Monthly Archives: September 2012

Gamida Cell Completes Enrollment for Phase I/II Study of Second Pipeline Product NiCord® for Hematological Malignancies

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JERUSALEM--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Gamida Cell, a leader in adult stem cell expansion technologies and products, announced today that it has completed enrollment for a Phase I/II clinical trial of NiCord, the companys second pipeline product.

NiCord is in development as an experimental treatment for a series of indications that potentially could be cured with a bone marrow transplantation including hematological malignancies (blood cancer), sickle cell disease, thalassemia, severe autoimmune diseases and metabolic diseases. The clinical trial announced today (clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT01221857) is studying NiCord as an alternative investigational treatment for hematological malignancies (HM). A combined total of 11 patients were transplanted at Duke University Medical Center and at Loyola University Medical Center. Dr. Mitchell E. Horwitz of Duke University Medical Center is the principal investigator. Final results of the Phase I/II study are expected within 6 months. The company is also actively enrolling for a Phase I/II study of NiCord as an experimental treatment for sickle cell, a genetic blood disease (clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT01590628).

NiCord is an expanded cell graft derived from an entire unit of umbilical cord blood enriched with stem cells. NiCord was developed based on Gamida Cells proprietary NAM technology. As the Phase I/II trial for HM is a first in man safety and efficacy study, for this stage, NiCord was transplanted with a second un-manipulated cord blood unit in a double cord blood configuration.

Dr. Tony Peled, chief scientific officer and vice president of research & development at Gamida Cell, said, Pre-clinical data demonstrated the uniqueness of NAM technology in not only decreasing the aging process but also preserving the characteristics and functions of ex vivo expanded stem cells (Experimental Hematology 2012;40:342355). Of significance, the Phase I/II clinical trial data have already shown that many of the patients in the study engrafted with the expanded cells of NiCord rather than with the second un-manipulated unit. This is the first time, in a situation where two units are transplanted, that the cultured stem cells demonstrated prompt and durable long-term engraftment (over one year) in the clinic. We look forward to sharing the complete results of this study in the coming months.

Dr. Yael Margolin, CEO of Gamida Cell, said, The clinical progress of the companys second pipeline product reaffirms Gamida Cells leadership role in the stem cell industry and the companys expertise in bone marrow transplantation. In the near future we plan to not only release the NiCord Phase I/II data but also the long awaited complete results of the Phase III study of StemEx, also for hematological malignancies, but clearly further ahead in development. The company remains on course with the development of StemEx and is considering strategic partners to develop its expanding pipeline of products and to bring StemEx to market.

About Gamida Cell

Gamida Cell is a world leader in stem cell population expansion technologies and stem cell therapy products for transplantation and regenerative medicine. The companys pipeline of stem cell therapy products are in development to treat a wide range of conditions including blood cancers, solid tumors, non-malignant hematological diseases such as hemoglobinopathies, neutropenia and acute radiation syndrome, autoimmune diseases and metabolic diseases as well as conditions that can be helped by regenerative medicine. Gamida Cells therapeutic candidates contain populations of adult stem cells, selected from non-controversial sources such as umbilical cord blood, bone marrow and peripheral blood, which are expanded in culture. Gamida Cells current shareholders include: Elbit Imaging (NASDAQ: EMITF), Clal Biotechnology Industries (TASE: CBI), Israel Healthcare Venture, Teva Pharmaceutical Industries (NADAQ:TEVA), Amgen, Denali Ventures and Auriga Ventures. For more information, please visit: http://www.gamida-cell.com.

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Gamida Cell Completes Enrollment for Phase I/II Study of Second Pipeline Product NiCord® for Hematological Malignancies

Leading Stem Cell Scientists to Focus on Diabetes, Eye Diseases at Cedars-Sinai Symposium

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James A. Thomson, VMD, PhD, founder of human pluripotent stem cells, to give opening lecture

Newswise LOS ANGELES Sept. 17, 2012 Leading scientists and clinicians from across the nation will discuss the latest findings on potential stem cell treatments for diabetes and eye diseases at the second Cedars-Sinai Regenerative Medicine Scientific Symposium.

WHO: Stem cell scientists, clinicians and industry leaders.

The symposium is being hosted by the Cedars-Sinai Regenerative Medicine Institute, led by Clive Svendsen, PhD. The institute brings together basic scientists with specialist clinicians, physician scientists and translational scientists across multiple medical specialties to convert fundamental stem cell studies to therapeutic regenerative medicine.

FEATURED RESEARCH: The symposiums morning session will feature an overview of the current state of stem cells and diabetes, including efforts to start the first clinical trials with stem cells for the treatment of diabetes. Other research to be presented includes an update on regenerative medicine approaches to treating macular degeneration, a progressive deterioration of the eye that causes gradual loss of vision. This will include an update from Gad Heilweil, MD, on a key, stem-cell clinical trial on macular degeneration at the University of California Los Angeles.

WHEN: Sept. 21, 2012 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thomsons lecture begins at 8:40 a.m.

WHERE: Harvey Morse Auditorium Cedars-Sinai Medical Center 8700 Beverly Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90048

How to register: http://www.cedars-sinai.edu/RMI

Media Contact: Members of news media interested in attending or learning more about the presentations should contact Media Specialist Nicole White at nicole.white@cshs.org or 310-423-5215.

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Leading Stem Cell Scientists to Focus on Diabetes, Eye Diseases at Cedars-Sinai Symposium

Symposium attracts top stem cell researchers

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BRIDGEWATER Scientists from all over the country gathered for the sixth annual New Jersey Stem Cell Research Symposium on Wednesday at the Bridgewater Marriott hotel.

Researchers presented discoveries to an audience of about 250 people, with the University contributing 42 displays on findings in fields ranging from leukemia to addiction.

The symposium was designed to help different personnel in the field meet to boost productivity, said Kathryn Drzewiecki, a University graduate student in biomedical engineering.

Its good to have research and industry together to help each other, said Drzewiecki, who studied devices meant to culture stem cells. We can tell them what they need and they can get those products to be developed.

The Universitys Center for Stem Cell Research co-sponsored the symposium.

Ron Hart, professor of cell biology and neuroscience at the University, said the University is on the forefront of stem cell research and has the largest collection of human blood cells in the world. Half a million samples are stored in the Cell and DNA Repository and are now being used to generate stem cells for research, he said.

We turn them into neurons and begin to study mechanisms of disorders, Hart said. So there are several labs in Rutgers that are dealing with various diseases. Thats what makes our University special in this aspect.

Among the projects featured at the symposium was a new machine introduced by Life Technologies, a global life-sciences company, designed to copy a genome sequence quicker and cheaper than before.

Although the machine, called the Ion Proton Sequencer, costs $200,000, the chip used to take tissue samples has been reduced from its current cost of $500,000 to about $1,000, said Marsha Slater, application specialist for Life Technologies.

Thats going to create a lot of change in how medicine is done, Slater said. Cancer patients will be able to get their tissue samples sequenced, see what mutations are there which will help choose the best chemotherapy for the patient.

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Symposium attracts top stem cell researchers

America Stem Cell, Inc. Awarded a Phase I STTR to Explore the Therapeutic Potential of Its Platform Technology (ASC …

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SAN ANTONIO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

America Stem Cell, Inc. (ASC) today announced that it has been awarded an Advanced Technology Small Business Technology Transfer Research (STTR) grant from the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute at the National Institutes of Health. This grant will be conducted in collaboration with scientists at the Wake Forest Institute of Regenerative Medicine (WFIRM) in Winston-Salem, NC, and will explore the combination of two technologies: ASC-101 developed by America Stem Cell and amniotic fluid-derived stem cells discovered and pioneered by Dr. Shay Soker and colleagues at WFIRM. We will examine the effect of ASC-101-treated amniotic fluid-derived stem cells in an experimental model of compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome results from a variety of injuries such as fractures, contusions, burns, trauma, post-ischemic swelling and blast injuries such as gunshot wounds. If not addressed quickly, it can lead to considerable loss of muscle tissue. Musculoskeletal disorders are the primary cause of disability in the United States with associated costs of more than $800 billion annually. In addition to civilian injuries, more than 42,000 soldiers have been injured since the beginning of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars: the majority of these injuries were musculoskeletal in nature.

America Stem Cell has demonstrated that ASC-101 enhances the ability of stem cells to migrate to their target tissue. While most companies are concerned with the type of cells used for cell therapy (i.e. the hardware), America Stem Cell addresses how to get the cells to go where they are needed most (i.e. the software). With this award, America Stem Cell will expand the potential for therapeutic application of ASC-101 with amniotic fluid-derived stem cells. According to Dr. Leonard Miller, the Co-Principal Investigator on the grant, The successful combination of ASC-101 with amniotic fluid-derived stem cells would be directly relevant to improving the treatment of muscle damage that occurs following compartment syndrome as well as multiple other types of injuries.

America Stem Cell, Inc. is a clinical stage company that is in clinical trials at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center for improving clinical outcomes for cancer patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. This award enables America Stem Cell to expand the development of ASC-101 to yet another cell type. Lynnet Koh, CEO of America Stem Cell, noted, The combination of ASC-101 with amniotic fluid-derived stem cells could synergistically enhance the therapeutic and regenerative capacity of these cells and most importantly provide an off-the-shelf, effective solution for tissue damage due to multiple types of injuries or diseases. ASC-101 is a transformative technology with the potential to improve clinical outcomes for patients undergoing a wide variety of cell therapies for the treatment of diseases such as graft versus host disease, diabetic complications, and ischemic diseases such as myocardial infarctions, retinopathy and critical limb ischemia. America Stem Cell has established a number of collaborations examining the potential of ASC-101 to improve cell therapies for multiple clinical conditions using a wide variety of cell types.

About America Stem Cell, Inc.

America Stem Cell is a privately held biotechnology company based in San Antonio, TX, with offices in San Diego, CA, and is dedicated to the development and commercialization of enabling technologies to enhance and expand the therapeutic potential of cell therapies. The key technology platforms (ASC-101 and ASC-102) are designed to improve the homing and engraftment of cells to target organs. ASC-101 is currently in clinical trials to improve the therapeutic potential of hematopoietic stem cells for patients in need of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Additionally, these technologies have the potential to enhance the efficacy of cell therapies for the treatment of inflammation from chemotherapy/radiation, autoimmune diseases, and ischemic diseases including myocardial infarction and stroke. America Stem Cell has partnerships and collaborations with Kyowa Hakko Kirin, Spectrum Medical Innvoations, Florida Biologix, and various medical research institutions including the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center,,University of California San Diego, Sanford-Burnham Institute, Indiana University, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, as well as corporate partnerships. For additional information, please contact Lynnet Koh at 210-410-6427, or view http://www.americastemcell.com.

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America Stem Cell, Inc. Awarded a Phase I STTR to Explore the Therapeutic Potential of Its Platform Technology (ASC ...

South Korean lawmakers one step from rigorous new system for stem cell Advancement: scientists, physicians and …

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SEOUL, South Korea, Sept. 19, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Seung-Jo Yang, a Parliament member, prepared a bill proposing new law for the management and transplantation of stem cells. On September 17, the National Health and Welfare Committee referred the bill to the Conference for review. The previous 18th National Assembly proposed a similar stem cell bill when much of its term had already passed so it was not fully discussed until the period ended, disappointing many patients with rare diseases. The Bill was referred to the 19th National Assembly, though, which shows the willingness of South Korean leaders to meet the expectations that this new law will be passed coming from the medical community and patient groups throughout South Korea.

Dr. Jeong-Chan Ra, president of RNL BIO's stem cell technology institute said "This effort for new stem cell bill will advance the use and sophistication of autologous adult stem cell technology as a powerful solution for overcoming incurable diseases." Dr. Ra, whose pioneering efforts in Korean stem cell research are known worldwide, is equally known in Korea as an ardent advocate for governmental investment in regenerative medicine. Perhaps no scientist has pushed harder for rigorous standards for stem cell banking, which this proposal may at last bring to fruition.

In South Korea stem cell banks have not been operated under a specific legal structure, so development and progress has been limited. The proposed law suggests that the harvesting and preservation of stem cells must be controlled by national regulation, specifically a management system for stem cell harvesting, storage and implantation. Through this, stem cell experts expect growth in responsible stem cell research and faster, even safer development of therapeutics.

Additionally, the current Korean policy requires stem cell programs - regardless of whether there are available therapies for patients with any particular condition - to complete clinical trial phase III for market approval. Had such rules been in place, for example, for the treatment of H.I.V., tens of thousands of people would have died. Many treatments for those with incurable diseases have been approved without completion of Phase III including stem cell treatments in other nations, even for the treatment of HIV, which stem cells have now cured. The bill under consideration proposes that physicians can use their own stem cells to treat conditions under their discretion if those stem cells are properly expanded, managed, handled and provided to clinicians for them at or above the proposed standards, which is the best news patients with incurable diseases for which no existing cure is available by current medicine have had in a long time.

When the bill is passed, high standards will be established and the better methods will immediately be made obvious to both government and patients. Through this the stem cell community expects a leap in industrial growth, and a leap in the ethical adherence of physicians to do no harm to patients and to provide remedies where possible for the aid of their patients.

The Korean medical community also expects not only to see an influx of domestic patients but also many patients from other nations that lack standards for the growth of patients' own stem cells. South Korea, many economists predict, could become the Mecca for stem cell therapeutics.

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South Korean lawmakers one step from rigorous new system for stem cell Advancement: scientists, physicians and ...

Purple corn extracts show benefits for diabetic’s kidney health

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Compounds in purple corn may protect against the development of the kidney condition diabetic nephropathy, one of the most serious complications related to diabetes, suggests new research.

Scientists from Hallym University in Korea report in the American Journal of Physiology Renal Physiology that anthocyanin-rich purple corn may inhibit multiple pathways involved in the development of diabetic nephropathy.

The research also suggests that supplementation with purple corn anthocyanins may be an important strategy in preventing renal vascular disease in type-2 diabetes, they added.

The researchers cultured cells in the lab in solutions of varying concentrations of anthocyanins, and then assessed for level of monocyte-endothelial cell adhesion, a major factor in the hardening of the glomerulus in the kidney of diabetics (diabetic glomerulosclerosis). This was corroborated with data from experiments with lab mice fed a diet supplemented with the purple corn extracts for eight weeks.

Results showed that the anthocyanins inhibited pathways that led to diabetic glomerulosclerosis, as well as the induction of some inflammatory processes in the mice.

Source: American Journal of Physiology Renal Physiology Published online ahead of print, doi: 10.1152/ajprenal.00106.2012 Purple corn anthocyanins inhibit diabetes-associated glomerular monocyte activation and macrophage infiltration Authors: M-K. Kang, J. Li, J-L. Kim, J-H. Gong, et al.

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Purple corn extracts show benefits for diabetic’s kidney health

Hospitals, Healthcare Providers to Benefit from New Premier Agreements for Digital Pathology Systems, Accessories and …

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CHARLOTTE, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

The Premier healthcare alliance today announced a new agreement for digital pathology systems, accessories and service has been awarded to DigiPath Inc. a small business enterprise, of Henderson, Nev.

Effective August 1, 2012, the agreement is available to acute care and continuum of care members of Premier.

About the Premier healthcare alliance, Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award recipient

Premier is a performance improvement alliance of more than 2,600 U.S. hospitals and 88,000-plus other sites using the power of collaboration and technology to lead the transformation to coordinated, high-quality, cost-effective care. Owned by hospitals, health systems and other providers, Premier operates a leading healthcare purchasing network with more than $4 billion in annual savings. Premier also maintains the nation's largest clinical, financial and outcomes database with information on 1 in 4 patient discharges. A world leader in delivering measurable improvements in care, Premier works with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., Premier also has an office in Washington. https://www.premierinc.com. Stay connected on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

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Hospitals, Healthcare Providers to Benefit from New Premier Agreements for Digital Pathology Systems, Accessories and ...

Chris Powell Endorsed Product Line Named Favorite New Product

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SCOTTSDALE, AZ--(Marketwire - Sep 18, 2012) - Last night, Vemma Nutrition Company won two prestigious awards at the 2012 American Business Awards at a gala event held in San Francisco. Endorsed by TV Celebrity Transformation Specialist, Chris Powell, the Vemma Bod- healthy weight management product line won the People's Choice Stevie Award for Favorite Consumer Product or Service. In addition, the Vemma Bod- App received a Gold Stevie Award in the Lifestyle App category.

The award trophies were presented to Vemma at a gala ceremony on September 17th at the Julia Morgan Ballroom in downtown San Francisco, CA. They were presented as part of the second (and final) phase of judging for the 2012 American Business Awards.

To receive a coveted crystal People's Choice Award, Vemma Bod- received the highest number of votes in the consumer products and services category. A total of 98,000 consumer votes were cast in 30 categories.

"These are awesome products that are helping people see real results, so it's great that they're getting these accolades," says Chris Powell. "People really love the taste and what these products do for their body."

Other notable People's Choice winners included Apple (for the iPad 2 and iPhone 4S), Humana health insurance, and Appsbar, a free online apps building service.

The Vemma Bod- App -- which features daily tips, support and inspiration from Heidi Powell, Vemma Bod- Spokesperson, Personal Trainer and Life Coach -- was judged by executives from a 270-person panel and ultimately selected as the Gold winner (the competition's highest honor) in the lifestyle app category.

More than 3,000 entries were submitted in this year's competition. Other Gold Stevie award winners included favorite American brands such as NASCAR, Verizon Wireless, Ford Motor Company and Hilton Hotels and Resorts.

The Vemma Bod- product line launched in January 2012, sparking the company's first million dollar sales day. Vemma Founder and CEO BK Boreyko commented, "It's been an exciting year with the Vemma Bod- launch and we are honored with these wins at the Stevies. These awards are a reflection of the hard work of our stellar staff and the talented Brand Partners who represent our company with such integrity. I sincerely thank the Vemma Brand Partners and Vemma Bod- consumers for choosing us as their favorite consumer product."

The American Business Awards are the nation's premier business awards for companies of all sizes and industries. For more information about The American Business Awards and a complete list of winners, go to: http://www.stevieawards.com/aba.

About Vemma Founded in 2004 by BK Boreyko, Vemma Nutrition Company is rapidly growing as one of the premier industry leaders specializing in premium liquid nutrition. Every day, thousands of people join the company's mission to make a positive difference in the lives of others through the sharing of the clinically studied Vemma formula. The Vemma brands, including Verve, a healthy energy drink, coupled with the company's rewarding business opportunity help people to live a better quality of life, both physically and financially. Vemma is headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona and distributes its products through a global network of independent Brand Partners operating in approximately 50 countries. For more information about Vemma visit the company's social media newsroom.

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Chris Powell Endorsed Product Line Named Favorite New Product

Longevity Revolution Means Broader Role for Chiropractice

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Media Release

Date: 20th September 2012

Longevity Revolution Means Broader Role for Chiropractice Australasian Meeting Told

The longevity revolution epitomised by ageing baby boomers means a broader role for chiropractors in helping people with decreased muscle or bone density and balance issues which add to the risk of falling, a conference of New Zealand, Australian and International chiropractors in Auckland was told this week.

The conference during the weekend (14th-16th September) organised by the New Zealand College of Chiropractic heard that the implications of the baby boomer generation reaching retirement age meant healthcare providers needed a better understanding of the unique role chiropractic can play. Delegates learned about the various chiropractic techniques best suited to the elderly, how to effectively manage any rare associated risks and also a better idea of the expectations that seniors have of their care.

Dr Graham Dobson, chiropractor, Director of the Technique Department at the New Zealand College of Chiropractic told the meeting that chiropractic had: `a vital part to play in reducing pain and the need for pharmaceuticals, increasing joint mobility and improved overall quality of life by helping to maintain function and a positive attitude.

He noted that chiropractic care has often been associated only with the management of limited musculoskeletal disorders by the application of spinal manipulative therapy but that increasingly chiropractors were using multiple techniques to assist the patient as a whole by addressing the nervous system, not only his or her musculoskeletal symptoms. Research is beginning to point at chiropractic as having a role to play in the multi disciplinary management of people with conditions such as sarcopenia (muscle loss) and osteoporosis.

However, Dr Dobson warned that it is important for chiropractors to evaluate older patients carefully to take account of factors such as osteoporosis, multiple interactions of prescription medications as well as the risk of falls.

Research into how chiropractic care for older people may reduce injuries and even deaths from falls is being conducted by Auckland University and the Centre for Chiropractic Research (CCR) at the New Zealand College of Chiropractic.

According to Chiropractor, PhD candidate and principal investigator of the study Dr Kelly Holt, falls often occur due to a decline in nervous system function with advancing age. This can lead to a loss of balance, or poor control of the limbs, which dramatically increases the risk of falling.

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Longevity Revolution Means Broader Role for Chiropractice

Longevity revolution 'means broader role for chiropractors'

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The longevity revolution epitomised by ageing baby boomers means a broader role for chiropractors in helping people with decreased muscle or bone density and balance issues which add to the risk of falling, a conference of New Zealand, Australian and International chiropractors in Auckland was told this week.

The conference during the weekend (14th-16th September) organised by the New Zealand College of Chiropractic heard that the implications of the baby boomer generation reaching retirement age meant healthcare providers needed a better understanding of the unique role chiropractic can play. Delegates learned about the various chiropractic techniques best suited to the elderly, how to effectively manage any rare associated risks and also a better idea of the expectations that seniors have of their care.

Dr Graham Dobson, chiropractor, Director of the Technique Department at the New Zealand College of Chiropractic told the meeting that chiropractic had: a vital part to play in reducing pain and the need for pharmaceuticals, increasing joint mobility and improved overall quality of life by helping to maintain function and a positive attitude.

He noted that chiropractic care has often been associated only with the management of limited musculoskeletal disorders by the application of spinal manipulative therapy but that increasingly chiropractors were using multiple techniques to assist the patient as a whole by addressing the nervous system, not only his or her musculoskeletal symptoms. Research is beginning to point at chiropractic as having a role to play in the multi disciplinary management of people with conditions such as sarcopenia (muscle loss) and osteoporosis.

However, Dr Dobson warned that it is important for chiropractors to evaluate older patients carefully to take account of factors such as osteoporosis, multiple interactions of prescription medications as well as the risk of falls.

Research into how chiropractic care for older people may reduce injuries and even deaths from falls is being conducted by Auckland University and the Centre for Chiropractic Research (CCR) at the New Zealand College of Chiropractic.

According to Chiropractor, PhD candidate and principal investigator of the study Dr Kelly Holt, falls often occur due to a decline in nervous system function with advancing age. This can lead to a loss of balance, or poor control of the limbs, which dramatically increases the risk of falling.

Dr Holt says: Already it is estimated that in New Zealand slips, trips and falls cost almost $300 million per year in treatment and rehabilitation costs and as the population ages this will likely get worse. He says that falls result in approximately 450 deaths per year in New Zealand and for older adults in particular, a fall can lead to a downward spiral that involves a loss of confidence, a cessation of day to day activities and eventually increased frailty and even death.

For further information on the New Zealand Chiropractors Association visit http://www.chiropractic.org.nz.

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Longevity revolution 'means broader role for chiropractors'

Study: DNA barcoding can ID natural health products

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Public release date: 19-Sep-2012 [ | E-mail | Share ]

Contact: Prof. Mehrdad Hajibabaei Biodiversity Institute of Ontario mhajibab@uoguelph.ca 519-824-4120 x52487 University of Guelph

DNA barcoding developed by University of Guelph researchers has proven up to 88 per cent effective in authenticating natural health products, according to a new U of G study.

The study appears in the latest issue of Food Research International.

It's a crucial finding because the health product industry is under-regulated worldwide and mislabelling poses economic, health, legal and environmental implications, says study author Mehrdad Hajibabaei.

"Currently there is no other broadly applicable tool that can identify the species used in both animal and plant natural health products as rapidly and cost-effectively," said Hajibabaei, a U of G integrative biology professor and director of technology development for the Guelph-based Biodiversity Institute of Ontario (BIO).

Up to about 80 per cent of people in developed countries use natural health products, including vitamins, minerals and herbal remedies. In Canada, these products have been regulated since 2004. But regulators face a backlog of licence applications, and thousands of products on the market lack a full product licence. In the U.S. and the U.K., regulatory problems involving natural health products have affected consistency and safety.

Authenticating natural product capsules or tablets -- containing dried fragments rather than whole specimens -- poses challenges.

DNA barcoding allows scientists to use short standardized regions of genetic material to identify species and compare them to reference genetic sequences, said Hajibabaei.

The technique works for all life stages and even for fragments of organisms, allowing scientists to ID even dried contents of a small pill.

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Study: DNA barcoding can ID natural health products

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DNA tagging used to fight theft

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DNA technology should dramatically cut the number of thefts from schools after being rolled out in Kapiti by Police Minister Anne Tolley.

SelectaDNA, an invisible liquid with a unique sequence of DNA including 60 chromosomes in every bottle, can be applied to laptops, musical instruments, trophies, or any other items at risk of being stolen from schools.

Police can identify the owner of a recovered item through a DNA test, or by looking at a microdot under a microscope.

At the Wellington region launch at Kapiti College, Mrs Tolley said schools were a traditional target of crime.

"As schools use technology more and more on a daily basis . . . these items are very saleable, so they have become a target. It's absolutely heartbreaking when these no-goods come in and steal it. All of that creates an enormous range of victims."

SelectaDNA director David Morrissey said the liquid had first been used in South Auckland, and had helped reduce crime there by about 60 per cent, which he described as "quite phenomenal".

It was also noticed during the trial that no crime, including tagging, had occurred at either of the three schools taking part.

Now 1600 schools have been given SelectaDNA, and 244 more schools in the Wellington region are being given deterrent kits this week.

By the end of the year, every school in the North Island will have a kit, and all South Island schools should have received one by term three of next year.

Early figures show crime decreasing by about 40 per cent at schools with SelectaDNA.

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DNA tagging used to fight theft

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New George Zimmerman evidence: Details on Trayvon's DNA on Zimmerman and vice versa

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State evidence released today in the George Zimmerman second-degree murder case shows new details from a state crime lab that found Zimmerman's DNA on Trayvon Martin, the teenager he shot to death, and Trayvon's DNA on him.

But the gun that Zimmerman used to kill Trayvon that night a gun that Zimmerman told police the teenager had reached for - revealed no evidence that Trayvon touched it.

State scientists checked several parts of the 9 mm handgun: its grip, trigger, slide and holster. They found Zimmerman's DNA and that belonging to other unidentifiable people but none that matched Trayvon, records show.

The gun evidence is important because Zimmerman told Sanford police he opened fire only after the 17-year-old pinned him to the ground and reached for the gun he wore holstered on his waist.

In a re-enactment for Sanford police the next day, Zimmerman did not say or show that the two had struggled over the gun, only that Trayvon had extended his hand toward it.

The 28-year-old Zimmerman killed Trayvon, a Miami Gardens high school junior, Feb. 26 in Sanford.

Zimmerman says he acted in self-defense. Prosecutors say Zimmerman, a Neighborhood Watch volunteer, spotted the black teenager, profiled him, assumed he was about to commit a crime, began following him then murdered him.

Prosecutors today released to the public several hundred pages of evidence. It included no bombshells.

The DNA evidence was among the most compelling because it confirmed that Zimmerman and Trayvon had been in extremely close contact.

Several neighbors reported seeing one on top of the other in a fight that left one of them screaming, Zimmerman with a broken nose and small gashes to his head and Trayvon dead from a gunshot wound to the heart.

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New George Zimmerman evidence: Details on Trayvon's DNA on Zimmerman and vice versa

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George Zimmerman: No DNA evidence of a struggle for his gun

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George Zimmerman claims self defense in the killing of Trayvon Martin. But there's no DNA evidence that Trayvon Martin ever touched George Zimmerman's gun.

Forensic tests made public Wednesday show that George Zimmerman's was the only DNA that could be identified on the grip of the gun used to fatally shoot 17-year-old Trayvon Martin.

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The results rule out Martin's DNA from being on the gun's grip. Zimmerman's DNA also was identified on the gun's holster, but no determination could be made as to whether Martin's DNA was on the gun's holster, according to the report from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

Zimmerman is charged with second-degree murder for fatally shooting Martin during a confrontation in a gated community in Sanford in February. Zimmerman is pleading not guilty, claiming self-defense.

A delay in Zimmerman's arrest led to nationwide protests.

RECOMMENDED: How 5 black men view the Trayvon Martin case

The question of whose DNA is on the gun and holster could play a role in Zimmerman's defense.

Zimmerman says Martin had been on top of him, slamming his head against the ground and smothering his mouth and nose with his hand and arm when he grabbed his gun from a holster on his waist before Martin could get it. He shot the teenager once in the chest.

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George Zimmerman: No DNA evidence of a struggle for his gun

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George Zimmerman's DNA, not Trayvon Martin's, found on gun

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Only DNA from George Zimmerman was found on the grip of the gun that was used in the fatal shooting of unarmed teenager Trayvon Martin, according to DNA test results released Wednesday.

The test results were in the latest batch of discovery material released by officials in the notorious murder case, which has become a national flashpoint in race relations and gun laws. Zimmerman, 28, is free on bail awaiting trial on charges of second-degree murder in the killing of Martin, an African American teenager, who was shot to death in a confrontation at a gated community in Sanford, Fla., on Feb. 26.

The tests on the gun and the holster were performed by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. They found Zimmermans DNA on the gun but could not find any of Martin's. No determination could be made as to whether Martin's DNA was on the holster.

PHOTOS: Tense moments from Trayvon Martin case

Zimmerman has acknowledged shooting Martin, but insists he acted in self-defense in the wake of a confrontation that left him injured.

The DNA findings could play a role in the trial, allowing the prosecution to argue against self-defense since it now seems that Martin never touched the weapon. The defense could counter that Zimmerman shot before Martin could get to the gun.

Zimmerman was not arrested the night of the shooting. After weeks of protests about that fact, a special prosecutor charged Zimmerman, a neighborhood watch volunteer, with second-degree murder.

Among other material released Wednesday was an interview with a clerk of the convenience store where Martin had gone to buy a package of Skittles and a can of iced tea. Martin was returning from the store when the confrontation with Zimmerman took place. The unidentified clerk told authorities he had no recollection of serving Martin.

To be honest, I don't even remember that day, he said.

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George Zimmerman's DNA, not Trayvon Martin's, found on gun

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DNA sampling of arrestees draws skepticism in federal court hearing

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SAN FRANCISCO -- A California law that allows law enforcement to collect DNA samples from anyone arrested for a felony appears to be on shaky legal ground.

During an hour of arguments Wednesday, an 11-judge panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals was largely skeptical of the state's argument that government's public safety interest in collecting DNA from arrestees outweighs constitutional protections against unreasonable searches.

The majority of the judges expressed particular concern that the DNA is taken from people regardless of whether they are later charged or convicted of a crime. The arguments were the latest round in an American Civil Liberties Union challenge to the nine-year-old DNA collection law.

9th Circuit Judge N. Randy Smith grilled a deputy attorney general, insisting there is no reason California's law should permit DNA collection at the point of arrest.

"I don't see what the government loses by putting it off until conviction, or until a judge looks at it ... or at least the prosecutor looks at it, rather than just the police look at it," said Smith, a Republican appointee of former President George W. Bush.

9th Circuit Judge Raymond Fisher also expressed reservations about the government seizing a person's genetic map at the point of arrest. The ACLU case was filed on behalf of several people who were arrested and never charged with a crime, yet were forced to provide DNA samples.

"Now if I'm

The California legal battle over DNA collection is one of many unfolding around the country, with the U.S. Supreme Court poised to take up the issue as soon as this fall in a similar Maryland case.

California is one of more than 20 states with such laws, although the state's voter-approved law is broader than some, including Maryland's, because it allows police to collect the DNA at the time of arrest.

California law enforcement officials argue that the law's usefulness in solving murders, rapes and other crimes through DNA hits outweighs the privacy rights of those who give the DNA samples. Powell told the court on Wednesday that the tool serves "vital public safety and law enforcement interests."

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Thermo Fisher Scientific Opens Molecular Biology Center of Excellence in Lithuania

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WALTHAM, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (TMO), the world leader in serving science, today announced the official opening of its Molecular Biology Center of Excellence in Vilnius, Lithuania. The new facility will provide molecular, protein and cellular biology products to better serve growing demand from life sciences customers throughout Eastern Europe, and create new opportunities globally. Since acquiring Vilnius-based Fermentas International Inc. in 2010, Thermo Fisher has continued to invest in the region to capitalize on its base of world-class educational institutions and scientific research talent.

The Vilnius site will showcase world-class capabilities for developing and manufacturing products used in a range of life sciences applications. For example, it provides innovative technologies for PCR-based (polymerase chain reaction) testing, nucleic acid sample preparation protein purification and antibodies for ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) testing.

Our expanded R&D and manufacturing presence in Vilnius strengthens our ability to serve the growing biotechnology community in Eastern Europe, particularly our research customers who rely on innovations in molecular biology to accelerate developments in diagnosing and treating disease, said Marc N. Casper, president and chief executive officer of Thermo Fisher Scientific. We now have a solid foundation from which we can continue to increase our depth of capabilities for high-growth life sciences markets in the region, from PCR-based products to our broader biosciences portfolio.

The 156,000-square-foot Molecular Biology Center of Excellence is currently home to more than 400 research, laboratory and manufacturing personnel, with room for expansion. In addition to its geographically central location, Lithuania is known for its well-established commitment to innovation, highly skilled life sciences workforce and favorable economic environment.

As part of Thermo Fishers investment in developing the scientific workforce in Lithuania, the company has collaborated with the University of Vilnius to construct a mobile biology laboratory for high school students that provides hands-on experience with molecular biology and DNA experimentation. Thermo Fisher also supports science education in Lithuania through a series of initiatives, including internships and scholarships that provide students with practical experience and financial support.

About Thermo Fisher Scientific

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (TMO) is the world leader in serving science. Our mission is to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer. With revenues of $12 billion, we have approximately 39,000 employees and serve customers within pharmaceutical and biotech companies, hospitals and clinical diagnostic labs, universities, research institutions and government agencies, as well as in environmental and process control industries. We create value for our key stakeholders through three premier brands, Thermo Scientific, Fisher Scientific and Unity Lab Services, which offer a unique combination of innovative technologies, convenient purchasing options and a single solution for laboratory operations management. Our products and services help our customers solve complex analytical challenges, improve patient diagnostics and increase laboratory productivity. Visit http://www.thermofisher.com.

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Thermo Fisher Scientific Opens Molecular Biology Center of Excellence in Lithuania

Biochemistry: New technique to study interaction of metal ions in a liquid

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In the heart of the LOI88 experiment: this is the point where the metal ions (from the left) enter the drop.

In August, the members of an ISOLDE project called LOI88 successfully employed a new technique to study the interaction of metal ions in a liquid. It's the first time that specific ions have been studied in a liquid medium - a technical achievement that opens promising doors for biochemistry.

"More than half of the proteins in the human body contain metal ions such as magnesium, zinc and copper," explains Monika Stachura, a biophysicist at the University of Copenhagen and the LOI88 project leader. "We know that these elements are crucial to a protein's structure and function but their behaviour and interactions are not known in detail." Detecting these ions directly in a body-like environment is problematic as their closed atomic shells make them invisible to most spectroscopic techniques. However, using the beta-Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (-NMR) technique in combination with the COLLAPS beamline the LOI88 team succeeded, for the first time, in recording a signal from metal ions in a body-like liquid environment. This also proves that basic nuclear physics research and techniques can lead to novel applications.

To obtain these excellent results, the team first had to meet a challenge: to find a way to introduce "easily visible" metal ions into a liquid, in order to then "see" their signal. And by "visible", ISOLDE physicists of course mean "radioactive". Their choice: radioactive magnesium 31 ions (31Mg++). The technique: -NMR. The setup: complicated

"First of all, we needed aMg31 ion beam from ISOLDE," says Magdalena Kowalska, a -NMR physicist participating in the project and the ISOLDE physics coordinator. "As we are using the NMR technique, we have to polarize the spins of these ions, which is done using laser light from the ISOLDE-COLLAPS set-up. The polarized ions are then caught by a drop of the liquid." Sounds easy? Not if you consider that the beam has to stay in a vacuum, but the liquid cannot. "When a liquid solution is placed in a vacuum it first boils and then freezes, making it impossible to perform the experiment," explains Alexander Gottberg, an ISOLDE target physicist from CSIC, Madrid, who designed the experimental set-up. "To overcome the problem, we had to introduce a pressure difference between the weak vacuum around the liquid target and the high vacuum in the beamline. The most challenging part of this design was that the differential pumping system, which was used for this purpose, had to be hosted on just a few centimeters."

Enlarge

A falling drop during the measurements.

But what does this anisotropy mean? "From our theoretical models, we can deduce the interactions of the metal ions in the liquid by looking at the NMR radiofrequency that cancels the anisotropy," explains Alexander.

"By proving the feasibility of the technique, we have opened new doors for biochemistry," concludes Monika. "We are now preparing the next steps: injecting macromolecules and later proteins into the liquid to see how metal ions interact with them." The three experts confided that they were "extremely excited". No kidding!

Provided by CERN

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Biochemistry: New technique to study interaction of metal ions in a liquid

Hainan set to rival Singapore, Malaysia and Italy by 2021

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19 September 2012

According to a report, 'Hainan: Travel & Tourism Development Potential 2011 2021' released today by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), by 2021 tourism expenditure in Hainan will be roughly equivalent to that of Singapore today, and the industry will support as many jobs as in Malaysia and Italy today.

In December 2009, China's State Council issued a decree that Hainan in the South China Sea the largest Special Economic Zone in China was to be elevated into a world-class international tourist resort destination by 2020 and the Provincial Government is now well on the way to reaching these goals, according to the WTTC report.

Highlights of the report state:

Such rapid growth though does have some risks. It is important for the Hainan Provincial Government to ensure a carefully planned, island-wide approach, ensuring a spirit of co-operation and co-ordination among the different stakeholders, not to mention the best interests of the local population at all times. This will help ensure that Travel & Tourism does achieve the higher-end goals of sustainable development contributing to natural and cultural heritage protection and preservation, as well as poverty alleviation.

Speaking at the launch of the report in London today, David Scowsill, WTTC President and CEO, said: "Hainan is clearly well on-track to achieve its aim of becoming a world-class international tourism destination by 2020. With rapid growth in employment, visitor expenditure and contribution to GDP, it is not surprising that this tropical island has already attracted the attention of almost every major international hotel brand.

"The Government of Hainan Province clearly recognises Travel & Tourism's potential for economic and social contribution and great steps have been taken over the past three years to develop Hainan as a world-class destination. The opportunity is now to develop a sustainable, diverse product which draws on the Province's unique cultural and natural heritage, burgeoning business tourism sector and high profile new attractions."

The World Travel & Tourism Council is the global authority on the economic and social contribution of Travel & Tourism. It promotes sustainable growth for the industry, working with governments and international institutions to create jobs, to drive exports and to generate prosperity. In 2011 Travel & Tourism accounted for 255 million jobs globally. At US$6.3 trillion (9.1% of GDP) the sector is a key driver for investment and economic growth. For more than 20 years, the World Travel & Tourism Council has been the voice of this industry globally. Members are the Chairs, Presidents and Chief Executives of the world's leading, private sector Travel & Tourism businesses. These Members bring specialist knowledge to guide government policy and decision-making, raising awareness of the importance of the industry as an economic generator of prosperity.

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Battle of the BoBos: UWS Block Association Enraged By Lululemon’s Stinginess

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Lululemon: not about to kiss the communitys ass.

When Lululemon opened on 75th Street and Broadway last month it seemed like a match made in heaven: a place for wealthy Upper West Siders to buy overpriced yoga apparel. After all, if wearing beautifully-crafted clothing while reaching spiritual enlightenment isnt living the upscale Bohemia dream, what is?

But the clothing store has, in just a short time, broken the unbreachable etiquette of the neighborhood by refusing to contribute to the West 75th Street Block Association party, reports DNAinfo.

The store cited its corporate policy against contributing to community groups when block association president DeAnna Rieber asked for a donation of a raffle item or demonstrations. Then things got ugly.

And you thought these kind of things only happened in Brooklyn!

Theyre all smiley on the surface but not when it comes down to participating in the community theyre part of, Ms. Rieber told DNAinfo. It seems very self-indulgent. I think they take care of their own, but that care doesnt go beyond their own self-interest.

Ms. Rieber was apparently unmoved by the stores suggestion that she send residents to the free 9 a.m. class the store holds every Saturday, plus a promise of in-store refreshments throughout the day. Because, you see, the party begins at 1o a.m. and the point is street interaction.

Carolyn Manning, a spokeswoman for Lululemon, toldDNAinfo that the store does not generally offer free products becausewe feel it undervalues both the product and what our guest generally expects.

While its unclear if the well-heeled residents of the Upper West Side will return the snuband forgo flattering, status-symbol spandexLululemon might be well advised to bring a freshly baked pie or a pot of geraniums to Ms. Riebers door.

kvelsey@observer.com

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Battle of the BoBos: UWS Block Association Enraged By Lululemon’s Stinginess