Select Page ::

How six months of pandemic have changed Illinois forever – Crain’s Chicago Business

Posted on July 26, 2020 by Danzig

Since Illinois reported its first case of the novel coronavirus on Jan. 24, COVID-19 has cut through every aspect of lifefrom the most basic social interactions to education, health care and travel.

In a span of six months, 168,000 Illinoisans have tested positive for the virus and more than 7,300 have died. Roughly 1.5 million people have applied for unemployment benefits in Illinois since March, employers' costs have skyrocketed as they implement new safety measures and governments statewide face steep budget gaps and rising calls for relief. More than 4,000 Chicago-area businesses shut down as stay-home restrictions and fear of infection kept customers out of restaurants and stores. Meanwhile, as case rates rise in other states, leaders are bracing for a new surge.

But in the midst of the gravest public health crisis in generations, people are adapting to a new way of life, full of e-learning, mask wearing and socially distant celebrations. Whether the pandemic will lead to permanent work flexibility, bigger investments in public health and unemployment, or meaningful moves toward equity is still unknown.

But how did we get here? Crain's asked Chicago-area decision-makers, business leaders and workers how the first six months of the pandemic in Illinoisfrom the controversial calls to the most pivotal momentshave affected them and what life is going to look like in the future as a result. Here's what they said. (Interviews have been edited for length and clarity.)

Continued here:

How six months of pandemic have changed Illinois forever - Crain's Chicago Business

The COVID-19 Host Genome Structural Variant Consortium Formed by Dr. Ravindra Kolhe at Augusta University Creates a Massive Expansion in the Scope of…

Posted on July 26, 2020 by Danzig

SAN DIEGO, July 24, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bionano Genomics, Inc. (Nasdaq: BNGO) announced today that a recently formed international consortium of clinical and research sites is using its Saphyr genome imaging system to identify genomic variants that influence resistance or sensitivity to the SARS-CoV2 virus, or COVID-19 disease progression and drug response. The consortium is comparing the genome structures of those patients who show no or mild symptoms and those who show severe illness, while controlling for the known risk factors of age and chronic illness such as asthma, heart disease, diabetes, or other immune-compromising disease. The team plans to analyze at least 1,000 patient genomes with Saphyr.

The consortium was founded by Dr. Ravindra Kolhe, the Vice-Chair of Pathology and Section Chief of Molecular and Genetic Pathology at Augusta University and Dr. Alka Chaubey, Scientific Director for the Georgia Esoteric & Molecular Lab at Augusta University. Additionally, it consists of co-investigators from Baylor College of Medicine, Bostons Children's Hospital of Harvard University, Childrens National Medical Center, Columbia University, George Mason University, MD Anderson Cancer Center, the National Cancer Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Rockefeller University, San Francisco State University, Sanford Burnham Prebys, UC San Diego, UC Santa Cruz, and Virginia Commonwealth University, with many more in the process of joining.

A number of companies have committed to supporting this effort as part of a global Tech Against Covid initiative. Rescale, the High-Performance Computing cloud platform fully integrated with Saphyr, and Amazon, a leading provider of on-demand cloud computing, are donating compute time for the Bionano data analysis. Genoox, the platform for annotation and classification of genomic variants, is donating its compute resources to analyze available sequencing data combined with Bionanos structural variation calls for an integrated analysis of small and large genomic variants.

Initial unpublished findings from the first 30 patients that have been analyzed show that Saphyr detects large amounts of structural variation in many putatively relevant genes, demonstrating that point mutations alone are unlikely to explain disease differences between patients. Bionanos Saphyr system is expected to provide the crucial structural variation data needed for a full understanding of genome structure in patients.

Dr. Ravindra Kolhe, founder of the consortium commented: We strongly believe that Bionanos Saphyr platform is uniquely capable of identifying variants that play an important role in regulating COVID-19 in patients, and may be able to explain some of the extreme variation in disease severity and progression that we see in patients. Other studies of the host genome are based on short-read sequencing or SNP-microarrays, and those technologies are unable to detect and account for the large amounts of structural variation thats present in clinically important regions of the genome. We are hopeful that our initial results will translate into discoveries that truly advance our understanding of this devastating disease, and will improve our ability to treat the sickest patients.

Erik Holmlin, PhD, CEO of Bionano Genomics commented: The COVID-19 Host Genome Structural Variation Consortium is an important expansion of Bionanos efforts to help the scientific and medical community in the development of novel, targeted, antiviral therapies or vaccines. We believe that Bionanos genome imaging technology is the only technology capable of detecting the structural variants that could protect against or predispose patients to the viral infection and influence the severity of the disease. We are thrilled that our technology is being used in a global effort to help bring this pandemic to a halt.

About Bionano GenomicsBionano is a genome analysis company providing tools and services based on its Saphyr system to scientists and clinicians conducting genetic research and patient testing. Bionanos Saphyr system is a platform for ultra-sensitive and ultra-specific structural variation detection that enables researchers and clinicians to accelerate the search for new diagnostics and therapeutic targets and to streamline the study of changes in chromosomes, which is known as cytogenetics. The Saphyr system is comprised of an instrument, chip consumables, reagents and a suite of data analysis tools, and genome analysis services to provide access to data generated by the Saphyr system for researchers who prefer not to adopt the Saphyr system in their labs. For more information, visitwww.bionanogenomics.com.

Forward-Looking StatementsThis press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as may, will, expect, plan, anticipate, estimate, intend and similar expressions (as well as other words or expressions referencing future events, conditions or circumstances) convey uncertainty of future events or outcomes and are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include statements regarding our intentions, beliefs, projections, outlook, analyses or current expectations concerning, among other things: planned scope of the consortiums research; preliminary findings regarding COVID-19 through the use of Saphyr; and Saphyrs ability to contribute to research and treatment of COVID-19, including discoveries that can advance an understanding of COVID-19 and improve the ability to treat patients. Each of these forward-looking statements involves risks and uncertainties. Actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected or implied in these forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause such a difference include the risks and uncertainties associated with: the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business and the global economy; general market conditions; changes in the competitive landscape and the introduction of competitive products; changes in our strategic and commercial plans; our ability to obtain sufficient financing to fund our strategic plans and commercialization efforts; the loss of key members of management and our commercial team; and the risks and uncertainties associated withour business and financial condition in general, including the risks and uncertainties described in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including, without limitation, our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019 and in other filings subsequently made by us with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date on which they were made and are based on management's assumptions and estimates as of such date. We do not undertake any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of the receipt of new information, the occurrence of future events or otherwise.

CONTACTSCompany Contact:Erik Holmlin, CEOBionano Genomics, Inc.+1 (858) 888-7610eholmlin@bionanogenomics.com

Investor Relations Contact:Ashley R. RobinsonLifeSci Advisors, LLC+1 (617) 430-7577arr@lifesciadvisors.com

Media Contact:Kirsten ThomasThe Ruth Group+1 (508) 280-6592kthomas@theruthgroup.com

Go here to see the original:

The COVID-19 Host Genome Structural Variant Consortium Formed by Dr. Ravindra Kolhe at Augusta University Creates a Massive Expansion in the Scope of...

UBC scientists sequencing the genomes of Canadians with COVID-19 – UBC Faculty of Medicine

Posted on July 26, 2020 by Danzig

For years, genome sequencing has helped scientists better understand the factors that predispose humans to disease. Now, the tool is being used in the fight against COVID-19.

Through the Canadian COVID Genomics Network (CanCOGeN)a new initiative launched by Genome Canada and backed by $40 million in federal fundingscientists across Canada are collaborating on genomics-based research to find solutions to COVID-19.

Dr. Terry Snutch

Among those involved are UBCs Dr. Terry Snutch and Dr. Steven Jones, both professors in the faculty of medicine. Dr. Snutch, professor in UBCs Michael Smith Laboratories and Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, is leading the $20 million COVID-19 genome sequencing component of the initiative, called CanCOGeN-VirusSeq. Meanwhile, Dr. Jones, who is co-director and head of bioinformatics at Canadas BC Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre (GSC) at BC Cancer, is leading the B.C. branch of the CanCOGeN-HostSeq team to sequence the genomes of 10,000 Canadians who have tested positive for COVID-19an initiative supported by another $20 million investment from the federal government.

In this Q&A, Drs. Snutch and Jones discuss how their findings could lead to better assessment and treatment of the most vulnerable COVID-19 patients.

Dr. Steven Jones

TS: By determining SARS-CoV-2 genome sequences, we can easily identify small mutations, or variants, that arise as the virus is generating billions of copies of itself. By following the trail of these variants as they appear in patients across different regions, we can determine where that variant originated and, combined with that persons travel history, when it was introduced into the region. This is crucial to distinguishing between infections arising from travel versus community spread and provides health authorities with critical information towards recommendations regarding outbreak control and where to direct resources.

SJ: We know that COVID-19 affects people differently. Seniors and those with other diseases tend to have worse symptoms and outcomes compared with young and healthy people. But some young and otherwise relatively healthy people are also seriously affected. By assessing people who have tested positive for COVID-19, and comparing the genomes of those that have responded poorly to infection to those who responded relatively well, we can tease out differences in genes that may indicate why people respond to the virus differently.

A flow cell, the site where DNA sequencing takes place. (Photo credit: GSC)

SJ: Although we did not sequence this particular virus (laboratories in China did shortly after its initial discovery in Wuhan), UBC researchers were the first in the world to sequence a related virus, SARS-COV-1, that was responsible for the SARS epidemic in 2003. We know from that work that understanding the sequence of the virus genome can accelerate the process of finding a vaccine.

TS: The virus genome codes for about two dozen proteins. By chance, some mutations will arise spontaneously in proteins that are currently targeted for vaccine development. It is crucial that we identify and understand how viral mutations appear in vaccine-targeted proteins. If the virus mutates at a critical targeted site, a vaccine that took months or years to develop might only be partially effective by the time it is available to the public.

TS: On the genome data side, I hope that the effort will evolve into the collective Canada-wide ability to track the virus in near real time (e.g., 24-48 hours) thus becoming an invaluable tool towards COVID-19 surveillance as new outbreaks arise and the predicted second wave appears. I also hope that the viral genome data will allow us to predict and track the development of viral resistance to therapeutics treatments.

SJ: The genes associated with outcomes for COVID-19 are part of a complex puzzle. We think there is a genetic connection associated with disease trajectory and outcome, but we wont know the extent of that until we complete this study analyzing the genomes of people affected by the virus. The studies that come from this work will tell us a lot more about the genetics of viral infections. While we dont know the immediate impact the current COVID-19 pandemic, we intend to be better armed with knowledge of the behaviour of this virus, which will help us to be better prepared for future pandemics.

Project collaborators include Dr. Richard Harrigan, professor in the UBC department of medicine, Dr. Marco Marra, head of the UBC department of medical genetics and director of Canadas Michael Smith Genome Science Centre at the BC Cancer Research Institute, and Dr. Naveed Aziz, chief administrative and chief scientific officer at CGEn.

See the article here:

UBC scientists sequencing the genomes of Canadians with COVID-19 - UBC Faculty of Medicine

Trends: To have or not to have a baby childless author Emma Gannon is blazing a trail for choice – Metro Newspaper UK

Posted on July 26, 2020 by Danzig

AT THE age of 51, Jennifer Aniston is a wealthy movie star beloved by fans across the globe with an enviable jet-set lifestyle and a career she relishes. Why then, has she been portrayed for years as someone to be pitied because she hasnt cradled her own baby in her arms?

In a candid moment six years ago, Aniston told Allure magazine, I dont like [the pressure] that people put on me, on women that youve failed yourself as a female because you havent procreated.

Despite her status and celebrity, Aniston is far from alone. Her treatment reflects societys view that having a child is the right and valid thing to do and that, by implication, choosing not to is wrong.

So, kudos to Emma Gannon, best known for the Ctrl, Alt, Delete podcast and business book The Multi-Hyphen Method, for creating a titular character in her first novel, Olive, who doesnt want to be a mother by choice.

In 2018, the Office for National Statistics revealed 19 per cent of women whod reached 45 did not have children; a proportion thats doubled in a generation, so the books themes will no doubt resonate with many women whove been maligned because theyre not mothers.

Kim Cattrall [Samantha in Sex And The City] inspired me. I read an article where she said you must say childfree, not childless. Cattralls another woman who takes up a lot of space in the world but because shes not married or has children, people turn their nose up at her and I just think that needs to change, says Gannon, 31, whos known for a long time she doesnt see herself having children and was keen to find other women who felt the same.

I really dont have that formula in my head that having a child will make me feel complete. I feel complete and I just want women out there who feel the same to know that is valid. Its very different to someone who might be in pain because they havent had the child they always wanted. This is a choice. Maybe we just need to reframe what this strange definition of having it all actually means because I personally think I have it all, says Gannon, who studied English and film at Southampton University before moving to London and getting a job in a big shiny PR agency.

Its something she regards as invaluable given shes created her own brand out of a blog she started at 20 and was named one of Forbes 30 Under 30 in 2018.

Its never really appealed to me to follow the crowd. I didnt follow the one, two, three-step guide to a successful job, I made my own career, so Im OK with staying away from what people think is the norm. Im lucky I dont have any judgement from my parents or friends. Maybe there are women who find it harder to break away and feel judged, and for some people, saying, I dont want children is a bigger thing.

But when Gannon turned to social media to find those who felt the same way she discovered she was far from alone.

I tweeted I was looking for women who were childfree by choice and got about 200 replies in minutes and then my emails blew up and I realised my feelings were very much those of others. There was no sense of shame or victimisation. It wasnt poor us, it was more, were here and unapologetic about our life choices and can someone shine a light on us? I knew this was going to be my first novel.

The book is about four lifelong friends in their early 30s, Olive, Bea, Isla and Cec, who are facing the inevitable issue of motherhood, but in markedly different ways.

Olive thinks her friends are being selfish because all they talk about is their children. They think Olive is being selfish because shes quite rightly obsessed with her own feelings and break-up and then youve got Isla going through IVF and is incredibly self-absorbed, which she has every right to be because shes going through a traumatic time. They all have struggles, all make mistakes, and are all insensitive at times, says Gannon, who adds she isnt Olive, but writing this novel is the closest Ive got to expressing myself in the truest way.

And its through Olives experiences Gannon reflects the reality for many childfree women.

As part of her research, she asked the women about the most irksome remarks theyre subjected to.

It was the same across the board Whos going to look after you when youre old? Arent you scared youre going to be lonely? Wont you regret it? Dont you want to leave behind a legacy? It was scaremongering, says Gannon. Then theres the belief that childfree women are out partying every night without a care in the world.

Im getting married next year, and we stay home a lot. I love nesting. And Im not this person who has all this endless amount of time. I have other commitments. Thats something I really wanted to show in the book, that just because someone is childfree, theyre not gallivanting around town.

Gannon hopes her book will prompt honest conversation, and show theres nothing wrong with taking your time to make up your mind about what you want in your life.

A lot of women fall into having children because their mother and grandmother did and there are a lot of women out there who think, Hmm, I dont know whether I wouldve done this differently, and thats OK as well, she says.

I think were too quick to judge people for their decisions, even our friends sometimes. Were all just figuring out our own way, whatever path we choose.

Researchers predict the worlds population will peak at 9.7 billion around 2064, before falling down to 8.8 billion by the end of the century.

If the fertility rate falls below approximately 2.1, then the size of the population starts to fall.

The average number of children a woman gives birth to is falling, due to more women being in education and work, and more access to contraception. Researchers at the University of Washingtons Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation showed the global fertility rate nearly halved between 1950 and 2017.

The University of Washingtons study predicts that by 2100, the rate will fall below 1.7. With 23 nations including Spain, Portugal, South Korea and Japan expected to see populations halve by 2100.

I realised that so much of the pressure I was feeling was from outside sources and I knew I wasnt ready to take that step into motherhood Kim Cattrall

If I had kids, theyd hate me. Theyd end up on a show talking about me; because something [in my life] would have had to suffer and it wouldve probably been them Oprah Winfrey

You have to really want to have kids and neither of us did Portia de Rossi

As a comic, always working and on the road, I have had to decide between motherhood and living my fullest life and I chose the latter Sarah Silverman

Motherhood has never been an ambition. I dont think like that Rene Zellweger

Having children was not my destiny, I kept thinking it would be, waiting for it to happen, but it never did and I didnt care what people thought Helen Mirren

Olive by Emma Gannon (HarperCollins) is out now

Continue reading here:

Trends: To have or not to have a baby childless author Emma Gannon is blazing a trail for choice - Metro Newspaper UK

COVID19 Impact- Global Repair Tire Sealant Market Recent Industry Developments and Growth Strategies Adopted by Top Key player Slime, Bikeradar,…

Posted on July 26, 2020 by Danzig

Global Repair Tire Sealant Market: Trends Estimates High Demand by 2027

Repair Tire Sealant Market report 2020, discusses various factors driving or restraining the market, which will help the future market to grow with promising CAGR. The Repair Tire Sealant Market research Reports offers an extensive collection of reports on different markets covering crucial details. The report studies the competitive environment of the Repair Tire Sealant Market is based on company profiles and their efforts on increasing product value and production.

Repair Tire Sealant research study involved the extensive usage of both primary and secondary data sources. The research process involved the study of various factors affecting the industry, including the government policy, market environment, competitive landscape, historical data, present trends in the market, technological innovation, upcoming technologies and the technical progress in related industry, and market risks, opportunities, market barriers, and challenges.

The final report will add the analysis of the Impact of Covid-19 in this report Repair Tire Sealant industry.

Adapting to the recent novel COVID-19 pandemic, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global Repair Tire Sealant market is included in the present report. The influence of the novel coronavirus pandemic on the growth of the Repair Tire Sealant market is analyzed and depicted in the report.

Some of the companies competing in the Repair Tire Sealant market are: Slime, Bikeradar, LiquiTube, Berryman, Quadboss, Ride-On, Orange Seal, and Fix-A-Flat

Get a Sample Copy of the [emailprotected] https://www.reportsandmarkets.com/sample-request/global-repair-tire-sealant-market-research-report-2020?utm_source=primefeed&utm_medium=34

The report scrutinizes different business approaches and frameworks that pave the way for success in businesses. The report used Porters five techniques for analyzing the Repair Tire Sealant Market; it also offers the examination of the global market. To make the report more potent and easy to understand, it consists of info graphics and diagrams. Furthermore, it has different policies and development plans which are presented in summary. It analyzes the technical barriers, other issues, and cost-effectiveness affecting the market.

Global Repair Tire Sealant Market Research Report 2020 carries in-depth case studies on the various countries which are involved in the Repair Tire Sealant market. The report is segmented according to usage wherever applicable and the report offers all this information for all major countries and associations. It offers an analysis of the technical barriers, other issues, and cost-effectiveness affecting the market. Important contents analyzed and discussed in the report include market size, operation situation, and current & future development trends of the market, market segments, business development, and consumption tendencies. Moreover, the report includes the list of major companies/competitors and their competition data that helps the user to determine their current position in the market and take corrective measures to maintain or increase their share holds.

What questions does the Repair Tire Sealant market report answer pertaining to the regional reach of the industry

The report claims to split the regional scope of the Repair Tire Sealant market into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America & Middle East and Africa. Which among these regions has been touted to amass the largest market share over the anticipated duration

How do the sales figures look at present How does the sales scenario look for the future

Considering the present scenario, how much revenue will each region attain by the end of the forecast period

How much is the market share that each of these regions has accumulated presently

How much is the growth rate that each topography will depict over the predicted timeline

The scope of the Report:

The report segments the global Repair Tire Sealant market on the basis of application, type, service, technology, and region. Each chapter under this segmentation allows readers to grasp the nitty-gritties of the market. A magnified look at the segment-based analysis is aimed at giving the readers a closer look at the opportunities and threats in the market. It also address political scenarios that are expected to impact the market in both small and big ways.The report on the global Repair Tire Sealant market examines changing regulatory scenario to make accurate projections about potential investments. It also evaluates the risk for new entrants and the intensity of the competitive rivalry.

Reasons for Read this Report

This report provides pin-point analysis for changing competitive dynamics

It provides a forward looking perspective on different factors driving or restraining market growth

It provides a six-year forecast assessed on the basis of how the market is predicted to grow

It helps in understanding the key product segments and their future

It provides pin point analysis of changing competition dynamics and keeps you ahead of competitors

It helps in making informed business decisions by having complete insights of market and by making in-depth analysis of market segments

TABLE OF CONTENT:

Chapter 1: Repair Tire Sealant Market Overview

Chapter 2: Global Economic Impact on Industry

Chapter 3: Repair Tire Sealant Market Competition by Manufacturers

Chapter 4: Global Production, Revenue (Value) by Region

Chapter 5: Global Supply (Production), Consumption, Export, Import by Regions

Chapter 6: Global Production, Revenue (Value), Price Trend by Type

Chapter 7: Global Market Analysis by Application

Chapter 8: Manufacturing Cost Analysis

Chapter 9: Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream Buyers

Chapter 10: Marketing Strategy Analysis, Distributors/Traders

Chapter 11: Repair Tire Sealant Market Effect Factors Analysis

Chapter 12: Global Repair Tire Sealant Market Forecast to 2027

Get Discount @ https://www.reportsandmarkets.com/sample-request/global-repair-tire-sealant-market-research-report-2020?utm_source=primefeed&utm_medium=34

About Us:

Reports And Markets is part of the Algoro Research Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Are you mastering your market? Do you know what the market potential is for your product, who the market players are and what the growth forecast is? We offer standard global, regional or country specific market research studies for almost every market you can imagine.

Sanjay Jain

Manager Partner Relations & International Marketing

http://www.reportsandmarkets.com

Ph: +1-352-353-0818 (US)

View post:

COVID19 Impact- Global Repair Tire Sealant Market Recent Industry Developments and Growth Strategies Adopted by Top Key player Slime, Bikeradar,...

The 1 Reason a Wooden Deck May Be a Better Choice Than Composite – Motley Fool

Posted on July 26, 2020 by Danzig

Adding a deck to your property is a smart move that could pay off in different ways. But not all decking material is created equal, and these days, many homeowners are opting for composite decking over classic wood. The reason? Composite is much easier to maintain. But in spite of that, it could still pay to opt for a wooden deck, especially if you're flipping a house or preparing your own house to sell.

The average cost to add a wooden deck onto a home is $14,360, according to Remodeling Magazine's most recent Cost vs. Value Report. By comparison, the average composite deck costs $19,856. As such, there's a lot of upfront savings to be reaped when you choose wood over composite.

But that's not all. From a return on investment perspective, wood is also a better choice. The average homeowner or house-flipper who installs a wooden deck will recoup $10,355, or 72.1% of that project's initial cost. By contrast, with composite decking, the average amount recouped is $13,257, representing a cost recovery of 66.8%. As such, if your primary goal in installing a deck is to add to your home's resale value and recoup the largest chunk of your investment, then wood may be the smarter choice.

From an investment perspective, it's clear that wood decking over composite is a good bet. But what if you're not flipping or selling a house? What if you're installing a deck for your own enjoyment? In that case, it could actually pay to choose composite.

Wood decking requires a lot of ongoing maintenance. You need to seal and sand it every year and paint or stain it every other year. You'll also need to pressure-wash your deck every year, and sometimes more frequently than that. If you don't maintain your wooden deck properly, it can warp, splinter, and even rot through completely, resulting in a major hazard.

Composite decking, on the other hand, requires very little maintenance. You may need to pressure-wash it every year, but that's really about it. In fact, over time, you're apt to spend a lot less money maintaining a composite deck than a wooden deck. If you're adding a deck and selling your property shortly after the fact, that's not a concern, as you won't be the one stuck with that maintenance. But if you're planning to stay in your home for a long time, then you may be better off spending more on composite and saving yourself the money and hassle over time.

Of course, if you happen to prefer the look of wood, then you might opt for it anyway in spite of that maintenance. Aesthetics should play a role in your decision, too.

Ultimately, any type of deck is a good addition to your home. It can help you better enjoy your outdoor space and add to your property's resale value. While wood decking may offer a better return on investment, if that's not your primary concern, then composite may be a more suitable choice.

See the original post here:

The 1 Reason a Wooden Deck May Be a Better Choice Than Composite - Motley Fool

This saucy, smothered tofu with peppers and onions will have you dreaming of the Mexican coast – Borneo Bulletin Online

Posted on July 26, 2020 by Danzig

Joe Yonan

THE WASHINGTON POST Mexican cuisine, said Eddie Garza, doesnt have to be all about cheese, meat and lard. In his 2016 cookbook, Salud!, he points to pre-Hispanic Mesoamericas big focus on fruits, vegetables, legumes and grains. As his grandmother told him, Before the Spanish came to Mexico, food was provided by the Sun and Earth.

The son of Mexican immigrants who grew up in a border town at the southern tip of Texas, Garza now works for the Humane Society of the United States, where he helps reform food systems in Latinx communities and trains cooks in the joys of plant-based recipes. I first started cooking from Garzas book because his adaptations of traditional dishes are rooted in a deep understanding of Mexican cooking instilled by his abuelita. And the results have never disappointed me.

Theyre not all pre-Hispanic, either. My latest obsession is his Tofu Steak Veracruzana, seared cutlets smothered in a classic Veracruz-style salsa that includes bell peppers, tomato, olives, capers and white wine. Those capers and olives, he writes, represent some of the European ingredients that came to characterise the coastal states cooking, along with tropical fruit and, of course, seafood.

Tofu, famous for its mildness, works well with the salsas tart, salty, slightly spicy punch.

But Garza adds flavour wherever he can, so before you sear it and sauce it, you treat the tofu to a lime-heavy marinade. Theres nothing fishy about that.

TOFU STEAK VERACRUZANA

Active: 30 minutes | Total: one hour

Four servings

Seared tofu cutlets get a classic coastal Mexican treatment usually reserved for seafood. Serve with rice and/or a green salad, if youd like.

INGREDIENTS

One package water-packed extra-firm tofu, drained

Two garlic cloves, finely chopped, divided

1/4 cup homemade or low-sodium store-bought vegetable broth

1/4 cup fresh lime juice

One teaspoon dried Mexican oregano

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste

One tablespoon vegetable oil

One medium red onion, thinly sliced

One medium red bell pepper, stemmed, seeded and thinly sliced

One jalapeo chile pepper, stemmed, seeded and thinly sliced

1/2 cup pitted green olives, chopped

1/4 cup capers, drained, rinsed and chopped

Three large plum tomatoes, seeded and thinly sliced

One tablespoon vegan butter, such as Miyokos or Earth Balance

STEPS

Wrap the tofu in paper towels or a clean dish towel and microwave on high for one minute.

Unwrap, rewrap with fresh towels, and repeat. (This gets rid of excess liquid and is faster than pressing the tofu.)

Unwrap, let cool, and cut into four planks.

Combine the tofu, half the garlic, the stock, lime juice, oregano, salt and pepper in a large bowl or zip-top bag.

Cover or seal and marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes to one hour, turning occasionally. (If desired, you can marinate the tofu in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.) Drain the tofu and reserve the marinade for another use.

In a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, heat the oil until shimmering. Add the drained tofu and sear it without disturbing until well browned, four to six minutes.

Turn each piece over, and sear on the other side until browned, about four minutes. Transfer to a plate.

Add the onion, bell pepper and jalapeo to the skillet and cook, stirring, until they start to soften, about four minutes.

Stir in the olives, capers and the remaining garlic and cook, stirring, until all the vegetables are tender, about three minutes.

Add the tomatoes. Reduce the heat to medium, return the tofu to the skillet, and cook until the sauce reduces slightly and the tofu is heated through, about five minutes.

Stir in the butter, then taste and season with additional salt and pepper, if desired.

To serve, either leave the tofu planks whole or slice them on the bias, and spoon over the sauce and vegetables. Serve hot.

Empire Metals slides as Munni Munni transaction is threatened – Proactive Investors UK

Posted on July 26, 2020 by Danzig

Empire Metals Limited (), the resource exploration and development company, lost a quarter of its value at 2.3p following an announcement by Aussie miner Artemis Resources.

Empire has previously announced its intention to acquire from Artemis a 58.6% interest in Munni Munni, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Artemis that holds a 70% interest in the Munni Munni Palladium Project.

Platina, Artemiss 30% joint venture partner in the Munni Munni Project, has started legal proceedings against Artemis because it claims the proposed sale of a controlling interest in its Munni Munni subsidiary breaches the joint venture agreement.

AstraZeneca PLC () was the best performing blue-chip, up 2.8% at 9,255p, after promising developments on an experimental coronavirus vaccine.

The vaccine, which is being developed by Oxford University in collaboration with AstraZeneca, has proved safe with some signs of efficacy in its first human trial.

More than 1,000 people took part in the trial, with signs that the vaccines boosted both antibodies and cells to fight the virus.

1.00pm: Pensana Rare Earths surges after finding potential partner for its Longonjo Project

(LON:PRE) climbed 12% to 24p after entered into a heads of agreement with China Great Wall Industry Corporation.

The two will cooperate on Pensanas rare earths Longonjo Project in Angola.

China Great Wall is a company with expertise and experience in international engineering that is actively engaged in a range of engineering projects in Africa.

(), up 311% at 150p, was easily the top riser in London after it announced heartening results of a potential coronavirus treatment.

Chief executive Richard Marsden said positive results from a clinical trial of its drug to tackle the severe symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) could signal a major breakthrough in the treatment of hospitalised patients.

People who received SNG001, an inhaled formulation of interferon beta had a 79% lower risk of developing a severe disease compared to those given the placebo, the data revealed. They were also more than twice as likely to recover from the illness than those receiving the substance with no therapeutic value.

UK Mortgages Limited (LON:UKML) advanced 14% to 63p after it emerged it had rebuffed several bid approaches from M&G Investment Management Limited.

The most recent approach was made on July 15 and proposed a cash offer at 67p per share.

M&G said the board of UkMortgages has declined to enter into discussions that might lead to a firm offer being made and has, therefore, made the bid approaches public to allow shareholders to decide for themselves on the merits of the possible offer.

() has been granted vehicular access to its Lahtojoki diamond deposit, sending the shares 35% higher at 2.85p.

The granting of vehicular rights of way by the National Land Survey of Finland will facilitate the company in its technical assessment of the Lahtojoki diamond deposit over which it has been granted a mining concession.

The two-hectare Lahtojoki diamond deposit is located in the Kaavi region of Eastern Finland and lies in the Karelian Craton which extends across north-eastern Russia and northern Finland. The world-class Lomonosov and Grib Pipe diamond deposits have been discovered in the Russian sector of the Craton.

Sealand Capital Galaxy Limited () sank 6.1% lower to 1.55p in early trade on Monday despite announcing a contract win for its ePurse subsidiary.

Epurzse has signed a 24-month strategic partnership with JM International, the Hong Kong company behind the Qiaohuajiao brand, which includes a variety of fish maw products, used in numerous industries, such as health, cosmetics and food production.

ePurse has successfully helped JM International to enter Tmall International, an online marketplace that is part of the .

Haydale Graphene PLC (), however, climbed 6.3% higher to 4.2p after it signed an exclusive distribution agreement with US-based Zirconia Inc.

The agreement is for 30 months and allows Haydale full distribution rights of Zirconias CeramycShield geopolymers in the UK water infrastructure sector. The plan is to address previously unsolvable water infrastructure problems in the UK.

Zirconia's patented Ceramic Surface Treatment technology is a new, advanced material technology, in a new class of inorganic ceramic polymers, that uses Haydale's silicon carbide microfibre as a reinforcement. This technology has now been commercialised by Zirconia in the US where the products are readily available.

() chief executive Richard Marsden said positive results from a clinical trial of its drug to tackle the severe symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) could signal a major breakthrough in the treatment of hospitalised patients. People who received SNG001, an inhaled formulation of interferon beta had a 79% lower risk of developing a severe disease compared to those given the placebo, the data revealed. They were also more than twice as likely to recover from the illness than those receiving the substance with no therapeutic value. A total of 101 people took part in the clinical assessment at nine sites between March 30 and May 27.

s () Cascadura project has been confirmed as a significant discovery in a new independent reserves report. Consultant GLJ Ltd has estimated Cascadura hostsbetween 241.2 and 571.5 billion cubic feet of discovered natural gas in place, with the best estimate pitched at 398.5bn. GLJ gives the project some 73,19mln barrels of oil equivalent (boe) reserves in the 3P (proved, probable, possible) category, with 2P (proved and probable) reserves set at 45.03mln boe and theres 23.62 boe of proved reserves. The reserves are valued by GLJ in a range between US$802.9mln and US$287.7mln, with 2P reserves valued at US$519.2mln.

Shanta Gold Ltd () produced 22,216 ounces of gold from its New Luika mine in Tanzania during the second quarter of 2019, up on the 20,167 ounces produced in the first quarter. Free cash flow amounted to US$15.5mln, up from US$3.9mln in the first quarter. The company said it has also been working up the resource at Singida, which now stands at 243,000 ounces.

() said a decision to focus in-house activities on its retinal disease and exosome-based programmes will provide significant near-term opportunities to deliver value-enhancing data and commercial partnerships as it updated on the progress of its various treatments. In its results for the year ended March 31, 2020, the cell-based therapeutics firm said its hRPC stem cell therapy candidate for the retinal disease had delivered positive and sustained top-line efficacy data in an ongoing US Phase 1/2a clinical trial, with further readouts from an expanded study expected over the next 12 months, leading to intention to file an application in the second half of 2021 to commence a pivotal clinical study. The company also said it has received regulatory approval in the US and UK to expand the Phase 2a study to allow for a subsequent potential single pre-approval clinical study and shorter route to market.

MTI Wireless Edge Ltd () said its Mottech Water Solutions subsidiary has launched a new wireless irrigation solution developed for the French wine market. The system, dubbed Tethys, already has a customer list of 200 French vineyards since it is used by four water associationswho provide irrigation services to the wine producers. The Tethys water management system enables accurate water distribution and irrigation management, resulting in a 30% increase in crop yields while reducing costs by around 30% from efficient use of water, fertiliser, energy and labour, MTI Wireless noted.

Alien Metals Limited () has said finalisation of the geophysical review for the Donovan 2 copper-gold project in Mexico is essentially complete. The company is hoping to finalise the upcoming drill programme at Donovan 2 at the end of next week. The independent review confirms the company's internal work, providing some priority targets that have the potential to delineate hidden copper-gold mineralisation. The company said it will push ahead with drill planning in the third quarter of this year.

() said the first half of 2020 saw all of its divisions make progress towards its goal of being profitable this year. The functional fibres division reported a profit during this period, the ProBiotix division was profitable in three of the six months, and the consumer health division was profitable in one of the six months, OptioBiotix told investors. Total invoiced sales of LPLDL and SlimBiome as an ingredient or final product shot up by 398% to 741,504 from 148,818 in the first half of last year.

() said its first-half trading was in line with forecasts with momentum continuing into the second six months of the year. The software group, which has developed and sells packages used to record R&Ddata, said revenues for the six months ended June 30, 2020, were up 20%, or 12% on a like-for-like basis. Cash generation was strong, leaving Instem with 9.1mln, which when added to the 15.75mln raised earlier this month leaves it with significant capital to accelerate its acquisition strategy. It said it has many potential compelling opportunities for bolt-on deals, with more substantial targets havealso been identified.

() has welcomed legal changes to allow battery projects larger than 50Mw in England and 350Mw in Wales. The new legislation removes energy storage, except pumped hydro, from the Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects regime in England and Wales, said the fund. This will allow larger projects to receive planning permission without government approval.

() said the results of a new study from the University of Southern California (USC), published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, have highlighted the key advantages of its Parsortix liquid biopsy system compared to a standard of care tissue biopsy. The AIM-listed firm said in addition to the known advantages of a non-invasive, repeatable and low-cost procedure, the USC study showed that potential actionable therapeutic targets were found in the Parsortix biopsy that were missed in the tissue biopsy of a single metastatic site.

() has been granted rights of way over the entire Naviskangas private forest road, together with a side road, giving vehicular access to the companys Lahtojoki diamond deposit, the adjacent Lahtojoki South exploration permit area and the surrounding reservation in the Kaavi region of Finland. The granting of vehicular rights of way by the National Land Survey of Finland will facilitate the company in its technical assessment of the Lahtojoki diamond deposit over which it has been granted a mining concession. The two-hectare Lahtojoki diamond deposit is located in the Kaavi region of Eastern Finland and lies in the Karelian Craton which extends across north-eastern Russia and northern Finland.

() has updated on its operations, revealing that drilling of the Duff well at the Greater Stanley projectwill start in the fourth week of July. Additionally, the group said, results of a workover in the Stanley-1 well are expected shortly and preparations are underway for the Falcon-1 well with site works due in late August ahead of drilling in September.The project operator is also planning the proposed Stanley-4 well.

() has booked A$903,215 in second quarter royalty payments from the Koolyanobbing iron ore project in Australia. The increased payment is a result of strong iron ore prices, as well as the continued ramp-up of operations at Koolyanobbing. The iron ore price increased significantly over the second quarter, rising by 19% to US$99.4 per tonne from US$83.3per tonne, with an intra-month peak of US$105.7 per tonne. Whats more, that price trend has continued into the third quarter, with spot prices reaching US$112 per tonne in mid-July.

() has completed its due diligence concerning the Hope copper project in Namibia, and the parties are now proceeding to the administrative process of completing the acquisition. As announced onJune 19, 2020, theacquisition of 100% of Virgo Resources Ltd and its interests in the Hope copper-gold project in Namibiawas subject to certain conditions precedent, including completion of due diligence, regulatory consents for Bezant to proceed, and execution. "The completion of our corporate and technical due diligence on the acquisition of Virgo and its +70% interest in the Hope gold-copper project is an important milestone for Bezant, executive chairman Colin Bird said in a statement.

Bezant Resources also said its annual general meeting (AGM) will be held at 7/8 Kendrick Mews, South Kensington, London SW7 3HG, England, at 10.00am. on Monday, August 10, 2020. In light of current restrictions on public gatherings and to ensure shareholders can comply with the government measures, the company has concluded that shareholders will not be permitted to attend in person and therefore requests that shareholders cast their votes by proxy 48 hours in advance of the AGM.

() said theMinto copper mine in the Yukon, Canada, which it partially owns, produced 6,820 wet metric tonnes of concentrate during the second quarter of 2020. Payments of US$9.8mln were received by Minto from its major customer Sumitomo, itadded. The next shipment to Japan is planned before the end of the third quarter, based on current production levels.

() () (OTCQB:NQMIY) said it has appointed Deutsche Gesellschaft fr Wertpapieranalyse GmbH (DGWA - the German Institute for Asset and Equity Allocation and Valuation), a mining and resource focused European investment banking boutique, as its Investor and Corporate Relations advisor in Europe. With offices in Frankfurt, Berlin and Vienna as well as representatives in Australia and Canada, NQ said DGWA will focus on the growing interest in mining and exploration within the European financial community due to Europe's considerable investment commitments in the clean energy, electric vehicle and energy storage systems industry.

() said its BlackOak Alpha Growth Fundhad seen a significant rise in interest since April though there has been an impact from the coronavirus (COVID-19) disruption. Several major US registered investment advisors, or RIAs, havenow moved to the next step of conducting due diligence on the BlackOak fund, it added. Alpha Growth hasalso started discussions with certain proprietary funds to manage the longevity assets within those funds through separately managed accounts. Longevity assets are life insurance policies sold before the maturity date to a third party for cash.

() (CSE:XOP) said it has raised 1.3mln in a share placing and has also reached a debt exchange agreement with creditors. The placing investors comprise two institutions and two high net worth investors. Some 621mln new shares will be issued, at a price of 0.3p each. In the proposed debt exchange transaction, the company will issue around 411mln new shares as settlement of debts to unsecured creditors, along with accrued payments due to employees and management.

Galantas Gold Corporation () (), the gold producer and explorer with a 100% interest in Northern Ireland's Omagh gold mine said its proposed private placement for 2,833,132 common shares for gross proceeds of C$637,454 (376,240), previously announced on June 26, 2020, and July 03, 2020, has now closed and was fully subscribed. A four-month hold period will apply to the common shares issued under the private placement which will expire on November 18, 2020.

(LON: CTEA), the AIM-quoted provider of digital media and technology, has announced that Guy Meyer, its interim chief executive officer, has taken on the role of permanently with immediate effect. The firm also said it has conditionally granted options to certain directors over 15,631,579 new ordinary shares, with all of the options having an exercise price of 3.8p: Meyer has been conditionally granted options over a maximum of 11,578,947 new ordinary shares (representing a maximum of 5.34% of the current issued capital of the company); John Farthing, its chief financial officer, has been conditionally granted options over a maximum of 4,052,632 new ordinary shares (representing a maximum of 1.87% of the current issued capital of the company).

() (), a global, commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing and commercializing novel therapeutics to treat patients suffering from serious and lie threatening rare diseases has said it will issue its unaudited financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2020, on August 6, 2020, at 12.00pm BST. It added that management will host a webcast for analysts and investors on August 6 at 1.30pm BST.

() has said its annual general meeting will be held at 12.00pm BST on August 5, 2020, at the offices of Novum Securities, 8-10 Grosvenor Gardens, Belgravia, London, SW1W 0DH. Whilst the UK government's current social distancing rules and guidelines remain in place, no shareholders will be permitted to attend the meeting in person and any shareholder who attempts to attend the meeting in person will have to be refused entry.

Quadrise PLC () announced that its chairman, Mike Kirk, and CEO, Jason Miles, will provide a live presentation at a Shares & AJ Bell investor evening webinar on Tuesday, July 21, 2020. It will be the first of four companies presenting, each having a presentation slot followed by Q&A, with the webinar taking place from 6.00pm BST. The group said no new material information will be disclosed at the presentation and a copy of the company's updated presentation being provided will be available on the Quadrise website on the evening of Tuesday, July 21, 2020.

Hardman & Co Research has issued a research note on (), a long-established specialist in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of allergies. It noted that another reassuring trading update stated that the company has hit new records and has the resources in place to fund its pending R&D investment programme required to get its products approved by the regulators. The research report can be viewed at: https://www.hardmanandco.com/research/corporate-research/record-sales-and-a-covid-19-wildcard/

Empire Metals slides as Munni Munni transaction is threatened - Proactive Investors UK

Lovina’s Amish Kitchen: Wedding memories and Mother’s raisin pie – Traverse City Record Eagle

Posted on July 26, 2020 by Danzig

July 15 was our 27th anniversary. Lots of memories throughout the years since Joe and I were married.

This is what my mother wrote in her column in July 1993 about our wedding. Mother wrote:

The weather was ideal for the wedding of daughter Lovina to Joe Eicher. Lots of work at such a time.

The Tuesday before the wedding, which was Thursday, July 15, about two dozen women came to help. They baked 90 pies (oatmeal, cherry, raisin, and rhubarb) and made 14 batches of nothings. Didnt really want that many pies, but that number came upon us before we knew or thought of it. Well anyways no worry to run out of pies.

Wednesday about a dozen girls came to peel potatoes, cut up vegetables for the dressing and make potato salad for which I had cooked a twenty-quart cooker full of potatoes. Also, the tables were set and the last minute cleaning done. Our wash house or shed saw lots of life out there, as all the work was done in there to prepare for the wedding ceremony. Wednesday evening quite a few of our friends came to see the wedding tables, and refreshments were served to the ones that came. It was an enjoyable evening.

Then came the wedding day. We started to fry chicken (300 pounds) at 4:15 a.m. which was served for dinner. Had enough for supper too and also served boneless ham. Our meals consisted of chicken and noodles, gravy, mashed potatoes, dressing, chicken, buttered corn, green beans (which came out of our garden), pork and beans, potato salad, carrot salad, lettuce salad (plenty from the garden), hot peppers, Swiss cheese, fruit salad, tapioca pudding, pies, cakes, nothings, celery sticks, coffee, bread, rhubarb jam, and butter. There were around 18 skillets used to fry the chicken. We cooked 3 twenty-quart cookers of potatoes for dinner for mashed potatoes and 2 twenty-quart cookers for chicken and noodles. In the afternoon we again cooked over 3 twenty-quart cookers of potatoes to be mashed and more chicken and noodles for supper. Also 16 quarts of gravy. There were 28 women to prepare the meals. We could seat 98 people in the house and 70 in the wash house. The tool shed was cleaned out where the wedding services were held and later used to set up a table for the children for the noon and evening meals. We had quite a crowd here for both meals. Well enough of this for now. What a relief to have it over with.

I have so many precious memories of mother and how much she did for her family. Joe was called back in to work this week after being laid off since March 23. It sure is a relief to us to have his income coming in again.

Yesterday, son Benjamin turned 21, so he wanted the family to come home for supper. He ordered out pizza and wings for all of us. What a treat is was! Chips, cheese ball and crackers, and ice cream were also added to the menu. I didnt get time to make a cake and didnt for daughter Lorettas birthday either. With son Josephs birthday coming up next week, it looks like we will have one cake for all the July birthdays. Its almost too much cake for one month if we have three. Benjamin said he wouldnt eat cake anyway, so he didnt care that there wasnt a cake.

Since I am running out of space, I will write about our family gathering at sister Leah and Pauls house next week. I will share the recipe for Mothers raisin pie. God bless!

2 (8-inch) unbaked pie crusts

1 C. raisins

2 T. clear gelatin

pinch of salt

1 C. sugar

1 T. apple cider vinegar

1 C. water

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Use one crust to line an 8-inch pie pan. Cook the raisins with water to cover in a kettle over medium heat until plump and juicy, about 15 to 30 minutes. In a bowl, make a thickening with the gelatin, salt, sugar, vinegar, and water. Pour into the raisin mixture. Cook until the mixture is thick enough to stick to a spoon. Add more sugar if it is not sweet enough for you. Pour into the pie shell. Cover the top with the remaining pie crust and seal and flute the edges. Cut slits in the center for steam to escape. Bake for 30 minutes, until the top is golden brown. Makes 1 (8-inch) pie.

We are making critical coverage of the coronavirus available for free. Please consider subscribing so we can continue to bring you the latest news and information on this developing story.

Lovinas Amish Kitchen is written by Lovina Eicher, Old Order Amish writer, cook, wife, and mother of eight. Readers can write to Eicher at PO Box 1689, South Holland, IL 60473 (please include a self-addressed stamped envelope for a reply); or email LovinasAmishKitchen@MennoMedia.org and your message will be passed on to her to read. She does not personally respond to emails.

Excerpt from:

Lovina's Amish Kitchen: Wedding memories and Mother's raisin pie - Traverse City Record Eagle

Third Parties Not Responsible for Defective Motion to Seal – JD Supra

Posted on July 26, 2020 by Danzig

The US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit held that a district court did not abuse its discretion in denying reconsideration of a previous order denying a litigants defective motion to seal with regard to the litigants own information, but vacated and remanded for further consideration with regard to third-party information. Uniloc 2017 LLC v. Apple, Inc., Case Nos. 19-1922, -1923, -1925, 1926 (Fed. Cir. July 9, 2020) (Mayer, J.).

Uniloc sued Apple for patent infringement in the Northern District of California. Apple moved to dismiss. The briefing on the motion included material that Uniloc had designated as highly confidential. Both parties filed motions to seal. Unilocs motions to seal covered quotations from published opinions and matters of public record, among other things. Unilocs supporting declarations included only boilerplate assertions of harm from disclosure. Non-party Electronic Frontier Foundation asked Uniloc to narrow its redactions, and when Uniloc declined, Electronic Frontier moved to intervene for the purpose of opposing Unilocs sealing motions. The district court denied the motions to seal as overbroad under the local rules, which require such motions to be narrowly tailored.

Uniloc sought an extension of time and ultimately filed a motion for leave to seek reconsideration. In that motion, it agreed to make public more than 90% of the material it had originally sought to seal. It also filed a new motion to seal the remainder. In support, it attached a much more specific declaration supporting sealing the more limited set of materials, as well as several declarations of third-party licensees, who stated that disclosure of their confidential information would be harmful to them. The court denied the motion seeking leave as not meeting the local rules requirements for reconsideration. The court also denied the narrower motion to seal, reasoning that Uniloc should have filed a proper motion to seal in the first instance. Uniloc appealed.

Uniloc argued that the district court had abused its discretion in denying the narrower motion to seal. In considering Unilocs argument, the Federal Circuit distinguished between Unilocs information and third-party information. Applying Ninth Circuit law, the Court held that the district court had not abused its discretion by strictly enforcing its local rules with regard to Unilocs information. Uniloc had violated the local rules in its motion to seal and subsequent motion for reconsideration. Moreover, the Court explained that notwithstanding the submission of a narrowly tailored motion, the burden is always on the moving party to provide compelling reasons for sealing, which Uniloc had failed to do.

Next, the Federal Circuit explained that third-party information calls for an analysis not dependent on the overbreadth rationale because third parties should not be harmed by a litigants failure to follow the local rules. Because the district courts analysis had been based on overbreadth, the Court found that the district court failed to make findings sufficient to allow us to adequately assess whether it properly balanced the publics right of access against the interests of the third parties in shielding their . . . information from public view. It thus remanded to the district court for further consideration of this issue.

Practice Note: In dicta, the Federal Circuit notified the bar that it considered overbroad motions to seal to be a problem in patent litigation, and characterized the district court as having sent a strong message that litigants should submit narrow, well-supported sealing requests in the first instance. Parties should narrowly tailor requests to seal and support such requests with declarations identifying specific harms stemming from the disclosure of the particular information sought to be sealed as well as the parties efforts to keep the information secret.

[View source.]

Visit link:

Third Parties Not Responsible for Defective Motion to Seal - JD Supra

Maintaining a rhythm of devout prayer and reflection at Lough Derg – Derry Now

Posted on July 26, 2020 by Danzig

The prior of Lough Derg, Father La Flynn who is spending this pilgrim season on the island feels at ease with being alone as he continues to maintain a tradition of prayer in St Patricks Purgatory.

Father La rises in the morning at around 5.40am for early morning Mass.

Less than an hour later, he is under an open sky as birds fly overhead undertaking the Stations in his bare feet leaving solitary footprints where before many soles left their imprint on the earth.

Housemartins

A station takes around an hour and ten minutes to do and Father La does so under the swooping wings of the Housemartins amidst a backdrop of blooming nature during these calm but drizzly mornings.

At 8am, the boatmen come onto the island. Each day Thomas Gallagher from Ballyshannon, Reece McGrath from Pettigo and Joe Sheeran from Mountcharles arrive on the island and undertake their own work. They leave at 4pm.

Really, I can hardly remember the last time in my life I was lonely. I am at ease with my own company, he said.

As they leave the island, Father La is well into his day.

I would be hard pushed to find a time when I have been busier.

People are afraid that I am bored but Im not. The team are exceptionally busy, they have been putting so much work into alternative ways to keep in touch with pilgrims. We have set ourselves to be in outreach mode, he said.

In the evening, Father La goes up to the Basilica for night prayer.

My thoughts are to honour the rhythm of the pilgrimage season, he says.

This year, those affiliated with the island are busy in new and alternate ways.

Father La said that many people have been sending petitions to those on the island: We get a lot of people who send us petitions asking for prayer for this or that, Father La said.

In his prayers, he remains faithful to those people and the heartfelt petitions that they have undertaken to write and to send to the island.

Virtuous pilgrimage

On the last weekend in June, Father La invited people to do the full pilgrimage with him from wherever they were.

It was not a virtual pilgrimage, he said, but a virtuous one and people did fast and pray as if they were on the island.

People signed up online to participate.

Father La recalls that the pilgrimage was one where they were not blessed with favourable weather.

The rain was horizontal. It was driving rain and constant wind.

It was relentless during the night. On Saturday we got through reasonably well, he said.

Those who participated were bestowed with a certificate which carries the Lough Derg seal and are signed by the prior.

All of the certificates had to be sent out by the team to those who participated.

A pilgrimage season did not take place on the island in 1828 as result of a dispute with boatmen.

However, many more pilgrims came to the island the following year.

Pilgrimage path

There is now a newly refurbished path on the lake shore of Lough Derg.

The path which was recently relaunched would have been used by pilgrims in the medieval times.

In the 1400s pilgrims from as far away as Spain, Italy and Hungary used part of this trail as they made their way to what medieval Europe knew of as St Patricks Purgatory.

Work was being carried out on the path before the pandemic struck and six new boards were designed and ready to go when the lockdown came into effect.

There are now six display boards which bring to life the story of the Pilgrim Path and those who walk the path can enjoy stopping to read the boards.

Father La said that the full walk is around 12k along the shore road and to Saints Island.

We went to the point where pilgrims used to cross to Saints Monastery where they were given hospitality before being brought to Station Island, he said.

People can also take a shorter loop and everyone can do the walk at their own pace.

Some people like to do it in soft contemplation and reflection whilst other people like to absorb the surroundings.

Many people enjoy taking photographs in the historic and picturesque surroundings.

I led two guided groups on Saturday and Sunday, he said.

Numbers were limited as a result of the Covid-19 church and State guidelines, those who took part enjoyed it.

One-day retreat

Father La said that it remains to be seen whether a one-day retreat will take place on the island this year.

It remains to be seen whether we can open for a one-day retreat at this time, he said.

However, a meeting for the matter to be discussed will take place before the end of the week.

August 15

It is expected that Father La will remain on the island until August 15.

Enjoying his own company, reflection and prayer, Father La seems content during this years traditional pilgrimage time.

He has now become familiar with a goose who comes onto the island to graze in the grass.

The goose can be found behind St Marys, at times, and when startled will take off honking at great speeds, at times.

His presence is one that the reflective priest appreciates.

I am kind of glad for his company.

It is amazing the company that God sends you when you are on your own, he fondly says.

Continue reading here:

Maintaining a rhythm of devout prayer and reflection at Lough Derg - Derry Now

Medical schools need to lower the cost of producing doctors – STAT – STAT

Posted on July 26, 2020 by Danzig

Medicine has become a profession accessible mainly to the rich. Just look at the price tag for medical school.

In the 1960s, the four years of medical education needed to earn an M.D. in the United States could be had for about $40,000 in todays dollars. The price is now $300,000, a 750% increase. About 70% of students take out loans to pay for medical school, graduating with an average of $200,000 in debt. One in five graduates who finance their medical education with loans accumulate more than $300,000 of debt. That average debt is increasingly concentrated in fewer people who individually owe more.

Thats not the right direction to be going in at a time when the U.S. aims to make the medical profession more inclusive. Clinician diversity improves patient care, and access to high-status professional roles in society should be available for all.

Those dollar amounts, however, reflect only the price of medical school. Reducing the price has been the focus of many efforts to put a career in medicine within broader reach. Scholarships supported by philanthropy can lower it, for example, as they have at New York University and Weill Cornell Medicine.

But as we argued recently in the New England Journal of Medicine, price is not the same thing as cost.

Trying to bring down the price of medical education tackles the issue from the wrong end. What we should really target is a reduction in the actual cost of producing a physician: the faculty time, course materials, classrooms, and administrative time. If we can lower the cost of medical education, we can lower its price and redirect the philanthropy behind those scholarships to other needed areas.

The Covid-19 pandemic is pointing to ways to do that.

Early in the pandemic, medical instruction that used to happen in physical classrooms went online. In March, medical students at the nearly 200 U.S. medical schools began learning subjects like reproductive endocrinology through Zoom or another virtual platform. Couldnt they all use the same lectures?

Undergraduate teaching across the U.S. also went online in March, but the issues arent identical. Yes, the same lectures might run across the nation, reducing costs. But the point of college is only partly about learning Shakespeare and chemistry, which can largely be delivered online, and mostly about growing up and developing independence, which requires more presence. In the first few years of medical school, the ratio is reversed: Its mostly about learning reproductive endocrinology, then later developing into an independent doctor.

In fact, many medical schools have long put online their preclinical courses, the period before students spend much time with patients. Few students even show up for the in-person sessions, viewing them on their own time and often at twice the speed, compressing an hour of lecture into 30 minutes of instruction. Why recreate that instruction 200 times each year at 200 medical schools?

Sharing lectures is just one way to lower the cost of producing doctors. Another is to shorten medical school from four years to three, as schools like NYU, Wisconsin, Duke, and others already strive toward, saving the cost of that instruction (paid by future doctors) by $160,000 to $230,000. That reflects one less year of tuition, an additional year of earning, and adding a years medical practice for the community.

The high prices of medical education and the high costs of medical education are both important. High prices have been linked to doctors avoiding lower-paying specialties, like primary care, where they may be needed most. High prices also partly explain why 73% to 79% of students entering medical school between 1988 and 2017 came from households in the top two income quintiles.

If it were less costly to produce doctors, it would be less pricey to become one. Philanthropic scholarships remain essential for a diverse workforce because its unlikely that the cost of medical education will fall low enough to eliminate its effectively exclusionary pricing. But by insulating students from the price of medical education, scholarships inadvertently insulate schools from the cost of medical education and risk perpetuating old ways.

The way we produce doctors is expensive, and we all benefit if we can do it at lower cost. The costly production of doctors is part of the reason what doctors do is so expensive. It is part of the reason a more diverse population doesnt enter medicine. It is part of the reason that philanthropy going to making medical school less pricey isnt available for making cancer care better.

And so, while we are achieving some success in lowering the price of medical education, we need to put more effort toward reducing its cost.

David A. Asch is an internist, executive director of the Center for Health Care Innovation, and professor at the Perelman School of Medicine and the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Justin Grischkan is an internal medicine resident physician at Massachusetts General Hospital and a clinical fellow in medicine at Harvard Medical School. Sean Nicholson is a professor and director of the Sloan Program in Health Administration at Cornell University.

All World football: For Owasso’s Emaud Triplett, Army and medical school are in his future, but first another 6AI title run – Tulsa World

Posted on July 26, 2020 by Danzig

OWASSO One of Emaud Tripletts heroes has always been his mother, Shelley.

The matriarch of the Triplett family served in the Navy for a decade and currently works as a nurse practitioner while pursuing her doctorate. So when the Owasso senior linebacker found an opportunity to follow in his moms footsteps in the medical field and still continue his football career, Triplett jumped at the chance.

In early June, the Rams standout announced on his Twitter page he had committed to play football at Army.

Before I had dreams of playing football, I wanted to go to medical school and be a pediatrician. I always wanted to be like my mom, Triplett said. So when the Army said they would pay for (my medical school), that just blew my mom away.

Before he heads to West Point, Triplett and fellow senior linebacker Brenden Dye hope to put a bow on their high school careers, which already include a pair of state championships. Both Triplett and Dye are candidates at linebacker in the 2020 All World Preseason Football Contest presented by Bill Knight Automotive.

The contest allows readers to vote for their favorite players at each of eight positions. Candidates were chosen on the basis of past performance, projected 2020 accomplishments and college potential. Players from all grades are eligible and may only be selected at one position.

Readers may vote once per day per device. Voting will run through 3 p.m., Aug. 13, and the winners will be announced in the Tulsa World and at OKPrepsExtra.com in late August. Go to OKPrepsExtra.com for weekly updates on who is in the lead.

Triplett led all of Class 6AI with 140 total tackles a year ago. The 5-foot-11, 210-pounder tallied eight sacks and eight tackles for loss and was a World player of the year finalist following his junior season. He is No. 1 in the Worlds preseason linebacker rankings and Dye is No. 4.

Triplett will be a three-year starter at linebacker. He also has been deployed at running back, including in last years state championship game against Jenks. Triplett scored a touchdown on a 2-yard run that helped the Rams to a 14-6 win and capped off the programs first unbeaten season.

Owasso head coach Bill Blankenship attributed some of Tripletts success at linebacker to his snaps with the offense.

Emaud benefits from having running back eyes and the experience of being a running back, Blankenship said. He sees holes, hits holes. Thats what linebackers do.

Dye will also be a three-year starter. The 6-2, 225-pounder collected 112 tackles, including seven sacks, a season ago.

In last years state semifinal win over Broken Arrow, Dye tallied 11 tackles, two sacks and a fumble recovery.

Blankenship touted his linebacker tandem as good as anybody anywhere and said both will shoulder significant loads this season after graduation losses in the secondary and a shakeup in the coaching staff.

They are, without a doubt, the heart of the defense, Blankenship said. Everything defensively starts with those two inside linebackers. Theyve got to be run stoppers and theyve got to help with the pass. They are the tone-setters for toughness. They are everything.

Vote Now: Here are the 2020 All World linebackers. You pick the best.

Owasso 5-11210Sr.

Committed to Army. The only returning All World football player of the year finalist. In 2019, led the Rams' defense with 140 tackles, including 48 solos, with eight sacks. Produced 18 tackles each against Mustang and Moore. In the regular season against Broken Arrow, had 15 tackles and a 65-yard interception return. Filled in at running back after injuries depleted that position in the playoffs and had 23 carries for 110 yards, including the Rams' second and last TD in a 14-6 win over Jenks in the 6AI state final.

Click here to vote for Emaud

Broken Arrow 6-2225Sr.

Had 95 tackles and two sacks to help the Tigers reach the 6AI semifinals last season. Recorded 16 tackles with nine solos and a key fumble recovery in a 17-15 win over Jenks. Was involved in four first-half sacks in a 35-13 win over Norman. Had five rushing TDs as a freshman for Victory Christian in 2017 before moving to Broken Arrow and helping the Tigers win a state title in a reserve role in 2018.

Click here to vote for Darryan

Metro Christian 6-1170Sr.

Shared District 2A-4 defensive player of the year honors with teammate Price Allman last year. Had 135 tackles with seven sacks and four fumble recoveries to help the Patriots post a 15-0 record and win the 2A state title. Caught a 22-yard TD pass in a playoff game against Kiefer. Had 12 tackles plus two touches for 29 yards in a season-opening win over Broken Bow. Had 87 tackles with two sacks as a sophomore in 2018.

Click here to vote for Cade

Owasso 6-2225Sr.

Had 112 tackles with seven sacks for the Rams last season. Recorded 18 tackles in a 24-10 win over Mustang. Produced 11 tackles with four for losses in a 6AI semifinal victory over Broken Arrow. Scored on a blocked punt return in the opener against Bentonville West. Had a sack or an interception in the last five games. In 2018, had 54 tackles in eight games.

Click here to vote for Brenden

Jenks 6-0190Sr.

Had 85 tackles in his first season with the Trojans helping them reach the 6AI state final. Was involved in 20 tackles against Edmond Santa Fe. The only returnee from last summer's linebacker rankings. Moved from Lincoln Christian, where he had 253 tackles over the 2017 and '18 seasons. Had 17 tackles against a 2018 3A playoff opener. In 2017, had a career-high 21 tackles against Seminole.

Click here to vote for Tyson

Stillwater 6-2220Jr.

Produced 126 tackles and three takeaways last season. Had 39 tackles in the playoffs, including nine solos in the 6AII final against Bixby. Recorded season-highs of 14 tackles against Norman and in the semifinals against Choctaw. Scored on a fumble return against Southmoore.

Click here to vote for Gabe

Bartlesville 6-2235Sr.

In 2019, had 126 tackles with seven sacks, three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. Was named a team captain as a junior. Has a 4.59 time in the 40. Had 87 tackles in 2018, including 16 against 6AII semifinalist Booker T. Washington and 15 against 5A semifinalist Collinsville. Also used a tight end/fullback.

Click here to vote for Braeden

Bixby 5-9200Sr.

In 2019, had 76 tackles, including 8 1/2 for losses, with three sacks and five quarterback hurries to help the undefeated Spartans win the 6AII state title. Had a season-high 11 tackles and a sack in a semifinal win over Del City. Was involved in eight tackles and had a fumble recovery against 6AI runner-up Jenks. Produced 17 tackles in a reserve role for the Spartans' 2018 state champions.

Click here to vote for Nick

Wagoner 5-8200Sr.

Led the Bulldogs defense with 143 tackles and 16 sacks. Also recovered three fumbles and had an interception. Recorded 16 tackles with a school-record six sacks in a 21-14 win at Bethany in the 4A quarterfinals. Wagoner coach Dale Condict said Gause was "dominant" and "had a breakthrough year."

Click here to vote for Trey

Lincoln Christian 5-9160Sr.

Recorded 116 tackles with three sacks to help the undefeated Bulldogs win the 3A state title last year. Had a season-high 13 tackles, including eight solos, and scored on an interception return against Stigler. Had 10 tackles with two for losses against Inola in a playoff opener. Produced 11 tackles each in the semifinals and final. Had 52 tackles in 2018.

Click here to vote for Daymon

Click here to vote on the best running back

All World defensive backs: Recruiters didn't miss B.T. Washington standout Keuan Parker

The 2020 All-World Preseason Football Contest presented by Bill Knight Automotive is underway, giving readers the chance throughout the summer

The rest is here:

All World football: For Owasso's Emaud Triplett, Army and medical school are in his future, but first another 6AI title run - Tulsa World

Does the US Have a Physician Shortage or a Physician Training Shortage? – The Doctor Weighs In

Posted on July 26, 2020 by Danzig

In 2019, the Association of American Medical Colleges published data stating the United States will see a physician shortage of nearly 122,000 physicians. This reflects the need for physicians in both primary and specialty care.

The US physician shortage is a hot topic of conversation not only among healthcare workers but also in the general population. It arises whenever there are discussions of the increasing need for healthcare services in this country. Both the rise of chronic disease as well as the increasing demands for preventive services are drivers of this need. In addition, given the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare workers, it is likely that the problem will only get worse.

In reality, the term physician shortage is a misnomer. It is a veil used to hide the cracks in the system. We believe that there is no physician shortage. Rather, there is a training of physician shortage. Let us explain.

To practice medicine in the United States, one must first get accepted to medical school which is no easy feat. And then complete four (or more) years of medical school two preclinical and two clinical. Afterward, medical school graduates must try to land a residency spot in their chosen specialty.

Graphic created by the authors from information in reference.

In 1997, when there was a predicted surplus of physicians, Congress put a cap on residency spots by introducing the Balanced Budget Act of 1997. Twenty years later, that predicted surplus morphed into an evident shortage of trained physicians.

To apply for residency, candidates pay thousands of dollars for licensing exams (USMLEs), application fees, and registration to participate in the annual residency match. This is the only way to obtain a residency position in the U.S.

Graphic created by the authors from data in reference .

In 2019, the average number of applications sent per US medical graduate was 65. For International Medical Graduates (IMGs), it was 137. Even after all of this, candidates can still end up without a residency position.

Graphic, modified by authors, from NRMP Main Residency Match 2020 Results, page iv, reference .

While the number of residency positions has increased, it does not yet address the thousands of applicants that go unmatched each year. For example:

After the main Match, candidates have one last shot at a Residency position. It is called the Supplemental Offers and Acceptance Program or SOAP. In the 2020 Match, there were11,816applicants scrambling for1,897spots available in SOAP.

So what happens to the ~10,000 applicants that dont get a spot at the end of the cycle? From March September, unmatched graduates have to do the following, at a minimum:

This leads to qualified doctors working minimum wage jobs and paying thousands of dollars to third party companies for clinical experience to fill the gaps. Many are also actively searching for open residency spots.

Post Match and SOAP, there are few ways to search for open Residency positions. All of them require payment of a fee. In May 2020, a new Family Medicine Residency program opened up. Within 48hrs received 2,000 applications for 8 spots.

For the thousands of medical graduates who remain unmatched, there are simply no other opportunities to obtain a license to practice. That means the talents and skills of these doctors are not being used.

Related content: Osmosis: Revolutionizing Medical Education One Video at a Time

A number of things have been done to decrease the shortage of physicians. This includes establishing a goal of increasing medical school enrollment by 30%. This target was reached in 2018.

This was the same year that the Association of American Medical College surveyed the 151 accredited medical schools in the United States. At that time, they found that 44% of deans voiced concerns about their students ability to find residencies[8].

While the number of medical school graduates have increased exponentially, there has only been an increase of 1% per year in residency spots[8]. And, there has been little to no movement in removing the cause of the problem.

The Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act of 2019 (S.348 / H.R.1763) was introduced in March of 2019 to remove the cap and increase residency spots. 186 members of Congress and 17 Senators have co-sponsored the bill. The problem is 218 are needed to pass it in Congress, and 51 in the Senate..

Physician Assistants and Nurse Practitioners have also gained full authority to practice. However, medical graduates who have completed thousands of clinical hours and completed licensing exams are unable to practice.

In Missouri, Utah, Arkansas, and Florida the Assistant Physician License has been adopted to allow these medical graduates to practice in underserved areas under the supervision of a licensed physician. Providing this license across all 50 states could help reduce the physician shortage and allow unmatched medical graduates a pathway to licensed practice outside of residency.

Every year, thousands of medical graduates fail to obtain a residency position. As a result, they are forced to work in jobs that dont take advantage of their knowledge and skills. Furthermore, they must wait a year before applying again. This is unacceptable, particularly in this time of crisis, when physicians skills are so badly needed.

More here:

Does the US Have a Physician Shortage or a Physician Training Shortage? - The Doctor Weighs In

First practicing medical doctor to play in the NFL opts out of the 2020 season – WISHTV.com

Posted on July 26, 2020 by Danzig

(CNN) Super Bowl champion Laurent Duvernay-Tardif, the first practicing medical doctor to play in the NFL, has decided to opt out of playing in the upcoming season due to the coronavirus pandemic.

This is one of the most difficult decisions I have had to make in my life but I must follow my convictions and do what I believe is right for me personally, the 29-year-old Kansas City Chiefs offensive lineman said in a Twitter post. That is why I have decided to take the Opt Out Option negotiated by the League and the NFLPA and officially opt out of the 2020 NFL season.

Being at the frontline during this offseason has given me a different perspective on this pandemic and the stress it puts on individuals and our healthcare system. I cannot allow myself to potentially transmit the virus in our communities simply to play the sport that I love. If I am to take risks, I will do it caring for patients.

Duvernay-Tardif is the first NFL player to opt out of the 2020 season because of the pandemic. According toESPN, Duvernay-Tardif was set to earn $2.75 million this season. By opting out, he will get $150,000 instead as a result of a Friday agreement struck between the union and the league.

Duvernay-Tardif, who earned his medical degree from McGill University in Canada in 2018, plays right guard on the Chiefs offensive line. He played in the biggest game of his life in February, helping the Chiefs win their firstSuper Bowlin 50 years.

In an April story he did forSports Illustrated, Duvernay-Tardif wrote about working at a long-term care facility near Montreal.

Duvernay-Tardif was in his third year of medical school when the Chiefs drafted him in the sixth round in 2014. He continued his studies and returned to Montreal in the offseason to fulfill his clinical rotations in pediatrics, obstetrics, geriatrics and his preferred specialization, emergency medicine. On May 29, 2018, he received his medical doctorate after eight years.

With updated information from the Indiana Department of Health on July 24, this timeline reflects updated tallies of deaths and positive tests prior to that date.

Read this article:

First practicing medical doctor to play in the NFL opts out of the 2020 season - WISHTV.com

Anthony Fauci, MD: Science as a voice of reason – AAMC

Posted on July 26, 2020 by Danzig

Editors note: This essay was a winner of the 2020 Lasker Foundation Essay Contest and has been lightly edited from the original. The opinions expressed by the author donot necessarily reflect the opinions of the AAMC or its members.

One year into medical school, my current skill set includes an assortment of physiology and microbiology factoids and the ability to perform a well-patient exam, skills that unfortunately leave me just as helpless as the average American who waits on edge as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolds. Early in the pandemic, the dozens of news cameras positioned outside my medical school, reporters lining up to speak about the first case of community spread in the country, should have alerted me that we were entering into uncharted territory. As industries have slowed to a crawl, many Americans, including myself, have turned to leaders for guidance in particular, 2007 Lasker Laureate Dr. Anthony Fauci.

As the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Dr. Fauci has appeared at nearly all the White House briefings next to President Trump. His measured Brooklyn rasp and tell-it-to-me-straight demeanor have garnered the admiration of the country and even inspired fan merchandise (Fauci t-shirts in Gucci-style fonts), as well as generated vitriol from online conspiracy theorists (see: #FauciFraud).

Through the past 40 years, Dr. Fauci has led efforts against epidemics as both a scientist and public figure. In todays pandemic, his devotion to tempering too-rosy predictions and fearlessness in calling out testing efforts as failing have earned him the rarest resource of public trust. When Dr. Fauci missed one White House briefing, tweets began flying, asking, Where is Dr. Fauci?

Dr. Fauci represents a role of physicians and scientists that has diminished in recent years: a voice of reason, a representative of truth and facts. Historically, physicians were community keystones they provided your care from birth to death, and that of your family and friends, too. In this way, physicians and researchers have always been public figures. With the modernization and subsequent specialization of physicians and scientists, science began to be practiced in isolated and sterile environments, such as research done in the ivory tower or 15-minute appointments with a doctor your insurance assigned to you a depersonalization and erosion of trust. Dr. Faucis appearance in media, particularly web content, brings us closer to the days of knowing your physician or knowing the faces of scientists and cultivating a relationship of respect. Moreover, Dr. Fauci highlights another crucial role of science, not just in times of pandemic: the essential need for scientists to speak with politicians, even when you have to say things one, two, three, four times.

The argument remains that the role of a scientist is to be quiet and do the work. Dr. Fauci has certainly done the work as a leading HIV/AIDS researcher with more than 1,100 publications. But he has also leveraged his expertise into a role as a public servant, advising several presidents and designing the international health program PEPFAR for HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention, among other government programs. His advocacy helped funnel funds into implementing the interventions and research he helped discover and fostering real world change.

In his 2007 Lasker Awards Ceremony acceptance remarks, Dr. Fauci said, I realized early on that when you deal in the heady company of presidents, cabinet secretaries and members of Congress and are asked for advice, you must be prepared to disappoint people with the truth and risk never getting asked back into the inner circle. I accepted that concept. Science is truth, and as a scientist I told the truth.

Prior to medical school, I considered careers in print journalism and clinical research, seemingly disparate fields, but to me, both centering around truth-seeking. Dr. Fauci reminds me that truth-seeking is not absent from medicine either. It is central to it. In Albert Camus The Plague, the protagonist Dr. Rieux asks Tarrou, a community member, why he is so willing to risk his life and volunteer to fight the plague. Tarrou answers: My code of morals comprehension. Only by telling the truth as we know it, rooted in science and research, can we give the public and policymakers the knowledge they need to make educated decisions about their health and the health of others and, hopefully, inspire them to make the right choices.

More than ever, we need science communication education in our medical school and graduate school curriculums. It is not enough to just do the work. We need to know how to advocate for truth, how to navigate the machinations of politics, and how to build relationships with policymakers, stakeholders, and the public. In the words of Dr. Fauci, we all have to keep pushing for policy changes that focus on preventing pandemics and chronic disease, and for research advances to benefit patients in ways that are truly accessible. More than ever, our country and our patients depend on it.

Samantha Wong is a second-year medical student at the University of California, Davis, School of Medicine.

Continued here:

Anthony Fauci, MD: Science as a voice of reason - AAMC

COVID-19 Impact & Recovery Analysis- Global Medical Education Market 2020-2024 | Gamification in Medical Education to Boost Growth | Technavio -…

Posted on July 26, 2020 by Danzig

LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Technavio has been monitoring the global medical education market size and it is poised to grow by USD 129.66 billion during 2020-2024, progressing at a CAGR of 17% during the forecast period. The report offers an up-to-date analysis regarding the current market scenario, latest trends and drivers, and the overall market environment.

Technavio suggests three forecast scenarios (optimistic, probable, and pessimistic) considering the impact of COVID-19. Please Request Latest Free Sample Report on COVID-19 Impact

Frequently Asked Questions-

The market is fragmented, and the degree of fragmentation will accelerate during the forecast period. Harvard Medical School, Johns Hopkins University, New York University, Stanford University, University of California, University of Cambridge, University of New England, University of Oxford, University of Washington, and Yale University are some of the major market participants. To make the most of the opportunities, market vendors should focus more on the growth prospects in the fast-growing segments, while maintaining their positions in the slow-growing segments.

Gamification in medical education has been instrumental in driving the growth of the market.

Medical Education Market 2020-2024: Segmentation

Medical Education Market is segmented as below:

To learn more about the global trends impacting the future of market research, download a free sample: https://www.technavio.com/talk-to-us?report=IRTNTR40007

Medical Education Market 2020-2024: Scope

Technavio presents a detailed picture of the market by the way of study, synthesis, and summation of data from multiple sources. Our medical education market report covers the following areas:

This study identifies the growth in the number of online medical education programs as one of the prime reasons driving the medical education market growth during the next few years.

Medical Education Market 2020-2024: Vendor Analysis

We provide a detailed analysis of around 25 vendors operating in the medical education market, including some of the vendors such as Harvard Medical School, Johns Hopkins University, New York University, Stanford University, University of California, University of Cambridge, University of New England, University of Oxford, University of Washington, and Yale University Backed with competitive intelligence and benchmarking, our research reports on the medical education market are designed to provide entry support, customer profile and M&As as well as go-to-market strategy support.

Technavio's SUBSCRIPTION platform

Medical Education Market 2020-2024: Key Highlights

Table of Contents:

PART 01: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

PART 02: SCOPE OF THE REPORT

PART 03: MARKET LANDSCAPE

PART 04: MARKET SIZING

PART 05: FIVE FORCES ANALYSIS

PART 06: MARKET SEGMENTATION BY LEARNING METHOD

PART 07: MARKET SEGMENTATION BY COURSES

PART 08: CUSTOMER LANDSCAPE

PART 09: GEOGRAPHIC LANDSCAPE

PART 10: DECISION FRAMEWORK

PART 11: DRIVERS AND CHALLENGES

PART 12: MARKET TRENDS

PART 13: VENDOR LANDSCAPE

PART 14: VENDOR ANALYSIS

PART 15: APPENDIX

PART 16: EXPLORE TECHNAVIO

About Us

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavios report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavios comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Read the original here:

COVID-19 Impact & Recovery Analysis- Global Medical Education Market 2020-2024 | Gamification in Medical Education to Boost Growth | Technavio -...

Americans Are Spending Billions on Unnecessary Dental Treatments – The Atlantic

Posted on July 26, 2020 by Danzig

According to some orthodontists, this lack of objective evidence of health benefits is cause for concern. After all, treatment places a financial burden on families and the health-care system, and it also poses some health risks. Even unlikely complicationsfrom adverse reactions associated with surgical interventions to issues from the long-term effects of X-ray exposureare bound to impact a small but measurable number of patients if enough people are treated, Hujoel said. And millions of kids receive orthodontic treatment each year.

But others see things differently. The cost-benefit [ratio] there is so low, said Greco. If you can readily correct a problem as a patient develops, youd want to do that to give that patient every opportunity to develop normallyemotionally and mentally, physically.

The problem is not that individual orthodontists are intentionally misleading patients. The problem, Ackerman said, is cultural. Evidence just isnt valued as highly in orthodontics as tradition and clinical experience. Although the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation requires an evidence-based curriculum, It is largely paid lip service, Ackerman wrote in an email. (The ADA did not respond to requests for comment.) Instead, his residency experience emphasized the classical practice of orthodontics. At one point during residency, Ackerman challenged his chair on a recommendation given to a patient. He still remembers the response he received: AckermanDont confuse me with the facts, my mind is made up.

As a lecturer, Spassov was interested in incorporating a more critical discussion of evidence into his curriculum. However, he said that his colleagues dissuaded him. He says he was warned that incorporating evidence-based principles would confuse students. According to Spassov, it is easier and less confusing to just teach the same content each year. But that shouldnt justify avoiding the topic entirely, he said. Diverging evidence is at the core of science and research, he wrote in an email to Undark.

Orthodontists need to rethink how they communicate treatment needs with their patients, said Richmond. Health professionals have to be careful what they say sometimes, he said. When they say, You may have an issue, that gets stuck in your mind.

Ackerman agrees that patients deserve nuanced and accurate information. In 2007 and again in 2018, he challenged the American Association of Orthodontists about specific claims on its website: namely, that malocclusion can cause loss of teeth, speech impediment, and poor nutrition. When asked for evidence to support these assertions, the association dismissed the complaint with no real investigation, Ackerman said.

Around a decade after his first complaint, it finally modified the websiteand only slightly. Still, Vig said, its a step in the right direction.

Americans Are Spending Billions on Unnecessary Dental Treatments - The Atlantic

Metabolically Healthy, but Obese Individuals and Associations with Ech | DMSO – Dove Medical Press

Posted on July 26, 2020 by Danzig

Ljupcho Efremov,1 Maria Elena Lacruz,2 Daniel Tiller,3 Daniel Medenwald,1 Karin Halina Greiser,4 Alexander Kluttig,1 Andreas Wienke,1 Sebastian Nuding,5 Rafael Mikolajczyk1

1Institute of Medical Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Informatics (IMEBI), Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences, Medical School of the Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany; 2Clinical Cancer Register, Saxony-Anhalt, Halle (Saale), Germany; 3IT Department, Data Integration Center, University Hospital Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany; 4Division of Cancer Epidemiology, German Cancer Research Centre, Heidelberg, Germany; 5Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany

Correspondence: Rafael MikolajczykInstitute of Medical Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Informatics (IMEBI), Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences, Medical School of the Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Magdeburger Str. 8, Halle (Saale) 06112, GermanyEmail rafael.mikolajczyk@uk-halle.de

Introduction: The research on heterogeneity among obese individuals has identified the metabolically healthy, but obese (MHO) phenotype as a distinct group that does not experience the typical cardiovascular-related diseases (CVD). It is unclear if this group differs with regard to preconditions for CVDs. Our aim was to assess differences in echocardiographic parameters and inflammatory biomarkers between MHO and metabolically healthy, normal weight individuals (MHNW).Methods: The analyses used data from 1412 elderly participants from a German population-based cohort study (CARLA), which collected detailed information on demographic, biochemical, and echocardiographic variables. Participants were subdivided into four groups (MHNW, MHO, MUNW (metabolically unhealthy, normal weight) and MUO (metabolically unhealthy, obese)) based on BMI 30 kg/m2 (obese or normal weight) and presence of components of the metabolic syndrome. The clinical characteristics of the 4 groups were compared with ANOVA or Chi-Square test, in addition to two linear regression models for 16 echocardiographic parameters. The difference in inflammatory biomarkers (hsCRP, IL-6 and sTNF-RI) between the groups was examined with a multinomial logistic regression model.Results: The MHO individuals were on average 64.2 8.4 years old, with a higher proportion of women (71.6%), low percentage of smokers, larger waist circumference (109.3 10.5 cm vs 89.1 10.8 cm, p< 0.0001) and higher odds ratios for hsCRP, IL-6 and sTNF-RI compared to MHNW individuals. Linear regression models revealed greater left atrial (LA) diameter (2.73 (95% CI: 1.35 4.11) mm), LA volume (7.86 (95% CI: 2.88 12.83) mL), and left ventricular mass index (LVMI) (11.82 (95% CI: 4.43 19.22) g/m1.7) in the MHO group compared to the MHNW group.Conclusion: The MHO phenotype is associated with echocardiographic markers of cardiac remodeling (LA diameter, volume and LVMI) and higher odds ratios for inflammatory biomarkers.

Keywords: obesity phenotypes, visceral adipose tissue, cardiac remodeling, inflammatory biomarkers

This work is published and licensed by Dove Medical Press Limited. The full terms of this license are available at https://www.dovepress.com/terms.php and incorporate the Creative Commons Attribution - Non Commercial (unported, v3.0) License.By accessing the work you hereby accept the Terms. Non-commercial uses of the work are permitted without any further permission from Dove Medical Press Limited, provided the work is properly attributed. For permission for commercial use of this work, please see paragraphs 4.2 and 5 of our Terms.

Read the rest here:

Metabolically Healthy, but Obese Individuals and Associations with Ech | DMSO - Dove Medical Press

Dr. Joseph R. Connelly, 105, treated three presidents and astronauts – Buffalo News

Posted on July 26, 2020 by Danzig

Sept. 26, 1914July 20, 2020

As a surgeon at the National Naval Medical Center, Dr. Joseph R. Connelly treated John F. Kennedy during his term as president and future presidents Lyndon B. Johnson and Gerald Ford.

The injury that brought President Kennedy into Dr. Connelly's treatment room "received some press at the time," said Dr. Connelly's son Joseph.

"JFK was in the Oval Office with his young daughter, Caroline, and while reaching down to retrieve a toy for her, he struck his forehead on the corner of his desk, causing a laceration, which my father sutured," he said.

His surgery on the future presidentsJohnson, who was vice president at the time, and Ford were private between doctor and patient, his son said.

Dr. Connelly also was assigned to the medical crew that treated the Project Mercury astronauts.

After retiring from the Navy in 1963, Dr. Connelly moved to Buffalo with his family and became a pioneering reconstructive plastic surgeon.

Joseph R. Connelly, M.D., died on July 20 at Canterbury Woods in Amherst. He was 105.

Born in Perth Amboy, N.J., Dr. Connelly grew up in Jersey City, N.J., where he graduated from St. Peters Grammar School, Lincoln High School and St. Peters College, magna cum laude with a bachelor's degree. At St. Peters, he was captain of the track team and was awarded the Philosophy Medal.

Continue reading here:

Dr. Joseph R. Connelly, 105, treated three presidents and astronauts - Buffalo News

Select Page ::

Futurist Transhuman News Blog

Monthly Archives: July 2020

How six months of pandemic have changed Illinois forever – Crain’s Chicago Business

The COVID-19 Host Genome Structural Variant Consortium Formed by Dr. Ravindra Kolhe at Augusta University Creates a Massive Expansion in the Scope of…

UBC scientists sequencing the genomes of Canadians with COVID-19 – UBC Faculty of Medicine

Trends: To have or not to have a baby childless author Emma Gannon is blazing a trail for choice – Metro Newspaper UK

COVID19 Impact- Global Repair Tire Sealant Market Recent Industry Developments and Growth Strategies Adopted by Top Key player Slime, Bikeradar,…

The 1 Reason a Wooden Deck May Be a Better Choice Than Composite – Motley Fool

This saucy, smothered tofu with peppers and onions will have you dreaming of the Mexican coast – Borneo Bulletin Online

Empire Metals slides as Munni Munni transaction is threatened – Proactive Investors UK

Lovina’s Amish Kitchen: Wedding memories and Mother’s raisin pie – Traverse City Record Eagle

Third Parties Not Responsible for Defective Motion to Seal – JD Supra

Maintaining a rhythm of devout prayer and reflection at Lough Derg – Derry Now

Medical schools need to lower the cost of producing doctors – STAT – STAT

All World football: For Owasso’s Emaud Triplett, Army and medical school are in his future, but first another 6AI title run – Tulsa World

Does the US Have a Physician Shortage or a Physician Training Shortage? – The Doctor Weighs In

First practicing medical doctor to play in the NFL opts out of the 2020 season – WISHTV.com

Anthony Fauci, MD: Science as a voice of reason – AAMC

COVID-19 Impact & Recovery Analysis- Global Medical Education Market 2020-2024 | Gamification in Medical Education to Boost Growth | Technavio -…

Americans Are Spending Billions on Unnecessary Dental Treatments – The Atlantic

Metabolically Healthy, but Obese Individuals and Associations with Ech | DMSO – Dove Medical Press

Dr. Joseph R. Connelly, 105, treated three presidents and astronauts – Buffalo News