MAN WITH 95% BURNS SAVED TWINS' SKIN.

A man who had suffered burns over 95% of his body, putting him on the verge of death, was saved by a skin transplant from his identical twin in a world-first operation, French doctors said on 23rd November, 2017 (Thursday). The 33-year-old man, identified only as Franck, received skin grafted from his brother Eric's skull, back and thighs. Receiving a transplant from a genetically identical twin eliminates the risk of seeing the recipient's body reject 'foreign' material from an unrelated donor. Usually in burn cases, the skin of a deceased donor is used, and the donor skin is typically rejected within weeks. That is usually enough time for new skin to start growing or to be harvested from elsewhere on the patient's body. 

Twin-on twin skin transplants have been done before, but this was the first to cover such a large surface area, said Maurice Mimoun, a surgeon at the Saint-Louis Hospital in Paris, where the procedure was done. The previous record for such transplants involved a case where about 68% of the victim's body was burned. Franck was admitted to hospital last year after being burned in a work accident, and the first graft from his twin was done a week later, followed by about a dozen procedures.

-Challapalli Srinivas Chakravarthy-

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A REASON TO AVOID EATING CAKE BATTER.

Spoiler alert: If you are already elbow-deep in holiday cake batter, you may just want to stop reading here. Tasting uncooked foods made with flour can make you dangerously ill, according to a study published on 23rd November, 2017 (Wednesday) in 'The New England Journal of Medicine'. The report confirms that a type of E coli bacteria previously discovered in wet environments like hamburger meat can also thrive in arid hosts. Because of concerns over raw eggs, precautions have long existed for licking batter-laced spoons and nibbling homemade cookie dough. But the new results expand both the array of raw goods to be concerned about - even homemade play-dough! - and the reasons to be vigilant. 

-Challapalli Srinivas Chakravarthy-

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THIS BREAD IS MADE OF CRICKETS.

A Finnish bakery and food service company launched on 23rd November, 2017 (Thursday) what it said was the world's first insect-based bread to be offered to consumers in stores. The bread, made from flour ground from dried crickets as well as wheat flour and seeds, contains more protein than normal wheat bread. Each loaf contains about seventy crickets and costs 3.99 euros (approximately Rs. 305), compared with 2-3 euros (Rs. 150-220) for a regular wheat loaf. "It offers consumers with a good protein source and also gives them an easy way to familiarise themselves with insect-based food", said Juhani Sibakov, Head of Innovation at Fazer Bakeries. The demand to find more food sources and a desire to treat animals more humanely have raised interest in using insects as a protein source in the West. In November 2017, Finland joined five other European countries - Britain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Austria and Denmark - in allowing insects to be raised and marketed for food use. Helsinki student Sara Koivisto said of the new bread, "I don't taste the difference...It tastes like bread".

-Challapalli Srinivas Chakravarthy-

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THREE COFFEES A DAY DO MORE GOOD THAN HARM, SAYS STUDY.

People who drink three to four cups of coffee a day are more likely to see health benefits than harm, experiencing lower risks of premature death and heart disease than those who abstain, scienists said on Wednesday. The research collated evidence from over 200 studies.

-Challapalli Srinivas Chakravarthy-

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HOW LIGHT POLLUTION IS KILLING THE NIGHT?

They were supposed to bring about an energy revolution - but the popularity of LED lights is driving an increase in light pollution worldwide, with dire consequences for human and animal health, researchers said on Wednesday. The study published in the journal 'science advances', is based on satellite data showing that the Earth's night is getting brighter, and artificially lit outdoor surfaces grew at a pace of 2.2 percent per year from 2012 to 2016. Experts say that's a problem because nighttime lights are known to disrupt our body clocks and raise the risks of cancer, diabetes and depression. As for animals, these lights can kill - whether by attracting insects or disorienting migrating birds or sea turtles. The issue isn't just the LED lights themselves, which are more efficient because they need far less electricity to provide the same amount of light, explained lead author Chris Kyba, a physicist at the German Research Centre for Geosciences. Rather, it's that people keep installing more and more lights, he told reporters on a conference call to discuss the research.

"And so all of those new uses of light offset, to some extent, the savings that you had". Experts call this the 'rebound effect', and it can be seen with fuel-efficient cars, too. People may buy a car that requires less fuel, then decide to drive it more often or move further from work, lengthening their commute. The study was based on the first-ever radiometer designed especially for night-lights, called the Visible/Infrared Imager Radiometer Suite (VIIRS). The VIIRS is mounted on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) satellite named Suomi NPP, which has been orbiting Earth since October 2011. Researchers only analysed night-time lights during October, to avoid any increase from lights during the Christmas season. "With few exceptions, growth in lighting occurred throughout South America, Africa and Asia", said the report.

Declines in lighting were rare, but were noticeable in war-torn places like Syria and Yemen. Some of the world's brightest areas, including Italy. Netherlands, Spain and the United States, were all relatively stable. But even though Milan, for example, made the switch to LED lights and saw a drop in radiance over the 2012-2016 period, there were increases elsewhere in Italy. "The fact that we didn't see the country get darker means that there were new lights in other places, or else brighter lights that were in some other cities installed  that make up for this difference", said Kyba. Excesses night-time light not only harms natural habitats and makes stargazing impossible, it also costs nearly seven billion dollars annually in 'negative impacts on wildlife, health, astronomy, and wasted energy", according to a 2010 study in the journal Ecological Economics. Experts say solutions include turning lights off when people leave an area, and choosing LED lights that are amber instead of blue or violet, since these tend to be the most harmful to animals and humans.

-Challapalli Srinivas Chakravarthy-

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HOMEO TREATMENT FOR HAMSTRING INJURY IN SPORTS.

A day watching a cricket match would involve the batsman scurrying to the other end with a sudden start, rapid acceleration of every movement of running and finally lunge forward to scrape his bat against the crease. Well, every such motion is enough to cause a hamstring injury. Hamstrings are thick, bulky muscles in the back of the upper leg which run the course from the buttocks or th hips where they are and along the leg into almost the back of the knee. These are attached to the bone with a thick, ropy structures called as the tendons. Any part of these muscles - right from the attachment of the tendon and along the course of the muscle - is prone to injury in athletes where there is involvement of running etc. When there is a sudden lunging, running or jumping, it puts a pressure on the tissues of the muscle causing a spasm or even worse a tear.

There is a spasm of the muscles in the back of the thigh which completely immobilises the sportsman then and there. If there is a sudden pop-like-sound during such activities, it could be due a tear in one of the fibres. Against that is at the site where the tendon is attached to the soft, bulky muscle. But in the athletically active, there could be a Grade III tear too. More often than not if the sportsman begins his job for the day without enough warm up or conditioning, or under circumstances like batting for a prolonged period of time especially in a humid environment that only saps away the electrolytes from the system; the hamstring muscles are more prone to injury. As such the diagnosis of such an injury does not involve any investigations because if the injury has happened during the course of play with a grab in the thigh completely immobilising him for a few minutes and there is a limp in the gait; it has to be construed as a hamstring injury. If there is a bluish swelling underneath the site it could be due to more than a spasm - it could be a muscle tear.

To start with, rest, ice, compression and elevation of the affected area go a long way in giving some relief to the person. But pressure with ice over the muscles for minutes after the injury would help him get back on the field, if its is only a spasm. If there is a tear rest of about four to six weeks period, away from action is required. During this phase as the tear heals, there could be a formation of a thick band of tissue at the site that may actually limit the movement in the long run and care with proper physiotherapy needs to be taken during the recovery. Homeopathic medicine has good remedies like Mag. Phos. which when given during an acute phase would relieve the spasm at the earliest and remedies like Arnica, Rhus tox, Cimcifuga, Caulophyllum, Ruta, Ac. Sulph., etc. can help the fibres heal at the earliest so that the sportsman is back on the field to the best of his ability only.

-Challapalli Srinivas Chakravarthy-   

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SLEEP YOUR WAY TO A HEALTHIER HEART.

Bragging to friends that you have the ability to sleep only for a few hours every night, and getting away with it is a stunt that many youngsters pull off. One does not realise, then, that a disturbed circadian rhythm could actually be hazardous and even mortally perilous. One cannot stress enough, the irrevocable role sleep plays in an individual's general health. Dr. Vikas Agrawal, ENT specialist and sleep apnea surgeon reiterates, "Worldwide research has suggested that insufficient sleep could lead to many lifestyle diseases like diabetes, obesity, coronary artery disease and heart attacks. Presence of sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. Also, bot short duration and long duration of sleep has been associated with a greater risk of dying from coronary heart disease".

Indians are more prone to heart attacks: Getting the right amount of sleep and reducing unhealthy lifestyle behaviours is extremely important for a healthy heart. Dr. Agarwal says, "Indians are genetically more prone to get heart disease, so maintaining a healthy lifestyle is more important for us". 

Lack of sleep leads to coronary artery disease: Good quality sleep decreases heart rate and blood pressure, thus decreasing work of heart. Dr. Santosh Kumar Dora, senior cardiologist says, "Lack of sleep keeps the heart rate and blood pressure elevated. Both are linked to increased incidence of heart disease. Lack of sleep increases insulin resistance and the risk of Type II diabetes mellitus and also increases C-reactive protein are associated with higher incidence of coronary artery disease". 

Pay attention to quality of sleep: The quality of your sleep directly affects the quality of your waking life, including your productivity, emotional balance, creativity, physical vitality, and even your weight. Dr. Nilesh Gautam, senior cardiologist says, "Sleep isn't merely a time when your body shuts off. While you rest, your brain stays busy, overseeing a wide variety of biological maintenance that keeps your body running in top condition, preparing you for the day ahead".

Duration of sleep is also important: Of course, the syaing "Early to bed and early to rise" still holds, but sleep specialists state that it is not so much the time, but the duration and regularity of sleep, that is important.

Melatonin is a hormone secreted approximately one hour prior to sleep, which helps us sleep better. If our sleep timings are irregular, the melatonin secretion is affected, which in turn disturbs our sleep.

Health problems due to incomplete sleep:

1. Coronary artery disease.
2. Hypertension.
3. Diabetes.
4. Stroke.
5. Poor memory and cognition.
6. Excessive day time sleepiness.
7. Excessive fatigue, lethargy and lack of motivation.
8. Obesity.
9. Depression.
10. Moodiness and Irritability.
11. Reduced creativity and problem-solving skills.
12. Reduced immunity, frequent colds and infection.
13. Concentration and memory problems.
14. Weight gain.
15. Impaired motor skills and increased risk of accidents.
16. Difficulty making decisions.  

According a to a recent study report and findings in Indian context, urban Indian spends more time at work and less time for sleep unlike a rural Indian. More work is typically related to sedentary activity, unhealthy dietary habit and more smoking or tobacco consumption. All these have resulted into more incidence of coronary artery disease and death in urban population compared to rural population as evidenced by multiple studies. 

Adults sleeping less than six hours had:

1. 48 percent increased risk of developing or dying from coronary heart disease.
2. 15 percent greater risk of developing or dying from stroke.

Adults sleeping more than none to eleven hours:

1. 38 percent increased risk of developing or dying from CHD.
2. 65 percent increased risk of stroke.

Sleep helps repair your body. Your body produces extra protein molecules while you are sleeping that helps strengthen your ability to fight infection and stay healthy. Sleep reduces stress. A good night's sleep can help lower blood pressure and elevated levels of stress hormones, which are a natural result of today's fast paced lifestyle. Proper sleep improves your memory. Sleep helps control body weight issues. It reduces the occurrence of mood disorders.

-Challapalli Srinivas Chakravarthy-

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LIFESTYLE HABITS TO REV UP YOUR LIBIDO.

Don't let your lifestyle choices affect your bedroom performance. Whether you did like to believe it or not, a number of factors can be blamed for a low libido. Here are three things that will give a much needed boost to your sex drive...

1. Watch what you eat: What you put on your plate can also have a lot of repercussions on your sex life. Studies say that following a healthy diet not only improves your overall performance in the bedroom. Those suffering from cardiovascular ailments, especially, are known to suffer from low libido. Obesity, hormonal imbalances and diabetes is also said to hamper your sex life.
2. Lose some weight: When you are physically fit, not only will you feel more encouraged to shed your inhibitions in front of your partner but also discover that your libido increases. Exercising is said to improve blood circulation and result in your body producing more endorphins - known to increase energy and feelings of happiness.
3. Lower your stress levels: While stress is inevitable in today's age, how you deal with it is completely up to you. No matter how stressed you are, learn how to de-stress yourself because left unchecked, stress can decimate your libido. Keep time aside for activities that make you happy and help you unwind. Once you learn to relax and deal with stress, your sex life will automatically improve.

-Challapalli Srinivas Chakravarthy-
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DON'T LET STRESS TAKE OVER YOUR LIFE. ACT NOW!

First things first: not all stress is bad for you. There are two main kinds of stress - acute stress and chronic stress. Acute stress is the reaction to an immediate threat, commonly known as the 'fight or flight' response. Some degree of acute stress is desirable as it primes your brain for performance and spontaneity, however, chronic stress which most of us might be facing day in and day out is dangerous. Chronic stress and cortisol (stress hormone) can damage the brain. It can trigger long-term changes in brain structure and function. Young people who are exposed to chronic stress early in life are prone to problems such as anxiety, mood disorders as well as learning difficulties.

Elevated levels of cortisol can generate over-production of myelin-producing cells (which control human impulses) and fewer neurons than normal. The hippocampus, the portion of the brain which regulates memory and emotions, shrinks under extended periods of acute stress. This results in an excess of myelin-and too much white matter-in some areas of the brain. The 'stress hormone' cortisol is believed to create a domino effect that hard-wires pathways between the hippocampus and amygdala, (which controls fear responses) in a way that create a constant state of fight-or-flight.

Weight gain, mood swings, poor sleep, short attention span, and memory issues are common signs of stress due to elevated cortisol. Regular physical Activity and mindful meditation are two effective ways to reduce stress.

-Challapalli Srinivas Chakravarthy-

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DON'T LET A MIGRAINE TAKE OVER YOUR LIFE.

Unless you suffer from a migraine, you will never really know how debilitating it can be. Migraines affect millions around the globe and can be triggered by the smallest (and strangest) of things. These include changes in the weather, food items, over-powering scents and several other things. A migraine attack is different for everyone, which is why treating it is never really easy. You need to figure out what triggers off your migraine so that you can deal with it effectively...

1. If smells are your biggest concern, make sure that you stay away from perfumes, room fresheners, scented candles, strong detergents, or anything that emits a strong odour. 
2. As strange as it may sound, certain foods can also cause bad migraine attacks. These include certain cheeses, nuts, citrus fruits, chocolate, pickled or marinated food, types of beans, raisins, foods that contain MSG, avocados, Caffeinated items and alcohol. The best thing, of course, is to steer clear of these foods.
3. Your monthly cycle can also be a cause for severe migraines. Usually taking place just a few days before the start of your period or during it, some women even get an attack when they ovulate. Your migraine medication will help ease the discomfort caused.
4. Stress is one of the most common reasons for migraines. This is because emotions such as uncertainty, concern, anxiety and heartache can discharge brain chemicals that are known to cause migraines.
5. An irregular sleep schedule can also cause migraine attacks. Hence, it is important to wake up and sleep at roughly the same time daily and ensure that you get the requisite seven to eight hours of sleep daily.

-Challapalli Srinivas Chakravarthy-

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YOUR DRINK GLASS MAY BE TOXIC.

Enamelled glass containers, including those for liquor, may contain potentially harmful levels of lead and cadmium, a study warned on 06th November, 2017 (Monday). Researchers at the University of Plymouth, UK tested 72 glass products, including beer and wine glasses. In some cases, the concentration of lead was more than 1,000 times higher than the limit.

-Challapalli Srinivas Chakravarthy-

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WHEN STRESSED, PARENTS FEED KIDS JUNK FOOD.

On days when parents feel stressed or depressed, kids are less likely to get homemade food for dinner, a US study suggests. Beyond just serving up more fast food and frozen dinners, parents are also more likely to pressure kids to clean their plates on days when they are not in a great mood. "One potential explanation for these findings is that parents who have a stressful day at work, school or home or who feel depressed throughout the day may be overwhelmed and not feel like making a family meal, and so they opt for pre-prepared foods and make less homemade foods", said lead study author Jerica Berge of the University of Minnesota Medical School in Minneapolis.
"In addition, if parents feel stressed or depressed, they may also pressure their children to eat more at the meal because they don't want them to waste food, or because they are worried their child is not getting enough food to eat", Berge said.
For the study researchers observed 150 children aged 5 to 7 years at home with their families and used several methods to assess how parents' moods influenced what foods went on the table.
Among other things, researchers did home visits to observe meal planning and preparation and examined data from food diaries, surveys and interviews.
-Challapalli Srinivas Chakravarthy- 
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