An Accidental Leap Beyond Time

An Accidental Leap Beyond Time: Mark Twain’s Sojourn to 2023

Since my arrival in San Francisco, many whispered rumors have tickled my aging ears that I could hardly believe, let alone transcribe. But, dear reader, this present tale I dare to recount is neither a jest nor another of my tall tales.

One evening, as the fog enveloped our golden city, a rather mysterious telegram arrived on my desk. It bore the insignia of my esteemed friend and imaginative genius, H.G. Wells. The words, however, had the urgency of a house ablaze. It read:

“Samuel, cease all engagements and come hither to Los Angeles. The ideas I’ve been working on, the time traveling tales we spoke about, and the details I have been weaving are no longer restrained by ink and paper. Alongside my friend Nikola Tesla, I’ve breathed life into them. Prepare to defy the bonds of time.” Signed Herbert

Herbert, with all his fancies, had always held a grip on my curiosity. But this—this was fantastical even for him! Nikola Tesla, the genius capable of harnessing lightning itself, collaborating with Herbert? The notion had me clumsily racing to my wardrobe even as I speculated.

If their joint endeavor was half as grand as their independent triumphs, Los Angeles was soon to bear witness to history.

By first light, my bags were packed somewhat haphazardly, with wrinkles, soil, and all. I had no time for laundry. I imagined Herbert, with his piercing eyes and wild hair, sketching out a machine not of this world, while Nikola, with his methodical precision, brought every line and curve to life. A time machine, they called it. I chuckled at the thought. But if any men were to challenge the very fabric of time, it would be these two.

En route to the train station, the city seemed to blur. Horse and buggy clattered, children played, and the salty wind tousled my hair. But my mind was consumed by the future—or was it the past?

I pondered on the implications. Could one venture to the days of Moses or witness Caesar’s last breath? Or perhaps venture forward to see if San Francisco would ever grow taller than its beloved hills.

Later the next day, after arriving in Los Angeles, I dropped off my bags at the hotel I headed over to the laboratory of my friends Herbert and Nikola. Upon entry, I laid my eyes upon a vast and chaotic mix of wires, coils, and odd contraptions, whereby I was greeted with a sight most splendid. There, amidst a whirlwind of sparks and steam, stood the Time Machine. More magnificent than even my wildest imagination, it was both regal and otherworldly.

Herbert, seeing my bewilderment, stepped forward, his face illuminated by the machine’s glow. “Samuel,” he exclaimed, clutching my arm, shaking my hand wildly with both hands, “we’ve done it! We’re on the cusp of rewriting the very annals of history!”

Nikola, ever the reserved soul, smiled with his boyish grin and said, “It’s still in its infancy, but the prospects are… limitless.”

As I gazed at the fantastical contraption, the weight of the moment settled upon me. Here, in this humble laboratory, time’s very essence was being toyed with. And, as is the spirit of our age, the boundaries of what was known were once again being pushed, dared, and defied.

The next morning, after a well-deserved dinner, a few too many celebratory libations, and a night of fitful sleep, I arrived early at the lab located just around the corner from the Hollenbeck Hotel where I was staying. The monolithic structure of the Time Machine soon dwarfed my presence. It stood there, a beacon of bronze and shimmering light, radiating an energy that was almost palpable.

Herbert approached me with a gleam in his eyes. “Ready for an adventure, Samuel?”

Nikola, adjusting a few dials and observing the various gauges, cautioned, “It’s still experimental. The journey might not be as… smooth as one would hope.”

But what journey had ever been smooth for men like us? The very essence of adventure is the unpredictable, the unknown. I nodded, eagerness trumping any latent apprehension.

After a brief instruction—mostly by Nikola, with Herbert enthusiastically interjecting—we stepped into the capsule. The interior was surprisingly spacious, adorned with red velvet seats and intricate brass controls. A large glass portal allowed us to peer into the void we were about to plunge into.

With a final check, Nikola activated the machine. A hum, low and rhythmic at first, began to reverberate. The walls of the lab began to blur, melting into a whirl of colors. My stomach lurched, and for a moment, I felt weightless.

When the whirlwind subsided, I stumbled out, only to be met with a sight most bewildering. Before us lay Los Angeles, but not the one we just left. No, it was grander, a bit more modern, with structures reaching higher into the heavens. Horse and their carriages were somewhat fewer and interspersed with metal contraptions dodging people, beasts, and the occasional Red Car on rails in the middle of smooth concrete thoroughfares stretching as far as the eye could see.

“It worked!” Herbert exclaimed, his face reflecting pure ecstasy. “We’ve journeyed thirty years into the future!”

Nikola, ever observant, remarked, “Look at the technology. It’s advanced, but there’s a familiarity to it. We might not be too far ahead.”

As Herbert and I explored this new world, Nikola stayed behind with the contraption to tinker, to do what he does best. At each passing moment, it became evident that our world had changed. We marveled at the gadgets, the updated architecture, and the tales of a world that had endured what was called ‘The Great War’, and yet had advancement continued in ways unimaginable in such a short time.

However, after just a couple of days, our sojourn was cut short. Nikola sent a young man to summon Herbert and me back to the lab. He had noticed our grand carriage, the Time Machine, starting to flicker. “The machine’s stability in foreign timelines is uncertain. We must return before we’re stranded,” he warned.

So we climbed back into our vessel, and with another dizzying whirl, we were back in the familiar surroundings of our 1893 lab.

Catching my breath, I turned to my companions. “Gentlemen, we’ve not only witnessed history but leaped into it, danced with it! The tales I can weave, the stories I can tell…”

Herbert, resting a hand on my shoulder, whispered, “Slow down my good friend, remember the responsibility that comes with such knowledge. The future is a delicate tapestry, one we’ve been privileged to glimpse, but not meddle with.”

Nikola nodded in agreement, “The Time Machine will remain an experiment for now, a testament to human ingenuity but not a toy to meddle with the course of history.”

And so, with a heavy heart but a mind brimming with tales, I returned to the hotel for the night to retire. The next morning, I would pack my bags for my journey back home.

Upon arriving back home in San Francisco, I knew there was no way I would look at the world the same way again. Days turned into weeks, and weeks turned into months, ticking by, marked by a weaving and a whirlwind of scribbles in my journal, late nights, and endless smoke from my faithful pipe. The story had to be told, even if masked as fiction. However, as I ventured deeper into my memories, the weight of Herbert’s words settled upon me. Maybe some things truly are better left unsaid.

The line between my responsibilities as a storyteller and the dangers of revealing too much became a tightrope. I could not, in good conscience, reveal all that we had seen. But to withhold such wondrous experiences felt equally disheartening. This was torture for me.

Then, one evening, as the sun’s orange hue painted San Francisco’s horizon, there was a knock at my door. It was Herbert, with a familiar, mischievous glint in his eyes. He held up a freshly printed manuscript, the title of which read, “The Time Machine.”

“I’ve penned it down, Samuel,” he declared. “A tale, inspired by our adventure, but abstracted enough to remain in the realms of fantasy.”

Curiosity piqued, I invited him in, and we sat by the hearth, with him reading aloud. The tale was fantastical, as was expected of Herbert. It spoke of a Time Traveler, his journey to the distant future, and his encounters with the Eloi and the Morlocks.

It was our adventure but through the lens of Herbert’s unparalleled imagination and a journey much further into the future. He had masterfully blended the truth with fiction, creating a tapestry that was as captivating as it was cautionary.

Upon finishing, Herbert looked at me expectantly. “What do you think?”

“I believe,” I began, pausing to puff my pipe, “that you’ve managed to encapsulate the essence of our journey, without exposing the world to its dangers, yet disguising its existence. Brilliant way to hide the truth in plain sight. Bravo my good man, it’s a masterpiece.”

He sighed in relief, “I wanted to honor our experience, but I also understood the weight of the truth. This,” he gestured to the manuscript, “is a safe middle ground.”

Our conversation drifted into the smoke-filled night, discussing the implications of our journey, the marvels of the future, and the responsibility we bore.

As dawn broke, we headed off to breakfast, where Herbert convinced me to come back to Los Angeles with him to see the work that Nikola had been continuing in the lab. Something Herbert had forgotten to mention in his excitement of his most recent publication.

A couple of days later, we arrived back in Los Angeles at the dimly lit laboratory where Nikola was sitting back leisurely admiring this updated version of the fabulous contraption we had taken for a ride into the next century. With Herbert and Nikola standing by, Samuel sat eagerly atop this updated machine that was more compact and sleeker than the whimsical contraption that they had previously used to travel into the future. The plan was simple: a quick trip back to 1923, a mere glimpse again into the future. But, as with all adventures, things rarely go according to plan.

The world shifted, and with a blinding flash, this time all alone, Samuel found himself on a bustling street, surrounded by metal beasts on wheels. But this time was different. Completely different and unfamiliar. A world devoid of horses, carriages, bonnets, and tophats. And the most magnificent structures towering buildings of concrete, glass, and steel. He quickly realized the grave error: the machine had flung him into 2023, not 1923.

Los Angeles stood tall and proud, but to Samuel, it looked alien. Vast digital screens loomed overhead, flashing images faster than the blink of an eye. People roamed with curious devices held to their ears or in their hands, seemingly talking to themselves.

His initial awe soon turned to a sinking feeling. Curiosity led him to the Los Angeles Central Library. Here, he met Paige Turner, a librarian with kind eyes and an ironic name, given the times. With her help, Samuel spent endless days at a computer terminal, delving deep into the world of the internet. The discoveries he made painted a grim picture for the traditionalists in him.

AI systems, like ‘WriteRight’ and ‘Artistic Ally,’ not only assisted writers and artists but were beginning to replace them. The visual arts weren’t spared either, with software such as ‘Visual Virtuoso’ replicating masterpieces with frightening accuracy.

The horror he felt was palpable. In this new world, the roles of writers, inventors, and artists seemed superfluous. The unique human touch, the stroke of genius, appeared endangered. As someone who’d spent a lifetime weaving tales and critiquing society, this future appeared bleak.

With Paige as his guide, he traversed this unfamiliar world. Between dinners and strolls, they discussed how AI contrasted with inventions of the past. The printing press, the steam engine, electricity – all revolutionary, yet they created opportunities. Here, AI threatened to eliminate the need for human creativity and labor altogether.

“What do folks do with their time now, with machines doing all the work?” Samuel queried one evening.

Paige looked thoughtful. “Many still work, but not out of necessity. There’s a movement towards pursuing passions, learning, or even just leisure. But it’s not all rosy. There’s a struggle to find meaning and purpose.”

The Universal Needs Guarantee, formerly referred to as UBI(Universal Basic Income), had been instituted. All of mankind’s basic needs – food, shelter, clothing, education, and healthcare – were now orchestrated by an intricate web of AI-managed systems. With no labor required, many sought meaning through spiritual, educational, and recreational avenues. Yet, a lingering emptiness remained for many.

Samuel mulled over it, “Since the dawn of time, man has been defined by his work. Take that away, and the soul yearns for purpose.”

As days turned to weeks, Samuel grew fonder of Paige. Their bond deepened over shared stories and experiences. Yet, the weight of his discovery and the ache of the world he left behind tugged at his heartstrings.

One fateful evening, as they sat overlooking the Los Angeles skyline, Samuel confessed, “I’ve seen wonders and horrors in equal measure here. I fear for the writers and artists. But there’s hope. Humanity has a knack for finding its way.”

Paige smiled, “You’re a relic of a time long gone, Mr. Clemens. Yet, you’ve adapted. That’s the spirit of mankind.”

The day of his departure arrived. With a heavy heart and a promise to remember Paige, Samuel returned to Nikola’s lab, praying the machine would work in reverse.

He arrived with a jolt. The room was as he left it – Herbert and Nikola still adjusting the machine, unaware he’d been gone.

Samuel, with tales of a future both wondrous and disconcerting, knew he had stories to tell. With a newfound appreciation for the written word and the human touch, he penned his experiences, weaving cautionary tales for future generations.

As for Paige Turner, she remained in 2023, with memories of a writer from the past, hoping that despite the advancements, humanity would never lose its essence.

Nikola’s lab was awash in the same dim glow, but to Samuel, it now seemed too archaic, too rudimentary. The familiar scents of oil and singed metal did little to calm his racing heart.

Herbert approached, his face lit with excitement. “Ready for the jump to 1923?”

Samuel hesitated, “We need to talk.”

Over the course of hours, Samuel narrated his unexpected adventure. He spoke of the towering glass buildings, the technological marvels, and the AIs capable of creating art and literature that rivaled human genius.

Nikola, who had always been a visionary, looked both intrigued and perturbed. “Such a future is both a dream and a nightmare,” he mused. “Our inventions meant to enhance human life, not replace the very essence of it.”

Samuel nodded, “That’s precisely it. In trying to make life easier, we’ve inadvertently set a course that might make the human touch obsolete.”

Herbert, ever the futurist, remarked, “Isn’t that the progression of things? Horse-drawn carriages gave way to trains. Trains to automobiles. Each invention brought about change, often rendering previous professions obsolete. However, there’s a difference between augmenting human capacity and completely overshadowing it.”

Samuel remembered his discussions with Paige. “People in that time have more leisure, more resources. But many grapple with a deep-seated emptiness. The pursuit of passions becomes challenging when machines can do it better.”

The three men sat in contemplative silence, the weight of the implications pressing upon them.

Herbert finally broke the silence, “Perhaps, we can’t halt progress, but we can guide it. If your tale is any indication, Samuel, we need to ensure that technology remains a tool, not a master.”

Samuel agreed, “AI, like all tools, is as good or bad as its use. It’s our responsibility to define its boundaries.”

Nikola, rolling up his sleeves, declared, “Then let’s start with this machine. We need to ensure such accidental journeys don’t occur. And who knows? Maybe we can find a way to balance human essence with machine efficiency.”

The days that followed saw the trio deeply engrossed in their work. Samuel, though not an inventor, provided insights and shared his experiences, guiding their vision. Herbert penned speculative pieces, cautioning about unchecked advancements, while Nikola tinkered with his inventions, ensuring they augmented human capabilities without replacing them.

As time wore on, Samuel often thought of Paige. He wondered if, in that sprawling future city, she remembered a man out of time. He penned letters he couldn’t send and stories inspired by their shared moments.

One day, while rummaging through Nikola’s workshop, Samuel found a peculiar object. It was a small device, not unlike the ones he’d seen in 2023, with an emblem that read “Paige’s Library.”

Curious, he activated it. To his surprise, a holographic image of Paige materialized. “Dearest Samuel,” her projection began, “I suspected you might find this. Consider it a parting gift, a way for me to share my world with you.”

The device contained snippets of Paige’s life, her stories, and her experiences in 2023. Samuel was once again reminded of the duality of the future – the wonder of connection and the danger of losing oneself.

The journey to 2023 became a cornerstone in Samuel’s writings. The experience shaped his narratives, urging readers to value the human spirit amidst the march of progress.

Years later, as Samuel settled into the twilight of his life, he often pondered the dance of destiny. While he cherished his time with Nikola and Herbert and the revolutionary ideas they birthed, it was the memory of a librarian named Paige Turner in a future not his own that warmed his heart the most.

Samuel’s later years were marked by profound introspection and prolific writing. His tales of 2023 resonated deeply, not just as speculative fiction but as cautionary tales. With every penned word, he urged society to tread the path of advancement with caution and mindfulness.

As the years rolled by, Samuel became a beacon of wisdom for the literary world, his experiences lending a unique perspective. His writings began influencing thought leaders, educators, and even budding inventors. Universities invited him to speak, eager to hear firsthand about the world he had glimpsed.

On one such occasion, a young student asked, “Mr. Clemens, given the chance, would you venture to the future again?”

Samuel, his eyes distant yet twinkling, replied, “Son, every day is a venture into the future. It’s not about witnessing the marvels; it’s about shaping them.”

His bond with Nikola and Herbert deepened, the shared secret of the accidental journey drawing them closer. Nikola, inspired by Samuel’s tales, began working on projects that aimed at harmonizing technology with the human spirit. He believed in creating machines that could understand and respect human emotions rather than merely replicating tasks.

Herbert, ever the storyteller, collaborated with Samuel on a series of novels that painted vivid pictures of futures both utopian and dystopian, drawing from the experiences and insights of their friend. Their joint works became instant classics, studied and dissected by generations of readers and scholars.

But amidst the whirlwind of lectures, writings, and inventions, Samuel’s heart often wandered back to those quiet evenings in Los Angeles, the city lights shimmering, with Paige by his side. He missed their conversations, her laughter, and the gentle way she’d introduced him to the nuances of a world he hadn’t been prepared for.

One winter evening, as snow gently blanketed his Connecticut home, there came a soft knock on the door. Samuel, expecting no one, opened it to find a familiar face, albeit older.

“Paige?” he exclaimed, disbelief evident in his voice.

With a smile that hadn’t changed over the years, she replied, “It seems, Samuel, that Herbert and Nikola weren’t the only ones tinkering with time.”

As they settled by the fireplace, Paige revealed that inspired by their time together; she’d sought out inventors in her era who had toyed with the concept of time travel. It had taken years, but she’d finally managed to embark on a one-way journey to Samuel’s time.

Over cups of hot cocoa, they reminisced and marveled at the dance of destiny. Here they were, two souls from different eras, brought together by an accident and now reunited by determination and love.

Together, over the following year, they penned a book, weaving both their perspectives into a narrative that spanned two centuries. It became a testament to the enduring human spirit, the magic of serendipity, and the power of love to transcend time.

Samuel’s later years, enriched by Paige’s presence, were marked by joy, collaboration, and profound insights. As they both grew old together, they became a living embodiment of the belief that while technology might shape the world, it’s love, connection, and shared stories that truly define the essence of humanity.

The fame of the reunited pair grew, as did the intrigue surrounding their extraordinary story. Their collaborative work was revered not just as a masterpiece of literature but also as a profound philosophical treatise that navigated the interplay between technology and humanity. Universities, societies, and even governments invited the duo to speak, eager to glean wisdom from their unique blend of experiences.

In one of their joint lectures at Yale, a student inquired, “Miss Turner, how has the transition been for you, coming from a future so advanced to an era like this?”

Paige smiled, “At first, the absence of the conveniences I was accustomed to felt overwhelming. But then, I realized that it’s not technology that defines an era, but the people and their stories. And in that, every age is rich.”

Their home in Connecticut became a haven for thinkers, writers, and inventors. Nikola, often accompanied by Herbert, would visit, and their gatherings became legendary – a melting pot of ideas, debates, and dreams of shaping a brighter future.

One summer, a young artist named Diego Rivera visited them. Inspired by their story and the interplay of time, technology, and love, he painted a mural titled “The Dance of Two Eras”. The artwork, depicting Samuel and Paige against a backdrop of transitioning centuries, became one of Rivera’s most iconic pieces.

But beyond the fame and intellectual pursuits, it was the simple moments that the couple cherished most. Morning walks by the river, quiet evenings with books, shared laughs over Samuel’s ever-present cigars and Paige’s attempts to introduce him to futuristic music on a vintage gramophone.

Yet, the passage of time, an element they had both defied in their own ways, remained relentless. As years turned to decades, age caught up with Samuel. His once-vigorous hands now trembled, and the twinkle in his eyes dimmed occasionally. But his spirit remained indomitable.

On one of his more lucid days, he turned to Paige and mused, “You know, when I first landed in your time, I felt lost. The future seemed like a desolate place for artists, thinkers, and romantics. But having you here, in my time, I’ve come to see that the heart and soul of humanity persist, no matter the age or advancement.”

Paige, her eyes glistening, replied, “Time is but a river, Samuel. It flows, it twists, it turns. But love, stories, and the essence of who we are? Those are the constants. They’re our anchors.”

Samuel passed away on a quiet spring evening with Paige by his side. His legacy, enriched by his experiences and insights from the future, left an indelible mark on literature and society.

Paige continued to honor their shared journey. She established the Twain-Turner Institute, dedicated to exploring the intersection of technology, art, and humanity. The institute became a beacon, guiding future generations on a path where technological advancement and human essence coexisted harmoniously.

As for Paige, she lived out her days cherishing the memories of a love that had defied the constraints of time. And in her heart, she held the belief that somewhere, in another time or dimension, she and Samuel would meet again.

A Better Answer For Cancer(Skin)

Sun exposure is the main risk factor for cutaneous malignant melanoma.
Melanoma is a type of cancer that usually occurs on skin that has been overexposed to the sun. The biggest environmental risk factor for developing melanoma is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. However, melanomas also occur on parts of the body that have never been exposed to the sun. Two rare and deadly forms of melanoma are not caused by sun exposure.
Skin cancer can take 20 years or more to develop.

As a physiology and disease pathology student, these three statements listed above would indicate, at least to me, in my mind, that melanoma is not caused by UV radiation but that its source is something else. That it has been growing just below the surface for many years and that the UV light exposure is a confounding factor that disturbed a slowly growing pathology that would otherwise continue to grow until another environmental factor acted upon it, resulting in its recognition as a cancerous growth.

My own suspicion is that all skin cancers, but also all soft tissue tumors(cancer) are a result of undigested complete mammalian and possibly even non-mammalian animal proteins from meat making their way into our soft tissues through a compromised intestinal(small) epithelium. What most refer to as leaky gut.

“Leaky gut” is a term that refers to increased intestinal permeability, a condition in which the lining of the small intestine becomes damaged, causing undigested food particles, toxic waste products, and bacteria to “leak” through the intestines and flood the bloodstream. This can lead to various health problems, including autoimmune reactions, inflammation, and food sensitivities.

If undigested particles of any food, not just meat, were to enter the bloodstream, a few potential events could occur:

Immune Response: The immune system would recognize these undigested particles as foreign and mount an inflammatory response against them. This can lead to symptoms of inflammation like swelling, redness, pain, and potentially fever.

Creation of Antibodies: Over time, if the same undigested particles keep entering the bloodstream, the body may start to produce antibodies against them. This is the foundation of food sensitivities or allergies. When the individual consumes that food again, even if it doesn’t enter the bloodstream, the body can react to it, thinking it’s a harmful invader.

Systemic Inflammation: Chronic exposure to foreign particles in the bloodstream can contribute to systemic inflammation, which is linked to various chronic diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative conditions.

Potential Aggravation of Autoimmune Conditions: The entry of undigested food particles into the bloodstream might also trigger or aggravate autoimmune conditions, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues.

Other Effects: While the above are the most discussed effects of a “leaky gut,” there could be other cascading impacts on metabolism, hormone balance, and even mental health due to the interconnectedness of our body’s systems.

Skin cancer statistics

What kinds of things interfere with intestinal lumen endothelial function?

What kinds of foods result in a leaky gut?

Pig lifespan 15-20 years.

Pig tissue heart valve lifespan is also 15-20 years. Neither of which does the human body reject, but actually continues to regenerate using human stem cells.

Is it possible that porcine telomeres are the limiting factors in the longevity of tissue heart valves?

Porcine(pig) heart valves are commonly used in heart valve replacement surgeries because they are biologically similar to human heart valves. When prepping these valves for implantation, the cells and other antigens that might provoke an immune response are removed. This process makes the valves less likely to be rejected by the patient’s immune system. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

1. Decellularization: Before implantation, porcine heart valves undergo a process called decellularization. This process removes cells and cellular antigens from the valve, leaving behind mostly the structural matrix. Without the cellular components, there’s a reduced risk of an immune response.

2. Cross-linking with Glutaraldehyde: After decellularization, the valves are often treated with a chemical called glutaraldehyde. This treatment further reduces antigenicity (the potential to provoke an immune response) and provides additional stability and durability to the valve.

3. Biocompatibility: The extracellular matrix that remains after these treatments is largely made up of collagen and other proteins that are very similar between pigs and humans. This similarity makes the valve more biocompatible and less likely to be seen as “foreign” by the human immune system.

4. Host Remodeling: Over time, the patient’s own cells can migrate into the implanted valve and remodel it, making it even more integrated with the patient’s body.

5. Immune Privilege of the Heart: There’s some evidence to suggest that the heart, like the eyes and the brain, might have a degree of “immune privilege.” This means that the immune system might be less aggressive in these areas, reducing the chances of rejection.

While porcine valves are less prone to immune rejection than unprocessed tissue would be, they’re not perfect. Bioprosthetic valves, including porcine valves, can deteriorate over time, requiring a replacement after a decade or two. Mechanical valves, on the other hand, can last much longer but come with other complications, such as the need for lifelong anticoagulant therapy. The choice of valve type depends on a variety of factors, including patient age, lifestyle, and overall health.

What happens to a porcine heart valve once it reaches the end of its useful health span/lifespan of 15 to 20 years?

Once a bioprosthetic heart valve, like a porcine valve, reaches the end of its useful life, it generally undergoes structural deterioration. This can be due to a combination of factors like the physical stress of a pulsatile environment, enzymatic reactions in the human body, and possible immune reactions over time.

Here are the changes and deteriorations you might observe in a porcine heart valve at the end of its useful lifetime:

1. Calcification: Over time, calcium deposits can form on the valve leaflets. Calcification can make the leaflets stiff, limiting their ability to open and close properly. This is one of the most common reasons for bioprosthetic valve failure.

2. Leaflet Tear or Rupture: The constant movement of the valve can lead to wear and tear. In some cases, the leaflets might even tear or rupture, leading to significant valve dysfunction.

3. Thickening and Fibrosis: The leaflets can become thickened or fibrotic, which can also limit their mobility and, therefore, the valve’s function.

4. Endocarditis: While not a direct result of the valve’s aging, bioprosthetic valves can sometimes become infected, a condition known as endocarditis. This can damage the valve and require its replacement.

5. Host Remodeling: As the patient’s cells infiltrate and remodel the valve over time, there can sometimes be overgrowth or other changes that impact valve function.

Once the valve shows significant deterioration and is no longer functioning properly, it poses serious health risks. Symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling in the ankles, feet, or abdomen, chest pain, or fainting can emerge or intensify.

When the valve’s function is compromised to a dangerous level, patients will need another heart valve replacement or repair surgery. Depending on the patient’s age, health status, and preferences, a subsequent bioprosthetic or mechanical valve might be chosen for the replacement.

Sweat. Where Does it Come From?

The majority of the fluids in our body reside within cells and in the spaces between cells. Broadly, the fluids in our body can be divided into two main compartments:

Intracellular fluid (ICF): This is the fluid that is contained inside our cells. It accounts for about two-thirds (roughly 66%) of the total body water in a typical human.

Extracellular fluid (ECF): This is the fluid that exists outside of our cells. It accounts for about one-third (roughly 33%) of the total body water. The extracellular fluid can be further broken down into:

Interstitial fluid: The fluid that lies between cells (in the “interstitial” spaces) and accounts for most of the ECF.
Plasma(Circulatory System): The liquid component of blood where the blood cells are suspended.
Transcellular fluid: These are small amounts of fluid contained in specific spaces, such as synovial fluid in joints, cerebrospinal fluid in the brain and spinal cord, and intraocular fluid in the eyes.

Sweat consists primarily of water (90% by volume), with 1-3% salt and 0.5-2% urea.

In a typical adult human, total body water might comprise about 60% of the body’s total weight (though this can vary based on factors like age, sex, and body composition). So, around 40% of the body’s weight is from intracellular fluid, and around 20% is from extracellular fluid.

Urea derivatives have a wide range of biological activities, including anticancer, antibacterial, and antiviral. Some urea derivatives, such as N-phenyl-N’-(2-chloroethyl)ureas (CEUs) and benzoylureas (BUs), have shown good anticancer activity. These compounds are tubulin ligands that inhibit the polymerization of tubulin.

Diarylurea is a prominent pharmacophore in anticancer drugs. This activity is due to its near-perfect binding with certain acceptors. The NH moiety acts as a hydrogen bond donor, and the urea oxygen atom acts as an acceptor.

Urea derivatives have also shown anticonvulsant, analgesic, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) elevating activities.

Sweat originates from both intracellular and extracellular fluids. Here’s how the process works:

1. Initial Formation in Sweat Glands: Sweat is primarily formed in sweat glands, which are distributed across the skin. Initially, sweat glands produce a fluid that is similar to plasma (i.e., the fluid portion of blood without the cells) but without the proteins. This initial sweat is derived from the extracellular fluid, especially the plasma.

2. Modification of Sweat: As the sweat passes through the ducts of the sweat gland, the composition of the sweat is modified. Specifically, cells in the ducts of the sweat glands reabsorb sodium and chloride ions, making the sweat hypotonic relative to plasma. To achieve this reabsorption, cells use energy and move ions against their concentration gradient. In the process, water from inside the cells (intracellular fluid) can also be drawn into the duct due to osmotic forces.

So, while the initial formation of sweat is primarily from the extracellular fluid, the modification of sweat as it passes through the sweat gland ducts can involve intracellular fluid. However, in terms of volume, the majority of the sweat comes from the extracellular compartment.

It’s worth noting that sweating is an essential mechanism for thermoregulation. As sweat evaporates from the surface of the skin, it cools the body down. Additionally, sweat also plays a role in excreting certain waste products. For those that are less active, that is, those that don’t sweat because of inactivity, the kidneys are the primary organs for excretion in the body from the body’s fluid storage.

-Michael J. Loomis & ChatGPT

And It All Starts With Giving a Shit

Nobody ever got shit to stick to a wall without first getting their hands a little dirty. And nobody ever got their hands dirty doing this without first giving a shit.

“Throwing shit at a wall until it sticks” is a common Australian saying that means if you try to attack a problem long enough and with enough varied methods, then eventually, you must make some progress.

Not everyone can be as lucky as Gary Dahl and his Pet Rock.

His idea for the Pet Rock came to him in a bar while he was listening to friends complain about their pets. Dahl joked that he had a pet that required no care or attention because it was a rock. The rock would not need to be fed, walked, bathed, or groomed, and it would not die, become sick, or be disobedient.

Dahl, an American businessman and advertising director, created the collectible toy Pet Rock in the mid-1970s. The Pet Rock was a smooth stone from Rosarito, Baja California, Mexico. Each rock came on a bed of straw with a carrying case and an instruction manual. The Pet Rock retailed for $3.95 and made Dahl a millionaire.

For the rest of us, sometimes that means that we first gotta give a shit and be willing to get our hands a little dirty.

-Michael J. Loomis

Ten Plus Ten Equals Zero?

I would like to suggest that the best way to remove mud from your face would be to apply more mud to your face. Does this make sense to you?

If not, I have a solution for you.

Are you a fan of detoxification programs and protocols promoted by a favorite health influencer/guru/personality? Things like herbs and other homeopathic remedies? Homeopathy is treating disease with minute doses of natural substances that, in a healthy person, would produce symptoms of disease. It is an alternative medicine based on the theory of treating ‘like with like.’

As in, you are treating toxins within the body that result in disease by adding more toxins to the body in an attempt to remove toxicity from the body. Trying to cure what caused your disease by adding more of what caused the disease in the first place. This would be akin to telling a chronic alcoholic that the best way to detoxify his body of alcohol would be to simply add more alcohol. Do you know of any alcohol recovery(detox) program that would suggest adding more of the offending substance is the best method of detoxification? I don’t. I couldn’t find one.

Disease(lack of ease) results from an acute or long-term build-up of toxins within the human body. Treating the body using homeopathic methods is, by definition, treating disease with ‘like’ toxins that initially caused your body to find itself in its current diseased state.

It is like trying to remove mud from your face by adding more mud to your face. Or adding ten to the number ten and expecting the answer to be zero.

Does this make sense to you?

If this does not make sense to you, you are not alone. It does not make sense to me either. Over the last six years, I’ve spent a LOT of time learning about human physiology and disease pathology to understand better how I can improve the quality of the lifetime I have been granted. Over that time, I have tried/applied many different remedies, herbs, and supplements to see what difference they would make. And after all this time, I am pretty certain they have done more for the seller’s pocketbook than they have for my general well-being.

It is becoming apparent to me that our body does not need any help doing what it is already programmed to do by default. Detoxify itself using its default mechanisms coupled with sufficient levels of water and electrolytes. Both of these natural substances are found in nature and are available to anyone who has the will to attain both water and electrolytes necessary.

Our body is a body of water. The majority of the water in the human body resides within cells. This is called intracellular fluid (ICF). About 60% of the total water in a human body is in the ICF. The remaining 40% is in the extracellular fluid (ECF), which includes the fluids between cells (interstitial fluid) and in the blood vessels (plasma). So, by volume, the majority of the water in the human body is in the intracellular compartment.

Newborns: About 78% of their body weight is water.
Adult Males: Typically around 60% of their body weight is water.
Adult Females: Typically around 50-55% of their body weight is water. This percentage is slightly lower than in males primarily due to a higher proportion of body fat in females, and fat tissue contains less water than lean tissue.
Elderly: The water content tends to decrease further with age, so older individuals may have a lower percentage of body water.

My solution to removing toxicity from the human body is a simple one, really. Adding more fluids to flush out the toxic fluids rather than adding more toxin(s).

But, of course, it needs to be done the right way, and I will explain what I have been doing to accomplish in the last paragraph or so.

Again, the human body contains a vast amount of fluid, which is divided into intracellular fluid (ICF) and extracellular fluid (ECF). The ICF is the fluid within the cells, and the ECF is the fluid outside the cells. The composition of these fluids varies because of their different roles in maintaining homeostasis.

Here’s a general breakdown:

1. Intracellular Fluid (ICF) Composition: The ICF makes up about 60% of the total body water or around 40% of an adult’s body weight. Its main electrolytes and solutes include:

Potassium (K+): High concentration
Magnesium (Mg2+): Present in moderate concentrations
Phosphates (HPO₄²⁻): High concentration
Proteins: Higher concentration compared to ECF
Sodium (Na+) and Chloride (Cl-): Lower concentrations compared to ECF

2. Extracellular Fluid (ECF) Composition: The ECF accounts for about 40% of the total body water or around 20% of an adult’s body weight. The ECF can be further divided into interstitial fluid (about 75% of ECF) and plasma (about 25% of ECF). The main electrolytes and solutes include:

Sodium (Na+): High concentration
Chloride (Cl-): High concentration
Bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻): Present in moderate concentrations
Potassium (K+), Magnesium (Mg2+), and Phosphates (HPO₄²⁻): Lower concentrations compared to ICF
Proteins: Present, especially in plasma. Albumin is a major protein in plasma.

What has been working well for me is vigorous movement and profuse sweating while replenishing the fluids used to accomplish this manner of flushing out the toxins.

I currently do this at the gym seven(7) days a week. I spend forty minutes daily doing upper and lower-body cardio using a recumbent bike and an upper-body crank cycle, also called an upper-body ergometer or handcycle. After this, I spend 30 minutes in a sauna, not a steam room, sweating profusely.

On average, an individual can lose between 0.5 to 1 liter (or about 16 to 32 ounces) of water during a 30-minute sauna session. However, in some cases, especially in very high temperatures or with prolonged exposure, the amount of sweat lost can exceed this range. So be careful(mindful).

It’s essential to recognize that a significant portion of the weight lost during a sauna session is water weight. It’s crucial to hydrate before and rehydrate after a sauna session to replace the lost fluids and electrolytes. Over time, with regular sauna use, the body may become more efficient at sweating, and an individual may notice increased sweat production. This last point has been my experience. I sweat a lot. Therefore, my solution is not to add more toxins to the body in an attempt to express excess toxins from the body but to increase the flow of fluids through the body through the skin by the mechanism of sweating profusely.

The following are seven expectations you can have if you feel so inclined to travel this road.

Cleansing and Detoxification: Sweating can help flush out substances like alcohol, cholesterol, and salt from the body. While the primary organs for detoxification are the liver and kidneys, sweating can assist in eliminating certain waste products, potentially giving the skin a clearer appearance.
Pore Cleansing: The act of sweating can help unclog pores, potentially reducing the occurrence of blackheads and acne. When sweat is released, it can help flush out the trapped dirt and oil in the pores.
Improved Circulation: Sweating can enhance blood flow. Improved circulation brings more oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells, promoting healthier skin.
Increased Production of Sebum: Sweating can stimulate the sebaceous glands, which produce sebum – the skin’s natural oil. This can help in keeping the skin moisturized.
Temperature Regulation: One of the primary functions of sweating is to regulate body temperature. By releasing sweat, which then evaporates, the body cools down. This mechanism protects the skin (and the rest of the body) from overheating.
Improved Immunity: Profuse sweating, especially in saunas or steam rooms, can lead to increased production of white blood cells, which play a critical role in the immune response.
Stress Reduction: Activities that lead to sweating, like exercise, can also reduce stress hormones. Lower stress levels can have a positive effect on skin health, reducing occurrences of conditions exacerbated by stress, such as acne or eczema.

However, it’s important to maintain a few precautions:

Always cleanse the skin after sweating to prevent the reabsorption of toxins and prevent bacterial overgrowth.
Again, ensure you stay hydrated. Profuse sweating can lead to dehydration, which can dry out the skin.
Individuals with certain skin conditions like eczema or rosacea might find that excessive sweating can, at least initially, exacerbate their symptoms. It doesn’t hurt to consult with a dermatologist regarding any skin concerns.

I am not sure that this will be a lifetime practice for me. After an undetermined initial phase of maybe six months, I may reduce this practice to four or five days weekly as a form of maintenance.

To learn more about the role of toxins in the process of disease, I’ve created a page and a video on the ‘Seven Stages of Disease.’ What you’ve just finished reading is my solution to the ‘Seven Stages of Disease.’

Be blessed my friends.

-Michael J. Loomis & ChatGPT

Cancer: Why Are We Scared Of It?

Cancer is a scary word for most people. Most at least know or have lost a loved one to cancer. As a result, it engenders a lot of mixed emotions. One of the biggest is fear, which is understandable because it is typically associated with physical pain in the individual experiencing it, but also in the friends and loved ones through emotional pain.

Over the last six(6) years, I have studied human physiology and disease pathology because of my own experiences and interactions with this BIG, scary word, cancer. As a result, I no longer fear cancer to the same level that some or most do. Fear does not fare well in the light of knowledge and understanding.

A cancer diagnosis is not the end of the world, and it is not something that happens to us as if we are a victim of it. It is a condition connected with or rooted in a biological process that has been taking place over a long period of time, usually without our knowledge.

What we call cancer is not something that is attacking us. On the contrary, it is something that is happening within us with our body’s full knowledge and wilful intent. What we call cancer is a result of our body’s continual efforts to maintain homeostasis for the overall good of us as a wonderfully created creature of creation. However, to most people, it doesn’t feel that way because we have been taught something different for many generations. I would like to dispel that myth and bring light and comfort to a world where fear has taken over in the darkness of ignorance.

Please continue to follow along with me. I’ve got a lot more to say about this…

Zinc, A Little Something to Make You Think

The incessant dance of atoms and molecules around us unfolds an undeniably beautiful ballet of nature. Among these, a wondrous metal with the atomic number 30 makes a remarkable appearance – zinc. Many of us, in the thrall of our sophisticated digital age, remain oblivious to this humble metallic actor’s cosmic journey and its vital role in the grand opera of human existence.

Zinc, our protagonist, began its journey not on our azure host(Earth), but in the boundless vastness of the cosmos, forged in the stellar crucibles of supernovae. Cosmic winds, the grand maestros of the universe, orchestrated its journey towards our solar nebula, paving the way for the conception of our beautiful planet. Upon Earth’s formation, zinc nestled deep within her bosom, hidden beneath a crust of more glamorous elements. It took the inventive curiosity of mankind in the post-stone age, roughly 5000 years ago, to excavate and mold zinc into a useful ally. We learned to alloy zinc with copper, birthing brass, and thus, stepping into the age of metallurgy, unraveling a new chapter of civilization.

Zinc doesn’t merely belong in the annals of our human history; it is an intimate participant in the pulsating rhythm of life itself. This bluish-white metal, while not as ostentatious as gold or celebrated as iron, is fundamental to our health and well-being.

Deep within our bodies, hidden from the prying eyes of our consciousness, zinc plays an unassuming but powerful role. It slips into enzymes, becoming an integral part of over 300 different types, each performing a crucial task in the symphony of our biological processes. From the division of our cells, the orchestration of our immune response, to the expression of our DNA – zinc is there, in every note, in every beat, assisting, catalyzing, and enabling.

Imagine, for a moment, life without zinc. The music of our bodily functions would descend into a dissonant cacophony. Our cells would cease to divide, our wounds would refuse to heal, and our taste and smell would abandon us, leaving us in a world bereft of sensory pleasures. The vital process of growth and development in children would falter, casting a shadow over the vibrancy of youth. Zinc deficiency can transform life into an echo of its full expression, a symphony with its vital instruments missing.

Many of us, swept away by the glitz and glamour of modern life, forget the fundamentals. We forget how the subtle dance of elements like zinc orchestrates the drama of our existence. We neglect the importance of maintaining a balanced diet, rich in zinc, leading to an unfortunate deficiency of this vital nutrient.

While we engage in intellectual pursuits and explore the realm of the abstract, we must not lose touch with the primal. We must remain grounded in our physical existence, understanding the subtle interplay of the elements that maintain our well-being. And zinc, in all its humble glory, demands our attention.

Just as zinc has found its place in the cosmic order, becoming part of stars, planets, and living organisms, it has also found a home within us. This connection, this intimate dance between the human and the elemental, is a realization of our place in the cosmos. It is a beautiful reminder that we are not merely observers of the universe, but participants, intimately connected with the cosmic dance.

So, let us celebrate zinc, this unassuming yet vital element, not just for its role in human health but also for its cosmic journey and its place in the grand opera of existence. It serves as a gentle reminder of our interconnectedness with the universe, a profound illustration of the saying, “We are stardust.” By recognizing and acknowledging the importance of elements like zinc, we are not merely caring for our health but also acknowledging our intimate connection with the cosmos.

Ensure the presence of this humble element in your diet, not only as a step towards healthy living but also as a nod to your cosmic heritage. The zinc in us and the zinc in the stars are one and the same. We are all dancing to the same symphony of existence, an ode to the universe and life itself.

Michael J. Loomis & ChatGPT

The Loomis Lichen Epithelial Cancer Hypothesis: A Simplified Summary

The essay is about an idea called the “Loomis Lichen Cancer Hypothesis” which talks about the relationship between a kind of multipartner(multicellular, multispecies) organism called lichen and humans and how it might affect human health, especially what we call cancer.

For a fuller treatment of this summary.

Firstly, what is lichen? A lichen is like a super-team or grouping of two or more tiny organisms that help each other out. This includes a fungus and a kind of algae or bacteria. Algae are like plants that live in water-based environments and bacteria are tiny, single-celled organisms. Remember, the human body is about 60% water. The lichen team is very diverse, with potentially up to 30,000 different kinds!

One kind of algae that’s important in human lichens is called Prototheca. These algae are interesting because they lack chlorophyll, which most plants and algae use to make food through photosynthesis. Instead, Prototheca feed off the organic material around them, which lets them live in lots of different environments, throughout the human body.

Now, this is where it gets a bit more complex. Some Prototheca species can cause diseases in people, especially those with weaker immune systems. They can cause skin problems or more serious diseases affecting different organs in the body. This makes them an important area to research, especially since they’ve developed resistance to some medicines used to treat infections.

Prototheca algae have some harmful compounds too. Some of these can damage our liver or nerves or cause cell death. But remember, not all algae produce toxins and those that do might not always produce them.

We have lichen living on the human body. We’re talking about real lichen that live on the skin, adapting to the changing environment of the body. These lichens come in different forms, like flat leaf-like ones or more branched, bush-like ones.

Lichens on the body also have a way to reproduce. They produce little parts that can break off and grow into new lichens elsewhere on the body. They can even make special chemicals that help them fight off other bacteria or fungi, and survive the body’s immune responses.

So, while the idea of lichens on our body might seem a bit strange, it’s actually a fascinating area of study. Understanding how these tiny organisms live and interact with us could help us understand more about our health and potentially find new ways to treat diseases.

The Loomis Lichen Epithelial Cancer Hypothesis

The Loomis Lichen Cancer Hypothesis as specifically applied to, relating to, or denoting the thin tissue forming the outer layer of a body’s surface and lining the alimentary canal and other hollow structures on and in the human body.

An Overview of the Genus Prototheca: Intricate Characteristics and Interactions with the Human Body as a Foundation for What We Currently Call Cancer.

A Simplified Summary

Lichen Diversity. There is no global list of known lichen species, but estimates vary from 13,000 to 30,000 different species. The various growth forms are described as crustose, foliose, and fruticose.

A lichen is not a single organism, but the result of a partnership (mutualistic symbiosis) between a fungus and an alga and/or cyanobacteria. A multi-partner (multicellular, multispecies) organism. Some lichens are formed of three or more partners, as mentioned. The body of a lichen consists of fungal filaments (hyphae) surrounding cells of algae(prototheca) and/or cyanobacteria.

Prototheca is a unique genus of algae that falls under the family Chlorellaceae. Unlike other algae, Prototheca species are distinct in their ability to inhabit and interact with the human body, exhibiting an intriguing blend of symbiosis and pathogenicity.

At the most fundamental level, Prototheca are achlorophyllous, meaning they lack chlorophyll and hence are incapable of photosynthesis, a trait atypical for algae. They are eukaryotic organisms characterized by their unicellular nature, distinct cell walls, and the presence of multiple organelles. Furthermore, their life cycle features both sexual and asexual stages, contributing to the robust adaptability and resilience of these organisms.

Among the different species of Prototheca, P. wickerhamii and P. zopfii are the most significant in terms of human interaction. Notably, these organisms demonstrate an unusual ability to inhabit various human body environments, both on the skin and within the internal biological system. They survive within a wide range of pH levels, temperatures, and osmotic pressures, and hence can proliferate in diverse habitats.

While some Prototheca species live harmoniously with their host, others exhibit a pathogenic relationship. Protothecosis, a rare infection caused by Prototheca, primarily affects immunocompromised individuals and may manifest as cutaneous, systemic, or disseminated diseases. Cutaneous protothecosis usually results in lesions and ulcers on the skin surface, while systemic or disseminated protothecosis can affect multiple organs, including the eyes, lymph nodes, and central nervous system.

The fact that Prototheca lacks photosynthetic machinery but retains other typical algal characteristics presents a fascinating evolutionary question. It’s hypothesized that they evolved from photosynthetic ancestors and adapted to a saprophytic lifestyle, utilizing organic material from the surrounding environment for survival. This adaptation may have paved the way for Prototheca’s transition from an external environment to a human host.

Moreover, these algae have developed resistance mechanisms against certain antifungal medications, which complicate their treatment when they cause infections. This suggests a high adaptive capacity and the potential to pose a greater threat to human health in the future if not properly understood and managed.

The genus Prototheca offers a compelling example of how microorganisms can evolve and adapt to novel environments. Despite their rare occurrence, Prototheca species’ ability to thrive in and on the human body underscores their significance in medical microbiology.

Further, prototheca is a genus of algae that, although rare, can cause disease in both humans and animals. Most notably, they cause protothecosis, a rare infection which can range from a localized skin condition to a serious systemic disease depending on the species and the health condition of the individual. Prototheca wickerhamii and Prototheca zopfii are the species most commonly involved in human infections.

1. Prototheca wickerhamii: This species is most often implicated in human disease, causing both localized and systemic forms of protothecosis. In localized infection, the algae typically causes cutaneous lesions, most commonly in the form of nodules, ulcers, or plaques. It is especially prevalent in immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS, transplant recipients, or those undergoing chemotherapy. If the infection becomes systemic, it can spread to various body organs, including the lymph nodes, eyes, and central nervous system, leading to severe health complications.

2. Prototheca zopfii: While this species is more commonly associated with bovine mastitis (an infection of the udder in dairy cows), it can also cause human disease. Similar to P. wickerhamii, P. zopfii can cause skin lesions in humans, and more rarely, systemic infections. In systemic infections, P. zopfii can affect multiple body systems, leading to symptoms such as weight loss, fever, and fatigue. It can also lead to conditions such as arthritis and olecranon bursitis.

The impact on human health can be quite severe, particularly in immunocompromised individuals, who are more susceptible to systemic infection. It is also important to note that Prototheca species resist most antifungal drugs, making treatment challenging.

Preventing protothecosis involves general infection prevention measures, such as good personal hygiene, using protective clothing and gloves when necessary, and ensuring those with compromised immune systems are especially careful to avoid potential sources of infection.

Their unique features, interaction with the human host, and the diseases they cause warrant comprehensive research and a better understanding of these intriguing organisms.

Algae produce a variety of harmful compounds. These compounds can be toxic to organic life. Here are some examples:

Microcystins: These are potent liver toxins contributing to carcinogenesis.
Anatoxins: These are neurotoxins that can cause paralysis and respiratory failure.
Cylindrospermopsins: These toxins affect the liver and kidney, potentially leading to carcinogenesis.
Cyanotoxins: These are a group of toxins produced by cyanobacteria, a type of algae. They include several subclasses. See below.

Cyanobacteria can produce a range of toxic compounds, collectively referred to as cyanotoxins. They pose significant risks to humans, animals, and the environment. These toxins can be broadly categorized into four groups based on the physiological effects they cause:

1. Hepatotoxins: These primarily target the liver and other internal organs. Microcystins and nodularins are common examples of hepatotoxins produced by cyanobacteria. They inhibit protein phosphatases, leading to liver damage and possibly death in severe cases.

2. Neurotoxins: These toxins primarily affect the nervous system. Anatoxin-a, also known as “Very Fast Death Factor,” and saxitoxin, which is a potent paralytic agent, are examples of neurotoxins produced by cyanobacteria. These toxins can cause symptoms ranging from muscle twitching to respiratory paralysis and death.

3. Cytotoxins: Cylindrospermopsin is an example of a cytotoxin, which primarily targets the liver but can also affect the kidneys, heart, and other organs. It inhibits protein synthesis and can cause cell death.

4. Dermatotoxins: These toxins can cause skin irritation, such as rash, swelling, and blistering. Lipopolysaccharides found in cyanobacteria are suspected to cause these effects.

It’s important to note that not all cyanobacteria produce toxins, and those that do may not produce them under all conditions. The production of toxins can be influenced by environmental factors such as light, temperature, and nutrient availability.

Algae, like all photosynthetic organisms, require several key nutrients for growth and survival. The main nutrients required by algae include:

1. Light: As photosynthetic organisms, algae require light energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into sugars (glucose) and oxygen through the process of photosynthesis.

2. Carbon: Algae utilize carbon dioxide (CO2) from their environment to create organic compounds for growth and reproduction. This is done through the process of photosynthesis.

3. Nitrogen: This is an essential element for protein synthesis and is required for growth and reproduction in algae. Sources of nitrogen for algae can include nitrate (NO3-), ammonia (NH4+), or dissolved organic nitrogen.

4. Phosphorus: Phosphorus is a key component of ATP, nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), and other molecules necessary for energy transfer and genetic information storage. Algae typically absorb phosphorus in the form of phosphate ions (PO4^3-).

5. Potassium: Required for enzyme activity and maintaining the ionic balance within algal cells.

6. Sulfur: Sulfur is a component of some amino acids and vitamins, and is essential for protein synthesis.

7. Trace elements: Algae also require trace amounts of various other elements, such as iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), molybdenum (Mo), cobalt (Co), and several others. These elements are involved in various biochemical processes, such as serving as cofactors for enzymes.

8. Vitamins: Some algae species may require certain vitamins for growth, such as B12, B1, and biotin.

It’s important to note that the specific nutritional needs can vary somewhat depending on the species of algae. Some can fix nitrogen, including prototheca(human algae) from the atmosphere, while others require it from their environment.

Characteristics and Forms of Lichen Presented on and in the Human Body

Lichens are fascinating composite organisms, primarily comprising a symbiotic association of two distinct species: a fungus (mycobiont) and a photosynthetic partner (photobiont), usually an algae or cyanobacteria. Traditionally, lichens have been recognized for their ability to colonize some of the harshest environments on Earth, from desolate Antarctic tundras to bare rocky terrains. Less known, however, is the existence and characteristics of lichens that have adapted to survive in and on the unique ecosystem of the human body.

One should distinguish the lichen-forming fungi from the medically recognized condition called “lichen” in humans, such as lichen planus, lichen planopilaris or lichen sclerosus, which are not associated with the symbiotic organisms found in natural environments but are dermatological conditions characterized by skin lesions. The use of “lichen” in these instances refers to the similarity in appearance to lichen in nature. This essay will focus on the characteristics of true lichen in and on the human body.

The human body represents a distinct and specialized habitat for lichen species due to the specific microclimate, availability of nutrients, and constant interaction with the human immune system. Here, lichens have not only adapted to survive but have also diversified into numerous forms, exhibiting various morphologies and reproductive strategies.

Of their morphologies, lichen on the human body can be divided into three main types. The first is the crustose form, which grows flush against the skin. This form is characterized by its encrusting thallus, or body, that adheres tightly to the substrate, making it almost inseparable from the human skin. The second type is the foliose form, which resembles leaf-like structures. They are somewhat flat, and unlike crustose lichens, they can be gently removed from the skin. Lastly, the fruticose form resembles miniature shrubs, displaying a branched or bushy structure. Fruticose lichens are relatively rare in the human ecosystem, likely due to the environment’s constant change and relative instability.

Reproductive strategies of lichens in and on the human body are primarily asexual, involving the production of specialized propagules like soredia and isidia. Soredia are tiny balls of algal cells surrounded by fungal hyphae, which can be dispersed by minor disturbances and form new lichens elsewhere in or on the body. Isidia are cylindrical outgrowths that can break off to initiate new colonies.

Living in and on the human body also poses unique challenges to lichens, including elevated temperatures, varying humidity, constant shedding of skin cells, and the dynamic host microbiome. Think dry sauna. Lichens have adapted to these conditions by developing specialized structures and biochemical compounds. Many lichens produce unique metabolites, collectively termed as lichen substances, which have antibacterial and antifungal properties, helping them to fend off potential competitors and to resist the host’s immune responses.

While the study of human-associated lichens is still in nascent stages, early evidence suggests a complex interaction with the host. They can potentially influence the skin’s microbiota and even participate in nutrient cycles, such as nitrogen fixation.

In conclusion, lichens that reside on the human body showcase a complex array of adaptations to a unique habitat. Understanding their roles, interactions, and implications on human health remains an intriguing area of research, with potential applications in dermatology, microbiology, and pharmaceuticals.

-Michael J. Loomis & ChatGPT

Whether You Lichen It or Not, They Lichen You

Characteristics and Forms of Lichen Presented on and in the Human Body

In conclusion, lichens that reside on the human body showcase a complex array of adaptations to a unique habitat. The understanding of their roles, interactions, and implications on human health remains an intriguing area of research, with potential applications in dermatology, microbiology, and pharmaceuticals.