MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'ingredients'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 02:00:05 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5050585&cid=t_103440_87_f&fid=39261&url=http%3A%2F%2Fvactruth.com%2F2011%2F07%2F18%2Fwhat-is-it-you-dont-get-about-vaccines%2F With more parents questioning vaccines, we are starting to see Mainstream Media 'turning up the heat' on the rhetoric. Monday, July 18, 2011, the Los Angeles Times ran the following op-ed article by David Ropeik: http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/commentary/la-oe-ropeik-vaccines-20110718,0,4240440.story  Public health: Not vaccinated? Not acceptable Wow! I thought. Is that draconian, fascist, or even Hitlerian-like in principle? So, I considered what a one-sentence rebuttal could be to such apparent outrageousness on the part of someone who, perhaps, does not know the ‘toxic ingredients’ in vaccines nor has studied the thousands upon thousands of VAERS reports at CDC on adverse vaccine reactions. This is what I finally came up with: No vaccine safety studies; No vaccinat... vactruth.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5050585 Mon, 18 Jul 2011 19:40:47 +0100 5050585 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5008662&cid=t_103440_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fjg8EpAu81jA%2F And so, another working week will soon draw to a close. As always, this is the signal to daydream about weekend plans. Our agenda calls for a dip in the pool, a little yardwork, hanging with assorted short people and catching up on some interesting R&D. What about you? Is a day at the beach in order? Or a drive in the country? Maybe catching up on some sleep or thinking big thoughts? Whatever you do, have a good time and be safe. Meanwhile, here are some tidbits. See you soon… Bayer Loses European Patent For Yasmin (Reuters) PETA Proposes Procter & Gamble Stop Animal Testing (Dayton Business Journal) Republicans Complain FDA Review Procedures Slow Innovation (Bloomberg News) Bydureon Diabetes Med Passed The Test In Heart Trial (Reuters) FDA Bans Imports From Dr. Reddy&#8217... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5008662 Fri, 08 Jul 2011 12:04:58 +0100 5008662 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4953368&cid=t_103440_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FmZtV5T1ccqk%2F Beset by an inability to thoroughly monitor pharmaceutical ingredients and production around the world, the FDA has declared a new ‘global strategy’ to cope with the fast-paced industry changes that are straining its resources. And in issuing a 37-page report on the topic, the agency says the step reflects a lack of “resources to adequately keep pace with the pressures of globalization.” To illustrate the point, the FDA says that imports of pharmaceutical products have grown rapidly, at approximately 13 percent annually over the past seven years and accounted for more than 350,000 import lines in 2009. This volume accounted for approximately 30 percent by value of pharma products used annually. And the rise in imports has contributed to a growing trade deficit in ph... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4953368 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 14:25:44 +0100 4953368 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4789256&cid=t_103440_87_f&fid=39261&url=http%3A%2F%2Fvactruth.com%2F2011%2F05%2F04%2Fwhat-is-the-pseudo-science-in-vaccines%2F A one-word answer is: Ingredients, otherwise known as adjuvants, excipients and growth mediums. The science spun around them is so outrageously counter to human biochemistry, one has to wonder what’s wrong with oversight agencies such as U.S. CDC, FDA, Congress, plus medical doctors, nurses, and gung-ho health advocates who spout vaccines and vaccinations are ‘safe’.   Adjuvants Adjuvants are those ‘ingredients’ in vaccines that supposedly enhance immune response but, in reality, can harm brain cells, particularly in children, which often is the cause of vaccine-induced encephalitis, but attributed to parents’ abuse known as Shaken Baby Syndrome. Adjuvants can include aluminum in at least four different formulations, squalene (shark oil), peanut oil (often not label-liste... vactruth.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4789256 Wed, 04 May 2011 16:33:22 +0100 4789256 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4753970&cid=t_103440_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FN7yYPeyVrt4%2F During a lengthy inspection last fall of a supplier of active pharmaceutical ingredients, the FDA found something curious. The Baltimore facility run by ChemPacific, which also has operations in China, was failing to complete batch records for various lots of Norepinephrine Bitartrate. Entries were incomplete or missing, records were backdated and the in-house quality unit failed to detect the problems. In other words, ChemPacific was cited for playing fast and loose with its paperwork. In one specific example, the FDA noted that Chinese characters signifying a “need to change” were written on different batch records. And someone at the supplier told FDA investigators that the characters indicated these marked pages were to be replaced with a corrected batch record page. Interestingly... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4753970 Tue, 26 Apr 2011 15:00:24 +0100 4753970 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4677134&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F514%2Fthe-dirt-on-common-cosmetic-ingredients%2F Have you given up trying to figure out what causes your skin allergies? Unbeknownst to many consumers, we could be spending good money on products that we think are good for our skin but are actually causing allergic reactions, dermatitis, premature aging, and worse.  The following are the cosmetic industry’s dirtiest ingredients, rated according to Environmental Working Group’s cosmetics database Skin Deep, which references the American Cancer Society and other reliable organizations.  Skin Deep rates specific ingredients on a hazard scale from 0 to 10, the latter being the most harmful. Petrochemicals Petroleum jelly, isopropyl alcohol, butyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol, ethanol Found in skin astringents, perfumes Petrolatum (petroleum jelly) rates a low 2 on Skin Deep’s hazard scal... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4677134 Mon, 04 Apr 2011 16:16:43 +0100 4677134 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4653606&cid=t_103440_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FHbgOGFlE5sE%2F The ongoing shortage of prescription medicines continues to wreak havoc in the form of rising medication errors and are costing US hospitals an extra $200 million by forcing them to purchase more expensive generics or other therapeutic substitutes, according to a survey by the Premier alliance of hospitals and healthcare provideres. Why is this happening? At least 42 percent of sterile injectable drug shortages last year were due to product quality problems, such as particulates, microbial contamination, newly identified impurities and stability changes. Another 9 percent were due to problems with raw materials and 5 percent were attributed to the shutdown of a manufacturing site. Keep in mind, Premier notes, that foreign markets are the source for up to 80 percent of the raw materials req... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4653606 Tue, 29 Mar 2011 11:52:12 +0100 4653606 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4643014&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F506%2Ftrue-skincare-and-products-with-idebenone%2F If you do a search for true skincare products, one of the first things you will see is information about a compound called idebenone.  What is it?  That’s what this post is all about. Idebenone is described in most advertisements as a synthetic analog of the antioxidant coenzyme Q10 or COQ10 for short.  I am a big proponent of all naturally occurring forms of COQ10.  I have seen what the antioxidant can do. If you are over the age of 20 and you are not taking the dietary supplement on a daily basis, you should be.  It could help you live a longer healthier life.  It could reduce your risk of heart disease and help prevent gum disease.  It can also help protect your skin from damaging UV radiation. For many years, we have been told by marketers and major healthcare organizations th... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4643014 Mon, 28 Mar 2011 18:12:17 +0100 4643014 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4522183&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2011%2F02%2F25%2F3-reasons-why-its-ok-to-have-toxins-in-cosmetics%2F Lin longs to learn about Ammonium Hydroxide… I’ve noticed it in several skincare products (like Neostrata AHA gel) and I’m worried because I read on a medical website that Ammonium hydroxide is a toxin and is found in many industrial products and cleaners such as flooring strippers, brick cleaners, and cements. And worst of all they warn you not to get it on your skin or in your eyes. Why is this toxic chemical in cosmetics? The Right Brain lends a hand: Thanks, Lin. Consumers should be asking questions like this to find out if their cosmetics are safe. But believe it or not, a lot of cosmetic (and food products!) contain ingredients that can be harmful at high concentrations. It’s actually perfectly safe to use ingredients like this as long as they’re formula... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4522183 Fri, 25 Feb 2011 06:01:40 +0100 4522183 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4507604&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F497%2Fhomemade-exfoliator-for-dry-and-oily-skin%2F To keep you skin healthy and young you need to regularly moisturize your skin, tone your skin, cleanse your skin and exfoliate it. While moisturization helps in keeping the moisture to your skin, toning helps in keeping the pores of the skin clean, thus maintaining the health of the skin, exfoliation helps in the removal of the dead cells from the skin, thus giving the skin a brand new look. Exfoliation treats the blemished skin, dark marks, clogged pores, hyper pigmentation and dry skin. A few home made exfoliators that give a new lease of life to your skin A natural and home made exfoliator is the ones that work best and without any side effects in comparison to the chemically prepared exfoliating products. Exfoliator is better avoided by the people who have acne prone skin as it may inc... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4507604 Tue, 22 Feb 2011 04:16:47 +0100 4507604 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4338265&cid=t_103440_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F4f2wrjzvvuk%2F In recent months, the FDA has come under still greater pressure to monitor foreign plants. The US General Accountability Office has issued a scathing report (see this), House Republicans have chastised the agency for failing to fully probe the Heparin scandal (read here) and one Congressional committee is particularly interested in oversight failures in Puerto Rico (look here). So how does the FDA respond? The agency recently issued warning letters to four different manufacturers of active pharmaceutical ingredients and slammed them for a host of significant deviations from Current Good Manufacturing Practice. These included failures to establish a stability program to monitor the APIs; maintain adequate laboratory controls and maintain adequate records; or demonstrate that analytical test... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4338265 Wed, 12 Jan 2011 14:46:55 +0100 4338265 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4305122&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F345%2Fcellist-katinka-kleijn-spreads-the-word-about-toxic-skincare%2F Are there toxic compounds in your facial moisturizer?   Well-known cellist Katinka Kleijn just found out that the products she typically utilized before every single performance were harmful and has joined forces with other people in attempting to expand awareness of natural skin care products. The EWG has been attempting to expand awareness for many years.  I myself have been attempting to let individuals know by way of my blog and articles published on eZinearticles.com   It is great to see that other people are working to help as well. Although there are quite a few worries, the primary one is cancer.  Many of the chemical compounds accepted for use in cosmetics are acknowledged or suspected carcinogens.  Plant derived substances like wakame kelp are safe and effective. Researchers... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4305122 Sat, 01 Jan 2011 23:51:13 +0100 4305122 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4272659&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F332%2Fhoney-skin-and-hair-care-gold%2F Honey has for centuries been the workhorse of natural beauty and health.  Ancient Egyptians used it for face and body and even for health, including cataracts, cuts, and burns.  The Greeks, most notably Hippocrates, used honey for skin disorders and ulcers. In our current fascination with the new and the manufactured, many of us have forgotten the wonders of nature.  Honey should be a staple in anyone’s beauty cabinet. Honey contains small amounts of niacin, riboflavin (aids energy production and warding off of certain diseases), pantothenic acid, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese (ensures healthy bones), phosphorus, potassium, zinc (aids immune and digestive systems), and other vitamins and minerals that do a world of good wherever it’s applied.  It’s the only known fo... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4272659 Sat, 18 Dec 2010 22:53:40 +0100 4272659 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4266300&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F330%2Fnatural-skin-care-ingredients-for-an-anti-aging-facial%2F An anti aging facial treatment may perhaps be utilized on an infrequent or a frequent basis, it all depends on the formulation of the product.   Facial treatments at the spa are high-priced, but everyone likes to indulge on occasion.   But it is the product you use on a daily basis that tends to make the largest difference. What makes the most difference is selecting a natural skin care product that can generate healthful skin holistically instead of deciding on purely superficial solutions. It is hard to believe that a lot of the most popular elements provide no real benefit.   They are preferred because of misinformation spun by the cosmetic industry. For instance, collagen does nothing when applied to your skin.  The processes used to soften it destroy its bioactivity.  The skin�... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4266300 Wed, 15 Dec 2010 13:06:54 +0100 4266300 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4251275&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F327%2Fthe-science-of-keeping-skin-young-and-wrinkle-free%2F Skin creases are not an inevitable component of the aging process, if you look to the most current studies.  Sun injury, a main cause of wrinkling, can be healed naturally.  Right here’s how the complete process works. When UV rays from the sun hit your skin, the free radical molecules commonly existing in and close to the tissues become frenzied.  The activity of the chemicals can damage cellular structures and also the skin’s DNA strands. When we are young, de-oxidizing chemicals like SOD, coenzyme Q10 and glutathione are able to neutralize the free radicals earlier than they can do any injury.  As we get older, there are a lot more free radicals in our pores and skin and less of the neutralizing anti-oxidants.  This, according to dermatologists, is the major trigger of wrinklin... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4251275 Sat, 11 Dec 2010 23:16:32 +0100 4251275 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4214516&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F321%2Fapple-cider-vinegar-for-troubled-skin%2F Few people realize as they spend hundreds of dollars a month on skincare that the perfect regimen might be just under their noses—literally.  Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a household cooking item and cleaning agent, and also a little known acne home remedy. ACV Benefits to Acne-Prone Skin Acne is often a result of accumulated toxins in one’s body, a result of an unhealthy diet and lifestyle.  Used topically, ACV can detoxify skin over time by removing deep-seated bacteria from skin and regulating the skin’s pH, which makes it less likely to house bacteria.  ACV is also rich in alph-hydroxy acids; these dissolve fatty deposits in the skin’s surface as well as soften scaly conditions caused by many store-bought acne remedies.  Unlike other “home remedies” like benzoyl peroxid... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4214516 Tue, 30 Nov 2010 17:53:48 +0100 4214516 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4179534&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F317%2Floreal-skincare-and-hair-collection-review%2F L’Oreal recently signed on a new celebrity to promote their hair and skincare collection.  The celebrity was quoted as saying she was “honored to represent a brand that is rich in history, synonymous with beauty and reflective of the modern woman”. There is no doubt that the company is rich, with earnings of over 17 billion euro in 2009.  The history is relatively long.  In 1907, they began providing hair dyes, which were promoted as inoffensive or “safe”. The safety of the original ingredients is unknown, but the ingredients the company includes in their hair dyes today are far from safe.  According to Skin Deep, they are highly hazardous. Skin Deep is an online database created by the Environmental Working Group.  You can visit the site.  Type in a product name and if it ... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4179534 Thu, 18 Nov 2010 16:49:00 +0100 4179534 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4168072&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F11%2F15%2Fshould-you-worry-about-pee-in-your-makeup%2F Meagan Muses: I love your site– it makes me feel smarter all the time. I’ve got a question about diazolidinyl urea. I see it on labels for lotions and cleansers all the time. Doesn’t urea come from urine? That seems disgusting to me. What’s the story? The Right Kidney, uh, Right Brain, Replies: You’re sort of right Meagan, but not really. What is urea Let’s start by explaining that “diazolidinyl urea” is a preservative and it’s used in many cosmetics to keep microscopic bugs from spoiling the products you bought with your hard earned money. It so happens that urea is one of the compounds used to make this ingredient. In addition, urea is also used in some creams and lotions as a moisturizer. So urea is used in cosmetics, but does urea... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4168072 Mon, 15 Nov 2010 06:01:32 +0100 4168072 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4159528&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F313%2Fskin-care-facts-the-experts-dont-want-you-to-learn%2F Skincare experts ideas range greatly on topics like anti aging skin care, zits, eczema and sun exposure.  Right here is the short version of my belief on those topics. Sun exposure is healthful, as long as it is not excessive.   Sun burning is bad for the skin’s well being in many ways.  Spending too much time indoors is probably a whole lot worse for your well being than being active. Of course, that does depend on exactly where you dwell and the volume of air pollution in your environment.  If you stay in a big city, try to get away and get some refreshing air just about every few days or so.  It can do you a world of good. Nourishing lotions and good dietary supplements, as well as a nutritious diet, can help shield you from the injury that the sun could do to your skin.  If so... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4159528 Fri, 12 Nov 2010 16:12:00 +0100 4159528 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4134290&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F310%2Ftop-3-skincare-botanicals-and-where-to-get-them%2F Here’s a look at some of the skincare botanicals and what they are good for.  Plants have always provided the nutrients people need to stay healthy.  Many of those nutrients are particularly important for protecting and/or improving the skin’s health and beauty. The Nutrient Vitamin E Vitamin E is an essential antioxidant that prevents free radical damage, one of the causes of cellular aging.  It is one of the nutrients often missing in the diets of acne sufferers.  Topical applications are beneficial for reducing age spots and healing other blemishes.  Regular use of creams containing it may also prevent age spots from forming. The Sources Grape seed oil, wakame kelp and Shea butter are all botanical sources of vitamin E.  Grape seed oil has proven to be particularly beneficial ... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4134290 Thu, 04 Nov 2010 15:23:58 +0100 4134290 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4119756&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F303%2Fastonishing-skincare-products-actually-reverse-sun-damaged-and-wrinkled-skin%2F Scientists of late announced an astonishing skincare treatment that has the ability to restore sun damage and wrinkles.   The essential component is the well-known antioxidant CoenzymeQ10. CoQ10 is naturally present in just about all living cells.   Without it, cells would deteriorate and die quickly from oxidative stress. The skin’s COQ10 acts to negate free radicals created during exposure to UV rays from the sun.   Researchers found that the skin’s coenzyme Q10 levels are quickly depleted when exposed to direct UV light. They asked themselves:   What would happen if the Coenzyme Q10 could be replenished and the skin never ran out? Months of testing later, they were sincerely amazed by what they discovered.   Natural skincare products containing the microscopic ... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4119756 Tue, 26 Oct 2010 14:09:27 +0100 4119756 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4086531&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F299%2Ffeed-your-skins-cravings%2F Chances are that a good deal of your beauty budget is spent on products that are meant for the largest organ in your body, your skin. With all of the face creams, lotions, serums, and treatments on the market today, it’s easy to get caught up in the promises of each product. And when no matter what you wear your skin is always showing, anything that improves it seems like a worthy investment. But aside from what the label says, the best thing you can do for your skin is feed it from the inside out. Here are just a few nutrients your skin might be craving. Vitamin C This vitamin helps the skin is two ways, as an antioxidant and in collagen production. As an antioxidant it acts as a natural protector against free radicals that come from pollutants in the environment, smoking, or sun da... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4086531 Wed, 20 Oct 2010 18:39:40 +0100 4086531 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4077623&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F294%2Fmeaningful-beauty-cindy-crawford-skin-care-review%2F Meaningful skincare products are endorsed by Cindy Crawford, a former US supermodel who is getting a little older. The complete line includes cleansers, creams and masks.  Finding out about the ingredients has been difficult. Many cosmetic companies use advertising and celebrity endorsements to sell their products.  They might talk about the science behind the ingredients or the results we can expect to see after using them.  But they don’t want to give us a detailed list of ingredients until we physically pick up the product. Some companies are becoming less secretive about their products.  They realize that more and more consumers are concerned about safety.  It’s not just the people with allergies or sensitivities that worry these days. Scientists from around the world have exp... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4077623 Sat, 16 Oct 2010 21:46:49 +0100 4077623 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4061088&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F290%2Feliminate-fine-lines-and-wrinkles-with-natural-skin-creams%2F Researchers and consumers alike understand what the root causes of skin wrinkles are, so there should be a basic solution on the market that will rejuvenate our skin to the firm, supple form it once had. It doesn’t make sense that we are able to walk on the moon and catalogue the entire human genome, but cannot find an answer to fine lines and wrinkles beyond antioxidants. Something is very wrong with this picture, don’t you think? Antioxidants offered in all natural skin care creams are the key to repairing the wrinkles and fine lines caused by harmful free radical activity, and there are a significant number of anti-wrinkle skin creams that contain natural compounds for this exact reason. Antioxidants reduce the risk of damage free radicals can cause to your chemic... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4061088 Tue, 12 Oct 2010 13:43:18 +0100 4061088 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4040796&cid=t_103440_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FSCuTbxtXbQE%2F Rise and shine, another day has arrived. And we are happy to say that so have we. After an unexpected two-day disappearance due to technical problems, we have returned as fresh as ever. So while we brew the mandatory cup of stimulation in the official Pharmalot cafeteria, please join us as we peruse the news of the world. Have a great day, everyone, and stay in touch… Will Bristol-Myers Buy Actelion? (Reuters) Health Care Fraud In Europe Is Rising (PharmaTimes) FDA To Push For More Investment In Science (Reuters) China’s API Suppliers May Have A Bright Future (OutsourcingPharma) Controversy Erupts Over Gout Drug Price Hike (MedPage Today) Vical Signs Deal To Make HIV Vaccine (Associated Press) Novo Nordisk Invests $73M Into US Plant Expansion (InPharma-Technologist) UK’s... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4040796 Thu, 07 Oct 2010 11:51:23 +0100 4040796 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4040804&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F284%2Finnovative-skincare-may-not-be-what-it-seems%2F Many so called “Innovative” skincare products contain ingredients that the Environmental Working Group suggests we should avoid. The EWG provides information to help consumers protect the health of their skin and the environment.  They would love to see major changes in the cosmetic industry, but change is slow to come. One of the compounds that should be avoided according to the EWG is glycolic acid, because it is a strong irritant.  Like ethylene glycol and some other chemicals, it converts easily into oxalic acid, which is a known toxin, unsafe for consumption. The reason glycolic acid is included in many brands of anti-aging serums has to do with its ability to weaken the binding lipids responsible for holding the skin’s cells together. The skin’s cells naturally slough off t... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4040804 Thu, 07 Oct 2010 01:27:15 +0100 4040804 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4013332&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F09%2F28%2Fdo-the-alcohols-in-neutrogena-triple-moisture-damage-my-hair-2%2F Sammy complains...Do the alcohols in Neutrogena Triple Moisture Deep Recovery hair mask damage hair or make it drier and more brittle?? The Right Brain Explains: Sammy, the types of alcohols used in hair conditioners are NOT the kind that dry your hair. Ethanol (the kind of alcohol in beer, wine, and cocktails) is a short carbon chain alcohol (only 2 carbon atoms) that is a good solvent and can remove the natural oils from your hair. Some hairsprays use this kind of alcohol (as a solvent for styling resins). Conditioners use cetyl or stearyl alcohols which are long carbon chain “fatty” alcohols (16 or 18 carbon atoms). These fatty alcohols are not drying at all, in fact, they’re good moisturizers for hair and skin. That’s enough science for now. I need a drink! Are... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4013332 Tue, 28 Sep 2010 10:54:40 +0100 4013332 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4003438&cid=t_103440_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FVIyzP8yQEzA%2F Welcome back, everyone. We hope your weekend was restful and rejuvenating. Now, of course, the routine has returned. Meetings and deadlines, as usual, beckon. What better way to prepare than with a cup of stimulation? So please join us as we indulge. Meanwhile, here are a few items to help you get started. Hope your day goes well and stay in touch… AstraZeneca Prostate Cancer Drug Fails Phase III (TheStreet) Pfizer Plans More Partnerships In Asia (OutsourcingPharma) Sanofi Keeps Genzyme Bid Steady, For Now (Reuters) Merck To Hire 300 At No. Carolina Vaccine Plant (The Herald Sun) Wyeth’s Genetically Modified Baby Formula Causes Protest (Sydney Morning Herald) European Rx Sales To Slow Due To Cost-Cutting (PharmaTimes) Actelion Drug For Brain Hemorrhage Fails In Study (Bloomberg... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4003438 Mon, 27 Sep 2010 11:51:00 +0100 4003438 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3999312&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F279%2Fhow-to-find-an-anti-wrinkle-cream-that-is-worth-your-money%2F There is barely an anti wrinkle cream on the market that is worth wasting your time and money on, and this is because the cosmetic companies simply aren’t trying to produce effective formulas. I know that may sound like a bold charge, but it is certainly not made without solid evidence.  All anyone has to do is look at the ingredients that are in the average anti aging cosmetic to see that I am correct. Most formulas that are designed to reduce lines and skin sagging can only produce results that last for a few hours at a time.  This is because these products feature ingredients that bind water to the skin to help make it appear fuller, constrict the underlying tissue to make the skin pull taut, or “relax” the facial muscles to the point where they sag and tug at the skin. The last... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3999312 Thu, 23 Sep 2010 18:12:39 +0100 3999312 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3987058&cid=t_103440_87_f&fid=39261&url=http%3A%2F%2Fvactruth.com%2F2010%2F09%2F20%2Faborted-human-fetal-cells-in-vaccines%2F Catherine J. Frompovich Vactruth.com 09/20/2010 Doctor Nancy Snyderman, a very attractive, gregarious and outgoing physician, has real TV presence in more ways than one. Friday, September 17, 2010 Dr. Snyderman appeared on the MSNBC Today Show and promoted vaccines in a segment titled Vaccines 101 in a manner to which I personally took umbrage, especially when she said there was a small amount of medicine in the shot and the “rest is water or salt water.” Hel-l-l-o-o-o! To hear Doctor Snyderman’s remarks that made me wonder, please access this link http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/36691058/vp/39211550#39211550 . It’s a little over six minutes of what I call “medical spin” that sounds valid but, inadvertently, I think misleads because of non-disclosure. Why? Well, my answer is this. ... vactruth.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3987058 Mon, 20 Sep 2010 11:58:14 +0100 3987058 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3976572&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F09%2F17%2Fwhat-is-dea-and-where-did-it-go-2%2F Corinne carefully comments…What exactly is DEA (diethanolamine)? I remember hearing some really bad things about it a couple of years ago, and now I hear almost nothing. I also seem to not find it in the ingredient lists for my shampoos, hand soaps and body washes as much anymore. What happened to it and what’s replaced it in those formulas? The Right Brain Responds Regulatorily: Diethanolamine (DEA for short) is a chemical that’s part of a type of foam boosting ingredient and thickener (We fondly recall Sarah Bellum’s college parties where we were swept away in a tsunami of DEA-drenched foam. But we digress…) DEA is commonly found in many shampoos, bodywashes and shower gels – or at least it WAS commonly found until a few years ago. This was one of th... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3976572 Fri, 17 Sep 2010 06:01:54 +0100 3976572 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3946701&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F270%2Fnatural-skin-care-ingredients-to-look-for%2F The top wrinkle product for effectively restoring firmness and elasticity to the skin is one that incorporates the correct mix of natural skin care substances. Regrettably, a significant number of the formulas on the market are developed with mostly synthetic ingredients, which provide very little benefit at all.   Many of the ingredients that go into making such products are actually potentially harmful. Be wary when choosing your skincare creams, because far too many companies include chemicals in their products proved to be cancer causing or toxic to human beings.   You should study the ingredients in any formula before actually putting it on your skin. If a skin cream you are considering purchasing turns out to contain anything unnatural in it, then it is... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3946701 Thu, 09 Sep 2010 01:34:52 +0100 3946701 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3929467&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F266%2Fhas-your-home-aging-skin-treatment-been-disappointing%2F Have you found yourself getting frustrated over the lack of improvement you have seen from the aging skin treatment you’ve been using? This is not a unique experience I can assure you, because literally millions of people feel exactly the same way you do.  The problem lies in the fact that the cosmetic companies aren’t giving their customers the effective, high quality ingredients they need. Most of the wrinkle reducing formulas on the market are primarily synthetic, save for the errant natural ingredient appearing here and there.  These are the products that are typically built around the inclusion of livestock derived collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid. To many people these three compounds represent the backbone of any effective wrinkle reducing skin care formula, but the truth... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3929467 Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:12:33 +0100 3929467 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3896118&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F255%2Fwass-your-wrinkle-cream-highly-rated-in-clinical-trials%2F Media coverage and production of anti wrinkle cream ratings in order to help people choose which product is best are in many cases leading the public astray. Oftentimes there is some sort of incentive mired in why a few specific products are chosen for these infamous “top ten lists”, and it more often than not has to do with either money or advertising dollars.  These products are not often selected because of their safety or effectiveness. Take the instant wrinkle removers that could cause you to lose part or total control over the muscles in your face as a perfect example.  The skin care products don’t help with the loss of collagen, elastin, or hyaluronic acid due to enzyme processes , and they don’t do a thing to boost tissue growth. Is it really worth ... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3896118 Mon, 23 Aug 2010 13:33:36 +0100 3896118 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3889316&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F251%2Feye-wrinkle-cream-reviews-are-filled-with-hype%2F Eye wrinkle cream reviews generally don’t give you enough information about what is necessary for truly repairing the issues surrounding the formation of lines, skin slackening, bags, and dark circles. What you get is mostly a sales pitch, when what you need is pertinent information about the ingredients, how they work, and any possible side effects these ingredients could have.  Let me give you an example. One of the latest fads when it comes to “repairing” lines and wrinkles around the eyes is compounds that temporarily paralyze the muscles to lessen the affects of making facial expressions. This does nothing to actually reverse what is causing the lines around your eyes to form.  What you are not told is that long term use of formulas designed to cause temporary muscle paralysis... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3889316 Fri, 20 Aug 2010 15:46:15 +0100 3889316 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3813215&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F248%2Fanti-aging-herbs-and-antioxidant-skin-care%2F If you want to achieve your goal of having firmer, younger looking skin, then you are going to have to take advantage of the amazing benefits of anti aging herbs and botanicals. You will not get the results you are after by applying products to your skin that are loaded down with synthetic compounds, as these substances don’t provide you with what it is you need.  Chemically developed ingredients can also be harmful to your health. You want all natural products for treating your skin, because they will not contain the toxins and carcinogens that most over the counter skin care products are developed with. Formulas are developed using healthy compounds like Jojoba, Maracuja passion fruit extract, Babassu wax, and other natural compounds supply the abundance of antioxidants necessary for ... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3813215 Mon, 02 Aug 2010 13:30:52 +0100 3813215 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3807530&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F244%2Flooking-at-the-latest-anti-aging-research-for-skin-care%2F Anti aging research has proven that what your skin needs is all natural compounds for maintaining increased firmness and elasticity.  This is because these substances provide your skin with antioxidants, which are necessary for the repair of free radical damage. Clinical studies have proven that certain natural compounds can do much more than previously thought, so let’s look at what certain ingredients can do to help you look younger. There are three major causes behind why lines and wrinkles develop in the skin.  Free radicals stealing the electrons from chemical structures in the skin, and throughout the body are one of the major reasons why wrinkles develop. The steady decomposition of your collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid caused by enzyme activity, and a gradual decline in t... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3807530 Fri, 30 Jul 2010 14:22:56 +0100 3807530 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3798842&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F239%2Froc-wrinkle-cream-review%2F Roc wrinkle cream is a French anti aging skin care product featuring the highly touted ingredient Retinol, which is one of the animal forms of vitamin A. Retinol’s function in anti aging skin care products is to increase collagen, and to stimulate skin cell renewal.  These actions will help you somewhat in your quest for younger looking skin, but there are forces at work that this substance simply doesn’t address. Wrinkles and sagging skin are produced by the declining production rate of collagen and elastin, the escalating loss of collagen and elastin tissue as well as your hyaluronic acid polymer due to the activity of harmful enzymes, and damage to the chemical structures in your skin committed by free radicals. It is going to take a lot more than just Retinol to address these issu... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3798842 Wed, 28 Jul 2010 15:17:04 +0100 3798842 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3780580&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F231%2Fantioxidants-nutritional-supplements-facial-wrinkles%2F Some fine lines on the face may be unavoidable if we live long enough.   But, the visible signs of age can be minimized in the same way that aging inside of the body can be kept to a minimum.   Good nutrition is the key. You do not need large amounts of vitamins.  You just need a balanced diet and good anti aging natural supplements to help you along.   It’s very difficult , if not impossible, to get every nutrient that you require every day from the foods that you eat.  Studies (conducted in the US and Canada) have proven that vegetables contain less nutrients than they had in the past, due mainly to soil depletion. Some of the most helpful antioxidants cannot be found in common every day foods.  For example, curcumin is one of the most potent antioxidants and na... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3780580 Fri, 23 Jul 2010 03:31:47 +0100 3780580 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3767337&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F227%2Fhow-to-choose-safe-natural-skin-care-products%2F Choosing safe and natural skin care products can be very hard.   It isn’t that manufacturers don’t “claim” to provide them.  It’s just that their claims are not always completely honest. Safety is actually the big issue here.  If you are like most people, you would like naturally occurring ingredients, because you think they are safer than artificial ingredients. In many cases, you are right.   But, there are a few exceptions. Lead, mercury, cadmium and other heavy metals are found in nature.   They are probably not on the list of ingredients in your favourite cosmetics, they can be there as contaminants in natural plant extracts. Numerous contaminants are present in tap water, which is why water must be purified before it is used in skin care products. P... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3767337 Mon, 19 Jul 2010 10:43:12 +0100 3767337 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3758123&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F221%2Fthe-best-anti-aging-products-contain-coenzymeq10%2F The best anti aging products contain an ingredient that surprises many people.  It’s called coenzyme Q10. It surprises people, because they have been taking it as a supplement for heart health.  Who knew it was good for your skin, too? To be honest, the form included in lotions and creams is not the same as what we take orally. The particles must be reduced in size in order to penetrate the skin’s surface. But, other than that, it is the same antioxidant that helps keep the heart and muscles healthy. What does coenzyme Q10 do for the skin’s appearance? It is being recommended for everyone in order to help prevent wrinkles and other signs of age. It is recommended for people with sun damage, because it has been shown to reverse sun damage and wrinkling. Why does it work? COQ10 has u... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3758123 Thu, 15 Jul 2010 13:32:45 +0100 3758123 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3750143&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F07%2F14%2Fis-praimordial-stellar-serum-really-made-with-martian-minerals%2F Aussie Momma’s awesome question…Prai’s new Mordial Stellar serum is a new product that is getting raves on the beauty boards. Apparently it has an ingredient that is found on Mars. I think it is all marketing hype. What do you think? The Left Brain’s awe-struck response: This has to be one of the more bizarre claims claims I’ve come across. Here’s exactly what their website says: PRAImordial Stellar Serum helps reverse this process by counteracting the loss of collagen as we age.  Its luscious formula incorporates a customized blend of ingredients including Iron Rose Crystal derived from Hematite discovered on Mars, D-Galacturonic Acid, a powerful peptide/protein complex, and thirst – quenching  hydrators, all working together to support, maximi... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3750143 Wed, 14 Jul 2010 06:01:45 +0100 3750143 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3747007&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F217%2Fdiscover-a-natural-skin-care-product-with-functional-keratin%2F I thought you might be interested in a natural skin care product with anti-aging activity.  One of the most recent discoveries is that a protein complex called Functional Keratin will provide many anti-aging benefits. In some circles, it is being hailed as something of an anti-aging miracle.  Here’s what it can do. First of all, it is the same as the protein that makes up the majority of the cells in the skin’s outer layers.  Inactive or dysfunctional keratin has been included in moisturizers for many years. The benefits were minimal, because the skin’s cells could not pick it up and use it.  The harsh chemicals and high heat used to soften it made it unusable. The same is true of the collagen and elastin proteins found in anti-aging products.  The skin’s cells cannot use them... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3747007 Mon, 12 Jul 2010 11:27:45 +0100 3747007 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3740849&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F214%2Fquick-shopping-tips-to-choosing-the-best-anti-aging-creams%2F Here’s a quick shopping guide that will help you find the best anti aging creams.  Scientists have evaluated many of the products on the market.  Some of them work as described.  Others are mostly ineffective.  It all depends on the formula. A formula from New Zealand called Functional Keratin has been shown to increase the skin’s firmness and elasticity by over 40% after 18 days of use. Of course the volunteers in the study had some serious sagging.  But, what works well for people with the worst problems will work well for those of us that only have a few. Two European formulas have been evaluated for reducing bags, under eye circles and crow’s feet.  Several independent studies have verified the company claims.  EYELISS and HALOXYL work.  After one month of use, there is a... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3740849 Fri, 09 Jul 2010 10:17:31 +0100 3740849 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3733165&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F07%2F08%2Fdo-pearl-proteins-in-elvive-nutrigloss-really-work%2F Anne asks...What’s your opinion on the new LOreal Elvive Nutri Gloss? Can it really make hair shinier? What’s the truth behind the ’special pearl protein’ does it really work? The Right Brain retorts: Pearls are so pretty, this product MUST work better! Right? Wrong! L’Oreal is the king of cool sounding ingredients. In addition to the pearl protein that you asked about, they also sell products with Nutrileum, Regenium XY, and EXPANSYL®. We’re not sure but we think they have a hair mask with ground up Ruby Slippers too. All sarcasm aside, our point is that this pearl protein is just another featured ingredient used by cosmetic companies to attract your attention. That’s what Marketing is all about! L’Oreal has some very fine formulas (they h... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3733165 Thu, 08 Jul 2010 06:01:15 +0100 3733165 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3729971&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F07%2F07%2Fare-peptides-important-ingredients-2%2F Rhonda writes: I’m at the ripe age of 41 and struggling with acne, and the signs of aging. So I’m looking at products all over the skincare spectrum. One ingredient(s) that seems to be hot right now are peptides. I finally have learned about BHAs and AHAs and what they can do for my skin. Now I really need help with these peptides! There seem to be several variations depending on the product. Can you explain exactly what benefit peptides perform for you skin and if I should be looking for particular peptides to perform different functions? The Right Brain writes back: Peptides are the chemists’ shorthand way of describing small pieces of protein molecules. One peptide that’s getting a lot of press right now is copper peptide. As the name implies, it consists of a co... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3729971 Wed, 07 Jul 2010 06:01:51 +0100 3729971 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3726674&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F07%2F06%2Fwhat-is-idebenone-and-what-does-it-do-2%2F Michelle muses: Speak to me, oh Beauty Brains, of “Idebenone” and its supposed anti-aging miracles. A spa in town carries True Cosmetics (www.truecosmetics.com), touted to be the only legal patent holder on this ingredient, but I see Elizabeth Arden is promoting it now. Also, is the similar sounding “idebenal” in any way related? Thanks! The Right’s Brainy explanation: Idebenone has been used for decades as a pharmaceutical “smart drug;” in the US it’s sold without a prescription and classified as a nutritional supplement. Chemically, this material is closely related to CoEnzyme Q10 – a powerful antioxidant which has gained popularity for it’s alleged ability to improve skin wrinkles. Idebenone has found its way into some high end... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3726674 Tue, 06 Jul 2010 06:01:05 +0100 3726674 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3710671&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F06%2F30%2Fis-provitamin-b5-good-for-hair%2F Kelvin queries…I would like to know if Vitamin B5 (Panthenoic acid/Panthenol) plays a role in the hair conditioning (any theories behind) ? If so, how significant is it or is it the active ingredient? The Right Brain bashes B5 a bit: As our regular readers know, vitamins in hair care products do not really provide much of a benefit. They’re used to catch consumers’ attention and to support the story behind the product. Panthenol can be considered the king of all hair care vitamins because that’s where Pantene, one of the leading hair care brands in the world, gets its name. Panthenol prose In reality, Panthenol is a provitamin, not a vitamin, because it is the product of pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5) and alcohol. When panthenol is metabolized by living cells, it re... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3710671 Wed, 30 Jun 2010 06:01:39 +0100 3710671 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3671859&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F06%2F17%2Fare-you-silicone-savvy%2F Bridge begs to know…Beauty Brains, I love it here. You guys answer all kinds of things I’ve always wanted to know. That having been said, a few weeks ago I saw a link to a list of silicones and now I’m unable to find it again. Can you help me out here? I’ve been looking for two weeks. Sarah Bellum says: It’s about time I get to answer a question! I checked our archives and found this post from waaaaay back in 2007.  The Right Brain wrote this list after uh…borrowing the information from the Long Hair site. (Yeah, that’s right it’s just “borrowing…”) Anyways, here’s the list you were looking for and if THAT’S not enough here are a few more ‘cone compilations courtesy of some of our forum femme fatales. (Yo... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3671859 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 06:01:07 +0100 3671859 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3655811&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F158%2Fskin-lightening-with-all-natural-ingredients%2F Skin lightening can be accomplished gradually over time by reducing the amount of time you spend in the sun.  When exposed to sunlight, specialized cells deep within the skin’s layers produce a pigment called melanin.  It is the amount of melanin within the skin’s cells that is responsible for the color of the complexion. Lighter complexions are more easily burned by the sun and have an increased risk of skin cancer.  Darker complexions are resistant to sunburn and have a lower risk of skin cancer. Your natural complexion may be one or two shades lighter than what you see in the mirror today.  Depending on your age and the amount of sun exposure you have had throughout your life, you may have a tanned appearance. In order to see if this is true, you can look at areas of your body t... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3655811 Sat, 12 Jun 2010 15:33:00 +0100 3655811 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3590510&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F82%2Fconsistently-working-for-skin-rejuvenation%2F Here’s a brief look at the latest research in skin rejuvenation.  It seems that a more youthful look is something that anyone can have, if they work at it. How hard is the work?  It takes motivation and consistency to achieve and maintain results on your own. If you were a one-time sun worshiper, you won’t see an immediate change unless you are willing to invest in cosmetic surgery or spa treatments.  If you have good skin right now, keeping it is relatively easy. A person’s lifestyle can affect their appearance as much as anything else.  Researchers have known for years that cigarette smoking, lack of sleep and overexposure to sunlight contribute to a prematurely aged appearance. So, the first steps are preventative measures that will allow your skin’s natural reparative proce... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3590510 Sun, 23 May 2010 06:07:23 +0100 3590510 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3568092&cid=t_103440_160_f&fid=36189&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinmdblog.com%2F79%2Fskin-md-natural-the-top-ingredients%2F Skin MD Natural is a brand of dry skin lotion that you might see advertised in magazines and on TV.  The question is this.  How natural is it?  It takes a little digging to get a complete list of ingredients, but here’s what you will learn if you find one. Ingredients in lotions and other cosmetics are listed according to concentration.  In other words, the first ingredient is the primary component of the product. The first ingredient is water as it is in most skincare products.  It is used for mixing dehydrated ingredients and plant extracts. The second ingredient is Aloe Vera.  Aloe Vera is a common ingredient in skincare products and many people find it to be soothing.  Some studies indicate that it promotes healing. The third ingredient is cyclopentasiloxane.  Although it mig... Skin MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3568092 Sat, 15 May 2010 19:09:20 +0100 3568092 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3487207&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F04%2F20%2Fwhere-can-i-find-ingredient-lists-for-beauty-products%2F Mark must know…I am trying to determine if Suave Daily Clarifying Shampoo contains Polyquaternium-10. Would you be able to answer this question? The Right Brain responds: In case you didn’t know, the ingredient that Mark is looking for is a conditioning agent that is frequently used in shampoos because it is compatible with the surfactants used in those formulas to clean hair. We checked the ingredient list for Suave Daily Clarifying Shampoo from DrugStore.Com and here’s what we found: Water (aqua), Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate, Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate, Cocamide MEA, Ammonium Chloride, PEG 5 Cocamide, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Fragrance, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, DMDM Hydantoin, Citric Acid, Dimethicone Copolyol, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, Tocophery... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3487207 Tue, 20 Apr 2010 06:01:52 +0100 3487207 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3440914&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F04%2F06%2Fis-aloe-vera-a-good-moisturizer%2F NC Fiction’s fanciful question…I recently made a discovery after throwing out garbage bags full of old/useless products that all of the products that work for me contain aloe barbadensis . I have been searching for awhile now for a good moisturizer to no avail. I started using aloe vera on my skin to wipe my face at night and my skin became clearer and brighter! I read that Aloe Vera can be moisturizing though so my question, since Im tired of looking for a moisturizer, is this… Would using aloe vera on my face be considered more like a toner or anti-inflammatory or a moisturizer? Maybe both? If it is moisturizing, is it moisturizing enough to use for the rest of my 20s? The Right Brain’s response: We’ve written before that aloe actually works. However, the i... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3440914 Tue, 06 Apr 2010 06:01:40 +0100 3440914 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3436314&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2010%2F04%2F04%2Fdo-vitamins-in-tigi-bed-head-reconstruct-your-hair-2%2F Kate’s question…What do you think about TIGI Bed Head products? Some of these conditioners and shampoos claim to have mega vitamins A,B,C,D,E and reconstruct your hair. The Right Brain’s response: Kate, you’re just lucky that I’m answering this one instead of the Left Brain. There’s nothing Left loves more than to bash cosmetics with vitamins! I’ll be a little bit nicer. A little bit, but not much! Let’s take a look at Bed Head’s ingredients (we’ll use their Self Absorbed Mega Vitamin Conditioner as an example). Here’s what’s in it: Bed Head ingredients Deionized Water, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG 100 Stearate, Trimethylsilyamodimethicone, Octoxynol 40, Isolaureth 6, Cetyl Alc... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3436314 Sun, 04 Apr 2010 06:01:14 +0100 3436314 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3067307&cid=t_103440_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FvI8bsLiCTUw%2F The increasing reliance on active pharmaceutical ingredients from overseas - notably, China - is prompting a row in Europe, where the Active Pharmaceuticals Ingredients Committee, a trade group, wants the European Commission to require repeated, mandatory inspection of overseas API facilities, Outsourcing Pharma reports. The debate comes amid ongoing concerns over the safety of APIs emanating from China, where reports of counterfeit or diluted ingredients has caused a repeated ruckus, such as with the Heparin scandal last year (some background). Recently, AstraZeneca disclosed plans to rely on China for APIs (see here). The European Commission excluded overseas mandatory inspections from a draft directive because they would be too expensive. However, this was based on a figure that Chris O... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3067307 Tue, 08 Dec 2009 14:06:55 +0100 3067307 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2989407&cid=t_103440_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FEPI2fCRrB0I%2F The Federal Trade Commission is concerned that some brand-name drugmakers are declining to supply some bulk ingredients to their generic rivals which, of course, want to use materials to make copies of more expensive meds, The Wall Street Journal writes. Meanwhile, GlaxoSmithKline cites a federal drug-safety program as its reason for declining to supply bulk quantities of certain drugs, the paper continues. Why? They maintain the generics aren’t authorized to buy drugs under the program, the paper continues. Naturally, the generics calls this a transparent excuse to block competition. “We’re going to be very concerned about any practice that could increase prescription-drug costs to American consumers,” FTC chairman Jon Leibowitz tells the Journal, although he decl... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2989407 Fri, 13 Nov 2009 13:05:58 +0100 2989407 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2984898&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F11%2F12%2F5-places-to-make-your-own-cosmetics%2F There are a number of places on the Internet where you can get recipes for cosmetic products. We haven’t used all of these, but based on the information provided on the website & our vast knowledge about cosmetic chemistry (ok the Right & Left Brain’s knowledge), these are good places for budding young cosmetic chemists to start. DIY Cosmetic sites Creative Cosmetic Company – Former science, chemistry, and art teacher, Joan Brindle founded this company to introduce students to science and teach them to create unique bath and body products such as body butters, foaming soaps, lotions, bubble bars, glimmer sticks, etc. Could make a fun event if you’re near Seattle, Washington but maybe if you’re not, maybe you can get her to travel. Make Your Own Cosmeti... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2984898 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 14:19:37 +0100 2984898 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2709206&cid=t_103440_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F7B6-docGX0U%2F We’ve hear for a while that garlic is one fabulous food item when it comes to benefiting the heart. As soon as the news was out that garlic was good for us, we saw everything from packaged to powdered to pill form. But which is best? You probably guessed this, being the smart reader you are: fresh garlic. Fresh is usually best! The original is always better than the copy. Book always better than the movie… ooops, got off topic there. (But the book usually IS better than the movie – I think most of us can agree on that.) Anyways, a new study has confirmed that fresh garlic helps suppress those nasty chemicals that “act as a “death signal” for heart muscle cells.” So include some fresh garlic in your dinner meal. Who knows, it may make you a little bit heal... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2709206 Mon, 17 Aug 2009 22:24:43 +0100 2709206 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2639636&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F07%2F26%2Fvitamin-c-can-be-good-for-your-skin%2F Meg’s Pondering Sun Protection…I hear a lot about using vitamin C and antioxidants in addition to a high PPD sunscreen to prevent sun damage and aging. Is there truth to this, or is this just something the cosmetics companies invented? The Right Brain’s reply: Actually, there is some solid research that indicates antixoidant vitamins can improve sunscreen SPF. Vitamin boost We’ve known for a long time that sun protection is one of the best things you can do for your skin. But in the last several years, researchers at the North Carolina Biotechnology Center have also demonstrated that vitamin C combined with UVB sunscreen can give additive protection against sunburn. Their study suggests that a vitamin C and E combination is optimal. Does this mean you should run out... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2639636 Sun, 26 Jul 2009 06:01:41 +0100 2639636 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2602096&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F07%2F15%2Fdoes-hair-conditioner-really-contain-fruit-wax%2F Heidi’s comment: Shampoos like Pantene, Dove, and the like are using cheaper grade ingredients because…well?… they’re cheaper and they can… they are not different per say… just… cheaper… and larger in molecule size… Some are using the same kind of wax you put on an apple to make it shiney in the conditioner (you thought the shine was natural?)… Its food grade, edible, and naturally derived… Therefore? Legal and acceptable. The Left Brain retorts: For those of you who may have missed the discussion, Heidi’s comment appeared in our post on How Beauty Salons Lie to You. While I am appreciative off all the comments from the Beauty Brains community, I do feel compelled to correct inaccurate statements when I have the chance... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2602096 Wed, 15 Jul 2009 06:01:56 +0100 2602096 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2442059&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F05%2F28%2Fwho-is-skeptical-about-sunscreen-in-their-hair-products%2F Rae Requests…Could you please explain more about sunscreen not protecting hair? I’ve always heard that people with color-treated hair should use a product with sunscreen. Can hair products with sunscreen at least help protect the scalp? The Right Brain Retorts: Sunscreens in hair care products don’t really do very much. Read on and we’ll explain, question and answer style: Does sunlight really damage your hair? Yes, but not as much as everything else you do. Even if you protected your hair from 100% of the UV damage it sustains, you’d still have more serious damage from combing, brushing, coloring, and, heck, even washing! Ok, but doesn’t sunscreen help a little? Maybe, if it was applied perfectly. Sunscreens work best when they’re applied in a u... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2442059 Thu, 28 May 2009 06:01:05 +0100 2442059 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2382615&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F05%2F03%2Fdoes-cocoa-butter-in-lush-cosmetics-jungle-hair-really-work%2F Cianyde says…I have started wondering if my current fav conditioner ( ‘Jungle’ hair conditioner from Lush ) is as good as I thought it was… The main ingredient is ‘Cocoa butter’ with ‘propylene glycol’ and ‘avocado’ listed later. Is cocoa butter actually a good HAIR conditioner ( I was under the impression that only certain substances like coconut oil and olive oil actually penetrate hair, won’t cocoa butter just slide down the drain?) or , is it the propylene glycol and the avocado that are the only worthwhile ingredients? The Right Brain responds: We applaud your skeptical approach to reading your conditioner label, Cianyde! But remember that conditioning isn’t just about penetrating hair because most conditioning ... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2382615 Sun, 03 May 2009 06:01:30 +0100 2382615 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2376220&cid=t_103440_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F04%2F27%2Fchocolate-and-mood-disorders%2F Isn’t it great that we can have something that is not only good for us, but fun to use? I’m talking about chocolate! Yes sir, dark gold, pure happiness! You’ve probably heard the buzz about dark chocolate, and how it’s good for your blood pressure, lowers cholesterol, prevents cancer and can fix nearly anything that is wrong with you, except that expanding waistline. (And for the record — white chocolate is not really chocolate at all. It’s milk solids and fat. No cocoa. Nada.) The basic ingredients of dark chocolate include cacao beans, sugar, soy lecithin (an emulsifier to preserve texture), and flavorings. This yummy treat, which contains fewer milk solids than its more popular cousin, milk chocolate, often is rated by the percentage of cocoa solids in the bar. The ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2376220 Mon, 27 Apr 2009 16:33:37 +0100 2376220 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2353961&cid=t_103440_122_f&fid=35056&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.renegadeneurologist.com%2Fparkinsons-partially-linked-to-pesticides%2F Dr. Perlmutter’s comment: This supports what we wrote in the Better Brain Book 5 years ago. From Los AngelesTimes.com: UCLA researchers have provided strong new evidence linking at least some cases of Parkinson’s disease to exposure to pesticides. Researchers have suspected for some time that pesticides may cause the neurodegenerative disorder, and experiments in animals have shown that the chemicals, particularly the fungicide maneb and the herbicide paraquat, can cause Parkinson-like symptoms in animals. But proving it in humans has been difficult because of problems in assessing exposure to the agents. Parkinson’s is a disorder of the central nervous system that often impairs the sufferer’s motor skills, speech and other functions. It is not fatal of itself, but ... Renegade Neurologist - A Blog by David Perlmutter, MD, FACN blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2353961 Tue, 21 Apr 2009 21:07:54 +0100 2353961 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2318543&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F04%2F06%2Fare-cosmetic-ingredients-safe%2F The Right Brain rants: You meet the most interesting people on the Internet… One of the Beauty Brains community works for the National Library of Medicine and she passed on several links that are really helpful if you want to look up safety information on ingredients used in household and personal care products. So check out the links below if you want to learn about chemicals that make up the products you use everyday. Cosmetic ingredient database 1. Household Products Database (HPD) Links the chemicals listed on the Material Safety Data Sheets of 8,000 brand name products (including personal care items) to health effects. HPD also links to more information about those chemicals. 2. Hazardous Substances Data Band (HSDB) Contains comprehensive, peer-reviewed toxicology data for about... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2318543 Mon, 06 Apr 2009 06:01:34 +0100 2318543 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2293108&cid=t_103440_122_f&fid=35056&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.renegadeneurologist.com%2Fa-better-use-for-aspartame%2F By David Perlmutter, MD, FACN, ABIHM In the June, 2006 issue of the Idaho Observer Jan Jensen had an article published titled “Aspartame – The World’s Best Ant Poison” (). Here’s what she wrote: “We live in the woods and carpenter ants are a huge problem. We have spent thousands of dollars with Orkin and on ant poisons trying to keep them under control but nothing has helped. So when I read somewhere that aspartame (NutraSweet®) was actually developed as an ant poison and only changed to being considered non-poisonous after it was realized that a lot more money could be made on it as a sweetener than as an ant poison, I decided to give it a try. “I opened two packets of aspartame sweetener, and dumped one in a corner of each of our bathrooms. That was about 2 years ago and I... Renegade Neurologist - A Blog by David Perlmutter, MD, FACN blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2293108 Tue, 24 Mar 2009 10:50:09 +0100 2293108 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2293109&cid=t_103440_122_f&fid=35056&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.renegadeneurologist.com%2Fthe-white-house-plants-organic-gargen%2F This study extends and reinforces findings in earlier research,” he said, referring to reports indicating that when plants are not treated with pesticides and are attacked by insects their levels of antioxidants rise to limit damage. ”But it is new because it uses different crops under different circumstances. The study may have flaws, but it is a legitimate study.” Mr. Avery said the Italian study showed very little difference in nutrient levels. ”I don’t think you are going to find any health differences,” he said. And while scientists emphasize the importance of polyphenols and other antioxidants, particularly because they might help fight cancer, Mr. Avery said: ”No one has a clue how much phenolics anyone needs to consume. Anyone who claims nu... Renegade Neurologist - A Blog by David Perlmutter, MD, FACN blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2293109 Sun, 22 Mar 2009 10:30:50 +0100 2293109 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2095806&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2009%2F01%2F11%2Fcan-grapefruit-shampoo-kill-you%2F Violet’s Very Important Question…I take the beta blocker Coreg (carvedilol) and have been warned to avoid drinking grapefruit juice as it can interact dangerously with the Coreg. Does grapefruit oil/extract in a shampoo have the same potentially dangerous effect, when absorbed through the scalp? (The shampoo in question is Burt’s Bees Super Shiny Grapefruit & Sugar Beet Shampoo, which lists grapefruit oil about tenth down the list of ingredients.) Thanks for your help! The Left Brain Attempts An Important Answer: I think the chances of the grapefruit ingredients in your shampoo being absorbed into your bloodstream and interacting with your beta blocker the same way as ingested grapefruite juice would is extremely unlikley. However, we’re cosmetic scientists, not... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2095806 Mon, 12 Jan 2009 02:40:51 +0100 2095806 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2035526&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2008%2F12%2F13%2Fare-your-cosmetics-left-or-right-handed%2F Lisa’s curious about chirality: I recently learned about products that are chiral. They do sound more beneficial (since I now understand chirality), but does that necessarily mean that the other products that don’t claim to be chiral are no good? The Left Brain’s leftist reply: You must be taking Organic Chemistry right now if you’ve learned what chirality means. It’s an interesting concept and one that this particular Beauty Brain had a difficult time grasping. Let me explain for the benefit of the rest of our community. What is chirality? Chirality essentially means that an object can’t be superimposed on its own mirror image. The easiest way to think about it is to look at your hands. They’re the same size and shape, right? But you can’t put your left han... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2035526 Sat, 13 Dec 2008 06:01:54 +0100 2035526 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2035946&cid=t_103440_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F482713949%2F The numbers coming out of France are in dispute. The drugmaker insists that 700 jobs will be lost trhough layoffs or voluntary departures from its Paris headquarters and among its sales force. But unions at Pfizer’s French subsidiary say the drugmaker will, in reality, reduce its workforce by 892 jobs, from 1,771 employees to 879. Gerard Bouquet, a Pfizer France vp, tells the Agence France Presse, insists that 700 people would leave the company. “This new organization will take effect from December 1, 2009,” he says, adding that “there will be no forced layoffs before” that date. But CFDT union delegate Thierry Lannes argues 892 jobs would be lost. “It is much higher than what we thought,” he tells AFP. Meanwhile, Pfizer has announced the sale of a... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2035946 Fri, 12 Dec 2008 14:16:01 +0100 2035946 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2033244&cid=t_103440_87_f&fid=35052&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FWomensBioethicsBlog%2F%7E3%2F482148232%2Ffor-just-dollar-day.html Could you feed yourself for a dollar a day? That's the question two social justice teachers in California asked themselves in September, and they blogged the month long results. This might not be news for a lot of people, since it seems like the couple received some pretty significant press. But I can do a good job at hiding from the media when I want to, and I managed to miss this particular story. In part, I find myself intrigued by the idea of cutting cost and unhealthy ingredients from my diet, as well as reducing portion sizes. It's hard to argue with the idea that as a country and on the whole, we eat too much, and too much of the wrong things. The things Christopher and Katie discovered won't be a shock to anyone who's read Michael Pollan. Fresh fruits and vegetables will disappear ... Women's Bioethics Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2033244 Thu, 11 Dec 2008 23:44:07 +0100 2033244 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2021323&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2008%2F12%2F08%2Fis-bed-head-bad-for-your-liver%2F Alice Asks…I notice that one of the ingredients in my Tigi Bed Head shampoo is coumarin. As far as I’m aware, this is an anti-coagulant drug derived from fermented sweet clover, and it’s a major ingredient in warfarin, and a basis for some rat poisons. What the hell is it doing in my shampoo? I mean, it’s fourth to last on the ingredients list, so I don’t think it’s going to make my scalp hemorrhage, but why is it THERE? The Left Brain Answers: You are correct, Alice, coumarin does have some very nasty properties. In fact, one of our favorite websites (Molecule of the Day) describes it as a “vanilla-flavored liver damaging fabric brightener.” But there is a reason it’s in your shampoo, although it’s not a very GOOD reason. Let me ... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2021323 Mon, 08 Dec 2008 06:02:27 +0100 2021323 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1960511&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2008%2F11%2F15%2Fdont-mess-with-hormone-creams%2F The objective here is that I want the skin to absorb the hormone, but I don’t want the hormone to get into the body for circulation to other parts of the body.)Any assistance you could give would be much appreciated. The Left Brain’s Response About Mineral Oil and Hormones: You can certainly ask the pharmacist to put your prescription into your regular cream, but we highly doubt that he or she will comply. While mineral oil may not be a problem (it’s a common ingredient in many cosmetic and medicinal bases) there are other factors to consider. The other ingredients in the formula can affect how well the active ingredient does or doesn’t penetrate your skin. Changing from the cream base that your Rx designates to an untested cream base could render your prescription ... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1960511 Sat, 15 Nov 2008 06:01:55 +0100 1960511 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1961220&cid=t_103440_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F452890280%2F Last month, the FDA awarded the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Technology and Education, a non-profit representing several universities, a contract to develop ‘Quality by Design’ science for drugmakers. The idea is to improve manufacturing processes that, presumably, would improve quality and lower costs in plants - and create mininum standards for overseas plants as well. We spoke with Prabir Basu, a former pharma exec who heads NIPTE, which is aligned with the FDA’s Critical Path Initiative, about what QBD can do. This is an excerpt… Pharmalot: First things first, what is Quality by Design and why is it needed? Basu: QBD is using the right science and engineering to design a drug so that you have a process assures you of the quality. And the failure rate wo... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1961220 Fri, 14 Nov 2008 12:33:30 +0100 1961220 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1938878&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2008%2F11%2F06%2Fhow-to-tell-if-your-cosmetics-cause-blackheads%2F T. Thom’s Question..I would like to know if Marula oil is comedogenic and also what the best resource is on the web is to discover the comedogenicity of skincare ingredients? The Right Brain’s Reply: Thanks so much for the question. And thanks for checking out The Beauty Brains. Good data on Marula Oil is hard to find, but according to this supplier of Marula Oil it’s rich in Oleic Acid which is a material that is very comedogenic. My guess would be that this ingredient IS comedogenic (causes blackheads) and should be avoided for anything you’re going to put on your face. As to your second question, there is no good single resource on the web that tells you whether ingredients are comedogenic or not. We use PubMed and information from the American Academy of Dermato... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1938878 Thu, 06 Nov 2008 13:22:56 +0100 1938878 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1930403&cid=t_103440_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F440022434%2F In an essay that takes a top-down view of the agency and its myriad problems protecting the supply of pharmaceuticals, Gardiner Harris of The New York Times reviews the highlights - or lowlights - of the past year or so: the Heparin deaths, the Ranbaxy scandal and the withering criticism from Congress. And he notes some of the issues bedeviling the FDA as it struggles to cope with the growing role played by Chinese suppliers: antiquated FDA computer systems, an inability among FDA staff to decipher names of Chinese plants, difficult travel conditions for agency inspectors, and, of course, the debate over sufficient FDA funding. For instance, this year, 18.2 million shipments of food, devices, cosmetics and drugs are expected to enter more than 300 US ports, but the FDA had 454 investigator... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1930403 Sun, 02 Nov 2008 15:17:56 +0100 1930403 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1930163&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2008%2F11%2F02%2Fare-curly-hair-styling-products-different%2F Nanda Has Curly Curiosity… Hi there! Thanks for your great work on your blog. I have thick curly hair, and it seems the only thing that reliably defines my frizzy curls is a little known product called Dudley’s Fantastic Body Texturizing Setting Lotion. It’s fairly inexpensive, since my hairdresser has me mix it with water before spraying it on my head. It’s water-based, and so unlike gels and creams, it doesn’t build up at all. Also, I keep hearing raves about another product that sounds very similar, called Curly Hair Solutions Curl Keeper. Could you help me determine if they’re as similar as they sound? The Right Brain Chemically Corresponds: Nanda, the products that you’re considering are quite different based on the ingredient lists. Let&#8217... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1930163 Sun, 02 Nov 2008 05:01:57 +0100 1930163 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1894806&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2008%2F10%2F21%2Fare-animal-cosmetic-ingredients-still-used%2F Nicola needs to know…Is it true that rendering plants sell animal by-products for use in cosmetics? Left Brain Illuminates: It has always amused me that people will gleefully eat steak, lobster, and fried chicken, but are appalled to imagine animal ingredients would be used in their cosmetics. What do they think should happen to the inedible parts that come from food production? Just be deposited in landfills and allowed to rot?  I’m sincerely curious. Animal Ingredients in Cosmetics But enough of that.  To answer your question, YES, it is true that there are still some animal ingredients used in cosmetics. Their use is not nearly as prevalent as fringe cosmetic companies like Arbonne would suggest, but they are still in there. For a big list of possible animal ingredients ... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1894806 Tue, 21 Oct 2008 05:44:22 +0100 1894806 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1870535&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2008%2F10%2F11%2Fthe-top-ten-cosmetic-skin-irritants%2F Learn from the Left Brain… How many of you Beauty Brains faithful have experienced some kind of temporary skin rash, reddening, or itchiness? That condition is known as allergic contact dermatitis and this study by the Mayo Clinic lists the top 10 ingredients that can cause the condition. The list includes metals, antibiotics, fragrance ingredients, and various preservatives. If you experience this condition the best solution is to avoid these ingredients! Here they are in no particular order. Top 10 Skin Irritants 1. Nickel (nickel sulfate hexahydrate): Found in jewelry or on your clothes. 2. Gold (gold sodium thiosulfate): Yes, the same stuff used to make jewelry. 3. Cobalt chloride: A metal used for many applications like medical products, hair dye, and antiperspirants to name a f... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1870535 Sat, 11 Oct 2008 05:22:10 +0100 1870535 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1834539&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2008%2F09%2F27%2Fnaturally-nasty-the-top-10-natural-ingredients-you-need-to-avoid%2F The Left Brain’s lesson: Here at the Beauty Brains we get tons of comments and emails telling us how all-natural ingredients are the best thing you can use on your hair and skin.  We’ve previously explored the topic and have explained why we believe “natural” ingredients are neither superior nor inferior to “synthetic” ones.  Both sources can provide good and bad ingredients. Being a biologist at heart, I thought this list of natural ingredients to avoid was interesting. Naturally Toxic Ingredients 10. Patulin: The patulin toxin produced by fungi found on rotting apples. It’s not especially dangerous but a few studies have shown it can cause DNA mutations. Watch out if you’re making your own apple juice to put in your DIY personal care pr... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1834539 Sat, 27 Sep 2008 05:01:48 +0100 1834539 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1815192&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2008%2F09%2F22%2Fhow-does-oil-free-moisturizer-work%2F Pas71 is perplexed: How does oil free moisturizer work? The Right Brain replies: Pas’ question came to us as comment in our recent post on our post on Which Is A Better Moisturizer: Oil or Water? and we thought it would make an excellent follow-up post.  Ordinary oil According to Wikipedia, an oil is defined as follows: An oil is a substance that is in a viscous liquid state (”oily”) at ambient temperatures or slightly warmer, and is both hydrophobic (immiscible with water) and lipophilic (miscible with other oils, literally). This general definition includes compound classes with otherwise unrelated chemical structures, properties, and uses, including vegetable oils, petrochemical oils, and volatile essential oils. Oil is a nonpolar substance. Functionally speaking, o... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1815192 Mon, 22 Sep 2008 05:01:00 +0100 1815192 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1791572&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2008%2F09%2F15%2Fwhy-is-there-shark-oil-in-my-skin-cream%2F Jamie’s suspicious about squalane: My friend swears by pure squalane oil but I find it kind of suspicious. Supposedly it’s derived from olive oil or shark liver. It’s found in quite a few body products but what exactly does it do? The Right Brain’s shark attack: To answer your question about squalane we have to talk about squalene. No, that’s not a typo; the “e” versus the “a” makes a big difference.    Why shark liver oil? Our story begins with squalene, which is a naturally occurring oil that historically has been obtained from shark’s livers.  What’s so special about shark liver? Sharks belong to a class of fish that do not have a swim bladder to provide bouyancy, so they evolved bodies that contain a lot of light ... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1791572 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 05:01:28 +0100 1791572 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1773154&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2008%2F09%2F08%2Feven-more-alternative-uses-for-petroleum-jelly%2F Mid Brain muses: I saw the Beauty Banter blog wrote a short piece about 5 unconventional uses for Vaseline. She includes using it as a makeup remover, an eyebrow conditioner, a shaving aid and a mixer to modify your other makeups. We’ve blogged about Vaseline before and these are some great tips. Now here are a few more you could try. Lip balm - It won’t taste good but it works. Perfume extender - A thin layer on your wrist before putting on your fragrance will make it last longer. Manicure protector - Stop your color from running by putting some on the base of your nails. Hair styler/conditioner - You can temporarily seal split ends, slick hair and even condition. Just don’t use too much. It may take a few shampooings to remove. Prevent chafing - Runners know this trick... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1773154 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 05:01:40 +0100 1773154 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1708875&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2008%2F08%2F17%2Fcan-you-use-art-supplies-to-make-your-own-diy-cosmetics%2F Heather has a hunch: I’m fed up with paying even drugstore prices for make-up. I’m ready to put on one of those scary little Michael Jackson surgical masks,some latex gloves and an herb grinder and make my own face paint. As you can tell, I’m cheap. I spent all weekend trying to find the most ingredients for the least money. Mica pigments seem to be the one thing I need the most variety of, but I find that mica from art supply websites are much cheaper by the ounce than from a cosmetic supply site. Would they be just as safe to use? The Right Brain replies: You’ll need more than a scary Michael Jackson mask to protect you if you’re going to unsafe ingredients! Remember, other industries don’t have to adhere to the same safety standards as the cosmetic in... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1708875 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 05:01:04 +0100 1708875 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1692422&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2FQDOpgT-ud-A%2F Scientists at the University of Florida College of Pharmacy found a marine compound that inhibits cancer cell growth in lab tests which they hope can lead to new anti-cancer drugs with fewer sides effects. The said UF-patented compound, called largazole was made from cyanobacteria that grow on coral reefs. Researchers, who described results from early studies today (Aug. 7) at an international natural products scientific meeting in Athens, Greece, say it is one of the most promising they’ve found since the college’s marine natural products laboratory was established three years ago. Largazole, discovered and named by Luesch for its Florida location and structural features, seeks out a family of enzymes called histone deacetylase, or HDAC. Overactivity of certain HDACs has been associat... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1692422 Sat, 09 Aug 2008 06:12:23 +0100 1692422 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1688930&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2008%2F08%2F08%2Fchic-clicks-the-best-of-this-weeks-beauty-blogs-15%2F Girlawhirltakes a first look at fall fashion. SheFinds is scarred for life thanks to adolescent beauty mishaps. See what products we swear by to prevent these disasters from happening again. Smarter Fashion gave us some valuable tips on how to dress while traveling to ensure your safety. StyleBakery.com shows how to transition your shoe wardrobe from summer to fall without missing a step. Top Button is falling hard for these eco-conscious yet absolutely adorable plastic wedge peep-toes by Melissa. An autumn must-have! The Beauty Brains reveal the real reason for wrinkles. (Source: thebeautybrains.com) thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1688930 Fri, 08 Aug 2008 05:00:50 +0100 1688930 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1686600&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F6ZMvWe5fSAg%2F Tumor weight and growth rate has been reduced by about 50 percent in mouse models of brain, ovarian, and pancreatic cancers with injections of high-dose Vitamin C (ascorbate or ascorbic acid). Such were the results reported by the NIH study at the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS): The NIH researchers, however, tested the idea that ascorbate, when injected at high doses, may have prooxidant instead of antioxidant activity. Prooxidants would generate free radicals and the formation of hydrogen peroxide, which, the scientists hypothesized, might kill tumor cells. In their laboratory experiments on 43 cancer and 5 normal cell lines, the researchers discovered that high concentrations of ascorbate had anticancer effects in 75 percent of cancer cell lines tested, while spar... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1686600 Thu, 07 Aug 2008 03:43:45 +0100 1686600 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1683524&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2FPbkU2BRxEJg%2F A research team from Virginia Commonwealth University Massey Cancer Center and the VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine have showed that combining a dietary agent with a gene-delivered cytokine effectively eliminates human pancreatic cancer cells in mice displaying sensitivity to these highly aggressive and lethal cancer cells. The cytokine used in this study was melanoma differentiation associated gene-7/interleukin-24, known as mda-7/IL-24. The dietary agent, perillyl alcohol (POH), was combined with mda-7/IL-24, which is already used in other cancer treatments. POH is found in a variety of plants, including citrus plants, and has been well-tolerated by patients who have received it in clinical studies. Published in the July issue of Molecular Cancer Therapeutics, their results indicated ... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1683524 Tue, 05 Aug 2008 23:07:29 +0100 1683524 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1679664&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2FjoM0u6RljsM%2F Methadone - the agent used against opioid addiction - has been found by German researchers to have surprising killing powers against treatment-resistant forms of leukemia cells. Methadone, developed in Germany in the 1930s, is a low cost agent that acts on opioid receptors, and thus is used as an opioid substitute to treat addiction. Scientists have found that opioid receptors also exist on the surface of some cancer cells for reasons that are not understood. One research group tested the agent in human lung cancer cell lines and found that it can induce cell death. Thus suggesting that methadone has the potential as a new therapy for leukemia, more specifically in patients whose cancer no longer responds to chemotherapy and radiation. The said laboratory study finding was published in the... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1679664 Mon, 04 Aug 2008 21:59:29 +0100 1679664 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1668762&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F351321495%2F Amgen has recently been told by the FDA to reword the labeling of its flagship anemia drugs - Aranesp and Procrit - to further restrict their use in treating cancer patients. The move, which the F.D.A. announced on Wednesday, represents the first time the agency has invoked authority under a 2007 law that empowered it to order changes in a drug’s prescribing information. Previously, the F.D.A. could only negotiate with a drug’s manufacturer to change the label. Sales of the drugs, Aranesp and Procrit, have already plummeted in the last year because of studies suggesting that their use to treat the anemia caused by chemotherapy could actually make cancer worse or shorten lives. Procrit is manufactured by Amgen but sold under license by Johnson & Johnson. Read more from NY Times. Tag... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1668762 Thu, 31 Jul 2008 08:09:34 +0100 1668762 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1658234&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F348107526%2F I found a very nice read today, pointed out to me by Mike Street of Reader’s Digest Online: an article entitled 31 Simple Ways to Prevent Cancer. Some very practical tips presented in a sorta funny way but with a big ring of truth into it. Besides, before we all get rattled by the recent cancer scare on cellphone use and other stuff, really the prevention (or at least reducing our risk of developing any cancer later in life) all boils down to the dietary and lifetsyle changes each of us are willing to take, IMHO. Anyways, here goes in bullets only: Serve sauerkraut at your next picnic. Eat your fill of broccoli, but steam it rather than microwaving it. Toast some Brazil nuts and sprinkle over your salad. Pop a calcium supplement with vitamin D. Add garlic to everything you eat. Sau... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1658234 Mon, 28 Jul 2008 10:00:33 +0100 1658234 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1652555&cid=t_103440_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F344936804%2F First, Sherrod Brown goes after Pfizer over its outsourcing and the extent to which it purchases active pharmaceutical ingredients from such countries as China. Now, the Democrat from Ohio, wrote Merck to ask how the drugmaker guarantees the safety of pharmaceutical ingredients and its finished meds. In explaining his reason, Brown cites a January 9 interview with Merck’s Richard Spoor, senior vp of global procurement, who said the drugmaker is “moving in the direction of externally sourcing approximately 35 percent of the overall manufacture of active pharmaceutical ingredients, intermediates, formulated pharmaceuticals, sterile products, vaccines, and packaging by 2010..This would represent a two-fold increase over what we currently source from external manufacturers.” So Brown wa... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1652555 Thu, 24 Jul 2008 19:58:04 +0100 1652555 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1649361&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F344365061%2F This report has been causing a stir earlier this week. The good in the evil tobacco? So reports are saying. Okay before we all get too excited…the tobacco plants used are genetically engineered. To make the vaccine, researchers took a sample of a patient’s tumors, which in this trial were made up of B cells (white blood cells that help the body battle disease and infection). They then extracted the gene from the cells that coded for the antigen they needed (to help the immune system recognize the tumors as threats). The key, researchers say, was to make enough of the protein quickly to prompt an immune response. In this case, the scientists achieved this by inserting the gene into a plant microbe known a tobacco mosaic virus (TMV). Plants are infected with TMV simply by scratch... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1649361 Thu, 24 Jul 2008 08:00:06 +0100 1649361 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1637996&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F339122109%2F ImClone Systems, Inc.’s advanced colorectal cancer drug has now received regulatory approval in Japan. ERBITUX(R) (cetuximab) has received marketing authorization in Japan for use in treating patients with advanced or metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). Specifically, this approval allows for the use of ERBITUX to treat patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-positive, curatively unresectable (inoperable), advanced or recurrent CRC, and allows the use of ERBITUX plus irinotecan in second and further lines of mCRC. With this approval, ERBITUX is the first ever EGFR-targeted monoclonal antibody to be submitted for and receive marketing authorization in Japan. ERBITUX (cetuximab) is a monoclonal antibody (IgG1 Mab) designed to inhibit the function of a molecular structure ... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1637996 Fri, 18 Jul 2008 16:00:28 +0100 1637996 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1631684&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F337199259%2F University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center researchers have identified tissue type transglutaminase (TG2) as potential therapeutic target in chemotherapy-resistant ovarian cancer. “….found overexpression of tissue type transglutaminase (TG2) in ovarian cancer is associated with increased tumor cell growth and adhesion, resistance to chemotherapy and lower overall survival rates. When researchers targeted and silenced TG2 in animal models, cancer progression was reversed, suggesting the protein may also provide a novel therapeutic approach for late-stage ovarian cancer.” Reported findings appear in the July 15th issue of Cancer Research. Read more from UT MD Anderson Cancer Center. Tags: chemotherapy-resistant ovarian cancer, late-stage advanced ovarian cancer, ovari... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1631684 Wed, 16 Jul 2008 16:00:22 +0100 1631684 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1603443&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F331357824%2F Some hormone-blocking drugs may not be beneficial to the elderly prostate cancer patients. Such were the findings of a new prostate cancer study. A prostate cancer study that could change how doctors treat some patients found that widely used hormone-blocking drugs did not improve survival chances for older men whose disease hadn’t spread. In fact, men given the drugs alone were slightly more likely to die of prostate cancer during the next six years than men who’d gotten medical monitoring but no or delayed treatment, another common treatment approach. The study involved nearly 20,000 Medicare patients with prostate cancer that hadn’t spread. A surprising 41 percent got only drug treatment, in shots or implants, showing that the therapy has become a popular alternative t... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1603443 Thu, 10 Jul 2008 03:18:23 +0100 1603443 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1596918&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F329575132%2F A molecule called STF-62247 has been discovered by Stanford University School of Medicine researchers to be toxic against kidney cancer cells but is generally harmless to most other cells in the human body. According to Amato Giaccia, PhD, professor and director of radiation oncology and radiation biology at the medical school: “You now have a potential means of going after a disease that’s been difficult to treat. There is no effective chemotherapy to treat renal cell carcinoma. Patients still succumb. Clinical trials could begin “in the next couple years”.” Above findings are published today in the journal Cancer Cell. Hopefully this discovery will in the future lessen the surgery option for kidney cancer treatment. Read more from Science Daily. Tags: anti-k... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1596918 Tue, 08 Jul 2008 07:05:09 +0100 1596918 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1542996&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2008%2F06%2F24%2Fdoes-silk-protein-really-help-your-hair%2F Ligirl217 says: I use Rusk’s smoother shampoo and calm conditioner. I would not buy my hair products at a drug store because they are loaded with stuff that makes you feel like your hair is silkier but it actually does nothing to solve the problem with keeping your hair in good condition. I use a deep conditioner by the brand Italy which makes hair dye and is sold at my salon…this thing is god sent because my hair is AMAZING after I use it (once a week). Here’s a trick: when shopping for both shampoo and conditioner, make sure to read the ingredients and look for silk or wheat proteins…it’s the key to healthy hair! The Right Brain Responds: We’d love to find out exactly which “Italy” deep conditioner you’re using, we’re not very f... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1542996 Tue, 24 Jun 2008 05:00:41 +0100 1542996 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1535948&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F316685691%2F GlaxoSmithKline has won a contract with the UK’s NHS to supply its cervical cancer vaccine, Cervarix. The battle to supply a vaccine against cervical cancer for use across Britain has been won by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK). Cervarix, the GSK vaccine, will be given to girls aged between 12 and 13, starting in September this year, and should prevent about 70 per cent of cervical cancers — saving 400 lives a year when the effect is fully felt. Read more from The UK Times Online. Let’s wait and see what Merck (maker of the other cervical cancer vaccine Gardasil) has to say about this. Tags: CErvarix, cervical-cancer, cervical-cancer-vaccine, Gardasil, GlaxoSmithKline, Merck, UK NHSShare This (Source: Cancer Commentary) Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1535948 Sat, 21 Jun 2008 04:48:23 +0100 1535948 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1531832&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F315349454%2F Okay…here goes another news on flavonols from tea, onions, beans and apples. As suggested by findings of a new U.S. study, increased intake of such flavonols may reduce risk of colorectal cancer by as much as 76 percent. Findings were published in this month’s Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention: Analysis of data from a randomised dietary intervention trial showed that the overall class of flavonoid compounds was not associated with a risk reduction, but flavonols - a sub-group of flavonoids, did significantly reduce risk. The study adds to a growing body of science linking increased consumption of flavonol-rich foods, such as fruit and vegetables, to risk reductions for a range of cancers, including lung, pancreatic, and breast cancer. Flavonols, a sub-group of fla... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1531832 Thu, 19 Jun 2008 11:10:14 +0100 1531832 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1525938&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2008%2F06%2F17%2Fdo-la-roche-and-peter-thomas-roth-products-contain-skin-irritants%2F Jennifer is suspicious about sodium hydroxide: I keep reading that sodium hydroxide is a real skin irritant, yet I keep seeing it in quite a few high-end skin products (Peter Thomas Roth’s “Unwrinkle” pads, fourth on the ingred. list and La Roche-Posay eye cream). I know that it is regularly used to change the pH of the product. What I do not know is should I avoid it like the plague? Or is it ok in small amounts? I keep reading conflicting things, so I thought I would finally turn to you! The Right Brain reaffirms: You are absolutely right, Jen. But you’re also totally wrong. Allow us to explain. What is Sodium Hydroxide Sodium hydroxide (or NaOH as we chemists like to call it) is a very powerful alkaline, or basic, material. That means it has a pH that is so high ... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1525938 Tue, 17 Jun 2008 05:01:18 +0100 1525938 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1516777&cid=t_103440_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F311340134%2F So if drugmakers can outsource the manufacture of active pharmaceutical ingredients, why can’t the FDA outsource the inspections? That’s one possibility being considered by both the agency and some members of Congress amid debate and turmoil over FDA funding and tainted goods, Reuters reports. Nearly 80 percent of ingredients used in meds sold in the US come from China and India, according to the FDA, but last year, just 83 plants in those countries were inspected. But critics say a multimillion-dollar program to use third-party inspectors to boost inspections of medical devices has flopped. It took the FDA two years to approve the first private inspectors that can be hired to check facilities. Since then, 12 third-party inspections have been conducted, according to Daniel Schu... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1516777 Fri, 13 Jun 2008 19:05:36 +0100 1516777 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1485038&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F302568867%2F Increased intake of certain flavonoids in smokers may protect them by as much as 50 percent against lung cancer risk. Such were the findings of a UCLA study: Increasing intakes of epicatechin, catechins, and quercetin, found in tea and vegetables were associated with significant risk reductions. According to lead researcher Zuo-Feng Zhang from UCLA’s Jonsson Cancer Center: “What we found was extremely interesting, that several types of flavonoids are associated with a reduced risk of lung cancer among smokers. The findings were especially interesting because tobacco smoking is the major risk factor for lung cancer.” But still, tobacco smoke must be skipped altogether, because smoking remains a major factor for lung cancer risk. It just so interesting how smokers were prot... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1485038 Sun, 01 Jun 2008 22:00:19 +0100 1485038 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1482545&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F301841391%2F ERBITUX® (Cetuximab) - product of Merck KGaA and ImClone Systems Inc. - has received EU backing as first-line treatment for colon cancer. According to the European Medicines Agency: Erbitux can be given as the first drug in colon-cancer treatment in patients who carry an unmutated kras gene, restricting its use to about 65 percent of patients. Erbitux is the first monoclonal antibody approved by the US FDA for the treatment of advanced colon cancer that has spread to the other parts of the body — either alone or in combination with other treatments. Read more about the EU backing on Erbitux from Bloomberg. Tags: colon-cancer, EMEA, ERBITUX® (Cetuximab), ImClone Systems Inc., MErck KGaAShare This (Source: Cancer Commentary) Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1482545 Sat, 31 May 2008 12:53:29 +0100 1482545 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1454263&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2008%2F05%2F20%2Fhow-to-make-diy-cosmetics-with-vitamin-c%2F DesignerGrl’s dilemma: I know that vitamin C is unstable in cosmetics, and that stable sources are very expensive. So I was wondering: I have Citric Acid in my spice collection — I use it to make Mozzarella. Could I sprinkle a little into a dab of my moisturizer before applying it? Could I make my own Vitamin C exfoliating treatment (avoiding eye area, of course)? What other DIY exfoliating peels could I make at home? Thanks! The Left Brain performs a (Vitamin) C-section: First of all, VItamin C is found in ascorbic acid, not citric acid. So you can save your spice. Second, in most cases, I don’t really believe that Do It Yourself cosmetics offer any advantages over “store bought” products. But in the case of Vitamin C, I just might make an exception. Vitamin... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1454263 Tue, 20 May 2008 05:01:12 +0100 1454263 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1451708&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2008%2F05%2F18%2Fcan-anti-acne-sticks-actually-make-acne-worse%2F Sarah (no relation to Sarah Bellum) says: You guys are great– the Mythbusters of Makeup!! I’m concerned about my acne cover-up. The salicylic acid in Maybelline Pure Concealer is supposed to be good to banish zits, but are the other things that make it a waxy stick actually worsening my acne? Is a cream concealer better? Thank you! The Right Brain responds: Thanks for the kind words, Sarah. If the Left Brain wasn’t so afraid of getting sued, we probably would change our name to “Makeup Mythbusters.” But for now, you’re stuck with the Beauty Brains. You raised a good question about concealer sticks. Will all those heavy, waxy chemicals clog our pores? The answer lies in the acnegenic nature of the specific chemicals in the formula. Allow me to explain: Do... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1451708 Sun, 18 May 2008 16:39:55 +0100 1451708 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1414886&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2008%2F05%2F02%2Fthe-best-way-to-find-out-if-youre-allergic-to-a-cosmetic%2F Corey ’s curious: What’s in Mary Kay’s Timewise line that isn’t in anything else? I recently had a severe allergic reaction to it and I’ve never never had a reaction to anything else in my entire life. I’ve been using Sabon NYC`s Seaweed line, and Lush’s Ocean Salt and never has any problems. What gives? The Left Brain Responds: To start with, let’s take a look at the ingredient list for Timewise: Water, Mineral Oil, Glycerin, Isotheral, Neopentanoate, Bentonite, Cetyl Dimethicone Copolyol, Octyl Pelargonate, Neopentyl, Glycol Dioctanoate, Myristyl Myristate, PPg-26-Buteth-26, Sorbitol, Sucrose, Distearate, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Oleyl Oleate, Tocopherol, Comfrey Extract, Burdock Extract, Hops Extract, Yarrow Extract, Meadowsweet Ex... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1414886 Fri, 02 May 2008 05:01:54 +0100 1414886 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1391299&cid=t_103440_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F275349371%2F Although the FDA increased inspections of foreign drug plants last year, the agency still checked only 11 percent of the sites that supply pharmaceutical ingredients to the US market. That’s what GAO health care director Marcia Crosse will tell the House Energy and Commerce Committee this morning at a hearing to discuss the FDA’s oversight of foreign manufacturing, according to Reuters. Concern about FDA oversight has risen since the finding of a contaminant in some batches of Heparin that were made with raw ingredients from China, where officials are now are voicing doubts that a contaminant identified in Heparin was the root cause of 81 deaths and severe allergic reactions in hundreds of Americans. “FDA’s plans represent a step forward in filling the large gaps ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1391299 Tue, 22 Apr 2008 12:12:47 +0100 1391299 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1380613&cid=t_103440_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F272464380%2F Discussion Draft is meant to stimulate chatter about how to provide adequate funding and authority for FDA to ensure the safety of the nation’s food, drug, medical device, and cosmetic supply, according to the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which intends to hold hearings over the next few weeks and to markup legislation shortly thereafter. This is the text. The bill, by the way, would be known as the Food and Drug Administration Globalization Act of 2008, and builds on four other pieces of legislation - HR 3610, HR 3624, HR 3484 and HR 3115 - as well as the investigations conducted by the Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee of the Committee on Energy and Commerce and the report of the FDA Science Board’s Subcommittee on Science and Technology, among other things. These are ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1380613 Thu, 17 Apr 2008 22:09:43 +0100 1380613 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1375200&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F271000486%2F Administration of the popular anti-inflammatory drug Celebrex (celecoxib, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug) in combination with Lipitor (atorvastatin, a cholesterol lowering drug or statin) halts the transition of early prostate cancer to its more aggressive and potentially deadly stage. “Anti-androgen therapy slows the prostate cancer but eventually the cancer becomes androgen-independent, the therapy becomes ineffective and the cancer cells become more aggressive,” said Xi Zheng, assistant research professor at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, who conducted the study. “Treatments available for the later stage cancers are not very good,” said Allan Conney, director of Rutgers’ Susan Lehman Cullman Laboratory for Cancer Research, another resea... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1375200 Tue, 15 Apr 2008 22:02:12 +0100 1375200 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1368007&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F268693433%2F In a mice study, the green tea compound EGCG has been found to significantly inhibit breast cancer growth. EGCG (epigallocatechin-3- gallate) is a known antioxidant — helps prevent the body’s cells from becoming damaged and prematurely aged. Studies have suggested that the combination of green tea and EGCG may also be beneficial by providing protection against certain types of cancers, including breast cancer. A new study conducted by researchers at the University of Mississippi researchers now finds that consuming EGCG significantly inhibits breast tumor growth in female mice. These results bring us one step closer to better understanding the disease and potentially new and naturally occurring therapies. Hmmm…green tea! Don’t you just love it? ;-) Find more details fro... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1368007 Sat, 12 Apr 2008 00:37:09 +0100 1368007 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1356371&cid=t_103440_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F266347242%2F In the aftermath of the Heparin controversy, a zillion questions are being asked. And one involves greater disclosure concerning the origins of those materials used to make drugs. As Melinda Beck points out in her health column in The Wall Street Journal, the FDA requires drugmakers to disclose only the name and place of business of the manufacturer, packer or distributor of prescription medications. Active and inactive ingredients must be listed on the label, but not the raw materials or their origins, which are considered “commercial confidential.” PhRMA argues that making such info public would be neither practical nor helpful to consumers, and that what counts is that any med sold in the US must meet Good Manufacturing Practices set by the FDA, Beck writes. “The requi... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1356371 Tue, 08 Apr 2008 13:22:40 +0100 1356371 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1344650&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F262710483%2F I got this from the Belfast Telegraph: Thousands of people in Northern Ireland are increasing their long-term risk of cancer and obesity by skipping breakfast and turning to sugary and fatty snacks instead. Ugh. Isn’t that exactly the case, practically anywhere?! Point in case: the western world, the modern world, in Asia! Anywhere, right? Unhealthy eating habits, diets will lead to obesity, cardiovascular diseases and of course…Cancer! A new survey commissioned by the leading charity found that 25% of people in Northern Ireland miss breakfast at least twice a week. It found that nearly half of respondents (48%) admitted to snacking on fatty and sugary foods such as crisps, biscuits, cakes and sweets to keep morning hunger at bay. Experts estimate that about a quarter of all c... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1344650 Wed, 02 Apr 2008 14:52:16 +0100 1344650 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1332793&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F259586803%2F Antioxidants in grape skins and red wine can kill pancreatic cancer cells by getting into the center of the cell’s energy - the mitochondria- thereby disabling its function. Such were the findings of a team from University of Rochester Medical Center. The new study also showed that when the pancreatic cancer cells were doubly assaulted — pre-treated with the antioxidant, resveratrol, and irradiated — the combination induced a type of cell death called apoptosis, an important goal of cancer therapy. Although red wine consumption during chemotherapy or radiation treatment has not been well studied, it is not “contraindicated,” Okunieff said. In other words, if a patient already drinks red wine moderately, most physicians would not tell the patient to give it up ... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1332793 Fri, 28 Mar 2008 11:32:47 +0100 1332793 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1324925&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2008%2F03%2F25%2Fbreast-milk-soap-appealing-or-appalling%2F Here’s an idea for all you cosmetic “Do-It-Yourself-ers” out there: According to Traditionalmidwife.com, you can make your own soap using breast milk. Not having kids of my own yet it’s hard for me to decide if this idea is appealing or appalling. It could be appealing because there is something natural and wholesome about using mother’s milk. And it could be appalling because this feels kind of like a gimmick that may not necessarily be better for your skin. The science of soap The recipe from the website is for a type of lye soap, which is made by neutralizing oils and fatty acids with high pH sodium hydroxide. (Lye is another name for sodium hydroxide, it’s also sometimes called “caustic.”) Lye soaps have been used for thousand of years and while they do the job they c... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1324925 Tue, 25 Mar 2008 05:01:21 +0100 1324925 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1303512&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F251286999%2F March is National Nutrition Month. Here at Cancer Commentary, we are crazy about food too, especially those that have anti-cancer properties! To support the National Nutrition Month, here inside the b5media Science and Health Channel, we pay tribute to nutrition and how it relates to respective blogs in the channel. Check out the theme day post, written by Ruth Schaffer of Eating Fabulous. Holy cow! It’s already Friday…enjoy your weekend guys!! ;-) Tags: B5media, diet, Eating Fabulous, food, National Nutrition Month, Science-and-Health-Channel, Theme DayShare This (Source: Cancer Commentary) Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1303512 Fri, 14 Mar 2008 09:30:32 +0100 1303512 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1301914&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F251076162%2F An allergic reaction to the cancer drug cetuximab has been found. Sometimes the reaction includes anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition characterized by a drop in blood pressure, fainting, difficulty breathing, and wheezing. Now researchers funded by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of the National Institutes of Health, have discovered that specific pre-existing antibodies cause the severe reaction to the drug. Cetuximab is an immune-based therapy commonly used to treat persons diagnosed with head and neck cancer, or colon cancer, marketed as the popular brand Erbitux — a product of ImClone Systems Inc. and Bristol-Myers Squibb Company. Find more details from NIAD/NIH. Tags: allergic reaction, cancer-drug, cetuximab, colorectal-cancer, Erbit... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1301914 Fri, 14 Mar 2008 00:19:39 +0100 1301914 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1297988&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F250183262%2F It has all been said so many times already that one’s diet plays a big role in cancer and cancer prevention. Although that is true, we cannot just decide one day to pick up a healthier diet (like increasing the intake of fruits and veggies!!) and be assured we won’t increase or risk of developing any cancer type. One cannot just erase one’s history of unhealthy eating and lifestyle, right? How can one erase something like not giving fruits, veggies and fish a second look during the first 30 years of your life?! Ever heard of the words: from cradle to grave? That’s also the period of time we all should be living healthy, not only against cancer but also against any other serious medical condition. As of late, here are the most recent reports that involves nutrition ... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1297988 Wed, 12 Mar 2008 15:22:42 +0100 1297988 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1283632&cid=t_103440_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F246813095%2F Toxic toys? Tainted toothpaste? Contaminated Heparin? Some drugmakers may not be deterred. Take Pfizer- maybe. During its briefing yesterday for Wall Streeters, the drugmaker noted how important Asia is to its future growth. As part of its plan, Pfizer hopes to take “greater advantage of global manufacturing and R&D” there. Specifically, Pfizer “plans to expand operations in China from the 110 cities it now serves to more than 650 cities.” So does that mean Pfizer will manufacture in China - and then sell those drugs in the US? “They didn’t say it. That doesn’t mean it isn’t happening,” Les Funtleyder, an analyst at Miller TabakFuntleyder, tells the Associated Press. “They said they would use regional plants to supply the reg... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1283632 Thu, 06 Mar 2008 15:53:02 +0100 1283632 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1281071&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F246202699%2F According to a study of more than 77,000 vitamin users , intake of some vitamin supplements do not protect against lung cancer, especially in smokers. Said the study’s author, Christopher G. Slatore, M.D., of the University of Washington, in Seattle: “Our study of supplemental multivitamins, vitamin C, vitamin E and folate did not show any evidence for a decreased risk of lung cancer. Indeed, increasing intake of supplemental vitamin E was associated with a slightly increased risk of lung cancer.” Such were the findings of Dr. Slatore and colleagues from selected prospective cohort of 77,126 men and women between 50 and 76 years of age in the Washington state VITAL (VITamins And Lifestyle) study. From the said population, the team determined their rate of developing lung ... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1281071 Wed, 05 Mar 2008 16:14:12 +0100 1281071 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1268660&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F243261697%2F Vitamin D has the potential to become the “new aspirin“, the little inexpensive pill that may be able to block the development of some cancers, strengthen bones, prevent multiple sclerosis and alleviate winter depression. Such were the findings of a new Canadian study: But it’s not science fiction. The “new aspirin” could be Vitamin D. Just as we discovered that aspirin can guard against heart disease, Vitamin D could become a useful weapon in the fight against MS, osteoporosis, mild depression and one of the most devastating diseases of our time – cancer. “As time has gone by, Vitamin D has raised its head as a sort of ambrosia for cancers,” says Dr. Louise Parker, an epidemiologist and a world expert in the environmental exposures that can lead to cancer. Or, in t... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1268660 Fri, 29 Feb 2008 11:17:14 +0100 1268660 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1230435&cid=t_103440_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.healthtalk.com%2Fmultiple-sclerosis%2Flife-with-ms%2Ffebruary-recipe-for-success-soup-sundays%2F A year can fly by so quickly for me. It was a year ago this week that we first had our first “Recipe for Success” blog posting here at Life with MS. In the ensuing 12 months, we’ve talked about ingredients, recipes, seasonal foods and the like. Today, I’d like to talk about a piece of equipment to make our lives easier and allow creativity. For the past several years, Sundays are “Soup Sunday” around Trevis Gleason’s kitchen. I like to head to the local farmer’s market or Seattle’s famous Pike Place Market early in the morning (it’s kinda like church for me) and see what’s fresh and yummy looking. It’s usually one or two ingredients that strike me and get my juices (or should that be broths?) flowing. I run into old friends, chat up the farmers, sample a few of thei... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1230435 Thu, 14 Feb 2008 00:04:47 +0100 1230435 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1218317&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F231509690%2F That may not be unheard of according to a clinical study of a team headed by the international Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research (LICR): What if we could prevent cancer recurrence for years after surgery by giving simple recall injections every two or three years? …has shown that a vaccine against a protein found in cancer cells produces an immune response that can be boosted and strengthened with additional vaccine shots. Patients with resected non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) were treated with this investigational agent, also known as an Antigen-Specific Cancer Immunotherapeutic (ASCI), in another clinical study conducted by GlaxoSmithKline. The results showed a reduction in risk of cancer recurrence in these patients, a finding that prompted GlaxoSmithKline to initiate the larges... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1218317 Fri, 08 Feb 2008 10:08:26 +0100 1218317 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1212340&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F230245772%2F Uganda is one among a few developing countries lined up to benefit from the first cervical cancer vaccine trial project to be implemented by the Programme for Appropriate Technology in Health (PATH). PATH is a non governmental organisation hoping to come up with a cervical cancer vaccine by year 2010. Young women in India, Peru, Uganda, and Vietnam will become the first in the developing world to live without fear of cervical cancer-as PATH and our partners begin pilot introduction of new vaccines for the disease,” reads a statement on the organisation’s website. In 2005, cancer killed approximately 14,000 people in Uganda. 8,000 of those were under the age of 70. Of the various cancers, cervical cancer remains the most common cancer killing women in Uganda according to the Wor... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1212340 Wed, 06 Feb 2008 11:50:18 +0100 1212340 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1207264&cid=t_103440_122_f&fid=35056&url=http%3A%2F%2Frenegadeneurologist.com%2Fstudy-finds-high-levels-of-chemicals-in-infants-using-baby-cosmetics%2F Babies exposed to lotion, shampoo and powder had more than four times the level of phthalates in their urine as those whose parents had not used the products. Previous research found that the substances altered the childrens hormones. From Los Angeles Times Infants and toddlers exposed to baby lotions, shampoos and powders carry high concentrations of hormone-altering chemicals in their bodies that might have reproductive effects, according to a new scientific study of babies born in Los Angeles and two other U.S. cities. The research, to be published today in the medical journal Pediatrics, found that as the use of baby care products rose, so did the concentration of phthalates, which are used in many fragrances. The lead scientist in the study, Dr. Sheela Sathyanarayana of the University... Renegade Neurologist - A Blog by David Perlmutter, MD, FACN blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1207264 Tue, 05 Feb 2008 22:14:08 +0100 1207264 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1187255&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F225558102%2F Before it was an aspirin a day keeps the heart doctor away. Now, according to a study published in Gastroenterology (the official journal of the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) Institute), the use of regular, long-term aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) reduces the risk associated with colorectal cancer. According to Andrew T. Chan, MD, MPH, Massachusetts General Hospital and lead author of the study: “While the results of our study show that aspirin should not currently be recommended for the chemoprevention of colorectal cancer in a healthy population, there is a need for further studies to help identify for which patients the potential benefits outweigh the risks. We also need to improve our understanding of how aspirin works to prevent and i... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1187255 Wed, 30 Jan 2008 00:00:10 +0100 1187255 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1184760&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F224881823%2F Last week, came out interesting new findings on ovarian cancer. New developments revealed that cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption do not have an effect on ovarian cancer risk. However, caffeine intake may lower the risk of developing ovarian cancer, particularly in women not using hormones. Such were the findings published in the March 1, 2008 issue of CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society. There was no association between current or past smoking and ovarian cancer risk, however smoking status, duration, and pack-years were significantly associated with risk of mucinous tumors, a rare form of ovarian cancer. The authors also found no association between alcohol consumption and ovarian cancer risk. However they observed an inverse trend of risk with total caf... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1184760 Tue, 29 Jan 2008 00:00:56 +0100 1184760 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1176219&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F222582280%2F According to a study that appeared online in the January 22 issue of Lancet Oncology, patients taking Nexavar® (sorafenib) need to be carefully monitored and treated. In clinical testing, Nexavar improved overall survival by 44 percent among people with HCC. Median overall survival was 10.7 months among those treated with the drug, versus 7.9 months among those who took a placebo. This was considered a major inroad against one of the most voracious cancers. Nexavar is also being assessed to treat small-cell lung cancer, prostate cancer and melanoma.Earlier trials, however, had shown a 16 percent to 42.6 percent incidence of hypertension in patients taking the drug. If not properly controlled, hypertension can lead to strokes and heart attacks, as well as kidney failure. For this paper, re... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1176219 Fri, 25 Jan 2008 00:00:41 +0100 1176219 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1174837&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2008%2F01%2F24%2Fno-more-mercury-in-mascara-in-minnesota%2F Michele’s mystery: Recent articles in the news claim Mercury in mascaras eyeliners, and other beauty products cause neurological damage. What is the Beauty Brains take on this? Do you know which brands are the offenders? Left Brain’s metallic remarks: With all the chemical scares propagated by fear-mongering, non-science based groups like the Environmental Working Group and the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, it’s a wonder anyone still buys cosmetics. It’s also not surprising that legislators react by creating useless laws that are not likely to have a real impact on our health. Last month’s scare chemical was lead in your lipstick. This month, it’s mercury in your mascara. Lawmakers in the great state of Minnesota banned it from mascara, skin-lightening c... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1174837 Thu, 24 Jan 2008 12:34:20 +0100 1174837 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1142789&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F214472762%2F According to Wildon Farwell, M.D., of the Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System and colleagues, patients that are on cholesterol-lowering drugs – statins – may be at a lower risk for developing cancer — especially lung and colorectal cancers. Statin users had a reduced risk of all cancer types compared with non-statin users. The incidence of cancer was 9.4 percent among statin users and 13.2 percent among non-statin users. “Our findings support the hypothesis that statins may reduce the risk of cancer, in particular lung and colorectal cancers. This relationship may be affected by the [statin dose],” the authors write. While it is not known if statins can directly prevent cancer, they may inhibit growth of cancer cells – at least according to lab studies. Find m... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1142789 Thu, 10 Jan 2008 16:01:08 +0100 1142789 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1142707&cid=t_103440_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F214411038%2F Israel’s Teva Pharmaceuticals, the world’s largest generics maker, plans to invest over $1 billion in India over the next two years to acquire Indian drug companies and set up manufacturing facilities, The Business Standard reports. Around $250 million to $300 million will be used to establish manufacturing facilities and the rest to fund acquisitions in India. A few weeks ago, Teva had acquired over 100 acres of land near Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, to set up API manufacturing facilities that will match the production capacity of domestic generic majors such as Ranbaxy, Cipla, Dr Reddy’s, Sun Pharma and Wockhardt, sources told the paper. Work would start at the site after government clearance is obtained. “Teva considers India an interesting geographical region and is looking to bro... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1142707 Thu, 10 Jan 2008 13:37:59 +0100 1142707 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1141024&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F214242047%2F The Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida is seeking patients who have primary liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) that has spread to other organs or is too advanced to be treated by surgery and must have had prior chemotherapy treatments. The said patients are being recruited by Moffitt for the phase II study of the oral medication AZD6244 — an experimental anti-cancer drug that may stop the growth of cancer cells and is designed to block the pathway of a protein called MEK (important for cell survival). According to Dr. Chris R. Garrett, principal investigator with Moffitt’s Gastrointestinal Oncology program: “There’s no cure for advanced liver cancer that’s not amenable to surgery. We’re looking for a novel therapy to improve the outcome for patients with the disea... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1141024 Thu, 10 Jan 2008 07:14:45 +0100 1141024 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1136794&cid=t_103440_122_f&fid=35056&url=http%3A%2F%2Frenegadeneurologist.com%2Flink-added-to-pesticide-parkinsons-chain%2F From MedPage Today Exposure to pesticides increases the risk of Parkinson’s disease by about 70%, researchers here reported. Action Points Explain to interested patients that mounting evidence appears to implicate certain pesticides used in agriculture and for home insect control in the development of Parkinson’s disease, although the reasons for the association are still not known. Inform patients that pesticide exposure can manifest as respiratory problems, gastrointestinal disease, headache, dizziness, confusion, skin problems, eye problems, and many other nonspecific conditions. Among more than 140,000 men and women followed through 2001 as part of a cancer prevention study, those who reported being exposed to pesticides or herbicides before 1982 had a 70% higher rate of Pa... Renegade Neurologist - A Blog by David Perlmutter, MD, FACN blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1136794 Tue, 08 Jan 2008 22:19:19 +0100 1136794 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1129518&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F210922900%2F This study demonstrates that the benefits of short-term hormonal therapy for men receiving radiation therapy for prostate cancer far outweigh the risks. While four months of hormonal therapy isn’t enough to cause significant side effects, we found that it can delay the development of bone metastasis by as many as eight years, which is very significant. So by taking a little bit of hormonal therapy early, patients may avoid having to take a lot of it later.” The study is published online January 2 in the Journal of Clinical Oncology. Find more details from American Society of Clinical Oncology. Share This (Source: Cancer Commentary) Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1129518 Fri, 04 Jan 2008 05:06:23 +0100 1129518 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1121676&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2007%2F12%2F29%2Femu-oil-beneficial-or-bird-brained%2F Leah loves to learn: I recently purchased this reportedly “wonderful” Emu Oil on ebay and, whilst waiting for it to arrive, I am curious as to whether there is any scientific basis to back up the claims made about it. Apparently it’s amazing both in the fight against acne and as a moisturiser. To me, that sounds like a contradictory sentence. The Right Brain gives her the bird: Emu oil is made from the fat of the second largest bird in the world, Dromaius novaehollandiae, better known as the Australian emu. What’s the first largest bird, you ask? Who do you think we are, The Bird Brains?? Seriously though, the Australian aborigines have supposedly used emu oil for centuries for treating burns, cuts, and other wounds. Let’s take a closer look at this miracle bird oil... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1121676 Sat, 29 Dec 2007 17:53:55 +0100 1121676 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1118271&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F206902926%2F A new experimental drug has been found by Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) Cancer Institute researchers to be effective against a highly resistant mutation in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). The said new drug candidate - SGX393 - has been found to inhibit most resistant mutations — including T315I — both in mouse models and in patient cells in laboratory studies. This drug candidate could build on the legacy of Gleevec, which has been the gold standard for treating this leukemia and was developed by Brian Druker, M.D., director of the OHSU Cancer Institute. Despite Gleevec’s success, some CML patients develop resistance to Gleevec, often due to mutations that interfere with drug binding. The second-generation drugs Sprycel and Tasigna have been developed as large... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1118271 Thu, 27 Dec 2007 07:50:46 +0100 1118271 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1098926&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F201532562%2F In this study, 14 extracts were found to be active in inhibiting prostate cancer cells. The findings - active extracts from Ganoderma lucidum were found to be the most effective in inhibiting the function of the androgen receptor and controlling vital development of cancerous cells – is a new, interesting and very promising development in the fight against cancer. Find more details from the University of Haifa. Share This (Source: Cancer Commentary) Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1098926 Mon, 17 Dec 2007 08:23:28 +0100 1098926 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1097503&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F201130924%2F Speaking of breast cancer… Previously popular treatments – i.e. big-dose chemotherapy – apparently are of no help against breast cancer. Such were the findings recently reported by a group of Houston researchers. A grueling and controversial breast cancer treatment that was popular in the late 1980s and the 1990s does not extend the lives of patients in advanced stages of the disease In releasing their report on a review of existing studies, the researchers said women who received high-dose chemotherapy, followed by transplants from their own bone marrow, fared no better than patients on other therapies. Donald Berry, head of quantitative studies at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and the review’s lead investigator, said: “This shows more is not ne... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1097503 Sun, 16 Dec 2007 11:00:46 +0100 1097503 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1088870&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F199095375%2F The targeted cancer pill – Gleevec - has been approved for the treatment of gastrointestinal stromal tumors, pediatric CML, as well as five additional rare cancers. While it has been reported to have saved more than 100,000 lives, Gleevec is now saving more children with a dire leukemia (Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL) ), as well as preventing disease progression with long term use in adults with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Such were the data reported by Oregon Health & Science University (OSHU) at the recent annual meeting of the American Society of Hematology: “Data at this weekend’s meeting continues to show how much Gleevec has completely changed the outlook for so many, many patients facing cancer. Researchers delivered news that G... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1088870 Wed, 12 Dec 2007 09:31:10 +0100 1088870 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1083002&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F197918484%2F We already know that smokers have a higher risk of developing lung cancer. However, smokers and non-smokers alike may be able to substantially reduce the risk of developing lung cancer by simply eating four or more servings of green salad a week and working in the garden once or twice a week. Such were the findings of researchers at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center. According to Michele R. Forman, Ph.D., lead author of the study and a professor in M. D. Anderson’s Department of Epidemiology: “This is the first risk prediction model to examine the effects of diet and physical activity on the possibility of developing lung cancer. The data are from an ongoing M. D. Anderson case-control lung cancer study involving more than 3,800 participants. Separate epidemi... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1083002 Mon, 10 Dec 2007 07:38:15 +0100 1083002 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1081640&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F197165130%2F I’ve blogged on and on above the beneficial effects of a fruits-and-vegetable-rich diet against cancer. Though the effects are not immediate, in the long run, such diet has a role on cancer prevention. Now, there is new evidence for the protective effects of fruits and vegetables. Researchers presented at the American Association for Cancer Research’s Sixth Annual International Conference on Frontiers in Cancer Prevention, new data that demonstrate how diets full of raw vegetables –particularly broccoli sprouts — and black raspberries could prevent or slow the growth of some common forms of cancer. You will have to read the full article from Science Daily, but the highlights are the following: Black raspberries modulate markers of oxidative stress in patients with Barr... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1081640 Sat, 08 Dec 2007 14:49:46 +0100 1081640 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1075148&cid=t_103440_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F196223872%2F The medicine cabinet in the average US home is filling with drugs made in China, and some experts say that could be a prescription for trouble, writes The Kansas City Star. China’s booming pharmaceutical industry has doubled exports to the US in the past five years, undercutting competitors and making American consumers reliant on the safety of Chinese factories and captive to any disruptions in trade relations. And while this might seem like merely a trade issue, industry experts in Europe and the US say that national security concerns are edging into the debate. Consider this scenario: If a major anthrax attack were to occur in the US — larger than the one in 2001, when five people died — the pharma companies that make the two antibiotics most suitable for treatment, Cipro and dox... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1075148 Thu, 06 Dec 2007 18:35:24 +0100 1075148 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1072508&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F195558509%2F The powerful anti-cancer drug imatinib (Gleevec™) has been re-engineered by researchers at Rice University and the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center. Developed by Novartis Pharmaceuticals, Gleevec is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), Philadelphia-chromosome positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia and GIST. The drug targets two proteins that have been linked with cancer. One of its targets is the C-Kit kinase, a protein that has been tied to gastrointestinal cancer, and another is Bcr-Abl kinase, a key protein controlling CML. Not just for kicks, mind you, but to more specifically target one type of cancer while potentially curbing a rare life-threatening cardiotoxic side effect. In a new study, it has been ... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1072508 Wed, 05 Dec 2007 15:13:58 +0100 1072508 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1070962&cid=t_103440_117_f&fid=34808&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebeautybrains.com%2F2007%2F12%2F05%2Fare-your-cosmetics-left-or-right-handed%2F Lisa’s curious about chirality: I recently learned about products that are chiral. They do sound more beneficial (since I now understand chirality), but does that necessarily mean that the other products that don’t claim to be chiral are no good? The Left Brain’s leftist reply: You must be taking Organic Chemistry right now if you’ve learned what chirality means. It’s an interesting concept and one that this particular Beauty Brain had a difficult time grasping. Let me explain for the benefit of the rest of our community. What is chirality? Chirality essentially means that an object can’t be superimposed on its own mirror image. The easiest way to think about it is to look at your hands. They’re the same size and shape, right? But you can’t put your left han... thebeautybrains.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1070962 Wed, 05 Dec 2007 05:02:14 +0100 1070962 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1058460&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F192312880%2F We know how green tea has become popular for its anti-cancer ingredients. Now, Moffitt Cancer Center is looking for volunteers/participants in a green tea study: Moffitt Cancer Center is looking to recruit and treat 240 men and evaluate safety and effectiveness of Polyphenon E, a drug developed from green tea, in preventing the progression of early signs of prostate cancer. The goal is to also assess if Polyphenon E reduces urinary tract symptoms that men experience with this condition. The following male participants are needed: between the ages of 30 and 80 have had a biopsy-proven high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN) have no prior history of other cancers (other than nonmelanoma skin cancer) have no history of liver disease have the ability to take the study drug and ... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1058460 Thu, 29 Nov 2007 10:21:05 +0100 1058460 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1049094&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F190478238%2F CBD, a compound found in Cannabis Sativa (or marijuana) may prove to be effective in helping stop the spread of breast cancer cells throughout the body. Such were the findings by scientists at the California Pacific Medical Center Research Institute. CBD could be the first non-toxic agent to show promise in treating metastatic forms of breast cancer. According to Sean D. McAllister, Ph.D., a cancer researcher at CPMCRI and the lead author of the study: “Right now we have a limited range of options in treating aggressive forms of cancer. Those treatments, such as chemotherapy, can be effective but they can also be extremely toxic and difficult for patients. This compound offers the hope of a non-toxic therapy that could achieve the same results without any of the painful side effects.” ... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1049094 Mon, 26 Nov 2007 02:03:48 +0100 1049094 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1048755&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F190060954%2F According to a new study in mice (led by Zhenhua Liu from Tufts University), moderate deficiency of folate, riboflavin, and vitamins B6 and B12 together may promote the risk of DNA damage and increase the risk of colorectal cancers. The researchers, led by Zhenhua Liu from Tufts University, studied the Wnt pathway - a cellular signalling pathway linked to more than 85 per cent of colon cancers - and found that mild depletion of all four B vitamins was needed to promote the risk of tumour formation. Previously, studies have suggested that folate deficiency alone may promote the risk of colorectal cancer. The new research suggests a more complex interaction. However, the subject of folate and colorectal cancer is controversial, however, with some studies reporting that the B-vitamin may in f... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1048755 Sun, 25 Nov 2007 02:41:15 +0100 1048755 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1046824&cid=t_103440_136_f&fid=36051&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FCancerCommentary%2F%7E3%2F189247175%2F This study shows that this new class of drugs is a critical advance toward meeting that need. The last five to ten years have been the most wonderful time to be a physician treating multiple myeloma, thanks to advances like lenalidomide. Twenty, thirty years ago, there wasn’t much we could do for these patients. We couldn’t really treat the disease effectively so we tried to treat the symptoms with only two or three types of chemotherapy and radiation, which of course have their own negative side-effects. Now, we have this new, highly effective class of drugs with very low side effects. Before, we hoped for a positive response in patients. Now, we expect one. Thanks to new agents like lenalidomide, we’ve been able to convert this disease from a killer to more of a chronic... Cancer Commentary blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1046824 Fri, 23 Nov 2007 09:48:39 +0100 1046824