Monthly Archives: August 2020

Crews locate remains of 31-year-old male swept away into river – Medicine Hat News

Posted on by

By Ryan McCracken on August 2, 2020.

Medicine Hat Fire Service and South East Alberta Search and Rescue have located the remains of a 31-year-old male who was reportedly swept away into the South Saskatchewan River Saturday.

A release from Medicine Hat Police Service says the remains were located by the fire service at around 11:15 a.m. Sunday morning. The search began Saturday shortly after 5:30 p.m. when emergency services were called to the river in the area of Finlay Bridge, but the man was not recovered by darkness. The search then resumed early Sunday morning.

The release adds that foul play, alcohol and drugs are not believed to be factors in the incident, however MHPS has commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of the individual.

This is a normal function of the police and their duties as investigators on behalf of the Office of the Medical Examiner, reads the release. The Medicine Hat Police Service Victim Assistance Unit is supporting the family with ongoing support during the grief process.

Fire, police, South East Alberta Search and Rescue and HALO Air Ambulance all contributed to the search and recovery.

MHPS will not be releasing the name of the deceased.

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Go here to see the original:

Crews locate remains of 31-year-old male swept away into river - Medicine Hat News

Siddha system of medicine to be offered for COVID-19 treatment in Puducherry – The New Indian Express

Posted on by

By Express News Service

PUDUCHERRY:Puducherry Chief Minister V Narayanasamysaid that the administration isplanning to introduce the Siddha system of medicine treatment for COVID-19 patients by opening a separate hospital for it .

He said that it is beingsuccessfully offeredin Tamilnadu and several patients have got cured of the infection. A team of siddha doctorswould be sent to Chennai to learn the treatment modality and soon it will be introduced in ahospital for Siddha treatment.

Thosewho prefer to take treatment under Siddha system of medicine could opt for it, he said.

Pointing out that 200 new COVID-19 cases were reported in Puducherry today, the chief minister said that it is because Puducherry is doing more tests. Puducherry, Karaikal and Yanam regions of the UT were affected much. Mahe regionis Covid free.

The administration is taking all steps to provide adequate treatment to the affected persons, he said and added that as per the views of medical experts there could be six thousand positive cases here by the end of this month.

Even then, only 600 to 700 of themwould require hospitalization intensive care and treatmentwhich will be provided at the Covid hospitals of IGMCRI and JIPMER.

The others would be taken care at Covid care centres and at their individual homes.

See the original post here:

Siddha system of medicine to be offered for COVID-19 treatment in Puducherry - The New Indian Express

The function of the thymus and its impact on modern medicine – Science

Posted on by

How the thymus shaped immunology

The function of the thymus was discovered by Jacques Miller in 1961 and laid a foundation for immunology and modern medicine. Until that time, researchers mistakenly believed the thymus merely represented a remnant of defunct lymph tissue, something of an immune cell graveyard. In a Review, Miller recounts the seminal experiments and conceptual thinking that led to uncovering the critical function of the thymus and provides insights that can be learned from those early days. How knowledge of thymus function subsequently spawned the field of T cell biology and the impact it has had on immune cell interactions, vaccination, cancer immunotherapy, and the microbiome are also discussed.

Science, this issue p. eaba2429

Until the 1960s, the thymus had long remained an enigmatic organ with no known function or was considered to be just a graveyard for dying lymphocytes. By contrast, the circulating small lymphocytes found in blood and lymph had been shown in the late 1950s to be long-lived cells able to initiate an immune response when appropriately stimulated by antigen. However, although the thymus was known to be populated with lymphocytes, immunologists had not attributed any immune function to the organ. There were many reasons for this. For example, the cytological hallmarks of an immune response, such as the presence of plasma cells and germinal centers, were not seen in the thymus of healthy animals even after extensive immunization. Thymus lymphocytes, unlike lymphocytes from blood and lymphoid tissues, were unable to mount an immune response on transfer to immunocompromised recipients. Furthermore, thymectomy, which had always been performed in adult animals, was not associated with any immune defects.

In 1961, thymectomy was performed in mice during the immediate neonatal period and revealed the critically important function of the thymus in enabling the development of the immune system. Neonatally thymectomized (NTx) mice were highly susceptible to intercurrent infections, deficient in lymphocytes, unable to reject foreign skin grafts or produce antibody to some (though not all) antigens, and prone to developing certain tumors. There was no major immune defect after adult thymectomy unless the lymphoid tissues had been damaged by total body irradiation. Implanting thymus tissue into NTx mice or irradiated adult thymectomized mice restored immune function. When the thymus graft was taken from a foreign strain, the thymectomized recipients were found to be specifically tolerant of the histocompatibility antigens of the donor. This implied that the thymus was responsible not only for the normal development of immune functions but also for imposing tolerance to the bodys own tissues.

The thymus was shown to seed the lymphoid system with T lymphocytes that migrated to certain discrete areas of the lymphoid tissues and recirculated from the blood through lymphoid tissues, lymph, and back to the bloodstream. T cells exiting the thymus were found to be responsible for killing infected cells and for rejecting foreign tissue grafts. Therefore, T cells could soon be subdivided into subsets based on function, cell surface markers, and secreted products or interleukins. Thymus lymphoid stem cells were subsequently identified, and the epithelial and dendritic cells in the thymus were shown to greatly influence T cell development. They were able to educate T cells to recognize a great diversity of peptide antigens bound to the bodys own markers, major histocompatibility complex molecules, but purged any T cells that strongly reacted against the bodys own self-components. The use of irradiated adult thymectomized mice showed that T cells were not the precursors of antibody-forming cells but were essential to help, through some type of collaboration, other lymphocytes originating in bone marrow (B cells) to respond to antigen by producing antibody.

The discovery of thymus function and of T and B cell collaboration was a major immunological milestone because it not only opened up the field of immune cell interactions but also changed the course of immunology and medicine. It promoted the need for all immune phenomena, for example, memory, tolerance, autoimmunity, and immunodeficiency, as well as inflammatory and immunopathological disease conditions, to be reassessed in terms of the role played by the two distinct sets of lymphocytes and their subsets. We now know that T cells are involved in the entire spectrum of tissue physiology and pathology and even in situations not considered to be bona fide immunological conditions, such as tissue repair, dysbiosis, eclampsia, senescence, and cancer.

Hemopoietic stem cells originating in the yolk sac, fetal liver, or bone marrow migrate through the blood to the thymus, where they differentiate into T lymphocytes. Others differentiate within the bone marrow in mammals, or the bursa of Fabricius in birds, to produce B cells. Mature T and B cells circulate in the blood and lymph and colonize the T and B cell compartments of the lymphoid tissues.

The lymphoid system is intimately involved in immunological processes. The small lymphocyte that circulates through blood into lymphoid tissues, then through the lymph and back to the blood through the thoracic duct, is able to initiate immune responses after appropriate stimulation by antigen. However, the lymphocytes found in the thymus are deficient in this ability despite the fact that the thymus plays a central role in lymphocyte production and in ensuring the normal development of immunological faculty. During embryogenesis, lymphocytes are present in the thymus before they can be identified in the circulation and in other lymphoid tissues. They become educated in the thymus to recognize a great diversity of peptide antigens bound to the bodys own marker antigen, the major histocompatibility complex, but they are purged if they strongly react against their own self-components. Lymphocytes differentiate to become various T cell subsets and then exit through the bloodstream to populate certain areas of the lymphoid system as peripheral T lymphocytes with distinct markers and immune functions.

Read this article:

The function of the thymus and its impact on modern medicine - Science

Hot New Medicine: This 1,000-Year-Old Mixture of Garlic, Onion, Wine, and Cow Bile – Popular Mechanics

Posted on by

Scientists are studying a millennium-old medicinal recipe they say might be able to kill some antibiotic-resistant bacterial structures: onions, garlic, a splash of wine, and some cow bile. The ingredients sound like a house vinaigrette until you get to, well, the cow bile.

Researchers have known the mixture can kill Staphylococcus aureus, the bacterium responsible for most of what we call Staph infections. Now, a new paper shows it can also, figuratively, cut through stubborn and difficult-to-treat biofilm infections.

You love weird science. We love weird science. Let's get weird together.

Buckle up for something gross. A biofilm infection is one where the bacteria have grown into a mucuslike matrix of carbohydrate (a tough day for the writers at Encyclopedia Britannica) that sticks to the infected wound or area. Biofilms opposite term is planktonic, an individual organisma word formed from the sea creatures that, in turn, is from the Greek for to wander or drift. And a biofilm is greatergrosser, stickier, more dangerous, and more insidiousthan the sum of its planktonic parts.

Public domain

That makes it all the more exciting that Balds eyesalve, named because of its source in the medieval medical text Balds Leechbook, has been able to penetrate the film. Biofilms are much harder to treat due to reduced penetration of antibiotics through the extracellular matrix and the enhanced tolerance of biofilm-grown cells to many in-use antibiotics, the researchers explain:

None of the ingredients works alone, but in mixture, they're effective. Removing the wine, for example, reduced the effectiveness a lot despite wines relatively low levels of the antimicrobial agents scientists believe make this mixture effective. And only by exhaustively testing the mixture can scientists begin to design a clinical deployment for patients.

It could be that the conventional process for developing drugs may miss key aspects of those herbal remedies which could be effective against biofilms, the researchers speculate. Conventional drug development calls for the isolation of single active compounds, whereas historical medicine usually calls for combinations of whole plants (and other natural materials).

Make your inbox more awesome.

The scientists used a total of 75 different mixtures, which they made the traditional way.

Since theres a translation disagreement from the original old language of the Leechbook, they made some dual batches using both onion and leek.

Heres the key motivator for this particular experiment: Scientists already knew the salve mixture showed results with killing many kinds of dangerous bacteria, but they didnt know how those results scaled up to a more ingrained, established biofilm infection situation. And what they found is that the mixture worked on many of the bacteria in biofilm form, but not all.

Our work highlights the need to explore not only single compounds but also mixtures of natural products for treating biofilm infections and underlines the importance of working with biofilm models when exploring natural products for the anti-biofilm pipeline, the scientists explain.

This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io

This commenting section is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page. You may be able to find more information on their web site.

Read the rest here:

Hot New Medicine: This 1,000-Year-Old Mixture of Garlic, Onion, Wine, and Cow Bile - Popular Mechanics

St. Mary’s Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine recognized with national awards – Enid News & Eagle

Posted on by

St. Marys Regional Medical Center physicians, leaders, staff and clinicians gathered recently to celebrate the Center of Distinction award and the Robert A. Warriner III, MD, Clinical Excellence award, which were presented to the St. Marys Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine team by Healogics, a nationwide provider of advanced wound care services.

The St. Marys Center achieved outstanding clinical outcomes for 12 consecutive months including patient satisfaction higher than 92% and a minimum wound healing rate of at least 92% within 28 median days to heal, according to a press release. There were 601 centers eligible for the Center of Distinction award and 367 achieved the honor.

The Clinical Excellence Award was awarded as a result of scoring in the top 10% of eligible Healogics Wound Care Centers.

Millions of people are affected by chronic wounds, said Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine Medical Director Cindy Rogers, MD. The program at St. Marys offers effective treatments for complex and non-healing wounds caused by diabetes, vascular disease, injuries or other health conditions that have not healed in a reasonable amount of time. These awards recognize the impressive outcomes and high patient satisfaction that is the focus of our patient-centered program and I am very proud of our wound care team.

St. Marys Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine program is a member of the Healogics network of more than 600 Wound Care Centers, and provides access to benchmarking data and proven experience treating approximately 2.5 million chronic wounds, according to the press release.

Treatments at the Center include negative pressure wound therapy, total contact casting, bio-engineered tissues, biosynthetic dressings and growth factor therapies. The Center also offers hyperbaric oxygen therapy, which works by surrounding the patient with 100% oxygen to help progress the healing of the wound.

We celebrate the dedicated efforts of our Wound Care team, said Krista Roberts, St. Marys Regional Medical Centers chief executive officer. Year after year, our team members have demonstrated their commitment to providing exceptional wound care services with a collaborative and compassionate approach. The result is positive outcomes for our patients and an improved quality of life.

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.

Read the original here:

St. Mary's Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine recognized with national awards - Enid News & Eagle

Tom Purcell: Laughter really is still the best medicine – The Tribune – Ironton Tribune

Posted on by

I missed it again. So did the rest of America.

July 1s unofficial International Joke Day came and went without fanfare.

Thats regrettable, because we could all use a good belly laugh right now which gave me an idea.

The other day, after hearing more doom-and-gloom news while driving, I said to the Apple CarPlay app on my trucks stereo, Hey, Siri, tell me a joke.

Siri, Apples voice-activated digital assistant, replied, My cat ate a ball of yarn. She gave birth to mittens.

Thats an awfully corny joke but I laughed so hard, I accidentally steered my truck onto some roadside gravel.

When you laugh like that, its impossible to be angry or to dwell on whatever personal or business challenge may hang over your head

A belly laugh is an antidote to the self-seriousness thats one of the greatest afflictions of modern times. And with a pandemic killing thousands and crippling the economy, plus protests and social unrest, we need belly laughs more than ever. One psychologist suggests practicing laughing with a friend because utter seriousness can drive us to despair.

Social media gives everyone a platform to share thoughts, which is good. But some self-serious people get awfully huffy with others who disagree with or challenge their thinking. Theyre so serious and so certain that those who disagree with them are wrong, even evil, that they demonize their detractors.

They dont try to converse, debate or understand differing viewpoints. OK, boomer and OK, Karen memes offer cases in point.

Humor and laughter, wonderfully infectious, keep us from falling into the trap of self-seriousness, promoting goodwill, thoughtfulness and civility. Humor is an elixir, a tonic that is good for mind and spirt, says an executive coach.Laughters power is incredible and that power lasts.

One of my favorite family stories dates to the early 1950s. Freddy, my dads uncle on his mothers side a real character had a neighbor who was among the first in their area to buy a VW Beetle. Behind the neighbors endless boasting about his Beetles terrific gas mileage was conceit essentially, Im smarter than you, which is why Im getting way better gas mileage than you!

Freddy began sneaking next door at night to fill the VWs gas tank. As he did so, his neighbors boasts grew louder and more tiresome the guy was ready to call the Guinness World Records people, as his VW clearly was getting more miles per gallon than any other Beetle on Earth.

After a month, Freddy continued sneaking next door. But now he siphoned gas from the Beetles tank to the point where the neighbor thought his VW was getting worse gas mileage than any other Beetle on Earth.

Were still laughing at the braggart neighbor who suddenly stopped bragging.

Theres more evidence of the power of laughter. More than 60 years ago, my mother first heard this joke, which she vividly remembers, and still laughs at:

A lady whod been grocery shopping was walking to her car when she tripped and dropped a paper bag and two eggs fell out of the carton and broke onto the pavement. She was so upset that she started crying. A drunk walked up, surveyed the situation, and told her, Dont worry, lady. It wouldnt have lived anyway. Its eyes are too far apart.

We all need to laugh more. It really is the best medicine for our current ails.

Tom Purcell is a Pittsburgh Tribune-Review humor columnist and is syndicated by Cagle Cartoons. Email Tom at Purcell@caglecartoons.com.

Link:

Tom Purcell: Laughter really is still the best medicine - The Tribune - Ironton Tribune

Unfortunate NBA tattoos and then men who sport them – Pounding The Rock

Posted on by

During the Spurs final scrimmage game, I saw T.J. McConnell driving to the basket and I had to ask myself, what did he get tattooed on his left shoulder?

At first I thought it was a pattern like a leopard, or a cheetah, or a jaguar. I mean, it wouldnt be the strangest choice of body ink.

And then a moment later, I noticed that Doug McDermott had the same relative pattern.

Dont get me wrong, Im all for team camaraderie, but matching ink blot tattoos?

Then Bill Land mentioned that the Pacers players had been involved in cupping, a form of alternative medicine where special cups are placed on the skin for a few minutes to create suction. The suction leaves the circular patters both McConnell and McDermott were sporting.

Although I was relieved the markings were not the result of a night of heavy drinking, there was truth to the reality that if they were indeed tattoos, they wouldnt be the worst tat seen on the NBA hardwood.

It did prompt the question- who has the most unfortunate tattoos in the NBA?

There was a time when the NBA required a college degree and clear skin to be a member of its league. But since the emergence of Dennis Rodman, the issue of tattoos has gone by the wayside.

Basketball superstars are human, just like everybody else. Kevin Durant famously comes to mind for a misspelled tattoo. Some homegrown tattoos were (hopefully) inked before these players had a salary, because they look like they were inked on a beach by the King of Staten Island.

Richard the Jeffersons RJ looks like it was scribbled during sophomore homeroom and inked during lunch.

Similarly, Marcin Gortats homage to Air Jordan may have been acquired by an underground tattoo parlor by an unlicensed artist.

Caron Butlers original design, a skeletal grim reaper of sorts must have been causing an uproar at church, so he took a page out of a Rorschach test as a cover up.

Speaking of cover ups . . .

Notice Kenyon Martin had his girlfriends lips permanently emblazoned on his neck? Those were there for a while, but after the break-up . . .

He added some design to turn it into a crown of sorts.

The lips/crown may be an acceptable transition, but Kenyons left arm begs the question, Should you get a tattoo of a baby?

Im talking to you, Wilson Chandler.

Chandler has an image of his daughter creeping out of his jersey. Im sure shell be excited when her prom date meets dad some day.

And then, of course, theres Chris Anderson.

I mean, come on.

Birdman is the exception to the rule that tattoos can be stylish and fashionable in the NBA. If this guy hadnt made $16M over his career, hed be the easiest identifiable perp to hold up a convenience store.

You would think the tattoos of the players of yesteryear would encourage todays youth to think before they ink, or at least make an honest investment of it. But not every player is sure they will make the dollars that an NBA player can earn, so you end up with.

What started as a lone alien head turned into a quick sleeve as soon as the ink dried on Murrays contract. The knuckles to shoulder approach does avert the eyes from the extra terrestrial, but does not completely eliminate it.

No one currently playing has as many seemingly irrelevant tattoos as Willie Cauley-Stein who has gone the extra mile to get inked on his face.

There is good and bad ink everywhere, and tattooing is obviously a trend that is not going anywhere for a while.

So its here for you to ponder, Pounders- which NBA players have the best and worst tattoos?

Welcome to the Thread. Join in the conversation, start your own discussion, and share your thoughts. This is the Spurs community, your Spurs community. Thanks for being here.

Our community guidelines apply which should remind everyone to be cool, avoid personal attacks, not to troll and to watch the language.

Read the original here:

Unfortunate NBA tattoos and then men who sport them - Pounding The Rock

Thai hospitals get the go-ahead to produce traditional cannabis medicines – The GrowthOp

Posted on by

Thailand is warming to cannabis with the announcement that some hospitals can now legally produce traditional medicine containing cannabis as long as a traditional Thai medicine expert is on duty to prepare them.

The traditional medicines are treatments for common illnesses in some provinces, says the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine in Bangkok Post. The medicines can only be from among the 16 recipes permitted by the Thai government that include cannabis as the base ingredients, said Marut Jirasetthasiri, director-general of the department.

The change hopes to answer the fact that more people have started to seek treatment using traditional medicine, Marut pointed out.

Across Thailand, 291 units have been established at state-run medical outlets that can dispense cannabis-mixed medicines. So far this year, Bangkok Post reports, 60,000-plus rounds of treatments have been provided to patients.

Across Thailand, 291 units have been established at state-run medical outlets that can dispense cannabis-mixed medicines. / Photo: aulynn / iStock / Getty Images Plusaulynn / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Additionally, 152 health promotion hospitals have been given the green light to expand their cannabis farms to meet the demand for weed-based medicines.

Recreational cannabis remains illegal in Thailand, but marijuana is legal for medical and research purposes. Even if for medical purposes, however, importing weed in the country remains a no-go.

There have also been proposals to allow people to grow as many as six marijuana plants in their homes.

Want to keep up to date on whats happening in the world of cannabis? Subscribeto the Cannabis Post newsletter for weekly insights into the industry, what insiders will be talking about and content from across the Postmedia Network.

Follow this link:

Thai hospitals get the go-ahead to produce traditional cannabis medicines - The GrowthOp

IU Health calls for alternative to Indy 500 with fans to avoid spike in COVID-19 – WISHTV.com

Posted on by

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) IU Health fears the Indianapolis 500, even with a reduced crowd, could lead to a spike in COVID-19 infections and calls on the race organizers to consider an alternative to a race with fans.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway on July 21 announced attendance for the 104th running of the race on Aug. 23 will be approximately 25% of capacity. Face coverings will be required for all attendees. Ticket sales ended Friday. IMS also presented its nearly 100-page plan with its guidelines and protocols to address the need to control the spread of the coronavirus.

IU Health, though, also notes the other places where gatherings could occur restaurants, bars, accommodations and more as being a concern beyond the track.

Based in Indianapolis, IU Health is the largest network of physicians in Indiana. Its a partner with Indiana University School of Medicine, one of the nations leading medical schools.

Heres the entire statement from IU Health:

We appreciate Indianapolis Motor Speedways detailed plan to safely host the 104th Running of the Indianapolis 500. We have concerns about the risks of infection beyond the scope of the IMS plan, including social gatherings, travel, restaurants, bars, accommodations and other event-related activities. This could lead to a spike in COVID-19 infections as we continue to see cases and hospitalizations increase every day. Until we sustain better control of this virus and its spread, we strongly encourage IMS to consider an alternative to running the Indy 500 with fans in August.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway responded late Wednesday night in an email to WISH-TVs newsroom:

IU Healths viewpoint is inaccurate and premature.

IMS has put together a plan that will serve as a model for the careful and conscientious management of events during this pandemic. It is informed by expert advice and reflects our belief that with carefully considered precautions in place, its not necessary or appropriate to return to shutting down events that are important to our state and city.

Despite attempts by our organization to engage with IU Health leadership, we have not received a single suggestion from IU Health as to how our approach might be improved. In contrast, public health officials from our city and state have engaged with us for months. They have given us numerous suggestions that we have implemented, and they have approved our plans subject to continued review.

We remain open to meaningful input from IU Health that will improve our detailed operational plan as we move closer to Race Day.

Coronavirus restrictions in force for Marion County since July 23 include all bars closed, and restaurants with 50% indoor capacity and outdoor seating with social distancing. Social gatherings including weddings, banquets, parties and club meetings are limited to 50 people. All other forms of gatherings, meetings, or special or seasonal events must be limited to 250 people or fewer, unless the citys Public Health department approves a risk mitigation plan for a special or seasonal event that anticipates more than 250 attendees.

The health networks statement came on the same day Gov. Eric Holcomb extended the Stage 4.5 reopening plan through Aug. 27 because of high seven-day average positivity rates for the coronavirus. On July 22, Holcomb initiated a statewide mask mandate. Indianapolis has been under a mask mandate since July 9.

With updated information from the Indiana Department of Health on July 28, this timeline reflects updated tallies of deaths and positive tests prior to that date.

See more here:

IU Health calls for alternative to Indy 500 with fans to avoid spike in COVID-19 - WISHTV.com

Coronavirus: Hydroxychloroquine use in NZ studies abandoned due to lack of evidence and Covid-19 cases – Stuff.co.nz

Posted on by

AP

A study found no evidence of benefit from a malaria drug promoted as a treatment for coronavirus. Hydroxychloroquine did not lower the risk of dying or needing a breathing tube in a comparison that involved nearly 1400 consecutive patients in New York.

A New Zealand Covid-19 study looking at the efficacy of weekly prophylactic hydroxychloroquine regimes for high risk frontline healthcare workers has abandoned the use of the controversial drug.

Based on the lack of evidence around the effectiveness of the anti-malaria drug which was controversially promoted by US President Donald Trump and Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro the study wont move onto recruitment and trials.

The drug, which has been suggested as a possible Covid-19 treatment, is yet to be used in trials in New Zealand. It was to be included in three studies that received funding from the Health Research Council (HRC) and Ministry of Health in April.

Given the rapidly emerging evidence on potential Covid-19 treatments from other international trials, all three trials have adapted significantly and have removed hydroxychloroquine as a candidate for treatment or prevention, the council spokesperson said.

READ MORE:* Study finds hydroxychloroquine ineffective against mild Covid-19 cases* Covid-19: British breakthrough finds cheap drug improves survival rate* Coronavirus: Hydroxychloroquine researchers angry, embarrassed by dodgy studies* Coronavirus: What is hydroxychloroquine and why is New Zealand throwing money at it?

The drug has been at the centre of many global studies. Researchers in the US found it to be ineffective against mild Covid-19 cases, and the World Health Organisation (WHO) withdrew it from its Solidarity Trial after finding it produced little or no reduction in mortality rates of hospitalised cases.

The front line healthcare workers study will be funded until its set-up phase. The remaining $300,000 in funding hasnt been reallocated.

Completing the set-up phase would enable the researchers to be in a position to reinitiate a healthcare worker prophylaxis study in [the] future, should there be a major second wave of Covid-19, or an influenza pandemic, the spokesperson said.

If this were to happen, the study would recommence with an alternative medicine, not hydroxychloroquine.

The small amount of Covid-19 cases in New Zealand has also impacted progress of two other HRC-funded studies REMAP-CAP COVID and ASCOT.

Low case numbers in New Zealand has meant recruitment to the two patient trials has not begun, the spokesperson said.

As such, hydroxychloroquine has not been, and will not be, used in New Zealand Covid-19 patients.

REMAP-CAP COVID is an adaptive study that focuses on critically ill Covid-19 patients requiring intensive care. It is open in New Zealand but hasnt begun recruitment.

ASCOT enrols hospitalised Covid-19 patients who dont need intensive care. It is yet to open and recruit participants. The use of lopinavir/ritonavir, another drug the WHO withdrew from its study, has also been removed.

Ben Margot/AP

Hydroxychloroquine wont be used in any New Zealand studies.

Instead of using hydroxychloroquine, researchers in New Zealand and Australia have pivoted the two existing studies to focus on convalescent plasma.

Convalescent plasma involves transfusing antibodies in the plasma of recovering patients into newly infected patients. This treatment method was previously used during the 2009 influenza pandemic, and SARS and MERS outbreaks.

Over 20,000 patients in the United States have safely received convalescent plasma for Covid-19. While conceptually attractive, we still need clinical trials to demonstrate efficacy for patients with Covid-19, said ASCOT principal investigator, associate professor Steven Tong from Australias Doherty Institute.

The REMAP-CAP COVID study is also evaluating other therapies such as immune-modulation treatments, anti-coagulation strategies, vitamin C, and ventilatory strategies.

"This means that patients within these trials are randomised to treatments that are more likely to be beneficial, while interventions determined to be inferior are discontinued, the HRC spokesperson said.

They explained that both the council and the Ministry of Health see the importance of these studies progressing, especially if community transmission becomes an issue again.

In the absence of a vaccine, the clinical trials provide access to the latest emerging evidence on prophylaxis and treatment.

There are 22 active Covid-19 cases in managed isolation and quarantine facilities. None are receiving hospital-level care.

No confirmed cases have been hospitalised in New Zealand for a considerable amount of time, and over 90 days have passed since there was last evidence of community transmission.

See the original post:

Coronavirus: Hydroxychloroquine use in NZ studies abandoned due to lack of evidence and Covid-19 cases - Stuff.co.nz

Promising Opportunities in North America and Europe to Propel the Growth of the Alternative Cancer Treatment Market 2018 – 2026 – Market Research…

Posted on by

New Study on the Global Alternative Cancer Treatment Market by PMR

PMR recently published a market study that sheds light on the growth prospects of the global Alternative Cancer Treatment market during the forecast period (20XX-20XX). In addition, a methodical and systematic approach adopted by the analysts while curating the market study ensures that the presented study adds value to the business of our customers. The report provides a thorough evaluation of the latest trends, market drivers, opportunities, and challenges within the global Alternative Cancer Treatment market.

As per the report, the global Alternative Cancer Treatment market is expected to grow at a CAGR of ~XX% during the stipulated timeframe owing to a range of factors including, favorable government policies, and growing awareness related to the Alternative Cancer Treatment , surge in research and development and more.

Request Sample Report @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.co/samples/23062

Resourceful insights enclosed in the report:

Competitive Outlook

The competitive outlook section provides valuable information related to the different companies operating in the current Alternative Cancer Treatment market landscape. The market share, product portfolio, pricing strategy, sales and distribution channels of each company is discussed in the report.

Request Report Methodology @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.co/methodology/23062

Regional Assessment

The presented market study touches upon the market scenario in different regions and provides a deep understanding of the influence of micro and macro-economic factors on the prospects of the market in each region.

Key players of alternative cancer treatment market includes Innovative Medicine, LLC, Esperity, Northwest Natural Health Clinic, and many more. The companies in alternative cancer treatment market are increasingly engaged in strategic partnerships, collaborations, mergers and acquisitions to capture a greater pie of market share as the market is in the nascent stage.

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

The report covers exhaustive analysis on:

Regional analysis includes

The report is a compilation of first-hand information, qualitative and quantitative assessment by industry analysts, inputs from industry experts and industry participants across the value chain. The report provides in-depth analysis of parent market trends, macro-economic indicators and governing factors along with market attractiveness as per segments. The report also maps the qualitative impact of various market factors on market segments and geographies.

Report Highlights:

For any queries get in touch with Industry Expert @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.co/ask-an-expert/23062

The market report addresses the following queries related to the Alternative Cancer Treatment market:

More:

Promising Opportunities in North America and Europe to Propel the Growth of the Alternative Cancer Treatment Market 2018 - 2026 - Market Research...

Medical Wellness Market Revenue Analysis 2020 by Industry Size, Share, Growth, CAGR and Revenue Overview Forecast to 2026|Top key players Massage…

Posted on by

The report on the global Medical Wellness market discusses the various products and their scope in the market. An overview of the global market from an industrial standpoint is presented. The global Medical Wellness market is split into different market segments and after a thorough analysis, the market share of these different segments is provided from the year 2020 to 2026 while the forecast of the data based on the similar market segmentation is carried out from the year 2020 to 2026. The overview of the global market in relation to other markets and the revenue that can be earned from each is also included in the report. Popular trends that can affect the market growth are identified for the base period from the year 2020 to the year 2026. The data is also predicted after extensive market research for the forecast period from the year 2020 to the year 2026.

The report provides a basic overview of the industry including definitions and classifications. The Medical Wellness Market analysis is provided for the international markets including development trends, competitive landscape analysis, and key regions development status.

Get a Sample Report of this Report @ https://www.reportsandmarkets.com/sample-request/global-medical-wellness-market-size-status-and-forecast-2019-2025?utm_source=thediamondreport&utm_medium=6

Some of the leading players in Medical Wellness include @ Massage Envy,Steiner Leisure Limited,World Gym,Fitness World,Universal Companies,Beauty Farm,VLCC Wellness Center,Nanjing Zhaohui,Edge Systems LLC,HEALING HOTELS OF THE WORLD,Golds Gym International,Bon Vital,Kaya Skin Clinic,The Body Holiday,Kayco Vivid,Arashiyu Japanese Foot Spa,Enrich Hair & Skin,WTS International,Biologique Recherche,Guardian Lifecare

Development policies and plans are discussed as well as manufacturing processes and cost structures are also analyzed. This report also states import/export consumption, supply and demand Figures, cost, price, revenue and gross margins.

Global Medical Wellness Market Report 2020 is a professional and in-depth research report on the worlds major regional market conditions of the Medical Wellness industry, focusing on the main regions (North America, Europe and Asia) and the main countries (United States, Germany, Japan and China).

The report focuses on global major leading industry players providing information such as company profiles, product specification, price, cost, revenue and contact information.

The report firstly introduced the Medical Wellness market basics: definitions, classifications, applications and industry chain overview; industry policies and plans; product specifications; manufacturing processes; cost structures and so on. Then it analyzed the worlds main region market conditions, including the product price, profit, capacity, production, capacity utilization, supply, demand and industry growth rate etc. In the end, the report introduced new project SWOT analysis, investment feasibility analysis, and investment return analysis.

Market segment by Type, the product can be split intoComplementary and Alternative MedicineBeauty Care and Anti-AgingPreventative & Personalized Medicine and Public HealthHealthy Eating, Nutrition & Weight LossRejuvenationOther

Market segment by Application, split intoFranchiseCompany Owned Outlets

Market segment by Regions/Countries, this report coversUnited StatesEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaCentral & South America

Following key questions are answered through this report:

What are the restraining factors in front of the businesses?

Which factors are driving the Global Medical Wellness Market growth?

What are the recent trends in the Global Medical Wellness Market?

What are the global opportunities for getting new clients rapidly?

What are the key regions for expanding the market globally?

What are the threats and challenges in front of the businesses?

Who are the key players in the Global Medical Wellness Market?

TABLE OF CONTENT:

Get Complete Report @ https://www.reportsandmarkets.com/enquiry/global-medical-wellness-market-size-status-and-forecast-2019-2025?utm_source=thediamondreport&utm_medium=6

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.

Contact Us:

Sanjay Jain

Manager Partner Relations & International Marketing

http://www.reportsandmarkets.com

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

Link:

Medical Wellness Market Revenue Analysis 2020 by Industry Size, Share, Growth, CAGR and Revenue Overview Forecast to 2026|Top key players Massage...

L.A.’s Go-Tos for Virtual Meditation, Breathwork and Sound Baths – Hollywood Reporter

Posted on by

Kerry Washington routinely shares quick yoga sequences and even a breathwork meditation flow with her 5.9 million followers on Instagram. The Little Fires Everywhere actress also often gives a shoutout to her own teachers who conduct wellness classes on IG Live. Across almost every platform, from Instagram (which launched a tool called Guides in mid-May that directs users to well-being content) and Wanderlust TV to the Mind-Body app, yogis, gurus and healers are in high demand to provide virtual sessions in meditation, sound baths and breathwork, practices that date back thousands of years.

"There's more of an adoption of these practices," says filmmaker Liz Goldwyn, founder of digital platform The Sex Ed and a fan of sound baths, which are sessions in which ambient music is played to help reach a meditative state. With so many people spending so much time at home, she continues, "We need to sit in these uncomfortable moments and not push away feelings of anxiety."

Goldwyn, who is teaching herself to play Tibetan singing bowls, also sees these modalities as a way of fueling up for current challenges, including battling social injustice. "Self-care is an act of revolution. To go out and fight and see real change, it's important to have these tools in our arsenal."

Some practitioners are starting to offer in-person sessions, such as L.A.-based writer-director Sebastian Siegel (sebastiansiegel.com), whose two-hour Guided Lucid Dreaming events incorporate sound, breath practice and meditation. (Guests who've been known to attend include Mena Suvari, Mariel Hemingway and Frances Fisher, who are in Siegel's upcoming film Grace and Grit.) Attendance is by referral to these small-group meetings, held outdoors at a private home. Says Siegel, "Any time we are going on an adventure exploring internal terrain is time well spent."

Meditation

GLOBAL TRIBE RETREATS Tom Morley known for his Global Tribe Retreats with co-founder Nina Nazar, held in travel destinations around the world has pivoted to virtual yoga and meditation, with more than 200 live classes conducted in the past few months. "There's an external crisis, and that usually stirs uncertainty and fear," says Morley of an increased interest he's seeing. The guided, live meditation classes are an "excuse to be and sit together" virtually, according to Morley, who is trained in Vipassana and Transcendental Meditation and whose students include an Oscar-winning actress. "Some people bring a glass of wine with them, and we all chat before and after." $29 weekly subscription; globaltriberetreats.com

METTAGROUP "In 1968, The Beatles' White Album came out and everybody was examining the idea of Transcendental Meditation," says George Haas, founder of Mettagroup, describing the awakening he believes brought meditation to the American consciousness. Haas studied meditation with renowned teacher Shinzen Young, worked as a film director and writer, and began leading his own classes in 2000. Now presented on Patreon, offerings range from hourlong sessions and daylong workshops to a six-month course to peel back layers of anxiety and trauma. The Buddhist meditation practice takes students through the tenets of Metta (loving-kindness) and Vipassana (insight) meditation once they've mastered the basics of attention training to quiet the mind. Later this year, Haas, in partnership with singer-songwriter Sia, will open the I Love You Keep Going Center in Van Nuys, with a yearlong attachment-repair program and community library. $20 suggested, per class; mettagroup.org

UNPLUG MEDITATION Suze Yalof Schwartz opened Unplug Meditation in 2014, seeking to fill a void in L.A.'s vibrant wellness market. "There were no drop-in meditation studios that were secular, modern and clean like an art gallery," says the former fashion editor. When California's lockdown went into effect this spring, Schwartz and her team quickly launched live-streamed classes. Apple recently helped redesign the Unplug Meditation app, which features one-minute to one-hour classes from a global roster of carefully vetted experts in practices including sound healing, sleep training and stress management. Among the teachers is Olivia Rosewood, who learned meditation from George Harrison and worked with mystic Eckhart Tolle. "Right now people need to feel calm, present and productive," says Schwartz. $24 per class; unplug.com

Breathwork

BREATHE WITH RAE LO A doula and reiki master, Raegan Loston, of Breathe With Rae Lo, sees breath as a tool for everyone. "It's one of the few involuntary functions that we can influence," she says. "It is a healing function that can transform our lives moment to moment." During her video classes, she guides students to embark on a rhythmic breath pattern with music and then transition to passive breath. Loston, who also teaches at Unplug Meditation, plays chimes to close the session. "It's like a wave that allows them to acknowledge where they are," she says. "You can harness your power to influence change in your life and go on with the day." $185 for private lessons; $24 per class through Unplug; breathewithraelo.com

SCOTT SCHWENK "Breath goes right into the nervous system. Do strong work with the breath, and you will have a shift," says Scott Schwenk, the creator of Ecstatic Breathwork, whose path has included becoming a reiki master before the age of 22, living in a yoga ashram, and working at Innovative Artists and CAA. His technique is a series of specific, simple breathing exercises intended to remove emotional blockages. "Scott is an extremely intuitive teacher," says actress Alyssa Diaz (Narcos: Mexico, The Rookie), who completed Schwenk's teacher certification program in October. She now shares breathwork techniques with her Instagram followers (@alydiaz) on what she calls the "Wind Down," along with her fiance, Grammy-nominated musician Gustavo Galindo, who does sound baths during the sessions. "It felt like a bolt of lightning went through my body, a shift and connection to myself that I hadn't had." Schwenk offers private Zoom sessions, as well as classes on the digital platforms Livekick ($15 per class) and Wanderlust TV ($17.99 per month). scottschwenk.com

Sound Baths

SOULSTROLOGY SOUNDBATHS "The ancient Greeks used sound as a healing tool to aid digestion, help calm the mind and assist with better sleep. Tibetan singing bowls have been used in temples by monks for centuries," explains Ambi Kavanagh, of Soulstrology Soundbaths and Alchemy With Ambi, who adds that the benefits also can include slowing down brain waves and helping calm the nervous system. A former entertainment lawyer, she began learning to play gongs and singing bowls in 2012 with Jamie Bechtold, one of the city's sound bath pioneers (whose GongPlay SoundLab in Eagle Rock is now closed because of COVID-19 regulations). Last year, she kicked off Goop's health summit in L.A. Her sessions boast a blend of astrology and sound healing. $18 monthly subscription; soulstrology.com and alchemywithambi.com

ROXIE SARHANGI "My sound healing sessions are heart-focused and connect the mind, body and soul," says Roxie Sarhangi, resident sound healer at 1 Hotel West Hollywood. Since her certification in 2018, Sarhangi has conducted hypnotic, soothing sessions which include a guided meditation and sound from seven crystal bowls, a symphonic gong, ocean drum, koshi chimes and Tibetan bowls that have earned her a loyal following. She's added virtual workshops (which mix sound healing, breathwork and poetry by such revered writers as Rumi and Hafez) for well-being as people cope with the ongoing pandemic. $20 per virtual class; roxiesoundhealing.com

Restorative Movement

ALIGNED LIFE STUDIO Lauren Roxburghs mind-body-spirit approach has made her one of the most sought-after wellness experts in the country. Her long list of celebrity clients includes Jordana Brewster, Emmy Rossum and Sofia Bush. Early in her career, she trained star athletes such as LeBron James and Landon Donovan. The best-selling author of two books (dubbed The Body Whisperer by Goop) has racked up accolades and certifications in structural integration and pilates in addition to her degrees in nutrition and exercise physiology. Yet it was her explorations throughout her 20s, following the work of Deepak Chopra and Andrew Weil, and studying reiki and rolfing, that created the foundation for her expertise on fascia, the casing of connective tissue that surrounds every organ and blood vessel in the body. For decades, alternative medicine practitioners have believed that fascia not only can harden and cause pain, but also store deep-rooted trauma, stress and emotional blockages.

My mom was diagnosed with breast cancer when I was 16, says Roxburgh. The experience put me on this path of wanting to learn what wellbeing truly meant. Streaming in 50 countries, Roxburghs Aligned Life holistic method and studio are a powerhouse program which includes her signature foam-roller workouts, live streaming classes and multiweek challenges, on- and offline coaching and support groups, nutrition, and meditation. She launched the virtual Aligned Life Studio in 2013, together with her husband, Emmy-nominated documentary producer Gus Roxburgh.

Every session begins with a body scan and check-in, neuromuscular self-assessment, and dropping into a calmer state. The whole point is taking time to move, says Roxburgh. Movement becomes meditation slow, methodical and using the breath. We close with meditation, clearing and intention imparting a new sense of calm, new sense of lightness as well as weight loss, improved posture, flexibility, and better pleasure in bed. Most people who go on this journey find ease, freedom and flow. $29 a month/$299 a year;laurenroxburgh.com.

***

Pandemic Mantras and Other Meditations

Feeling COVID-19 fears? Sad about social injustice? Top wellness practitioners offer these recommended sayings

1. "Oh soul, you worry too much. You have seen your own strength. You have seen your own beauty. You have seen your golden wings. Of anything less, why do you worry? You are in truth the soul, of the soul, of the soul." a quote from Persian poet Rumi favored in sessions by sound healer Roxie Sarhangi

2. "Sometimes, we look around and think, well, if everyone else is doing it, why not me? But thats the wrong question to ask, especially if what we want is to live in a better, more just world. The stronger question is: If everyone did what Im thinking of doing, would the world be a better place? If yes, then thats our cue to act." Unplug meditation teacher Light Watkins, who offers daily insights on Instagram (@lightwatkins), where he raises funds for COVID-19 and Black Lives Matter charities

3. "Feel the breath as it flows inward toward the ancestral knowing of survival and protection. Lean in and surrender into any grief and anger. Inhale all that is nurturing and exhale all that no longer serves you. Release. Let go." Jylani Maat Brown, mindfulness practitioner at Unplug

A version of this story first appeared in the July 31 issue of The Hollywood Reporter magazine. Click here to subscribe.

Visit link:

L.A.'s Go-Tos for Virtual Meditation, Breathwork and Sound Baths - Hollywood Reporter

Lam Tian Xings Anthem of the Calamus is an ode to Hong Kongs resilient spirit – Lifestyle Asia

Posted on by

When the Taiwanese writer Gu Yue waxed poetic about Lams lotus paintings in his 2014 essay Tian Xing Fantasia, the passage started off with the verse I am the lotus, and the lotus is me the perfect representation of how artist Lam Tian Xing said he has come to see his career.

Born in Fujian Province in 1963, Lam grew up near the Lotus Peak (or Lianhua Feng), located in the scenic Wuyi Mountains, best known for being an ancient tea-growing region. You could say the presence of the mountain foreshadowed his artistic career (according to him, it definitely inspired part of it) when he would dedicate more than a decade to studying the plant that is heavily symbolic in Chinese tradition and Buddhist teachings, often seen as a sign of resilience.

In 2019, however, Lam made the decision to switch his focus to the tall, grassy calamus plant (the changp in Chinese). Sitting in the basement of the Illuminati Fine Art Gallery on Hollywood Road, he recounted what his new exhibition Anthem of Calamus at the gallery meant to him.

His paintings, known to be combinations of Eastern and Western painting techniques and styles, have depicted flowers, nature as well as the concrete jungles of modern civilisations. His past inspirations have ranged from classical painters such as Bada Shanren in the Ming Dynasty to Zhou Sicong in the 20th Century. However, he noted that no artist he had seen had focused on the calamus as a key subject like in his Anthem series.

For Lam, and as for many Chinese people, the calamus is a symbol of healing. It has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine to remove phlegm and dampness and particularly blockages in the heart, a belief also shared in Ayurvedic medicine. In ancient Chinese culture, the plant was also seen as an ingredient to promote spiritual enlightenment and longevity.

In western medicine, the root is recognised for its ability to soothe upset stomachs and an assortment of digestive ailments, while modern research has also promoted the use of the species for mental and emotional ailments, such as depression and anxiety.

Describing it as a sword, Lam felt it had the ability to bless the people of Hong Kong during difficult times, and, whether as a physical or symbolic salve, it could help fight the pain and frustration found in current society.

Whenever people mentioned Lam Tian Xing they think of the lotus and when they think of the lotus, they think of Lam Tian Xing, he said when asked about the change in his artistic focus. When you reach a certain point, [its] time for a change. The calamus that is actually a plant that grows near the lotus. When you see the lotus, you see the calamus as well. So it is my expression of admiration to the lotus as well as the calamus itself.

From the start of his series in early 2019, the pieces focus on the individual blades of the plant. In some of his paintings, they are depicted in neon orange, cutting through equally vibrant backgrounds, or in black against more monochrome palettes of stormy grey. There appears to be an urgency of purpose with which the plant bursts forward. While painting this series, he noted certain differences in the way he depicted the calamus. He mentioned how in paintings like Admire (above), he found himself working the lotus into the background. He had just switched and his old muse was very much still a part of his art.

However, as Lam progressed, he transitioned from figurative and colourful depictions of the calamus plant to more abstract work. This was accompanied by a shift in perspective zooming in to the micro-details and zooming out to see fields of the plant in an all-encompassing landscape, as seen in Sound of Spring below.

I would observe [the calamus] closely at first, then I would imagine them much further away. So, those brighter yellow spots are actually all calamus like they are growing. Imagination is also very important in observing my art pieces, the artist said.

At times, Lam would study different perspectives of the same plant in his art. In Growth (1) through Growth (4), Lam tried to capture the different angles of the plant itself. Laughing, he compared it to cooking: With one [ingredient], you can cook it in four different styles to have four different flavours.

But as the series progressed, his focus became more philosophical. His favourite painting from the series is a perfect example of this. An ink on paper piece done in black and white, Mystic Thought represents Lams attempt to capture the contrasts in the world around him. For him, its the contrast between the East and the West, yin and yang and Asian culture and the modern world.

Lams last paintings for the series were completed in 2020, just as the CoViD-19 pandemic hit Hong Kong, which further solidified the emotions he felt as he painted, surrounded by clusters of plants. In Lams own words, painting the calamus represents the fear [of the pandemic], the worry and then also the admiration for life and the the hope for a brighter future and that everything will get better.

Illuminati Fine Art is hosting Lam Tian Xings solo exhibition Anthem of Calamus for in person viewing (by advance online reservation only) and on an online viewing room through till 19 September 2020

Visit link:

Lam Tian Xings Anthem of the Calamus is an ode to Hong Kongs resilient spirit - Lifestyle Asia

Inside the battle to save the banana – Marketplace

Posted on by

While international spotlight is on the spread of COVID-19, theres another pathogen that scientists arestruggling to contain: tropical race 4, or Panama disease. It doesnt threaten human life but its endangering what the United Nations has deemed the worlds fourth most important food crop: the banana.

A startup in the English city of Norwich is leading the fight to save the banana from this disease.

We are changing the banana genetics to make it more resistant to Panama disease and other diseases, said Gilad Gershon, CEO of Tropic Biosciences, on a recent tour of the companys laboratory.

For 20 years, Panama disease a fungal infection has been spreading across the tropics. Last year it surfaced in Latin America, where most of the worlds bananas for exportare grown. Worldwide, banana exports have been valued at about $13 billion a year

The industry already lives on a very low margin and any disruption of that could have a catastrophiceffect for the industry and the major players in it, Gershon said.

Tropic Biosciences is editing out the genes that make the banana vulnerable to the disease. Gene editing is likely to be met with less resistance from international consumers and regulators than genetic modification, which involves adding DNA of different organisms.

People may be happier about gene editing because it doesnt introduce new genes, said Dr. Dan Bebber, a plant expert at Exeter University.

Nevertheless, the gene editing procedure has fallen foul of the European Unions anti-genetic modification regulations and therefore Tropic Biosciences bananas would be barred from sale in the EU.

Europe accounts for about 30% of global imports. Its a big chunk of the market, conceded Gershon. But this is the reality we have to live with. And theres a very big world outside Europe; 70% of the market is available to us.

Genetic engineering is not the only way to save the banana.Dr. Bebber, who leads an initiative investigating the resilience of banana production and supply, the BananaEx Project, points out that the export trade is particularly vulnerable because it relies on a single strain of the fruit, the Cavendish, which is particularly susceptible to Panama Disease.

We need to think about the diversity of the plants were growing. And there are scientific research groups around the world looking at breeding new types of bananas, as well as the other approaches like gene editing, said Dr. Bebber.

With big money at stake, Tropic Biosciences wont be the only contestant in the race to save the banana. But it will hold its first field trials later this year and plans to have its banana seeds that are resistant to Panama Disease on the market within four years.

As a nonprofit news organization, our future depends on listeners like you who believe in the power of public service journalism.

Your investment in Marketplace helps us remain paywall-free and ensures everyone has access to trustworthy, unbiased news and information, regardless of their ability to pay.

Donate today in any amount to become a Marketplace Investor. Now more than ever, your commitment makes a difference.

Go here to read the rest:

Inside the battle to save the banana - Marketplace

Novartis Taps Sangamo Zinc Finger Tech for Gene Regulation Therapies – Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News

Posted on by

Novartis has agreed to license Sangamo Therapeutics zinc finger protein transcription factors (ZFP-TFs) to develop gene regulation therapies for neurodevelopmental disorders that include autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability, the companies said, through a collaboration that could generate more than $795 million for Sangamo.

Through Sangamos ZFP-TFs, the companies plan over three years to develop treatments addressing three target genes associated with neurodevelopmental disorders, by upregulating the expression of key genes that are inadequately expressed in individuals with certain neurodevelopmental disorders.

The goal is to create new gene regulation therapies that act at the genomic level, moving us beyond the symptom focused treatments of today and toward therapies that can address some of the most challenging neurodevelopmental disorders, Jay Bradner, president of the Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, said in a statement. This collaboration with Sangamo is part of our commitment to pioneering the next generation of neurodevelopmental treatments.

Sangamos ZFP-TF genome regulation technology, now delivered via adeno-associated viruses (AAVs), is designed to selectively repress or activate the expression of specific genes to achieve a desired therapeutic effect, at the DNA level.

While AAVs have many advantages that make them well-suited for gene therapy, Novartis says, they also have one disadvantage: They cant carry large genes. The collaboration is designed to enable the companies to target diseases caused by mutations in one copy of a large gene.

The gene for a ZFP-TF is small enough to fit inside an AAV, Ricardo Dolmetsch, head of neuroscience at the Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, explained in a post on the companys blog. We can use it to increase the production of a large gene in someone who still has one intact copy of the gene. This dramatically expands the range of diseases that we can potentially target with gene therapy because many diseases are caused by the loss of a single copy of a gene.

Each of Sangamos ZFP-TFs is engineered to bind to a target region of genomic DNA in a highly specific and selective manner. They can be designed to precisely modulate the expression of targeted genes to varying extents. After identifying its target, the ZFP-TF recruits other proteins that help switch genes on or off.

The zinc finger nuclease technology is remarkable, Macrae told GEN in January. Its one of the commonest transcripts in the body. Its natural and human, and its very, very adaptable. The individual units are modular, so one is always able to come up with a solution for any part of the genome.

For its part, Sangamo reasons that it can engineer zinc finger proteins to address virtually any genomic target.

We are building a broad pipeline of wholly owned and partnered programs with the goal to bring our genomic medicines to patients, stated Sangamo CEO Sandy Macrae. In the case of the central nervous system, there are potentially hundreds of neurological disease gene targets that may be addressable by our zinc finger platform.

For Sangamo, the collaboration with Novartis is the second signed this year that focuses on applying ZFP-TFs toward treating neurological disorders. In February, Sangamo launched a potentially more than $2.7 billion partnership to develop and commercialize Sangamo gene regulation therapies. The collaboration included ST-501 for tauopathies including Alzheimers disease, ST-502 for synucleinopathies including Parkinsons disease, a third treatment targeting an undisclosed neuromuscular disease target, and additional treatments for up to nine additional undisclosed neurological disease targets over five years.

In its latest partnership with Novartis, the Swiss pharma giant will have exclusive rights to ZFP-TFs targeting the genes, which are undisclosed, during the three-year collaboration period.

Novartis also has the option to license Sangamos AAVs. Sangamo has agreed to oversee specified research and associated manufacturing activities, all of which will be funded by Novartiswhile Novartis agreed to oversee additional research activities, investigational new drug-enabling studies, clinical development, related regulatory interactions, manufacturing, and global commercialization.

Novartis agreed to pay Sangamo a $75 million upfront license fee within 30 days, plus up to $720 million tied to achieving development and commercial milestonesconsisting of up to $420 million in development milestones and up to $300 million in commercial milestones.

Sangamo is also eligible to receive from Novartis tiered high single-digit to sub-teen double-digit royalties on potential net commercial sales of products arising from the collaboration.

Partnering Sangamos proprietary technology with Novartis deep experience in neuroscience drug development is a powerful combination which expands Sangamos pipeline and allows us to tackle challenging neurodevelopmental conditions, Macrae added.

More here:

Novartis Taps Sangamo Zinc Finger Tech for Gene Regulation Therapies - Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News

New Cuban drug with very encouraging results against COVID-19 – OnCubaNews

Posted on by

The Cuban drug known so far as CIGB-300 is showing very encouraging results against COVID-19 in its first phase of clinical evaluation, according to the official media.

The antiviral-action drug was designed by the Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB) in Havana, and is being studied as part of the research being carried out by Cuban science to confront the pandemic, the BioCubaFarma business group said on Facebook.

Las investigaciones no se detienen en @BioCubaFarma, nuevos medicamentos se evalan para la enfermedad #COVID19. Un

Posted by Biocubafarma onSaturday, August 1, 2020

With previously demonstrated antitumor efficacy, the CIGB-300 is the subject of a controlled clinical trial that started last May in patients positive for SARS-CoV-2, pointed out Cubadebate, which doesnt offer conclusive or preliminary statistics about the trial.

The study seeks to find out the efficacy of this drug against the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, following the steps of research carried out with other drugs, which have also had good results.

In total, the CIGB is currently working on 16 lines of research related to the treatment and control of COVID-19, according to Dr. Gerardo Guilln, director of biomedical research at the renowned scientific institution.

Cuba inaugurates plant to produce drug against COVID-19

A few days ago a synthetic peptides production plant was inaugurated at the CIGB, which is already producing a drug successfully used as part of the Cuban medical protocol against coronavirus.

The role of Cuban science, and in particular of its prestigious biotechnology industry, has been fundamental in confronting the epidemic on the island. Several of its products, including Jusvinza or CIGB-258, the recombinant interferon alpha 2bboth CIGB, and Itolizumab, have shown their effectiveness in different stages of the disease.

Original post:

New Cuban drug with very encouraging results against COVID-19 - OnCubaNews

Feeding the World with Genetic Technologies: Technologies and Policies – IDTechEx.com

Posted on by

Genetic Technologies in Agriculture 2020-2030: Forecasts, Markets, Technologies

Genome editing (CRISPR, TALENs, ZFNs), Transgenics (GMOs), Synthetic Biology, and Breeding in Crop Agriculture: Technology and Market Analysis

By Dr Michael Dent

21st century agriculture is facing some major challenges. The global population is set to increase to over 10 billion by 2050, something the UN estimates will require a 70% from today's global food production. At the same, resources are dwindling - the loss of agricultural land stemming from climate change and urbanisation coupled with plateauing crop yields will present major challenges to every nation on Earth.

Genetic technologies in agriculture 2020-2030, a new report from IDTechEx, explores the use of biotechnology as a potential solution to these challenges. The report provides in-depth technical and market insight into the different genetic technologies used in crop agriculture, including transgenics (GMOs), genome editing techniques (CRISPR, TALENs, ZFNs, etc.) and breeding strategies, while also exploring the regulatory and industrial landscapes in which they operate. The report forecasts the future of the industry over the next decade, identifying genome editing technologies as a key growth area.

This is not the first time that world has faced a food crisis This is not the first time that the world has faced a food crisis due to plateauing yields and growing populations. In the 1960s, famine threatened much of Asia, with Paul Ehrlich's 1968 bestseller "The Population Bomb" predicting that famines centred in India would kill hundreds of millions across the following decades.

This bleak future was mostly avoided, largely thanks to the Green Revolution. Using selective breeding, American biologist Norman Borlaug created a high yield strain of wheat that led to more grain per acre, significantly boosting Mexico's agricultural output. Soon, similar strategies were used in India to develop high yield IR8 rice. These selective breeding strategies, alongside advances in fertiliser and mechanisation technologies led to a boom in global food production, with cereal production in Asia doubling between 1970 and 1995.

Selective breeding is just one of many techniques for manipulating the DNA of plants in agriculture to create improved seeds and traits. Over the past few decades, the genetic engineering tools available to scientists has expanded to include methods such as mutagenesis and transgenic breeding, the technique used to develop "genetically modified organisms" (GMOs). However, in recent years, technological advances such as next generation DNA sequencing and gene editing techniques such as TALENs, ZFNs and CRISPR-Cas9 have vastly expanded the capabilities of genetic engineering. This has led to much excitement in the field of agricultural biotechnology, with proponents hoping that modern genetic technologies could help usher in a new Green Revolution of agricultural productivity. Synthetic biology and manipulation of the crop microbiome could open a huge window of opportunities for boosting yields in previously inaccessible ways.

The report assesses the following:

Read the original:

Feeding the World with Genetic Technologies: Technologies and Policies - IDTechEx.com

Bannon Calls for Ban on Nike and Apple Products in the United States – Corporate Crime Reporter

Posted on by

Steve Bannon took to the airwaves yesterday on his daily show War Room: Pandemic and called for a ban on all Nike and Apple products in the United States.

Nike and Apples products should be banned in the United States of America, Bannon said. Woke Nike and Woke Apple are using slave labor in China. Their wokeness is a head fake and a diversion. Their business model is based upon the back breaking forced slave labor costs in China. Thats why their margins are so high. (Apple CEO) Tim Cook is the biggest phony in the world. The guys at Nike are the biggest phonies in the world. Look at the people you are stealing from. . . .Woke Apple that the Republicans and certain people in the Trump administration kowtow to, using slave labor.

Bannon reprimanded Congressional Republicans for arguing that to stand up to China, weve got to keep the concentration of power in these tech companies.

Its exactly the opposite, Bannon said. That is a bald faced lie. The last thing we need is more empowerment of these tech companies. They are not interested in a fight with the Chinese Communist Party. These companies are all in business with the Chinese Communist Party. Its outrageous to use this as an excuse.

In another segment of his show yesterday, Bannon brought up an op-ed that ran in the Wall Street Journal earlier this week titled How to Hold Beijing Accountable for the Coronavirus Why did China cover up the epidemic? The most plausible explanation involves a Wuhan lab, by Jamie Metzl.

Metzl served in the National Security Council and State Department in the Clinton administration. He is a senior fellow of the Atlantic Council, a member of the WHO international advisory committee on human genome editing, and author of Hacking Darwin: Genetic Engineering and the Future of Humanity.

To ensure everyones safety, the WHO and outside investigators must be empowered to explore all relevant questions about the origins of the pandemic without limits, Metzl wrote. This comprehensive forensic investigation must include full access to all of the scientists, biological samples, laboratory records and other materials from the Wuhan virology institutes and other relevant Chinese organizations.

Denying that access should be considered an admission of guilt by Beijing, Metzl concluded.

On his podcast, Bannon read that portion of the op-ed and then said Beijing is not just going to turn over the relevant information.

Give them 72 hours to turn over everything, Bannon said. Then you drop the hammer on them. You sanction the banks. You sanction the individuals. You cut them off from the dollar. The only thing they understand is smash mouth.

See more here:

Bannon Calls for Ban on Nike and Apple Products in the United States - Corporate Crime Reporter

Protein Sequencing Market Updated Business Strategies, Growth and Opportunities|Agilent Technologies – PharmiWeb.com

Posted on by

Pune, Maharashtra, India, July 31 2020 (Wiredrelease) MarketResearch.Biz : The recent report posted via MarketResearch.Biz on Protein Sequencing market offers critical market insights in conjunction with targeted segmentation evaluation. The report examines key using elements which might be anticipated to drive the increase of the market.

Global Protein Sequencing Market Research Report offers crucial data on numerous market situations, for example, ability improvement elements, elements controlling the advancement, market possibilities, and risks to the global market. Also, the report widely facilities round competitive evaluation of Protein Sequencing Market. The competitive evaluation section includes key producers, recent players, providers, market strategies, ability chances, operation panorama, and evaluation of the traits of the Protein Sequencing market. The market consequences are targeted by round the present market scenario. To gauge and expect the competitive scenario on this market. This report will likewise assist all of the producers and speculators to have an advanced comprehension of the investments to recognize wherein the market is heading.

For Better Understanding, Request A Free Pdf Sample Copy Of Protein Sequencing Market Here@ https://marketresearch.biz/report/protein-sequencing-market/request-sample

(***Our FREE SAMPLE COPY of the report offers a quick advent to the studies report outlook, TOC, a listing of tables and figures, an outlook to key players of the market, and comprising key regions.)

Leading players of Protein Sequencing including:

Agilent Technologies Inc, Bioinformatics Solutions Inc, Charles River Laboratories Inc, Proteome Factory AG, Rapid Novor Inc, Selvita SA, SGS SA, Shimadzu Corporation, Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc, Waters Corporation

Segmentation on the Basis of Component: Sample Preparation Products & Services, Protein Sequencing Products, Protein Sequencing Services. Segmentation on the Basis of Technology: Edman Degradation, Mass Spectrometry. Segmentation on the Basis of Application: Biotherapeutics, Genetic Engineering. Segmentation on the Basis of End User: Academic Institutes & Research Centers, Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Companies

Download Now And Browse Complete Information On The COVID 19 Impact Analysis On Protein Sequencing Market:https://marketresearch.biz/report/protein-sequencing-market/covid-19-impact

Protein Sequencing Report Covers Following Questions:

1. What will the market increase rate, increase momentum of Protein Sequencing market

2. What is the envisioned size of the rising Protein Sequencing market in 2029?

3. Which section is anticipated to account for the most important Protein Sequencing market percentage by 2029?

4. What are sales, revenue, and value evaluation by areas of Protein Sequencing market?

5. What are the market risk, market possibility and market review of the Protein Sequencing market?

6. Who are the distributors, dealers, and buyers of Protein Sequencing market?

Moreover, the report in brief research the overall performance of each historic statistics in conjunction with the current traits. It consists of an entire evaluation of various attributes inclusive of production base, type, and size. This report evaluates the market segmentation in conjunction with the competitive panorama worldwide in addition to the local level. The report additionally discusses approximately the growing want for Protein Sequencing market.

Reasons for Buying this Report

The worldwide Protein Sequencing market report offers a forward-searching attitude on Driving and restraining elements of the market increase.

Ten-year forecast assessed on the premise of how the market is expected to grow

Future evaluation is moreover supplied on how the market is predicted to grow

Past market dynamics of the past years

Helps in know-how the important thing product segments and their future estimations

Focused evaluation of converting competitive dynamics to recognize the procedures utilized by the numerous key players withinside the market

Any Query? Feel Free To Enquire Here: https://marketresearch.biz/report/protein-sequencing-market/#inquiry

Report on Global Protein Sequencing Market 2020 contains of 10 Sections in Table as follows:

Industry Overview of Protein Sequencing: Includes numerous definitions, specs in conjunction with its features, and applicability.

Protein Sequencing Manufacturing Cost & Price Structure Analysis: Raw Material required and their suppliers, price shape evaluation on the subject of production, structural evaluation of promoting price, break-even factor evaluation, and procedure evaluation.

Production Description: Capacity and Commercial Production Date of Protein Sequencing Major Manufacturers in 2020, Manufacturing Plants Distribution, R&D Status, and Technology Source and Raw Materials Sources Analysis.

Global Protein Sequencing Overall Market Overview: Overall Market Analysis starting from Production to Revenue

Global Protein Sequencing segmentation:

By Type: Sales and Factors impacting the increase in sales.

By Application: Consumer evaluation in conjunction with the end-user evaluation.

Analysis of Major Manufacturers of Protein Sequencing across the world: Examination of every Company profiles, picture of the object and details, sales, preceding costs, income, Gross Margin Analysis, Business Region Distribution Analysis

The trend of Protein Sequencing Market: Protein Sequencing Market Trend Analysis, Market Size (Volume and Value) Forecast, Regional Market Trend, Market Trend via way of means of Product Type and Applications.

Browse The Complete TOC of the Report: https://marketresearch.biz/report/protein-sequencing-market/#toc

The Protein Sequencing market report reads pin-direct evaluation for converting extreme dynamics in regards to converting factors that drive or limits market improvement. The report is comprehensively visualized to forecast the market factor of view and possibilities wherein it has an extension to expand in the future. Basically, the report segregates the potential of the market withinside the current and the upcoming opportunities from numerous edges in detail.

About Us:

MarketResearch.Biz is a specialized market research, analytics, and solutions company, offering strategic and tactical support to clients for making well-informed business decisions. We are a team of dedicated and impassioned individuals, who believe strongly in giving our very best to what we do and we never back down from any challenge. The company offers services such as data mining, information management, and revenue enhancement solutions and suggestions. We cater to industries, individuals, and organizations across the globe, and deliver our offerings in the shortest possible turnaround time.

Contact Us:

Mr. Benni Johnson

Prudour Pvt. Ltd.

420 Lexington Avenue,

Suite 300 New York City, NY 10170,

United States

Tel: + 1-347-826-1876

Website: https://marketresearch.biz/

This content has been published by MarketResearch.Biz company. The WiredRelease News Department was not involved in the creation of this content. For press release service enquiry, please reach us at contact@wiredrelease.com.

Go here to read the rest:

Protein Sequencing Market Updated Business Strategies, Growth and Opportunities|Agilent Technologies - PharmiWeb.com