StemCell Therapy

Longstanding research has found that exercise that increases our cardiovascular activity brings a number of health benefits, including lowered blood pressure; improved cardiovascular health; strengthening of the immune system; regulation of weight; and moderation of blood sugar. Interestingly, it appears that vigorous aerobic activity (maintaining more than 60% of aerobic capacity) brings greater cardiovascular health benefit than moderate activity. Exercise therapy has been found to improve a measure called heart rate variability, which is associated with greater levels of psychological well-being and resilience in the face of stress. One strand of research finds that aerobic exercise conducted in a mindful state (i.e., with enhanced self-awareness, such as yoga and Feldenkrais) brings greater mood benefits than routine vigorous or moderate cardio workouts. Many of the activities we associate with self-development, from counseling and psychotherapy to meditation, are pursued in a state of reduced physical activity and enhanced self-awareness. Might it be the case that vigorous aerobic activity is an equally promising path toward emotional well-being and a positive psychology?

According to the National Institutes of Healths National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, yoga, a discipline of meditative movement is associated with such benefits as stress relief, pain reduction, and emotional well-being. There is also evidence that yoga also improves the aforementioned heart rate variability and lessens symptoms of depression. In an excellent review article, Julia Belluz notes the limitations of much of the research on the benefits of yoga, but cites fascinating evidence that yoga may be uniquely helpful in reducing inflammation in the body. Similar amounts of time spent in yoga and general physical activity yield greater inflammation benefit for the yoga participants, presumably because of the added components of mindfulness.

In a review of brief approaches to psychotherapy that I conducted with two colleagues at SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, an important conclusion was that these methods are effective to the degree that they generate novel, constructive experiences for clients. Such corrective emotional experiences deal with maladaptive patterns of emotion and behavior by activating more constructive ones. Thus, for instance, when a client retreats from a therapist out of fear of rejection, the therapist may encourage engagement and provide an active experience of acceptance and understanding. Such emotional experiences are readily internalized, helping people build new modes of construing and doing. This is the basis for many behavioral and cognitive therapies, where we learn to face and challenge our patterns of anxiety, negative thinking, and depression in emotionally impactful ways.

The unexpected benefits of aerobic exercise, yoga, and similar disciplines may arise from their ability to provide similar corrective emotional experiences, albeit outside of a therapeutic relationship. Through vigorous exercise, we directly challenge our limits and experience ourselves as efficacious and achieving. Through mindful movement, we experience enhanced levels of self-control and mastery. A great example of this occurs among the money managers and traders I work with, who make active use of meditation to deal with the stresses of markets and their inherent risks and uncertainty. In the midst of threat, direct experiences of calm and focus promote a unique experience of the self as being in control, facilitating sound decision-making. Exercise, like coaching, counseling, and psychotherapy, is a vehicle for generating fresh experiences of the self, reinforcing and expanding our strengths.

In recent articles, Ive explored the psychological benefits of living a purposeful life and the importance of emotionally connecting with a positive vision of our future selves. All of these can be paths toward emotional resilience, increased mindfulness, and an enhanced capacity to pursue life goals. In a recent interview, Steven Goldstein and Mark Randall explore the mindfulness associated with special forces operations, highlighting the idea of mindfitness. A well-constructed program of exercise, expanding our abilities to extend our limits and sustain self-control and efficacy, provides a uniquely effective form of self-developmenta promising therapy for the mentally well and program for mindfitness.

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The Unexpected Psychological Benefits Of Aerobic Fitness - Forbes

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. In a Patriots locker room thats battling widespread illness recently and plenty of injuries during the season, quarterback Tom Brady said hes managed to stay unaffected.

Im a pretty healthy guy. Cant avoid it all the time. I try to for the most part. I keep my immune system nice and strong if possible, he said Friday as the Patriots prepare for Sunday nights game at Houston.

His immune system might be able to stop the flu, but it cant hold off opposing defenders.

I wouldnt be in the self-preservation business if I was trying to be a football player, said Brady, who is expected to play Sunday. Youre going to get hit. You just have to understand thats part of the game. You have to understand when they blitz, you dont have as much time to throw. So you have to throw the ball a little quicker. ... Taking hits is part of it. My whole objective is standing there and trying to get the ball to someone who can do something with it.

He said throwing the ball away is more about protecting a drive and protecting possession than protecting himself.

Im throwing it away because I dont want to take a sack, Brady said. I think negative plays actually have a big impact on the game. Turnovers and negative plays I think really keep you from winning games. So, if you can drop-back pass, because Im not really a scrambler ... But, if Im going to hold it back there, then usually good things arent going to happen. So, I try to throw the ball away to save plays and live for the next down.

Pats getting healthier

All that Vitamin C is finally paying off for the Patriots. After a flu bug ripped through their locker room eight players missed Wednesdays practice with illness they were almost at full strength for Fridays walkthrough.

Kyle Van Noy was a new absence, and Ryan Izzo has been out all week with the flu. One of the leagues best linebackers, Van Noy will be sorely missed if he isnt good to go by Sunday.

Donta Hightower, Isaiah Wynn and JoeJuan Williams all returned. All three players were healthy enough for Fridays walkthrough. The biggest takeaway from Friday: The Patriots seem to have weathered the worst of their flu bug.

Players listened to an assortment of college football fight songs on Friday. With rivalry games all weekend, the Patriots were listening to band songs. Tom Brady pumped his fist when Michigans The Victors began.

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Hey, Brady's healthy; Pats' Hightower, Wynn return to practice - The Union Leader

Despite the fact that we live in a highly advanced technological society, when it comes to important things like health and nutrition, a lot of people are still willing to take most of their advice from bloggers and social media influencers who have little to no scientific training. This is especially true when it comes to gut health and the gut microbiome. Luckily, the scientists and researchers at Viome are on a mission to change all that.

Over the past few decades, the scientific community has made some incredible advancements in our understanding of the human gut microbiome. We now know, for example, that the complex community of bacteria and other microorganisms that live in our digestive tract affects almost every system in the body, including the digestive system, immune system, and cardiovascular system. There have also been studies that specifically link gut health to a number of human diseases and conditions, such as diabetes, obesity, irritable bowel syndrome, and colon cancer. But how do we put this information to use?

A lot of people have been led to believe that you can ward off all these illnesses and conditions simply by eating a bunch of exotic fermented foods you saw on Instagram. Unfortunately, thats like throwing a bunch of random ingredients into a pot and hoping they turn into your favorite soup. The stuff you put into the pot might be delicious, but different soups call for different ingredients.

Similarly, one of the most important things weve learned about the human gut microbiome in recent years is that everyone is totally unique. Thus, whats good for one gut isnt necessarily whats good for the next. Thats why, if you want to get serious about gut health, you need to start by taking the Gut Intelligence Test by Viome.

At Viome, their goal is to take the guesswork out of building a healthy gut. To do that, theyve created the worlds most scientifically advanced microbiome test.

A microbiome test is like a DNA test, only instead of mapping out genes, it maps out the specific strains of bacteria and other microorganisms that live in your digestive tract. What makes Viomes test superior to any others currently available is its proprietary microbe identification technology and its advanced analytics engine.

Viome is the only company in the world that uses advanced metatranscriptomic sequencing technology, which was originally developed at the Los Alamos National Laboratory for national security purposes. This technology helps them identify and quantify all the strains and species of microorganisms in your gut and determine exactly how active they all are. Then Viome runs all this data through an advanced AI algorithm called VIE, which uses a massive and continually growing database of information to come up with personalized nutrition recommendations.

When your gut microbiome is out of balance, your body doesnt absorb nutrients the way it should. It can also produce toxins that cause inflammation, which scientists now realize is at the root of almost every chronic disease. The foods Viome recommends are intended to stimulate your microbiome so that it maximizes the production of healthy nutrients and minimizes the production of toxins.

With the Gut Intelligence Test by Viome, you dont have to go to a cold sterile lab to be poked and prodded. The entire process is pain-free and takes place in the comfort of your own home. Once you place your order, Viome will send you an easy to use, non-invasive at-home kit to collect your sample. Then you simply return your sample using the postage-paid box provided, and Viome will process it and send you the results.

With Viome, all test results and dietary recommendations come with detailed explanations, and all of them are conveniently delivered straight to your phone via the Viome mobile app, which makes them incredibly easy to put into action.

The default reports and recommendations are aimed at increasing microorganism species associated with overall wellness and decreasing species typically associated with poor health. However, you can also customize your recommendations based on specific health and wellness goals, including weight loss, better sleep, or increased mental clarity.

Viome does not promise that everyone who takes their test will see the same level of results because not all health and wellness issues can be fixed by diet alone. What Viome does promise is a better, more scientific understanding of whats going on in your body.

Right now, Viomes Gut Intelligence Test is 62 percent off the regular price. If youre tired at guessing about matters related to your health and wellness, order your test from Viome today.

Futurism fans: To create this content, a non-editorial team worked with Viome, who is offering Futurism readers $20 off with code FUTURISM. They help us keep the lights on, and Futurism may receive a commission from sales. This post does not reflect the views or the endorsement of the Futurism.com editorial staff.

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Unlock the Mysteries of Your Gut Microbiome With Viome's Gut Intelligence Test - Futurism

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Findings, in mice, could guide research into future therapies

A new study led by Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis reveals details about how gut microbes interact with norovirus infection in the mouse gut. The research opens up new ways of thinking about potential therapies for this intestinal infection. Shown are Norovirus particles.

The highly contagious norovirus causes diarrhea and vomiting and is notorious for spreading rapidly through densely populated spaces, such as cruise ships, nursing homes, schools and day care centers. Each year, it is responsible for some 200,000 deaths, mostly in the developing world. There are no treatments for this intestinal virus, often incorrectly referred to as stomach flu.

Now, a new study led by scientists at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis has shown that gut microbes can tamp down or boost the severity of norovirus infection based on where along the intestine the virus takes hold.

The study, published Nov. 25 in the journal Nature Microbiology, suggests new routes to possible therapies for norovirus infection. Collaborators included researchers at the University of Florida, the University of Michigan and Yale University Medical School.

There are currently no treatments for norovirus, which is very easily spread through fecal-oral transmission, said co-senior author Megan T. Baldridge, MD, PhD, an assistant professor of medicine at Washington University. Norovirus is especially dangerous in young children, older adults and people with compromised immune systems. We are trying to understand how the gut microbes interact with norovirus in an effort to pursue new therapeutic strategies.

In these mouse studies, the researchers found that normal gut bacteria boosted the severity of viral infection in the lower small intestine, which is in line with past work in the field. But simultaneously, normal gut bacteria blocked or inhibited viral infection in the upper small intestine. In other words, gut microbes can have totally opposite effects on norovirus infection depending on the infections location along the length of the gut.

These results were a huge surprise to us, Baldridge said. We showed that different parts of the intestine can show dramatically different responses to this type of infection. Our research reveals that we cant view the gut as a homogeneous tube that responds to infection in a uniform way.

Baldridge and her colleagues found that the difference in response was driven by bile acids, which are mainly known for their roles in digestion.

Bile acids are powerfully regulated by bacteria all along the gut, Baldridge said. But there had not been a realization that these bile acids could prime the gut to mount an immune response against intestinal viruses.

In the new study, the researchers showed that bile acids in the upper small intestine but not the lower stimulated the immune system to respond to the infection. The researchers determined that bile acids in that region of the gut triggered a molecule called interferon III one of the bodys key antiviral defenses in the intestine to become activated.

Baldridge noted that this complexity of interactions between gut microbes and bile acids could explain some of the variability seen in norovirus infections. Some people become extremely ill with this virus; others develop no symptoms at all.

The different ways people respond to viral infections could be related to their individual gut microbial community, Baldridge said. The severity of an infection could be tied to where exactly along the gut you get an infection, and that might be controlled by your individual microbiome. Subtle differences along the intestine could end up having dramatic effects on how the gut perceives the virus and responds to it.

Baldridge also said that this changes how researchers might think about strategies to protect against or treat norovirus infection. They might seek ways to expand the immune interferon signaling that they observed only in the upper small intestine such that it extends along the entire length of the gut, for example.

She and her colleagues are planning more studies to help investigate whether there may be ways to manipulate the gut environment through bile acids or the microbiome itself to stimulate the immune system in ways that could shut down norovirus infection.

This work was supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), grant numbers R01AI116892, R01AI081921, R01AI141478, R01AI141478, K22 AI127846-01, P30 DK052574, R21 AI103961, T90DE021990, T32DK094775, K08 AI28043; the Global Probiotics Councils Young Investigator Grant for Probiotics Research; the University of Michigan Host-Microbiome Initiative; and the Burroughs Wellcome Fund.

Grau KR, Zhu S, Peterson ST, Winesett E, Philip D, Phillips M, Hernandez A, Turula H, Frasse P, Graziano VR, Wilen CB, Wobus CE, Baldridge MT, Karst SM. The intestinal regionalization of acute norovirus infection is regulated by the microbiota via bile acid-mediated priming of type III interferon. Nature Microbiology. Nov. 25, 2019.

Washington University School of Medicines 1,500 faculty physicians also are the medical staff of Barnes-Jewish and St. Louis Childrens hospitals. The School of Medicine is a leader in medical research, teaching and patient care, ranking among the top 10 medical schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. Through its affiliations with Barnes-Jewish and St. Louis Childrens hospitals, the School of Medicine is linked to BJC HealthCare.

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Gut microbes alter characteristics of norovirus infection - Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis

Sarah Ross guessed it was leukemia long before the doctors confirmed it. Five years ago, she had been feeling lousy in a way she had never experienced before. When a blood test came back with some indicators pointing to the disease, Ross stalled for a while before doing a follow-up.

In her heart, she said, she already knew what was happening. Ross, who had worked for years as a veterinarian's technician, would eventually need a bone marrow transplant at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. She has spent the last few years in recovery, receiving treatment for some related complications.

A few days ago, lost in thought after an appointment at Roswell, she was headed toward a lobby exit lobby when any worries or fatigue vanished from her mind. Her stride accelerated as she made a sharp pivot, and she asked her mother, Frances Ross, to wait for just one minute.

Ross had spotted Bella, which meant the dog was doing her job even before Ross, of Tonawanda, realized just how much they have in common.

Bella is a Weimaraner, a memorable breed whose striking appearance has led to the nickname of "gray ghost." About three years ago, the dog moved in with Sue and Shane Currey of Tonawanda after their dog, Sophie, another Weimaraner, died at 11. Bella came to them from a breeder near Erie, Pa. he called the dog Bertha, a name the Curreys decided to change and made her available for adoption.

She is perfect, it turns out, for the role she plays at Roswell.

In the lobby, Ross made a beeline to the dog, who wore a bright red bandana. She asked Currey if it was OK to say hello, then dropped onto her knees, where a few strokes of velvet fur and the dog's long ears quickly shifted into a full embrace.

Ross loves animals. She explained how she often distracts herself during appointments at Roswell by thinking of her rabbits, Quake and Thunder, and she offered a gentle gasp when she heard Bella's story.

The dog is also a cancer survivor.

Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center patient Donato Morgante gets a kiss from Bella at the hospital as Bella's owner Sue Currey, left and Jacquie Morgante, Donato's mother, enjoy the moment. (Mark Mulville/Buffalo News)

Sue Currey, an executive assistant at Roswell, had seen the difference therapy dogs can make for patients. Sue dreamed someday of bringing in her own dog for those duties. Bella went through a sequence of training sessions, tests and community interactions to become one of roughly a dozen dogs who provide that service at Roswell, which Bella did even before the Curreys knew about her illness.

Bella, it turns out, had a form of cancer that required the surgical removal over the summer of six malignant tumors. Sue, for a while, feared for Bella's life. But the dog recovered quickly from surgery, and she was back to her rounds at Roswell by this fall.

Ross, her forehead pressed against Bella's soft fur, was not surprised at the tale.

"Dogs and kids," she said. "They put no limitations on themselves."

Dr. Philip McCarthy, director of Roswell's blood and marrow transplant program, said the demeanor of each dog is critically important. Any scratch or bite from a restless or anxious animal could lead to infections for patients with fragile immune systems, he said.

When you find such dogs as Bella, animals of serene and soulful demeanor?

In that case, McCarthy said, they often "emanate good feelings and unconditional love."

[Related: Sean Kirst: Cancer survivor rides for Roswell and for the doctor who saved him]

"The effect these dogs have is amazing," said Barb Lenahan, who certifies the animals as part of Therapy Dogs International.

From the lobby, Sue and Bella followed Jim Hickey, a Roswell volunteer, through the hospital corridors, where the dog touched off lightning transformations. Doctors, nurses, patients, weary relatives: They crouched down, tired faces instantly softening. They spoke in familiar, quiet tones to Bella, whose curious eyes did a long study of each of them.

[Related: Murphy, the therapy dog, spreads joy at Oishei Children's Hospital, Roswell Park]

The point made by Ross about childhood resilience was evident in a reception area for the pediatric clinic. When Bella entered the room, Owen Chase of South Buffalo, a 5-year-old in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles pajamas, was tugging around a rolling IV, followed by his mother, Colleen.

She and her husband, Michael, learned of Owen's leukemia more than 11 months ago, just before Christmas, and the child is now receiving "infusions of chemo," Colleen said. He is doing well, and Colleen said the couple is buoyed each day by an avalanche of love and support.

"A lot of families," she said, "go through a lot worse."

Owen and Bella stood eye to eye, and the little boy whose dog at home, Gemma, often sleeps on his bed dropped his hand delicately onto the dog's neck. After a moment or two of communion, Bella turned to walk directly into a nose-to-nose encounter with 1-year-old Donato Morgante.

Not long ago, Jacquie and Joe Morgante of Clarence learned their child had a grapefruit-sized growth on his kidney, the result of a rare childhood cancer known as Wilms tumor. That sent him into surgery, and then chemotherapy.

"He's been really good with all of it," said Jacquie, who talked it over with Joe and then stayed home with their son on Thanksgiving, because his system remains too vulnerable for a big family crowd.

Owen Chase, left, who is at Roswell Park for leukemia treatment, and his mother, Colleen Chase, visit with Bella and her owner Sue Currey, in the pediatric unit at the hospital. (Mark Mulville/Buffalo News)

When the toddler saw Bella, there was instantly no Roswell, no chemo, no waiting room. It was only Donato and this dog with ears as soft as Hush Puppies.

"Fantastic," Jacquie said. "It just relieves all the stress."

The response was the same for Krista Gabler, a Florida resident and native of West Seneca who has spent two months in Buffalo while her mother, Sandy Mussehl, receives radiation treatment for cancer of the tongue. Gabler had just stepped through the door of a waiting room, fatigue in her expression, when she noticed Bella approaching in the corridor.

Instantly, Gabler dropped down, bowed her head and placed it alongside the dog's.

"I needed something uplifting today," she said.

Brendon Edwards shared in that communion. At 14, he is a freshman at Frewsburg High School in Chautauqua County, a teen who loves football and has played on youth teams since he was in grade school. His favorite Buffalo Bill, he said, is Dawson Knox, an interesting choice: Brendon picked a rookie, not one of the big names on that ascending squad, a guy whose quiet contributions are filling a hole.

Bella wandered straight to Brendon, who had thrown himself deep into the soft cushions of a couch. The kid began petting the dog and scratching her neck, and boy and dog stayed that way for a long time while the adults around them talked.

His aunt, Brandy Davies, said she figured it was just a bug when Brendon had some stomach problems this autumn. She took him to a doctor. It was colon cancer, and it had already started to spread. Brendon is now in chemotherapy at Roswell, where his love for football is a kind of gleaming template, with his goal of playing again a central theme as he receives each treatment.

The teenager has always loved dogs, Brandy said, and Bella clearly sensed this was a guy who understood. At Roswell, the dog flipped onto her back and allowed him to scratch her stomach, revealing the scars from her own cancer surgery.

Asked for his dream in life, Brendon replied, "Beating this."

The proof that it can happen watched him speak, and wagged her tail.

Sean Kirst is a columnist with The Buffalo News. Email him at skirst@buffnews.com or read more of his work in this archive.

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Column: At Roswell, dog that beat cancer provides joy and comfort to patients - Buffalo News

Hilary celebrated Thanksgiving with her family (Picture: NBCU Photobank/Getty Images)

Hilary Duff made sure to spend some quality family time as she celebrated Thanksgiving and it looks like one family member was enjoying eating something that is not considered edible.

Her youngest daughter, Banks, 13 months, thought it was funny to eat some dirt rather than turkey which is what most Americans eat at the dinner table for Thanksgiving.

Taking to Instagram, Hilary shared an adorable picture of her alongside partner Matthew Koma, and her oldest kid, seven-year-old Luca and of course, Banks, with dirt all over her face.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING, she wrote. Banks just ate dirt.

As you do.

Banks you ate better than me today!!!! one fan wrote in the comments.

All that good food and you eat dirt, Banks, LOL, another added.

Banks is my spirit animal, another fan commented.

And one fan actually thought that the dirt on Banks face was a speck of dirt on their phone screen.

I kept trying to wipe my screen thinking it had something on it, they wrote.

But then I read your caption, Banks is building up her immune system.

Hilary is no stranger to sharing the love and appreciation she has for her kids on social media and more recently, she found herself struggling to help Luca with his school homework as she claimed she left real school in the third grade.

View this post on Instagram

This guy with his spirit and kindness?Homework is already no joke in 2nd grade. I stopped going to “real” school in 3rd grade so I’m actually doomed... I am left scratching my head alll the time looking at his homework and I’m terrified for next year! Although Singapore math is the shit....also learned a lot about tick birds this week. #rhinosbegrateful

A post shared by Hilary Duff (@hilaryduff) on Oct 19, 2019 at 7:09pm PDT

Taking to Instagram, she shared a selfie of her and Luca at the table while in the middle of hitting the books.

This guy with his spirit and kindness. Homework is already no joke in 2nd grade, she wrote.

I stopped going to real school in 3rd grade so Im actually doomedI am left scratching my head all the time looking at his homework and Im terrified for next year!

In the meantime, the 32-year-old has been currently busy filming for the upcoming Lizzie McGuire revival and her co-star Adam Lamberg, who played David Gordo Gordin, will also be making a return.

If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page - we'd love to hear from you.

MORE: X Factor: Celebrity confirms all acts are getting paid after confusion from Drag Races The Vivienne

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Hilary Duff's daughter Banks gets dirt on her face in Thanksgiving pic - Metro.co.uk

The holiday season is a time for decorations, presents and winter getaways. Its also when you and everyone you know gets sick. Yes, flu and cold season are upon us, and those nasty viruses never seem to care if you have travel plans. But should you be pushing through and getting on a plane if youre feeling sick?

As you head off on your holiday travel, the last thing you want to experience is a health emergency in the air where you cant get medical attention, Dr. Nate Favini, medical lead at Forward (a membership-based preventive care clinic), told The Points Guy. Theres also the risk of getting kicked off your flight and, of course, you dont want to spread an infection to other passengers.

In fact, according to theJournal of Environmental Health Research, you are 100 times more likely to catch a cold on a plane. And the Wall Street Journal previously cited a study that said the likelihood increases by 20%. So many people got sick at once during a 2008 flight from Boston (BOS) to Los Angeles (LAX) after an ill passenger with norovirus boarded that the plane actually made an emergency landing three hours into the trip.

With this in mind, we consulted several experts to learn how to tell when youre too sick to fly, for your sake as well as the safety of other passengers.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter.

A good rule of thumb is to never fly when you have a fever, according to New York-based internist Dr. Frank Contacessa. Of course, this would include having the flu. In addition to the obvious risk of spreading your germs, the cabin environment is not a friendly place when you are sick, he said. Having a fever, in general, will accelerate fluid loss from your body. The very low humidity of the cabin air will dehydrate you even faster. Dehydration makes you feel even worse, increasing weakness, headaches, lightheadedness, etc.

Sure, there might be vomit bags in the seatback pocket. But you probably shouldnt be using them if youre throwing up before you get on the plane. If you have a fever over 100.4 degrees or are experiencing vomiting, theres a really good chance that youre contagious, said Favini. Airlines have been known to remove passengers who are experiencing these symptoms.

Related: Its flu season heres how to avoid getting sick on a plane

Another potential problem can arise if you have a lower respiratory infection such as bronchitis or pneumonia. The pressurized cabin air has less oxygen, which can make you feel short of breath if your airways are already inflamed from an infection, said Contacessa.

Favini added, Flying is stressful on your body and your immune system in particular, so it can reduce your ability to fight off an infection. The air onboard is incredibly dry, and even healthy people end up extremely dehydrated at the end of their flight. You may end up being sicker or sick for longer because of flying while ill.

If you have the flu and youre still experiencing any symptoms, including fever, cough, runny nose, congestion, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, you are still contagious and should avoid flying, according to Favini. The CDC states that people with flu are most contagious in the first 3 to 4 days after their illness begins.

Not only are you able to infect someone up to six feet away, but you could also feel horrendous on the plane. Anyone who has flown with sinus congestion will agree that the headache can be unbearable, Contacessa added. So, having a fever and sinus congestion should be good reasons to ask for a medical note from your doctor to change your flight reservation.

Related: How to boost your immune system so you dont get sick while traveling

Do you know how your ears sometimes pop during taking off or landing? Well, if you have ear pain and pressure, then that brief moment of discomfort can become severe. The changes in pressure during the flight can cause your eardrum to burst if you have an ear infection and its not properly treated before you take off, said Favini.

Even if you dont have the sniffles or more obvious symptoms of being sick, there is one tell-tale warning sign that you absolutely shouldnt fly. If you do, you could experience a serious medical emergency.

If youre experiencing chest pain or a racing heartbeat, especially if this is new or severe, dont get on your flight, said Favini. This can be a sign of a life-threatening medical condition, and even if the pilot does land your flight, it might not be fast enough for you to get the help you need. The same goes for shortness of breath.

Related: The best travel insurance policies and providers

Ok, lets say youve determined youre too sick to fly. When can you reschedule your trip?

If you do change your plans and postpone your trip, you should wait until you have been without a fever for at least 24 to 48 hours, said Contacessa. If you are recovering from the flu, you should wear a mask to protect your fellow travelers. If in doubt, use your common sense. If you think that you are too sick, stay home.

Featured photo by Roos-Koole/Getty Images.

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How to tell when youre too sick to fly - The Points Guy

Pain under the left armpit can be concerning, and many people associate any pain on the left side of their body with a heart attack. However, most of the time, pain under the left armpit has a less serious cause.

The armpit is a complex meeting point for muscles and connective tissues, lymph nodes, and blood vessels. As such, many issues in this area can lead to pain.

Causes range from pulled muscles and mild allergic reactions to more severe issues, such as an underlying infection.

While many of the causes of left armpit pain are not harmful in the long term, anyone experiencing breathing difficulties and pain in their chest, jaw, or neck should see a doctor immediately.

Causes of left armpit pain include:

Many muscles around the shoulder and armpit can cause pain if a person injures them.

People can pull a muscle when reaching for an object, twisting incorrectly, or overstretching.

People who exercise regularly, especially those who do weight training, may be more likely to experience muscle pulls and strains.

In these cases, the pain should go away over time, as long as the individual rests the injured muscle and does gentle stretches.

If the pain does not go away after about a week, it is best to see a doctor.

Armpits are a frequent location for allergic reactions, which could cause pain under the left armpit or both armpits.

Most allergic reactions in this area will occur due to chemicals people apply to their bodies or clothes that touch the armpits.

Possible allergens include:

These products may contain chemicals or perfumes that irritate the skin. A rash may also form.

Anyone who suspects that their skin is sensitive to a particular allergen should note the products they used that day and report them to a dermatologist.

Allergy testing may help find the irritating product. Avoiding products with any harsh chemicals or other ingredients can also improve symptoms in these cases.

Simple cosmetic procedures, such as shaving or waxing, can also be to blame for pain under the armpit. These hair removal techniques may lead to other issues, such as ingrown hairs, cysts, or general irritation and chafing in the armpit.

A skin infection under the armpit may cause itching and pain. Bacteria thrive in warm, damp environments such as the armpits.

An overgrowth of bacteria in this area may lead to an infection, which could cause redness, swelling, and pain, among other symptoms.

Other forms of infection, such as fungal infections due to ringworm or yeast, may also cause similar pain and irritation in the area.

Mild skin infections should clear up without treatment if a person keeps the area clean and dry. However, a doctor may recommend antibiotic creams or medications to treat more severe cases.

Hidradenitis is a chronic condition that causes similar symptoms to severe acne. Hidradenitis occurs due to clogged hair follicles and glands. It is common in areas such as the armpits, where the skin rubs together.

Hidradenitis can lead to multiple cysts or boils developing in the area. In addition to these breakouts, the person will likely experience pain and tenderness.

Doctors can treat hidradenitis with anti-inflammatory medications. Some cases may require surgery.

The varicella zoster virus causes chickenpox and shingles. Breakouts of both illnesses are possible under the armpits, although chickenpox usually begins on the face, back, and chest.

A shingles rash usually develops as a single strip on one side of the face or body, left or right. A person with shingles may also experience:

A person may feel pain and tingling in the area before the visible rash develops.

A doctor may prescribe antiviral medications to speed up the healing process, as well as pain medications to help ease symptoms.

Lymph nodes are small, bean shaped bundles of tissue that play a vital role in the immune system. Lymph nodes help filter toxins from the lymph and deliver white blood cells to help fight disease.

The armpit houses a large number of lymph nodes. Lymph nodes swell as part of an overall reaction by the immune system, such as to an infection or illness.

Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit may cause:

If the swelling does not go down after an infection, such as the common cold, goes away, or the person is not feeling any other symptoms, they should speak to a doctor.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that leads to an overgrowth of skin cells. The buildup of skin cells forms patches called plaques. These plaques can cause symptoms such as itching and pain.

Psoriasis plaques can form anywhere, including the armpit. Some forms of psoriasis are more common in this area, including inverse psoriasis.

Psoriasis treatment typically includes both topical and oral medications to control symptoms.

Nerve damage may also cause pain under the armpit. Nerve damage can be the result of a physical injury, such as one from overuse during sports or from an accident or fall.

Nerve damage can feel like:

Certain conditions, such as diabetes, may also lead to nerve damage or neuropathy. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases note that up to half of people with diabetes have peripheral neuropathy, which is nerve damage.

While peripheral neuropathy typically affects the feet and legs, it may also affect the arms in some individuals. Diabetes treatment may help slow nerve damage progression.

Angina occurs due to a lack of oxygen-rich blood flow to the heart. This can be because one of the arteries leading to the heart is narrow or blocked.

Angina causes chest pain and discomfort, which is sometimes severe. It may also cause pressure and pain in other areas, including the:

Some people may also experience a feeling similar to indigestion.

Angina is a symptom of an underlying heart condition, for example, coronary heart disease, which can lead to a heart attack.

There are also many other types of angina. Anyone who suspects they have angina should talk to their doctor.

In rare cases, pain under the left armpit that does not go away may be a sign of a cancerous growth, including breast cancer.

Cancer can cause the lymph nodes under the armpit to swell painfully. An individual may notice a lump under their arm or in their armpit that causes persistent pain or discomfort.

Underarm pain may also be the result of a specific cancer treatment, such as lymph node removal or mastectomy.

Anyone noticing texture changes or lumps in their chest or breast tissue should seek medical attention.

Treatment options for cancer will depend on its stage, which refers to how much it has spread. In general, earlier stages are easier to treat.

Anyone noticing the following symptoms along with left armpit pain should seek immediate medical attention:

A doctor can also diagnose and treat pain from other issues, such as infections or swollen lymph nodes.

Pain under the left armpit from sources such as a pulled muscle should go away within about a week in most cases. Anyone who experiences symptoms beyond this time frame should see a doctor for a full diagnosis.

There are many possible causes of pain under the left armpit. The person may have pulled a muscle or may have swollen lymph nodes from an infection.

Other causes can be more serious, such as angina. Anyone concerned about their symptoms should see a doctor for a full diagnosis and treatment.

Originally posted here:

Pain under left armpit: Causes and what to do - Medical News Today

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INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. Local tennis coach Matt Moores eyesight has baffled the doctors whove treated him in the last few years. And while its cost him much of his vision, what hes gained is nothing short of miraculous.

Legendary tennis champion Martina Navratilova once said, the mark of great sportsmen is not how good they are at their best, but how good they are at their worst.

Ive dealt with some adversities in life but nothing like this, Matt Moore said.

Matt went on to play tennis at Hanover College where he studied social work. He went on to teach at Ball State University and tennis stayed in his life.

Its meant so much to me and the development of who I am as a person and the connections and friendships along the way, Moore said. Theres individual elements, theres still a sense of team that comes with it.

Matt translated those elements he learned as a player, to his time as a coach. First at Zionsville High School from 2009 to 2017, then at Butler University for two years.

In a sport like tennis youre trying to teach individuals how to think critically youre trying to teach them about technique and tactic, but on the reverse end of that youre teaching them the values about taking care of their body physically and also preparing for what life is going to throw at you from a mental aspect, Moore said.

Life threw something at Matt midway through 2015. Something he could never have seen coming.

Matt was having a conversation with a colleague when he noticed something strange.

I looked at her and somethings not right, I see about 200 to 300 black floaters streaming right through my eye. Almost like a rain shower of floaters in the eye, where you couldnt count them, theres nothing to get rid of it. Look in one direction, look in the other it wasnt going to change it, Moore said.

A trip to the optometrist showed a tear in Matts retina. Later it detached. Its more common in older people. Matt was in his early 30s. He felt good about his odds.

But what followed, scared him.

Thats when you start to question man whats going on here, this is abnormal and its got doctors baffled, Moore said.

Matt went through eight surgeries on his left eye. Each time, another detachment.

Most of my procedures required that I lie face down 20 hours a day, Moore said. Its tougha lot of alone, isolated time that youre sitting there left to ponder the 'what ifs' in the world.

Matt's doctor says his ruptures were brought about extreme near-sightedness.

Then youre thinking, God I hope nothing goes wrong with this one, Moore said.

His doctors at the Midwest Eye Institute recommended he stop coaching, fearing an impact that would forever blind him.

Earl Allen was Matts assistant coach at Zionsville High School.

It was devastating, I mean, think about it, your professional career, your family life, the things you give up, how your life would change, Allen said.

Then, a year later, the unthinkable happened: a detachment in his healthy eye.

More surgery, more questions. And more vision loss.

I went several weeks, well over a month, with no vision at all, this eye had been removed, this eye had a 90% gas bubble, I couldnt see anything, Moore said.

And heres where our story turns. With the agony and uncertainty, Matt sought counseling to deal with the emotional and psychological trauma. And as he was learning how to face the unknown, he made a life-changing realization.

I drew the short straw I supposed at first, later you find out that sometimes these life challenges put you in a better position to have appreciation or respect for the things that are going on your life, Moore said. One thing I tried to keep perspective on, is even if you lose your vision its not life-threatening is it life-altering? Absolutely this whole experience is life-altering.

He wasnt just a tennis coach to me, that wouldnt do him justice, Nina Bertino said.

Nina Bertino played for Coach Moore her sophomore and junior years at Butler. When Nina learned about his condition, she organized an event at Pearson Automotive Tennis Center.

His life is all about serving other people, Bertino said. He had such an impact on me, and the minute I found out he was struggling, I wanted to make a difference. He understood how to respond to my negativity, pouting, all my emotions on court, he always knew the comforting words to say.

Now that comforting goes both ways.

You look for pick me ups and things that lift your spirit, Moore said, all these players came out, its phenomenal.

Matts in a better place now. Hes recovering from another surgery and the vision in his right eye is stable. He and wife Lindsay and their three kids, Brooklyn, Bronson and Maverick, and even visiting exchange student, Matilda are in the present.

It did take a toll on everyone, but we also tried for the kids to keep their lives as normal as possible, Lindsay Moore said.

And Matt, Dr. Moore, already a published author on sports social work has a few lessons worth sharing in an ongoing blog he wrote called Flashes of Light from Heaven.

For now, Matt is back at work teaching full time. He's able to drive during the day.

As he continues his recovery, he says he hopes to inspire not just athletes, but anyone who's living with a challenge they're trying to overcome.

Originally posted here:
Vision Quest: Taking a glimpse into the world of a man losing his vision - FOX 59 Indianapolis

Caring for patients eyes is an essential nursing skill. Nurses need to be able to carry out a baseline assessment of the eye and vision and deliver essential care including eye cleansing

Eyes should be assessed as part of a holistic patient assessment and eye care is an essential part of daily personal care. This article outlines the principles of eye assessment and the procedure for eye cleansing.

Citation: Gwenhure T, Shepherd E (2019) Principles and procedure for eye assessment and cleansing. Nursing Times [online]; 115: 12, 18-20.

Authors: Tendai Gwenhure is clinical educator, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust; Eileen Shepherd is clinical editor, Nursing Times.

The eyes have a vital role in helping us carry out our daily activities safely (Shaw, 2014). Light entering the eye is converted into nerve impulses that are transmitted to the occipital region of the brain, where they are converted into the images we see. Patients may present to hospital with pre-existing eye conditions or need help to care for their eyes during a period of illness. Nurses need to be able to:

The external structures of the eye (Fig 1) serve an important function in protecting the eye from injury. For example, the eyelashes provide a barrier to grit and debris and eyebrows prevent sweat from running into the eyes. Eyelids contain muscles that enable them to open and close (Dougherty and Lister, 2015) and the lacrimal apparatus is responsible for tear production and drainage. Tears provide:

Tears drain away from the eyes into the nasal cavity via the lacrimal puncta (singular punctum) (part of the lacrimal apparatus), which are found on the upper and lower eye lids (Fig 1).

Eyes should be assessed as part of a holistic patient assessment and as part of personal care. It is important to discuss any long-term eye problems the patient has and document how these are managed; for example, glaucoma requires regular eye drops, or blepharitis (inflammation of eye lid margin) may require a personalised plan of care.

Falls are linked to poor eyesight so eye assessment is an integral part of falls prevention. Older people with impaired vision fall 1.7 times more often, and sustain hip fractures 1.3-1.9 times more frequently than those with normal eyesight (College of Optometrists, 2014; College of Optometrists and British Geriatrics Society, 2011). In response to these concerns, the Royal College of Physicians (2017) has produced a bedside tool to help check older patients eyesight and reduce hospital falls risk.

Patients should be asked whether they have any new problems with their vision. These should be reported immediately, as acute eye problems such as acute glaucoma, orbital cellulitis or retinal detachment may result in serious eye complications if treatment is delayed.

It is important to record any sight aids the patient uses such as glasses, contact lenses and a prosthetic eye. If necessary, patients should be given support to use these aids, such as ensuringthat patients glasses are clean; nurses should seek expert help if they lack skills to meet a patients needs.

Eye cleansing is an essential aspect of daily hygiene and patients in hospital or residential/care home, or those who are dependent on care at home may need support to maintain this aspect of their care. Those with reduced vision or blindness may struggle to maintain independence in an unfamiliar environment, such as hospital, and may need help to manage their eye care (Dougherty and Lister, 2015).

Indications for eye cleansing are outlined in Box 1. The procedure aims to maintain healthy eyes and it is important that infection from one eye is not transferred into the other. General principles underpinning the procedure are outlined in Box 2.

Box 1. Indications for eye care

Sources: Dougherty and Lister (2015); Shaw (2014)

Box 2. The underpinning principles of eye cleansing

Nurses need to assess individual patients for risk of exposure to blood and body fluids (Royal College of Nursing, 2018) and be aware of local policies for glove use for this procedure. When gloves are required they must be single-use and should be disposed of according to local infection prevention and control policy (Loveday et al, 2014).

College of Optometrists (2014) Focus on Falls. London: College of Optometrists.

College of Optometrists, British Geriatrics Society (2011) The Importance of Vision in Preventing Falls.

Dougherty L, Lister S (2015) The Royal Marsden Hospital Manual of Clinical Nursing Procedures. Oxford: Wiley-Blackwell.

Loveday HP et al (2014) epic3: National evidence-based guidelines for preventing healthcare-associated infections in NHS hospitals in England. Journal of Hospital Infection; 86: S1, 1-70.

McDermott AM (2013) Antimicrobial Compounds in Tears. Experimental Eye Research; 117: 53-61.

Ring L, Okoro M (2016) A Handbook of Ophthalmic Standards and Procedures. Oxford: M&K Publications.

Royal College of Nursing (2018) Tools of the Trade: Guidance for Health Care Staff on GloveUse and the Prevention of Contact Dermatitis.

Royal College of Physicians (2017) Look Out! Bedside Vision Check for Falls Prevention.

Shaw M (2014) How to administer eye drops and ointments. Nursing Times; 110: 40, 16-18.

World Health Organization (2009) WHO Guidelines for Hand Hygiene in Health Care.

See original here:
Principles and procedure for eye assessment and cleansing - Nursing Times

STORY:

When Claire Bertram was starting out as an adult, she did what most people do. She found a career to match her strengths and steer clear of her weaknesses.

Part of that job search was making sure to find a line of work that required the least reliance upon eyesight. Bertram is visually impaired. She was born with no vision in her left eye, and in her right eye she suffers from microphthalmia, a rare condition in which one eyeball is unusually small, creating "very limited version," as Bertram puts it.

During a recent interview at the Oasis Day Spa in Dobbs Ferry, New York, Bertram told Reuters she came up with the idea of becoming a massage therapist from someone else who was brainstorming career choices. But unlike other massage therapists who can employ multiple senses to carry out their work, Bertram must operate without sight.

Bertram downplayed both the challenge and the novelty of working through her disability.

She said she's been aided by a lifetime of "honing" her other senses including feeling and hearing.

The image, however, of a massage therapist working without vision is a striking one, so much so Bertram has had to encounter skeptics during her decade-long career.

"No one's said anything to me personally, like, 'I don't want to work with you.' A lot of people, they're not like that," she recalled. "They're going to tell someone else so they don't have to be put in that awkward situation."

"It's not like we're stupid," she said.

Skeptics among her clients have sought an escape through the front desk.

"Are there customers that come in and may at some time, because of Claire's physical limitations, have trepidation? Yes, that does happen," said spa owner Bruce Schoenberg. "And our answer to them is, 'go in, experience the massage, and if you're not happy at the end of the day, let us know. We'll give you a discount.' But that has never happened."

And the ones who stay, Schoenberg said, are "ashamed in some respects that they had these prejudices against somebody that was sight-impaired and they realize that it was something they shouldn't have been concerned about."

Other massage therapists with vision impairment have written about their ability to thrive on industry websites like "Massage Today" and "Massage Magazine." And the field has long been the province for the visually impaired in several Asian countries.

For Bertram, it's understandable why some might find her success remarkable.

But she shies away from the label.

"Lots of people, things happen to them on a daily basis, some people go blind," she says. "You can cope. You can learn how to live a regular life."

(Production by: Dan Fastenberg and Hussein al Waaile.)

See original here:
'You can cope' - visually impaired massage therapist - Yahoo News UK

Thanksgiving is almost here, so lets talk turkey. Anyone who has ever tried to get a good look at a wild turkey knows they have incredible eyesight.

One moment youre looking at a big bird; then you blink your eyes, and its gone. You swear you didnt move a muscle, but obviously you did. And now, after trees have lost their leaves, the problem is exaggerated.

Whether youre a birder or a hunter, clearer sightlines give a huge advantage to turkeys. A turkeys disappearing act is especially impressive for a bird that can weigh more than 20 pounds, run 25 miles per hour, and fly in short bursts more than 50 miles per hour.

One reason turkeys are so elusive is that their eyes are among the most sophisticated in the vertebrate world. They can detect even slight movements at great distances.

Thats how they detect predators such as coyotes, bobcats and great horned owls.

And if turkeys can avoid approaching predators at a distance, deadly attacks can usually be prevented.

Turkey retinas have seven different types of photoreceptors, one type of rod cell and six different types of cone cells. Rods detect light intensity, and cones detect color.

Human retinas, by comparison, contain just a single type of rod and three types of cones.

Based on the abundance of cone cells, its clear that turkeys have excellent color vision. That makes perfect sense given the brilliant, multicolored, fleshy heads male sport during the spring mating season.

For detecting human threats, however, its one particular type of color-sensitive cone cell that gives turkeys an almost unfair visual advantage.

These cone cells are sensitive to UV light, so they see things that we cannot. (This is also true for many other birds and mammals.)

Turkeys sensitivity to UV light puts inexperienced turkey hunters and birders at a disadvantage. Even if observers remain motionless, clothing can make even a stationary observer impossible to miss.

Laundry detergents that whiten and brighten clothing leave behind a UV residue. And the more often clothing is washed with these detergents, the more UV residue they accumulate.

This is also sometimes true for brand new clothing, even camo gear. Anyone wearing camo clothing or old favorites that have been washed many times almost glow to the eyes of turkeys.

One remedy is to wash your turkey clothing with detergents that do not have brighteners. Read the label.

Turkeys also have excellent peripheral vision. Like most birds their eyes are positioned on the sides of their head giving them a field of view of approximately 270-degrees.

Combine that with a flexible neck that can turn almost completely around, and turkeys can see 360 degrees with just a slight turn of the head. Its no wonder they spook so easily.

Compared to humans binocular, 180-degree field of vision, turkeys dont miss much visually.

One drawback to turkey eyes being positioned on the sides of the head is that they lack three-dimensional vision. Though this would seem to be a significant disadvantage, they compensate by bobbing their head up and down enabling their eyes to gather information about relative distances and apparent depths of field.

So, lacking true 3-D vision is not a problem for turkeys. Thanks to razor-sharp vision, sensitivity to UV light, and near 360-degree field of view, wild turkeys are hyper-vigilant regarding their visual environment.

Thats why getting a good look at them in nature is so difficult. Whether hunting or birding, a better strategy might be to simply watch from a comfortable spot at the base of a big oak tree (they love acorns).

This, however, is probably not a safe tactic during turkey hunting season. As we enjoy Thanksgiving dinner with family and friends this week, appreciate some of the biological adaptations that make turkeys the noble birds that Ben Franklin argued would make a suitable national symbol.

And if its within your means, volunteer or donate some cash to a local church or food bank that provides meals for those less fortunate.

Up-to-date agriculture news in your inbox!

Read this article:
Don't blink: Turkeys have incredible eyesight - Farm and Dairy

In some ways, its appropriate that Im getting my vision fixed in the year 2020.

However, I started 2019 with a column talking about my upcoming operation to fix my cataracts. I wrote about how disconcerting it was seeing my vision get worse and to know that, in another time and place, I would be going blind.

At the time, however, I believed I would be having my cataracts fixed in July. July came without a call from my eye surgeon.

Thanks to some prodding from my eye doctor, I was advised to be patient, and recently I finally got my dates for surgery. My eyes will be fixed with two visits to the surgeon over a two-week period this coming January.

I am overjoyed at getting my eyesight back to normal. Im less overjoyed at the prospect of the operation itself, though Ive been told by those with experience that its nothing to be afraid of.

I am frustrated at the length of time it has taken to go from diagnosis to correction.

This is the situation that critics of Canadas health-care system point to when they deride its shortcomings. Canadas health care is largely based on a triage system. If you are hit by a truck, or suffer a heart attack, and need immediate and serious health care, you get it promptly.

If, on the other hand, your condition is not life-threatening, then you may have to wait, because health care costs money, even if Canadian taxpayers pay less for their system than American taxpayers pay for their far less comprehensive version.

There are limited resources to go around, so the tasks that can wait need to wait for the funding to make them happen. And we end up with waiting lists.

While it makes sense for a health-care system to focus on the person suffering a heart attack ahead of someone who needs arthroscopic surgery on their knee, frustration still builds for the person who has to wait months in knee pain, or lean closer and closer to computer screens he can now hardly read.

More:
Opinion | Glad to be getting eyesight back, frustrated with wait time - Waterloo Chronicle

Nov. 27 To the Editor:

Dear Cousins,

I have never written a holiday letter. I will turn 80 (!) in a few weeks, so we can all agree I'm overdue. And, having experienced a big loss just six months ago, the fact that I have chosen to give thanks for my first ever holiday letter may seem strange.

Forty years ago, as I was approaching my 40th birthday milestone and could anticipate my nest emptying, I reached out to a lifestyle coach named Wynne, who became a mentor and lifelong friend. Every year Wynne would send a note of profound thanks sharing how her life had been enriched that year. She is now into her eighties and is nearly blind due to a progressive degenerative ocular disease. She is still coaching, however. As her eyesight continued to fail, her son said, you may be losing your sight but you will always have vision!

What better time is there to acknowledge vision than as we look to 2020! I have always heard that hindsight is 20/20 but if we revisit the foresightedness combined with courage of those who came before us, that's 20/20 vision! When the four generations of cousins gathered at Jill's wonderful home in July, there were countless thankful moments for me. First, of course, is our mutual gratitude that our ancestors acted upon their vision more than a century ago, when violence was spreading in eastern Europe, and crossed the Atlantic to a life of unknowns. After our lunch, as we listened to the recording of my father's journey to Ellis Island, I looked around the dining table and thanked my grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles and cousins for their collective visions of welcoming everyone into our family no matter his or her race, religion or creed! That was pace setting for their generations and we are all better for it. I am thankful that 20/20 vision is in our genes!

This was a difficult year but I am thankful for having had 57-plus years of marriage and for my two wonderful children who have blessed me with amazing, attentive families. And, there is deep appreciation to all of you who have participated in the collecting and documenting of our history so that future generations will always know how it all began.

I wish you all a wonderful Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, whatever you observe or choose not to observe and a healthy, happy 2020.

Lots of love, Linda

Linda Tober

Exeter

See more here:
So much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving - Foster's Daily Democrat

This press release was orginally distributed by SBWire

Hallandale Beach, FL -- (SBWIRE) -- 11/29/2019 -- Most people have eye problems at one time or another. But some people have had a common vision condition, usually present from birth. There could a variety of reasons for early age eye problems and left untreated, they can cause serious damage to an individual's eyes. There are many patients who recognize their eye problems later in life. The 60-year-old south Florida resident, Lydia Harris had spring time cataract surgery to correct High Myopia and cataracts in both eyes by Braverman Eye Center in Hollywood. Before she got to see Dr. Stanley Braverman and his staff in their state-of-the-art office - or be referred by her Optometrist Dr. Dan Llewellyn in Fort Lauderdale, who is the official eye doctor for the Florida Panthers - Harris had endured a lifetime of vision problems.

"Since I was in pre-school, I wore glasses. My eyesight got progressively worse through the years - and even had to wear bifocals that looked like Coke bottles. It was not an easy childhood" Lydia Harris pointed out. "The meeting with Dr. Braverman and his great staff was the beginning of something special. Every question I had, he had an answer for. I can't talk enough about the procedure on both eyes and the way I was treated. A positive experience" she further added.

A month after the procedure was done, she is doing well and enjoying her life like never before. She had an amazing experience at Braverman Eye Center and now recommends people having eye problems to visit this eye center in Hollywood.

Talking about Lydia Harris' eyes problems, Dr. Braverman said "Ms. Harris had two problems. She had cataracts, but she also had highly nearsighted eyes since birth. With today's methods of cataract surgery, we are able to not only correct the cataract, but also, we can change the power of the crystalline lens so that nearsightedness can be eliminated.

About Braverman Eye CenterBraverman Eye Center has built their reputation on integrity and the highest standards of care. They provide high quality eye care to patients throughout South Florida, primarily serving the eye care needs of patients in Hallandale Beach, Hollywood, and many more; however, they do see many patients from other surrounding communities in Dade, Broward and Palm Beach County, Florida. They pride themselves on providing the most efficient, professional and personal Optometric and Ophthalmologic care possible. They will do their best to honor one's trust by providing their patients excellent care and valued respect.

For more information, please visit- https://www.bravermaneyecenter.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/a-lifetime-battle-for-lydia-harris-the-60-year-old-south-florida-resident-comes-to-a-happy-end-with-a-visit-to-braverman-eye-center-1266560.htm

See the article here:
A Lifetime Battle for Lydia Harris, the 60-Year-Old South Florida Resident, Comes to a Happy End with a Visit to Braverman Eye Center - Press Release...

Results of a recent study suggest a possible role for tumor necrosis factor- (TNF-) in the development of peripheral neuropathy (PN) in patients with multiple myeloma (MM) treated with bortezomib. The studys results were published in the Annals of Hematology.

Inthis study, patients with MM (N=35) were given a maximum of 8 cycles ofbortezomib in addition to dexamethasone. Patients underwent tests of nervefunction, and their serum levels of TNF- were also measured. This study alsoincluded an analysis of the effects of an anti-TNF- monoclonal antibodytherapy in Wistar rats (N=36) that received bortezomib.

Evaluablepatients were stratified based on the cumulative dosages of bortezomib theyreceived. A total of 16 patients (48.5%) had cumulative dosages of less than 39mg/m2, and 17 (51.5%) each received 39 mg/m2 or more of bortezomib.

Amongpatients who received lower cumulative dosages of bortezomib, 43.8% (n=7)experienced PN, compared with an incidence of PN of 82.4% (n=14) among patientswho received 39 mg/m2 or more of bortezomib (P <.05).Grade 3 PN was reported for 2 patients in the higher-dose group.

Baselineserum TNF- levels did not significantly differ between patients whoexperienced PN and those who did not. With bortezomib treatment, TNF- levelsrose overall, but increases were most significant among patients who developedPN of grades 2 to 3. The investigators also reported that most patients withTNF- levels higher than 65 pg/mL had neuropathy symptoms.

Inthe rat model, poorer nerve conduction velocity and evidence of mechanicalallodynia appeared to be associated with bortezomib therapy. Among rats treatedwith bortezomib, however, treatment with the anti-TNF- monoclonal antibody wasassociated with less neurological dysfunction.

Developmentof new neuroprotective agents against TNF- may be a promising therapeuticstrategy to prevent the development of neuropathy, wrote the studyinvestigators in their report.

Reference

Zhao W, Wang W, Li X, et al. Peripheral neuropathy following bortezomib therapy in multiple myeloma patients: association with cumulative dose, heparanase, and TNF-. Ann Hematol. doi: 10.1007/s00277-019-03816-6

Read more from the original source:

Potential Link Between Tumor Necrosis Factor- and Peripheral Neuropathy Observed With Bortezomib Treatment in Multiple Myeloma - Oncology Nurse...

Thediabetic neuropathy markethas witnessed growth from relentless efforts of various healthcare proponents in expanding the array of various therapies and first line drugs in treating the underlying pain. Players have been able to meet the patient needs because of expanding understanding of physiopathology that promote neuropathic pain in diabetes. Most first line drug therapies notably focus on mitigating toxic effects of hyperglycemia. Several players in the diabetic neuropathy market have been benefitting from the introduction of guidelines that help develop therapies that can optimize pain.

The competitive landscape of the diabetic neuropathy market is characterized by fair degree of fragmentation. A handful of players hold sizable shares in the market. Top names in the diabetic neuropathy market are Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Eli Lilly and Company, Cephalon, NeuroMertrix, and Johnson and Johnson. One of the key strategies they increasingly adopt to consolidate their shares is mergers and acquisitions.

During 2017 2025, the global diabetic neuropathy market is expected to clock a CAGR of 5.4%. By the end of this period, the worth of the global market is anticipated to be US$5.718 bn.

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Prevalence and Complexity Of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Represents Unmet Need

Of the various disorder types, diabetic peripheral neuropathy has attracted the attention of pharmaceutical and biotech companies. By 2025-end, the segment is expected to account for a major share in the global diabetic neuropathy market. The complexity of the type has attracted vast attention of the healthcare industries around the world. The marked prevalence of diabetic peripheral neuropathy adds to its disabling nature. The higher mortality and morbidity of distal symmetrical polyneuropathy is also propelling investments in this area in the global diabetic neuropathy market.

In developed nations, the prevalence of diabetes is increasing at rapid pace. According to recently disclosed statistics by International Diabetes Federation, by 2045 629 million people will be living with diabetes, and currently account for more than 12% of the total spending by adult populations. One of the most complication is diabetic neuropathy. Hence, the condition has attracted groundswell of interest in these nations, such as in the U.S. and the U.K. Further, in recent years, a fast emerging category that is attracting attention of companies in the diabetic neuropathy market is treatment-induced neuropathy in diabetes. Constant advances in understanding of the underlying pathogenesis of diabetic peripheral neuropathy over the last decade have expanded the prospects of the diabetic neuropathy market.

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Asia Pacific Fast Emerging as Key Diabetic Neuropathy Market

In the light of developed markets, North America and Europe have emerged as prominent regional markets. A shared factor underpinning the evolution of both these markets are expanding interest in pathophysiological mechanisms. On the other hand, Asia Pacific is emerging as a vastly lucrative region in the global diabetic neuropathy market. This is attributed to the substantial clinical developments in understanding diabetic complications.

Expanding Pharmacological Classes of Drugs Provides New Revenue Base

Lifesciences companies in the global diabetic neuropathy market find it worthwhile and necessary to develop therapies that can target multiple metabolic pathways. Key of these are hyperglycemia, toxic adiposity, mitochondrial dysfunction, and polyol pathway. Promising candidates to emerge in recent years are accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). Growing research on improving the clinical efficacy of antidepressants and anticonvulsants will likely expand the outlook of the global diabetic neuropathy market.

Of note, developed as developed markets are seeing expanding research in pharmacological classes of drugs. The development of these drugs is fueled by the adoption of multimodal and multidisciplinary approaches. Further, growing focus on developing second or third line treatment is also unlocking new potential in the diabetic neuropathy market.

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Diabetic Neuropathy Market: Technological Growth Map over Time to Understand the Industry Growth Rate - Montana Ledger

Damage to the nerves that control the regulation of involuntary function due to high levels of blood glucose may cause a condition called autonomic neuropathy. An example of body functions such as heart rate, digestion, blood pressure, sexual activity, and perspiration. Cardiac autonomic neuropathy occurs when the heart is affected by nerve damage. Diabetes mellitus patient commonly suffers from cardiac autonomic neuropathy. More than 26 million people in the Unites States get affected by diabetes mellitus. With the increase in age and duration of diabetes mellitus, a prevalence rate of cardiac autonomic neuropathy increase. Cardiac Autonomic Neuropathy is the reason for several cardiac dysfunctions and many medical symptoms which include exercise intolerance, silent ischemia, postural hypotension, resting tachycardia, perioperative instability, and cardiomyopathy.

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Cardiac Autonomic Neuropathy treatment market involves aggressively treating cardiovascular risk factors like hypertension. Cardiac autonomicdeficiency of essential fatty acids, increased oxidative stress, autoimmune damage, and formation of advanced glycosylation end products. Other therapies include in Cardiac autonomic neuropathy treatment include Aldose reductase inhibitor and angiotensin receptor blocker.

Cardiac Autonomic Neuropathy Treatment Market: Drivers and Restraints

In diabetic patients, Cardiac Autonomic Neuropathy characterizes one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality as well as is responsible for cardiac arrhythmias and sudden death which is increasing the demand for cardiac autonomic neuropathy treatment market. Increase in aging population as the well societal influence and changing lifestyles are also the cause of increasing Cardiac autonomic neuropathy treatment market in the world. According to WHO report, more than 23 million people in the United States and an estimated 250 million worldwide are affected by diabetes mellitus. In diabetic patient Cardiac autonomic neuropathy is very common and leads to abnormalities in heart flow rate as well as vascular and peripheral dynamics and reduced quality of life are the drivers for Cardiac autonomic neuropathy treatment market. Some of the Cardiac autonomic neuropathy therapies has shown promising initial result but yet to be validated as well Cardiac autonomic neuropathy treatment management depends on aggressive strategies due to the absence of direct treatment could be the possible restraint for the Cardiac autonomic neuropathy treatment market. Poor reimbursement policies by government and private players also challenge the Cardiac autonomic neuropathy treatment market.

Cardiac Autonomic Neuropathy Treatment Market: Segmentation

Cardiac autonomic neuropathy treatment market is segmented into treatment type which includes pharmacological agents as well as inhibitors and by distribution channel.

Cardiac Autonomic Neuropathy Treatment Market: Overview

Due to increasing aging population and diabetes mellitus, the global market for Cardiac autonomic neuropathy treatment market is expected to gain pull during the forecast period. It is expected centrally acting Cardiac autonomic neuropathy treatment market segment to hold the dominant share in the global Cardiac autonomic neuropathy treatment market due to increasing number of diabetic patients. Also, the increase in number launches of the new drugs cardiac autonomic neuropathy treatment market is increasing globally. Increasing competition among ading drug firms in the market to develop newer drugs tends to drive the cardiac autonomic neuropathy treatment market towards the growth rate.

Cardiac Autonomic Neuropathy Treatment Market: Region-wise Outlook

Based on geographic region, the Cardiac autonomic neuropathy treatment market is segmented into seven significant regions:

North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-pacific, and Middle East & Africa.

North America is the largest in Cardiac autonomic neuropathy treatment market, owing to high number of diabetes mellitus patient and awareness among patients regarding the harmful effects orpulation as well as growing healthcare expenditure is the reason for significant revenue generation from this region in Cardiac autonomic neuropathy treatment market. Europe is the second largest in Cardiac autonomic neuropathy market due to advancement in technologies and change in lifestyles.

Asia-Pacific is expected to grow at faster rate in the upcoming period due to the increase in the prevalence of diabetes mellitus thus boosting the Cardiac autonomic neuropathy treatment market growth.

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Cardiac Autonomic Neuropathy Treatment Market: Key Market Participants

Some of the key players in Cardiac autonomic neuropathy treatment market are

The research report presents a comprehensive assessment of the market and contains thoughtful insights, facts, historical data, and statistically supported and industry-validated market data. It also contains projections using a suitable set of assumptions and methodologies. The research report provides analysis and information according to market segments such as geographies, application, and industry.

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Cardiac Autonomic Neuropathy Treatment Market by Size | Growth | Analysis | Trends and Forecasts to 2017 2025 - chronicles24

Researchers at Griffith University will undertake a comprehensive assessment of nerve function of people with diabetes to learn more about the onset of peripheral neuropathy.

Neuropathy is the highest reported complication of diabetes worldwide. The most common form of neuropathy is distal symmetrical neuropathy. It causes significant suffering, including loss of sensation in the feet and eventually in the hands.

Around 1.7 million Australians have diabetes, according to Diabetes Australia, and around half of those people could be expected to develop some type of neuropathy. The number of people with diabetes has experienced a fourfold increase, from 108 million adults worldwide in 1980 to 422 million in 2014.

Although diabetic neuropathies are common, surprisingly little is known about the condition and its onset, which is why Eva Sierra Silvestre is leading the DIANE (Diabetic neuropathies) research project, which will assess the function, structure and mechanics of the nervous system in people with diabetes.

What we are planning to do is to create a very comprehensive assessment of nerve function in people with diabetes, she said. By doing that, we may be able to predict or be able to improve prevention and management later on.

An issue with this condition and current screening practices is that sometimes the onset can go unnoticed, so the study will aim to find ways to pick up on peripheral neuropathy in its early stages.

Early detection of diabetic complications is crucial for an effective management of the condition, Ms Sierra Silvestre, a PhD candidate at the Menzies Health Institute Queensland, said.

In research, nerve function in the feet has been studied more than in hands. Typically, it is thought that hands are affected in a later stage but the research team thinks that these changes may occur earlier than what we think. As such, the DIANE research project will focus on assessing subjects hands for any sign of nerve damage.

The researchers are looking for people with diabetes, with and without symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, such as numbness or pain.

Participants will be required to attend three sessions, one each at Griffith Universitys Nathan campus, QUT at Kelvin Grove, and QScan at Red Hill.

To learn more about the study, visit the DIANE Diabetic Neuropathies research project website.

Ms Sierra Silvestres study is one of two ongoing into peripheral neuropathies at Griffith University. Dr Brooke Coombes is also looking for study participants as she investigates a new approach to managing exercise for people with the condition.

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Study to search for early signs of peripheral neuropathy in people with diabetes - Griffith News

Akcea Therapeutics and Ionis Pharmaceuticals announced the launch of a Phase 3 clinical trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of AKCEA-TTR-LRx (ION-682884) for the treatment of adults with familial amyloid polyneuropathy (FAP).

The global, open-label, randomized NEURO-TTRansform trial (NCT04136184) is expected to start in December. It is recruiting approximately 140 participants ages 18 to 82, diagnosed with stage 1 or 2 FAP, at the Ionis Investigative Site in Boston.

AKCEA-TTR-LRx is a second-generation RNA-targeted therapy in development for the treatment of all forms of transthyretin amyloidosis, including the hereditary (hATTR) and wild-type form of the disease (ATTRwt).

It works by preventing the RNA sequence of the TTR gene, which is defective in people with hATTR, from being translated into a protein. This reduces the buildup of abnormal amyloid deposits that accumulate in several tissues, slowly causing damage and eventually giving rise to symptoms associated with FAP or the other form of hATTR, called familial amyloid cardiomyopathy (FAC). Of note, RNA is the molecule that serves as the template for the production of a protein.

AKCEA-TTR-LRx was originally discovered by Ionis through its proprietary LIgand Conjugated Antisense (LICA) technology platform. It is now being co-developed by Ionis and its affiliate, Akcea.

NEURO-TTRansform will compare the effects of AKCEA-TTR-LRxto the placebo arm of a previous Phase 2/3 trial (NCT01737398), also sponsored by Ionis, that investigated the safety and efficacy of Tegsedi(inotersen) in people with FAP, compared with a placebo.

Once enrolled in NEURO-TTRansform, participants will be randomly assigned to receive subcutaneous (under-the-skin) injections of AKCEA-TTR-LRx every four weeks, or Tegsedi once a week. All study participants also will receive daily supplemental doses of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin A.

Those who are initially assigned to Tegsedi (20 out of the 140 expected to enroll), will cross over to AKCEA-TTR-LRx after 35 weeks.

The studys main goals, which will be assessed at 66 weeks, include analyzing changes from the studys start in the levels of TTR found in the serum, as well as changes in the scores of the modified Neuropathy Impairment Score +7 (mNIS+7) and of the Norfolk Quality of Life Questionnaire-Diabetic Neuropathy (Norfolk QoL-DN).

The mNIS+7 is a measure of neurological impairment that evaluates muscle weakness, sensation, reflexes, nerve conduction, and autonomic function; the Norfolk QoL-DN evaluates the impact of neuropathy on individuals quality of life.

An interim analysis is planned at 35 weeks to assess changes from the studys start in the levels of TTR found in the serum and in mNIS+7 scores.

Patients enrolled in NEURO-TTRansform will be followed for 85 weeks. After completing the study, they will have the option to enroll in an open-label extension study.

The initiation of the TTRransform Phase 3 program represents an expansion of our dedication and commitment to the ATTR community. The NEURO-TTRansform study is the first of two Phase 3 studies that we expect to initiate with AKCEA-TTR-LRx. Our Phase 1 data are encouraging and we are excited about the possibility of delivering a significant advancement for people living with hATTR amyloidosis, Damien McDevitt, PhD, Akceas interim CEO, said in a press release.

In a previous Phase 1 trial (NCT03728634) sponsored by Ionis, it was shown that monthly 90-mg injections of AKCEA-TTR-LRx could lower the levels of transthyretin (TTR), the protein involved in FAP, by up to 94% after 13 weeks of treatment in a group of healthy volunteers.

The Phase 1 data of AKCEA-TTR-LRx are consistent with the clinical profile seen across our other LICA programs, highlighting the potential of LICA-engineered therapies to address both rare and more common diseases, said Brett P. Monia, PhD, chief operating officer of Ionis.

We remain dedicated to advancing this important clinical development program as rapidly as possible and are hopeful about the prospect of bringing a new safe and effective treatment to people living with the devastating symptoms of hATTR amyloidosis in the years ahead, Monia added.

The company also launched the Phase 3 CARDIO-TTRansform clinical trial (NCT04136171), to test AKCEA-TTR-LRx in people with transthyretinmediated amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR CM), or FAC. The trial is not yet enrolling.

Joana is currently completing her PhD in Biomedicine and Clinical Research at Universidade de Lisboa. She also holds a BSc in Biology and an MSc in Evolutionary and Developmental Biology from Universidade de Lisboa. Her work has been focused on the impact of non-canonical Wnt signaling in the collective behavior of endothelial cells cells that make up the lining of blood vessels found in the umbilical cord of newborns.

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Margarida graduated with a BS in Health Sciences from the University of Lisbon and a MSc in Biotechnology from Instituto Superior Tcnico (IST-UL). She worked as a molecular biologist research associate at a Cambridge UK-based biotech company that discovers and develops therapeutic, fully human monoclonal antibodies.

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Phase 3 Trial of Investigative FAP Therapy AKCEA-TTR-LRx Launching - FAP News Today