The Anonymous Widower

How Much B12 In A Portion Of Beef Lasagne?

I asked Google AI, the title of this post and received this answer.

A standard portion of beef lasagne (approx. 200g-300g) typically contains between 0.6 mcg and 1.7 mcg of Vitamin B12.

This amount provides roughly 25% to 70% of the recommended daily intake (RDA) for adults (which is 2.4 mcg).

Per 100g: A 100g serving contains approximately 0.3 mcg to 0.4 mcg of B12.

Higher-End Estimates: Some nutritional data indicates that a generous, nutrient-dense serving of homemade beef lasagne can have as much as 1.7 mcg of B12.

Source: The primary source of B12 in this dish is the ground beef, with additional amounts from cheese and dairy.

Note: The exact amount depends on the amount of beef and dairy used in the recipe.

I generally eat, one Marks and Spencer’s Made Without gluten-free beef lasagne every week.

March 9, 2026 Posted by | Artificial Intelligence, Food | , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Does Lack Of B12 Affect Your Hearing?

I asked Google AI, the title of this post and received this answer.

Yes, a lack of vitamin B12 can affect your hearing, potentially leading to tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and hearing loss. Deficiencies can cause nerve damage (demyelination) in the auditory nerve and damage the small blood vessels in the inner ear.

Impact on Hearing

Tinnitus: Studies suggest B12 deficiency is linked to tinnitus, with some research indicating that supplementation can improve or reverse these symptoms.

Hearing Loss: Low B12 levels are associated with a higher prevalence of hearing impairment, particularly in older adults.

Inner Ear Damage: A lack of B12 may cause degeneration of the cochlear nerve.

Developmental Issues: In children, B12 deficiency may interfere with auditory development.

Causes and Risk Factors

Deficiency can result in high homocysteine levels, which may impair blood flow to the cochlea.

Risk factors for low B12 include:

Vegetarians/Vegans: Due to limited dietary intake.

Adults Over 60: Due to reduced absorption.

Digestive Disorders: Conditions like Coeliac or Crohn’s disease.

Medications: Long-term use of metformin or antacids.

If you are experiencing persistent tinnitus or hearing changes, it is recommended to consult a doctor to check your B12 levels.

I fairly sure that my hearing fits that pattern. Although, I’ve never had tinnitus.

March 9, 2026 Posted by | Health, Artificial Intelligence | , , , , | Leave a comment

Did This Get Lost In The Covids?

In October 2019, I wrote Asthma Carbon Footprint ‘As Big As Eating Meat’ and it made me think, when I just read it.

I would normally follow up a post like this, but I don’t remember doing anything like that.

The Wikipedia entry for the COVID-19 pandemic in England, starts with this paragraph.

The COVID-19 pandemic was first confirmed to have spread to England with two cases among Chinese nationals staying in a hotel in York on 31 January 2020.

It looks to me, that like everybody else in England, I had the Covids on my mind.

Is Respimat A Zero-Carbon Inhaler?

Just to be sure, I asked Google AI, the question in the title of this section and received this reply.

The Respimat soft mist inhaler is considered to have virtually no associated carbon emissions from its operation because it does not contain the high global warming potential (GWP) hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) propellants found in metered-dose inhalers (pMDIs).
While it has a substantially lower carbon footprint than traditional pMDIs, it is not strictly “zero-carbon” when considering its entire life cycle, which includes manufacturing, materials (stainless steel, aluminium, polymers), and end-of-life disposal. These factors contribute a small product carbon footprint (PCF).

According to Google AI, a reusable version is available.

A reusable Respimat device has been introduced, which further reduces the carbon footprint by up to 71% over six months compared to the disposable version because the device itself is kept longer, reducing manufacturing impacts.

Google AI says this about NHS guidance.

Health bodies like the NHS encourage the use of lower-carbon inhalers like the Respimat or dry powder inhalers (DPIs) as part of their net-zero targets, provided they are clinically appropriate for the patient.

But it does seem that Respimat devices are helping to cut global warming.

What Is The Patient Experience Of Respimat?

Google AI gave this answer to my question.

Patient experience with the Respimat inhaler is generally very positive, with high satisfaction for its ease of use, handling, and the “soft mist” it produces, leading to high continuation rates in studies; patients find it easier than many older devices and report good effectiveness, though common side effects like dry mouth, cough, and sore throat can occur.

Key Aspects of Patient Experience

  • High Satisfaction: Over 85-90% of patients report being satisfied or very satisfied with the Respimat’s handling and the ease of inhaling the mist.
  • Preference Over Other Devices: Many patients prefer Respimat over traditional metered-dose inhalers (pMDIs) or dry powder inhalers (DPIs), finding it easier to use and more effective.
  • Soft Mist Technology: Patients appreciate the gentle, slow-moving mist, which helps deliver medication effectively and feels different from a typical puff.
  • Good Adherence: High satisfaction often translates to continued use, with physicians reporting high patient adherence and continuation rates after studies end.
  • Improved Technique: While initial use might need guidance, pharmacist-led interventions show significant improvements in patients’ inhalation technique over time.

That doesn’t look bad to me!

Could Immunotherapy Drugs Be Delivered By An Inhaler?

We always felt the device could deliver other drugs.

Google AI gave this answer to my question.

Yes, immunotherapy drugs could potentially be delivered by an inhaler, and this approach is a promising area of active research and development, particularly for treating lung cancer and respiratory diseases like asthma.

Rationale and Research

  • Targeted Treatment: Inhaled delivery allows for high concentrations of the drug to be delivered directly to the lungs, which is particularly beneficial for treating lung-specific conditions like lung cancer or severe asthma. This localized approach aims to maximize the therapeutic effect where needed.
  • Reduced Side Effects: By concentrating the medication in the lungs and minimizing its systemic absorption into the bloodstream, researchers hope to significantly reduce the severe side effects (e.g., systemic toxicity, autoimmune reactions) commonly associated with traditional intravenous or oral administration of some immunotherapies and chemotherapies.
  • Patient Convenience: Inhalation is a non-invasive administration route, which is more convenient and comfortable for patients compared to injections or intravenous infusions, potentially allowing for self-administration and improving patient compliance.

The Soft Mist Technology could surely be a help!

Was Osborne Reynolds The Greatest Fluid Dynamicist?

I have to ask Google AI this question, as some of the discussions that led to creation of Respimat, took place in my house at Debach, where Osborne Reynolds had lived.

Google AI gave this answer to my question.

Osborne Reynolds is considered one of the most influential and foundational contributors to the field of fluid dynamics, though naming a single person the “greatest” is subjective. His work fundamentally shaped modern engineering and physics and remains central to the study of fluid flow today.

Key Contributions to Fluid Dynamics

Reynolds’ most significant achievements include:

  • The Reynolds Number: He identified a crucial dimensionless parameter (now named the Reynolds number) that determines whether fluid flow is laminar (smooth and orderly) or turbulent (chaotic and eddying). This number is a foundational concept used across all engineering and physical sciences.
  • The Theory of Turbulence: In an 1895 paper, he established the standard mathematical framework used in the study of turbulence, introducing what is known as the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations.
  • Experimental Validation: His elegant, yet simple, dye experiments visually demonstrated the transition between flow regimes, providing clear empirical evidence for his theories.
  • Theory of Lubrication: He developed the Reynolds equation in 1886, which still underpins the analysis of hydrodynamic lubrication in modern bearings.
  • Heat Transfer and Similitude: His research into heat transfer between solids and fluids led to significant improvements in boiler and condenser designs, and his work on hydraulic similitude enables engineers to use scaled-down models (e.g., in wind tunnels for aircraft design) to predict the performance of full-scale machines. 
A Legacy That Endures
While other figures like Archimedes (who established hydrostatics) and the individuals behind the Navier-Stokes equations also made monumental contributions, Reynolds’ work is distinguished by its practical application and enduring relevance. He effectively bridged the gap between theoretical analysis and experimental validation, providing engineers with practical tools that remain essential a century later. 
Ultimately, his foundational insights into the nature of fluid flow make him a truly pioneering figure in the history of science and engineering.
Students at the University of Manchester are still taught on his equipment.

How Many Good Ideas Did The Covids Delay?

It could be that the roll-out of Respimat for was delayed by the Covids!

But it wouldn’t have been the only idea to have been delayed in that way!

 

 

December 18, 2025 Posted by | Artificial Intelligence, Health | , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Do Dry Eyes Make It Difficult To See?

My first eye test was performed by a friend’s father in a shed in his garden.

But he was a retired senior eye surgeon from Ipswich Hospital.

He told me, that I had the driest eyes he’d ever seen and that he didn’t think I’d ever be able to wear contact lenses.

The second part of his statement has proved to be true, but what does Google AI think of the first part?

I asked Google AI, the question in the title of this post and received this answer.

Yes, dry eyes can make it difficult to see, causing temporary blurred vision that often improves with blinking. This happens because the tear film, which keeps the eye’s surface lubricated, is insufficient or of poor quality, which affects focus. Dry eyes can also lead to other vision problems, such as sensitivity to light and reduced contrast sensitivity.

That certainly fits my experience.

I find that having a hot bath every morning and putting my head under water and then opening my eyes and giving them a good rinse. This was recommended to me, by an ophthalmologist and then approved by my GP.

October 27, 2025 Posted by | Health | , , | Leave a comment

Can A Glass Of Orange Juice Act As A Laxative?

I’ve just had a dramatic demonstration that it does work, so I asked Google AI, the question in the title of this post and I received the following answer.

Yes, a glass of orange juice can act as a mild laxative due to its fiber content (especially with pulp) and the flavonoid naringenin, which may have a laxative effect. It also provides hydration, which is crucial for soft, regular bowel movements.

As, in this weather with low pressure, I seem to be suffering from constipation more than usual, I’ll make sure I always have orange juice in the fridge.

Orange juice is also a good alternative, as in Can You Take A Dulcolax With Uncomplicated Pancolonic Diverticular Disease?, I found I couldn’t take my usual laxative, as I have been diagnosed with uncomplicated pancolonic diverticular disease.

October 26, 2025 Posted by | Food, Health | , , , , | Leave a comment

Does Low Barometric Pressure Lower Blood Pressure?

I’m writing this post, as the barometric pressure has been low for a few days and my blood pressure has been as follows.

  • Friday – 109/81/80
  • Saturday – 120/47/78
  • Sunday – 123/84/77
  • Monday – 114/54/81
  • Tuesday – 118/80/73
  • Wednesday – 105/75/84
  • Thursday – 108/81/74
  • Friday – 107/56/70

The pressure had been going up and down all week, with two storms and quite a bit of rain.

So I asked Google AI the question in the title of this post and received this answer.

Yes, low barometric pressure can sometimes lower blood pressure, particularly systolic blood pressure, though the relationship can be complex and varies by individual and season. Studies have shown an inverse relationship, meaning as barometric pressure drops, blood pressure can also decrease. However, other factors can also influence this, and some research suggests a more complex “U-shaped” relationship where both very low and very high pressures may be associated with changes in blood pressure.

That’s fairly conclusive.

This paper on the National Library of Medicine, which was entitled Evaluation Of The Impact Of Atmospheric Pressure In Different Seasons On Blood Pressure In Patients With Arterial Hypertension, is referenced.

October 24, 2025 Posted by | Health | , | Leave a comment

Can B12 Injections Improve Eyesight?

i had one of my three-monthly B12 injections today and my eyesight seems better.

So I asked Google AI, the title of this post and received this answer.

Yes, B12 injections can improve eyesight if vision problems are caused by a vitamin B12 deficiency. Injections can help reverse vision loss associated with B12 deficiency, such as in cases of optic neuropathy. They may also help lower the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration, though this is linked to maintaining sufficient vitamin levels rather than treating existing vision loss.

Note that when I typed the question into Google, Google appeared to predict I might type it.

As my hearing seems better, whilst, I’m watching  the television, I repeated the question with hearing and received this answer.

B12 injections may improve hearing for individuals with a B12 deficiency, particularly those with tinnitus, because low levels can damage nerves in the ear. For people without a deficiency, evidence suggests B12 injections have little to no effect on hearing. Studies show that B12 supplementation can reduce the severity of tinnitus in those who are deficient.

I shall keep having the injections.

October 22, 2025 Posted by | Health | , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Is It Advantageous For Student Doctors To See Patients Earlier In Their Careers?

I’m asking this for a friend.

I asked Google AI the question in the title of this post and received this answer.

Yes, it is advantageous for student doctors to see patients earlier, as it can increase motivation and confidence, provide a better theoretical understanding, and help them develop clinical and communication skills earlier. Early patient contact also helps students build professional identity, gain comfort with patient encounters, and better understand the realities of being a physician, which can also improve patient experiences and facilitate the transition to becoming a junior doctor

That all sounds pretty sensible to me.

These are some thoughts.

Could The Same Philosophy Be Used For Other Health Professionals Like Nurses, Pharmacists And Radiographers?

I don’t see why not!

I actually feel, this philosophy might be already being used by the City University, who train radiographers at Homerton Hospital in Hackney.

I Was Used By University College For Interview Practice

A few years ago, I spent four nights in University College Hospital.

  • I had my own single room.
  • They wanted to do a few more tests.
  • So one of the Senior Tutors asked if I’d mind being interviewed by student doctors for practice.

As I said, I wouldn’t mind, I was interviewed by four student doctors over two nights.

It certainly relieved some of my boredom and at least two of the students had never met a coeliac before.

Conclusion

I believe this patient/student interaction could be used very much to the advantage of both groups.

 

October 21, 2025 Posted by | Health | , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Can You Take A Dulcolax With Uncomplicated Pancolonic Diverticular Disease?

I was suffering from constipation this morning, as the low barometric pressure was drawing the water out of my body.

So I wondered if I could safely take one of my usual Dulcolax tablets.

I asked Google AI, the question in the title of this post and received this reply.

You should not take Dulcolax with uncomplicated pancolonic diverticular disease, especially during a flare-up, without first consulting a healthcare provider. Stimulant laxatives like Dulcolax can be risky and may cause issues, such as gastrointestinal problems or increased risk of perforation. Instead, a healthcare provider will likely recommend consulting them for advice on which constipation treatments, if any, are appropriate, such as bulk-forming laxatives if your diet is insufficient.

I didn’t take any Dulcolax tablets.

But I’ve just hydrated myself with a bottle of Adnams Ghost Ship 0.5% Beer and it did the trick!

October 21, 2025 Posted by | Food, Health | , , , , , | 1 Comment

Can Uncomplicated Pancolonic Diverticular Disease Make My Left Foot Go Red?

In My Unusual Feet, which I wrote in February 2022, I showed this typical picture of my feet.

Note how the left foot is redder than the right.

This prompted me to ask Google AI, the question in the title of this post and I received this answer.

No, uncomplicated pancolonic diverticular disease itself is not likely to cause a red left foot, though it’s possible for pain to radiate to the legs. A red foot would be a symptom of a different issue, and could be related to complications from the diverticular disease, such as sepsis (a severe infection), or another unrelated condition like poor circulation or an infection. It’s important to see a doctor to determine the cause of the red foot and rule out a more serious problem, especially if you have symptoms like fever or severe pain.

As sepsis is mentioned, if it happens again, I’ll see a health professional.

October 21, 2025 Posted by | Health | , , , | Leave a comment