Dopamine

I certainly believe that dopamine can be raised ourselves, how else would I believe in Chinese Medicine? Needles activate qi, which activates blood, which promotes a regulation of energy which then allows our system to release hormones, like dopamine. In fact, as I was putting needles in my patient last night a brief thought ran through my mind: I never thought I'd wake up every day, and know my goal would be to put needles in someone... because I LOVE it so very much. What does that induce for me? Happiness. Other such aspects of life can do the same. For me personally, walking my dog, hiking in the mountains, laying on a beach (anytime, anywhere, hot or cold), delicious wine with fabulous friends, family days... these wonderful components to my life trigger my happy hormones, definitely. When I'm not feeling well, emotionally or physically, I will search for my "happy triggers" to immediately raise my good vibrational energy. For example, currently what I loathe is Week 7- my 7th trimester of grueling exams, back to back.... But when I begin to focus on the oncoming exhaustion, I remind myself that the Saturday after, I'm flying to Palm Springs for a weekend with the girls. Happy trigger, released all by myself.

Drugs for all, drugs for everything...maybe

The question as to whether there is a drug for every malady is a good one indeed. It seems, as someone who has ventured to the doctor when feeling ill, that when I have presented with particular signs and symptoms, the doctor has been more than accommodating in providing me with some pharmaceutical of sorts. There were rare occasions in which the doctor shrugged, empathized, and sent me home empty-handed. And yet, I feel grateful that I've presented with illness that can be treated. Lucky for me.

I am currently taking Integrative Medicine and the topic of study ranges from Infectious Disease to Oncology, to Pediatrics. Discussed in class today was Hepatitis, as an example. Although there are immunizations for Hep B, one cannot be protected from Hep C. And treatment? Minimal. Sounds as though it's a "wait and watch" phenomenon, and hope that the acute phase does not remain in the system longer than 6 months, before becoming chronic. Inferon is the drug used to counteract the virus, and the side effects are so severe (similar to influenza) that the patient does not feel good health, but is laid up with a false-flu. So, although there is an anti-viral class of drugs available, it does not guarantee remission, nor any further viral discourse.

Clinical experience has also afforded me the exposure to various illnesses in which patients are venturing into TCM, because Western medicine has offered no alternative. In that sense, there are not drugs for everything...it just seems that way.

Cybernetics

I appreciate Wikipedia. The definition of autopoiesis, the examples and explanations that followed were helpful in breaking it down. I'm slightly challenged scientifically, and so, my question is: how does this relate to cybernetics?
The definition of which I looked up, read on:
"cy·ber·net·ics /ˌsaɪbərˈnɛtɪks/ Pronunciation Key - Show Spelled Pronunciation[sahy-ber-net-iks] ) the study of human control functions and of mechanical and electronic systems designed to replace them, involving the application of statistical mechanics to communication engineering.

Any thoughts?

Human = Chimps, definitely so

As I try to deliberate as to what response is merited for this article, the only thought that comes to mind is, finally. Many individuals, scientists and other have suggested the relationship between the Homo genus, and chimps, gorillas and orangutans. Regardless of DNA links, we all look alike! The physical similarities simply illustrate the fact that the human species is somehow, intricately linked with one or more of the above mentioned animals. And now, I applaud genetic tests which prove that the DNA between humans and chimps is legitimate, we are and should be one genus. I'm always surprised at how individuals care so much if we're somehow linked genetically, what does it matter?! They are beautiful, nurturing animals and apparently, 99.4% identical to us... so, let's welcome them, as we would family.

Human Genetic Evolution, response

I quite enjoyed reading through several of the topics listed on this website. The summary and/or brief introductions were helpful in reminding me of what the Big Bang Theory is, or rather, what it means. Other articles were short, yet informative- "Where did we come from? Where did we go?" I particularly liked the mention of the Zuni legend which explores evolution from a belief that, "humankind evolved from amphibious forms in the belly of Mother Earth, after she mated with Father Sky"- how beautiful a description... Does theory of evolution require DNA coding, decoding, mapping, traveling, etc.. by a myriad of researchers? Although fascinating to explore where we came from, how do we examine what is, remain present and in tune with what exists today? There will continue to be suggestions from researchers that may give light to the above questions of where, where, where- but I appreciate the being of now more. We are here. We were there. We will be somewhere else in the universe at some point. Allow what was and be present for what is.

Bacteria, you win

This particular subject is of interest to me, as I am simultaneously taking one of our Integrative Medicine classes and we've just covered Infectious Disease. While a thrilling (and frightening) subject, what was reiterated throughout the first 3 lectures was that bacteria is not going anywhere and in fact, is winning the war. So, upon reading this website article on various bacterial organisms, the following statement stood out to me: "Humans thought that antibiotics would end infectious diseases, but the overuse of drugs has resulted in the selection of drug resistant bacteria. They didn't realize that this was only the first battle, and now the war is ready to begin." Apparently my class of 12 is not the only group aware of this anomaly. So, as practitioners of medicine, be it Eastern or Western, we are now an integral component to a community in which bacterial, infectious disease is prominent- not only as practitioners, but as members of the universe. Dr. Robinson (president at AIMC, retired surgeon, and teacher of IM courses) has stated in his biomedicine book, "Bacteria, viruses, and fungi may be the key to life, but they are also trying to outsmart and destroy us. They do not need sex, and they have mastered the quest for long life. Some spores can last thousands of years and still be alive."
Great. He lists at least 5 examples of how the conflict between humans and bacteria has persisted, which support the article we've read online for this class. Essentially, bacteria that were sensitive to antibiotics are now resistant. Bacteria can exchange successfully mutated segments of DNA with other bacteria= the entire colony becomes resistant. In addition microorganisms have baffled the immune system response, affecting how it battles viruses.
I suppose it is important to be aware of such dynamics, especially as budding medical practitioners, but sometimes... ignorance is bliss.

Darwinism & Me

My exposure to Darwinism has been quite minimal. It seems the concept has become an everyday sort of word, one that I have thrown around freely- as though I have some semblance of what it truly means. Therefore, the opportunity to read and learn a bit more into what Darwinism signifies, beyond my basic understanding, is something I appreciate. I found the article by Nancy Pearcey, "Why Darwinism Matters" most helpful, as a non-scientist it allowed a small understanding of the theoretical and practical application of Darwinism. As Pearcey discusses how Darwinism influences morality, education, law and family, she asks quite clearly: "What difference does Darwinism make, and what impact has it had, on questions like morality and the law, the family and education?" These are good questions indeed. The discussion which followed each topic was interesting and insightful, but I openly admit: I was more often confused, instead of feeling a certain sense of clarity about Darwin and his influence on society, I was rereading and trying to connect the dots. Thus, the theory of natural selection in regards to evolutionary development remains the same for me. I am a believer, the strong survive. Go Darwin!

Evo-Devo & Lucy

The continuous unfolding of the fossilized skeleton, Lucy, is illustrious of how historical anthropological evidence can serve to better understand evolutionary development. Although Lucy's remains were found over 20 years ago, research and published articles still make their way into the public eye. "Meet the ancestors: the story of our evolution continues" is another example of this phenomenon, and Lucy is to thank. As I mentioned in class, I believe I saw the skeleton at the World's Fair in Germany, 2000. It was remarkable to examine (through thick, plate glass) the fossils, reaching only 3' 8, but 3.2 million years old. The remains were so small, and yet it was reminiscent of something- ah yes, the human skeleton (see below). Scientists have continued to uncover more fossils and piece together (literally) how we have evolved to Homo sapiens, examining pelvic structures, foot bones, brain size, in addition to atmospheric change and how climate had an impact on existing species. I believe it is a gift to have evidence of the evolutionary process; it is difficult to be skeptical when there exists tangible, visible structures which illustrate development of species. I am appreciative of these learning devices and look forward to more discoveries, which will further enhance our understanding of evo-devo and how perhaps, as Homo sapiens, we can avoid catastrophe and extinction...

Fossil Hominids: Lucy (AL 288-1)

Babies, babies...

The article and subsequent class discussion on how babies are quite adept at knowing 'good or bad' was interesting and not at all surprising. Although babies cannot vocalize thoughts and feelings it is apparent in social dynamics who babies are most comfortable with. There is clearly an instinctual, inner compass that babies listen to and respond with. I have been in social situations where the token infant is passed along for all to hug and adore, however, those who aren't comfortable holding the baby, who are nervous, awkward and unsure cause the baby to wiggle about and cry. They have no inhibitions. If they don't want to be held by someone, they are not concerned about hurting feelings because they are good about screaming when their needs are not being met! I have seen this countless times. And of course it may just be an 'off' day for the baby and crying is the pattern of the day... we'll never know for sure, because they can't sit up and say 'hey, that guy is bad and he's not holding me!' I think that as babies grow to toddlers and children the social rules of engagement come into play, as parents (who don't want to be embarrassed or raise unruly children) require children to be polite and trust. The inhibitions diminish and there's not as many viable options for screaming one's head off. I believe this socializing is essential and it is a process of development and learning to navigate the social world. Ideally there are adequate and excellent parents to guide the way.

Do We Understand Our Biological Selves?

The question of understanding our 'biological selves' is quite intriguing. What does it mean exactly, 'a biological self'? Physically: the cells, tissues, organs... Or, the intricate and energetic components to the body that enhance and manifest physical imbalance? At first it seems an easy question to answer. I feel I do understand myself, biologically. I know my anatomy, and to some degree I could explain cell components... (not very well, unfortunately, the parts are all so tiny...) However, the process of understanding how the biology of a system can create, destroy, manage, manifest, and heal a myriad of illnesses- is a mystery. But it is a mystery I am willing to explore. When certain physical maladies affect my body, I can almost always relate it to an emotional, situational, relational STRESS. (I put that in caps, because stress is an overwhelming, bullying component to life). But when I meditate and go into my body, my cells, my tissues and sit in it and see what is going on, I can begin to heal it. The process of healing can be difficult, but there's is peace for me in knowing I can simply go within, and see what I find- in the biological, cell level aspect. At least I have that, and know that.

Bio

Hello fellow AIMC students! This is my third (and final) science prerequisite, so I must familiarize myself with this blogging process again, as it has been over a year since my last Larry class. Please excuse if I stumble along at first... A little of me: it is also my third (and final) year of acupuncture school! It has been quite a studious adventure, I have loved it throughout and believe it is the wisest decision I have ever made. I have been pushed academically, challenged in ways I did not experience as an undergrad at Cal, and have learned so very much of myself in the process. My professional background is in Social Work. I practiced at a Family Resource Center in North Lake Tahoe for 2 years, specifically in family advocacy and program management. I considered a graduate degree in social work, went so far as to apply to MSW programs, and was wait listed for those that I wanted to attend. Therefore, had some time to contemplate my professional goals and what I was most interested in. Enter acupuncture: my mysterious companion through the years... I left every treatment wanting more, inquiring about TCM, and the academic process. So, finally I took initiative and here I am.... Happily...