THE sun and moon aligned over the Earth in a rare astronomical event on Sunday - an annular eclipse that dimmed the skies over parts of Asia and North America, briefly turning the sun into a blazing ring of fire.
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Annular eclipse: Skies light up in ring of fire over Asia and US
You want a vision for the future of health care? Don?t look to policymakers and regulators. Look to innovators and innovations. Look to San Diego?s wireless mesas and San Francisco?s silicon valleys. Look at Scanadu?s protean medical Tricorder. They get it, and it?s awesome. Watch their one-and-a-half-minute video before reading on.
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Tricorder Update -- Social Medicine is the Next Big Thing After Social Media
COALVILLE, England, May 23, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --
Aerial survey company Bluesky has launched a fast response aerial survey service using state of the art unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) or drones. The technology, originally developed by the military, includes Artificial Intelligence (AI) guided autopilot, high resolution integrated camera and environmentally friendly rechargeable propulsion system. Autonomous take-off and landing ensures the system is easy to use and with a wingspan of less than a metre it can be easily transported without the need for complex assembly.
"Using UAV's we can respond quickly to demands to collect site specific images and data in a very cost effective way," commented James Eddy, Technical Director at Leicestershire based Bluesky. "The integrated camera captures high resolution photogrammetric images that can be used to create map accurate aerial survey data including height models. The system is compact and lightweight making it easy to store and transport and can be launched by hand from virtually any location. Flight planning software and an Artificial Intelligence guided autopilot make it easy to control and the system will gently and safely return to the ground with a single touch of a button."
Potential applications of Bluesky's UAV solution include open cast mines or quarries or even landfill sites where large volumes of material are extracted or moved on a regular basis. The geographically accurate imagery would provide a record of activity at a given point in time and the highly detailed height models could be used to measure stockpiles, cut and fill volumes and for facilities management and safety monitoring.
Large scale construction sites can also be surveyed, at regular intervals or predetermined points in time, providing data for project management, reporting and funding. The height data can be used for line of site calculations to ensure compliance with planning applications or cut and fill calculations for project invoicing and for the creation of realistic 3D images for marketing or KPI reporting.
With an option of additional sensors mounted on the UAV Bluesky is also exploring agricultural applications monitoring crop growth or irrigation and identifying locations for higher value crops or high yield areas. Additional applications include golf courses where the map accurate images and height models could be used to create yardage books, feed digital caddy systems and used to develop stroke manager solutions.
Website: http://www.bluesky-world.com
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SWORD 5.0 features enhanced safety-related capabilities
14:37 GMT, May 21, 2012 NORFOLK, VA. | At the National UASI Homeland Security Conference, booth #310, MASA Group, a leading developer of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based Modeling & Simulation (M&S) software for the defense, homeland security, emergency management, serious games and games-related markets, is unveiling version 5.0 of MASA SWORD, the company's state-of-the-art modeling and simulation solution. MASA will demonstrate SWORD and its capability to help Homeland Security and Public Safety professionals improve their training efficiency and effectiveness, while reducing costs.
MASA will also showcase PIVTS (Plans Independently Verified Through Simulation), a recently-launched service offering designed to help emergency management professionals easily assess their disaster preparedness plans, using SWORD technology. PIVTS can help emergency management professionals determine the key elements of their plan and develop a timeline for the simulation, thereby increasing their decision-making level of confidence.
"For the last 10 years, Homeland Security and Emergency Management Departments across the country have spent millions of dollars preparing, exercising and updating plans to help them better respond to emergency situations. With on-going reductions in funding, MASA provides public safety managers with new cost-effective ways to sustain their programs, while ensuring that their emergency and crisis preparedness plans and personnel are capable of responding to an ever-widening array of potential scenarios, explains Juan-Pablo Torres, MASAs President and CEO.
At MASA, we believe that reduced resources should not mean diminished preparedness. The latest version of SWORD includes a host a new features with powerful, cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology designed to public safety professionals increase their departments' preparedness, while keeping costs affordable. Moreover, MASA now has certified AGWA grant writers on staff to help potential users apply for Federal funding," adds John D. Pietrzak, Vice President, MASA Group, Inc.
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MASA Showcases Latest Version of MASA SWORD for Homeland Security Markets
REDWOOD SHORES, CA--(Marketwire -05/21/12)- Rocket Fuel, the leading provider of artificial-intelligence advertising solutions for digital marketers, today announced a free webinar to be held on Wednesday, May 30th at 11 am PT. Marketers can sign up for the webinar at http://rocketfuel.com/newsroom/event/webinar-cpg-in-the-digital-age-ditch-the-funnel-embrace-the-lifecycle.
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About Rocket Fuel:Rocket Fuel is the leading provider of artificial-intelligence advertising solutions that transform digital media campaigns into self-optimizing engines that learn and adapt in real-time, and deliver outstanding results from awareness to sales. Recently awarded #22 in Forbes Most Promising Companies in America list, over 400 of the world's most successful marketers trust Rocket Fuel to power their advertising across display, video, mobile, and social media. Founded by online advertising veterans and rocket scientists from NASA, DoubleClick, IBM, and Salesforce.com, Rocket Fuel is based in Redwood Shores, California, and has offices in eleven cities worldwide including New York, London, and Toronto.
2012 Rocket Fuel Inc. All rights reserved. Rocket Fuel Inc. is a registered trademark of Rocket Fuel Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
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Engineers to discuss latest research and process solutions
Mason, OH - Makino plans to share its latest machining and process solutions for aerospace manufacturing July 9-15 at the 2012 Farnborough International Airshow in Farnborough, England. Makino will host discussions at its chalet, C5, regarding new aerospace manufacturing technologies specifically designed for mid-sized titanium components, large aluminum structural parts, EDM-hole drilling, and 5-axis milling and grinding.
"The aerospace manufacturing industry continues to grow rapidly, and the International Farnborough Airshow is the perfect opportunity for manufacturers to learn about the latest high-performance manufacturing technologies," says Mark Rentschler, Makino marketing manager. "Makino's chalet visitors will have the opportunity to meet with our senior management, designers and application engineers to discuss their aerospace manufacturing challenges and how Makino can help them meet increasingly stringent requirements for quality and lead times."
Makino will showcase the following new aerospace manufacturing solutions at the show: o T2 5-axis horizontal machining center with ADVANTiGE(TM) for large titanium aerospace parts, such as edge frames, pylons and bulkheads o G7 multifunctional horizontal machining center for grinding, drilling, boring and milling in one machine platform o A8, A12 and A20 5-axis horizontal machining centers for large aluminum structural part production o a61nx-5E 5-axis horizontal machining center for small, multidimensional aluminum and titanium components o D300 5-axis vertical machining center for small engine component manufacturing o And a new sinker EDM for hole drilling of cooling holes
The Makino ADVANTiGE Makino's award-winning ADVANTiGE titanium machining technologies offer dramatic reductions in cost and lead-times for titanium aerospace manufacturing, enabling four times the productivity and tool life of conventional technologies. This titanium process solution is composed of several key machining technologies including a high-power, high-torque tilting spindle, Collision Safe Guard and Autonomic Spindle Technologies, high-pressure, high-flow coolant system, vibration damping system and a rigid machine construction.
ADVANTiGE technologies have been introduced as part of Makino's T-series 5-axis horizontal machining centers, including the T2 and T4. Built specifically for large titanium aerospace parts, such as edge frames, pylons and bulkheads, the T-series provides the rigidity, dynamic stiffness, vibration damping and agility necessary for more productive titanium machining and longer tool life.
Aluminum in Aerospace Makino's purpose-built family of large 5-axis horizontal machining centers for aluminum monolithic aerospace part production expands with the new A8, A12 and A20. Building upon the design of Makino's widely successful MAG series machines, this new line of horizontal machining centers incorporates Makino's latest features and technologies, including Volumetric Accuracy Compensation and a high-power, high-speed spindle.
The A8, A12 and A20 are built to accommodate large aerospace structural parts, increase machining accuracy and reduce cycle times for lower costs and higher productivity. With top spindle speeds of 33,000 rpm, these machines are setting new records in aluminum metal-removal rates, allowing faster part delivery and bottom-line growth.
Grinding, Drilling, Boring and Milling in One Machine Makino's chalet will highlight the G5 and new G7 multifunctional 5-axis horizontal machining centers, capable of grinding, drilling, boring and milling all in one platform for reduced capital equipment purchasing and elimination of out-of-cut time. The G5 helps eliminate setups, work in process and stack-up errors due to multiple setups.
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Makino to Highlight New Aerospace Manufacturing Solutions at 2012 Farnborough International ...
Wed, May 23, 2012
Airbus, ST Aerospace and EADS EFW have finalized the agreement to establish the collaboration for the launch of the A330 Passenger-to-Freighter (P2F) conversion program. This follows the MoU announced at the Singapore Airshow in February this year setting out the projects foundation and granting Authorisation To Offer for the A330P2F.
ST Aerospace lead the A330P2F engineering development work in collaboration with Airbus and EADS EFW, while EADS EFW will lead the industrial phase and undertake marketing and sales activities, supported by Airbus. Most of the conversions will take place at EADS EFW facilities in Dresden, Germany, with the potential for additional capacity at ST Aerospace. The strong demand from airlines for a program to convert used A330s from passenger configuration into an attractive freighter is clear, says Tom Williams, EVP of programs at Airbus. Together with ST Aerospace and our sister company EADS EFW we have the perfect partnership to bring efficiency, reliability and profitability to our operators. The A330P2F program includes two versions the A330-200P2F and the larger A330-300P2F. Of the two models, the larger A330-300P2F will be particularly suitable for integrators and express carriers thanks to its high volumetric payload capability with lower-density cargo. Meanwhile, the A330-200P2F will be optimised for higher-density freight and longer range performance. Entry-into-service of the first A330P2F is targeted for 2016. As well as complementing the factory-built A330-200F in service today, the A330P2F freighter conversion program will also enhance and sustain A330 Family residual values by extending the economic lives of A330 airframes. Approximately 2,700 freighters will be required over the next 20 years, and around half of these will be in the mid-sized freighter segment, including 900 conversions. Addressing this requirement, both the A330-200P2F and the A330-300P2F facilitate the change to environmentally-friendly, new-technology converted freighters, while recognising the operators focus on capital cost. (Pictured: A330 Freighter file photo)
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Airbus, EADS EFW, ST Aerospace Finalize A330P2F Conversion Program Agreement
Military & Aerospace Electronics, updated several times each day, brings to your iPhone the latest news, business developments and analysis, new products, and in-depth features of crucial importance to the aerospace and defense electronics and electro-optics industries. The content from Military & Aerospace Electronics brings you breaking news, business analysis, staff-written blogs, video features, and interactive reader comments -- in essence, all the information that aerospace and defense electronics engineers, engineering managers, program managers, and executive managers need most, every day and every hour, to keep ahead of their competition. Military & Aerospace Electronics content covers unmanned vehicles, navigation and guidance, avionics, missiles, satellites and telemetry, fire-control systems, sensors, command & control systems, communications technology, electronic and information warfare, reconnaissance and intelligence, simulation and training, network-centric warfare, military avionics, shipboard electronics and computers, vehicular electronics (vetronics), ruggedized and high-reliability electronics, electro optics and optoelectronics, homeland security technology, biometrics, and nanotechnology. Technologies covered included board products, embedded computing, integrated circuits, rugged computers, software, design and development tools, test and measurement equipment, power electronics, and more. Military & Aerospace Electronics covers the most important industry trade shows, interviews with industry leading lights, the latest new products relevant to aerospace and defense systems designers, blog commentary in written and video format on the latest industry developments. Content is deep, relevant, and on point to help you get the information you need, fast, and then get back to work.
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CALGARY, ALBERTA--(Marketwire -05/22/12)- FLYHT Aerospace Solutions Ltd. (FLY.V) (the "Company" or "FLYHT") has signed an agreement with L-3 Aviation Recorders ("L-3 AR") to sell, certify, produce and support FLYHT's real-time data communications and SatCom solution to L-3 AR customers. FLYHT and L-3 AR will provide FLYHT's Automated Flight Information Reporting System ("AFIRS") 228S to L-3 AR customers for installation on new aircraft. This solution offers customers the ability to provide voice and data communications anywhere in the world through the Iridium network. The AFIRS 228S will be provided under FLYHT's global Value Added Reseller agreement with Iridium.
These solutions are currently marketed under the FLYHT brand in conjunction with L-3's industry-leading line of Flight Data Recorders ("FDRs"), commonly referred to as "black boxes" on aircraft.
"We are delighted that our effort in teaming with the world leader in data recording is bearing fruit," remarked Bill Tempany, President and CEO of FLYHT. "We're proud that the industry has recognized L-3 and FLYHT for our technologies and cutting-edge solutions for seamless information delivery - from air vehicle to end user. As a team, we will offer end users and original equipment manufacturers one-stop shopping for their data recording and information delivery requirements."
"L-3 is extremely pleased to offer to its extensive worldwide airline and OEM customer base a solution for this emerging requirement with a strong partner like FLYHT," said Mike Smith, President of L-3 Aviation Recorders. "In conjunction with an on-board L-3 flight recorder, FLYHT has already demonstrated FDR data and aircraft position streaming on in-service aircraft. Additional functionality such as ACARS and data loading for EFB and other systems using Iridium communications services makes this a very practical solution for all customers."
About FLYHT Aerospace Solutions Ltd.
FLYHT provides proprietary technological products and services designed to reduce costs and improve efficiencies in the airline industry. The Company has patented and commercialized three products and associated services currently marketed to airlines, manufacturers and maintenance organizations around the world. Its premier technology, AFIRS UpTime, allows airlines to monitor and manage aircraft operations anywhere, anytime, in real-time. If an aircraft encounters an emergency, FLYHT's triggered data streaming mode, FLYHTStream, automatically streams vital data, normally secured in the black box, to designated sites on the ground in real-time. The Company has been publicly traded on the TSX Venture Exchange since 2003 and recently changed its trading symbol from AMA to FLY. Shareholders approved a Company name change from AeroMechanical Services Ltd. to FLYHT Aerospace Solutions Ltd. in May 2012.
AFIRS, UpTime, FLYHT, FLYHTStream and aeroQ are trademarks of FLYHT Aerospace Solutions Ltd.
About L-3 Aviation Recorders
A subsidiary of New York City based L-3 Communications; L-3 Aviation Recorders is the leading supplier of transportation industry solid-state voice and data recorders, specializing in accident-survivable recording devices for the aerospace and maritime industries.
L-3 AR is part of the L-3 Aviation Products (AP) Sector. L-3 AP manufactures a diverse line of safety-enhancing products and avionics equipment that sets the standard for next-generation requirements, including configurable voice and data recorders, collision avoidance systems, navigation products, display systems and processors. Our aviation products are found on tens of thousands of military and commercial aircraft worldwide. L-3 AP is made up of six divisions including ACSS, Aviation Recorders, Avionics Systems, Display Systems, Electrodynamics, Inc. and Electronic System Services. To learn more about L-3, please visit the company's website at http://www.L-3com.com.
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OKLAHOMA CITY--(BUSINESS WIRE)--
AGC Composites Group, a part of AGC Aerospace & Defense, announced the appointment of Kevin Holovach as Chief Financial Officer to oversee financial activities for the AGC Composites Group.
Al Haase, CEO of the AGC Composites Group, said, As our companies continue to grow, and with a marked increase in M&A activities both domestic and worldwide for the Composites Group, we are pleased to have a person with Kevins background join our team.
Mr. Holovach has over 25 years of financial experience from a broad base of distribution, manufacturing, and services. He has been responsible for US and foreign subsidiaries; domestic and foreign publicly owned, private, and private equity owned companies.
Mr. Holovach is a certified public accountant, and earned his Bachelor of Science in Accounting from University Center at Tulsa.
The AGC Composites Group, part of the AGC Aerospace & Defense portfolio, is composed of Unitech Composites, Integrated Composites and Hill AeroSystems and leverages the strength of its design, engineering, development, and manufacturing capabilities from the separate companies working as part of one group. The AGC Composites Group provides innovative design services, quick turnaround tooling, as well as the ability to efficiently manufacture both low volume as well as high volume production at competitive rates.
AGC Aerospace & Defense, the unifying brand of private equity group Acorn Growth Companies, is a global supplier of technologies, systems and services that support key commercial and military programs. Capabilities within the AGC Aerospace & Defense portfolio range from financing, engineering, and integration services to manufacturing, logistics, and aircraft modifications. AGC Aerospace & Defense is organized into four operating groups: Composites, Finance, Integrated Defense, and Services.
For additional information about AGC Aerospace & Defense, please visit: http://www.agcaerospace.com.
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AGC Aerospace & Defense Appoints New CFO to Composites Group
WAPELLO, Iowa Riding a motorcycle takes a steady hand. Although Jeff Weikert doesnt have that luxury anymore, that wont stop him from riding.
In 2009, Weikert, 51, of Wapello, was diagnosed with Parkinsons disease, a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system. The disease hasnt stopped him from riding, though.
The career motorcycle and stock car racer signed up to participate in the 90th edition of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, also known as the Race to the Clouds, in Colorado Springs, Colo.
To participate, one has to submit a resume of personal racing history. After Weikert submitted his on Dec. 1, 2011, his wife, Angie, 46, said they were invited to participate in the race.
Its fine with me, and hes been racing since Ive known him, Angie said. Its one more race that was on his bucket list.
Angie said the last race that her husband participated in was in 2010 for District 17, an American Motorcycle Association organization that competes in Illinois. She described that race as featuring specialty made cycles through an obstacle course.
Its timed, but slow and about balancing, Angie said. His Parkinsons prevented him from competing again after he was diagnosed.
For the race in Colorado, Weikert will ride a 1974 Honda 250cc motorcycle. The cycle was built and is owned by Paynes Cycle Center in Rock Island. He is only one of two riders from Iowa to compete in the 200-man race.
Heading to Colorado with Jeff and his wife for the race on July 8 are their two sons, Jonathan and Jacob and Jacobs wife, Jessica. Others include members of Paynes Cycle Center and other friends and family to help with their fundraising.
After Jeff was diagnosed, he and his wife sought information about the disease through the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinsons Research. For the race, the Weikerts have teamed up with the foundation to help raise awareness and money.
Original post:
Man's 'Race to the Clouds' will help fight Parkinson’s disease
WAPELLO, Iowa Riding a motorcycle takes a steady hand. Although Jeff Weikert doesnt have that luxury anymore, that wont stop him from riding.
In 2009, Weikert, 51, of Wapello, was diagnosed with Parkinsons disease, a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system. The disease hasnt stopped him from riding, though.
The career motorcycle and stock car racer signed up to participate in the 90th edition of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, also known as the Race to the Clouds, in Colorado Springs, Colo.
To participate, one has to submit a resume of personal racing history. After Weikert submitted his on Dec. 1, 2011, his wife, Angie, 46, said they were invited to participate in the race.
Its fine with me, and hes been racing since Ive known him, Angie said. Its one more race that was on his bucket list.
Angie said the last race that her husband participated in was in 2010 for District 17, an American Motorcycle Association organization that competes in Illinois. She described that race as featuring specialty made cycles through an obstacle course.
Its timed, but slow and about balancing, Angie said. His Parkinsons prevented him from competing again after he was diagnosed.
For the race in Colorado, Weikert will ride a 1974 Honda 250cc motorcycle. The cycle was built and is owned by Paynes Cycle Center in Rock Island. He is only one of two riders from Iowa to compete in the 200-man race.
Heading to Colorado with Jeff and his wife for the race on July 8 are their two sons, Jonathan and Jacob and Jacobs wife, Jessica. Others include members of Paynes Cycle Center and other friends and family to help with their fundraising.
After Jeff was diagnosed, he and his wife sought information about the disease through the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinsons Research. For the race, the Weikerts have teamed up with the foundation to help raise awareness and money.
Original post:
Man's 'Race to the Clouds' will help fight Parkinson’s disease
Kiss Goodbye to Multiple Sclerosis
May 25 June 5 is MS Awareness Week, where we are all encouraged to learn more about the condition and Kiss Goodbye to MS.
Although MS can affects vision, balance and speech, living with MS does not have to mean the loss of independence in the home.
Tunstall Healthcare provides a personal alarm that allows the wearer to activate a call for assistance and puts them in immediate contact with Tunstalls 24 hour response centre, where the necessary assistance can be organised.
Tunstalls personal alarm can also be interfaced with a fall detector to help manage an increased tendency to fall.
Living with MS does not have to mean a loss of independence with help always available at the press of a button.
To find out more about MS and MS Awareness week visit http://www.msqld.org.
About Tunstall Healthcare With over 2.5 million users globally, Tunstall is the market leading provider of telecare and telehealth solutions. Across Australia Tunstalls solutions support older people and those with long term needs to live independently, by effectively managing their health and wellbeing. Tunstall provides technology, expertise and advice to millions of people enabling them to lead independent more fulfilling lives. For more information on how telecare and telehealth can improve quality of life, visit http://www.tunstallhealthcare.com.au.
ENDS
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Kiss Goodbye to Multiple Sclerosis
SARATOGA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--
The Myelin Repair Foundation (MRF) today announced the results of a new peer-reviewed research study published in Nature Neuroscience that demonstrates functional improvement in immune response modulation and myelin repair with factors derived from mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) treatment in animal models of multiple sclerosis (MS). Funded by the Myelin Repair Foundation, this research conducted by Case Western Reserve University scientists showed positive results with human mesenchymal stem cells in animal models of MS by not only successfully blocking the autoimmune MS response, but also repairing myelin, demonstrating an innovative potential myelin repair treatment for MS.
Multiple sclerosis is a disease of the immune system that attacks the myelin, causing exposed nerves or lesions which block brain signals, causing loss of motor skills, coordination and cognitive ability. Compared to the controls, this research study showed fewer and smaller lesions found on the nerves in the MSC treatment group. MSCs were found to block the formation of scar tissue by suppressing the autoimmune response, which would otherwise cause permanent damage to the nerves. Furthermore, the research showed that MSC treatment also repaired myelin, enhancing myelin regeneration of the damaged axon and the rewrapping of the myelin around the axon in animal models of MS. One treatment of MSCs provided long-term protection of the recurring disease.
Led by Myelin Repair Foundation Principal Investigator and Vice President for Research & Technology Management at Case Western Reserve Universitys Dr. Robert Miller, this study documents a new promising pathway for treating multiple sclerosis that blocks the autoimmune response and reverses the myelin damage in animal models of MS. The human MSCs used in this study were culled from adult stem cells derived from the bone marrow.
We are thrilled with the publication of this important research study that examines a new pathway to treat multiple sclerosis, one that reverses the damage of the disease, said Dr. Robert Miller. Since we were just beginning to understand how MSCs provide myelin repair for lesions, with the Myelin Repair Foundations support, we continue to deepen our knowledge of exploring the next generation of MS treatments that stimulate healing, rather than symptom suppression of the disease.
We pride ourselves on supporting best-in-class scientists devoted to find new ways to treat multiple sclerosis, advancing highly innovative research projects that otherwise would not have moved forward, said Scott Johnson, president of the Myelin Repair Foundation. The success of Case Western Reserve Universitys study and recognition in this prestigious journal furthers our goal to identify new pathways to treat multiple sclerosis by supporting a multi-disciplinary team of the best researchers in the field.
About the Myelin Repair Foundation
The Myelin Repair Foundation (MRF) (http://www.myelinrepair.org) is a Silicon Valley-based, non-profit research organization focused on accelerating the discovery and development of myelin repair therapeutics for multiple sclerosis. Its Accelerated Research Collaboration (ARC) model is designed to optimize the entire process of medical research, drug development and the delivery of patient treatments.
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Nature Neuroscience Study Shows Unique Scientific Support for Potential New Myelin Repair Treatment for Multiple ...
A BRISTOL scientist believes the city is entering a golden age for research into dementia.
The city has long been a leading centre for research into Alzheimer's and other forms of the brain disorder both nationally and internationally but a Bristol University professor believes that ongoing projects in the city could lead to treatments being developed to help patients.
Professor Seth Love examining a brain at the brain bank at Frenchay Hospital. Left, Chief executive of Brace Mark Poarch
And professor of neuropathology Seth Love credited a small Bristol charity for funding much of the early research that has led to the larger trials that could see huge strides being made in the treatment of dementia in coming years.
Brace, which is based at Frenchay Hospital, is celebrating its 25th anniver- sary of funding research into Alzheimer's in Bristol, Bath and Cardiff.
As well as celebrating the landmark, the charity which started when people were still doubtful about the impact research could have on dementia can celebrate its involvement with an initial study that could lead to a drug being made available to ease the symptoms and early progression of dementia.
Prof Love said that much of the research that is now being carried out into Alzheimer's in the South West Dementia Group has come out of research conducted in the brain bank on the Frenchay Hospital site.
"For quite a while now we have been one of the leading pre-clinical dementia research groups in the UK with a strong international reputation," he said.
"And to a large extent that is down to Brace who have been funding and providing core support for many years.
"Without Brace we would not exist. As a result of the work which has been done with the support of the South West Dementia Brain Bank and Brace funding, I think we are really entering a golden age in dementia research here in Bristol and are now in a position to take some of the research advances that we have made here with the brain bank with support from Brace and other charities and the research can be translated then into treatments for patients with dementia."
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The Post published Golden age for research into dementia in Bristol
21 May 2012 Last updated at 01:08 ET By Adam Brimelow Health Correspondent, BBC News
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Carey Mulligan tells the BBC's Adam Brimelow about her grandmother's Alzheimer's
A poll has suggested more than four out of 10 people know - or have known - someone with dementia.
The Yougov survey indicates strong concern about dementia across all ages.
It suggests young adults are most likely to want to learn more about the condition.
The Oscar-nominated actress, Carey Mulligan, whose grandmother has Alzheimer's, has become an "ambassador" for the Alzheimer's Society to help promote awareness of the condition.
Carey's grandmother - who she calls Nans - was diagnosed with Alzheimer's eight years ago. The actress, who is now 26, spent many happy childhood holidays staying with her, and says they were very close.
Witnessing her grandmother's confusion and distress as the disease took hold was painful for the whole family.
Carey says there is now almost no communication or recognition from "Nans", but that she still delights in music.
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Actress aids dementia awareness
How do we recognise the symptoms of dementia and when should we seek medical help? HEMA VIJAY discusses the problem that affects the elderly with experts
It is a tricky to diagnose dementia because it manifests itself in many ways, and the early signs are often difficult to recognise. Dementia means a progressive decline in the ability to remember, to think and to reason. Dementia is not normal ageing or accelerated ageing, but a qualitative and quantitative change in the brain's function, explains veteran geriatrist, Dr. V.S. Natarajan.
Sometimes, patients do realise the onset of dementia and may be the first to know; others don't realise they have a problem and say, I am fine, my family is imagining things', elaborates Dr. V. L. Arul Selvan, consultant neurologist, Apollo Hospitals. For instance, there was an English professor who got wary about his mental state when he noticed he couldn't find the right words during lectures, while all along he had been so fluent. On the other hand, a person whose gamut of activities is limited may not display tell tale signs of dementia; but when guests come visiting, they may notice the changes.
Changed behaviour
There may be behavioural changes an irritable person may suddenly become quiet; a person choosy about food earlier may now eat whatever is put on his plate. There are those who may forget words and start speaking ungrammatically or telegraphically in broken sentences using just a few words. Some may become withdrawn, while others may forget learned processes when given a brush and paste, they may spread the paste on the handle rather than the bristles. Forgetting people, where objects had been kept, important dates, losing social inhibitions and forgetting behavioural norms are some effects of dementia.
Initially, some of these changes may seem harmless, but serious symptoms develop later. Initially, trivial things are forgotten; later, they forget important data such as their own door number, warns Dr. Lakshmi Vijaykumar, psychiatrist. One elderly man started handing out money to everyone who asked for it. He gave Rs.10,000 to an auto driver who was probably expecting Rs.500. It means he has lost his sense of judgment, explains Dr. Arul Selvan. Then, there was an elderly person who passed urine in front of everybody, without feeling embarrassed dementia has robbed him of social learned behaviour. So, be alert to changed behaviour and loss of memory in those aged 60 and above. Don't wait till the problem gets too bad.
The dementia test
Thankfully, there are simple tests available to evaluate mental function and diagnose dementia even its early stages such as the MMSE test that consists of a series of questions that takes just 10 minutes to administer. There are the very quick Clock Drawing test, the MOCA test, and the Clinical Dementia Rating tests, which are a comprehensive screening tool used for detection of dementia as well as for follow up. These tests can be performed by competent geriatrists, psychiatrists and neurologists. While doing these tests, the individual's vision, hearing, etc. have to be taken into account, as he may have good mental function but may not be able to demonstrate this because of tremors, Dr. Natarajan cautions.
A small percentage of people in the age group 60 to 70 get dementia. One-third of the population aged above 85 gets dementia. So, anyone reaching the age of 70 should take the test for dementia, regardless of the symptoms. In case of a family history of dementia or past history of head injury, dementia tests should be taken even when the individual is in his fifties. In our country, vascular dementia is common because of rampant diabetes and hypertension, and this affects younger people too, remarks Dr. Arul Selvan.
Treating the condition
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Could it be dementia?
'We need to stop worrying and start understanding dementia,' says charity spokesman Carers are 'amazing source of inspiration' says actress Carey Mulligan, whose grandmother has Alzheimer's
By Jenny Hope
PUBLISHED: 02:10 EST, 21 May 2012 | UPDATED: 03:50 EST, 21 May 2012
Two out of three older people are worried about dementia - but most dont want to know any more about it, says a new survey.
It reveals that 66 per cent of people aged 55 and over have worries about brain diseases such as Alzheimers - and it is the age group with the biggest fears.
But almost as many young people aged 18-24 - 61 per cent - are worried.
Carey Mulligan is now an Ambassador for the Alzheimer's Society - her grandmother was diagnosed with the condition eight years ago
More women than men are anxious about dementia, 70 per cent compared with 56 per cent of men.
However, fewer than one in six older people want to learn more about the disease, says a joint poll commissioned by Alzheimers Society and Saga Homecare published today.
Oscar-nominated actress, Carey Mulligan, has become an 'ambassador' for the Alzheimer's Society to promote better awareness and less fear of the condition.
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Dementia denial: Two out of three older people are worried¿ but most don¿t want to know more
MILLVILLE The new Cumberland County Center for Autism is in the works and could be open by this time next year.
That is, if Barb Russick has her way.
The mother of a 14-year-old autistic teen and founder of support group Puzzle Peace Moms has been laying the ground work for two years, getting community support, raising funds and attracting the attention of local officials.
Shes wanted a center for autism in Cumberland County for years.
Right now, were looking at the old Millville Development Corporation (MDC) building across the street from Wawa on Route 49, Russick said. Im so excited about this.
She called it a long-awaited dream come true.
When I started Puzzle Peace Moms, a center for autism was always a long-term goal, Russick said.
Her group meets during the first and third Friday of each month at Mount Pleasant Church social hall on Pearl Street in Millville.
There are some major steps Russick and her group need to take before they become the countys go-to center for those seeking education or help for a child living with autism.
First, we need to obtain our nonprofit status, Russick said. Then, we need a grant.
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Cumberland County Center for Autism in the works, needs nonprofit status and grants
By Joe Rios
CREATED May. 20, 2012
(AP) In most developed countries, children with autism usually are sent to school, where they get special education classes. But in France, they are more often sent to a psychiatrist, where they get talk therapy meant for people with psychological or emotional problems.
Things are slowly changing, but not without resistance. Last month, a report by France's top health authority concluded there was no agreement among scientists about whether psychotherapy works for autism, and it was not included in the list of recommended treatments.
That provoked an outcry from psychiatrists. Groups including Freudian societies, the World Association of Psychoanalysis and France's Child Institute started a petition calling on the French government to recognize their clinical approach, focused on psychotherapy.
"The situation in France is sort of like the U.S. in the 1950s," said Fred Volkmar, a U.S. expert who directs the Child Study Center at Yale University. "The French have a very idiosyncratic view of autism, and for some reason, they are not convinced by the evidence."
Behavioral methods, which focus on helping autistic children communicate with others and develop social skills, are the norm in Britain, Canada, Japan, the United States and elsewhere in Europe. But they're seldom used in France.
France has long been criticized for its approach to treating autism. In 2002, the charity Autism Europe lodged a complaint against France with the Council of Europe, charging the country was refusing to educate autistic children, as required under the European Social Charter.
The charge was upheld, and the European Committee of Social Rights declared, "France has failed to achieve sufficient progress" in educating autistic children. The committee also slammed France for making autistic people "an excluded group" and said there was a chronic shortage of care.
Volkmar said some forms of psychotherapy might be helpful for high-functioning autistic children to handle specific problems such as anxiety but should not be considered a first-line treatment. He said the vast majority of autistic children in the United States more than 95 percent attend school.
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French Autism Therapy Criticized