HW410 Chapter 4: "Stress and Disease"

Question 1

Who postulated that when we make contact with a pathogenic microbe (some virus or bacterium), our immune system is alerted immediately and goes on the defensive?

Answer 1

Louis Pasteur.

Question 2

Who suggested that good living practices, including one’s attitude and sound nutrition, were essential to keep the body at its optimal level of health, thereby creating an infertile and inhospitable place for the seeds of microorganisms to germinate?

Answer 2

Claude Bernard, a brilliant French physiologist and philosopher. Coined the term homeostasis.

Question 3

A chicago-based physician, Franz Alexander, coined the term to organ neurosis which was later called what to describe the precarious mind-body relationship?

Answer 3

Psychosomatic: A term coined from Franz Alexander’s term organ neurosis, used to describe a host of physical illnesses or diseases caused by the mind and unresolved emotional issues.

Question 4

What is the current focus on the stress-and-disease phenomenon is directed towards?

Answer 4

The interactions of the immune system, the CNS, and human consciousness.

Question 5

To understand the relationship between stress and disease, you must understand what?

Answer 5

That several factors act in unison to create a pathological outcome. These include the cognitive perceptions of threatening stimuli and the consequent activation of the nervous system, the endocrine system, and the immune system.

Question 6

What is defined as the study of the effects of stress on disease; treats the mind, central nervous system, and immune system as one interrelated unit?

Answer 6

Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI)

As defined by Pelletier (1988), psychoneuroimmunology is “the study of the intricate interaction of consciousness (psycho), brain and central nervous system (neuro), and the body’s defense against external infection and internal aberrant cell division (immunology).”

Question 7

What does the Borysenko Model dichotomy broadly divide?

Answer 7

Divides disease and illness into either autonomic dysregulation (overresponsive autonomic nervous system) or immune dysregulation

Question 8

What is defined as increased sensitivity to perceived threats resulting from heightened neural (sympathetic) responses speeding up the metabolic rate of one or more organs?

Answer 8

Autonomic dysregulation

Question 9

What is defined as an immune system wherein various functions are suppressed; now believed to be affected by emotional negativity?

Answer 9

Immune dysregulation

Question 10

What has the purpose to protect the body from pathogens, either externally generated (e.g., bacteria) or internally manufactured (e.g., mutant cells), which impede the proper functioning of the body’s regulatory dynamics?

Answer 10

The immune system.

Question 11

What is a good metaphor to explain the immune system?

Answer 11

The immune system acts like the collective branches of the armed services to ensure national security by protecting the country from both invading forces and internal insurrection.

Question 12

What, throughout life, supplies the lymph tissue with stem cells (the precursors to various lymphoid cells), that eventually become B-lymphocytes (B-Cells)?

Answer 12

Bone Marrow (Part of the immune system’s network of organs)

Question 13

What gland that is below the throat that allows stem cells to mature into T-lymphocytes (T-Cells)?

Answer 13

The thymus gland.

Question 14

Where are T-cells and B-cells occasionally house and migrate to?

Answer 14

The lymph nodes, spleen and gut-associated lymphoid tissue. Other aspects of the immune system include the tonsils, and unique lymphoid tissue associated with the bronchioles, genitals, and skin.

Question 15

What do T-cells and B-cells readily prepare to encounter as their respective targets?

Answer 15

Antigens. These are molecules that make up a pathogen and they have the capacity to interact with various receptor sites on several types of immune system cells.

Question 16

What is defined as immune system cells (t cells and b cells) that are housed throughout the lymphatic system, with 2 percent in circulation at any one time?

Answer 16

Lymphocytes. The remaining 98 percent constitute a dynamic defense system, housed and circulated through various organs of the lymphatic system.

Question 17

What family of cells constitute the major component of the immune system where lymphocytes are one of five types?

Answer 17

Leukocytes. They are produced in the bone marrow where they eventually migrate to the peripheral organs of the lymphatic system.

Question 18

Who are the other members of the leukocyte family?

Answer 18

The other members of the leukocyte family include granulocytes, macrophages (which seem to collaborate with T-cells and B-cells to help identify antigens for destruction), and eosinophils and basophils, which have a lesser role with altered immune function.

Question 19

What is the job of the T-cells?

Answer 19

T-lymphocytes are primarily responsible for cell-mediated immunity—that is, the elimination of internally manufactured antigens (e.g., mutinous cells) in organ tissue.

In an action similar to scanning a grocery store product for its bar code, each T-cell travels throughout the body to scan all other cells for a match between their DNA structure and its own.

Question 20

What is currently believed about mutant cells?

Answer 20

It is currently believed that the human body produces one mutant cell approximately every couple of hours.

Question 21

What do T-cells release in their direct attack on mutant cells?

Answer 21

Cytokines.

Question 22

What is the job of the B-cells?

Answer 22

Primarily the elimination of pathogenic microorganisms that contribute to infectious diseases, including viruses and bacteria.

Question 23

T-lymphocytes has three subgroups (one additional immune cell as well) in the family of cells that makeup a major component of the immune system (Leukocytes). What are they?

Answer 23

T-cytotoxic cells, T-helpers (CD4), and T-suppressors (CD8).

The one immune cell is called the NK cell that collaborates with the T-cytotoxic cells to do its function.

Question 24

What is defined as best known as the cells that attack and destroy tumorous cells by releasing cytokines?

Answer 24

T-cytotoxic cells.

The basic T-cells release cytokines, which then allow the cells to become sensitized to identify endogenous antigens on the cell membrane for destruction. In addition, with the help of macrophages, they attack and destroy tumorous cells.

Question 25

What is defined as also known as CD4, these cells help in the production of antibodies released by T-cells?

Answer 25

T-helpers.

Clinically labeled as CD4, these cells appear to increase the production of antibodies released by T-cells. T-helpers and T-suppressors are referred to as immunoregulatory cells because they regulate cell-mediated immunity (T-cell) and humoral antibody (B-cell) response.

Question 26

What is defined as also known as CD8, these cells decrease the production of antibodies, thus keeping a healthy balance of T-cells?

Answer 26

T-suppressors.

Clinically labeled as CD8, these cells appear to decrease the production of antibodies necessary to assist T-cells in attacking and killing endogenous antigens. A reduction in CD8 is believed to keep cytotoxic T-cells in check so that they do not attack self-proteins and thereby cause degeneration of healthy tissue. A reduction in CD8 is thought to be associated with arthritis and lupus. (Borysenko notes that clinical tests show a 2:1 ratio of CD4:CD8 to be normal, whereas a ratio less than this is a signal that this aspect of the immune system is deficient.)

Question 27

What is defined as large lymphocytes that can detect endogenous antigens, thus helping to destroy mutant cells?

Answer 27

Natural killer (NK) cells.

Unlike cytotoxic T-cells, these immune cells (large lymphocytes) appear to have an innate ability to detect endogenous antigens without the help of any neuropeptides to sensitize them or previous memory experience. NK cells collaborate with cytotoxic T-cells to destroy mutant cells, virus-infected cells, and transplanted grafts. NK cells have a unique role in immune surveillance to detect malignant cell changes. Among immunologists, NK cells are known as “psychosocial friendly cells” because they mirror emotional states (ups and downs) of the mind.

Question 28

Fun knowledge:

What are the two theories of disease that have made a emergence?

What is the third newest in respect to this question?

Answer 28

Germ theory of disease, which ushered in the age of antibiotics and vaccinations.

The Genome Project, which seeks to link every disease to a defective gene in our DNA.

The Human Microbiome. Researchers now call the intestinal flora, which is composed of trillions of healthy bacteria, the “microbiome.” The premise of the microbiome is that each human being is actually a multispecies superorganism.

Perhaps the biggest take-home message about a compromised microbiome is its association with inflammation. Inflammation (excessive oxidation of tissues) is associated with many chronic diseases, and stress seems to be a major trigger for inflammation.

Question 29

According to Borysenko’s model, what is a result of the immune system not working as homeostatically intended?

Answer 29

The result is immunological overreaction, underreaction, or perhaps both.

Question 30

What is an example of an exogenous (growing or originating from outside an organism) event because of an overreacting immune system?

What about underreacting immune system?

Answer 30

Allergies.

Infections (cold and flu)

Herpes can be caused in underreactions.

Question 31

What is an example of an endogenous (growing or originating from within an organism) event because of an overreacting immune system?

What about underreacting immune system?

Answer 31

Arthritis and Lupus.

Cancer.

Herpes can be caused in underreactions.

Question 32

What is another term for neoplasms?

Answer 32

Cancerous Tumors.

Question 33

What is another term for neoplasms?

Answer 33

Cancerous Tumors.

Question 34

What is defined as diseases that occur because of an overactive immune system, which “attacks the body.” Examples include lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.

Answer 34

Autoimmune diseases.

Question 35

What is important to note about an overreaction and underreaction?

Answer 35

Note that you can have an allergic reaction (overreaction) and a cold (underreaction) at the same time because they are produced by different dynamics.

Question 36

In support of Borysenko’s model, what ongoing research to understand the link between stress and the immune system?

Answer 36

Acute psychological stress decreases NK cell activity through a profound effect on cytokine production. Chronic stress is observed to suppress NK cell activity, thereby increasing one’s susceptibility to infections and cancer

Question 37

What secondary effect has been observed other than what has been seen in cytokines and stress?

Answer 37

Stress-related changes in the immune system have been observed in secondary lymphoid tissue (spleen, lymph nodes) where T-cells are produced. Lymphoid tissues, bathed in a “hormonal milieu,” appear to be significantly affected by emotions and thought processing.

Question 38

The Pert Model

Until recently, it was thought that there was no direct link between the nervous system and the immune system; virtually all physiologists believed that these two systems acted independently.

What connections with the CNS and immune system have been discovered to show that they might not be independent of each other?

Answer 38

Researchers have isolated neural endings connecting the CNS to the thymus, lymph nodes, spleen, and bone marrow.

Tonsils, adenoids, and some cells of the small intestine have been found to be innervated by sympathetic nerve fibers.

Question 39

What is defined as the unique messenger hormones produced in the brain (and other organs of the body) that fit into the receptor sites of lymphocytes?

Answer 39

Neuropeptides. Different from the efferent/afferent system and they influenced by emotional responses.

Question 40

What did Candace Pert discover?

Answer 40

Lymphocytes have built-in receptor sites for neuropeptides. Neuropeptides is also a recent discovery.

Question 41

What does the brain produce endogenously that is associated with chemical addictions?

Answer 41

Its own (endogenous) opiates, neurotransmitters that have a similar effect to those manufactured externally, such as morphine.

Question 42

What is the most publicized neuropeptide (chemical messenger) that is just one of hundreds and are associated with mood changes and immune regulation?

Answer 42

Beta-endorphin.

Question 43

What does Pert suggest there is only one of?

Answer 43

Neuropeptide molecule that, like a chameleon, changes its configuration as a result of emotional influences.

Question 44

What is hypothesized on how the spontaneous change in a neuropeptide can happen?

Answer 44

May be accounted for by the wavelike oscillations or vibrations of the electrons in each neuropeptide molecule.

Pert’s hypothesis parallels work conducted by German physicist Fritz-Albert Popp, who discovered that DNA is capable of sending out a large range of frequencies, with each frequency being associated with a particular metabolic function.

Question 45

What discovery was made by Pert about neuropeptides and their production?

Answer 45

Originally thought that neuropeptides receptors were created in the brain because the hypothalamus as the largest preponderance of neuropeptide receptors.

Her research revealed that throughout the body immune cells not only have receptors for neuropeptides, but also can manufacture them independently.

These same immune cells seem to have a kind of memory that enables them to adapt and respond to emotional responses.

Question 46

What is concluded about how neuropeptides work in communication?

Answer 46

It is believed they are the means of communication between the brain and the T & B-cells (bidirectional where they talk to each other).

This has given credence to the supposition that emotions may suppress the function of lymphocytes while others may act as immunoenhancers.

Question 47

What are some examples of landmark studies that put PNI on the map in the medical community with regards to dental students, specifically those highly motivated?

Answer 47

Influence of academic stress on the rate of secretory immunoglobulin (S-IgA) in dental student. S-IgA is the first line of defense of respiratory diseases. 5 samples were taken from saliva throughout the year, and conclusion stated that values were lower during stressful periods, particularly in the students who demonstrated high power motivation.

Question 48

PNI on the map: Medical students at Ohio State University.

Answer 48

Most noteworthy was a classic study that found a decrease in the number of lymphocytes in Ohio State University medical students during their first day of exams, as compared with samples taken prior to and after the exam period (1984).

Question 49

PNI on the map: Aging

Answer 49

Kiecolt-Glaser’s research (2003) suggests that chronic stress accelerates the aging process (which entails many diseases) through the overproduction of a specific proinflammatory cytokine.

Question 50

PNI on the map: Emotional Stress in animals

Answer 50

Studies investigating the relationship between emotional stress and immunosuppression have also been conducted using animals as subjects (Bovbjerg et al., 1984). For example, when rats were subjected to foot shocks they could not control, a significant reduction in immune function (i.e., decreased lymphocyte proliferation) was detected (Laudenslanger et al., 1983).

The suppression of the immune system was considered a conditioned response. The researchers concluded that a helpless-hopeless attitude, initiated by an inability to control factors of the environment, can pave a path toward illness.

Question 51

PNI on the map: Bereavement (2)

Answer 51

Immunosuppression has also been observed in individuals during bereavement. A study by Bartrop et al. (1977) indicated that people manifested lower lymphocyte proliferation within 8 weeks of the loss of a spouse. Similar findings were observed by Schleifer et al. (1983) in men whose wives had died of breast cancer, with results showing a significant reduction in lymphocyte proliferation.

These studies have led some to suggest that humans, like rats, can be conditioned to suppress their immune systems by means of emotions and/or thought processes.

Question 52

PNI on the map: Immunoenhancement

Answer 52

One of the most interesting studies regarding the effects of relaxation and coping techniques on immunoenhancement was conducted by Esterling et al. (1994). In this study, the effect of various stress-management skills on NK cell activity was investigated among nursing home patients. Subjects were divided into three groups: (1) those who were taught relaxation techniques, (2) those who were provided with abundant social contact, and (3) those who received no special techniques or contact.

Results revealed that after a 1-month period, the NK cell count was significantly higher in those subjects who received stress-management therapy than in the controls. Other studies, inspired by the work of Norman Cousins, have also been conducted to determine the relationship between positive emotions and changes in the immune system.

Question 53

The Lipton Model

What theory is Bruce Lipton a proponent of?

Answer 53

Epigenetic theory - the study of molecular mechanisms in which environment controls gene activity of the DNA.

Question 54

What does Lipton suggest is the brain of a cell?

Answer 54

Its cell membrane or cell wall. The cell membrane holds a complexity of knowledge that allows your body to translate environmental signals into behavior.

Question 55

What plays a significant role in the integrity of the cell’s health?

Answer 55

Electromagnetic particles of energy.

Question 56

What are cells capable of doing but not at the same time?

Answer 56

• Promote growth

- Promote protection of their own integrity

Question 57

What is the catch 22 on growth and protection in a cell?

Answer 57

More time spent on protection, the less time and energy for growth which in turn impedes not only the health of the cell but also the organ it is apart of (and because everything connects energetically, the health of the individual).

A state of constant stress can ultimately compromise the health of the cell and hence its vitality. As each cell goes, so goes the organ or system that contains it. Lipton says being scared to death is no mere metaphor.

Question 58

Give an example of the catch 22 in regards to the nervous system and the GI.

Answer 58

Take the effect of the nervous system on the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Typically, the cells in the lining of your stomach are replaced every 72 hours. This naturally occurring growth process is suspended in the fight-or-flight response of chronic stress with more energy being provided for protection rather than growth. Over time, the functioning of the stomach and small intestine will be impaired significantly.

Question 59

What, in surgery, demonstrates the relationship of stress hormones and the immune system?

Answer 59

Lipton notes that stress hormones greatly affect the vitality of the immune system, so much so that patients undergoing an organ transplant are often given high doses of these hormones (e.g., cortisol) to suppress the immune system so that the new organ won’t be rejected.

Question 60

How does the conscious unconscious mind and stress shorten the life of cells, specifically immune cells?

Answer 60

Telomeres (a DNA protein) involved with cell division are greatly compromised by chronic psychological stress.

Question 61

What was lipton’s statement to the connection between one’s attitude (belief) and one’s health status?

Answer 61

He states: “Your beliefs act like filters on a camera lens, changing how you see the world. And your biology adapts to those beliefs”

Question 62

Unit now, how did clinical researchers, influenced by the reductionist theory, assume how the mind and brain work?

Answer 62

That all thoughts are merely the result of biochemical reactions occurring within the neurons and synapses of the brain’s gray matter.

Question 63

What is Dr. Richard Gerber’s alternative hypothesis - a holistic or systems-theory approach - see how the mind and brain work?

Answer 63

That mind as conscious and unconscious thoughts exists as energy that surrounds and permeates the body, influencing a host of corporal biochemical reactions.

From this perspective, stress-related symptoms that appear in the physical body are the manifestation of “problems” that have occurred earlier as a result of a disturbance at a “higher energy level.”

Question 64

What is defined as subtle human anatomy that goes by many names, from the electromagnetic field around an object to a colorful aura.

Answer 64

The human energy field is thought to be composed of layers of consciousness that surround and permeate the physical body.

Question 65

What does Gerber’s model describe and how many layers are there?

Answer 65

Describes the human energy field of subtle matter as consisting of several layers of consciousnes, the etheric, that closest to the body; the astral, which is associated with emotional thought; the mental, three tiers of consciousness including instinct, intellect, and intuition; and the outermost layer, the causal, which is associated with the soul.

Question 66

What is defined as a series of layers of energy that surround and permeate the body; thought to be associated with layers of consciousness constituting the human energy field?

Answer 66

Subtle energy

Question 67

What is defined as the layer of energy closest to the physical body (also known as the etheric body).

Answer 67

Etheric energy

Question 68

What is defined as another term for the etheric layer of energy closest to the physical body?

Answer 68

Bioplasma

Question 69

What is defined as A technique developed by Russian Semyon Kirlian enabling the viewer to see the electromagnetic energy given off by an object such as the leaf of a tree or human hand.?

Answer 69

Kirlian photography. This technique is one of several technologies that substantiates the human energy field.

Question 70

What is defined as also called energy anatomy, subtle anatomy comprises the human energy field (aura), the chakra system, and the meridian system of energetic pathways that supply energy (also known as chi or prana) to the organs and physiological systems with which they connect?

Answer 70

Subtle anatomy.

Question 71

What is defined as a term used to describe the collaboration of subtle energy (chakras, meridians, and the human energy field) with psychological issues and trauma involving certain aspects of stress?

Answer 71

Energy psychology - the study of subtle energy and energy medicine

It attempts to unite quantum physics and subtle anatomy with psychology to better understand and treat stress-related diseases at a psychospiritual level.

Question 72

What concept supports chakras in regards to disease?

Answer 72

The concept of the chakras may begin to explain why two people with the exact same stressor manifest different symptoms of disease as their thoughts and emotions are processed energetically through the layers of subtle energy and the chakra system.

Question 73

What is defined as a resonating vibration given off by one object that is picked up by another object in close proximity. Tuning forks provide a classic example?

Answer 73

Sympathetic resonance

Question 74

What is defined In physics, the mutual phase locking of like oscillations; in human physiology, organs or organisms giving off strong vibrations influencing organs or organisms with weaker vibrations to match the stronger rate of oscillation; thought to conserve energy?

Answer 74

Entrainment

Question 75

How is entrainment related to health and disease?

Answer 75

In humans, the result over time if several organs are influenced to entrain at a higher than normal frequency is a decreased ability to return to homeostasis, resulting in metabolic dysfunction or possibly irregular cell division in those organs.

Question 76

How many chakras make up the chakra network system?

Answer 76

7

Question 77

What is defined as a river of energy with hundreds of interconnected points throughout the body, used in the practice of acupuncture and shiatsu massage?

Answer 77

Meridians

Question 78

What did Dr. Kim Han discover using a radioactive isotope through acupuncture needles?

Answer 78

He discovered that traces of the isotope followed a fine ductlike tubule system not related to the circulatory, lymphatic, or nervous systems; rather, they paralleled the acupuncture meridian system.

Question 79

How does the mind-body relationship lose its harmonic equilibrium?

Answer 79

The first faults bioecological influences—that is, repeated exposure to those energy frequencies, natural (ultraviolet rays) or human-made (high-tension power lines), with a rhythm greater than 7.8 Hz, which distort some aspect of the human energy field.

The second explanation for the loss of mind-body equilibrium is that self-produced emotional disturbances congest the energy field at the astral (emotional) layer and precipitate a host of physical maladies. Toxic thoughts that go unresolved, often referred to as emotional baggage, may translate into physical ailments that serve as a reminder of these issues.

Question 80

To understand the first theory of harmonic equilibrium.

What is the smallest particle in an atom composed of?

Answer 80

First, the smallest particle within an atom is composed of energy, and energy and mass are interchangeable; thus, each object gives off a unified rhythm or series of oscillations.

These oscillations are depicted in units of measurement called hertz (Hz), or oscillations per second. In turn, objects that oscillate, including the human body, create a magnetic energy field.

Question 81

To understand the first theory of harmonic equilibrium.

What did Dr. Robert Becker, twice nominated for a nobel prize, do to show the relationship between the incidence of cancer and radiation emitted from various sources?

Answer 81

He concluded that an unequivocal relationship exists between extremely low frequencies (ELF)—the range in which electrical current oscillates (60 Hz)—and the development of diseases in people who are repeatedly exposed to them. Becker is of the opinion that oscillations of a higher frequency are somehow absorbed through the human energy field (what he calls the human electromagnetic field), resulting in alterations to the genetic makeup of cells at the atomic level.

Question 82

To understand the first theory of harmonic equilibrium.

What did geobiologist Joseph Kirschvink discover about human brain cells and a substance called magnetite?

Answer 82

Kirschvink speculated that exposure to various electrical impulses can alter the integrity of magnetite and affect the cells’ health or rate of activity. Disturbances produced by electrical interference can result in mutations at the cellular level, which may then become cancerous tumors.

Question 83

To understand the first theory of harmonic equilibrium.

With an in vitro study, what was seen with T-lymphocytes and being exposed to a 60-Hz energy field?

Answer 83

In vitro T-lymphocytes exposed to a 60-Hz energy field significantly reduced their cytotoxic ability against foreign antigens over a 48-hour period. Becker also suggested that energy currents may affect mood and emotions, which are thought to be associated with the astral and mental layers of the human energy field.

Question 84

To understand the first theory of harmonic equilibrium.

What was concluded in Becker’s Cross Currents book?

Answer 84

At this time, the scientific evidence is absolutely conclusive: 60-Hz magnetic fields cause human cancer cells to permanently increase their rate of growth by as much as 1600 percent and to develop more malignant characteristics. These results indicate that power frequency fields are cancer promoters. Cancer promoters, however, have major implications for the incidence of cancer because they increase the number of cases of causing agents in our environment, ranging from carcinogenic chemicals to cosmic rays. As a result, we are always developing small cancer cells that are recognized by our immune system and destroyed. Any factor that increases the growth rate of these small cancers gives them an advantage over the immune system, and as a result more people develop clinical cancers that require treatment.

Question 85

To understand the first theory of harmonic equilibrium.

What is linked to cell phone usage?

Answer 85

A study conducted at the Cleveland Clinic by Agarwal and colleagues (2008) revealed that cell phone usage is linked to a lower sperm count.

Question 86

To understand the second theory of harmonic equilibrium.

What did Gerber state about thoughts?

Answer 86

Thoughts, perceptions, and emotions, according to Gerber’s theory, originate in the various layers of subtle energy, cascade through the mind-body interface, and are decoded at the molecular level to cause biochemical changes in the body.

He states, “Thoughts are particles of energy. [Negative] thoughts are accompanied by emotions which also begin at the energy levels. As these particles of energy filter through from the etheric level to the physical level, the end result is immunoincompetence”

Question 87

What are significant observations with those diagnosed with multiple personality disorder (MPD) and the ability to manifest different personalities?

Answer 87

For instance, a patient may be a diabetic under the influence of one personality, yet show no signs of this disease in the presence of another.

Similarly, one personality may require prescription glasses or have asthma or severe allergies, whereas the remaining personalities show no traces of these symptoms.

These disease states disappear within the individual when another personality becomes dominant. In most cases of MPD, the patient experienced some incredibly traumatic event as a child. Stress is thought to be strongly associated with the etiology of disease, yet its appearance and disappearance from personality to personality have medical experts baffled.

Question 88

What is defined as the sudden (sometimes gradual) disappearance of a nonmedically treated disease, most often observed with cancerous tumors, but other diseases as well? What is significant about this as well?

Answer 88

Spontaneous remission.

What makes these reports so remarkable is that many people who were spontaneously cured were originally diagnosed as terminally ill. There are now even several documented cases of HIV remission.

But a closer look into the matter reveals that in documented cases, some people who were given weeks to live seemed to go through an “about-face attitude” resulting in a “spontaneous cure.”

Question 89

How many cases since the 1980s did the Institute of Noetic Sciences find of spontaneous remission in medical literature and what percent occurred with no clinical intervention?

Answer 89

3000; and 15 percent.

Question 90

What is used to access the powers of the unconscious mind, creates a state of increased suggestability and appear to influence the biochemical mechanisms responsible for healing?

Answer 90

Hypnosis.

According to Pelletier, the following illnesses have been shown to be cured by hypnosis: warts, asthma, hay fever, contact dermatitis, and some animal allergies. Case studies of ichthyosis, a congenital skin disease, have also been successfully treated with hypnosis.

Question 91

What is defined as a nonmedicine (e.g., sugar pill) that can prove to be as effective as the medicine it is supposed to represent. Healing occurs as a matter of belief.

Answer 91

Placebo.

Question 92

What is defined as a bona fide, effective medicine that does not work because the patient doesn’t believe that it will.

Answer 92

Nocebo.

Question 93

What explains placebo in the reflection of the intrinsic healing of the body and mind?

Answer 93

Placebos fall within the realm of faith healing, where a person so strongly believes that the medication he or she received will cure the illness that a healing effect occurs even when what was ingested is no “real” medication at all.

Question 94

What does the FDA insist that new medications must meet in comparison to a placebo in clinical studies before they can be approved?

Answer 94

A cure rate of greater than 35% of that in comparison to using a placebo.

The demarcation of a placebo. Some placebos have a cure rate of 70%.

Question 95

What in conjunction with a placebo helps with the incidence of a cure?

Answer 95

Attending physicians that are supportive.

Question 96

What development describes the event in which transplantees have memories from their organ doners?

Answer 96

Cell memory.

Although a vegetarian and a connoisseur of wine, Claire had cravings for KFC and beer—the last food Tim had before he died in a motorcycle accident. These and other stories like them suggest that cells retain some level of consciousness that is then passed on to the recipient of the organ. Similarly, some people, who, while in therapy, recount memories of childhood physical abuse, begin to manifest bruises in the places where they were beaten decades earlier.

Question 97

What are the two other areas of scientific investigation that support healing and the mind that were previously talked about?

Answer 97

Subtle energy and immunoenhancements.

Question 98

What is a way to enhance the telomeres that reflect the aging process and reduce oxidative stress?

Answer 98

Physical exercise is suggested as a means to enhance the integrity of telomeres. Could other relaxation techniques lead you to the fountain of youth? Perhaps!

Question 99

What are good supplemental aids in any recovery process?

Answer 99

Relaxation techniques like mental imagery and meditation.

Question 100

What expression, a type A behavioral trait, is associated with coronary heart disease?

Answer 100

Hostility.

Question 101

What disease is known are the “great mimicker”, as much as 50% of the American population might have it, the diagnostic sign of a “bulls-eye marking” only occurs 20% of the time, and because of its molecular make-up, in now considered a STD?

Answer 101

Lyme disease, originating in Lyme, Connecticut (found elsewhere as well) and sources in the tiny deer tick. (other animals and bugs can carry it as well)

Question 102

How many cases of Lyme disease go untreated and how many suffer long-term symptoms?

Answer 102

69% and 20%

Question 103

What is defined as any organ or tissue receiving excess neural or hormonal stimulation that increases metabolic function or abnormal cell growth; results in eventual dysfunction of the organ.

Answer 103

Target organ.

For some unexplained reason, during various stages of acute and chronic stress, certain regions of the body seem more susceptible to excessive metabolic activity than others.

Any organ can be a target organ: hair, skin, blood vessels, joints, muscles, stomach, colon, and so on. In some people one organ may be singled out, while in others several organs may be targeted. Genetics, emotions, personality, and environmental factors have all been speculated as possible explanations for target organs, without conclusive evidence to support any of them.

Question 104

What is explained as in the event of perceived stress, organs that are innervated by neural tissue or acted upon by the excessive secretion of stress hormones increase their metabolic rates. When denied the ability to rest, organs may begin to dysfunction, much like a car engine that overheats on a very hot day. Several states of disease and illness first appear as stress-related symptoms that, if undetected or untreated, may result in serious health problems.

Answer 104

Nervous system-related disorders.

Question 105

What is defined as the first stage of coronary heart disease, wherein a fat streak appears on the inner lining of artery walls?

Answer 105

Atherogenesis

Question 106

What is defined as the second stage of coronary heart disease, wherein artery walls slowly become occluded by cholesterol-plaque buildup?

Answer 106

Atherosclerosis

Question 107

What is defined as the third and final stage of coronary heart disease, wherein the arteries become hardened by cholesterol buildup, calcium deposits, and loss of elasticity?

Answer 107

Arteriosclerosis

Question 108

What is defined as a name given to the condition where symptoms of a heart attack occur as a result of emotional stress; when stress hormones temporarily overwhelm heart tissue cells?

Answer 108

Broken heart syndrome.

Question 109

What is explained as in the event of perceived stress that alter the molecular structure of biochemical agents or neuropeptides and to suppress the number and functions of various key leukocytes? Stress hormones (cortisol) may also decrease the effectiveness of leukocytes.

Answer 109

Immune system-related disorders.

The body becomes more vulnerable to exogenous and endogenous antigens.

Question 110

What is defined as an underreactive immune system affected by external pathogens (e.g., colds and flu)?

Answer 110

Exogenous-underreactive.

From Borysenko’s model of the immune system, we can see that as the number of B-lymphocytes decreases, the body becomes more vulnerable to the influences of the viruses that produce the common cold.

Question 111

What is defined as an overreactive immune system affected by external pathogens (e.g., allergies)?

Answer 111

Exogenous-overreactive

An allergic reaction is initiated when a foreign substance, or antigen (e.g., pollen, bee venom, dust spores), enters the body. In response to this intrusion, granulocytes secrete antibodies called histamines. When histamines encounter the antigens they form inactive complexes, in essence neutralizing their toxic effect.

In an overreactive immune response to exogenous antigens, the excess of histamines causes swelling of mucous membrane tissue, in the case of inhaled antigens, or of skin tissue, in the case of infection. Some studies have shown that the introduction of foreign antigens isn’t necessary to trigger an allergic reaction. Borysenko suggests that B-lymphocytes have the capacity of memory that may induce the production of histamines and other antibodies (immunoglobulins) without direct contact with an antigen. In some people, allergic reactions can occur just by thinking about the stimulus that provoked a previous attack.

Several studies have also shown that allergic reactions are more prevalent and severe in subjects prone to anxiety (Lehrer et al., 1993). Over-the-counter medications containing antihistamines and allergy shots are the most common approaches to dealing with allergies. New data suggest that relaxation techniques also minimize the effects of external antigens (Wright, 2003).

Question 112

What is defined as an overreactive immune system affected by internal pathogens (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis and ulcers)?

Answer 112

Endogenous-overreactive

In this case, constituents of the immune system begin to attack apparently healthy tissue, mistaking it for a foreign substance. Rheumatoid arthritis, a joint and connective tissue disease, occurs when synovial membrane tissue swells, causing the joint to become inflamed.

There is speculation that rheumatoid arthritis has a genetic link. It also has an association with stress, because it has been noted that the severity of arthritic pain is often related to episodes of stress, particularly suppressed anger. The treatment for this disease varies from pain relievers (e.g., aspirin) to steroid injections (e.g., cortisone), depending on the severity of pain and rate of joint deterioration. Relaxation techniques are now being recommended as a complementary treatment to help reduce symptoms.

The series of events that lead to the destruction of this organ tissue begins with an excessive sympathetic neural drive. Increased secretions of norepinephrine are thought to cause a constriction of the vasculature in the lining of the stomach. This in turn is believed to decrease mucous secretions produced by the inner lining of the stomach wall. The purpose of mucus is to protect against the strong digestive enzymes that break down foodstuffs in the stomach.

Ulcers were one of the first diseases associated with undue stress; Selye noted this in his earliest studies with rats. Similarly, physicians immediately noticed an association between anxiety and the symptoms of ulcers in their patients, most notably sharp pains in the stomach.

Question 113

What is defined as an underreactive immune system affected by internal pathogens (e.g., cancer)?

Answer 113

Endogenous-underreactive

The two most prominent theories include the following: the first, falling back on the germ theory, suggests that all cancers are the result of an invading microbe or pathogen. The second theory suggests that there is a gene (called an oncogene) somewhere in the DNA structure that produces an abnormal or mutant cell (McClean, 1997). There is even a medical journal dedicated to this vein of research called Oncogene. Whether this gene can be inherited or is somehow externally triggered is yet to be determined; there are arguments both ways. The production of an abnormal cell in the body by itself is not uncommon. Some research suggests that the body produces about six mutant cells per day. In a precisely regulated immune system, T-cells and NK cells keep such endogenous antigens in check.

T-lymphocytes have a commando mission to search for and destroy malignant cells. If for some reason their ability is suppressed, the likelihood of a cancerous tumor is increased. Although the life span of a mutated cell is markedly shorter than that of normal cells (this process is called relative inviability), if undetected, it proliferates much more quickly than a normal cell, producing a tumor. Because of their structural inability to manufacture various enzymes necessary to perform normal cellular functions, cancerous tumors rob healthy cells of their nutrients.

Question 114

Where does the incidence of cancer seem highest?

Answer 114

Appears higher among people who have a hard time expressing their emotions, have low self-esteem, and experience feelings of rejection. These same traits are said to characterize the codependent or addictive personality.