typhimurium were damaged by punicalagin .
It is concluded that punicalagin inhibits the proliferation of S. typhimurium and destroys the integrity of the cell membrane , leading to a loss of cell homeostasis .
These findings indicate that punicalagin has the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ preservative in order to control S. typhimurium contamination in food and reduce the risk of salmonellosis .

Salmonella , a bacterial, food-borne pathogen, can contaminate meat, milk, and vegetables. While appropriate measures are available to control Salmonella , the inhibitory phytochemicals from plants are gaining increased attention. Punicalagin, a natural antibiotic, is one of the main active tannins isolated from Punica granatum L . To obtain a broader understanding of the effect of punicalagin on the cell membranes of Salmonella typhimurium , the killing kinetics, extracellular potassium concentration, release of cell constituents, intracellular pH (pH in ), membrane potential, and morphological features were characterized to elucidate the mechanisms of action. Treatment with punicalagin induced an increase in the extracellular concentrations of potassium and a release of cell constituents. A higher pH gradient, an increase in the pH in and cell membrane depolarization were observed after punicalagin treatment. Electron microscopy observations showed that the cell membrane structures of S. typhimurium were damaged by punicalagin. It is concluded that punicalagin inhibits the proliferation of S. typhimurium and destroys the integrity of the cell membrane, leading to a loss of cell homeostasis. These findings indicate that punicalagin has the potential to be used as a food preservative in order to control S. typhimurium contamination in food and reduce the risk of salmonellosis.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-01--Cell death by Gallotannin is associated with inhibition of the JAK/STAT pathway in human colon cance

Cell death by Gallotannin is associated with inhibition of the JAK/STAT pathway in human colon cancer cells.

Background : Gallotannin ( GT ) is a polyphenol that possesses interesting anticancer properties .
However , the mechanisms underlying its antitumor effects have not been well defined .
Objective : This study was designed to clarify the mechanisms underlying GT antitumor effects in colon cancer cell lines .
Methods : Three isogenic HCT116 cell lines ( p53 , p53 , and p21 ) were treated with GT for different time points then Western blot , flow cytometry , and senescence analysis were performed to examine the effect of GT on Mitogen-activated protein kinase ( MAPK ) and Janus kinase @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of transcription ( STAT ) effectors , STAT3 downstream apoptotic targets , Sub-G1 phase , and programmed cell death induction .
Transfection using Invitrogen Lipofectamine 2000 Transfection Reagent ( Thermo Fisher Scientific , Waltham , Massachusetts ) were used to identify the role of p53 and p21 in the p53and p21cell lines .
Results : Both low and high GT concentrations caused MAPKs activation marked by upregulation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase ( p-ERK ) .
The preincubation with the antioxidant Tiron ( Sigma-Aldrich , St Louis , Missouri ) showed that GT 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ oxygen species .
We then examined the effect of GT on the JAK/STAT pathway , which is known to be activated in colorectal cancer .
GT totally inhibited the JAK/STAT pathway effectors JAK2 , STAT1 , and STAT3 and their downstream apoptotic regulators B-cell lymphoma-extra large ( Bcl-x ) and c-Myc in all 3 cell lines .
HCT116 cancer cells exhibited differential sensitivity to GT with p21cells being the most sensitive and p53cells that express p21 protein being the least sensitive .
In p53 cells , GT induced senescence , whereas in p53 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a caspase independent manner marked by Poly ( ADP-Ribose ) Polymerase ( PARP ) cleavage , Bcl-2 downregulation , and upregulation of the Bcl-2 associated X ( Bax ) to B-cell lymphoma 2 ( Bcl-2 ) ratio .
In addition , the sub-G1 phase exceeded 50 % in p21 cells .
Conclusions : Considered together , our results indicate that GT is potent inhibitor of the JAK/STAT pathway in colon cancer irrespective of the p53 and p21 status , which provides insights into its mechanism of anticancer activities and future potential for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 81 : XXX-XXX ) .

Background: Gallotannin (GT) is a polyphenol that possesses interesting anticancer properties. However, the mechanisms underlying its antitumor effects have not been well defined.
Objective: This study was designed to clarify the mechanisms underlying GT antitumor effects in colon cancer cell lines.
Methods: Three isogenic HCT116 cell lines (p53, p53, and p21) were treated with GT for different time points then Western blot, flow cytometry, and senescence analysis were performed to examine the effect of GT on Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) effectors, STAT3 downstream apoptotic targets, Sub-G1 phase, and programmed cell death induction. Transfection using Invitrogen Lipofectamine 2000 Transfection Reagent (Thermo Fisher Scientific, Waltham, Massachusetts) were used to identify the role of p53 and p21 in the p53and p21cell lines.
Results: Both low and high GT concentrations caused MAPKs activation marked by upregulation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (p-ERK). The preincubation with the antioxidant Tiron (Sigma-Aldrich, St Louis, Missouri) showed that GT's antitumor effects were not mediated by reactive oxygen species. We then examined the effect of GT on the JAK/STAT pathway, which is known to be activated in colorectal cancer. GT totally inhibited the JAK/STAT pathway effectors JAK2, STAT1, and STAT3 and their downstream apoptotic regulators B-cell lymphoma-extra large (Bcl-x) and c-Myc in all 3 cell lines. HCT116 cancer cells exhibited differential sensitivity to GT with p21cells being the most sensitive and p53cells that express p21 protein being the least sensitive. In p53 cells, GT induced senescence, whereas in p53 and p21 cells, GT induced apoptosis in a caspase independent manner marked by Poly(ADP-Ribose) Polymerase (PARP) cleavage, Bcl-2 downregulation, and upregulation of the Bcl-2 associated X (Bax) to B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) ratio. In addition, the sub-G1 phase exceeded 50% in p21 cells.
Conclusions: Considered together, our results indicate that GT is potent inhibitor of the JAK/STAT pathway in colon cancer irrespective of the p53 and p21 status, which provides insights into its mechanism of anticancer activities and future potential for clinical translation. (. 2020; 81:XXX-XXX).


greenmedinfo--2020-08-01--Kefir peptides alleviate high-fat diet-induced atherosclerosis.

In the past decade , the high morbidity and mortality of atherosclerotic disease have been prevalent worldwide .
High-fat food consumption has been suggested to be an overarching factor for atherosclerosis incidence .
This study aims to investigate the effects of kefir peptides on high-fat diet ( HFD ) -induced atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E knockout ( ApoE ) mice .
7-week old male ApoEand normal C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into five groups ( n = 8 ) .
Atherosclerotic lesion development in ApoEmice was established after fed the HFD for 12 weeks compared to standard chow diet ( SCD @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kefir peptides oral administration significantly improved atherosclerotic lesion development by protecting against endothelial dysfunction , decreasing oxidative stress , reducing aortic lipid deposition , attenuating macrophage accumulation , and suppressing the inflammatory immune response compared with the HFD/ApoEmock group .
Moreover , the high dose of kefir peptides substantially inhibited aortic fibrosis and restored the fibrosis in the aorta root close to that observed in the C57BL/6 normal control group .
Our findings show , for the first time , anti-atherosclerotic progression via kefir peptides consumption in HFD-fed ApoEmice .
The profitable effects @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its use as an anti-atherosclerotic agent in the preventive medicine .

In the past decade, the high morbidity and mortality of atherosclerotic disease have been prevalent worldwide. High-fat food consumption has been suggested to be an overarching factor for atherosclerosis incidence. This study aims to investigate the effects of kefir peptides on high-fat diet (HFD)-induced atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E knockout (ApoE) mice. 7-week old male ApoEand normal C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into five groups (n = 8). Atherosclerotic lesion development in ApoEmice was established after fed the HFD for 12 weeks compared to standard chow diet (SCD)-fed C57BL/6 and ApoEcontrol groups. Kefir peptides oral administration significantly improved atherosclerotic lesion development by protecting against endothelial dysfunction, decreasing oxidative stress, reducing aortic lipid deposition, attenuating macrophage accumulation, and suppressing the inflammatory immune response compared with the HFD/ApoEmock group. Moreover, the high dose of kefir peptides substantially inhibited aortic fibrosis and restored the fibrosis in the aorta root close to that observed in the C57BL/6 normal control group. Our findings show, for the first time, anti-atherosclerotic progression via kefir peptides consumption in HFD-fed ApoEmice. The profitable effects of kefir peptides provide new perspectives for its use as an anti-atherosclerotic agent in the preventive medicine.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-01--Kefir in the prevention and treatment of obesity and metabolic disorders.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW : This review summarizes recent animal and human trials examining the potential for kefir to improve obesity @ @ @ @ @ dyslipidemia , and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease ( NAFLD ) .
Evidence for pathways affected @ @ @ @ @ of action are also considered .
RECENT FINDINGS : Human trials examining the ability of @ @ @ @ @ benefits previously observed in rodent models have found mixed results .
Kefir has long been @ @ @ @ @ including obesity , diabetes , NAFLD , and dyslipidemia in preventative animal trials .
While @ @ @ @ @ supports a positive role of kefir in modulating diabetes-related markers , the impact of kefir @ @ @ @ @ , NAFLD , and body composition has been for the most part contradictory to animal @ @ @ @ @ for kefir fermentation poses a significant challenge in making meaningful comparisons .
Recommendations for future @ @ @ @ @ are provided .

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review summarizes recent animal and human trials examining the potential for kefir to improve obesity, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Evidence for pathways affected and suggestions of possible mechanisms of action are also considered.
RECENT FINDINGS: Human trials examining the ability of kefir to recapitulate metabolic health benefits previously observed in rodent models have found mixed results. Kefir has long been associated with improvements in health including obesity, diabetes, NAFLD, and dyslipidemia in preventative animal trials. While recent evidence from human trials supports a positive role of kefir in modulating diabetes-related markers, the impact of kefir consumption on markers of dyslipidemia, NAFLD, and body composition has been for the most part contradictory to animal findings. Variability in organisms for kefir fermentation poses a significant challenge in making meaningful comparisons. Recommendations for future well-controlled animal and human research are provided.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-01--This study revealed the longevity, anti-aging and heat stress tolerance effects of rice kefiran in n

This study revealed the longevity, anti-aging and heat stress tolerance effects of rice kefiran in nematodes.

Rice kefiran is superior in functionality , has high concentration of mucilaginous polysaccharide , and low lipid content , compared @ @ @ @ @ , reports on its physiological functionality , especially studies on life expectancy and aging , @ @ @ @ @ .
In this study , nematodes were used as model organisms that were fed rice @ @ @ @ @ as a result of which , the lifespan of nematodes was extended and age-related retardation @ @ @ @ @ It also increased the heat stress resistance in nematodes .
Experiments using daf-16 deletion mutant @ @ @ @ @ via DAF-16 .
Thus , this study revealed the longevity , anti-aging and heat stress @ @ @ @ @ in nematodes .

Rice kefiran is superior in functionality, has high concentration of mucilaginous polysaccharide, and low lipid content, compared to conventional kefiran. However, reports on its physiological functionality, especially studies on life expectancy and aging, in model organisms are rare. In this study, nematodes were used as model organisms that were fed rice kefiran, along withOP50, as a result of which, the lifespan of nematodes was extended and age-related retardation of mobility was suppressed. It also increased the heat stress resistance in nematodes. Experiments using daf-16 deletion mutant revealed that rice kefiran functions via DAF-16. Thus, this study revealed the longevity, anti-aging and heat stress tolerance effects of rice kefiran in nematodes.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-01--Low vitamin C was associated with higher periodontal disease stage.

BACKGROUND : Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss worldwide .
Current periodontal treatment is limited by its dependency on patients learning and maintaining good dental habits , and repeated visits to oral health physicians .
Vitamin C 's role in collagen synthesis and immune function makes it important in wound healing and possibly periodontal healing .
Therefore , if some patients are deficient , this may worsen patient outcomes .
METHODS : Patients were invited to participate following assessment and treatment at the Westmead Centre of Oral Health Periodontic Clinic , regardless of current disease stage or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gave informed consent and had current periodontal disease .
Study involvement consisted of periodontal assessment and care followed by an interview and measurement of serum vitamin C and C-reactive protein ( CRP ) .
RESULTS : A total of 6 out of 20 patients had vitamin C levels less than the institutional normal range , of whom 2 had levels < 11.4μmol/L and one < 28μmol/L .
Low vitamin C was associated with higher periodontal disease stage ( = 0.03 ) .
Elevated CRP was found in 2/3 of people with low vitamin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vitamin C ( < 0.01 ) .
Vitamin C did not correlate with patient-reported fruit or vegetable consumption , but high processed meat intake was associated with lower vitamin C. CONCLUSION : Although a small study , this rate of vitamin C deficiency in the periodontal clinic is clinically important and correlations with disease severity and CRP suggests biological importance .
This warrants further studies to assess vitamin C and whether supplementation improves periodontal outcomes , particularly in deficient subjects .

BACKGROUND: Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss worldwide. Current periodontal treatment is limited by its dependency on patients learning and maintaining good dental habits, and repeated visits to oral health physicians. Vitamin C's role in collagen synthesis and immune function makes it important in wound healing and possibly periodontal healing. Therefore, if some patients are deficient, this may worsen patient outcomes.
METHODS: Patients were invited to participate following assessment and treatment at the Westmead Centre of Oral Health Periodontic Clinic, regardless of current disease stage or treatment. Adults were eligible if they gave informed consent and had current periodontal disease. Study involvement consisted of periodontal assessment and care followed by an interview and measurement of serum vitamin C and C-reactive protein (CRP).
RESULTS: A total of 6 out of 20 patients had vitamin C levels less than the institutional normal range, of whom 2 had levels<11.4μmol/L and one<28μmol/L. Low vitamin C was associated with higher periodontal disease stage (= 0.03). Elevated CRP was found in 2/3 of people with low vitamin C and CRP was negatively correlated with vitamin C (<0.01). Vitamin C did not correlate with patient-reported fruit or vegetable consumption, but high processed meat intake was associated with lower vitamin C.
CONCLUSION: Although a small study, this rate of vitamin C deficiency in the periodontal clinic is clinically important and correlations with disease severity and CRP suggests biological importance. This warrants further studies to assess vitamin C and whether supplementation improves periodontal outcomes, particularly in deficient subjects.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-01--Vitamin C has a negative effect on S. mutans growth and biofilm formation.

BACKGROUND : Streptococcus mutans is a major cause of dental caries .
Its capacity to produce biofilm is fundamental in the pathogenesis of this ubiquitous condition .
As maintaining a healthy dentition is a genuine goal given the contemporary advance in caries control , researchers are striving to achieve a breakthrough in caries therapy .
We are taking the anti-cariogenic properties of vitamin C a step-further , considering the well-known evidence of the inversely proportionate relationship between salivary levels of vitamin C and dental caries .
The aim of this study was to determine MIC , MBC , biofilm prevention @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures of vitamin C against fresh clinical isolates of S. mutans to evaluate its efficacy as an anti-cariogenic agent .
RESULTS : Based on the data of four independent experiments done in quadruplicates , we found a concentration-dependent inhibitory effect of vitamin C on all S. mutans strains tested .
The average MBC , MIC , and BPC of vitamin C were found to be 10.16 , 9.38 , and 5.61 mg/ml , respectively .
Spectrophotometric quantitation of crystal violet showed diminished biofilm formation in the presence of vitamin C ( p CONCLUSION @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has a negative effect on S. mutans growth and biofilm formation .
Being the first to meticulously utilize BPC to explore a well-known effect of vitamin C , this report aims to help in the instigation of trials of higher evidence that will ultimately culminate in repurposing vitamin C as a novel anti-cariogenic agent , albeit further studies are required to provide auxiliary evidence in this context .

BACKGROUND: Streptococcus mutans is a major cause of dental caries. Its capacity to produce biofilm is fundamental in the pathogenesis of this ubiquitous condition. As maintaining a healthy dentition is a genuine goal given the contemporary advance in caries control, researchers are striving to achieve a breakthrough in caries therapy. We are taking the anti-cariogenic properties of vitamin C a step-further, considering the well-known evidence of the inversely proportionate relationship between salivary levels of vitamin C and dental caries. The aim of this study was to determine MIC, MBC, biofilm prevention concentration (BPC), and derivative measures of vitamin C against fresh clinical isolates of S. mutans to evaluate its efficacy as an anti-cariogenic agent.
RESULTS: Based on the data of four independent experiments done in quadruplicates, we found a concentration-dependent inhibitory effect of vitamin C on all S. mutans strains tested. The average MBC, MIC, and BPC of vitamin C were found to be 10.16, 9.38, and 5.61 mg/ml, respectively. Spectrophotometric quantitation of crystal violet showed diminished biofilm formation in the presence of vitamin C (p < 0.05). When compared with gentamicin, vitamin C produced a zone of inhibition that was three times as large against the clinical isolates.
CONCLUSION: Our results show that vitamin C has a negative effect on S. mutans growth and biofilm formation. Being the first to meticulously utilize BPC to explore a well-known effect of vitamin C, this report aims to help in the instigation of trials of higher evidence that will ultimately culminate in repurposing vitamin C as a novel anti-cariogenic agent, albeit further studies are required to provide auxiliary evidence in this context.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-01--Sayer Ji's Latest Livestream CORONA update and Q&A

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greenmedinfo--2020-08-01--Gallic acid could alleviate the noxious effects of paraquat on the antioxidant defense system and re

Gallic acid could alleviate the noxious effects of paraquat on the antioxidant defense system and renal tissue.

Paraquat ( PRQ ) is a toxic chemical compound that is very noxious to animals and humans .
Gallic acid is a phenolic compound that has antioxidant properties .
In this study , we evaluated the ameliorative effect of gallic acid against PRQ-induced renal injury and oxidative stress .
In this research , the rats were segregated into six groups .
Group 1 is the control group ; group 2 received paraquat only ; group 3 received gallic acid only ; and groups 4 , 5 , and 6 received paraquat plus gallic acid at doses of 25 , 50 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Findings of this work displayed that the renal contents of the vitamin C , superoxide dismutase ( SOD ) , and catalase ( CAT ) significantly reduced and the levels of the serum protein carbonyl , creatinine , serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase ( sGPT ) , urea , serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase ( sGOT ) , uric acid , MDA , serum IL-1β , and the kidney IL-1β gene expression were remarkably increased in the group receiving PRQ only compared with that in the control group .
On the other hand , treatment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ led to a significant elevation in renal vitamin C , SOD , and CAT levels plus a remarkable decrease in the serum protein carbonyl , creatinine , sGPT , urea , sGOT , uric acid , MDA , IL-1β , and renal gene expression of IL-1β in comparison with the PRQ-only-treated rats .
Histological changes were also ameliorated by gallic acid administration .
The data approve that gallic acid diminished the deleterious effects of PRQ exposure .
In this regard , our results indicated that the administration of gallic acid could alleviate the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ defense system and renal tissue .

Paraquat (PRQ) is a toxic chemical compound that is very noxious to animals and humans. Gallic acid is a phenolic compound that has antioxidant properties. In this study, we evaluated the ameliorative effect of gallic acid against PRQ-induced renal injury and oxidative stress. In this research, the rats were segregated into six groups. Group 1 is the control group; group 2 received paraquat only; group 3 received gallic acid only; and groups 4, 5, and 6 received paraquat plus gallic acid at doses of 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg bw respectively. Findings of this work displayed that the renal contents of the vitamin C, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) significantly reduced and the levels of the serum protein carbonyl, creatinine, serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (sGPT), urea, serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (sGOT), uric acid, MDA, serum IL-1β, and the kidney IL-1β gene expression were remarkably increased in the group receiving PRQ only compared with that in the control group. On the other hand, treatment with gallic acid after exposure to PRQ led to a significant elevation in renal vitamin C, SOD, and CAT levels plus a remarkable decrease in the serum protein carbonyl, creatinine, sGPT, urea, sGOT, uric acid, MDA, IL-1β, and renal gene expression of IL-1β in comparison with the PRQ-only-treated rats. Histological changes were also ameliorated by gallic acid administration. The data approve that gallic acid diminished the deleterious effects of PRQ exposure. In this regard, our results indicated that the administration of gallic acid could alleviate the noxious effects of PRQ on the antioxidant defense system and renal tissue.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-01--Kefir-based antimicrobials are being proposed as promising natural biopreservatives.

Kefir , a fermented dairy beverage , exhibits antimicrobial activity due to many metabolic products , including bacteriocins , generated @ @ @ @ @ In this study , the antimicrobial activities of artisanal kefir products from Fusion Tea ( @ @ @ @ @ B ) , Ireland ( I ) , Lithuania ( L ) , the Caucuses @ @ @ @ @ and South Korea ( K ) were investigated against select foodborne pathogens.CWD 1198 , serovar @ @ @ @ @ 25923 , andATCC 14579 were inhibited by artisanal kefirs made with kefir grains from diverse @ @ @ @ @ B , and I inhibited all bacterial indicator strains examined at varying levels , exceptATCC @ @ @ @ @ control ) .
Kefirs K , L , and C inhibited all indicator strains , @ @ @ @ @ Bacteriocins present in artisanal kefirs were determined to be the main antimicrobials in all kefirs @ @ @ @ @ being proposed as promising natural biopreservatives as per the results of the study .

Kefir, a fermented dairy beverage, exhibits antimicrobial activity due to many metabolic products, including bacteriocins, generated by lactic acid bacteria. In this study, the antimicrobial activities of artisanal kefir products from Fusion Tea (A), Britain (B), Ireland (I), Lithuania (L), the Caucuses region (C), and South Korea (K) were investigated against select foodborne pathogens.CWD 1198,serovar Enteritidis ATCC 13076,ATCC 25923, andATCC 14579 were inhibited by artisanal kefirs made with kefir grains from diverse origins. Kefirs A, B, and I inhibited all bacterial indicator strains examined at varying levels, exceptATCC 12435 (non-pathogenic, negative control). Kefirs K, L, and C inhibited all indicator strains, exceptATCC 25923 andATCC 12435. Bacteriocins present in artisanal kefirs were determined to be the main antimicrobials in all kefirs examined. Kefir-based antimicrobials are being proposed as promising natural biopreservatives as per the results of the study.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-01--Ameliorative effect of kefir against γ-irradiation induced liver injury in male rats: impact on oxid

Ameliorative effect of kefir against γ-irradiation induced liver injury in male rats: impact on oxidative stress and inflammation.

Ionizing radiation is a double-edged sword because of its benefits and risks to human health .
Therefore , protecting human organs from harmful effects of radiation is an important concern of researchers .
Kefir , as a good source of probiotics , received growing interest in protective medicine owing to its antioxidant , anti-inflammatory , and immunomodulatory properties .
Thus , this study was planned to investigate the protective role of kefir againstγ-radiation-induced hepatotoxicity .
Thirty-two male rats were distributed in four groups : ( I ) control , ( II ) received Kefir orally ( 5 ml/kg body weight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) exposed to whole body γ-irradiation ( 6.5 Gy ) to induce hepatotoxicity , and ( IV ) was pretreated with kefir for 21 days thenexposed to γ-irradiation followed by 7 days of kefir treatment .
At the end of the experiment , complete blood picture ( CBC ) , liver function , and lipid profile were estimated .
Furthermore , levels of lipid peroxidation , nitric oxide content , and endogenous antioxidants , in addition to concentrationsof copper , iron , and calcium were measured in liver tissue .
Furthermore , monocyte @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gene expression of nuclear factor kappa ( NF-κB ) were assessed .
The results revealed that oral administration of kefir significantly reduced the radiation-induced hepatichistological alterations , hepatic function impairment , and dyslipidemia .
Moreover , kefir notably ameliorated the state of oxidative stress and appeared to inhibit the induced inflammation .
This study provides a possible counteracting role of kefir against hepatotoxicity induced γ-radiation .
This can focus the benefit of kefir application as a prophylactic treatment to limit hepatic inflammation during radiotherapy .

Ionizing radiation is a double-edged sword because of its benefits and risks to human health. Therefore, protecting human organs from harmful effects of radiation is an important concern of researchers. Kefir, as a good source of probiotics, received growing interest in protective medicine owing to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. Thus, this study was planned to investigate the protective role of kefir againstγ-radiation-induced hepatotoxicity. Thirty-two male rats were distributed in four groups: (I) control, (II) received Kefir orally (5 ml/kg body weight) for 28 days, (III) exposed to whole body γ-irradiation (6.5 Gy) to induce hepatotoxicity, and (IV) was pretreated with kefir for 21 days thenexposed to γ-irradiation followed by 7 days of kefir treatment. At the end of the experiment, complete blood picture (CBC), liver function, and lipid profile were estimated. Furthermore, levels of lipid peroxidation, nitric oxide content, and endogenous antioxidants, in addition to concentrationsof copper, iron, and calcium were measured in liver tissue. Furthermore, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and relative gene expression of nuclear factor kappa (NF-κB) were assessed. The results revealed that oral administration of kefir significantly reduced the radiation-induced hepatichistological alterations, hepatic function impairment, and dyslipidemia. Moreover, kefir notably ameliorated the state of oxidative stress and appeared to inhibit the induced inflammation. This study provides a possible counteracting role of kefir against hepatotoxicity induced γ-radiation. This can focus the benefit of kefir application as a prophylactic treatment to limit hepatic inflammation during radiotherapy.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-01--Design and development of spirulina polysaccharide-loaded nanoemulsions with improved the antitumor

Design and development of spirulina polysaccharide-loaded nanoemulsions with improved the antitumor effects of paclitaxel.

In this study , we prepared spirulina polysaccharides into spirulina polysaccharide-loaded nanoemulsions ( SPS-NEs ) , and determined the antitumor @ @ @ @ @ combined with paclitaxel ( PTX ) .SPS-NEs were prepared by a phase transformation method .
@ @ @ @ @ SPS-NEs was measured .
The antitumor effect of SPS-NEs combined with PTX was determined by @ @ @ @ @ macrophages and S180 tumour-bearing mice.SPS-NEs were spherical and stable , the particle size of SPS-NEs @ @ @ @ @ , PDI = 0.235 ± 0.02 .
PTX + SPS-NEs exhibited a much greater toxicity @ @ @ @ @ PTX .
PTX + SPS-NEs increased the release of NO , IL-6 and TNF-α , @ @ @ @ @ NF-κB , p-I-κB , TLR4 .
In addition , PTX + SPS-NEs significantly inhibitedtumour growth @ @ @ @ @ the secretion of serum IL-2 , TNF-α and IFN-γ.SPS-NEs can regulate immunity through TLR4/NF-κB signalling @ @ @ @ @ anti-tumour effect of PTX .

In this study, we prepared spirulina polysaccharides into spirulina polysaccharide-loaded nanoemulsions (SPS-NEs), and determined the antitumor effect of SPS-NEs, when combined with paclitaxel (PTX).SPS-NEs were prepared by a phase transformation method. The Characterisation and stability of SPS-NEs was measured. The antitumor effect of SPS-NEs combined with PTX was determined by S180 cells or RAW 264.7 macrophages and S180 tumour-bearing mice.SPS-NEs were spherical and stable, the particle size of SPS-NEs was 84.6 ± 3.31 nm, PDI = 0.235 ± 0.02. PTX + SPS-NEs exhibited a much greater toxicity against RAW 264.7 cells than PTX. PTX + SPS-NEs increased the release of NO, IL-6 and TNF-α, and the expression of p-p65 NF-κB, p-I-κB, TLR4. In addition, PTX + SPS-NEs significantly inhibitedtumour growth by 72.82% and increased the secretion of serum IL-2, TNF-α and IFN-γ.SPS-NEs can regulate immunity through TLR4/NF-κB signalling pathways, which enhances the anti-tumour effect of PTX.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-01--The immune-enhancing potential of peptide fractions from fermented Spirulina platensis by mixed prob

The immune-enhancing potential of peptide fractions from fermented Spirulina platensis by mixed probiotics.

Mixed fermentation with different microorganisms can facilitate fermentation metabolism and increase the low molecular metabolites accumulation , thereby enhancing the bioactive activity .
In this study , we evaluated the immune-stimulating activities of Spirulina platensis and different extracts from fermented S. platensis ( FS ) by mixed probiotics in vitro , by measuring the proliferation and Th1/Th2 immunomodulatory potential on murine primary splenic lymphocytes .
The results showed that mixed fermentation enhanced the immunomodulatory activity of S. platensis with higher lymphocyte proliferation compared with non-fermented S. platensis ( NFS ) .
Notably , the low molecular weight ( < 3 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ platensis ( L-PFS ) , especially at 40 μg/ml , presented the strongest activity in promoting lymphocytes proliferation and modulating cytokines ( IL-2 and IL-10 ) secretion .
Meanwhile , L-PFS enhanced the relative mRNA expression of Th1 cytokine ( IFN-γ ) and Th2cytokine ( IL-4 ) , along with inhibiting the relative mRNA expression of Th1 cytokines ( IL-2 and TNF-α ) and Th2 cytokine ( IL-10 ) compared with Concanavalin A-treated lymphocytes .
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS : Fermentation with mixed probiotics could effectively improve the bioactive activity of S. platensis .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could significantly contribute to the immune-enhancing activity of lymphocytes , promote the Th1/Th2 balance , and provide insights for the investigation of FS as the potential immunomodulatory food products .

Mixed fermentation with different microorganisms can facilitate fermentation metabolism and increase the low molecular metabolites accumulation, thereby enhancing the bioactive activity. In this study, we evaluated the immune-stimulating activities of Spirulina platensis and different extracts from fermented S. platensis (FS) by mixed probiotics in vitro, by measuring the proliferation and Th1/Th2 immunomodulatory potential on murine primary splenic lymphocytes. The results showed that mixed fermentation enhanced the immunomodulatory activity of S. platensis with higher lymphocyte proliferation compared with non-fermented S. platensis (NFS). Notably, the low molecular weight (<3 kDa) peptide fraction from fermented S. platensis (L-PFS), especially at 40 μg/ml, presented the strongest activity in promoting lymphocytes proliferation and modulating cytokines (IL-2 and IL-10) secretion. Meanwhile, L-PFS enhanced the relative mRNA expression of Th1 cytokine (IFN-γ) and Th2cytokine (IL-4), along with inhibiting the relative mRNA expression of Th1 cytokines (IL-2 and TNF-α) and Th2 cytokine (IL-10) compared with Concanavalin A-treated lymphocytes. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Fermentation with mixed probiotics could effectively improve the bioactive activity of S. platensis. In particular, L-PFS screened from the FS could significantly contribute to the immune-enhancing activity of lymphocytes, promote the Th1/Th2 balance, and provide insights for the investigation of FS as the potential immunomodulatory food products.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-01--These findings demonstrated that the neuroprotective role of theanine was associated with its anti-o

These findings demonstrated that the neuroprotective role of theanine was associated with its anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties.

AIMS : Theanine , as a naturally occurring component in tea , has been shown to deliver benefits against various diseases .
However , the exact molecular mechanisms underlying theanine 's protective actions against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion ( IR ) injury still remains largely unknown .
MAIN METHODS : In this study , rat cerebral IR injury model was established and were randomly divided into the following five groups : Sham ( SH ) , IR , IR + Theanine ( TH ) , IR + TH+ heme oxygenase-1 ( HO-1 ) inducer cobalt protoporphyrin ( Copp ) , and IR @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We found that theanine significantly inhibited neuron damage and apoptosis in the hippocampus during the 48 h detection period , as detected by hematoxylin and eosin ( HE ) and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling ( TUNEL ) staining .
Meanwhile , reduced levels of malondialdehyde ( MDA ) and elevated activities of superoxide dismutase ( SOD ) , glutathione ( GSH ) , and glutathione peroxidase ( GSH-PX ) were observed in the theanine-treated group .
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent ( ELISA ) assay also revealed that theanine markedly decreased the levels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , IL-1β , and TNF-α , in IR rats .
The anti-apoptotic effect of theanine on IR injury was further verified byflow cytometry assay .
Besides , theanine dramatically inhibited HO-1 expression and activity but increased extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 ( ERK1/2 ) activity in hippocampal tissue from rats with cerebral IR injury .
However , co-treatment with Copp remarkably abolished the protective effectsof theanine on cerebral IR injury .
SIGNIFICANCE : These findings demonstrated that the neuroprotective role of theanine was associated with its anti-oxidative , anti-inflammatory , and anti-apoptotic properties , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ activation in rats with cerebral IR injury .

AIMS: Theanine, as a naturally occurring component in tea, has been shown to deliver benefits against various diseases. However, the exact molecular mechanisms underlying theanine's protective actions against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury still remains largely unknown.
MAIN METHODS: In this study, rat cerebral IR injury model was established and were randomly divided into the following five groups: Sham (SH), IR, IR + Theanine (TH), IR + TH+ heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) inducer cobalt protoporphyrin (Copp), and IR + Copp groups.
KEY FINDINGS: We found that theanine significantly inhibited neuron damage and apoptosis in the hippocampus during the 48 h detection period, as detected by hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining. Meanwhile, reduced levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and elevated activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) were observed in the theanine-treated group. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent (ELISA) assay also revealed that theanine markedly decreased the levels of inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α, in IR rats. The anti-apoptotic effect of theanine on IR injury was further verified byflow cytometry assay. Besides, theanine dramatically inhibited HO-1 expression and activity but increased extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) activity in hippocampal tissue from rats with cerebral IR injury. However, co-treatment with Copp remarkably abolished the protective effectsof theanine on cerebral IR injury.
SIGNIFICANCE: These findings demonstrated that the neuroprotective role of theanine was associated with its anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties, which might be through regulation of HO-1 activation in rats with cerebral IR injury.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-01--This study suggests that the airborne route is not the predominant mode of transmission of SARS-CoV-

This study suggests that the airborne route is not the predominant mode of transmission of SARS-CoV-2.

BACKGROUND : The role of severe respiratory coronavirus virus 2 ( SARS-CoV-2 ) -laden aerosols in the transmission of coronavirus disease 2019 ( COVID-19 ) remains uncertain .
Discordant findings of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in air samples were noted in early reports .
METHODS : Sampling of air close to 6 asymptomatic and symptomatic COVID-19 patients with and without surgical masks was performed with sampling devices using sterile gelatin filters .
Frequently touched environmental surfaces near 21 patients were swabbed before daily environmental disinfection .
The correlation between the viral loads of patients ' clinical samples and environmental samples was analyzed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ negative for SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the 6 patients singly isolated inside airborne infection isolation rooms ( AIIRs ) with 12 air changes per hour .
Of 377 environmental samples near 21 patients , 19 ( 5.0 % ) were positive by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction ( RT-PCR ) assay , with a median viral load of 9.2× 102 copies/mL ( range , 1.1 × 102 to 9.4 × 104 copies/mL ) .
The contamination rate was highest on patients ' mobile phones ( 6 of 77 , 7.8 % ) , followed by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 5.4 % ) and toilet door handles ( 4 of 76 , 5.3 % ) .
We detected a significant correlation between viral load ranges in clinical samples and positivity rate of environmental samples ( P CONCLUSION : SARS-CoV-2 RNA was not detectable by air samplers , which suggests that the airborne route is not the predominant mode of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 .
Wearing a surgical mask , appropriate hand hygiene , and thorough environmental disinfection are sufficient infection control measures for COVID-19 patients isolated singly in AIIRs .
However , this conclusion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in cohort wards with large numbers of COVID-19 patients .

BACKGROUND: The role of severe respiratory coronavirus virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)-laden aerosols in the transmission of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) remains uncertain. Discordant findings of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in air samples were noted in early reports.
METHODS: Sampling of air close to 6 asymptomatic and symptomatic COVID-19 patients with and without surgical masks was performed with sampling devices using sterile gelatin filters. Frequently touched environmental surfaces near 21 patients were swabbed before daily environmental disinfection. The correlation between the viral loads of patients' clinical samples and environmental samples was analyzed.
RESULTS: All air samples were negative for SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the 6 patients singly isolated inside airborne infection isolation rooms (AIIRs) with 12 air changes per hour. Of 377 environmental samples near 21 patients, 19 (5.0%) were positive by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay, with a median viral load of 9.2× 102 copies/mL (range, 1.1 × 102 to 9.4 × 104 copies/mL). The contamination rate was highest on patients' mobile phones (6 of 77, 7.8%), followed by bed rails (4 of 74, 5.4%) and toilet door handles (4 of 76, 5.3%). We detected a significant correlation between viral load ranges in clinical samples and positivity rate of environmental samples (P<.001).
CONCLUSION: SARS-CoV-2 RNA was not detectable by air samplers, which suggests that the airborne route is not the predominant mode of transmission of SARS-CoV-2. Wearing a surgical mask, appropriate hand hygiene, and thorough environmental disinfection are sufficient infection control measures for COVID-19 patients isolated singly in AIIRs. However, this conclusion may not apply during aerosol-generating procedures or in cohort wards with large numbers of COVID-19 patients.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-01--Top 12 Natural Remedies That Actually Work


greenmedinfo--2020-08-02--Ascorbic acid: The chemistry underlying its antioxidant properties.

Ascorbic acid ( vitamin C ) is an unusual antioxidant in that it donates a single reducing equivalent , and @ @ @ @ @ monodehydroascorbate , reacts preferentially with radicals instead of with non-radical compounds .
This happens because @ @ @ @ @ monodehydroascorbate would create a tricarbonyl structure that is energetically unfavored .
Instead of forming this @ @ @ @ @ only to monodehydroascorbate , and monodehydroascorbate reacts with other radicals , oxidizing by mechanisms that @ @ @ @ @ unfavored structure .
Ironically , this tricarbonyl compound , which we suggest be called pseudodehydroascorbate @ @ @ @ @ cited as the real product of ascorbic acid oxidation .
In fact , it has @ @ @ @ @ years that dehydroascorbate has a bicyclic hemiketal structure , and kinetic considerations suggest that it @ @ @ @ @ without forming pseudodehydroascorbate as an intermediate .
This and other significant questions about the chemical @ @ @ @ @ of ascorbic acid are obscured by this misconception about its oxidation product , dehydroascorbate .

Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is an unusual antioxidant in that it donates a single reducing equivalent, and the radical it forms, monodehydroascorbate, reacts preferentially with radicals instead of with non-radical compounds. This happens because removal of an electron from monodehydroascorbate would create a tricarbonyl structure that is energetically unfavored. Instead of forming this structure, ascorbic acid oxidizes only to monodehydroascorbate, and monodehydroascorbate reacts with other radicals, oxidizing by mechanisms that may circumvent formation of this unfavored structure. Ironically, this tricarbonyl compound, which we suggest be called pseudodehydroascorbate, is commonly and mistakenly cited as the real product of ascorbic acid oxidation. In fact, it has been known for over 40 years that dehydroascorbate has a bicyclic hemiketal structure, and kinetic considerations suggest that it may be produced and reduced without forming pseudodehydroascorbate as an intermediate. This and other significant questions about the chemical basis of the antioxidant properties of ascorbic acid are obscured by this misconception about its oxidation product, dehydroascorbate.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-02--Hypothesis: Face Mask Induced O2 Depletion and CO2 Enrichment Elicit Fear and Anxiety (i.e. Trauma-B

Hypothesis: Face Mask Induced O2 Depletion and CO2 Enrichment Elicit Fear and Anxiety (i.e. Trauma-Based Control)

Wearing a face mask may carry a steep physiological price , adversely impacting your health and well-being in these already extremely stressful times .
Concerns about the harms of mask wearing continue to increase , especially ever since numerous US states began mandating their use as a non-pharmaceutical intervention intended to contain the spread of coronavirus -- even in the glaring absence of unequivocal clinical or epidemiology proof .
We now see before us , the world over , one of the largest human experiments ever conducted using an intervention that was not once proven effective or safe for preventing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in community settings , through the kind of randomized , placebo-controlled , clinical trials you would expect for it to be rolled out and mandated by our government for hundreds of millions of people , simultaneously .
Recently , government officials ( such as Miami ’ s mayor Frances Suarez ) have even suggested that people should wear masks within their homes to protect family members , adding an element of absurdity and hyperbole to this highly questionable health policy , non-compliance with which can result in fines and even jail time .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ an immediate stand against mandatory mask wearing , in your homes , churches , communities , and schools , use the campaign set up by the non-profit health freedom organization Stand For Health Freedom here .
But what are the risks and benefits of mask wearing ?
And shouldn ’ t they both be known in order that the medical ethical principle of informed consent be practiced ?
While the pro-mask side , promoted through tens of thousands of mainstream media and government messages , daily , is that masks are a priori @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to wear them is harmful to others , a growing body of scientific literature profoundly contradicts and refutes this narrative .
Despite appearances , these proclamations are not based on a sold scientific evidence-base .
Visit QuestioningCovid.com to view the first section , “ Response to Mandates : Masks , ” to hear testimony and review cited research indicating they are farm from safe or effective .
Take a look at a recent meta-analysis on mask wearing that raises even more doubt that they have any value in the present coronavirus crisis here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the down side of masks , you can read neurosurgeon Dr. Robert Blaylock ’ s article on the topic here : Dr. Blaylock : Face Masks Pose Serious Risks to the Healthy Or , view the study abstracts on the GreenMedInfo database on facemask research .
Given the , at best , equivocal research supporting mask wearing , there are more questions than answers as to what the overarching effects will be from this widespread , coerced or mandated human experiment .
One thing that has become clear in the increasingly contentious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is an increased level of fear and anger between the two sides of this polarized and polarizing issue .
Mask-wearers believe they are either protecting themselves , or virtue signaling their willingness to sacrifice their own convenience and safety to protect , the story goes , those who are “ immunocompromised '' ( note : they assume as true what is still to be questioned , namely , their safety and effectiveness ) .
Therefore to the pro-maskers , those refusing to wear them are selfish and are even percevied as active threats @ @ @ @ @ @ @ On the other side , those who refuse to wear masks either believe it is unhealthy for them to do so , or believe that donning the masks are a form of submission signalling .
And that the masks are symbolic of an almost ritualistic and mindless obedience to the power of the State , or an agenda that stretches far beyond our sovereign nation ’ s borders and it being controlled by interests or individuals who are manipulating us into giving up our civil liberties and health freedom for a psychological operation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our formerly enjoyed freedoms .
No matter which side of the debate you are on , the reality is that fear and anger are activated on both sides , and this is on some level most concerning of all , as this will result in dividing us all and creating even more dis-ease when the point right now is to find as much security , safety , and resilience as possible by working together and learning to co-exist despite our differences .
Could Masks Be Increasing Fear and Anxiety In Those Who Wear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new dimension to the debate worth considering is the role that mask-wearing may have on increasing the fear response within those wearing them .
This would , in theory , aggravate the already heightened fear that an invisible particle named COVID-19 may present a ubiquitious and lethal threat to their health .
Moreover , those who may not be fearful , but decide to wear the masks because they are told it would be the right thing for them to do to protect others , might actually experience heightened fear as a result @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a positive feedback loop , or put otherwise , a self-fulfilling prophecy of reifying and catastrophyzing a situation or perceived threat that may be much less harmful and far more overblown than is the reality .
Indeed , a study published in the journal Cell titled , “ The Amygdala is a Chemosensor that Detects Carbon Dioxide and Acidosis to Elicit Fear Behavior , ” indicates mammalian brain physiology responds to the inhibition of O2 ( hypoxemia ) and elevated ( hypercarbia ) CO2 levels with increased fear , mediated through the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As referenced above through various cited references , mask wearing adversely affects brain and whole body physiology through a number of known and unknown mechanisms .
One particularly eye-opening example of this is apparent in a study titled , “ Headaches and the N95 face‐mask amongst healthcare providers , ” which reports that of the 212 healthcare workers required to wear N95 face masks for their job , 79 ( 37.3 % ) respondents reported face-mask associated headaches .
The study noted that headaches of the kind observed in the study have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
While the study did not look at the respondents ’ levels of fear or anxiety , it is possible that further research will show that , indeed , headaches are only one of a number of neuropsychiatric negative consequences of wearing masks .
Here is the study abstract on the amygdala-mediated fear response elicited by the suppression of oxygen and increase in CO2 in the rodent model : The conclusion of study addressed a number of provocative findings : • Our results now indicate that the amygdala does more than mediate the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ important chemosensory role .
• That CO2 initiates a fear response is particularly intriguing because rising CO2 forewarns suffocation , a terrifying situation that demands sensitive detection and action to ensure survival .
Thus , it is interesting that evolution positioned a sensor for hypercarbic acidosis in the amygdala , a structure that stimulates the sympathetic nervous system for fight-or-flight and links to other brain regions involved in the response to threat .
Thus , the amygdala both senses a threat , posed by CO2 , and initiates a response .
• The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forming memories of events that induce strong emotions ( Kim and Jung , 2006 ; Maren , 2008 ) .
It is key to learning the association between conditioned and unconditioned , aversive , fear-evoking stimuli ( Kim and Jung , 2006 ; Maren , 2008 ) .
Our discovery that CO2 enhanced context fear-conditioning reveals a previously unrecognized relationship between CO2 and fear memory .
• It has long been known that breathing CO2 triggers panic attacks in patients with panic disorder ( Drury , 1918 ; Klein , 1993 ; Papp @ @ @ @ @ @ @ al.
, 1989 ) , and that these patients show an increased sensitivity to CO2 inhalation ( Papp et al.
, 1993 ; Rassovsky and Kushner , 2003 ) .
Dysregulated brain pH has also been implicated in panic disorder ( Friedman , 2006 ; Maddock , 2001 ) .
In addition , patients with increasing hypercarbia due to respiratory failure become extremely anxious ( Smoller et al.
, 1996 ) .
Our studies suggest a molecular and anatomical foundation for further dissecting CO2-triggered anxiety and panic in humans .
Could wearing masks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around the world actually activate an ancient limbic brain-based fear and anxiety response , essentially inducing a form of trauma-based mind and behavioral control ?
Moreover , is n't it true that activating the sympathetic immune system 's fight-or-flight response has deleterious effects for resistance against infection and a variety of chronic diseases ?
These are provocative questions , but should be asked , especially for anyone who is considering wearing a mask because they have been told or believe it will “ protect ” them or others .

Visit our Re-post guidelines This article is copyrighted by GreenMedInfo LLC, 2020
Wearing a face mask may carry a steep physiological price, adversely impacting your health and well-being in these already extremely stressful times.
Concerns about the harms of mask wearing continue to increase, especially ever since numerous US states began mandating their use as a non-pharmaceutical intervention intended to contain the spread of coronavirus -- even in the glaring absence of unequivocal clinical or epidemiology proof.
We now see before us, the world over, one of the largest human experiments ever conducted using an intervention that was not once proven effective or safe for preventing the transmission of a respiratory virus, in community settings, through the kind of randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trials you would expect for it to be rolled out and mandated by our government for hundreds of millions of people, simultaneously.
Source: Business Insider.
Recently, government officials (such as Miami’s mayor Frances Suarez) have even suggested that people should wear masks within their homes to protect family members, adding an element of absurdity and hyperbole to this highly questionable health policy, non-compliance with which can result in fines and even jail time. For those who would like to take an immediate stand against mandatory mask wearing, in your homes, churches, communities, and schools, use the campaign set up by the non-profit health freedom organization Stand For Health Freedom here.
But what are the risks and benefits of mask wearing? And shouldn’t they both be known in order that the medical ethical principle of informed consent be practiced?
While the pro-mask side, promoted through tens of thousands of mainstream media and government messages, daily, is that masks are a priori safe and effective, and that refusal to wear them is harmful to others, a growing body of scientific literature profoundly contradicts and refutes this narrative. Despite appearances, these proclamations are not based on a sold scientific evidence-base. Visit QuestioningCovid.com to view the first section, “Response to Mandates: Masks,” to hear testimony and review cited research indicating they are far from safe or effective. Take a look at a recent meta-analysis on mask wearing that raises even more doubt that they have any value in the present coronavirus crisis here. For a review of the literature on the down side of masks, you can read neurosurgeon Dr. Robert Blaylock’s article on the topic here: Dr. Blaylock: Face Masks Pose Serious Risks to the Healthy Or, view the study abstracts on the GreenMedInfo database on facemask research.
Given the, at best, equivocal research supporting mask wearing, there are more questions than answers as to what the overarching effects will be from this widespread, coerced or mandated human experiment.
Pro-Mask versus Anti-Mask...What Both Sides Stand To Lose
One thing that has become clear in the increasingly contentious debate around mask wearing is that there is an increased level of fear and anger between the two sides of this polarized and polarizing issue. Mask-wearers believe they are either protecting themselves, or virtue signaling their willingness to sacrifice their own convenience and safety to protect, the story goes, those who are “immunocompromised" (note: they assume as true what is still to be questioned, namely, their safety and effectiveness). Therefore to the pro-maskers, those refusing to wear them are selfish and are even percevied as active threats to themselves or those they love. On the other side, those who refuse to wear masks either believe it is unhealthy for them to do so, or believe that donning the masks are a form of submission signalling. And that the masks are symbolic of an almost ritualistic and mindless obedience to the power of the State, or an agenda that stretches far beyond our sovereign nation’s borders and it being controlled by interests or individuals who are manipulating us into giving up our civil liberties and health freedom for a psychological operation that is intent in stripping us from our formerly enjoyed freedoms. No matter which side of the debate you are on, the reality is that fear and anger are activated on both sides, and this is on some level most concerning of all, as this will result in dividing us all and creating even more dis-ease when the point right now is to find as much security, safety, and resilience as possible by working together and learning to co-exist despite our differences.
Could Masks Be Increasing Fear and Anxiety In Those Who Wear Them?
Given this context, a new dimension to the debate worth considering is the role that mask-wearing may have on increasing the fear response within those wearing them. This would, in theory, aggravate the already heightened fear that an invisible particle named COVID-19 may present a ubiquitious and lethal threat to their health.
Moreover, those who may not be fearful, but decide to wear the masks because they are told it would be the right thing for them to do to protect others, might actually experience heightened fear as a result of wearing one, hence creating something of a positive feedback loop, or put otherwise, a self-fulfilling prophecy of reifying and catastrophyzing a situation or perceived threat that may be much less harmful and far more overblown than is the reality.
Indeed, a study published in the journal Cell titled, “The Amygdala is a Chemosensor that Detects Carbon Dioxide and Acidosis to Elicit Fear Behavior,” indicates mammalian brain physiology responds to the inhibition of O2 (hypoxemia) and elevated (hypercarbia) CO2 levels with increased fear, mediated through the limbic brain structure known as the amygdala.
As referenced above through various cited references, mask wearing adversely affects brain and whole body physiology through a number of known and unknown mechanisms. One particularly eye-opening example of this is apparent in a study titled, “Headaches and the N95 face‐mask amongst healthcare providers,” which reports that of the 212 healthcare workers required to wear N95 face masks for their job, 79 (37.3%) respondents reported face-mask associated headaches. The study noted that headaches of the kind observed in the study have been ascribed to both hypoxemia and hypercarbia. While the study did not look at the respondents’ levels of fear or anxiety, it is possible that further research will show that, indeed, headaches are only one of a number of neuropsychiatric negative consequences of wearing masks.
Here is the study abstract on the amygdala-mediated fear response elicited by the suppression of oxygen and increase in CO2 in the rodent model:
“The amygdala processes and directs inputs and outputs that are key to fear behavior. However, whether it directly senses fear-evoking stimuli is unknown. Because the amygdala expresses acid sensing ion channel-1a (ASIC1a), and ASIC1a is required for normal fear responses, we hypothesized that the amygdala might detect a reduced pH. We found that inhaled CO2 reduced brain pH and evoked fear behavior in mice. Eliminating or inhibiting ASIC1a markedly impaired this activity, and localized ASIC1a expression in the amygdala rescued the CO2- induced fear deficit of ASIC1a-null animals. Buffering pH attenuated fear behavior, whereas directly reducing pH with amygdala microinjections reproduced the effect of CO2. These data identify the amygdala as an important chemosensor that detects hypercarbia and acidosis and initiates behavioral responses. They also give a molecular explanation for how rising CO2 concentrations elicit intense fear and provide a foundation for dissecting the bases of anxiety and panic disorders.”
The conclusion of study addressed a number of provocative findings:
Could wearing masks as presently mandated in so many places around the world actually activate an ancient limbic brain-based fear and anxiety response, essentially inducing a form of trauma-based mind and behavioral control? Moreover, isn't it true that activating the sympathetic immune system's fight-or-flight response has deleterious effects for resistance against infection and a variety of chronic diseases? These are provocative questions, but should be asked, especially for anyone who is considering wearing a mask because they have been told or believe it will “protect” them or others.