Vet-Stem, Inc. Founder and CEO, Robert Harman, DVM, Invited to Speak at the Adult Stem Cell Therapy and Regenerative …

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Poway, California (PRWEB) August 15, 2013

Robert J. Harman, DVM, Chief Executive Officer of Vet-Stem, Inc., a leading Regenerative Veterinary MedicineTM company located in San Diego, California, has been invited back to speak at the Adult Stem Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Conference in Cleveland, Ohio August 19-21, 2013. The conference is presented by The National Center for the Regenerative Medicine (NCRM), Case Western Reserve University (CWRU), Cleveland Clinic (CC), and University Hospitals Case Medical Center (UHCMC) to bring together a global perspective on regenerative medicine and adult stem cell therapy.

Dr. Harman is scheduled as the first speaker of Session II titled Disease Models for Adult Stem Cell Therapy, and his presentation is One Medicine Natural Veterinary Disease Models.

He stands alone in his expertise in the field of Regenerative Veterinary Medicine among the 273 attendees from 100 institutions in 17 countries that make up the conference. Dr. Harman draws his knowledge from more than 10,000 horse, dog and cat patients treated over the last 10 years in both the U.S. and Canada using proprietary Vet-Stem technology.

Dr. Harman is sharing the podium with Case Western Reserve Universitys own Dr. Arnold Caplan, and revolutionary regenerative medicine companies such as BioTime, Terumo BCT, STROMALab, and Pfizer. Dr. Caplan, a technology pioneer in cell-based therapies in Regenerative Medicine, is a scientific advisor to Vet-Stem, Inc.

About Vet-Stem, Inc.

Vet-Stem, Inc. was formed in 2002 to bring regenerative medicine to the veterinary profession. The privately held company is working to develop therapies in veterinary medicine that apply regenerative technologies while utilizing the natural healing properties inherent in all animals. As the first company in the United States to provide an adipose-derived stem cell service to veterinarians for their patients, Vet-Stem, Inc. pioneered the use of regenerative stem cells in veterinary medicine. The company holds exclusive licenses to over 50 patents including world-wide veterinary rights for use of adipose derived stem cells. In the last decade over 10,000 animals have been treated using Vet-Stem, Inc.s services, and Vet-Stem is actively investigating stem cell therapy for immune-mediated and inflammatory disease, as well as organ disease and failure. For more on Vet-Stem, Inc. and Veterinary Regenerative Medicine visit http://www.vet-stem.com or call 858-748-2004.

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Vet-Stem, Inc. Founder and CEO, Robert Harman, DVM, Invited to Speak at the Adult Stem Cell Therapy and Regenerative ...

NIH joins opposition to charging patients for experimental stem cell therapy

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By: Jet Villa, InterAksyon.com August 16, 2013 8:24 AM

InterAksyon.com The online news portal of TV5

MANILA, Philippines -- The National Institute of Health has joined the growing opposition to Health Secretary Enrique Onas stand that patients undergoing experimental stem cell therapy should pay for participating in what are essentially clinical trials.

The NIH, the research arm for health sciences of the University of the Philippines-Manila, issued a statement saying it fully support(s) the position statement of 21 medical organizations that clinical trials should be at no cost to the patients.

Officials of the NIH said making patients pay for participating in clinical trials is unethical since the procedures they undergo are not yet proven to be beneficial.

Speaking at the First Mid-Year Convention of the Philippine Society for Stem Cell Medicine on Monday, Ona said the country cannot completely adopt Western practices of offering these investigational therapies completely free for clinical trial participants.

Ona, the PSSCMs honorary chairman, cautioned that free clinical trials will not only be unaffordable for our institutions but very expensive and will forever relegate us to be a marketing testing ground after others have developed a technic in their country.

His position has triggered a backlash from leading medical practitioners.

In their statement, the NIH officials also urged the Department of Health and the Food and Drug Administration to issue clearer regulations for stem cell therapy for practicing clinicians to safeguard the health of Filipinos.

Stem cell therapy for unproven indications is proliferating in the Philippines and posing serious safety issues to unknowing clients (We are) alarmed by these uncontrolled practices which may include false claims, misinformation and exorbitant fees, they said, adding that the unproven use of stem cell therapy in these conditions should be restricted to clinical trials only.

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NIH joins opposition to charging patients for experimental stem cell therapy

Solon calls for probe into stem cell therapy

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by Buena Bernal Posted on 08/15/2013 7:59 PM |Updated 08/16/2013 12:05 AM

PROBE STEM CELL THERAPY. Rep Paulino 'Doy' Leachon files a resolution to probe the conduct of stem cell therapy in the Philippines. Photo grabbed from islandsentinel.com

MANILA, Philippines - Rep Paulino Salvador "Doy" Leachon of Oriental Mindoro's 1st district filed on Thusday, August 15, a house resolution calling for a congressional inquiry in aid of legislation on the conduct of stem cell therapy in the country.

House Resolution 215 was filed a day after Leachon's scheduled privilege speech, calling for the resignation of Health Secretary Enrique Ona over the cabinet official's stand on stem cell therapy.

READ: Leachon asks Ona to resign over stem cell issue

The 40-year-old lawmaker also urged concerned government agencies to step up their regulatory oversight. These agencies include the Department of Health (DOH), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).

First attempt to regulate

Government regulation of stem cell treatment is still in its infancy stage, with the guidelines for accreditation of facilities released only in March.

It is DOH's first attempt at regulating the practice, despite the therapy having been administered by Filipino physicians for years now.

The types of stem cell treatment that are allowed, prohibited, and restricted (i.e. allowed but with limitations) in the facilities to be accredited by August 31 are listed in the released guidelines.

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Solon calls for probe into stem cell therapy

Two Tufts Biomedical Graduate Students Awarded HHMI Research Fellowships

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Newswise BOSTON (August 14, 2013) The Howard Hughes Medical Institute has awarded two doctoral students from the Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences at Tufts University with 2013 International Student Research Fellowships. Seblewongel Asrat, from Ethiopia, studies the bacterium that causes Legionnaires disease while Jennifer Nwankwo, from Nigeria, studies red blood cell dehydration in sickle cell disease. The HHMI fellowship program provides support for international pre-doctoral students who are conducting outstanding research in the biomedical and related sciences.

Asrat, a molecular microbiology student, seeks to understand how specific cells in the immune system inhibit replication of the bacterium that causes Legionnaires disease, a severe form of pneumonia. She has identified a novel strategy that immune cells use to overcome pathogen attack. Her advisor is Ralph Isberg, Ph.D., Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) investigator and professor of molecular biology and microbiology at Tufts University School of Medicine (TUSM), and member of both the genetics and molecular microbiology program faculties at the Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences at Tufts. Asrat is in the MERGE-ID track (Medically-oriented Research in Graduate Education - Infectious Disease) program at the Sackler School. Her co-advisor in this program is Jennifer Chow, M.S., M.D., attending physician in infectious diseases at Tufts Medical Center as well as an assistant professor at TUSM.

Nwankwo studies sickle cell disease, a group of red blood cell disorders that include sickle cell anemia. She specifically studies the role of enzymes that cause red blood cell dehydration and cell adhesion critical events that lead to the painful crises that are the hallmark of sickle cell disease. Her goal is to identify enzymes that could be targeted by new drug treatments for the disorders. Nwankwo is a student in the Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics program at the Sackler School, advised by Athar Chishti, Ph.D., professor in the department of integrative physiology and pathobiology at TUSM and member of the cellular & molecular physiology; molecular microbiology; and pharmacology & experimental therapeutics program faculties at the Sackler School.

Asrat and Nwankwo are two of 42 international students selected to become 2013 HHMI International Student Research Fellows. Invited students must be in the third or fourth year of a Ph.D. program at a designated nominating institution.

These highly-competitive fellowships support the training of students who are committed to high-quality research that advances science and human health. This honor reflects the excellence of their work and the dedication of our faculty to provide the best training possible for our students, said Naomi Rosenberg, Ph.D., dean of the Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences and vice dean for research at Tufts University School of Medicine.

Launched in 2011, the HHMI International Student Research Fellows program has invested almost $10.8 million in these fellowships, now supporting 140 graduate students from 35 countries. Selected students each receive $43,000 for the first year with the opportunity for renewal for two more years. International students, not eligible for most federal and state loans or grants, have very limited options for funding their studies. Through the program, HHMI continues to fulfill its mission of advancing biomedical research and science education by supporting exceptional scientists and students.

The Howard Hughes Medical Institute is a non-profit, medical research organization that ranks as one of the nations largest philanthropies. HHMI was established in 1953 by aviator and industrialist, Howard R. Hughes.

About Tufts University School of Medicine and the Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences

Tufts University School of Medicine and the Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences at Tufts University are international leaders in innovative medical education and advanced research. The School of Medicine and the Sackler School are renowned for excellence in education in general medicine, biomedical sciences, special combined degree programs in business, health management, public health, bioengineering and international relations, as well as basic and clinical research at the cellular and molecular level. Ranked among the top in the nation, the School of Medicine is affiliated with six major teaching hospitals and more than 30 health care facilities. Tufts University School of Medicine and the Sackler School undertake research that is consistently rated among the highest in the nation for its effect on the advancement of medical science.

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Two Tufts Biomedical Graduate Students Awarded HHMI Research Fellowships

2 Tufts biomedical graduate students awarded HHMI research fellowships

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Public release date: 14-Aug-2013 [ | E-mail | Share ]

Contact: Siobhan Gallagher 617-636-6586 Tufts University, Health Sciences Campus

BOSTON (August 14, 2013) The Howard Hughes Medical Institute has awarded two doctoral students from the Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences at Tufts University with 2013 International Student Research Fellowships. Seblewongel Asrat, from Ethiopia, studies the bacterium that causes Legionnaires' disease while Jennifer Nwankwo, from Nigeria, studies red blood cell dehydration in sickle cell disease. The HHMI fellowship program provides support for international pre-doctoral students who are conducting outstanding research in the biomedical and related sciences.

Asrat, a molecular microbiology student, seeks to understand how specific cells in the immune system inhibit replication of the bacterium that causes Legionnaires' disease, a severe form of pneumonia. She has identified a novel strategy that immune cells use to overcome pathogen attack. Her advisor is Ralph Isberg, Ph.D., Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) investigator and professor of molecular biology and microbiology at Tufts University School of Medicine (TUSM), and member of both the genetics and molecular microbiology program faculties at the Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences at Tufts. Asrat is in the MERGE-ID track (Medically-oriented Research in Graduate Education - Infectious Disease) program at the Sackler School. Her co-advisor in this program is Jennifer Chow, M.S., M.D., attending physician in infectious diseases at Tufts Medical Center as well as an assistant professor at TUSM.

Nwankwo studies sickle cell disease, a group of red blood cell disorders that include sickle cell anemia. She specifically studies the role of enzymes that cause red blood cell dehydration and cell adhesion critical events that lead to the painful crises that are the hallmark of sickle cell disease. Her goal is to identify enzymes that could be targeted by new drug treatments for the disorders. Nwankwo is a student in the Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics program at the Sackler School, advised by Athar Chishti, Ph.D., professor in the department of integrative physiology and pathobiology at TUSM and member of the cellular & molecular physiology; molecular microbiology; and pharmacology & experimental therapeutics program faculties at the Sackler School.

Asrat and Nwankwo are two of 42 international students selected to become 2013 HHMI International Student Research Fellows. Invited students must be in the third or fourth year of a Ph.D. program at a designated nominating institution.

"These highly-competitive fellowships support the training of students who are committed to high-quality research that advances science and human health. This honor reflects the excellence of their work and the dedication of our faculty to provide the best training possible for our students," said Naomi Rosenberg, Ph.D., dean of the Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences and vice dean for research at Tufts University School of Medicine.

###

Launched in 2011, the HHMI International Student Research Fellows program has invested almost $10.8 million in these fellowships, now supporting 140 graduate students from 35 countries. Selected students each receive $43,000 for the first year with the opportunity for renewal for two more years. International students, not eligible for most federal and state loans or grants, have very limited options for funding their studies. Through the program, HHMI continues to fulfill its mission of advancing biomedical research and science education by supporting exceptional scientists and students.

The Howard Hughes Medical Institute is a non-profit, medical research organization that ranks as one of the nation's largest philanthropies. HHMI was established in 1953 by aviator and industrialist, Howard R. Hughes.

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2 Tufts biomedical graduate students awarded HHMI research fellowships

Dr. Robert Burkich Praised for Authoring Useful Guide to Healthy Living

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RINGGOLD, Ga., Aug. 15, 2013 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- In modern times, it seems that every time we check, the risk of injuring ourselves or becoming ill grows. If we are already in poor physical health at the time of illness, our chances of recovery are greatly reduced. Therefore, proactively taking steps to ensure optimum physical and mental functioning is the best way to ward off debilitating disease.

Dr. Robert Burkich, an expert in preventive medicine and anti-aging therapies, urges anyone concerned with their overall health to engage in good eating habits and get plenty of exercise. In his book, Preventive Medicine Guide to Staying Healthy: A New Results Oriented Approach, Dr. Robert Burkich outlines some simple steps that can be taken to improve overall physical and mental health. Regarding his groundbreaking book, Dr. Robert Burkich had this to say: "I've always been personally and professionally dedicated to health. I believe that we, as humans, have control over our lives and destinies, but without good health, how much progress can be made?"

The Preventive Medicine Guide to Staying Healthy: A New Results Oriented Approach is Dr. Robert Burkich's most comprehensive compilation of valuable tips and suggestions for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Dr. Robert Burkich stresses to his readers that while there are many useful treatment options available, simple diet and exercise can go a long way to ensure optimal health. For those who have not always lived a healthy life, Dr. Robert Burkich sheds light on some treatment options available to cleanse their systems of toxins.

As a medical practitioner who is board certified in chelation therapy, Dr. Robert Burkich is well-versed in the treatment process and has played an integral role in increasing awareness of preventive medicine and anti-aging treatment options. In addition to serving as a guide to wellness, Dr. Robert Burkich's book promises readers a fresh outlook on losing weight, controlling diabetes, and lowering the risk of many illnesses.

Dr. Robert Burkich and his staff at Preventive Medicine, Anti-Aging, and Chelation Therapy Inc. are knowledgeable of all the newest treatment options available. As Dr. Robert Burkich points out in his book, however, proper nutrition and exercise can make a world of difference in one's overall physical and mental well-being.

About: Dr. Robert Burkich is an expert in preventive medicine who has dedicated the past 20 years of his career to quality medical practice and education.

Media Contact: Bethany Franklin, Optimizeup.com, 706-891-1200, support@optimizeup.com

News distributed by PR Newswire iReach: https://ireach.prnewswire.com

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Doctor promotes regenerative medicine

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Medical practitioners say that todays generation is more fortunate because advances in medicine and cosmetic dermatology have been so rapid that practically any threat to staying young can be addressed.

Lasers and stem-cell therapy are just two of the innovations we have seen in recent decades that are helping people stay young and beautiful.

Among the growing number of Filipino doctors who are keeping abreast of these trends is Dr. Francis Decangchon. A graduate of the University of Santo Tomas College of Medicine and a practitioner of cosmetic dermatology for years, Dr. Decangchon has branched out into regenerative or anti-aging medicine.

Radical measures

He explains that, during the 1950s and 60s, those who wanted to stay young had to resort to radical measures that involved invasive, meaning surgical, procedures. Of late, however, the emphasis has shifted to minimally invasive, less invasive or, in some cases, non-invasive ways of defying age.

When women, for instance, reach their 30s and 40s, they start losing their natural supply of collagen and elastin. The skin begins to sag and lose its elasticity.

Fortunately, theres a solution.

Nowadays there are patients who, at 30 years old, can already start having lifting, so by the time they are in their 50s and 60s, banat pa yan, says Dr. Decangchon. Lasers are also used to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin.

Hormone replacement

The Asian Center for Ageless Beauty is a clinic that offers regenerative medicine treatment.

Link:
Doctor promotes regenerative medicine

Bill filed to regulate stem cell therapy in PH

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By Christian V. Esguerra Philippine Daily Inquirer

La Union Rep. Eufranio Eriguel. Photo from congress.gov.ph

MANILA, PhilippinesA congressman has joined the call to regulate stem cell therapy administered in the country.

La Union Rep. Eufranio Eriguel has introduced House Bill No. 212, which would put up a bioethics advisory board that would establish ethical standards governing the practice of stem cell research and therapy.

Under the proposed Stem Cell Research and Therapy Act of 2013, the board shall be responsible for addressing contentious ethical, scientific and legal issues in stem cell and cell-based or cellular research and therapies.

There is much to be learned from stem cell therapy, its benefits and application in the cure of some of the most devastating diseases and conditions. As of now, the full promise of stem cell treatment remains unknown, Eriguel said in a statement.

But the cost far outweighs its benefits because it is very expensive and only a few physicians are trained to do stem cell procedures here in the Philippines.

In his proposal, the board will be headed by the health secretary and the National Transplant Ethics Committee, while the Food and Drug Administration director will serve as vice chairman.

A proposed institutional review committee will be tasked to approve stem cell and cell-based or cellular research and therapies based on existing Department of Health guidelines.

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Bill filed to regulate stem cell therapy in PH

DOH gives health facilities engaged in stem cell therapy until Aug. 31 to register

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By: Jet Villa, InterAksyon.com August 13, 2013 8:42 AM

InterAksyon.com The online news portal of TV5

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Health (DOH) has given all health facilities practicing stem cell therapy and companies importing and producing stem cell products untilAug. 31to apply for accreditation and product registration, respectively.

Nick Lutero, director of the DOH-Bureau of Health Facilities and Services, said it will be considered illegal for facilities to do stem cell procedures if they fail to comply with the requirement.

Papatigil namin ang pag-conduct ng therapy. For those still continuing to practice, I think we have sufficient laws, particularly on the illegal practice of medicine. They could be criminally liable, he said in a chance interview.

Lutero lamented that only five hospitals have applied for registration although the DOH had issued the guidelines on this since March.

We have done preliminary visits sa mga hospitals na ito at mukang based sa initial inspection, merong sufficient compliance sa mga facilities, he said.

Companies importing and producing stem cell products, on the other hand, should apply for registration with the Food and Drug Administration, an agency attached to the DOH.

Products that will not be applied for registration will also be considered illegal after the deadline.

Experimental treatment not for free

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DOH gives health facilities engaged in stem cell therapy until Aug. 31 to register

DOH sets deadline for stem cell therapy accreditation

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Manila, Philippines -- Hospitals and health facilities offering stem cell therapy have until August 31 to apply for accreditation from the Department of Health (DoH).

DoH Secretary Enrique T. Ona said a number of hospitals in Metro Manila have already applied for accreditation to perform this "innovative" treatment that has not yet been accepted as standard mode of care in the country since it needs further tests and several more layers of research.

In the first mid-year convention of the Philippine Society for Stem Cell Medicine at the Manila Hotel yesterday, Ona reiterated that stem cell therapy is "the future of medicine."

"Stem cell therapy is not a cure-all medical treatment. Patients have yet to be presented first with standard of treatment, and in many cases, stem cell treatments have to be done in conjunction with other standard modalities of treatment," he said.

The Bureau of Health Facilities and Services (BHFS) of the DoH is accepting the applications for accreditation while a bio-ethics committee and a hospital-based review board will go over the applications and decide on their approval.

Five big hospitals in Metro Manila have already applied for accreditation, said Nick Lutero, chief of the BHFS.

Lutero said initial checks have revealed that these hospitals possess the required equipment needed for the treatment but they would still have to check on requirements set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in relation to the practice.

Lutero said institutions that are offering stem cell treatments can still perform the procedures pending the approval of applications. However, once formal accreditations are already given, unaccredited institutions should cease offering stem cell therapy.

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DOH sets deadline for stem cell therapy accreditation

Simplify the Study of Physiology with New, Easy-to-Read Textbook That Teaches Fundamental Chemistry Principles

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MANLIUS, N.Y., Aug. 13, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --Reece Biomedical Consulting LLC announces publication of its first paperback physiology textbook, "Physiology: Custom-Designed Chemistry".

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130813/PH62932 )

This monograph, written primarily for entry-level college students desiring a career in medical science, is now available online. It explains in simple language the few chemistry principles that are actually used by physiology textbooks to explain how numerous systems of the body work.

Included is a detailed discussion of what that magical stuff called 'energy' really is, of why water is the most important chemical in the human body, of where nerves get their electricity, and of how oxygen flows into and carbon dioxide flows out of lungs at the same time. Readers need no prior knowledge of chemistry to fully understand the concepts presented. Only scientific words that are totally defined are included in the chapters.

Prominent scientists including Dr. Bruce Alberts, Editor-in-Chief of Science Magazine, worry that today's curricula and biology textbooks "make science seem like gibberish" [Science 388(7):1263, 2012]. To be comprehensive, major physiology textbook publishers exclude detail necessary for in-depth understanding of fundamental physiology processes. Yet it is common for physiology textbooks to be well over 1000 pages and to be too heavy to carry in a backpack.

Reece Biomedical Consulting LLC anticipates that students will find attractive smaller, easy to read textbooks that they can carry in a pocket or download to their phone or electronic tablet. "Physiology: Custom-Designed Chemistry" is also available as a Kindle e-book for those who prefer a digital format.

Bence Szabadkai, Medical Student, shared, "The purpose of this book is not to cram information in your head that you will never need, but rather to help you understand the fundamental building blocks of physiology."

John R. Minarcik, MD, stated, "This book is an essential companion to my 1,000 YouTube videos, seen 10 million times by 16,000 medical student subscribers, and my 4,000 registered Online Medical School Pathology Course Attendees!"

Iskandar Basal, Medical Student, shared, "This book is well written and it answers many important questions that are essential to understanding physiology."

The author, Margaret Thompson Reece, helps college students taking courses in anatomy and physiology figure out how to study this science in a way that they will achieve high grades on their exams and gain entry into the professional training programs they desire. Dr. Thompson Reece has a PhD in Physiology and is an alumnus of the University of California at Davis.

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Simplify the Study of Physiology with New, Easy-to-Read Textbook That Teaches Fundamental Chemistry Principles

Canine distemper virus: An emerging disease in rare Amur tigers

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Public release date: 13-Aug-2013 [ | E-mail | Share ]

Contact: Jim Sliwa jsliwa@asmusa.org 202-942-9297 American Society for Microbiology

Rare Amur tigers in Russia are succumbing to infection with canine distemper virus (CDV), a pathogen most commonly found in domestic dogs, according to the authors of a study published in mBio, the online open-access journal of the American Society for Microbiology.

Pressure from poaching, decimation of their prey base, and habitat fragmentation have diminished the population of Amur tigers (also called Siberian tigers) to fewer than 500. In the study, a team of scientists from the US and Russia show that CDV infected and caused fatal neurological disease in members of this critically endangered species. They estimate that the virus has killed at least 1% of Amur tigers since 2009.

"Losing 1% of an endangered population is pretty significant," says corresponding author Denise McAloose, Head Pathologist at the Wildlife Conservation Society in The Bronx, New York. "And these losses represent only the deaths we know about. I imagine that there were others that we just never saw," says McAloose.

Since 2001, several rare Amur Tigers have exhibited a set of strange behaviors. Normally a reclusive species, tigers have been seen entering villages and wandering onto roads in the Russian Far East, stumbling, emaciated, and unafraid of humans. (One example can be found on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mTGRtwV1RII). In each of the documented cases, the tiger eventually died or was destroyed after its condition worsened. Early findings showed that at least one of the tigers was infected with a member of the morbillivirus family of viruses, but conclusive answers had evaded scientists and wildlife managers until now.

Using tissue samples from five wild Amur tigers that died or were destroyed due to neurological disease in 2001, 2004, or 2010, McAloose and her colleagues proved that infection with CDV, a type of morbillivirus, is to blame for the deaths of two of the tigers and caused a serious infection in a third. Under the microscope, the brains of the two tigers that died of CDV infection were riddled with lesions, indicating they suffered from severe viral encephalitis, consistent with their clumsy, abnormal behavior. Molecular analyses to identify CDV-specific proteins and immunolabelling with CDV-specific antibodies confirmed that CDV was present in these tissues. A gene for a CDV-specific gene was detected in the third tiger.

The problem isn't limited to one location, says McAloose. The three tigers that tested positive for CDV were distributed across the Russian Far East.

"That tells us this is a disease that is distributed all across Amur tiger range," McAloose says. "And it also appears to be a relatively new threat to tigers since blood samples from wild tigers prior to 2000 tested negative for antibodies to the virus".

But how do tigers contract a CDV infection? Relatively few domestic dogs in the Russian Far East are vaccinated against CDV, McAloose says, and tigers do kill and eat dogs, so they represent one possible source. But domestic dogs aren't the only suspects.

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Canine distemper virus: An emerging disease in rare Amur tigers

MRSA strain in humans originally came from cattle

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Public release date: 13-Aug-2013 [ | E-mail | Share ]

Contact: Jim Sliwa jsliwa@asmusa.org 202-942-9297 American Society for Microbiology

A strain of bacteria that causes skin and soft tissue infections in humans originally came from cattle, according to a study to be published in mBio, the online open-access journal of the American Society for Microbiology. The researchers who conducted the genetic analysis of strains of Staphylococcus aureus known as CC97 say these strains developed resistance to methicillin after they crossed over into humans around forty years ago. Today, methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strain CC97 is an emerging human pathogen in Europe, North and South America, Africa, and Asia. The findings highlight the potential for cows to serve as a reservoir for bacteria with the capacity for pandemic spread in humans.

The researchers sequenced the genomes of 43 different CC97 isolates from humans, cattle, and other animals, and plotted their genetic relationships in a phylogenetic tree. Corresponding author Ross Fitzgerald of the Roslin Institute and the University of Edinburgh in Scotland says strains of CC97 found in cows appear to be the ancestors of CC97 strains from humans.

"Bovine strains seemed to occupy deeper parts of the phylogenetic tree - they were closer to the root than the human strains. This led us to conclude that the strains infecting humans originated in cows and that they had evolved from bovine to human host jumps," says Fitzgerald.

Although the CC97 strains from animals were quite genetically diverse, the human isolates cluster together in two tight, distinct "clades", or relatedness groups, indicating that S. aureus CC97 in cattle crossed over into humans on two separate occasions. Using mutation rates as a molecular clock, the authors determined that the ancestor of clade A jumped from a bovine host to humans between 1894 and 1977 and clade B made the jump between 1938 and 1966.

After they made the jump, the human CC97 strains acquired some new capabilities, says Fitzgerald, thanks to genes encoded on portable pieces of DNA called mobile genetic elements.

"It seems like these elements, such as pathogenicity islands, phages, and plasmids, are important in order for the bacterium to adapt to different host species," says Fitzgerald. "The reverse is true as well: the bovine strains have their own mobile genetic elements."

Perhaps the most problematic new capability the human strains acquired is the ability to resist methicillin, an important antibiotic for fighting staphylococcal infections. Only human strains of CC97 were able to resist the drug, which indicates that the bacteria acquired resistance after they crossed over into humans, presumably through exposure to antibiotics prescribed for treating human infections.

This sequence of events contrasts with the case of a S. aureus strain from pigs, Fitzgerald points out, since a study in 2012 revealed that MRSA ST398 strains evolved the ability to resist methicillin before they crossed over into humans (http://mbio.asm.org/content/3/1/e00305-11). Any number of factors could create these differences, making pigs - but not cattle - a source of a drug-resistant bacterium. At this point, though, there isn't enough information to say whether differences in the S. aureus strains, differences between pigs and cattle, or differences between swine and dairy farming practices might be responsible.

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MRSA strain in humans originally came from cattle

Adaptrin, the All Natural Herbal Supplement Released Information Today Providing a Scientifically Proven Anti-Aging …

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Staten Island, New York (PRWEB) August 13, 2013

Adaptrin, the all natural herbal supplement released information today providing a unique and scientifically proven anti-aging approach to optimal body functionality, in-turn defying stress. The supplement developed on the foundations of Tibetan medicine, has shown unique, broad range anti-oxidant properties that help address inflammation and stress the body faces with aging and todays modern life-style. Importantly the supplements bio-protectant properties help provide cells with the tools to cope with popular-culture supplements and over-supplementation. In simple terms it restores and heals cellular function.

With recent news about a connection between increased risk of prostate cancer in men and the over-use of fish oil supplements, which may work as pro-oxidants, Adaptrins bio-protectant action neutralizes the stress on an organism due to excess supplement usage. In a way, Adaptrin works as a smart compound protecting our body from harm due to an excessive nutrient supply.

"Evolving awareness of nutrition in maintaining health and longevity has led us to the use of dietary supplements, said Dr. Vladimir Badmaev, whose family developed the formulation for Adaptrin. However, continuous intake for several months or years of the compilation of high doses of vitamins, synthetic and natural antioxidants, essential trace elements, energizers, essential fatty acids and high potency protein formulas will deplete the bodys ability to accommodate and utilize the supplemented nutrients. Even the best meant and researched nutrition may not help our body to stay healthy. In fact, nutrient over-supplementation may accelerate aging and the disease process by depleting the body of its own natural defense mechanisms and the ability to heal naturally.

As a result, we need a complementary strategy which takes into account the need to enhance bodys ability to accommodate those supplements, Dr. Badmaev said. Adaptrin, a multi-component all natural herbal and mineral formula derived from an indigenous tradition of Tibetan medicine, offers such a strategy by improving overall wellness and assists the bodys cells by providing tools to cope with excess of nutrients due to over-supplementation and facilitates cells own healing.

The Bioprotectant action of Adaptrin is derived from Indo-Tibetan concept of Rasayanas or vitalizers. The combination of herbs and minerals that promote energy circulation improves the blood vessel function, elasticity and ultimately blood delivery to the tissues. In a study of cognitive and mood functions in patients with a median age of 59, nearly all who used Adaptrin during a six-month period said they had improvements in memory, mental clarity and orientation, energy and alertness, sleep, mental attitude and well-being. Adaptrins influence adjusts and normalizes body function in response to daily challenges and prevents age-related decline by promoting healing process (Badmaev, V. Tibetan Medicine: An Effective Botanical Supplement for Peripheral Vascular Circulation J Cardiovasc Dis Diagn 2013, 1:3 --- https://www.adaptrin.com/sites/default/files/documents/Adaptrin%20JCDD-1-111%20%283%29%20FINAL.pdf).

Adaptrin has proven safety and efficacy in clinical studies and has a long history of use in various ethnic, cultural and age groups.

Adaptrin is one of the most researched and clinically tested traditional multi-component formulas known (Tibetan Medicine. Badmaev, V. 1999 (May). In a book titled: Essentials of Complementary and Alternative Medicine by Wayne B. Jonas and Jeffrey S. Levin; published by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. ISBN: 0-683-30674-X: 604. Amazon.com). Studies validate that Adaptrin plays an adaptogenic/bioprotectant role by safeguarding the integrity of live cells against stress, and helping fulfill cell's physiological potential.

ABOUT ADAPTRIN Adaptrin is a unique proprietary botanical product formulated on the principles of Tibetan medicine and designed to regulate, normalize, and support the healthy cardiovascular and immune systems in men and women, providing a platform for healthy living and optimal aging.*

Adaptrin helps people to feel better and have all around increased qualities of life. Consumers will not find Adaptrin in any vitamin store, retail health food location, or any typical place to buy vitamins. Adaptrin can only be found on http://www.adaptrin.com.

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Adaptrin, the All Natural Herbal Supplement Released Information Today Providing a Scientifically Proven Anti-Aging ...

Stem cell therapy shows promise in repairing brain damage

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Stem cell therapy shows promise in repairing brain damage even hours after stroke occurs

Durham, NC Stroke is a major health concern and is a leading cause of death in the United States, according to the Center for Disease Control. Despite significant research efforts, developing treatments that ensure complete recovery for stroke patients poses an extreme challenge, especially when more than a few hours have passed between onset of the stroke and administration of treatment.

However, a new study released today in STEM CELLS Translational Medicine indicates that endothelial precursor cells, which are found in the bone marrow, umbilical cord blood, and as very rare cells in peripheral blood, could make a significant difference for these patients recovery even in the later stages of stroke. In animal studies, the treatment minimized the initial brain injury and helped repair the stroke damage.

Previous studies indicated that stem/progenitor cells derived from human umbilical cord blood (hUCB) improved functional recovery in stroke models, noted Branislava Janic, Ph.D., a member of Henry Ford Health Systems Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory in Detroit and lead author of the study. We wanted to examine the effect of hUCB-derived AC133+ endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) on stroke development and resolution in rats.

Dr. Janic and his team injected rats that had suffered strokes with the stem cells. When they later examined the animals using MRI, they found that the transplanted cells had selectively migrated to the injured area and that the stem cells stopped the tissue damage from spreading, instigated regeneration, and also affected the time course for stroke resolution. A significant decrease in lesion size also was observed, at a dose of 10 million cells, as early as seven days after the strokes onset.

This led us to conclude that cord blood-derived EPCs can significantly contribute to developing more effective treatments that allow broader time period for intervention, minimize the initial brain injury and help repair the damage in later post-stroke phases, Dr. Janic said.

The early signs of stroke are often unrecognized, and many patients cannot take advantage of clot-busting treatments within the required few hours after stroke onset, said Anthony Atala, M.D., editor of STEM CELLS Translational Medicine and director of the Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine. In this animal study, a combination of stem cells shows promise for healing stroke damage when administered 24 hours after the stroke.

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The full article, Intravenous administration of human umbilical cord blood derived AC133+ endothelial progenitor cells in rat stroke model reduces infarct volume magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and histological findings, can be accessed at http://www.stemcellstm.com.

About STEM CELLS Translational Medicine: STEM CELLS TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE (SCTM), published by AlphaMed Press, is a monthly peer-reviewed publication dedicated to significantly advancing the clinical utilization of stem cell molecular and cellular biology. By bridging stem cell research and clinical trials, SCTM will help move applications of these critical investigations closer to accepted best practices.

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Stem cell therapy shows promise in repairing brain damage