Has The Rapid Influx Of Information Made Personal Health Care Straight Forward And Achievable? – South Florida Reporter

Posted on July 29, 2020 by Prof Baldwin

The internet and social media applications such as Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, Instagram, and other community platforms have bombarded audiences with relevant and irrelevant information. It is extremely difficult to handle the volume of information available online and discriminate between good and rubbish knowledge. But as a counterpart self-grooming, self-learning, and taking the right decision about oneself have helped people extensively.

If a person is smart enough to filter out positive information then he or she can make great use of information provided on different platforms to achieve optimum self-care. Digital marketing and networking have given a huge turn around to the health, beauty, fashion, and food sectors.

In this article, we will discuss the major treatments of self-care and health that are helping thousands around the world to look better and feel better.

Top 4 most beneficial and prospering treatments for better well being!!

The readiness of information has surely made people more conscious of their well being. Everybody wants to look good, feel healthy, and happy. If someone goes through some kind of problem relating to their appearance or personal issues, the first thing they do is ask Google or watch Youtube videos to seek guidance. Few treatments to name are,

Who in the world does not want to have radiant and flawless-looking skin? Everybody is running after to have that natural glow to make others go blind. There are a number of companies that are producing a magical concoction to treat minor to major skin problems. These treatments can be carried out at home with care and proper guidance. If you are someone who wants a specialists help then you can access a list of renowned doctors who you can easily consult for treatments and procedures.

Erectile dysfunction is a condition that is thought to be incurable but it is not true. This can be treated with comfort if proper support is present. A positive and healthy lifestyle can gravely help and in worst-case scenarios, medication can surely help to get rid of the issue. Numan has provided sufferers with quality medications and treatments to fully enjoy their sex-life.

Almost around 25% of males suffer from male pattern baldness at the age of 21 years if it is hereditary. Everyone must keep a close watch on the abnormal loss of hair to prevent the worst conditions. The process of early hair loss can be controlled if the right medication is taken in time. Medicines like minoxidil and finasteride are a great hit in the market to stop hair fall and promote regrowth of hair.

Obesity is one of the most challenging problems that is taking the world by storm. According to the demographics of 2016 around 39% of women and 39% of men were recorded overweight at the age of 18 and above. Being fat can be very serious and can result in other major health issues, hence it is ideal to take immediate action and start off with treatments depending on the condition. Few treatments to list are

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Has The Rapid Influx Of Information Made Personal Health Care Straight Forward And Achievable? - South Florida Reporter

Webinar to look at putting technology front and center in defining ‘sustainable’ – ASU Now

Posted on July 28, 2020 by Prof Baldwin

Over the past few decades the concepts of sustainability and sustainable development have been weaving their way into the fabric of various branches of engineering. Advocates declare that being sustainable should, in fact, be the guiding light of all engineering endeavors.

Yet some proponents in the field contend that sustainability remains a largely ambiguous idea. They say it lacks distinct frameworks for defining precisely what it means in utilitarian terms, and thus hinders the development of consistent guidelines for implementation. An upcoming webinar The Overlooked Role of Technology in the Sustainability Movement: A Pedagogical Framework for Engineering Education will focus on the need for engineering educators to emphasize the importance of technology in shaping the design and construction of sustainable systems. Graphic by Rhonda Hitchcock-Mast/ASU Download Full Image

Those calling for more specificity in defining the role of engineers include T. Agami Reddy and Brad Allenby, professors in theIra A. Fulton Schools of Engineering at Arizona State University. They assert that the general perception of sustainability has not sufficiently evolved beyond its origins in environmental and social movements to encompass todays technological advances.

A major impediment to remedying that drawback, as Allenby and Reddy see it, is a failure to properly integrate an understanding of technology and technological development into the core precepts of what constitutes sustainability.

Technological advances are shaping society more quickly and in more fundamental ways than ever, the professors say. So, in their view, sustainable engineering cant fully transition from a broad philosophy into a deep-rooted industry practice without clearly detailing how sustainability can be achieved in rigorously technical ways.

That progress is hampered not only by a lack of understanding of the importance of assimilating technological considerations into what constitutes sustainability, they say, but also an inability to translate the vague assertions about sustainability by its advocates into the concrete design objectives and constraints familiar to engineers.

Reddy and Allenby will present their views on this challenge during an Aug. 11 webinar presented by the Metis Center for Infrastructure and Sustainable Engineering at ASU and moderated by the centers director, Fulton Schools Associate Professor Mikhail Chester. The Metis Center is involved in research, teaching, outreach and public service to provide a basis for understanding, designing and managing complex integrated built, human and natural systems.

The Zoom webcast The Overlooked Role of Technology in the Sustainability Movement: A Pedagogical Framework for Engineering Education will focus on the close association between sustainability and engineering, and suggest a quantitative framework based on a short list of metrics for engineers to evaluate their progress toward sustainability goals.

Another focus will be the subject of developing the metrics necessary to ensure technological progress is integrated into the aspirations of the sustainability enterprise. There will also be discussion on developing approaches to preparing students for the changes that would emerge from such a refocusing of sustainable engineering.

We have to figure out what sustainability means when you translate it into the actual technical practice of engineering, Allenby said. But after you decide what that is, then you need the masterplan for how you are going to teach this type of thinking to students and industry professionals or the change in practice is not going to happen in the real world.

Reddy hopes the webinar will foster dialog and provide a pathway for engineers to become more fundamentally involved with social and environmental scientists in both defining sustainability goals and implementing sustainable solutions.

The idea for the webinar came from Professor Ram Pendyala, director of one of the six Fulton Schools, the School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment. Allenby and Reddy teach in the school. Reddy also teaches in The Design School in ASUs Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts.

Pendyala was motivated by reading a research paper in the Journal of Engineering for Sustainable Buildings and Cities authored by the two professors, as well as a paper in the same journal authored by Reddy on the concept of resilience in engineering pursuits. Both papers examine issues that are subjects of the webinar.

We have done a lot of research in sustainable engineering, and many of us have integrated sustainable engineering concepts and thoughts into our research in some fashion, Pendyala said. But we havent necessarily done the same in our teaching enterprise, and I am not convinced that we are sufficiently preparing our students to think about sustainability-related implications of rapidly emerging technologies, designs, energy systems and so on.

Pendyala encouraged Professor Matthew Fraser, associate director of the School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, to work with Reddy and Allenby to organize a webinar advancing new paradigms in engineering education.

We hope the event will help faculty from ASU and other universities use insights from the latest research to improve education for the next generation of sustainability and technology leaders, Fraser said.

Allenbys career-long work has contributed to defining sustainability as an academic discipline and promoting it as a vital industry practice.

Twenty-five years ago, Allenby and Tom Graedel, now a professor emeritus at the Yale School of the Environment at Yale University, co-authored Industrial Ecology the first textbook on that then-emerging field, which set the stage for the birthing of sustainability engineering.

Several years later Allenby wrote a second textbook, Industrial Ecology: Policy Framework and Implementation, focusing on the social, economic and policy implications of industrial ecology that vigorously thrust the field into the sustainability realm. He and Graedel later merged the two areas in the 2010 textbook Industrial Ecology and Sustainable Engineering.

Two years later, Allenby authored The Theory and Practice of Sustainable Engineering, providing a detailed guide for schools to create courses in the subject.

Reddys research has long focused on solar energy equipment and systems, along with energy efficiency and conservation in buildings and related systems, and more recently on how to model and evaluate energy systems for sustainability and resilience. He holds the title of SRP Professor of Energy and Environment, a position supported by Salt River Project, one of Arizonas largest power and water utilities.

Through his experience, Reddy says he realizes the importance of emphasizing to students the fundamental techno-centric concepts of sustainability relevant to building structures and producing systems in ways that will meet goals related to functionality, resilience and longevity the three primary objectives of sustainability.

Our challenge is to quantify how to accomplish those things in actual on-the-ground engineering work, Reddy said.

At the same time, its critical that the education of todays students keeps pace with any reconceptualizing of sustainable engineering, Allenby said.

That will necessitate equipping aspiring engineers with more knowledge of artificial intelligence, data science and other cutting-edge technologies and methods to produce the algorithms and design strategies that guide todays engineering efforts, Reddy and Allenby say.

The professors note they have geared the webinar presentation to students as well as college faculty members and industry professionals. Reddy and Allenby will present their own perspectives on how to realign education in sustainability and then lead discussion on the topic with the audience.

The webinar will be from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m. Pacific Time on Tuesday, Aug. 11.Register for the event.

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Webinar to look at putting technology front and center in defining 'sustainable' - ASU Now

Sparrow Ionia, Health Department offer COVID testing Wednesday – WSYM-TV

Posted on July 28, 2020 by Prof Baldwin

IONIA, Mich. Sparrow Ionia Hospital and the Ionia County Health Department are combining to offer COVID-19 nasal swab testing at a special one-day event in Lake Odessa on Wednesday, July 29.

The testing will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at St. Edwards Catholic Church Family Center, 741 Washington Blvd., Lake Odessa. Attendees are asked to use the north parking lot off of Washington Boulevard.

A nasal swab (or PCR) test determines whether or not you have an active COVID-19 infection at the time the sample is collected. Its a molecular test that is reviewed at Sparrow Laboratories. Nearly 100 people were swabbed at a similar event held recently in Belding.

Residents can attend without having a doctors order in advance. No money will be collected onsite and Sparrow will bill those with medical insurance.

Sparrow Ionia Hospital has been working collaboratively with the Ionia County Health Department to ensure the health and safety of our community, said Sparrow Ionia President Linda Reetz.

Again, the goal is to protect the community we serve as our county and state begin to reintroduce people back into the workforce.

Those seeking more information can contact the ICHD at 616.527.5341.

One of the most effective ways to contain any epidemic is widespread testing, said Ionia County Health Officer Ken Bowen.

We encourage anyone who has symptoms, who may have been exposed, or who will be returning to work to get tested.

Check out other Health related articles in our Yes to Healthy Living section of our website.

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Sparrow Ionia, Health Department offer COVID testing Wednesday - WSYM-TV

Less Than a Quarter of U.S. Adults Say Theyve Been Tested for Hepatitis C Despite CDC Recommendations for Universal Testing – Yahoo Finance

Posted on July 28, 2020 by Prof Baldwin

On World Hepatitis Day, Lincoln Financial joins the American Liver Foundation and the global community to raise awareness of the importance of hepatitis C testing for all adults and treatment advancements.

Lincoln Financial Group (NYSE: LNC) joins the American Liver Foundation (ALF) to raise awareness for the millions of Americans infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV), as the rate of new HCV infections was four times as high in 2018 as it was in 2009.1 In a recent Lincoln survey, more than 80% of U.S adults say they know what HCV is, yet only 35% are aware its curable, indicating confusion as cases of the disease continue to rise.2

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 2.4 million people in the United States are living with chronic hepatitis C,1 however, its estimated that 4 in 10 people dont know theyre infected.3 With the increase in new cases, and so many unknown cases, earlier this year the CDC updated its testing recommendations, calling for one-time screening for all adults 18 years and older (with routine periodic testing for those with ongoing risk factors), and screening of all pregnant women during every pregnancy. Despite these recommendations, only 24% of Lincoln survey respondents said theyve been tested for HCV.2

"As the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of testing is as clear as ever when it comes to combating infectious diseases," said Dr. John Greene, Vice President and Chief Medical Director for Lincolns individual Life Insurance business. "The same is true when it comes to HCV, the silent epidemic for which theres a cure. As a member of ALFs Corporate Council, Lincoln stands with ALF and the global community to advocate for HCV awareness, prevention, testing and treatment, to help eliminate this disease."

Nearly 70% of those surveyed by Lincoln said they arent concerned about themselves or a family member getting sick from HCV.2 In fact, just 26% said theyve talked about liver health with their health care provider.2 If left untreated, chronic hepatitis C can lead to liver damage, cirrhosis and liver cancer. Unfortunately, the disease has few noticeable symptoms, which often dont appear for years or decades.

Thankfully, the treatment of HCV infections has evolved significantly in recent years with the development of direct-acting antiviral medications resulting in shorter treatment duration, fewer side effects and cure rates of roughly 95%.

"In the midst of this unprecedented pandemic, it is easy for people to overlook routine, but critical, health maintenance," said Lynn Gardiner Seim, EVP & Chief Operating Officer, American Liver Foundation. "As we all continue to take steps to ensure our health, it is imperative, now more than ever before, to adhere to HCV testing guidelines so people who need treatment can receive it before chronic hepatitis C results in significant liver health issues."

Getting treated can provide a second lease on life for those with HCV. Treatment can improve liver and physical health, mental and emotional health, and overall wellness, enabling the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle that HCV may have stood in the way of before.

Treatment can even help overcome financial planning challenges that HCV may have presented in the past, such as obtaining affordable life insurance. Of those surveyed by Lincoln, just 42% said they thought individuals with HCV can get life insurance coverage.2 Lincoln has incorporated the newest clinical information about HCV medical advancements in its underwriting approach to offer more favorable underwriting ratings for most individuals with hepatitis C who have been successfully treated, resulting in lower costs for life insurance coverage. Lincoln has also expanded coverage eligibility for some untreated individuals.

Hep C Resources and Information

To learn more about hepatitis C diagnosis, treatment and support, visit HepC123.org

To see the full hepatitis C survey conducted by Lincoln, click here.

About Lincoln Financial Group

Lincoln Financial Group provides advice and solutions that help empower people to take charge of their financial lives with confidence and optimism. Today, more than 17 million customers trust our retirement, insurance and wealth protection expertise to help address their lifestyle, savings and income goals, as well as to guard against long-term care expenses. Headquartered in Radnor, Pennsylvania, Lincoln Financial Group is the marketing name for Lincoln National Corporation (NYSE:LNC) and its affiliates. The company had $247 billion in end-of-period account values as of March 31, 2020. Lincoln Financial Group is a committed corporate citizen included on major sustainability indices including the Dow Jones Sustainability Index North America and FTSE4Good. Dedicated to diversity and inclusion, Lincoln earned perfect 100 percent scores on the Corporate Equality Index and the Disability Equality Index. Lincoln has also been recognized in Newsweeks Most Responsible Companies and is among Forbes Worlds Best Employers, Best Large Employers, Best Employers for Diversity, Best Employers for Women and ranked on the JUST 100 list. Learn more at: http://www.LincolnFinancial.com. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram. Sign up for email alerts at http://newsroom.lfg.com.

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Less Than a Quarter of U.S. Adults Say Theyve Been Tested for Hepatitis C Despite CDC Recommendations for Universal Testing - Yahoo Finance

Asia Pacific Blood Meal Market Forecast to 2027 – COVID-19 Impact and Regional Analysis By Source ; Application, Process, and Country – GlobeNewswire

Posted on July 28, 2020 by Prof Baldwin

New York, July 28, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Asia Pacific Blood Meal Market Forecast to 2027 - COVID-19 Impact and Regional Analysis By Source ; Application, Process, and Country" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p05934766/?utm_source=GNW Blood meal is considered as rich source of protein, iron and nitrogen and is used to supplement feed diets based on cereal grains, remains of plants and forages.

Blood meal serves an advantage over plant-based protein and other feed ingredients owing to their rich nutritional profile and cost effectiveness.Apart from their use in feed industry, blood meal also finds application as natural and organic fertilizer to promote plant growth.

Therefore, with the surge in demand for healthy feed products coupled with increase focused towards environment sustainability and crop protection, the market for blood meal is expected to rise over the forecast period.

Based on Source, the Asia Pacific blood meal market has been segmented into porcine blood, poultry blood and ruminant blood.The poultry blood segment dominated the blood meal market in 2018 and is projected to grow at a faster pace over the forecast period.

However, the porcine blood segment is expected to grow at a rapid pace during forecast period.Some of the industries are offering glutaraldehyde-stabilized freshly prepared pig red blood cells for research or other purposes.

Porcine blood, which is also known as pig blood or swine blood, encapsulates many of the similar characteristics of human blood and is quite a useful animal model in many areas of research.Poultry blood is collected from chicken mainly for two purposes, such as to obtain serum, which can be tested for various disease virus antibodies, no anticoagulant is required in this process, and the blood is allowed to clot.

Ruminant blood is collected mainly from a cow. Fresh and whole blood is collected from slaughterhouses, then coagulated, and finally steam dried, which is often referred to as animal protein transformed from the blood. The demand for a ruminant blood meal is increasing among the animal farmers since they are quite concerned about the healthy yield of the ruminants and others. Also, the rising demand for nutritious meat products among the consumers globally is further influencing the ruminant blood meal market

Geographically, the Asia Pacific blood meal market is segmented into Australia, China, India, Japan, South Korea and rest of Asia Pacific.China is considered as a major market for blood meal.

As per the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the demand for livestock products has substantially gone up in the country which is expected to bolster the growth of the market.Additionally, the demand for animal protein is rising in the country so as to boost the health and growth of the animals.

This is expected to have a positive impact upon the growth of the blood meal market growth in China.Blood meal is extensively utilized as an organic fertilizer to promote the growth of crops and to control pests.

The growing consciousness among consumers for a healthy lifestyle has posed a demand for healthy animal-derived products, which is expected to boost the demand for blood meal in Asia Pacific market. Moreover, expanding disposable income and rising purchasing capabilities are predicted to impact market growth positively.

Allanasons Pvt. Ltd., APC Company, Inc., Apelsa Guadalajara, SA de CV., Ridley Corporation Limited, Sanimax, Terramar Chile SpA, Valley Proteins, Inc. and FASA Group are among the major players operating in the Asia Pacific blood meal market.

Wuhan (China) is the city in which the outbreak of covid-19 initially started in in December 2019.Since then, it has spread at a fast pace across the world.

China, Italy, Iran, Spain, republic of Korea, France, Germany, and the US are some of the worst affected countries in terms confirmed cases and reported deaths.Due to the outbreak of covid-19, there has been a severe downfall in the revenue of different industries.

Lockdowns, travel bans, and business shutdowns have drained the amount of money available with the people and companies, which in turn has restrained the economic flow in the market.The food and beverage industry shutdown and supply chain disruptions due to the lockdown of countries have curbed the supplies of food and beverage products worldwide.

Decrease in the out-of-home consumption has impacted the food and beverage industry figures adversely. The consequence and impact of covid-19 in Asia Pacific is worse and can cause further negative impacts depending on the spread of the virus. The government of Asia Pacific is taking possible steps to reduce its effects by announcing lockdown, and thus, impact the revenue generated by the market. The prolonged duration of the COVID-19 would drastically impact the regions airports connectivity and economic sustainability, significantly restricting them from achieving previously forecasted growth prospects. Such closures are anticipated to negatively impact market growth in the coming period. As per data, China has the highest number of COVID -19 confirmed cases.

The overall Asia Pacific blood meal market size has been derived in accordance to both primary and secondary source.To begin the research process, exhaustive secondary research has been conducted using internal and external sources to obtain qualitative and quantitative information related to the Asia Pacific blood meal market.

Also, multiple primary interviews have been conducted with industry participants and commentators to validate data, as well as to gain more analytical insights into the topic. The participants who typically take part in such a process include industry expert such as VPs, business development managers, market intelligence managers, and national sales managers along with external consultants such as valuation experts, research analysts, and key opinion leaders specializing in the Asia Pacific blood meal market.Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05934766/?utm_source=GNW

About ReportlinkerReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place.

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Veganism in Japan: "Small Vegan-Friendly Businesses are Appearing so Quickly it’s Hard to Keep Up" – vegconomist – the vegan business…

Posted on July 28, 2020 by Prof Baldwin

nito-stock.adobe.com

The Japan Times has recently reported a surge in plant-based and vegan-friendly food services across the country. A limited study shown by Vegewel suggests the number of vegans more than doubled from 1 % in 2017 to 2.1 % in 2019. The Vegan Society reports that in 2019 the UK had less than this figure at 1.16%.

Meat-heavy steakhouses and other eateries are becoming more vegan friendly. Smaller cafes are emerging that cater to plantbased diets and notably in vegan bakeries there has been a marked increase in veganised options; Japanese staples such as bread often contain milk powder, now being veganised, for example in the popular Shokupan bread.

Many Japanese foods might appear to be vegan; rice, vegetables and seaweed dishes are widely consumed but often contain fish powder. However, the market appears to be updating rapidly, to such a degree The Japan Times notes that small vegan-friendly businesses are appearing so quickly its hard to keep up.

The Happy Cow has 441 vegan specific eateries listed in Japan with 144 of those in Tokyo, a city which has seen a new generation of vegan bakeries and cafes arriving onto its cosmopolitan scene this spring including the 1110 Cafe and Bakery in Kawaguchi, Saitama. 1110 offers a wide selection of vegan bread including the Anpan, which is a fluffy Koppepan roll filled with rich coconut-based vegan butter and Anko (red bean). According to Japan Travel, the cafe also offers several creative to-go lunchbox options, which are all priced at 1,110 (under a euro).

According to the Japan Times, major chains are also adapting, with curry chain Coco Ichibanya adding a permanent vegan menu, as well as ramen chain Kyushu Jangara, and massive ramen provider Kagetsu Arashi temporarily brought back its veggie ramen, gyza dumplings and fried rice for the first time in six years. Also as we reported in March, Japans biggest burger chain Mos Burger added its vegan Green Burger to its menu across the country to great success.

Saiko Ohsara, owner of Universal Bakes and Cafe, stated: Although slowly, Tokyo is becoming a much more diverse place like major European capitals, New York or Melbourne. With all these people with different food cultures coming together, the need for inclusive options like vegan food is much higher than before.

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Veganism in Japan: "Small Vegan-Friendly Businesses are Appearing so Quickly it's Hard to Keep Up" - vegconomist - the vegan business...

Redefining the status quo in healthcare – The Business Times

Posted on July 28, 2020 by Prof Baldwin

When Dean Ho looks into the future, he sees a world where more people have access to higher quality healthcare at lower costs. Some may call him an optimist, but the research director is in a better position than most to believe in this somewhat utopian vision.

As director at a research institute that is personalising patient care and using digital medicine to usher in a new frontier of healthcare, Dr Ho is leading efforts to develop artificial intelligence (AI)-based solutions to design clinical trials for various purposes, including novel drug development and more recently, formulating optimal drug combinations to treat the Covid-19 virus.

Dr Ho, 41, who moved to Singapore with his family from the United States in 2018, says: "We are working hard to scale the validation, deployment, and implementation of our AI-based platforms.

"One of our major goals is to demonstrate that we can dramatically reduce the cost of optimal drug combination development, with orders of magnitude reduction in costs and bringing AI-optimised treatment outcomes to patients years faster, particularly in the area of oncology. We are excited about what's on the horizon."

His team has been using a platform called IDentif.AI to determine optimal combination therapies that can be clinically-administered to treat Covid-19 patients. "From our first studies, we were able to identify an extensive list of possible combinations, ranked based on their efficiency at countering infection from a patient-derived SARS-CoV-2 live virus."

This list enables clinicians to select potential combinations that may or may not contain certain drugs due to drug shortages or a patient's pre-existing conditions. "This allows for a substantial level of actionability and versatility for clinicians, as they have a broad spectrum of treatment options," he explains.

The response has been encouraging so far. Already, multiple clinical communities across the globe have reached out to his team for their results, which have provided helpful guidance.

The team ultimately aims to work with multiple partners to develop IDentif.AI-pinpointed combinations based on a large collection of potential therapies. They also plan to develop a public database of these combinations for the benefit of the community. "In the event we need additional combinations in the future, we will be ready," he says.

Curating precision treatments

Dr Ho's pandemic-related work is just part of his broader mission to leverage technologies such as AI and nanotechnology to create precision and personalised medicine for the benefit of patients.

One of his more notable achievements is the creation of Curate.ai, an AI platform developed over about five years by a research team led by Dr Ho. As each individual's response to medication is unique and changing, Curate.ai uses a patient's data - such as how a tumour changes in size following a certain drug dosage - to generate a profile that is able to recommend the optimal drug dosage for this person at any point in time.

This method of dosing is designed to improve the efficacy and safety of treatments.

In 2018, Curate.ai's recommended drug dosage for a prostate cancer patient successfully reduced the size of his tumour. According to Dr Ho, his team's AI solutions are unique in that they use actual experimental data from studies to optimise the right drugs and doses. As a result, these platforms have already been taken to the clinic for multiple studies, he reveals.

"Importantly, by rapidly optimising how we develop these treatments or administer these treatments, we have an opportunity to markedly accelerate the delivery of these optimised therapies to patients, potentially reducing the cost of care while realising substantially improved treatment outcomes. Of note, our AI platforms can be broadly deployed against a broad spectrum of disease indications, so that we can continue to help as many patients as possible," he says.

Going big with nanotech

Dr Ho is also a pioneer in nanomedicine, with his team spearheading the use of nanoscopic "diamonds" that carry drugs to diseased cells in the body to treat cancer. Together with collaborators, they also developed a magnetic resonance imaging agent that dramatically improves imaging brightness, substantially reducing the amount of imaging agent required.

"Nanotechnology is exciting because the materials that we use are versatile and can be coated with a broad spectrum of therapies as well as imaging agents, and these nanomaterials can often markedly improve the efficiency and safety of drug treatment or imaging efficiency," explains Dr Ho.

For his AI-related work in personalised and precision medicine, as well as in the areas of nanomedicine, Dr Ho was the only Singapore-based academic inventor elected in 2018 as a fellow of the United States National Academy of Inventors, the highest professional accolade for academic inventors.

"I'm hoping that our aspirations of redefining the status quo in healthcare, and making practice-changing advances in medicine will have helped as many people as possible."

Family inspiration

One of Dr Ho's clinical trials was a collaborative project with his father focused on optimising drug therapy for liver transplant patients to prevent organ rejection.

"We were able to use AI to recommend appropriate dosages, but not only that, we could see an immediate and real benefit: patients could be discharged from intensive care up to a month earlier," he says.

"It was amazing to work with my dad to realise these outcomes for patients."

Indeed, the father of two aligns his work closely with how he views family. "We're often approached by families and communities who need help for a loved one.

"As a father, I want my children to know I'll always be there to help them when they need it. That's the same hope I have for the technologies we've developed."

Dr Ho was born and raised in Los Angeles and attended the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), graduating with a PhD in biomedical engineering. Before relocating to Singapore in 2018, he spent six years as a professor at UCLA.

His parents had migrated to the United States to pursue their education, and he learnt from them the importance of using one's achievements to give back to society. His father was a career innovator in various fields, from biomedical to aerospace engineering, and treated his team as family, while his mother is a gifted artist and speaker.

"My parents were a huge inspiration for me growing up. Both of my parents inspired me to give back to the community, and being surrounded by their diverse strengths has been amazing," he says.

His experiences growing up also taught him the importance of fostering a close-knit team at work, and being a responsible and nurturing parent and husband. He describes his son Ethan as an inquisitive child who adores sharks and all marine creatures, while his daughter is free-spirited and creative. He met his wife, Sarah Ahn, in college when both of them were pursuing biomedical doctorates, although she would later switch careers to study fashion design and establish her own label, NAMI.

It takes a village

Several months after the family moved to Singapore, Dr Ho's wife was diagnosed with a brain tumour. "After my wife's diagnosis, I was completely and utterly lost. I'm usually the one who knows what's next, because that's what I do. Now we were on the other side."

Thankfully, with the help of their community, Sarah was able to recover. "It takes a community to weather adversity. The minute we found out about Sarah's diagnosis, I was on the phone with so many people who went on to collectively play a role in saving her life and getting her back on her feet.

"We were away from our immediate family, but our community of supporters became a new family for us. We are so deeply grateful for that," he recalls.

Dr Ho believes that community will also be key in achieving his goal of advancing healthcare, as it will take a collective effort from different stakeholders in the sector's ecosystem. "Our team strongly believes that technology alone won't markedly advance healthcare. It takes the seamless integration of multiple disciplines and skill sets."

He notes that a key challenge in his work is to pair the AI platforms his team has developed with stakeholders that will play a vital role in ensuring that they can be integrated into healthcare workflows.

This includes doctor and nursing teams, healthcare economists, behavioural scientists, regulators, payer and reimbursement communities, as well as the patients and patient advocacy groups, among many others.

He cites these partners, as well as his own team members, as inspirations. "I consider this community my family, and collaborating with them has been an honour. Our work together is a mutual learning experience, and it has taken mutual inspiration to bring us to the point where we are now seeing the promise of clinical impact."

Leaving a legacy

While Dr Ho is well on his way to making a mark in the healthcare world, he is also focused on crafting a legacy that is far more personal in nature; and that is to ensure that his children have the means to achieve their own dreams.

He says: "To me, legacy planning means having the foresight to think ahead and provide peace of mind for our future generations so that they won't have to worry about not having the necessary means to support their aspirations. In the case of our children, we want to solidify their access to the financial means for limitless educational goals."

Crafting a legacy across generations

WHETHER it's as bold as changing the future of healthcare, or as intimate as giving your loved ones the means to realise their dreams, there are many paths to crafting one's legacy.

Whatever form it takes, your legacy is a testimony that deserves to live on.

At Opus by Prudential, we understand that it sometimes takes a community to help you make a lasting impact. That's why we offer you seamless support and services to take care of your wealth planning and protection needs - from VIP medical services at one of Singapore's finest healthcare clinics to swift underwriting and dedicated case management, plus access to our panel of value-added services advisors.

Dr Dean Ho is one client who has experienced the exceptional support that Opus professionals can provide. "When my wife, Sarah, was diagnosed with a brain tumour, our family's shock was extraordinarily disorienting. Estella, our Opus Financial Consultant, was one of the very first people we spoke to," recalls Dr Ho. "Her being there for us in the very beginning was an amazing source of security for us. She helped us navigate the process of preparing our documents, but most of all, she became family during the process.

"She was always accessible, and would often check in with us to ask if there was any way that she could help."

With our tailored expertise, Opus by Prudential can help you uniquely plan and preserve your wealth, protect your assets, safeguard your health and retire with ease. No matter what path you take, or how you wish to be remembered, we can help you forge a legacy that will make its mark across generations.

Find out more about legacy planning from an Opus by Prudential Private Wealth Consultant

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Redefining the status quo in healthcare - The Business Times

Healthy Living: Right tools for the job | News | dailyindependent.com – The Independent

Posted on July 28, 2020 by Prof Baldwin

Regardless of how it might seem at times, life is not a static existence. Change is the one constant we all experience throughout the stages of life.

Our bodies grow and age, and as we progress, we learn new skills and gain new abilities such as speech and mobility. We learn to do things either through necessity or intent, and our bodies and minds respond based on the demands we place upon them. Some of these things have short- or long-term benefits both mentally and physically, whereas others result in negative effects.

Apart from what we consciously or even subconsciously do, our bodies themselves have a certain degree of programming, so to speak. The human heart is programmed to beat, to pump and return blood throughout our circulatory system, without any deliberate effort on our part. Lungs will expand and draw in oxygen, food is digested, and there is a steady undercurrent of communication between our brains and the rest of our body to which we are blissfully unaware.

Something so simple as sweating, or our bodys reaction to temperature, arent things we need to or can control. Our skin even quietly replaces itself about every seven years and we dont consciously notice the process.

But all of these things are interconnected and interdependent. Simply put, what we are doing directly impacts the effectiveness of our bodys programming, and our bodys programming directly affects what we are able to do, or at least our predisposition toward the ease or difficulty of certain things. When speaking of health our health it is important to understand at least the basics of how both our active and passive bodies operate and interact with each other. A good place to begin is the understanding that rather than needing to build ourselves from scratch, so to speak, our focus should be more on maintenance or improvement.

When we consider health from the perspective of maintenance or improvement, the concept becomes much easier to manage. But maintenance requires a wide variety of tools, some of which are crucial in our earliest years, and some that change over time. Some of us will be fortunate enough to need fewer tools to manage our health and some might need a good deal more. Some might even require certain specialized tools to maintain their level of good health, but all of us will need at least a few of the basic ones.

At birth, the most crucial tools in our toolboxes are our parents. They see to our external needs while our infant bodies begin operating on programming. Parents ideally either have or can learn the basic skills required to care for an infant and help it grow toward maturity. Parents (or primary caregivers) have access to the resources that will not only help their young charges grow, but also prevent early physical and/or emotional damage which impedes or damages that growth. As we age, we develop the ability through learning to add personal tools to our toolbox. Experience, research, or simply trial and error can provide valuable insight to maintaining our personal health.

Beyond their guardianship, parents and their parents, and so on, provide crucial insights to future health issues. Many things (both positive and negative) are hereditary. A family health history can help us avoid certain things that have caused health problems in our families, or at least alert us to the need of be vigilant against the occurrence of those things. Knowledge of a family history of diabetes, even if the occurrence skipped a generation, could possibly allow for lifestyle changes to prevent it or lessen its effects.

Research can be a powerful tool in maintaining good health. In the information age, there is a staggering amount of information available about even rare health conditions. All one needs to do is open a web browser and type in whatever concern they might have. Although valuable, the difficulty here is that not all information presented in this format is accurate; some are extremely inaccurate and simply a vehicle to sell cures that are ineffective or even dangerous. Most information that comes from a major hospital or accredited organization is a good starting point, however.

Obviously, the most effective tool we can keep in our health toolbox is our local health provider. Health providers such as doctors, nurses and other health professionals have both the credentials and vested interest in helping us maintain our health. An added bonus is health care providers also have the knowledge to help us better use the other tools at our disposal. Telling a health care provider our family health history, for instance, allows them to better improve our health and possibly prevent future problems.

It is essential to use all the tools at our disposal properly, and to maximum effect. A jackhammer is seldom needed to plant a flower, after all, nor would a screwdriver be ideal to remove a nail. But unfortunately, in an era of misinformation and unqualified advice, maintaining our health has become much more confusing than it ever should be.

This section is dedicated to healthy living, and to that end if you have a question about a medical condition or health concern, email us at cromans@dailyindependent.com and we will provide you with the best possible answers from dependable sources. And if you are a dependable source providing health care and would like to offer information on a problem you believe needs addressed for public benefit, please email us as well.

Our goal is a healthy community, and we can get there together.

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.

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Healthy Living: Right tools for the job | News | dailyindependent.com - The Independent

A Quest For Wellness Offer Flowers and Plants as Solutions – PerishableNews

Posted on July 28, 2020 by Prof Baldwin

Photo courtesy United Supermarkets, Lubbock, TX.

If celebrating American Grown Flowers helps consumers enjoy more flowers in July, then go for it but keep the promotional spirit going for the next 11 months.

In all 50 states July is American Grown Flowers month as designated for the fourth consecutive year by the United States Senate. This movement is wonderful because it brings about awareness of flowers and plants and encourages celebration. Flower farmers can be applauded for their contributions to summer tables adorned with blooms and cut greens grown in our 244-year-old country.

As a California-based farm we have always celebrated American Grown Flowers month with excitement, but this year has been more meaningful than ever. As Americans remain under quarantine many are realizing the importance of nurturing their mental and physical health. They are discovering what we have been sharing for years fresh flowers make you happy!, says Lane DeVries, CEO and head grower, The Sun Valley Group, in Arcata, CA.

Massive displays will likely be created featuring the American Grown logo. The organization behind the origin-based label is Certified American Grown Flowers in Santa Barbara, CA. Consumers will grab a piece of modern-day Americana as they purchase, share or take home bouquets, cut greens and potted plants featuring the American Grown logo.

We are supporting American Grown promotion, says Bradley Gaines, business director of floral for United Supermarkets based in Lubbock, TX. We need some positive vibes right now, and we are doing our best at bringing flowers and happiness to our guests.

This is good. This promotion is beneficial for all for the economy and as a health and wellness boost for people enjoying the flowers. But a point for retailers to remember is, just as in produce, floral consumption promotion is a year-round endeavor. Retailers will bring about awareness with the July promotion and engage consumers, but after that, there are 11 more months when retailers can continue customer engagement by offering and promoting flowers and plants as wellness elements for healthy living.

Remember The 5 A Day Program?

When the Produce For Better Health Foundation (PBH) was formed in 1991 to serve as co-sponsor of the 5 A Day for Better Health program, there was no clause in that encouragement that the consumables had to be American grown. The idea was to bring about awareness of the health benefits of consuming more fruits and vegetables.

In 2007, a new brand identity was formed called Fruits & Veggies More Matters. The message remained focused on the nutritional benefits of consuming fruits and veggies. Again, there was no stipulation the produce consumed was required to be grown in America.

Since launching in 2019, the Have A Plant campaign continues to create consumer awareness on the health benefits of consuming fruits and vegetables. The PBH operational statement continues as: Committed to helping people enjoy happier, healthier lives by eating more fruits and vegetables every day.

To share the produce story and educate consumers about healthy eating, promotional spotlights are often shone on farms, field workers and packing crews. Down-to-earth salutes are offered to growers, truckers and produce clerks. With this approach, seen online and in stores, consumers are alerted and engaged, which is meaningful as consumers indicate interest in the origin of items they consume and enjoy.

The time is right for more of these stories in floral. Make the connection between flower farmers and the floral products sold in your stores. Provide customers with interesting content about the flower farms, including what is grown, who works there and what the journey involves when transporting the flowers from field to vase.

Globally Grown Domestically Enjoyed

In Produce, ripe summer cherries can thrill consumers who seek the first summer sweetness as a traditional step they enjoyed at home long ago. They also might shop for summer sweet corn to launch backyard barbecue season. And those occasions also mean the search for juicy peaches is on. Seasons in Produce cause shoppers to become seekers. This happens in Floral as well.

Floral retailers in the United States know the value of enticing customers with global offerings. When the pandemic lockdown prevented shipments of Ranunculus from Italy and other offshore blooms, there indeed were plenty of disappointed shoppers who could not purchase their favorite seasonal delights. Disappointment was internationally experienced.

The point is, as in Produce, consumers have become suitably spoiled by the ease of access to global inventory of flowers grown in different hemispheres with different seasons. This is good because, as we all know, enjoying flowers and plants provides our minds and bodies with health benefits, which many significant studies have well reported.

Enjoyment may be the focus but the subliminal message trying to turn mainstream is that enjoying flowers and plants can boost self-care no matter where the plants are grown. But promotion is still needed in the U. S. to encourage consumers to purchase flowers and plants on a regular basis. Were not Europe. Its not yet typical in our culture to include flowers and plants in our weekly shopping trip. But this current environment of certain uncertainty seems to have caused a noticeable quest for tranquility and immunity.

Evaluate Local Cues

For supermarkets, mass markets and club stores navigating this pandemic-related new phase of shopping, floral management will want to pay attention to the heightened interest in products that can boost immunity. Because it aligns with floral department offerings, take notice of the increase in orange juice and citrus sales and direct customer interest in health.

Savvy retailers track produce department sales as a method of defining the emerging shopping patterns by in-store consumers and those ordering online to be fulfilled by insta shoppers for curbside pickup or delivery. Include floral when evaluating department-wide metrics to determine next level strategies.

Outside of stores, shifts in local real estate sales can provide clues to what floral department products are likely to be desired. Is there a surge of available condos on the market as consumers are seeking homes with outdoor space? In many regions, condo dwellers have become tired of the cooped-up feeling during the pandemic and have purchased single-family homes featuring private yards or patios. If the local single-family home sale numbers indicate a significant change, be prepared for an even greater uptick in sales of patio gardening products. Home buyers seeking living options with access to at least a private balcony will want plants and more to create tranquil outdoor spaces.

Maybe the pandemic will be credited, but now is the time to take Floral seriously and to unreservedly offer flowers and plants to customers seeking health and wellness throughout the year.

Anyone who has had a bouquet of fresh flowers in their home knows anecdotally that fresh flowers are a mood booster, says Lane DeVries, CEO and head grower at The Sun Valley Group in Arcata, CA. He adds, Scientific research has demonstrated that flowers can relieve stress, increase happiness and help make intimate connections with others all things that we need now more than ever.

Rocket Farms in Half Moon Bay, CA, is one of the largest growers of indoor flowers, fresh-cut herbs and potted culinary edibles in the United States. A company profile video on the website follows an underlying Grown for better living theme and presents the plants and people that make up the Rocket Farms team. Jason Kamimoto, senior vice president of marketing, indicates the new video is one level of spreading the word about healthy living with plants.

Retailers can link to Rocket Farms website and share the following health and wellness messages with store customers. Credit is provided for each wellness statement.

Relaxation: the presence of plants in a room has been shown to lower blood pressure, heart rate, anxiety and fatigue. Credit: Seong-Hyun Park & Richard H. Mattson. Journal of Hort Technology.

Productivity: Plants improve concentration and creativity. Men and women demonstrate more innovative thinking in settings with plants and flowers. Credit: Dr. Charlie Hall, Ellison Chair. Texas A&M University.

Connection: Men and women who receive plants and flowers felt an increase in feelings of kindness and compassion. Credit: Jeannette Haviland-Jones, PhD. Rutgers University. pb

Protein Engineering Market To Reach USD 4.77 Billion By 2027 | Reports And Data – PR Newswire UK

Posted on July 28, 2020 by Prof Baldwin

- The increasing research in protein engineering and rising government funding for new drug discovery are expected to be some major drivers for the market

- Market Size USD 1.86 Billion in 2019, Market Growth CAGR of 12.3%, Market Trends The growing research institutions across developing economies is expected to fuel the market in the forecast period

NEW YORK, July 28, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the current analysis of Reports and Data, theProtein Engineering marketwas valued at USD 1.86 billion in 2019 and is expected to reach USD 4.77 billion by the year 2027, at a CAGR of 12.3%. Protein engineering is the process of conception and production of unnatural polypeptides, which is achieved through the modification of different amino acid sequences that are found in nature. With the wide application of protein engineering, various synthetic protein structures and functions can now be designed completely using a computer and produced in the laboratory using various methods.

With the advent of technology, the rising demand is expected to provide traction to the market. For instance, computational protein design holds a potential promise to revolutionize protein engineering. Protein engineering is significantly in demand as it can develop useful or valuable proteins. It is known to be an emerging research field that helps researchers in understanding protein folding and recognition used for protein design principles. Protein engineering market is spurred by various reasons such as availability of immense information regarding 3D protein structure, advancement in structural bioinformatics, novel protein design algorithms, and other factors that have made it possible to use computational approaches for research and development in protein engineering. Strategic utilization of approaches that have been discovered with research has enabled better stability and increased catalytic activity of the protein. Moreover, it has increased its applicability in various fields that will further expand the market. Protein engineering has also evolved to become a potent tool contributing considerably to the developments in both synthetic biology and metabolic engineering. The rising funding for synthetic biology by governments and other healthcare institutions may drive the industry extensively in the future. Furthermore, substantial ongoing research in the drug discovery process is expected to fuel the market during the forecast period. Growing technological advancements and innovative instruments useful for protein engineering may drive the market extensively in the future. The emergence of new diseases due to microorganisms may also trigger market growth.

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However, factors such as high cost of instrumentation and lack of skill professional may hamper the protein engineering industry in the forecast period.

COVID-19 Impact:

WHO is focused on the latest scientific findings and knowledge on COVID-19. Various researchers and scientists are discovering new ways to tackle COVID-19 infection. Furthermore, the market of protein engineering is also going to get significantly affected due to the multiple kinds of research which are being carried out in this field. With the advent of technology, improving protein stability is an essential goal for clinical and industrial applications, however no commonly accepted and widely used strategy for efficient engineering is known. Furthermore, during the COVID-19 outbreak, protein engineering market is significantly impacted because many of the procedures involve lab automation. Market players are focusing on a research-based approach that will provide traction to the market. For instance, Vir Biotech identified two antibodies that could be effective in preventing and treating COVID-19. However, the high requirement of funds is expected to hamper the market during this period.

To identify the key trends in the industry, click on the link below:https://www.reportsanddata.com/report-detail/protein-engineering-market

Further key findings from the report suggest

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For the purpose of this report, Reports and Data has segmented the Protein Engineering market on the basis of product, type, technology, end use and region:

By Product Outlook (Revenue in Million USD; 2017-2027)

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Protein Engineering Market To Reach USD 4.77 Billion By 2027 | Reports And Data - PR Newswire UK

Tracked the behavior of nanoparticles in the body – FREE NEWS

Posted on July 28, 2020 by Prof Baldwin

Nanoparticles are actively used in medicine for diagnostics as contrast agents, as well as for the treatment of various diseases. However, the development of many new multifunctional nanoagents is hindered by the difficulty of monitoring their fate in the body. A collaboration of scientists, which included specialists from the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, has developed a new non-invasive method for monitoring nanoparticles in the bloodstream, which has a high temporal resolution. The method made it possible to establish the main regularities that affect the life of particles in the bloodstream and seem promising for the development of more effective nanoagents for biomedical applications.

The results are published in the Journal of Controlled Release. Clinical applications of any nanoparticles require an accurate analysis of their behavior in the body, especially the residence time of nanoparticles in the bloodstream. It is this parameter that determines whether the nanoparticles will have time to spread throughout the body, reach their therapeutic target (for example, a tumor), and contact it. In addition, an unnecessarily long circulation time can be harmful, as it can lead to the accumulation of particles in healthy tissues and, accordingly, increase their side toxicity.

The circulation of nanoparticles in the bloodstream is studied today mainly using various methods of taking blood samples and analyzing the content of nanoagents in it. The problem with such methods is that often particles are removed from the bloodstream very quickly, sometimes even in a few minutes, and the researcher has time to take only 2-3 blood samples, which is not enough for a full analysis, comments Maxim Nikitin, co-author of the article, head of the laboratory nanobiotechnology MIPT.

In addition, the very procedure of sequential blood sampling brings stress to the body and can indirectly affect the circulation of nanoparticles. New non-invasive methods of tracking the fate of nanoparticles in the body are in great demand for the development of nanomedicine.

The authors of the work scientists from the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, the Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the A.M. Prokhorov Institute of General Physics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the Moscow Engineering Physics Institute and the Sirius University applied the previously developed inductive magnetic particle quantification method (MPQ from English magnetic particle quantification) for non-invasive measurements of particle dynamics in blood.

To do this, they placed the tail of animals, mice or rabbits, into the magnetic coil of the device, then injected particles into the blood and monitored their concentration in the tail veins and arteries in real-time. Similar measurements can be carried out on a person, for example, by measuring particles with a magnetic coil in the hand or at the fingertips.

Studies have shown that the method used makes it possible to non-invasively register the kinetics of particles in the bloodstream, unique in terms of information content, and much easier than classical approaches. This allowed a detailed study of what could influence the behavior of particles in the bloodstream of animals. The researchers studied three groups of factors: the properties of the particles, the peculiarities of their introduction, and the state of the animals body.

Small negatively charged nanoparticles injected in high doses stayed in the bloodstream longer. In addition, it was found that if particles are injected into the blood several times in a row, the circulation of subsequent doses of particles is significantly prolonged.

Similar situations can occur in clinical practice, when a person is first injected with nanoagents that increase MRI contrast (magnetic particles), and then with therapeutic nanoparticles, for example, liposomes with drugs. We have shown that particles can influence each other, and this can be important in therapy, comments Ivan Zelepukin, the first author of the article and a junior researcher at the Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences and MIPT.

An extremely important aspect turned out to be the state of the organism into which the particles are introduced. Thus, the circulation in mice of different genetic lines could differ several times, and the difference was observed only for small 50-nm particles, and not for larger nanoagents. In addition, if the animal had a developed tumor, the nanoparticles began to be removed from the blood faster, and the faster, the larger the volume of the cancerous tumor.

These facts in the work are associated with dynamic changes in the immune system and its greater ability to recognize foreign substances during the development of pathology. Usually, such information about the state of the body was previously ignored in experiments, therefore, with their results, the authors draw attention to the need to open this Pandoras box for the optimal design of nanodrugs.

Originally posted here:
Tracked the behavior of nanoparticles in the body - FREE NEWS

NeoGenomics Reports Revenue of $87 Million in the Second Quarter amid COVID-19 Pandemic – Stockhouse

Posted on July 28, 2020 by Prof Baldwin

Second-Quarter 2020 Results and Highlights:

FORT MYERS, FL / ACCESSWIRE / July 28, 2020 / NeoGenomics, Inc. (NASDAQ:NEO) (the "Company"), a leading provider of cancer-focused genetics testing services, today announced its second-quarter results for the period ended June 30, 2020.

"As expected, second quarter financial results were challenging due to the global COVID-19 crisis, which reduced both revenue and earnings," said Douglas M. VanOort, Chairman and CEO of NeoGenomics.

"Even in the midst of this pandemic, we made several strategic moves and invested in our business. We fortified our balance sheet with a successful offering of both common stock and convertible securities, we strategically invested in Inivata for access to liquid biopsy and minimal residual disease testing capabilities, we launched a suite of liquid biopsy tests, we moved forward with investments to further globalize our Pharma Services business, and we built and operationalized a high-capacity COVID-19 testing laboratory. We believe these investments will deliver both near-term and long-term growth, and that we exited the second quarter in a stronger competitive position for the future."

Second-Quarter Results

Consolidated revenue for the second quarter of 2020 was $87 million, a decrease of 14% over the same period in 2019. Clinical Services revenue decreased year-over-year by 17% to $74 million driven by a clinical test volume(1) decrease of 18%. Average revenue per clinical test ("revenue per test") remained stable at $351. Pharma Services revenue grew by 3% to $13 million compared to the second quarter of 2019, primarily due to the January 10, 2020 acquisition of the Oncology Division assets of Human Longevity, Inc. ("HLI - Oncology"). While disruptions in volume stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic reduced growth in both Divisions, there was steady improvement throughout the quarter.

Gross profit was $28.0 million, a decline of 42.8%, compared to the second quarter of 2019. This reduction was the result of the combined effect of lower test volume due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and our decision to retain employees.

Operating expenses increased by $2 million, or 5%, compared to the second quarter of 2019, reflecting investments in informatics, growth initiatives and costs associated with the integration of HLI - Oncology.

Net loss for the quarter was $7 million compared to net income of $2 million for the second quarter of 2019.

Adjusted EBITDA(2) was negative $7 million for the quarter compared to positive $15 million in the second quarter of 2019. Adjusted Net (Loss) Income(2) was a loss of $4 million compared to income of $7 million in the second quarter of 2019.

Cash and cash equivalents, including restricted cash, was $331 million and days sales outstanding ("DSO") was 92 days at the end of the second quarter of 2020 due to the impact of COVID-19 and the distribution of revenue.

(1) Clinical tests exclude requisitions, tests, revenue and costs for Pharma Services and COVID-19 Polymerase Chain Reaction ("PCR") tests.

(2) The Company has provided adjusted financial information that has not been prepared in accordance with GAAP, including Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Net (Loss) Income, and Adjusted Diluted EPS. Each of these measures is defined in the section of this report entitled "Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures." See also the tables reconciling such measures to their closest GAAP equivalent.

Conference Call

The Company has scheduled a webcast and conference call to discuss their first quarter results on Tuesday, July 28, 2020 at 8:30 AM EDT. Interested investors should dial (844) 602-0380 (domestic) and (862) 298-0970 (international) at least five minutes prior to the call. A replay of the conference call will be available until 8:30 AM EDT on August 11, 2020, and can be accessed by dialing (877) 481-4010 (domestic) and (919) 882-2331 (international). The playback conference ID Number is 35578. The webcast may be accessed under the Investor Relations section of our website at http://www.neogenomics.com. An archive of the webcast will be available until 08:30 AM EDT on October 28, 2020.

About NeoGenomics, Inc.

NeoGenomics, Inc. specializes in cancer genetics testing and information services. The Company provides one of the most comprehensive oncology-focused testing menus in the world for physicians to help them diagnose and treat cancer. The Company's Pharma Services Division serves pharmaceutical clients in clinical trials and drug development.

Headquartered in Fort Myers, FL, NeoGenomics operates CAP accredited and CLIA certified laboratories in Fort Myers and Tampa, Florida; Aliso Viejo, Carlsbad, Fresno and San Diego, California; Houston, Texas; Atlanta, Georgia; Nashville, Tennessee; and CAP accredited laboratories in Rolle, Switzerland, and Singapore. NeoGenomics serves the needs of pathologists, oncologists, academic centers, hospital systems, pharmaceutical firms, integrated service delivery networks, and managed care organizations throughout the United States, and pharmaceutical firms in Europe and Asia. For additional information about NeoGenomics, visit http://www.neogenomics.com/

Forward Looking Statements

Certain information contained in this press release constitutes forward-looking statements for purposes of the safe harbor provisions of The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual future results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements as the result of the Company's ability to continue gaining new customers, respond to the effects of the COVID-19 outbreak, offer new types of tests, integrate its acquisitions and otherwise implement its business plan, as well as additional factors discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on February 28, 2020. As a result, this press release should be read in conjunction with the Company's periodic filings with the SEC. In addition, it is the Company's practice to make information about the Company available by posting copies of its Company Overview Presentation from time to time on the Investor Relations section of its website at http://ir.neogenomics.com/.

Forward-looking statements represent the Company's estimates only as of the date such statements are made (unless another date is indicated) and should not be relied upon as representing the Company's estimates as of any subsequent date. While the Company may elect to update forward-looking statements at some point in the future, it specifically disclaims any obligation to do so, even if its estimates change.

For further information, please contact:

NeoGenomics, Inc.

William Bonello Director, Investor Relations (239) 690-4238 (w) (239) 284-4314 (m) bill.bonello@neogenomics.com

NeoGenomics, Inc. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (In thousands)

ASSETS

Cash and cash equivalents

Accounts receivable, net

Inventories

Other current assets

Total current assets

Property and equipment (net of accumulated depreciation of $80,143 and $68,809 respectively)

Operating lease right-of-use assets

Intangible assets, net

Goodwill

Restricted cash, non-current

Prepaid lease asset

Investment in non-consolidated affiliate

Other assets

TOTAL ASSETS

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

Accounts payable and other current liabilities

Short-term portion of financing obligations

Short-term portion of operating leases

Total current liabilities

Long-term portion of financing obligations

Long-term portion of operating leases

Convertible senior notes, net

Deferred income tax liability, net

Other long-term liabilities

Total long-term liabilities

TOTAL LIABILITIES

TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

NeoGenomics, Inc. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (Unaudited) (In thousands, except per share amounts)

NET REVENUE:

Clinical Services

Pharma Services

Total revenue

COST OF REVENUE

GROSS PROFIT

Operating expenses:

General and administrative

Research and development

Sales and marketing

Total operating expenses

(LOSS) INCOME FROM OPERATIONS

Interest expense, net

Other (income) expense, net

Loss on extinguishment of debt

Loss on termination of cash flow hedge

(Loss) income before taxes

Income tax (benefit) expense

NET (LOSS) INCOME

NET (LOSS) INCOME PER SHARE

Basic

Diluted

WEIGHTED AVERAGE COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING

Basic

Diluted

NeoGenomics, Inc. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited) (In thousands)

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

Net loss

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

Depreciation

Loss on disposal of assets

Loss on debt extinguishment

Loss on termination of cash flow hedge

Amortization of intangibles

Amortization of debt issue costs

Amortization of convertible debt discount

Non-cash stock-based compensation

Non-cash operating lease expense

Changes in assets and liabilities, net

Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES

Purchases of property and equipment

Business acquisition

Acquisition working capital adjustment

Investment in non-consolidated affiliate

Excerpt from:
NeoGenomics Reports Revenue of $87 Million in the Second Quarter amid COVID-19 Pandemic - Stockhouse

These Microbes May Have Survived 100 Million Years Beneath the Seafloor – The New York Times

Posted on July 28, 2020 by Prof Baldwin

The South Pacific Gyre is an aquatic nowhere. Its the spot in the sea thats farther from land than any other, so devoid of nutrients, life and even continental dust that its considered the deadest spot in the ocean, said Steven DHondt, a geomicrobiologist at the University of Rhode Island.

Yet some 20,000 feet beneath the surface of this watery desert, microscopic creatures have not only found a way to eke out a living theyve also managed to weather the inhospitality for many millions of years.

In a paper published Tuesday in Nature Communications, Dr. DHondt and his colleagues describe the remarkable revival of a small population of microbes that may have spent the past 101.5 million years ensconced in a slumber under sediments deep below the gyre only to be roused awake in the lab.

If confirmed, these microbes could be among the oldest living organisms ever found. Spawned during a time when the non-avian dinosaurs still stalked the Earth, these hibernating cells might have rested as the continents creaked into their modern configuration, the globes first grasses emerged and our great ape lineage took its first steps toward walking upright.

Such longevity is unlikely, even mathematically impossible within the constraints of some models, said Yuki Morono, a microbiologist at the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology, or Jamstec, and an author of the study: No theoretical microbiology can explain it. But we found it.

Other scientists have unearthed snoozing microbes from harsh environments beneath the seafloor in the past. Crushed by miles of water and mud and starved of food, sunlight and warmth, cells must adapt or perish. Those that adapt can sometimes avoid death by simply teetering on the verge of it.

Scientists think that microbes will grind their metabolism to a near halt so they can make do with the meager motes of food in their environment. Some in the field refer to this strategy as the slow lane of life, said Nagissa Mahmoudi, a geomicrobiologist at McGill University who wasnt involved in the study. Theyre not really thriving. Theyre just hanging on.

But the relative rarity of such cells has made it tough to determine just how long such states of quasi-suspended animation can actually last.

So a team led by Fumio Inagaki, also of Jamstec, set sail into the southern Pacific Ocean in the fall of 2010 and drilled deep into its sediments. Over eons, mud settles in layers like a chronological stack of pancakes, with the newest additions closest to the seafloor; the oldest, some 250 feet under the ocean bottom, had been laid down about 101.5 million years before.

Even Dr. Morono was skeptical of finding life in the most ancient parts of the mucky, nutrient-poor cores the team extracted. Down there, bits of clay are crammed so tightly together that the spaces between them cant even accommodate the full width of a bacterial cell. You are packed into the sediment and cannot move, he said. I cannot even imagine such a harsh environment as a human.

But as he continued to sample backward in time, it became clear that there were microbes all the way down.

The work wasnt easy. To avoid discombobulating the fragile cells too much, Dr. Morono tried to replicate their home environment as best he could. That meant spending up to 10 hours a day working in a room chilled to below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, bundled from head to toe, as he plied the bugs with bits of chemically labeled food.

Dr. Morono expected that after thousands, if not millions, of years stuck in the mud, the microbes would be slow to rise. But within just a few days, some of the groggy germs had started to divide. For nearly two years, the researchers watched their specimens grow; 557 days later, many communities of the teeny troopers were still chugging along.

The microbes newfound vivacity hints that for millions of years, they were just kind of waiting for conditions to improve, said Virginia Edgcomb, a geomicrobiologist at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution who wasnt involved in the study.

Its hard to determine the age of individual cells, Dr. Edgcomb added. Some may be as old as the sediments they once sat in; others may be the progeny of these ancients. Given how spare the microbes diets probably were, Dr. DHondt suspects that reproduction was probably rare. That makes it all the more remarkable that, even after spending millions of years just barely ticking along, the cells were game to sit up and party on, he said.

Even older microbes could still be in yet-untested seafloor sediments, which can be up to 200 million years in age. Future-minded scientists could find these stalwart specimens useful including those involved in the search for extraterrestrial life.

This opens up a whole Pandoras box for where we could find life elsewhere in the universe, Dr. Mahmoudi said. It seems everywhere weve gone, weve found life.

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These Microbes May Have Survived 100 Million Years Beneath the Seafloor - The New York Times

Ingredient Spotlight: Reishi Mushroom, a Superfood that Helps Everything from Your Heart and Blood Pressure to Immunity – One Green Planet

Posted on July 28, 2020 by Prof Baldwin

Reishi mushroom is all over the health world. Most likely, youve seen it stamped across a tin of mysterious superfood powder in the health aisle or listed as an ingredient in your new tincture or elixir. So, whats up with reishi mushroom and why is it so friggin popular?

Well, obviously, reishi mushroom is well a mushroom, but it happens to be one thats got quite a long lineage. In fact, reishi mushroom has been noted in ancient and alternative medicines thousands of years old. This fungi has some powerful health benefits and also happens to be high in those body-loving antioxidants.

Lets take a deep dive into this wonderful ingredient!

tassilo111/Pixabay

Alright, reishi mushroom is a mushroom, but where does it come from and how are you supposed to consume it?

Reishi mushrooms referred to asGanoderma lucidum are most commonly used in Eastern medicines and have been used in traditional medicine practices for more than 2,000 years. As popular as these mushrooms have become in the western world, theyre actually quite rare, growing at the base of deciduous trees, preferring various hot and humid locations in Asia.

As is similar to most plant-based foods, reishi mushrooms contain dietary fiber and various minerals, vitamins, and amino acids, yet what makes these little fungi so special is there high content of polysaccharides, peptides, and triterpenoids, which may be linked to their positive health effects. The most common way of consuming reishi mushroom is in powder form, a dried mushroom that is ground into a powder as well as in supplements, but you can also find reishi mushroom in teas, herbal tonics, elixirs, and tinctures. Of course, if you can get your hand on safely foraged, cleansed, and packagedreishi mushroom, then you can actually consume the mushroom itself.

Theres a reason our forebearers relied on reishi mushroom for many of their alternative medicines. Theres also a good reason why its had a resurgence in the western world. This mushroom is used in superfood mixes and health-boosting tinctures and elixirs due to its powerful health benefits. From giving your immune system and energy supply a boost to increasing heart health and leveling blood sugar levels, reishi mushroom pretty much does it all.

While human studies are limited, there are a few to note that illuminate the positive health powers of this mushroom!

When it comes to boosting your immune system, there are a few studies that have shown how reishi mushroom effects white blood cells, which are critical parts of your immune system.

A study performed in the School of Basic Medical Sciences at Peking University Health Science Center entitledCellular and molecular mechanisms of immuno-modulation by Ganoderma lucidum the scientific name for reishi mushroom found that the immuno-modulating effects of G. lucidum polysaccharides were extensive, including promoting the function of antigen-presenting cells, mononuclear phygocyte system, humoral immunity, and cellular immunity.

On top of that, another study performed at Clemson University here in the U.S. entitled The effects of two different ganoderma species (Lingzhi) on gene expression in human monocytic THP-1 cells found that some forms of reishi may alter inflammation pathways in white blood cells.

With that said, its important to note that both of these studies were performed on those that were already ill. While more research is necessary to substantiate the claim that reishi mushroom boosts the immune system of healthy people, its obvious that the natural agents in the mushroom have a positive effect on those immune system-crucial white blood cells.

The anti-cancer properties of reishi mushroom was slightly touched upon in the studies performed on the immune system, yet theres definitely more to the story.In fact, there are several non-human, test-tube studiesthat have shown that [reishi mushroom consumption] can lead to the death of cancer cells.

The most aggressive evidence for reishis cancer-fighting properties was done in a study at the Hiroshima University Hospital in the Department of Endoscopy entitledA water-soluble extract from culture medium of Ganoderma lucidum mycelia suppresses the development of colorectal adenomas.The study looked at reishis role in preventing or fighting colorectal cancer and found that one year of treatment with reishi decreased the number and size of tumors in the large intestine.

Studies have also found that reishi mushroom may have overall positive benefits for cancer patients including increasing the activity of the bodys white blood cells, which help fight cancer, and improving quality of life in cancer patients.

While reishi mushroom isnt necessarily proven toboost energyit has been well documented to have fatigue-fighting effects.There are two studies in particular that show the fatigue-fighting effects of this mushroom.

The first study performed at the New Zealand Institute of Natural Medicine Research entitled A randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled study of a Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide extract in neurasthenia, examined [reishi mushrooms] effects in 132 people with neurasthenia, a poorly defined condition associated with aches, pains, dizziness, headaches and irritability and found that fatigue was reduced and well-being was improved after [eight] weeks of taking the supplements.

The second study performed at theThird Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University entitledSpore Powder of Ganoderma lucidum Improves Cancer-Related Fatigue in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Endocrine Therapy: A Pilot Clinical Trial found that fatigue was reduced and quality of life was improved after [four] weeks of taking reishi powder in a group of 48 breast cancer survivors.

Cardiovascular health is one of those burgeoning issues that were finding is linked to a variety of other health concerns. Therefore, its more important than ever to make sure youre keeping your heart as healthy as possible!

A small 26-person, a 12-week study performed by the Department of Medicine and Therapeutics at the Chinese University of Hong Kong entitled Study of potential cardioprotective effects of Ganoderma lucidum found that reishi mushroom may increase good HDL cholesterol and decrease triglycerides a type of fat (lipid) found in your blood that are used as energy both of which are indicators of overall heart disease risk.

Blood sugar is linked to a variety of health issues and is also a large indicator of diabetes risk. Much like heart health, its incredibly important to keep blood sugar levels balanced, level, and healthy.

A few studies have shown that reishi mushroom may contain molecules that decrease blood sugar. The human-based studies are preliminary, yet one study published in theInternational Journal of Medicinal Mushroomsdid find some effects of blood sugar regulation in humans.

While a few studies are promising, far more research is necessary to really unravel the mysterious connection between reishi mushroom and blood sugar control.

sweetlouise/Pixabay

While reishi mushroom is known for its health benefits, its also a mushroom meaning its got a toxic component to it, and its known for some unwanted side effects including a few non-urgent such as an upset stomach, skin rashes, and nausea and some very urgent such as liver damage and liver toxicity, chronic diarrhea, blood stool, and nose bleeds.

The issue arises that most of the human-based evidence for reishi mushroom centers around traditional medicine records that are thousands of years old. This makes dosage a bit of a difficult hurdle.

For instance, the Susan G. Komen Foundation notes that reishi mushroom extract is possibly safe for up to [one] year when a person takes it orally. On the other hand, taking powdered reishi mushroom for longer than [one] month may be toxic to the liver. When it comes to dosage, it all depends on the specific product and, of course, your individual bodily needs. Yet, with the risk of liver toxicity, its incredibly important to make sure youre taking this mushroom correctly.

The best way to moderate your reishi mushroom intake is to team up with a health professional of your choosing, whether thats an herbalist, naturopath, dietitian or nutritionist, or your medical doctor. Not only will these professionals be able to moderate how the substance is affecting your body, but they can also be a guide to help you with any challenges your face with reishi mushroom.

Alright, youve spoken with your medical professional and gotten the go-ahead to give reishi mushroom a try, so no what? When looking for a product, first decide how you want to consume the mushroom. Are you a protein shake junkie? Is a simple supplement the easiest? Do you want to give a tincture or elixir a whirl? Once you figure out the method, make sure to look for products that have been certified with care such as certified USDA organic, non-GMO project verified, and, of course, vegan!

Four Sigmatic Reishi Mushroom Elixir/Amazon.com

Four Sigmatic happens to be one of the leading health food supplements when it comes to getting those mysterious and powerful mushrooms into your body safely! This Four Sigmatic Reishi Mushroom Elixir provides a 1,500-milligram dose of organic reishi mushroom to support sleep and promote stress relief. This unique blend incorporates the adaptogen tulsi for stress relief and rose hips and mint for a bit of delightful flavor. This product is vegan, keto, and Whole30-friendly, certified USDA organic, sources its ingredients from natural farms or wild harvesting and is free of carriers, fillers, artificial flavors. One 20-count box costs $21.80.

Micro Ingredients Sustainably US Grown Organic Reishi Mushroom Powder/Amazon.com

If you absolutely love those east-to-make and on-the-go shakes packed with nutrients and energy, then powder reishi is definitely the way to go! This Micro Ingredients Sustainably US Grown Organic Reishi Mushroom Powder offers a 100:1 extract to support a strong cardiovascular system, boost energy endurance, and aid in stress relief. This product is sustainably grown here in the U.S., is certified USDA organic, non-GMO, and contains no additives, preservatives, fillers, or artificial colors. Along with being vegan, this product is also gluten-free! An 8-ounce package costs $23.95.

New Chapter Reishi Mushroom Supplement/Amazon.com

Supplements are probably the easiest way to go when youre trying to get all the nutrients necessary for a healthy body! You can pop them in your purse, hide them in a medicine cabinet, and travel easy. This New Chapter Reishi Mushroom Supplement is not only organic but also 100 percent certified vegan, non-GMO project verified, certified kosher, and gluten-free. This reishi blend aims to support healthy aging by maintaining vitality, longevity, and wellness. A 60-count bottle costs $17.09.

Herb Pharm Reishi Mushroom Liquid Extract Immune System Builder/Amazon.com

Tinctures are a great way to receive a potent dose of those hard to get ingredients that you cant quite cook with. With that said, its always a good idea to be on the lookout for unsafe tinctures, as theyre not highly regulated by the government. This Herb Pharm Reishi Mushroom Liquid Extract Immune System Builder is created by highly-trusted, Oregon-based Herb Pharm, known for their high-quality products. This product is vegan-friendly, certified USDA organic, gluten-free, and non-GMO. The liquid tincture allows for rapid absorption into the body and focuses specifically on building the strength of your immune system. A 1-ounce bottle costs $14.05.

Traditional Medicinals Organic Reishi Mushroom with Rooibos & Orange Peel Herbal Tea/Amazon.com

One of the most popular ways to consume reishi mushroom is via a beverage. Tea is a comforting ritual that you can integrate into your daily routine as a moment of reflection, peace, or simple relaxation. This Traditional Medicinals Organic Reishi Mushroom with Rooibos & Orange Peel Herbal Tea supports the immune system through a blend of sun-kissed citrus earthy notes. This product is non-GMO verified, certified organic, kosher, and caffeine-free. Go bulk with this one! A 6-box pack (16 tea bags apiece) costs only $25.81.

We also highly recommend downloading ourFood Monster App, which is available foriPhone, and can also be found onInstagramandFacebook. The app has more than 15,000 plant-based, allergy-friendly recipes, and subscribers gain access to new recipes every day. Check it out! For more Vegan Food, Health, Recipe, Animal, and Life content published daily, dont forget to subscribe to theOne Green Planet Newsletter! Being publicly-funded gives us a greater chance to continue providing you with high-quality content. Pleasesupport us!

This Is Why Women Live Longer Than Men – Longevity LIVE

Posted on July 28, 2020 by Prof Baldwin

If you dont know by now, its a fact that women live longer than men. Any visit to an old age home will confirm this, and the science backs it up. Indeed, women can expect to live 7.6% longer than men at age 20 years, and 14% longer at age 80 years. You may think this has to do with something genetic or even some more elaborate health programs women embark on. Truth be told, men can learn some simpler and better health habits to live longer if they truly want to.

Women are more likely to visit their doctors for regular check-ups than men. In fact, men have admitted that they would rather be doing household chores, like cleaning toilets, than going to the doctor. This habit is often the difference behind discovering a health issue in its early phases, which will improve the outcome and even save lives.

Well, men face a higher risk of heart attacks, lung disease, and dying from unintentional injuries. Whats more, worldwide, men are more likely to commit suicide than women.

Good question.

It seems obvious that if you prioritize your health you will nip any potential illnesses or conditions in the bud. Yet researchers have confirmed the men are just not good at going to see a doctor. They believe it has to do with stigma and existing norms around masculinity.

Without question, cultural and traditional ideas about masculinity can influence how men perceive and prioritize health issues. In fact, research shows that men who adopt traditional ideas about masculinity often face more barriers to seeking health care.

Traditional ideas about masculinity also can cause men to avoid sharing their emotions and feelings. They fear that they will be perceived as weak if they share their fears and concerns about their mental health.

In fact, women are more likely to seek out care when it comes to their mental health. We are learning more and more that mental health plays a critical role in quality of life.

Since men dont seek help for their mental health issues, theyre also more likely to turn to harmful substances to cope.

This means that men are more likely to die from alcohol-related causes, and they are also more likely to abuse drugs when compared to women.

Most would agree these habits do not lend themselves well to living longer.

Research shows that men who visit the doctor have admitted to not always being honest about their health. They are also more likely to withhold information from their doctors in the past.

In addition to being embarrassed or uncomfortable, men also withhold information from their doctors because they are worried about the potential diagnosis that results might reveal should they tell the truth.

It will save lives. Simple. Its important to go for regular check-ups as this will help the doctor pick up on early warning signs of a more serious condition. Not all diseases have easily recognizable symptoms and this is why regular check-ups are so important. Take prostate cancer for example. If detected early, patients diagnosed with prostate cancer can have a much better prognosis.

Mental health is a real medical concern and men should address their mental health the same way they would any other health condition. Whats more, if they feel that their mental health has been in disarray lately, they need to understand that reaching out and seeking help is not a sign of weakness but rather of absolute strength.

Adopt lifestyle habits can help men maintain their health better. Healthy lifestyle habits include not smoking and regularly exercising for 30 minutes, at least 3 times a week.

Regular screening is a great way for both men and their doctors to have a better understanding of their overall health. That said, men should go for the following regular screening and exams:

A diet high in fiber-rich foods (whole grains, fruits, and vegetables) and low in refined sugar and processed foods is a great way to keep the body healthy. A Mediterranean or DASH diet is the healthiest diet to follow, according to research.

Men should also monitor their alcohol intake and stick to no more than two glasses of alcohol a day.

Men are more prone to accidents than women. This will obviously get in the way of anyones goal to live longer. Perhaps it is because they are more willing to take risks when it comes to activities. Whether it is abseiling off bridges, cycling down mountains, or even as simple as driving a car.

Indeed, research shows deaths from injury in auto-related accidents are more common in men than women. Its important that men be more safety-conscious when they are behind the wheel. They should obey the rules of the road and this includes not driving under the influence, obeying all speed laws, and staying off of their devices when driving.

Mens health is important and regardless of stigma and traditional ideas about masculinity. Men should do their best to always prioritize their health, so they can live longer. They owe it to themselves and to those closest to them.

Men should stop pretending they are not at risk. Click here

References

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This Is Why Women Live Longer Than Men - Longevity LIVE

#TogetherWeWin: inspiring examples of solidarity during the COVID-19 outbreak in eastern Europe and central Asia – UNAIDS

Posted on July 28, 2020 by Prof Baldwin

Inspiring stories of solidarity during the COVID-19 outbreak in eastern Europe and central Asia have been shared by community leaders, businesspeople, celebrities and others. Under the umbrella of #TogetherWeWin, a series of Instagram and Facebook Live talks have shown how people are supporting each other in this difficult time.

The COVID-19 pandemic has become not only a challenge to health care and economies, it has also become a test for social solidarity. We have seen some amazing examples of solidarity and unity in supporting people who are left behind, said Alexander Goliusov, Director, a.i., of the UNAIDS Regional Support Team for Eastern Europe and Central Asia.

Arusik Mkrtchyan, from Armenia, a long-time friend of UNAIDS, spoke with Narine Manukyan, chair of the AI MAYER (Armenian Mother) charity, which helped more than 300 families who lost their livelihoods during the lockdown with food and medicine. I have always believed that charity should support people in a sustainable and long-term way, create opportunities for people to solve their problems by themselves. But in this situation, families with children with disabilities whose parents lost their jobs faced the problem of not having food to eat, said Ms Manukyan. Ms Mkrtchyan also spoke with Hamlet Khnkoyan, who started the Lets Help Families in Need movement, which initially helped several families in his neighbourhood with food supplies but snowballed into supporting more than 600 families.

Olya Tira, the UNAIDS Goodwill Ambassador for the Republic of Moldova, spoke with the blogger Lilu Ogovan, a founder of Together for You, Anna Racu, and Ruslan Poverga, from the Positive Initiative.

Ms Racu spoke about Together for You, which supported medical personnel by providing personal protective equipment and disinfectant, as well as purchasing other medical equipment. Aid was initially provided to ambulance stations, but, over time, hospitals that were looking after patients with COVID-19 were also helped. Mr Poverga said that the Positive Initiative, together with partners, delivered antiretroviral therapy to more than 850 people living with HIV, including 65 Moldovans who were trapped abroad during the lockdown. The crisis forces people to be creative. People stopped thinking in terms of possible and impossible, we just know that it is necessary to do this and thats it, and the question is only how exactly we will achieve what we want. And I am very glad that, thanks to our partners as well, we have succeeded, Mr Poverga said.

In Belarus, there was a live broadcast by Yuri Tkachuk, a singer, television presenter and member of the countrys UNAIDS Red Ribbon Team. UNAIDS Goodwill Ambassador Svetlana Borovskaya, along with television journalist and producer Irina Rombalskaya, as well as representatives of the People Plus community organization, Tatyana Zhuravskaya and Anatoly Leshenok, and Julia Stoke from the Positive Movement, discussed the theory of small actions.

I believe in this theory. Even when it looks like you do not have a lot of time and financial resources, you can still help substantially. For myself, I chose the path of one good deed a day, said Ms Rombalskaya, who is buying food and medicine for older people during the lockdown. Ms Zhuravskaya and Mr Leshenok organized the delivery of antiretroviral therapy and helped Belarusians who were outside the country when the border was closed to obtain antiretroviral therapy.

In Kazakhstan, a Facebook Live stream was hosted by Adele Smith, a television presenter and head of the Charity Warehouse project. She talked to Aruzhan Sain, the Commissioner for Childrens Rights in Kazakhstan and founder of the Volunteer Charity Foundation, which helped children with serious illnesses during the COVID-19 outbreak when, due to the closure of the border, there was a significant shortage of medicines and medical supplies. Volunteers found and purchased medical equipment and medicines and delivered them to childrens hospitals, with the foundation later expanding its work to other medical institutions.

Konstantin Avershin, a businessman and leader of the Im Alma-Ata movement in Kazakhstan, initiated the Who If Not Me challenge, aimed at helping people in need. Assistance was provided in various areas, from the supply of personal protective equipment to doctors to legal support for victims of domestic violence. The challenge brought together 14 cities in Kazakhstan, many volunteer networks operating in the country and the government.

Elena Bilokon, the founder of the Community of Women Living with HIV in Kazakhstan, also joined the broadcast and spoke about her story of supporting people from key populations and about living with HIV in a crisis.

Erkin Ryskulbekov, a UNAIDS Goodwill Ambassador for Kyrgyzstan and television presenter, invited a human rights activist, Gulgaaki Mamasalieva, and Kyrgyzstans triathlon champion, Aivaz Omorkanov, to his Instagram Live feed.

Ms Mamasalieva shared her experience in creating an online forum that brings together most of the countrys volunteer organizations and makes it possible to make a direct request for assistance and receive an immediate response. The forum is based on the Telegram platform and facilitates volunteers communicating with each other during an emergency. We have 10 years of experience in civil monitoring. We know all the standards and requirements for providing such assistance, including how these processes should be organized during emergencies, said Ms Mamasalieva.

Mr Omorkanov spoke about how he managed to complete his triathlon training programme while staying at home under lockdown as well as starting an online fundraising initiative, inviting world sports starts to join him and raise funds to provide personal protective equipment for doctors at the infectious diseases hospital. In total, US$ 6500 was raised. My message was that we can help our country even while staying at home, said Mr Omorkanov. In addition to raising funds, the action had another goalto encourage people to do sports and maintain a healthy lifestyle, even while under lockdown.

Mr Ryskulbekov ended the discussion by saying, When I do charity work and help people, I understand that although my actions are needed by others, Im actually the one who needs it the most; its me who becomes happier by doing good things.

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#TogetherWeWin: inspiring examples of solidarity during the COVID-19 outbreak in eastern Europe and central Asia - UNAIDS

Hydration Therapy Clinic Vida-Flo to Open in Franklin – Williamson Source

Posted on July 28, 2020 by Prof Baldwin

Vida-Flo, a pioneer in the IV Hydration and Vitamin Infusion industry, will open itsnewest location in Franklin on Saturday, Aug. 15 at 1201 Liberty Pike, Suite 102-B.

Vida-Flo is a hydration therapy clinic that helps people achieve the goal of a physically well-conditioned and healthy lifestyle. In celebration of the grand opening weekend, Vida-Flo Franklin is offering everyone a free B12 shot Saturday, Aug. 15. Additionally, anyone who books a service throughout the grand opening weekend will be entered-to-win a free membership.

Its always been a dream of mine to open a second location in Williamson County, said Michael Haley, owner and operator of Vida-Flo Franklin and Vida-Flo Nashville. After four years providing hydration therapy services to the Nashville community through our Midtown clinic, I know there is a need for the same services and more in Franklin. Im excited to be part of this community and grateful for the opportunity to educate our clients about the immediate benefits of our services, especially at a time when staying healthy and well is of the utmost importance.

Vida-Flo aims to be a healthy and helpful problem solver for a variety of goals and medical needs by providing Intravenous (IV) fluids, vitamins, antioxidants, and medications to ensure individuals are fueled, refreshed and hydrated. Its a service that benefits everyone from busy entrepreneurs and on-the-go moms to fitness gurus and world-class athletes. Vida-Flo helps with a variety of medical issues including Crohns disease, migraines, pregnancy and stomach bugs/flu. The hydration therapy business also offers an on-the-go service for those who cant always make it into the clinic, or who prefer to receive services from their home.

IV Hydration helps to improve vitality by immediately and directly relieving illness, boosting energy, and improving physical appearance. Through direct delivery of vitamins, antioxidants and medications, the body absorbs 100 percent of the treatment, as opposed to drinking fluids or taking oral medications where the body only absorbs about 30 percent.

Upon each visit to Vida-Flo, a consultation with a nurse will occur by taking vital signs and assessing medical history. Each consultation will ensure clients are suitable for treatment in order to receive a safe and medically ethical service. Vida-Flo Franklin is overseen by Dr. Howard Aubert, MD.

Haley says, Our team of registered medical professionals is trained to ensure you receive a personalized, effective and medically beneficial service that meets your health and wellness goals. We pride ourselves on teamwork, innovation, client-centricity and excellence at Vida-Flo, and the team is excited to serve a variety of health, wellness and beauty needs at the new Franklin clinic.

Vida-Flo Franklin is the second location to open within the Greater Nashville area. Haley also owns and operates a location in Nashville on Demonbreun Street. Continuing for a limited time, the Franklin-based business will offer their specially priced membership option for either $59/month or $89/month, depending on the number of clinic visits per month. For more information about Vida-Flo Franklin, visit the locations website at vidaflofranklin.com orcall 615-840-6747.

Franklin Grand Opening Details:

To celebrate their grand opening weekend, Vida-Flo Franklin is offering everyone a free B12 shot on Saturday, Aug. 15. Additionally, anyone who books a service throughout the grand opening weekend will be entered-to-win a free membership. The Franklin-based business is also offering founding memberships for either $59/month or $89/month, depending on the number of clinic visits per month. Ongoing, the hydration therapy clinic will offer a robust booking schedule to ensure everyone can prioritize their health, wellness and beauty throughout the year.

In partnership with the Williamson County Chamber, Vida-Flo Franklin will celebrate their official grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, Aug. 19. More details will follow about the celebratory event.

ABOUT VIDA-FLO FRANKLIN:

Vida-Flo is a company that specializes in Intravenous (IV) Hydration and Vitamin Infusion in 10 states across the nation. Within the last nine years, Vida-Flo has provided more than 100,000 treatments to people with health issues ranging from kidney stones to Celiac Disease. The company aims to make hydration an ongoing part of a healthy regimen for any male or female by customizing treatment programs based on a variety of needs and goals. Vida-Flo Franklin is the second location for Franchise Owner Michael Haley. The clinic is located at 1201 Liberty Pike, Suite 102-B, Franklin, Tennessee 37067. For more information, visit vidaflofranklin.com or call 615-840-6747.

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Hydration Therapy Clinic Vida-Flo to Open in Franklin - Williamson Source

Tarek El Moussa Just Marked One Year with Heather Rae Young Meet His Gorgeous Partner – AmoMama

Posted on July 28, 2020 by Prof Baldwin

TV personality Tarek El Moussa, best known for the HGTV show "Flip or Flop," has been in a relationship with his girlfriend Heather Rae Young for one year!

The first time that most of us heard about Tarek El Moussa was in 2013 when "Flip or Flop" debuted. Several aspects of his life have changed a lot in these seven years, including his partner.

TAREK EL MOUSSA AND CHRISTINA ANSTEAD'S DIVORCE

Back then, Tarek was married to Christina Anstead, the co-host of "Flip or Flop." Unfortunately for the former couple, they parted ways in 2016 after an incident so serious that even got the police involved.

Tarek and Christina had a heated discussion at their home. As a way to blow off some steam, he took a gun and went to a hiking trail nearby. Christina was afraid that he could hurt himself, so she called the police.

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For all my makeup lovers - head to @pinkdustcosmetics for the makeup tutorial we did today! EYES: NEW Blushing Bride Palette (on sale tomorrow), Luxury Mascara. Using All About Eyes Brush Set. Brows: Brunette Precision Brow Pencil. FACE: Light/Medium Dual Action Concealer(using Duo Fiber Concealer Brush), Mineral Photo Touch Foundation in Vanilla Cream using Duo Fiber Foundation Brush, Bright Eyes Under Eye Powder, Cream Mineral Powder Foundation, using Large Dome Brush. CHEEKS: Baked Bronzer, Rose Gold Baked Blush, Glisten Highlighter, using Angled Contour/Blush Brush. LIPS: Perfectly Pale Pink Combo. (Guava Liner, Priscilla Lipstick, Pink Puff Plumping Gloss.

A post shared by Christina Anstead (@christinaanstead) on Jul 23, 2020 at 12:18pm PDT

After a while, authorities found the TV personality on the mountainside unhurt. He then admitted that he only took the gun with him to protect himself from any wild animals.

Christina and Tarek got divorced in 2018, but luckily for the sake of their two children, they have kept an amicable relationship. They even continue working together on their show.

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Growing up in Buena Park, California as far back as I can remember, I wanted to be successful! I constantly saw nice, expensive things that I wanted, but I realized I didnt have the tools and resources I needed to have nice things of my own one day. It felt like every day from that point forward, my obsession with financial success intensified more and more. I wanted to prove to everyone around me that I could amount to something. At one point, it was all I could think about. My definition of success was simple: someone with the money to buy whatever they wanted. But as you start to build wealth, you start to realize that the age old saying money doesnt buy happiness is actually true, as much as I didnt want to believe it. Sure, money can make life easier, it can open up a few doors for you, and it sure can be fun to invest but it isnt the only thing that matters in life. Never stop working hard, and pushing for your goals, but dont get too wrapped up obsessing over a number in your bank account that you forget to measure the other parts of your life that truly make you successful like friendships, health, time with your family, and making memories of incredible experiences! What does success mean to you?

A post shared by Tarek El Moussa (@therealtarekelmoussa) on Jul 21, 2020 at 2:12pm PDT

TAREK'S CURRENT GIRLFRIEND, HEATHER RAE YOUNG

Both of them have moved on already. Christina is currently married to English TV presenter Ant Anstead. In September 2019, the couple welcomed their son, Hudson.

Tarek, on the other hand, is currently in a relationship with Heather Rae Young, a former Playboy Playmate and TV personality best known for the Netflix series "Selling Sunset."

The first rumors about a possible romance between Heather and Tarek were spread all over the internet in July 2019 when they were spotted on a yacht kissing each other.

In August that year, he made their relationship Instagram official, emphasizing that he spent three years on his own before finally finding his "beautiful, sweet, and talented" girlfriend.

From that point on, things moved fairly quickly. Within a month, Heather Rae Young and Tarek El Moussa gave their first joint interview, met each other's fathers, and he bought her a Ferrari.

Tarek's children have also met Heather already, and the couple has shared some photos of their meetings on their respective Instagram accounts.

HEATHER RAE YOUNG'S CAREER BEFORE "SELLING SUNSET"

In May 2020, Heather shared some details about how her participation in Playboy impacted her life, and she revealed that there is nothing to regret about posing nude.

After describing it as an "amazing experience," Heather pointed out that if she hadn't posed for Playboy, she wouldn't have met the people who helped her be where she is nowadays.

One of the many things that she learned from her time working for Playboy was how to be good in front of crowds and, of course, how to be in front of the cameras.

If being a beautiful model and actress (she has worked in films like "Christmas in Compton" and "Malibu Horror Story") wasn't hard enough, Heather is also a famous real estate agent currently associated with the Oppenheim Group.

According to her bio on the group's website, Heather is a Southern California native who specializes in high profile clients and is passionate about animal rights and keeping a healthy lifestyle.

Speaking of Heather Rae Young and Tarek El Moussa's romance, they recently celebrated their first anniversary together, and the model took to Instagram to share a touching tribute to her boyfriend.

View this post on Instagram

From the first day I met you, to our first date and our second date when we decided to commit 100% before we barely even knew each other. But we knew what we had was special. We had that butterflies in your tummy,cant eat, cant stop smiling soul mate love. I always knew it was out there, I knew I deserved to find it, I had given up hope that you were out there, and then there you were. It was unexpected for both of us and it was a moment that changed our lives forever. - You are my very best friend in the whole world. The man I look up to, admire, adore, best daddy, best heart, kind & most important loyal and honest. - I cant wait to spend the rest of my life with you. Every single day waking up to your sweet face and holding me before bed. I love you beyond anything I could have ever dreamed or imagined. I promise to love you every single day @therealtarekelmoussa Happy One Year Anniversary my bunny bear the love of my life. Me +you

A post shared by Heather Rae Young (@heatherraeyoung) on Jul 22, 2020 at 2:07pm PDT

TAKEN AND HEATHER CELEBRATING THEIR FIRST ANNIVERSARY

In the caption of her slideshow, she pointed out that they knew that their relationship was special from the first day they met. After revealing that they committed "100%" to their romance even though they barely knew each other, Heather wrote:

"We had that butterflies in your tummy, can't eat, can't stop smiling soul mate love."

She also confessed that Tarek was her best friend, that she looked up to him, and that she couldn't wait to spend the rest of her life with him.

At the moment, Heather Rae Young and Tarek El Moussa are focused on their career. In fact, she is expected to appear in the upcoming episodes of his new show, "Flipping 101 w/Tarek El Moussa."

View post:
Tarek El Moussa Just Marked One Year with Heather Rae Young Meet His Gorgeous Partner - AmoMama

The importance of primary care visits during the COVID-19 pandemic – Reading Eagle

Posted on July 28, 2020 by Prof Baldwin

Keep seeing your doctor!

This is the best advice for maintaining your health during the coronavirus pandemic. Participating in regular wellness, screening and preventive visits with your primary care provider can help detect any medical conditions and allow for appropriate interventions as soon as possible.

Regular interactions with your primary care provider are especially important for individuals with chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure or congestive heart failure. Lack of proper care for a chronic health condition can worsen short-term symptoms and affect your health long-term.

Maintaining your relationship with your primary care provider is key for protecting your good health during the pandemic, along with wearing masks, practicing social distancing, avoiding crowded places and proper hand hygiene. Following these simple steps can reduce the risk of contracting or spreading COVID-19 and any other viral or bacterial infection.

I also encourage my patients to eat more fruits and vegetables and less processed food. Regular exercise will help strengthen the immune system and may help prevent you from getting sick or having complications from any kind of infection. To maintain a healthy lifestyle, I recommend that individuals practice 30 to 40 minutes of aerobic exercise three to four times a week. A properly working home blood pressure cuff is also a good idea, since high blood pressure often has silent symptoms and may go undetected.

As always, if you or a loved one has symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, extreme dizziness or inability to walk, call 911 immediately for evaluation and treatment in an emergency department.

While COVID-19 is still prevalent in our communities, all our offices follow recommended safety measures to maintain a clean and safe environment. All medical staff members and patients will wear a face mask, and there will be a limit on how many patients can be in the office at the same time. All patients will be screened before coming to the office.

We are not currently allowing walk-in patients, and furniture has been removed from the waiting room to allow safe distancing.

While our offices are safe for patient visits, we continue to encourage patients to use virtual visits when it may not be necessary for an in-person appointment. These can include follow-up care and urgent care or select appointments for new patients.

Scheduled virtual visits are available with a Tower Health Medical Group Physician or Advanced Practice Provider (APP), or on demand care is available 24/7 with a Tower Health Urgent Care physician or APP through Virtual Care by TDH.

These telephone or video visits are a very useful tool for physicians to assess patient conditions without bringing you to the office. It is particularly relevant to vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with chronic medical conditions who have been suffering from more severe symptoms of the COVID-19 disease.

Maintaining good health is always important and even more so as our community faces this pandemic. Your Tower Health primary care provider is here for you in facilities that are clean and safe.

Dr. Albert Rabinovich practices internal medicine with Tower Health Medical Group.

Originally posted here:
The importance of primary care visits during the COVID-19 pandemic - Reading Eagle

You Are What Your Cow Eats: The Health Benefits Of Grass-Fed Beef And Dairy – HuffPost

Posted on July 28, 2020 by Prof Baldwin

Grass-fed beef and dairy are seemingly more popular than ever though its less of a trend than a revival of traditional farming practices, including those of Indigenous populations around the world whove long understood the benefits of grazing animals.

And there are a number of reasons, from climate change to animal welfare to flavor, to make the switch from buying products from conventionally raised cows if you can afford to. But is there a difference when it comes to nutrition? Is grass-fed beef and dairy really that much healthier for us than grain-fed?

The short answer is yes. Cows are meant to eat grass, not corn, so theyre naturally healthier when they do. But how much so can vary wildly, depending on the nuances of the farming practices. What exactly a cow eats grass is an umbrella term for a diverse variety of forages including chicory, clover and legumes and how they eat and move around the pasture can change the nutritional profile of both their meat and dairy.

Plus, healthy cows on healthy pastures require less antibiotics (commonly used in feedlots), the residue of which can make it into the meat.

But the most studied nutritional difference in grass-fed versus grain-fed beef and dairy is its fatty acid composition specifically, the ratio of pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids to heart-healthy omega-3s. The lower the ratio, the healthier the food.

Grass-fed beef and dairy have a more favorable ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids.

A 2019 study at Michigan State University found that grass-fed beef, depending on the management practices, tends to have a lower omega-6 to omega-3 ratio close to 2:1 on average compared to conventional corn-fed beef, which hovers around 15:1.

Organic Valley

But the study also found that the ratio can vary significantly depending on the specifics of the farming practices. Across the 753 samples they tested, the lowest and most beneficial ratios came from cows eating living forages grasses that are still growing in the ground with longer time on pasture. When producers used bunk feeding where cows are fed hay or grass pellets in a fashion similar to feedlots the omega ratio was often closer to that of conventional beef.

There were some samples in our data set of 27:1, so thats where, just because it says grass-fed on the label, you cant be sure that youre getting a better ratio than you are on grain-fed, said Chad Bitler, a research scientist at Green Acres Foundation who worked on the study. The grass-fed label, no longer regulated by the USDA, can encompass a long list of practices.

We found that the presence of omega-6 is directly associated with whats being fed to the cattle, Bitler said. Omega-6, in the human diet as well, is most prevalent in seed oils and grains like corn and soybeans. So if you look at that in contrast to what were feeding cattle in a feedlot harvested grain, soybeans and corn it makes sense that its going to be high in [omega-6s].

What does the omega ratio mean for our health?

Omega-6 is an essential fatty acid thats beneficial in moderate amounts, but detrimental to our health when over-consumed.

The ideal ratio [in our diets] of omega 6:3 is 1:1 or 2:1, said Diana Rodgers, a registered dietician and author of Sacred Cow. The typical Western diet is about a 20:1 ratio mostly due to a high consumption of processed foods and vegetable oils, she notes. This results in systemic inflammatory issues in the body, causing a host of issues, like cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer due to chronic inflammation.

Anything we can do to lower that ratio is a good thing. But that doesnt make grass-fed beef a silver bullet solution for our health.

Because beef is relatively low in fat as it is, swapping grass-fed beef for conventional beef is unlikely to make much of a difference in your overall omega ratio, Rodgers said. Especially if you continue to consume a diet high in omega-6. In other words, a grass-fed burger isnt necessarily healthier if youre eating it with a processed bun and French fries fried in soybean oil. And youd have to eat eight pounds of grass-fed beef to get the same amount of omega-3s in a piece of salmon, she said.

And until the systems change to incentivize healthier farming practices government subsidies make conventional beef and dairy cheaper to produce grass-fed can be cost prohibitive.

Organic Valley

As a dietician, I could never say to someone to only eat organic vegetables or dont eat vegetables at all, Rodgers told HuffPost. So if someone doesnt have access to regenerative grass-fed beef, they should just buy the best they can afford. Maybe you go for ground grass-fed instead of filets and ribeyes, which tend to be expensive anyway. If youre just thinking about your nutrition and youre strapped, Id recommend pasture-raised eggs as opposed to typical eggs, plus grass-fed butter and dairy products in general, Rodgers said.

The omega ratio is more significant in dairy than in beef.

Because dairy has more fat than meat, its fatty acid composition has a greater effect on our diets particularly high-fat dairy like whole milk, cheese and butter. A higher fat content in grass-fed dairy means a naturally higher percentage of omega-3 fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins.

A 2015 study found that both grass-fed and organic dairy which under organic certification, sees more time on grass than conventional had lower levels of saturated fat and higher levels of polyunsaturated fat than grain-fed. And, like beef, the nutritional profile can change significantly depending on the grazing practices.

Biodiverse pastures, where cows are allowed to self-select what they grazed, were found to rear the healthiest omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, plus higher levels of vitamins and antioxidants.

The grazing technique is absolutely vital for the health of the grass, which is vital for the health of the soil, which is vital for the health of the cow, said Jon Bansen, a dairy farmer in Monmouth, Oregon, who sells milk to Organic Valleys Grassmilk brand. The more biodiverse the plants on top of the soil, the more biodiverse the microbes in the soil. All the health youre getting in that grass-fed milk is really straight from the microbes [in the soil], he said. Diverse grasses grown in good soil can increase whats called phytochemical richness the tens of thousands of secondary compounds like alkaloids and carotenoids beneficial to health.

The Certified Organic Grassfed seal, piloted by Organic Valley and Maple Hill, ensures a minimum of 150 days per year on grass and a diet of at least 60% living forages which is more than organic certification alone. But Bansens cows spend an average of 233 days on pasture and get 90% of their diet from living forages supplemented only with balayage (a kind of fermented forage made by tightly wrapping just-harvested grass) in the winter months when grass isnt growing. And he moves his cows around the pasture every 12 hours, in a rotational system that benefits the grass and the soil as much as it does the cow. Grazing practices that enhance and protect biodiversity in the soil naturally yield a more nutritious product.

These newer scientific understandings of biodiversity and nutrition are congruent with, if not informed by, longstanding Indigenous food and agriculture traditions that teach that nutritious food follows from an appropriate and healthy relationship with the landscape, said Chris Newman of Sylvanaqua Farms in Montross, Virginia.

When we dont have a healthy relationship with the landscape, people tend to suffer, Newman said. And I think that has a lot more to do with health outcome and access to a nutritious diet and healthy lifestyle than, Do I pick this grass-fed or the corn-fed version of this product? Weve always known that if we are protecting the land and the water and maintaining an appropriate and healthy relationship with the landscape, then nutritious food follows from that.

Looking for grass-f
ed meat or dairy during COVID-19?

This local food database can help you find a farmer near you. And heres a list of farms shipping grass-fed meat nationwide:

See more here:
You Are What Your Cow Eats: The Health Benefits Of Grass-Fed Beef And Dairy - HuffPost

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