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2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/18476 | Vital Record
About TAMHSC
Masters in Health Administration students awarded fellowships
May 31, 2013 by Rae Lynn Mitchell Master of Health Administration (M.H.A.) students at the Texas A&M Health Science Center School of Rural Public Health are encouraged to compete for Administrative Fellowships as part of their post-graduate experience. Students begin preparing for their fellowships during the second semester of their first year and continue through their final year. This fellowship opportunity allows students to work within an organization and experience real-world application of the skills they learned during their coursework. Here are the stories of three M.H.A. students who will be beginning their fellowships in the summer of 2013.
Tyler Colton
Tyler Colton will complete his fellowship with Vidant Medical Center (VMC) in Greenville, North Carolina. VMC is one of four medical centers in North Carolina and is the flagship hospital for Vidant Health, which is comprised of 10 hospitals spread throughout eastern North Carolina. It is a state-of-the-art 909-bed regional referral facility servicing 1.4 million people in 29 counties and is serviced by over 500 physicians and nearly 8,000 employees.
During Tyler’s one-year fellowship, he will work with and observe senior leadership as they navigate a complex medical center. Tyler will also have the opportunity to contribute to the organization and gain valuable experience through a wide array of projects while working alongside two other fellows.
Mai Hoang
Mai Hoang will complete her fellowship at The University of Texas Medical Branch Health System (UTMB) in Galveston, Texas. UTMB is home to four schools, three institutes, the 320-bed John Sealy Hospital, and the 108-bed Texas Department of Criminal Justice Hospital.
The health system operates 80 community-based clinics located in 51 locations on and off the island and became a member of the Texas Medical Center in 2010. The UTMB Health Administrative Fellowship Program will provide Mai with an opportunity to apply lessons from the classroom to real-life situations and allow her to explore operations through departmental rotations and projects.
David Perez will complete his fellowship at the Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center (MEDVAMC). The MEDVAMC is a state-of-the-art facility with 357 acute care beds, a 40-bed Spinal Cord Injury Center, and a 141-bed Community Living Center. MEDVAMC serves as the primary health care provider for almost 130,000 veterans in southeast Texas, which also includes outpatient clinics in Beaumont, Conroe, Galveston, Houston, Lufkin, Richmond, and Texas City.
During David’s fellowship he will work on projects that will provide a better understanding of the diverse facets of healthcare operations and management while rotating through multiple departments. David will be considered part of the leadership team and under the direction of the fellowship preceptor, which is the Medical Center Director.
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Wielding Nature’s Sword: Researchers at Texas A&M discover new treatments against drug-resistant infections
Since World War II, antibiotics have been our only defense against bacterial infection, but overuse and misuse have caused some bacteria to develop resistance to antibiotics. Now, researchers at Texas A&M Health Science Center have discovered an entirely new class of antimicrobials that have the potential to kill drug-resistant bacteria.
South Texas teens get hands-on lesson about Ebola transmission
High school students in South Texas learned first-hand about the transmission of Ebola this week during a simulated disease transmission lab facilitated by the Texas A&M Health Science Center Health Careers Program.
College of Nursing Alumni receive DAISY Awards
Two Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Nursing alumni recently received the honor of the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. The DAISY Award, which stands for diseases attacking
5 tricks for eating fewer treats on Halloween
Halloween is the biggest holiday for candy producers, which can be a nightmare for parents. Nutritionist David Leal shares his top five tips to avoid eating too much sugar during Halloween.
New drug boosts immune system to protect against world’s deadliest infectious diseases
Researchers at the Texas A&M Health Science Center (TAMHSC) and the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center have developed a new therapy to stimulate the body’s natural immune system, thereby providing effective protection against a wide range of life-threatening infectious diseases. Continue Reading →
Colonias Bound: An expedition into preventative health care
This month, the Texas A&M Health Science Center is teaming up with Texas A&M University Colonias Program and Texas A&M International University College of Nursing and heading to the Laredo Colonias to bring both resources and public education to those living in the Texas border communities.
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2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/18485 | Your News Items
UNL Announce
Symposium to examine the genetic science behind addiction
UNL will host the 61st annual Nebraska Symposium on Motivation on April 25 and 26. Many people use substances, but a relatively small percentage develop substance use disorders. Why this happens is an active area of research that will be explored April 25-26 at the 61st annual Nebraska Symposium on Motivation at UNL.
The symposium’s theme this year is “Genes and the Motivation to Use Substances.” Six experts will present research findings on various topics on the motivation of substance use and addictive behavior.
Scott Stoltenberg, assistant professor of psychology at UNL, is coordinating the symposium. He said the long-running symposium looks motivation’s role in human behavior and this year will delve into the incentives to use substances and the risks of developing a disorder.
“There is no question that humans are motivated to use substances, such as alcohol, tobacco or marijuana,” Stoltenberg said. “Nearly all of us have used substances at some time in our lives and many of us use them regularly. Sizeable minorities of people develop a substance use disorder that is, at least in part, characterized by impaired control over use of the substance.
“In other words, when people are motivated to quit using the substance they have trouble doing so,” he said. “Most of us don’t develop a substance use disorder and so the question arises: Are there underlying genetic differences between those that develop a problem with substances and those who don’t? The short answer is yes.”
Stoltenberg said that in the past two decades, genetic research on substance use disorders has grown tremendously, providing evidence that genetic factors influence a person’s motivation to use substances and the risk for developing disorders. “There is no single gene that causes addiction, but there are many genes that have some influence, along with certain environments,” he said. “This symposium will examine what is currently known about the role that genes play in the motivation to use substances and the risk for developing a disorder.”
The event is free and open to the public. While the presentations are scientific, Stoltenberg said the public could gain new insights into addiction.
“There is a lot of curiosity about how genes might contribute to a person’s vulnerability to addiction,” he said. “Nearly everyone knows someone who has suffered with a substance use problem. I think the public will gain an appreciation for the amount of research that has been conducted in the area. We know a lot more about the causes of addiction than we did just a few years ago.” The symposium will be in the Nebraska Union, 14th and R streets. A full schedule, list of speakers and more information on the symposium – including how to register, which is suggested but not required – can be found at http://psychology.unl.edu/symposium/nebraska-symposium-motivation. The event also will be live-streamed at http://psychology.unl.edu/symposium/streaming. More details at: http://go.unl.edu/pgd
Today@UNL Tue. April 23, 2013 Promotion, tenure celebration is todayUNL team’s discovery yields super-tough, strong nanofibersInstant messaging going mobile, system-wide, April 28Ross to host free showing of 'Trashed'Research office offers help session on NUgrant routingSymposium to examine the genetic science behind addictionLee to be awarded academic freedom honor Newsletters including this story
Today@UNL | Team's discovery yields super tough nanofibers; Promotion, tenure celebration is today Your browser does not appear to support JavaScript, or you have turned JavaScript off. You may use unl.edu without enabling JavaScript, but certain functions may not be available.
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The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is an equal opportunity educator and employer. For current job openings, visit employment.unl.edu | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/18693 | News Opinion Lifestyle Showcase Sports Ads Classifieds Jobs Extras CU Notices Contact Us Health
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Battling ignorance
Parents want to educate others about Tourette’s syndrome December 11, 2012
By ALYSSA MURPHY amurphy@sungazette.com ,
Save | HUNTERSVILLE - Ron Polcyn had hoped that since his two daughters had not inherited his Tourette's syndrome, his son, Austin, also would not develop it. Yet right around the age of 5 or 6, Austin started showing symptoms. Now at 13, he has tics, such as doing things with his hands, jumping and facial grimaces when he eats. While many people associate the syndrome with cursing uncontrollably, there actually are many types of tics people can experience. They also can change daily. "He could have one tic today and two tomorrow," Ron said. Then his tics could completely disappear and he could be in remission until five years down the line, it could come back. People with Tourette's syndrome often also have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). When Ron gets stressed out, his OCD becomes more pronounced where he will repeatedly have to check something. "Eventually I say, 'That's the last time,' " he said. A third of the people with it stutter, something that Austin does, Ron said. A big trigger for Austin is stress. When he becomes overwhelmed, his tics become more pronounced. If he is having trouble with his homework and becomes too stressed about it, his parents encourage him to go upstairs to his bedroom to play the drums. Drumming is his outlet, something he does to relax. While not everyone with Tourette's syndrome plays drums, Ron said it is important for them to have outlets. "I know what he's going through," Ron said. "I was in martial arts. That was my escape. ... I don't know where I'd be if my father didn't get me involved with it." Like Austin, Ron inherited Tourette's from his father. Ron had done some drumming, which inspired him to buy a drum set for Austin at a "dollar" store. He did not have it long before it broke. He got another one, which also broke. When he became serious about drumming, his parents bought him a "nice drum set." "I surpassed my Dad a long time ago (in drumming)," Austin said. He drums every day he can. Recently, he started working with Mike Wrench, who brought to the area Drums and Disabilities, a national organization based on helping people with disabilities through drumming. Mostly however, Austin and his family have to deal with the misconceptions. "A lot of people think people with Tourette's are mentally handicapped," Ron said. Shannon, Austin's mother, worked with him and discovered he learned a different way. She had him take a test after reading a lesson silently. He failed. "The second test, he read out loud," Shannon said. "No mistakes." His parents called him an auditory learner, something they shared with his teachers so they would know how to help him. "A lot of people think he's stupid," Ron said. "He made the honor roll." Some people think Tourette's syndrome is contagious, which it isn't. Ron and Shannon want to make people more aware of facts about the syndrome. Ron said they begged his school for more than a year to educate the students about why Austin does what he does. They educated one grade and some of the students asked questions, but it didn't help the students in seventh, ninth, 10th, 11th and 12th grades. Ron said he wants to educate people in hopes of stopping bullying. Austin has been yelled at in school for acting out in ways that he can't help. "Teachers never understand," Shannon said. "Every kid has a right to a fair and proper education," Ron said. They tried starting a support group for anyone who has or anyone who knows someone who has or anyone who just want to learn more about Tourette's syndrome. If interested, call Ron at 435-5181. Save | Subscribe to Williamsport Sun-Gazette I am looking for: | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/18827 | WHO Director-General visits Madagascar, Mauritius and Kenya
WHO/Pierre Formenty
Dr Lee visits a bird sanctuary in Mauritius where experts are on the alert for the arrival of birds carrying the H5N1 virus.
Dr LEE Jong-wook visited Madagascar, Mauritius and Kenya from 3–9 March 2006. Each of the three countries has a different set of health challenges. Malnutrition, malaria, and neglected diseases such as leprosy and plague are important issues in Madagascar — an island nation of 18 million people. In Mauritius — a middle-income country with 1.2 million people — chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke and diabetes are responsible for the vast majority of deaths. In Kenya, curbing infectious diseases including HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria, and improving maternal health for its 34 million people are high on the health agenda.
Dr Lee stressed one common health challenge to leaders in all three countries — to quickly tackle the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N1 should it infect their wild or domestic birds, and to prepare for a potential human influenza pandemic.
Travelogue: Madagascar, Mauritius and Kenya
Related links Director-General's speech: launch of Preventing chronic diseases: a vital investment at the Mauritius Institute of Health
Director-General's statement to a press conference, Mbagathi District Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya Madagascar country profile Mauritius country profile
Kenya country profile
Former Director-General: Dr LEE Jong-wook
Director-General travelogues | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/18957 | Public Health Assessments & Health Consultations Back to Arizona Reports
PETITIONED HEALTH CONSULTATION
CHOULIC GRAVEL PIT
(a/k/a BABOQUIVARI DISTRICT)
TOHONO O'ODHAM NATION, PIMA COUNTY, ARIZONA
In February 1994, the construction company, under the oversight of Tohono O'odham Nation
representatives and its consultant, dug test trenches on the site. Trenches were dug in several
areas for the purpose of locating former burial trenches and collecting soil samples. During the
trenching activities, buried asphalt and chunks of what appeared to be lime were found. In
addition, samplers encountered stained subsurface soils with a diesel fuel odor. Three of the five
subsurface soil samples, collected at depths of three and eight feet, showed the presence of total
petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) at levels up to 14,700 parts per million (ppm). Although not
applicable to tribal lands, the State of Arizona has established a cleanup standard of 100 ppm for
TPH in soils. Subsequent sampling, at five and ten foot depths, yielded five of 39 samples with
TPH levels exceeding the 100 ppm standard. The highest result from the second batch of soil
samples was 2120 ppm TPH [4].
In the area surrounding the arroyo, 1140 acres drain into the pit which is 30 feet deep in some
places. Based on the average annual runoff and capacity of the pit, consultants estimated that the
pit can hold all of the annual runoff. Infiltration through the bottom of the pit appears to be high
and, as a result, all of the runoff is expected to recharge the groundwater. Depth to groundwater
is about 700 feet in this area. One estimate shows that any pollution existing in the pit could
reach the groundwater in as soon as five years [6]. A drinking water well is located about one
mile down gradient of the Choulic Gravel Pit [3]. For about six months of the year, during the rainy seasons, there is standing water in the arroyo
[3]. The concern for cattle and wildlife drinking any pooled water in the contaminated area
prompted the local water utility to sample the surface water at the site. The water utility reported
that methylene chloride was found at 44 ppb and 12 ppb in the surface water samples [1]. The
Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for methylene chloride in drinking water is 5 ppb. The area
around the pit is now fenced and cattle and most wildlife have no access to the standing water.
Under a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Tohono
O'odham Nation plans to conduct an environmental investigation of the Choulic Gravel Pit [7]. The results of the environmental investigation will provide more information about the types and
levels of contaminants associated with the site. This contaminant data can serve as the basis for a
more definitive public health evaluation of the site.
Page last reviewed: January 25, 2010
Page last updated: January 25, 2010 | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/19500 | High Point Regional and Duke Medicine
High Point Regional Health System Announces Relationship with Duke Medicine for Heart and Cancer Care
HIGH POINT, N.C. – High Point Regional Health System and Duke Medicine have entered into a unique agreement to expand program development and operational support for oncology and cardiovascular patient care programs. The two health care leaders together will provide unparalleled research and clinical care expertise to the Triad and surrounding communities.
The High Point/Duke relationship was formed to further enhance the nationally recognized cardiac and cancer programs at High Point Regional Health System and provide a new opportunity for further clinical development. “After exploring several opportunities for a clinical affiliation with medical centers around the state and region, we found Duke Medicine to be the right fit,” said Jeffrey S. Miller, president of High Point Regional Health System. “This means our patients benefit from the very best of both treatment facilities, close to home.”
The new agreement will provide the hospital with access to the clinical, operational and clinical research expertise of Duke Medicine, which is known for cardiology and oncology clinical care and research programs considered among the best in the nation, to enhance the cardiology and oncology services it offers to the community. Duke will provide support for quality and patient safety systems and clinical program development. Utilizing Duke’s extensive clinical research programs in cardiology and oncology, hospital-based research programs will be developed and expanded offering area patients new and innovative treatment protocols through clinical trial opportunities.
“Duke University Health System has a long history of supporting community hospitals in meeting the needs of their patients and improving the health of populations throughout North Carolina,” said William J. Fulkerson, Jr., MD, Executive Vice President of Duke University Health System.. “We look forward to strengthening our relationship with a quality organization like High Point Regional Health System and its dedicated leadership, medical staff and employees.”
By entering into this relationship, High Point Regional Health System joins a network of Duke-affiliated hospitals and health systems in communities throughout North and South Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, and Florida. A truly comprehensive facility, Carolina Regional Heart Center contains every component of heart care under one roof. Featuring a vast array of services focused on diagnosis, treatment, and education about cardiovascular disease, the center houses the cardiac catheterization lab, a medically directed fitness center, and the cardiac rehab program. “Our program has maintained a high level of quality that sets us apart from the competition,” said Zan Tyson, MD, medical director of the Carolina Regional Heart Center. “Duke joining our team will mean we have access to emerging technologies quicker which will benefit our patients.”
“Patient care is a team sport – it does not depend on any one single person. The relationship of the best community oncology program in the Triad with the best oncology program in the State is an incredible match. Patients will be the real beneficiaries of the positive energy this relationship creates,” said Bernard Chinnasami, MD, medical director, Hayworth Cancer Center.
Hayworth Cancer Center was the first cancer center in NC to offer all oncology services under one roof (radiation, outpatient chemotherapy, inpatient care, CT/PET scans, clinical research, and supportive care), maximizing convenience for patients and families. According to U.S. News & World Report, Hayworth Cancer Center at High Point Regional Hospital was ranked number one in the Triad for the 3rd consecutive year in 2011. About Duke Medicine
A world-renowned academic health care system, Duke Medicine strives to improve health care locally and globally through innovative research, education, patient care, and outreach. As one of the nation’s preeminent health care providers, Duke Medicine serves patients from the Southeast, the United States, and far beyond, with a total of more than 61,000 inpatient stays and 1.8 million outpatient visits annually across the Duke University Health System. U.S. News & World Report consistently ranks Duke University Medical Center in the top 10 on its Honor Roll of “America’s Best Hospitals”—with a complete range of nationally ranked specialty services.
About High Point Regional
As part of a not-for-profit Health System governed by a volunteer, community-based board of trustees, High Point Regional offers a wide variety of inpatient and outpatient care. High Point Regional, the largest piece of the Health System, offers 384 private beds for medical and surgical patients and has its foundation in six primary service areas: Carolina Regional Heart Center, The Hayworth Cancer Center, The Neuroscience Center, The Women's Center, The Emergency Center and The Piedmont Joint Replacement Center.
High Point Regional’s mission is to provide exceptional health services to the people of this region. For more information, visit www.HighPointRegional.com.
For Immediate Release: January 19, 2012
Contact: Tracie Blackmon (336) 442-9064
High Point Regional Health System | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/19787 | ← Diabetes Disaster Plan
Vitamin E for Your Fatty Liver →
Who the Empowered Health Seekers Are
June 2nd, 2010 · No Comments
The odds are that you haven’t yet fully empowered your search for good health. I know this about you because a couple of months ago HealthCentral surveyed 2,888 of its registered members who have one of eight chronic conditions, including diabetes, and who completed the study. And in this respect at least people with diabetes are just like the people with the other seven chronic conditions.
HealthCentral CEO Christopher M. Schroeder and James E. Burroughs, associate professor of commerce at the University of Virginia, presented their findings at the DTC National Conference in Washington, D.C. earlier this month and shared them with me. After asking the people in the survey all sorts of standard psychological assessments, they found that about 30 percent of us take an active role in our health care plan. If you are in this group, one of your characteristics is that you are energized and engaged when you need to learn new tasks or master new subjects — you are what the survey calls a person with a need for cognition. If you are an empowered health seeker, the other characteristic you have is self-confidence — you have, in the formal terminology of the survey, high self-efficacy.
You can click to view the study, “Understanding What Motivates the Empowered Patient,” here. Mr. Schroeder and Professor Burroughs prepared it in association with Ted Smith, Ph.D., HealthCentral’s executive vice president for research.
My posts here at HealthCentral and your many comments are just one small corner of this huge health resource. HealthCentral is a collection of condition and wellness websites providing clinical information, tools, and mobile applications. Its sites provide a platform for more than 3,000 bloggers, 200 expert patients, and more than 12 million monthly visitors sharing real-life experiences about specific conditions.
But those who are empowered are less than a third of of the registered members that HealthCentral surveyed. These are the people who ask for treatment and prepare for their doctor appointments. Then, half fall into the “traditional mainstream” category of people who have a low need for cognition and yet have high self-efficacy. Finally, 20 percent fall in the “traditional resistant” category with both a low need for cognition and low self-efficacy.
These proportions surprised me. I had always though that most of you already took charge of your health care, working with your doctor as co-pilots or co-authors of your health treatment. But that’s just one of the survey’s surprises.
For starters, I was surprised that nobody ever did a survey like this before. “Lots of people have been talking about this concept that people are taking greater and greater control of their lives and health,” Mr. Schroeder told me in an interview. “We all know anecdotally that this is true, but we weren’t able to find any hard research or data about what is driving the empowered patient — who these people are and why they do what they do and what influence they have. We discovered that this is the first all-out investigation of who the empowered patient is, why they do what they do, and what potential ramifications this will have on health care. That’s why we commissioned it.”
This in turn presented even more surprises. Empowerment revolves much more around personality than education or income level.
This not only surprised me but it also surprised Mr. Schroeder. “That is the biggest surprise that I had,” he told me. “I had a belief that empowered people would be people who had a little bit more time available for them, a little more resources. They might have had graduate degrees or at least more education and viewed themselves in this way. And our study showed unbelievably clearly that this has nothing to do with one’s demographic or where they come from or what education they have had or how much money they make.”
They care a lot about what they are wrestling with or thinking about, Mr. Schroeder continued. They also strongly believe that they have a role to play in the outcome of things that they engage in and feel that they have almost an obligation — certainly a concern — that they not only empower themselves but also empower others. They try to influence other people to realize the benefits of stepping up and taking control of something that is as important to them as their health.
The researchers were curious about how the empowered health seekers could motivate or influence others to empower themselves. The learned that a patronizing approach doesn’t cut it. Talking down to them backfires.
But empowered health seekers can influence a good part of the 50 percent in the traditional mainstream category by appealing to their need for understanding and their desire to be addressed in a direct, straightforward manner. What sways them is common sense.
But making a human connection is just as important as the logic. People in the second and third categories can learn to take control of their health not only from the experts but also from people who have been there and are trying to figure out how to live their lives on a day-to-day basis. “That’s my biggest take-away,” Mr. Schroeder says.
The exciting thing is that these second and third groups of people — many of whom are already taking steps in the direction of the first group — get encouragement from the empowered health seekers, he says. “I would be willing to put down a significant bet that if we do the study again in two years you will see the empowered group grow rapidly as that central group gets more and more confident as part of the reality of what it means to take on their health. If other studies prove anything, it is that the more people are engaged, the more that people are helping each other, the outcomes are almost always better. Almost a third are already proactive, but well over half are stepping up on ways unimagined even a few years ago. And more and more are moving that way.”
Empowered health seekers are at the forefront of change in how people can take control of their own health. The key phrase that Mr. Schroeder uses is that “people are helping each other.” You can made a difference not only in your own lives but also in the lives of many other people who have diabetes.
This is a mirror of one of my articles that Health Central published. You can navigate to that site to find my most recent articles.
Tags: diabetes, Diabetes Management, Diabetes Research, diabetes treatmentPosted in: Psychosocial
Vitamin E for Your Fatty LiverThe Trouble with Naps Intensive Glucose Control WorksStudy: Healthy Fasting Reduces Risk of Heart Disease, DiabetesEmbrace Diabetes Support Groups for a Healthy LifestyleWhich Blood for Checking GlucoseMedical Marijuana for DiabetesIndigenous DiabetesMeeting the tiniBoy Lancet Inventor in KoreaTest Strips and Meters from South Korea | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/19828 | Should Your Herbalist Be Certified?
Herbalists seek to define standards and who should impose them.
http://www.motherearthliving.com/Health-and-Wellness/Should-your-herbalist-be-certified.aspx
By Laurel Vukovic
If you were searching for an herbalist, how would you go about finding one? “In a perfect world, every community would have an herbalist who everyone knew and trusted,” says Aviva Jill Romm, executive director of the American Herbalists Guild (AHG) and the guild’s director of education and certification. Not long ago, lay herbalists tended the well-being of their communities without concern of credentials or certification. An herbalist was judged solely by his or her skill as a healer. Yet today, our society is dominated by credentials, says Romm, and community herbalists can be hard to find. Brigitte Mars, a longtime Boulder, Colorado-based herbalist, author, and faculty member at the Rocky Mountain Center for Botanical Studies, agrees. “If I wanted to find an herbalist, I would contact the American Herbalists Guild for a referral to a qualified practitioner,” Mars says.
But Rosemary Gladstar, founder of the California School of Herbal Studies and a well-known educator, writer, and activist in the herbal community, has a different point of view. “I would never choose a healer according to whether or not they had credentials. I’d find someone through word of mouth,” says Gladstar.
Up to this point, there has been no certifying organization for U.S. herbalists, and no standards for the practice of herbalism. The AHG wants to change that and is actively working to establish educational guidelines and a process of both registration and certification for herbalists. This raises a red flag for some herbalists who believe that certification will be detrimental to the practice of herbal medicine.
“I don’t think there’s anything that fires the herbal community up more than this controversy,” says Gladstar. “The decisions made about these issues will have a tremendous and far-reaching effect on the future of herbalism.”
The AHG was founded in 1989 with the intention of developing a professional organization for herbalists specializing in medical herbalism. Its stated purpose was to unify practitioners and to serve the public by raising the standards of herbal medicine and ensuring the competency of herbalists. From the beginning, though, there has been dissension around the issue of certification. Although the final plans for registration and certification are still in the works, the AHG intends to make both available by the end of this year. Meanwhile, the controversy continues.
“Many people are concerned about what certification implies,” says Roy Upton, vice president of the AHG and the legislative coordinator for the organization. “And some people have an inherent distrust of anything organized.”
According to the AHG’s plan, the title of “registered herbalist” will replace (and be equivalent to) its present designation of “professional member.” Currently, professional members undergo a review process by a group of peers who evaluate their education, experience, and training. Applicants must also demonstrate a minimum of four years of experience in working with clients and submit three letters of reference from professional herbalists.
“Certified clinical herbalist” is another title that registered herbalists or other health professionals such as naturopaths, physicians, nurses, Traditional Chinese Medical practitioners, or Ayurvedic practitioners may choose to pursue with the AHG. Applicants for this certification must pass a comprehensive exam that tests their knowledge of Western herbal medicine.
“This is specifically for people who want certification in Western botanical medicine,” says Romm. “We’re not in any way saying that a certified herbalist is more skilled than a noncertified herbalist, or that one has to be an AHG member to be a competent practitioner. We simply want to provide a way for an herbal practitioner to demonstrate competency in this one particular form of botanical medicine.”
Will the standards be biased?
“My belief is that it’s the caring of the healer that’s most important, but no one’s going to be able to test for that.”—Stephen Buhner, herbalist Herbalists wary of certification maintain that the practice of herbalism is an art as well as a skill, and as such, it cannot and should not be regulated in any way. Despite the care taken by the AHG to make clear its policy of nondiscrimination, opponents are concerned that the AHG is proposing standards that will inevitably create prejudice against herbalists who are not certified. Stephen Buhner, herbalist, author, and a former lobbyist on licensure issues related to herbalism and alternative medicine, is strongly opposed to certification and the educational standards that the AHG is proposing.
Buhner feels that the AHG is trying to institute a Western medical paradigm, but he doesn’t believe that a knowledge of Western medical science is fundamental to the practice of herbalism. “Human beings have used herbs for at least 60,000 years without a knowledge of biochemistry. The truth is that we don’t really know how and why herbs work,” he says.
Buhner adds that some people have made the assumption that a knowledge of biochemistry is essential for someone to be a good healer. “My belief is that it’s the caring of the healer that’s most important, but no one’s going to be able to test for that,” he says. “I think it’s fine for people to practice who are interested in biochemistry and physiology, but I also want to make sure that people who aren’t interested in Western medical science will still be free to practice.”
Christopher Hobbs, L.Ac., an herbalist, author, and educator, is in favor of certification but believes there are problems inherent in creating a test for certification. “If we adhere solely to the intellectual model of learning facts by rote, we automatically put some people, perhaps potentially good herbalists, at a disadvantage,” says Hobbs. “Just as some people are bright in the usual sense of intellectual prowess, some have a high ‘E.Q.,’ or emotional quotient. They are attuned to the more subtle, even esoteric clues that lead to insights that facilitate healing.”
According to Romm, the guild has no intention of excluding anyone. “We are working hard to make sure that we are respectful of multiple routes of entry, study, and practice. At the same time, we want to establish a meaningful standard,” she says. “We are upholding a standard of excellence, not one of exclusion.”
The certification exam proposed by the AHG is meant for those who are actively practicing herbal medicine. “It gives them a reference for where they are in their own set of skills and provides direction for areas they need to work on,” says Upton. “Our whole idea has been to increase our levels of professionalism, competency, and skill in what we do.”
Gladstar believes the intentions of the guild are good but questions the paradigm they are adopting for certification. “They are emulating the model used by most of our modern world, and I don’t see that it’s worked very well,” Gladstar notes. “It’s a model that hasn’t benefited the healing community or the people choosing healers. No matter what the intentions of the guild are, once the AHG standards are in place, it will force people to either join the ranks or become renegades.”
As one of the pioneers of the U.S. herbal renaissance that took place in the 1960s, Gladstar was instrumental in bringing herbalists together for gatherings at Oregon’s Breitenbush Hot Springs, where the seeds of the idea for forming a guild of herbalists were first planted. Yet she has resisted becoming a member.
“I never joined AHG, although many of the people involved are among my closest friends,” she says. “My not joining is my way of making a statement that it’s not necessary to join an organization to practice as an herbalist. You can do this work and be effective without being sanctioned by an organization.”
Romm concedes that certification doesn’t guarantee that someone will be a competent healer. “This is well demonstrated by our current medical system with its high numbers of [medically] caused injuries and deaths,” she says. “However, a credential does provide a guide for those seeking the care of an herbalist. Credentials offer some assurance that an herbalist has at least met a specific standard of education, knowledge, and experience.”
Romm adds that the AHG gets calls daily from its members, health professionals, consumers, and regulatory agencies requesting information about certification or certified practitioners. “We have people calling who want to know how to obtain a recognizable credential in botanical medicine, and calls from people seeking credentialed practitioners,” she explains. “We are responding to their needs.”
Some believe that certification will give herbalists more recognition by the current health-care system and that physicians, pharmacists, and hospital administrators want to see a traditional training and testing process akin to what they are accustomed to in the medical and pharmaceutical professions.
“We need community herbalists who are free to practice without fear of retribution, and we need trained herbalists in hospitals who are able to integrate herbs with standardpractice medical care,” Hobbs argues. “This will allow many millions of people to have access to high-quality natural health care, herbal medicine, and wellness-oriented practitioners. The certification process is beneficial because it will impel us to take a deeper look into how herbal medicine can serve the people, how it can work best with the dominant medical disease-care system, and perhaps reorient us toward more emphasis on prevention of disease and true health care.”
Opponents of certification fear it could lead to the same situation that occurred when the American Medical Association (AMA) rose to power and tried to suppress all other healing traditions. “Theoretically, eventually some state is going to pass a law regulating herbalists, and they may adopt the standards set forth by the AHG,” says Upton. “But we have a strong legislative position that we will oppose any legislation that would limit the practice of herbal medicine or the use of herbs to any one group, including certified herbalists.”
First and foremost, Upton believes, herbal medicine has to remain medicine for the common people. “We can’t turn it into a hierarchy like the AMA that stifles all other types of health care. We believe that naturopaths, lay herbalists, traditional cueranderos, Native American herbalists, traditional Chinese herbalists, Ayurvedic herbalists—all should be allowed to practice.”
The AHG position is that all practitioners are complementary to one other, Upton explains. “Everyone needs to know what their limitations are and needs to know when it’s appropriate to refer a patient to someone else.”
“If there are going to be some controls set on the practice of herbalism, then let it come from herbalists and not from doctors or some other outside group.”—Aviva Romm, AHG executive director Regulations and restrictions
Buhner, along with others who are opposed to certification, is concerned about what he sees as the next logical step following AHG certification: state regulation and restrictions on practice.
“For herbalists to be free to work, each state would have to recognize their profession in some fashion. Usually, the state legislature in question would pass a law that says that only licensed, certified, or registered herbalists can practice. And the only way they will do this is if they are convinced there is the potential for harm, and that they need to enact legislation to protect consumers,” Buhner says.
“We’re not moving in that direction,” counters Upton. “At some point, some group in a particular state might seek licensure of medical herbalists. But our key fundamental principle is that the guild will actively oppose any legislation that would suggest that a nonlicensed person could not practice herbalism.” Upton doesn’t think that herbalists will have to be licensed to be part of the current health-care system. He cites registered dietitians as an example of a professional group that has managed to avoid licensure by establishing standards for themselves. ‘We can do the same thing. With certification and registration, we don’t give up our power or autonomy. We decide on our own set of standards, and eventually, we will be recognized by the state,” he says.
Gladstar believes that the AHG is listening to those who oppose certification, and she acknowledges that the AHG is continually trying to adapt what they are creating to take those concerns into consideration. “But I see them still trying to use the old health-care system model that is currently in place that isn’t working,” she says. “We don’t need to repeat the mistakes that have already been made. Instead, we need to look for new solutions. This is a big issue, and it’s important that people speak up about their feelings now because things are being put into place that won’t be able to be changed later.”
Buhner favors using the same type of legislation for herbalists that has been enacted in Colorado and Washington to regulate the practice of psychotherapy, and a recent Minnesota law that grants freedom of practice to a wide variety of alternative health-care practitioners. In those states, the legislature says that anyone can set up a practice. But they do require that anyone who wants to practice has to be registered with the state (which is done by filing a form), and that everyone who practices has to have clients sign an informed consent statement. Informed consent means that a client is provided with a written statement disclosing the practitioner’s professional training and experience; standards of practice; expectations for both parties; fees and policies; and information as to how a client can file a grievance.
Who will set the standards?
The AHG already encourages its professional members to practice informed consent and full disclosure. “This means that I give a client a piece of paper that tells how I learned about herbs, what I believe I can do, what services I can provide, my expectations of them, and what they can expect from me. I make it clear that I am not a medical doctor and that my suggestions are not to take the place of their doctor’s advice,” explains Upton. The intent, he stresses, is to clarify the relationship between a practitioner and client and to avoid possible misunderstandings that can lead to legal action.
“We definitely support informed consent and full disclosure, but to codify this would require a law—and then we change from being a self-certifying body to being certified by the government, and things can get scary,” Upton says. “The more we can keep the government out of the process, the better it will be for our profession.”
The AHG is definitely interested in hearing what people have to say about certification and registration, Romm says. “If the consensus in the herbal community is not to have certification, that’s fine with me,” she says. Romm is currently working for certification because that’s what she hears the majority of people—professionals, students, and clients—want. The other primary reason is that establishing some kind of standards appears inevitable.
“It’s a question of whether we do it for ourselves, or whether someone makes those decisions for us,” she says. “If there are going to be some controls set on the practice of herbalism, then let it come from herbalists and not from doctors, naturopaths, nurses, pharmacists, or some other outside group. One of the stated goals of the AHG is to increase communication and cooperation among herbalists. We heartily invite those who wish to participate in shaping the direction of herbalism to get involved. The future of herbal medicine in this country is in part, what we make of it. We have a terrific opportunity to work together to achieve planetary wellness.”
For more information, contact the American Herbalists Guild, 1931 Gaddis Road, Canton, GA 30115; (770) 751-6021; www.americanherbalist.com. | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/20024 | PONY POSTAL CENTER REMEMBER WHEN ANTIQUES HAGERSTOWN AUCTIONS Recent Articles >> Good Health
Reishi Mushroom Offers Hope for Living Healthier Longer1/13/2013Reishi Mushroom Offers Hope for Living Healthier Longer
(NAPS)-When most people think about longevity, they don't usually think about the immune system. Without the ability to fight off infections and abnormal cells, however, they wouldn't live very long. This is where the reishi mushroom comes into play.
It's been used for thousands of years and flourishes mainly on the trunks of plum trees. It's very scarce, however...out of 10,000 plum trees, perhaps two or three will have reishi growth.
Today, there are over 5,000 studies documenting the health benefits of the six primary types of reishi-red, black, blue, white, yellow and purple. Traditionally, black and red reishi have been credited with the most significant health-enhancing effects. Black and Red Reishi Activate Immune Cells
Reishi's immune-enhancing properties are probably the most notable. Reishi is used to fight immuno_senescence-the loss of immune function that comes with age. Aging adults produce fewer white blood cells-the immune cells responsible for fighting against bacteria, viruses and abnormal cells.
According to Michael Smith, M.D., senior health science specialist with Life Extension in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and host of Healthy Talk radio on WWNN-AM, reishi mushroom extract can increase production of white blood cells from your bone marrow.
"Not only that, reishi helps to activate dendritic cells," says Dr. Smith. "These cells present bacterial and viral antigens like to antibody-producing cells called B cells. As a result, you're able to effectively fight infections before getting too sick. And if you do happen to get sick, you'll feel better faster with more antibodies on board."
Intrinsic Antioxidants
Reishi mushrooms are also believed to activate intrinsic antioxidants, helping to reduce oxidative stress, one of the leading theories of aging. Highly reactive oxygen compounds, generated from environmental toxins and normal cellular metabolism, bind to healthy cells and tissues, causing damage.
Naturally occurring compounds in reishi can boost intrinsic anti_oxidants, sequestering the damaging oxygen compounds and preserving healthy cell and tissue function. In animal models, reishi was shown to increase the intrinsic antioxidant activity of plasma glutathione by 34 to 42 percent, liver catalase by 19 to 30 percent and liver glutathione by 9 percent.
Boosting liver antioxidants, such as catalase and peroxidase, is considered an extremely important strategy for living longer, given the toxic environment. The EPA estimates that over 70,000 industrial chemicals are used in the U.S. "And if that's not enough to make you sick," says Dr. Smith, "government scientists estimate the average American has over 700 chemicals in his or her blood- stream at any given time." Living Healthier Longer
A weak immune system and high levels of oxidative stress are counterproductive to living health_ier longer. For many, reishi mushroom extract offers real hope for reversing these two aging processes. The reishi mushroom extract complex delivers powerful compounds and represents the next generation of natural immune support. For more information about reishi mushroom extract, visit www.LEF.org/reishi or call 1-866-748-7542. Editor's Note: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/20145 | Search the Newsroom:
Profile by Sanford launches in Sioux Falls
Program offers research-based method for weight management
(Sioux Falls, SD) – Sanford Health has introduced an integrated approach to weight management. Profile by Sanford was designed using a large body of clinical research to ensure a sustainable means to healthy weight loss.
The Profile system utilizes meal-replacement products, nutritionally complete food and qualified health coaches. In addition to members consuming both Profile-produced and grocery-store food, coaches develop customized plans for their clients and offer advice on nutrition, exercise and behavior.
A clinical and scientific advisory board comprised of 10 Sanford physicians and researchers oversaw the development of the Profile system. “Profile by Sanford is endorsed by our physicians and researchers and is rooted in scientific research,” said Rich Adcock, president of Sanford Frontiers, which developed the system. “Obesity is a national epidemic; Profile is our way of lending a hand in the fight.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 60 percent of the U.S. population is considered overweight or obese.
In addition to face-to-face meetings, coaches are able to efficiently track members’ progress through the use of smart wireless technology. Each member is outfitted with wireless devices to measure progress, including tools to track body weight and measurement, blood pressure and step count and intensity (exercise). These devices automatically upload to a secure server, where members and coaches can monitor improvement on the web or mobile applications. Printed options are also available to members.
“As a physician, I witness firsthand the health complications that accompany obesity,” said Michael Wilde, MD, who is part of the clinical and scientific advisory board. “The Profile system will not only help members lose weight but also develop habits for a healthier lifestyle.”
Profile by Sanford is now open at 401 W 69th Street in Sioux Falls. Additional locations are planned for Sioux Falls and Fargo. To learn more, visit profileplan.net.
Sanford Health is an integrated health system headquartered in the Dakotas and is now the largest, rural, not-for-profit health care system in the nation with locations in 126 communities in eight states. In addition, Sanford Health is in the process of developing international clinics in Ireland, Ghana, Israel and Mexico.
Sanford Health includes 35 hospitals, 140 clinic locations and 1,200 physicians in 70 specialty areas of medicine. With more than 25,000 employees, Sanford Health is the largest employer in North and South Dakota. The system is experiencing dynamic growth and development in conjunction with Denny Sanford's nearly $700 million in gifts, the largest ever to a health care organization in America. These gifts are making possible the implementation of several initiatives including global children's clinics, multiple research centers and finding cures for type 1 diabetes and breast cancer. For more information, please visit sanfordhealth.org.
Sanford Media Strategist – Sioux Falls Region
(605) 366-2432 / timothy.gerszewski@sanfordhealth.org
Follow me on Twitter @SanfordTimG | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/20245 | LeadershipSt. Jude LeadershipALSAC LeadershipBoards of Directors and GovernorsExternal Advisory Boards
Boards of Directors and GovernorsALSAC-St. Jude Children’s Research HospitalThe Board’s Role
Governing the organizations by establishing broad policies and objectives
Selecting, appointing, supporting, and reviewing the performance of the chief executive officers
Insuring the availability of adequate financial resources
Approving annual budgets and strategic planning
Accounting for the ethics, compliance, and performance of the organizations
ALSAC Board of Directors - Officers
Richard (Rich) M. Unes, Chairman
Paul J. Ayoub, First Vice Chair
James B. Barkate, Second Vice Chair
Fred R. Harris, Secretary
St. Jude Board of Governors - Officers
Terry Burman, Chairman
Martha Perine Beard, First Vice Chair
Camille Sarrouf Jr., Second Vice Chair
Fred P. Gattas Jr., Secretary
Ex-Officios
James Downing, MD, President and Chief Executive Officer, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
Richard C. Shadyac, Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer, ALSAC
Executive Administrator to the Board
Helen B. Wood, Executive Administrator to the Board
View a complete list of members of the ALSAC-St. Jude Boards of Directors and Governors
Audit Committee - Its primary function is to assist the Board in fulfilling their oversight responsibilities by reviewing the financial information which will be provided to any governmental body or the public; the systems of internal controls and policies which management and the Board have established; and accounting, auditing, and financial processes; and the effectiveness of the Corporate Compliance Program to support the vision and mission statement of ALSAC and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Compensation Committee - The primary function is to assist the Boards of Directors and Governors in fulfilling their oversight responsibilities by articulating and implementing the compensation philosophy for executives at St. Jude and ALSAC.
Conflict of Interest Committee - The primary function is to advise and assist St. Jude and ALSAC in maintaining high ethical standards and complying with applicable laws related to conflicts of interest and oversee conflict of interest issues of officers, directors, and certain covered employees.
Oversee the financial affairs of ALSAC and St. Jude including: The development and implementation of sound fiscal policies and management practices, of ALSAC and St. Jude both individually and on a consolidated basis; and
The annual and strategic/long-range budgeting process of ALSAC and St. Jude.
Approve and monitor the annual budgeted revenues and expenses, operational and capital, of ALSAC and St. Jude as well as the financial strategic plans of ALSAC and St. Jude.
Governance Committee - The primary function is to identify, evaluate and recommend best practices of governance that will enhance the effectiveness of the Board and assist the Board in developing, monitoring, and evaluating the Board’s governance policies and procedures. p>
Investment Committee - The committee’s primary functions are the formulation, implementation and ongoing oversight of those coherent policies designed to best serve the long-term financial objectives of the institution.
Legal and Compliance Committee - The Legal and Compliance Committee assists the Board in overseeing all material legal activities and the continuing compliance with all laws, regulations and rules affecting the conduct and operation of the organization’s affairs and operations in a manner that promotes the organization’s purpose and mission statement. This assistance shall include discussion with the appropriate staff at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital/ALSAC and reporting same to the Board, where appropriate.
Marketing Committee - Support efforts to ensure that marketing and outreach efforts at ALSAC and St. Jude are well integrated from both a strategic planning and implementation standpoint, and reflect one voice in reinforcing our brand positioning.
Membership Committee - The purpose of the committee is to develop and administer a membership selection and evaluation process for initial appointment and subsequent reappointment to ensure that the Board will be comprised of a broad range of competencies, diversity and expertise to ensure its effectiveness.
Nominating Committee - Reviews all board members of both ALSAC and St. Jude so that appropriate nominations are made by the committee for recommending officers to the Boards.
Quality Assurance & Patient Care Committee - The committee performs due diligence for the Board of Governors to provide oversight of the performance of patient care by the clinical staff, and to serve as liaison to the Board for all issues that deal with the care of patients, and the safety of patients’ families and staff. The Quality Assurance & Patient Care Committee has a responsibility to report to the Board the quality of care rendered by all health care providers at the institution, and all programs to improve care.
Strategic Planning Committee - Develops and leads a process by which the Board and Management of ALSAC and St. Jude arrive at a shared vision of what the institutions should be in 10-20 years, including broad operating and financial parameters, and to begin a process of which we plan for and achieve that shared vision. | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/20401 | Home Page - Infectious Diseases
Home > Online Library > Home Page - Infectious Diseases > Prevention of Infectious Diseases > Pets and Infectious Diseases
Pets and infectious diseases
Proper care of your pet may prevent him/her from becoming ill and infecting the household. Further, to prevent the spread of disease from your pet, take the following precautions:
Keep your pet's immunizations current.
See a veterinarian regularly with your pet for health checkups.
Keep your pet's bedding and living area clean.
Feed your pet a balanced diet and avoid having your pet eat raw foods or drink out of the toilet.
Clean cat litter boxes every day. Pregnant women should avoid touching cat litter, because it may contain infectious diseases that cause birth defects, including toxoplasmosis.
Wash your hands thoroughly after touching animals or cleaning up animal waste.
Washing hands is especially important after handling reptiles, because reptiles may harbor a bacteria called salmonella. Salmonella can cause salmonellosis, which is characterized by up to a week of diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. Most people who contract salmonella will have symptoms that last from four to seven days and will recover without treatment.
Wild animals and infectious diseases
Wild animals and insects can be carriers for some very serious diseases, including rabies, tetanus, Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, hantavirus, and the plague. Animal bites and scratches, even when they are minor, may become infected and spread bacteria to other parts of the body. Whether the bite is from a family pet or an animal in the wild, scratches and bites may carry disease. Cat scratches, for example, even from a kitten, may carry "cat scratch disease," a bacterial infection. Bites and/or scratches that break the skin are even more likely to become infected.
Immediate care for animal bites
Wash the wound with soap and water under pressure from a faucet, but do not scrub, as this bruises the tissue.
If the bite or scratch is bleeding, apply pressure to it with a clean bandage or towel to stop the bleeding.
Dry the wound and cover it with a sterile dressing, but do not use tape or butterfly bandages, as they can trap harmful bacteria in the wound.
Call your physician or health care professional for guidance in reporting the attack and to determine whether additional treatment, such as antibiotics, a tetanus booster, or rabies vaccination is needed.
If possible, locate the animal that inflicted the wound. Some animals need to be captured, confined, and observed for rabies. Do not try to capture the animal yourself; instead, contact the nearest animal warden or animal control office in your area.
If the animal cannot be found, if the animal was a high-risk species (skunk or bat), or the animal attack was unprovoked, the victim may need a series of rabies shots.
What is rabies?
Rabies is a widespread, viral infection of warm-blooded animals. Caused by a virus in the Rhabdoviridae family, it attacks the nervous system and, once symptoms develop, is 100 percent fatal in animals.
In North America, rabies occurs primarily in skunks, raccoons, foxes, and bats. In some areas, these wild animals infect domestic cats, dogs, and livestock. In the United States, cats are more likely than dogs to be rabid. Generally, rabies is rare in small rodents such as beavers, chipmunks, squirrels, rats, mice, or hamsters. Rabies is also rare in rabbits. In the mid-Atlantic states, where rabies is increasing in raccoons, woodchucks can be rabid.
How does rabies occur?
The rabies virus enters the body either through a cut, scratch, or through mucous membranes (such as the lining of the mouth and eyes), and travels to the central nervous system. Once the infection is established in the brain, the virus travels down the nerves from the brain and multiplies in different organs.
The salivary glands and organs are most important in the spread of rabies from one animal to another. When an infected animal bites another animal, the rabies virus is transmitted through the infected animal's saliva. Scratches by claws of rabid animals are also dangerous because these animals lick their claws.
What are the symptoms of rabies?
The incubation period in humans from the time of exposure to the onset of illness can range anywhere from five days to more than a year, although the average incubation period is about two months. The following are the most common symptoms of rabies. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
Intense thirst, but drinking will induce painful throat spasms
Symptoms of rabies may resemble other medical conditions and problems. Always consult your physician for a diagnosis.
Prevention of Infectious Diseases | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/20434 | Patients & FamiliesEducationResearchCommunity Referring PhysiciansFind a PhysicianDepartments & CentersAbout URMC LibrariesAlumniGiving URMC » Wilmot Cancer Center » Dialogue - Winter 2011 » Research Director's MessageCover Story: Grateful Cancer Survivor Makes Gift to Wilmot Cancer CenterResearchBreast CT Imaging System A Pain-Free Tool to Aid MammogramsMolecular Biologist Gets Wilmot Cancer Center’s Top Scientific HonorCommunityAccomplishmentsCalendarPast Issues (PDF)Wilmot Cancer Center NewsroomPublications Molecular Biologist Gets Wilmot Cancer Center’s Top Scientific Honor
Davey Award presentation highlights 15th annual Scientific Symposium
Dirk Bohmann, Ph.D. (left) receives his award from Jeffrey Davey. The award is named in memory of R. Bruce Davey,
Jeffrey's father.
Dirk Bohmann, Ph.D., an accomplished molecular biologist and geneticist, is the recipient of the 2010 Davey Memorial Award for outstanding cancer research. The award was presented during the James P. Wilmot Cancer Center’s 15th annual Scientific Symposium, which celebrates the leading-edge cancer research of University of Rochester Medical Center physicians and scientists. Bohmann’s research has focused on answering fundamental questions about cancer, aging and metabolic regulation using a tiny, yet fascinatingly complex organism – Drosophila – more commonly known as the fruit fly.
Bohmann, is director of the Center for Genomics and Systems Biology and the Graduate Program for Genetics, Genomics and Development and a professor of Biomedical Genetics.
He began his career looking at the extensive cell signaling processes that contribute to cancer in people. One of his early successes was the identification of a human proto oncogene known as c-jun that is now widely studied. He switched to Drosophila because they’re simpler and easier to study, yet rely on much of the exact same signaling to develop, grow and function as humans do. The hope is that studies in fruit flies will provide new insights and ideas that can help to solve complex questions about human cancer. Recently, scientists in his lab used the fruit fly’s metamorphosis from maggot to flying insect as a guide to identify a mechanism that may control tissue remodeling, a process that can be hijacked by cancers to transform functional tissues into malignant ones. His work, published in Developmental Cell, identifies a molecule that is critical for determining how cells invade and create new tissues. Similar tissue invasion processes that make cancer so deadly have proven very difficult for scientists to understand in enough depth to interrupt or stop the spread of cancer. Bohmann received his Ph.D. in biology from the University of Tübingen in 1986, worked as a post-doc at University of California at Berkeley, and was senior scientist at the European Molecular Biology Laboratory in Heidelberg before joining the University in 2001.
The Davey Memorial Award for Outstanding Cancer Research was established in memory of R. Bruce Davey, who was treated for cancer before his death in 1996. His wife, Linda Wells Davey, and sons, Peter and Jeffrey, created their own significant way to join Rochester’s fight against cancer. Linda Wells Davey was a founding member of the Cancer Center Board, dedicated to advancing local research and care, and served as its first chair. The Daveys are true partners in the effort to promote community recognition of the Wilmot Cancer Center and the outstanding contributions each doctor, nurse, scientist and support staff member makes to improve cancer care and find cures.
Wilmot Cancer Center Calendar of Events Hat Day
Friday, April 1 4th annual Meaghan’s Run 5K
Discovery Ball | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/20507 | All posts Weekly support group provides social network to seniors
Every week for the past two years, a group of a dozen senior citizens has gathered at Weiss. They sip coffee and chat—initially about their weeks, but as the hour-long meetings progress, they delve into deeper issues. They discuss their dreams, fears, and the ups and downs of getting older. The group initially formed for seniors coping with chronic illness, but it has evolved into a support group for all seniors—chronically ill or not. “We got to know each other, and everyone had revealed so many personal, private, secret things that we became close friends,” said Susan*, one of the members of the current “Senior Care Support Group.” Two interns, students from the social work master’s program at Loyola University in Chicago, run the meetings. “It’s important because for a lot of older adults, their social circles begin to narrow as they age. This gives them a chance to connect anew with people,” said Caitrin Connolly, one of the interns. Her colleague Sha’rika Wilson agreed. “It gives them something to look forward to, something to do, and people to talk to.” They begin each weekly meeting by asking everyone to share one good thing and one challenging thing about their week. Often, tips come out of these discussions. For example, one week, a group member might share that he had a difficult time finding fresh vegetables within his budget, but another group member will know which grocery stores have the best deals. After everyone shares, they discuss one major question, different each week, such as: What is your dream or fantasy vacation? What is your therapy—self-soothing/relaxation techniques? “We always take home some information that’s useful to us. Whether it’s coping, buying something or going to a museum that’s free—little tips that make your life easier,” Susan said. The seniors appreciate being able to help each other and accept advice in return. Many have built solid friendships within the group, and go to eat or to museums together outside of the meetings. “A lot of people have really blossomed,” said Connolly. “Almost everyone in the group is single, divorced or widowed. It’s people who are really trying to branch out.” Group member Betty* has been part of the group for two years and said she comes back every week for the sense of camaraderie. “It’s an experience where you learn you’re not all alone,” she said. New members are welcome to join the group, which meets every Friday at 11 a.m. Contact the WISE Senior Center for more information, at (773) 564-5666. *Not her real name. Members in the support group requested anonymity because of the personal information discussed in the meetings. Recent Posts | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/20532 | HomeAbout UsNews & MediaIn the NewsAwards/RecognitionBest Place to Work
News & MediaIn the NewsAwards/RecognitionIn the CommunityEventsMaking a DifferenceSupporting Winchester HospitalPublicationsAnnual ReportContact UsPhone DirectoryJoin Our Mailing ListEvents CalendarMedical Staff OfficeOur HistoryHospital AuxilariesWinton ClubFriends of Winchester HospitalHospital LeadershipBoard of DirectorsSenior Management TeamVendor InformationCode of Business Conduct
Winchester Hospital Named No. 9 Best Place to Work Winchester Hospital has been named No. 9 on Boston Business Journal’s 2013 Best Places to Work in Massachusetts list in the large company category for excellence in employee satisfaction, working conditions and company culture. Winchester Hospital has been recognized in all 12 years of the program’s existence, twice with the No. 1 ranking. This year, more than 400 companies qualified for consideration. Companies were evaluated on the results of satisfaction surveys, which included questions about work environment, work-life balance, job satisfaction, advancement opportunities, management, and compensation and benefits. The survey project was launched by Boston Business Journal in conjunction with market research firm Quantum Workplace of Omaha, Neb. “To be considered one of the best places to work in Massachusetts is truly an honor," said Kevin Smith, president and chief executive officer of Winchester Hospital. "Our entire team goes above and beyond every day in support of our patients and each other. That's what makes Winchester Hospital a great place to work." “Companies on our list can be justifiably proud of creating a high level of workplace satisfaction during an economy where traditional rewards like big raises and bonuses aren't as easy to give,” said Chris McIntosh, publisher of the Boston Business Journal. “In good times and in bad, our results validate how the creation of the right corporate culture can create powerful business advantages. Employees are proud to work for companies that are about more than just business.” Winchester Hospital, along with 59 other winners in three categories – small (20-100 employees), midsize (101-500 employees) and large (more than 500 employees) – are profiled in Boston Business Journal’s special June 13 supplement. About Winchester Hospital Winchester Hospital is the first hospital in Massachusetts to earn Magnet recognition, the American Nurses Association’s highest honor for nursing excellence, three times. As the northwest suburban Boston area’s leading provider of comprehensive health care services, the 229-bed facility provides care in general, bariatric and vascular surgery, orthopedics, pediatrics, cardiology, pulmonary medicine, oncology, gastroenterology, rehabilitation, radiation oncology, pain management, obstetrics/gynecology and a Level IIB Special Care Nursery. Winchester Hospital has clinical affiliations with several nationally recognized hospitals in the region, including Boston Children’s Hospital, Tufts Medical Center and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. To learn more, visit www.winchesterhospital.org. | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/20673 | Search the NIDA Archives
Evaluation of the National Youth Anti-Drug Media Campaign - Executive Summary
The number one goal of The National Drug Control Strategy is to "Educate and enable Americas youth to reject illegal drugs as well as alcohol and tobacco." Objectives in support of that goal include "Pursue a vigorous advertising and public communications program dealing with the dangers of drug, alcohol, and tobacco use by youth." Under the Treasury-Postal Appropriations Act of 1998, Congress approved funding (P.L. 105-61) for "a national media campaign to reduce and prevent drug use among young Americans." Pursuant to this act, the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) launched the National Youth Anti-Drug Media Campaign (the Media Campaign).
This program has progressed through three phases of increasing complexity and intensity. Phases I and II are not discussed in this report. ONDCP has other reports available that evaluate those phases. This report focuses on Phase III, which began in September 1999 and is planned to run at least until 2003. An evaluation of Phase III is being conducted under contract to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) by Westat and its subcontractor, the Annenberg School for Communication at the University of Pennsylvania. Funding of the evaluation is provided by ONDCP from the appropriation for the Media Campaign itself. This is the first semi-annual report of the Westat and Annenberg evaluation of Phase III of the Media Campaign.
This report by Westat and Annenberg provides four types of information:
A brief description of the Media Campaigns activities to date;
A review of the logic and approach of the evaluation;
Statistics on the level of exposure to messages achieved by the Media Campaign in the first 9 months of Phase III; and
A description of baseline behaviors, beliefs, attitudes, and intentions of both parents and youth. These descriptions focus on the outcomes that will be monitored over time for possible changes that might be brought about by the Media Campaign.
This report from the Westat and Annenberg evaluation presents a first round of measurement. It includes early estimates of exposure to the Media Campaign, and it identifies anti-drug beliefs and drug use behaviors that will be watched over time both for movement and for their association with exposure. It thus sets the stage for the evaluation. This report contains no findings about the effectiveness of the Media Campaign. Such findings after only 9 months of operation of Phase III of the Media Campaign would be premature. This reflects both substantive and technical concerns. From the substantive perspective, effects are expected to be achieved and measurable after a longer period of Media Campaign operations. From the technical perspective, there would be little confidence in inferences from a simple cross-sectional analysis, without even accompanying evidence for change over time in outcomes.
The first report on tentative analyses of effects will be issued after the next wave of data collection in March 2001. At that time, there will be some evidence presented about changes, if any, in outcome measures like the cognitive variables of interest such as beliefs about the consequences of marijuana use at least once or twice in a lifetime. This evidence about change will be complemented by evidence about association of exposure with the outcome measures. However, it is possible that Media Campaign-produced change will take longer to achieve and/or to detect. Indeed, conclusive evidence will take several years to accumulate and analyze. The final report is scheduled for March 2004. At that time, the sample youth and their parents will have been studied for 3 to 4 years.
Background on the Media Campaign
The Media Campaign has three goals:
Educate and enable America's youth to reject illegal drugs;
Prevent youth from initiating use of drugs, especially marijuana and inhalants; and
Convince occasional users of these and other drugs to stop using drugs.
The Media Campaign targets paid advertising at youth aged 9 to 11, 12 to 13, and 14 to 18, parents of youth in these age ranges, and other influential adults. Phase III advertising is being disseminated through a full range of media or "channels" following a Communications Strategy developed by ONDCP. Phase III also includes components other than advertising. There are partnerships with the media, entertainment and sports industries, as well as civic, professional, and community groups. These other components, which are being coordinated by a public relations firm, include encouraging entertainment programs with anti-drug themes, coverage of the anti-drug campaign in the news media, community activities, corporate co-sponsorship, and special interactive media programming.
ONDCP runs the Media Campaign in collaboration with the following groups:< | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/20705 | Reference > Anatomy of the Human Body > X. The Organs of the Senses and the Common Integument > 1d. 2. The Middle Ear or Tympanic Cavity
1d. 2. The Middle Ear or Tympanic Cavity
(Cavum Tympani; Drum; Tympanum)The middle ear or tympanic cavity is an irregular, laterally compressed space within the temporal bone. It is filled with air, which is conveyed to it from the nasal part of the pharynx through the auditory tube. It contains a chain of movable bones, which connect its lateral to its medial wall, and serve to convey the vibrations communicated to the tympanic membrane across the cavity to the internal ear. 1
The tympanic cavity consists of two parts: the tympanic cavity proper, opposite the tympanic membrane, and the attic or epitympanic recess, above the level of the membrane; the latter contains the upper half of the malleus and the greater part of the incus. Including the attic, the vertical and antero-posterior diameters of the cavity are each about 15 mm. The transverse diameter measures about 6 mm. above and 4 mm. below; opposite the center of the tympanic membrane it is only about 2 mm. The tympanic cavity is bounded laterally by the tympanic membrane; medially, by the lateral wall of the internal ear; it communicates, behind, with the tympanic antrum and through it with the mastoid air cells, and in front with the auditory tube (Fig. 907). 2
The Tegmental Wall or Roof (paries tegmentalis) is formed by a thin plate of bone, the tegmen tympani, which separates the cranial and tympanic cavities. It is situated on the anterior surface of the petrous portion of the temporal bone close to its angle of junction with the squama temporalis; it is prolonged backward so as to roof in the tympanic antrum, and forward to cover in the semicanal for the Tensor tympani muscle. Its lateral edge corresponds with the remains of the petrosquamous suture. 3
The Jugular Wall or Floor (paries jugularis) is narrow, and consists of a thin plate of bone (fundus tympani) which separates the tympanic cavity from the jugular fossa. It presents, near the labyrinthic wall, a small aperture for the passage of the tympanic branch of the glossopharyngeal nerve. 4
The iter chordæ anterius (canal of Huguier) is placed at the medial end of the petrotympanic fissure; through it the chorda tympani nerve leaves the tympanic cavity. 8
The Tympanic Membrane (membrana tympani) (Figs. 909, 910) separates the tympanic cavity from the bottom of the external acoustic meatus. It is a thin, semitransparent membrane, nearly oval in form, somewhat broader above than below, and directed very obliquely downward and inward so as to form an angle of about fifty-five degrees with the floor of the meatus. Its longest diameter is downward and forward, and measures from 9 to 10 mm.; its shortest diameter measures from 8 to 9 mm. The greater part of its circumference is thickened, and forms a fibrocartilaginous ring which is fixed in the tympanic sulcus at the inner end of the meatus. This sulcus is deficient superiorly at the notch of Rivinus, and from the ends of this notch two bands, the anterior and posterior malleolar folds, are prolonged to the lateral process of the malleus. The small, somewhat triangular part of the membrane situated above these folds is lax and thin, and is named the pars flaccida; in it a small orifice is sometimes seen. The manubrium of the malleus is firmly attached to the medial surface of the membrane as far as its center, which it draws toward the tympanic cavity; the lateral surface of the membrane is thus concave, and the most depressed part of this concavity is named the umbo. 9
of the membrane. Branched or dendritic fibers, as pointed out by Grüber, are also present especially in the posterior half of the membrane. 10
Vessels and Nerves.The arteries of the tympanic membrane are derived from the deep auricular branch of the internal maxillary, which ramifies beneath the cutaneous stratum; and from the stylomastoid branch of the posterior auricular, and tympanic branch of the internal maxillary, which are distributed on the mucous surface. The superficial veins open into the external jugular; those on the deep surface drain partly into the transverse sinus and veins of the dura mater, and partly into a plexus on the auditory tube. The membrane receives its chief nerve supply from the auriculotemporal branch of the mandibular; the auricular branch of the vagus, and the tympanic branch of the glossopharyngeal also supply it. 150 11
external, or mucous, derived from the mucous lining of the tympanic cavity; an internal, from the lining membrane of the cochlea; and an intermediate, or fibrous layer. 14
The promontory (promontorium) is a rounded hollow prominence, formed by the projection outward of the first turn of the cochlea; it is placed between the fenestræ, and is furrowed on its surface by small grooves, for the lodgement of branches of the tympanic plexus. A minute spicule of bone frequently connects the promontory to the pyramidal eminence. 15
The prominence of the facial canal (prominentia canalis facialis; prominence of aqueduct of Fallopius) indicates the position of the bony canal in which the facial nerve is contained; this canal traverses the labyrinthic wall of the tympanic cavity above the fenestra vestibuli, and behind that opening curves nearly vertically downward along the mastoid wall. 16
The mastoid or posterior wall (paries mastoidea) is wider above than below, and presents for examination the entrance to the tympanic antrum, the pyramidal eminence, and the fossa incudis. 17
The entrance to the antrum is a large irregular aperture, which leads backward from the epitympanic recess into a considerable air space, named the tympanic or mastoid antrum (see page 142). The antrum communicates behind and below with the mastoid air cells, which vary considerably in number, size, and form; the antrum and mastoid air cells are lined by mucous membrane, continuous with that lining the tympanic cavity. On the medial wall of the entrance to the antrum is a rounded eminence, situated above and behind the prominence of the facial canal; it corresponds with the position of the ampullated ends of the superior and lateral semicircular canals. 18
The pyramidal eminence (eminentia pyramidalis; pyramid) is situated immediately behind the fenestra vestibuli, and in front of the vertical portion of the facial canal; it is hollow, and contains the Stapedius muscle; its summit projects forward toward the fenestra vestibuli, and is pierced by a small aperture which transmits the tendon of the muscle. The cavity in the pyramidal eminence is prolonged downward and backward in front of the facial canal, and communicates with it by a minute aperture which transmits a twig from the facial nerve to the Stapedius muscle. 19
The fossa incudis is a small depression in the lower and back part of the epitympanic recess; it lodges the short crus of the incus. 20
The Carotid or Anterior Wall (paries carotica) is wider above than below; it corresponds with the carotid canal, from which it is separated by a thin plate of bone perforated by the tympanic branch of the internal carotid artery, and by the deep petrosal nerve which connects the sympathetic plexus on the internal carotid artery with the tympanic plexus on the promontory. At the upper part of the anterior wall are the orifice of the semicanal for the Tensor tympani muscle and the tympanic orifice of the auditory tube, separated from each other by a thin horizontal plate of bone, the septum canalis musculotubarii. These canals run from the tympanic cavity forward and downward to the retiring angle between the squama and the petrous portion of the temporal bone. 21
The semicanal for the Tensor tympani (semicanalis m. tensoris tympani) is the superior and the smaller of the two; it is cylindrical and lies beneath the tegmen tympani. It extends on to the labyrinthic wall of the tympanic cavity and ends immediately above the fenestra vestibuli. 22
The septum canalis musculotubarii (processus cochleariformis) passes backward below this semicanal, forming its lateral wall and floor; it expands above the anterior end of the fenestra vestibuli and terminates there by curving laterally so as to form a pulley over which the tendon of the muscle passes. 23
The auditory tube (tuba auditiva; Eustachian tube) is the channel through which the tympanic cavity communicates with the nasal part of the pharynx. Its length is about 36 mm., and its direction is downward, forward, and medialward, forming an angle of about 45 degrees with the sagittal plane and one of from 30 to 40 degrees with the horizontal plane. It is formed partly of bone, partly of cartilage and fibrous tissue (Figs. 819, 915). 24
The osseous portion (pars osseo tubæ auditivæ) is about 12 mm. in length. It begins in the carotid wall of the tympanic cavity, below the septum canalis musculotubarii, and, gradually narrowing, ends at the angle of junction of the squama and the petrous portion of the temporal bone, its extremity presenting a jagged margin which serves for the attachment of the cartilaginous portion. 25
by the Salpingopharyngeus and Dilatator tubæ. The latter arises from the hook of the cartilage and from the membranous part of the tube, and blends below with the Tensor veli palatini. 26
Note 150. American Journal of Anatomy, 1908, viii. [back] | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/20883 | Surgery vs Radiation
Patient and Surgeon Experiences
Clinical Evidence
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2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/21074 | California health reform
Ned Spurgeon (Utah and visiting distinguished chair at McGeorge this semester) has done a really nice piece on California health reform. It's been posted by Elizabeth Ann Weeks (Kansas) on the Jurisdynamics blog page.
posted by tommayo, 3:11 PM
Living with an incurable genetic disease
The N.Y. Times ran a remarkable story last Sunday describing the life changes that occur when a person chooses to learn whether she has the genetic condition -- Huntington's Disease (or HD) -- that killed her grandfather and afflicts her cousin. Is it a good idea to find out, or is it an invitation for sorrow, stigmatization, and loss of insurability? The issues are explored sensitively and in detail in this article, which I didn't see last Sunday as I prepared for and gave a talk to The Institute for the Humanities at Salado on, of all things, medical privacy and the uses to which genetic information may be put. Thanks to college classmate Rick Goggans, M.D., for pointing this one out to me!Links to HD resources (provided by The Times):Huntington’s Disease Society of AmericaHereditary Disease FoundationHuntington’s Disease Advocacy Center
posted by tommayo, 10:10 AM
Fen-phen lawyers defrauded plaintiffs, court rules
Physicians, other health care professionals, hospitals, and other health-care entities take their lumps here with some regularity, so it is perhaps only fitting that I should note this story from yesterday's N.Y. Times:W. L. Carter knew there was something fishy going on when he went to his lawyers’ office a few years ago to pick up his settlement check for the heart damage he had sustained from taking the diet drug combination fen-phen. The check was, for starters, much smaller than he had expected. And his own lawyers threatened to retaliate against him if he ever told anyone, including his family, how much he had been paid. “You will be fined $100,000, you will go to jail and you will be sued,” Mr. Carter recalled them saying.Mr. Carter was right to have been suspicious. The lawyers defrauded their clients, a state judge has ruled in a civil case, when they settled fen-phen lawsuits on behalf of 440 of them for $200 million but kept the bulk of the money for themselves. Legal experts said the fraud might be one of the biggest and most brazen in legal history. This week, several clients testified before a federal grand jury that has begun to investigate potential criminal wrongdoing arising from the settlement.“It enrages me,” said Sonja Pickett, a retail manager, who testified Thursday before the grand jury. “They robbed us.”. . . The basic facts are not in dispute. When the clients sued the drug maker, they agreed to pay the lawyers 30 percent to 33 percent of any money that was recovered, plus expenses. In this case, that would have left the 440 clients to divide perhaps $135 million. But the clients received only $74 million. An additional $20 million went to a questionable “charitable fund.” The rest — $106 million — went to lawyers. Though amounts of the individual settlements remain sealed, court papers suggest they were from $100,000 to $5 million. On average, plaintiffs received less than 40 percent of what the settlement agreement specified, instead of the roughly 70 percent to which they were entitled. Had the lawyers merely taken what they were contractually entitled to, they would have become very rich men, said Tracy Curtis, a mortgage loan officer who is also suing her former lawyers. “They could have taken the high road,” Ms. Curtis said. “They would have made plenty of money.”There's more, and it's all ugly. Shameful. posted by tommayo, 9:56 AM
Federal bill prohibiting genetic discrimination analyzed by Congressional Budget Office
H.R. 493 (the "Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2007") would broadly prohibit genetic discrimination by employers (including states and their political subdivisions), unions, employment agencies, and insurers. It has 221 co-sponsors, which is more than enough (assuming they all vote for the bill in the form in which it hits the floor and after amendments, if any) to pass in the House. Here's the Congressional Research Service's summary of the bill:Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) and the Public Health Service Act to expand the prohibition against discrimination by group health plans and health insurance issuers in the group and individual markets on the basis of genetic information or services to prohibit: (1) enrollment and premium discrimination based on information about a request for or receipt of genetic services; and (2) requiring genetic testing. Sets forth penalties for violations.Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to prohibit issuers of Medicare supplemental policies from discriminating on the basis of genetic information.Extends medical privacy and confidentiality rules to the disclosure of genetic information.Makes it an unlawful employment practice for an employer, employment agency, labor organization, or training program to discriminate against an individual or deprive such individual of employment opportunities because of genetic information. Prohibits the collection and disclosure of genetic information, with certain exceptions.Establishes a Genetic Nondiscrimination Study Commission to review the developing science of genetics and advise Congress on the advisability of providing for a disparate impact cause of action under this Act.For a more detailed discussion of the bill, go to H. Rept. 11-28 (Part I), March 5, 2007. Also, a number of states already have similar laws on their books. The National Conference of State Legislatures has a handy list of such laws (last updated Nov. 2006 (employment) and June 2005 (insurance)).Yesterday, the CBO published its cost estimate for H.R. 493. Over 10 years, the federal treasury would be out about $2 million (because premiums for some of the new insureds would be tax-deductible) and the CBO estimates increased outlays of about $2 million (assuming appropriations are approved) for the Departments of Labor, Treasury, and HHS. There will be additional state and private-sector mandates in connection with the anti-discrimination law, but CBO figures the cost will be low for the states and below the threshold in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act for the private-sector actors.If there's a surprise in any of this, it might be in the estimated number of citizens expected to benefit from this law: 600. Is there any chance this is a typo? posted by tommayo, 7:46 AM
From CMS today (see new COP in Friday's Federal Register (I'll supply the link when it's available tomorrow)):NEW MEDICARE HOSPITAL CONDITIONS OFPARTICIPATION FOR TRANSPLANT CENTERSThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a final rule today setting forth the requirements that transplant centers must meet to participate in the Medicare program that moves Medicare covered transplant programs toward an outcome-focused system.This final rule will move Medicare-covered transplant programs toward an outcome-focused system that reflects the clinical experience, resources and commitment of the transplant program. The rule contains comprehensive conditions of participation for transplant programs serving Medicare beneficiaries.It will ensure effective oversight of transplant centers by advancing coordination between CMS, State survey agencies, the Health Resources and Services Administration, the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network and the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients.“This is a major milestone in our efforts to make sure that people needing transplants get the best possible care, while giving transplant centers and physicians comprehensive and reliable guidance,” said Leslie V. Norwalk, CMS acting administrator. “This rule both improves the current transplant outcome measure requirements and strengthens the protection of the health and safety of patients and living donors.”In recent decades, remarkable strides in transplantation technology and pharmacology have turned organ transplantation into a mainstream treatment for many patients in end stage organ failure. CMS issued coverage decisions related to heart transplants in 1987, liver transplants in 1991, lung transplants in 1995, and intestine transplants in 2001 and updated in 2006. Kidney transplant centers have been regulated in the Code of Federal Regulations since 1976. This rule will consolidate all transplant center requirements into one regulation.All transplant centers that continue to participate in Medicare, including kidney transplant centers, are required to submit a request for initial approval. Once approved by Medicare, transplant centers are eligible for re-approval every 3 years.Transplant centers with current Medicare approval, that have applied for initial approval within 180 days from the effective date of the final rule may continue to provide transplant services and receive payment from Medicare until CMS makes a decision on the transplant center’s request for approval.The final rule went on public display today at the Office of the Federal Register for publication on Friday, March 23, 2007.
IRS releases "Good Governance Practices" for charitable organizations
I meant to post this earlier, but the posts have been few and far between this month, and Davis & Tremaine beat me to the punch, so I have to give them credit for this one: The IRS has announced the release of a staff discussion draft of "Good Governance Practices for 501(c)(3) Organizations." Major sections of the draft include these topics: Mission Statement, Code of Ethics, Due Diligence, Duty of Loyalty, Transparency, Fundraising Policy, Financial Audits, Compensation Practices, Document Retention Policy. It's about three (3) pages long and its content shouldn't surprise anyone with a passing familiarity with the law of exempt orgs.The IRS seems to be saying that adoption of these good governance practices is not a criterion for obtaining or retaining exempt status, but that an organization that departs to a significant degree from them is more likely to engage in practices that put its exempt status in jeopardy. Interestingly, if somewhat bizarrely, the Service inserted a comment about board size into its introduction that doesn't appear -- either implicitly or explicitly -- in the Good Governance Practices themselves. It's the trite-but-true "Goldilocks" principle that boards that are too small have difficulty representing "a public interest" and boards that are too large "may be less attentive to oversight duties." Presumably boards that are "just right" are more likely to see that their duties are carried out in a manner that promotes, in the case of exempt hospitals, community benefits.
GAO testimony on DOD/VA care problems for injured soldiers, vets
GAO released the text of its testimony today before the Subcommittee on National Security and Foreign Affairs of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. The witness list and links to testimony and related documents are here. What is fairly clearly emerging is a sense that the problems with outpatient care at Walter Reed Army Hospital -- described in a series of articles in The Washington Post last week -- are the tip of the iceberg. That's the gist of an article by Anne Hull and Dana Priest in today's Post.It may be true, as Paul Krugman writes in today's op-ed (paid TimesSelect subscription required) in the N.Y. Times, that the worst of the worst in terms of quality care (or the lack thereof) is in the military hospitals, which are separate and distinct from the VA. And the VA may still be the exemplar of quality that it's been touted to be for the past 10 years (although that's not what I hear from the medical students who rotate through the VA hospital here, and that's not the message from vets in today's Post article by Hull and Priest). But the testimony of the GAO witness documents some of the ways that the care in the VA system breaks down when a patient is handed off from the military's hospital system to the VA's.
posted by tommayo, 12:35 PM
To be middle-class and uninsured
Robert Pear has an interesting front-page article today in the N.Y. Times ("Without Health Benefits, a Good Life Turns Fragile") on the growing phenomenon of employees and independent contractors whose arrangements don't include health insurance. The main focus is about a 50-year-old real-estate agent with Century 21, Vicki Readling, who makes about $60,000 but can't afford a health-insurance policy that is priced -- on account of her pre-existing diagnosis of cancer -- at $27,000:[T]he uninsured are not necessarily the poor, the unemployed and the undocumented. Solidly middle-class people like Ms. Readling are one of the fastest growing subgroups. And that is one reason, according to a recent New York Times/CBS News poll, that the problems of the uninsured have jumped to the top of the domestic political agenda in Washington and on the campaign trail. Today, more than one-third of the uninsured — 17 million of the nearly 47 million — have family incomes of $40,000 or more, according to the Employee Benefit Research Institute, a nonpartisan organization. More than two-thirds of the uninsured are in households with at least one full-time worker. The article offers a good illustration of the problems encountered by the uninsured.To save money, Ms. Readling said, she defers visits to the doctor and stretches out her cancer medication, which costs her about $300 a month. She takes the tiny pills three or four times a week, rather than seven days a week as prescribed.“I really try to stay away from the doctor because I am so scared of what everything will cost,” said Ms. Readling, who is divorced and has twin 18-year-old sons. Before every doctor’s visit and test, she asks, “How much are you going to charge me?” She says she tries to arrange “the best deals I can.” But in many cases, the price is still unaffordable, and “I have to do without.”Undertreatment and general mismanagement of chronic conditions will, in the long run, result in more expense, not less, but if short-term cash flow makes the cost of care prohibitively expensive, where's the safety net for patients like Ms. Readling? It doesn't exist.
Health care law (including public health law, medical ethics, and life sciences), with digressions into constitutional law, poetry, and other things that matter
Kaiser: health policy
AHLA
CDC Pub. Health News Healthcare Organizational Ethics
AP health stories
Name: tommayo Location: Dallas, Texas [1] Director, Cary M. Maguire Center for Ethics and Public Responsibility (SMU); [2] Associate Professor, SMU/Dedman School of Law; [3] Adjunct Associate Professor, Internal Medicine, UT-Southwestern Medical School; [4] Of Counsel, Haynes and Boone, LLP | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/21088 | Celebrating 20 years of enhancing the lives of women affected by breast cancer
20 Lives, 20 Ways
20th Anniversary Luncheon
WAR attends national breast cancer advocacy conference
Patient Navigator appointed to prestigious research committee
GOPiNK hosts successful fundraiser
Chappaqua's "A Cure in Our Lifetime" supports Patient Navigation
Women At Risk's breast cancer research, support, and education programs depend on the generosity of donors like you.
To make a donation in honor of Women At Risk's 20th Anniversary year, please contact Eric Dubinsky at edubinksy@ womenatrisknyc.org or (212) 305-4486.
First, we'd like to thank everyone who came out to support WAR at our 20th Anniversary Luncheon on May 9th. It was a great success, and we couldn't have done it without the generosity of all of our supporters.
In the past few months, Women At Risk has also been busy advancing breast cancer advocacy, furthering research initiatives, and much more!
Read on for the latest news...
WAR Luncheon celebrates 20 years of research, education, and support
On May 9, 2011, hundreds of Women At Risk supporters gathered at the Waldorf=Astoria to celebrate WAR's incredible work over the past 20 years.
The Luncheon honored Jeffrey Kalinsky, President & CEO of Jeffrey New York & Atlanta and the EVP of Designer Merchandising at Nordstrom, for his tremendous commitment to the fight against breast cancer.
Dr. Katherine Crew, WAR's Co-Medical Director, spoke about the importance of research, followed by the two guest speakers: Lynn Sherr, author and former ABC News Correspondent and The Honorable Carolyn B. Maloney of the 14th Congressional District. Their remarks were both thought-provoking and inspirational, speaking to the importance of living our lives to the fullest and keeping the spotlight on issues impacting women.
We look forward to expanding Women At Risk's programs to fight breast cancer and support those affected by the disease in the coming decades.
To celebrate our 20th Anniversary, WAR is profiling 20 individuals whose lives have been touched in some way by the many programs we have offered over the past two decades. If you, or someone you know, has been impacted by Women At Risk's work and would like to be potentially featured in this series, please send your story to Lisa Held at lisaelaineh@gmail.com. We'd love to hear from you!
4. Dr. Francisco Espinel, the 2009-2010 "Alan & Susan Fuirst Women At Risk Breast Surgery Fellow."
5. Yuka Hasegawa, an artist and fashion designer from Kyoto, Japan who was helped by WAR after her breast cancer diagnosis in 2009.
Women At Risk attends the National Breast Cancer Coalition's Annual Training & Advocacy Conference
This year, a group of nine Women At Risk staff members, patients, and volunteers attended the NBCC Advocacy Conference on April 30th-May 3rd, 2011 in Washington, D.C..
The four-day conference was packed with interesting speakers, panel discussions, plenary sessions, workshops, and information. The focus this year was on the Breast Cancer Deadline 2020 and how we can “change the conversation” to end breast cancer.
Read about the details of the conference and the advocates' day of lobbying on Capitol Hill.
You can also apply for a scholarship to attend the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium this December as a patient advocate.
WAR's Patient Navigator chosen for prestigious breast cancer research committee
Women At Risk is proud to announce that Nancy Singleton, our Patient Navigator, has been named the "Breast Cancer Committee Patient Advocate" at SWOG, one of the largest cancer clinical trials cooperative groups in the United States.
Funded by research grants from the National Cancer Institute, the Group conducts clinical trials to prevent and treat cancer in adults, and to improve the quality of life for cancer survivors. The Group’s network includes more than 4,000 physicians who practice at more than 500 institutions, including 19 NCI-designated cancer centers.
Roughly 5,000 patients and healthy participants are enrolled each year in SWOG studies, and approximately 30,000 are involved annually in ongoing clinical trials. During the last 25 years more than 170,000 patients have directly benefited from the Group’s trials, while millions more have received improved care through new standards of treatment or prevention developed by the Group.
As the Patient Advocate on the Breast Cancer Committee, Nancy will be responsible for representing the perspective of those affected by cancer at the group's biannual meetings and will also review research protocols.
Congratulations, Nancy!
GOPiNK hosts Pink and White Party On Saturday, May 14th, GOPiNK, Women At Risk's Junior Committee, hosted a "Pink and White Party"at Bloomingdale's in White Plains, where high school girls and boys modeled the latest pink and white trends in front of an audience of more than 300 people.
Allie Farber and Erica Baevsky, the founders of GOPiNK, organized the event with the help of a committee of 60 teenagers from schools throughout Westchester. The event raised $40,000 to support Women At Risk's breast cancer initiatives.
WAR would like to thank the GOPiNK girls for their incredible hard work, and congratulate them on another successful event!
Chappaqua's "A Cure in Our Lifetime" raises funds to support WAR's Patient Navigation program
On Friday, May 13th, Chappaqua's "A Cure in Our Lifetime" held their 14th Annual Spring Breakfast Benefit at the Trump National Golf Club in Westchester. One of the most influential individuals in breast cancer research and treatment today, Dr. Larry Norton, was the guest speaker.
The event raised funds for several prestigious cancer centers and breast cancer programs, one of which was WAR's Patient Navigation program.
WAR would like to thank Chappaqua's "A Cure in Our Lifetime" for their continued support of this critical program, which provides resources, navigation, and support to newly-diagnosed breast cancer patients at Columbia University Medical Center/NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital.
Women At Risk is the breast cancer program of NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center whose mission is to enhance the lives of women at high risk for and with breast cancer through research, education and support. For more information, visit us at www.womenatrisknyc.org or www.womenatriskblog.com. | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/21267 | News from Ministry Saint Joseph's Hospital in Marshfield, WI
Ministry names new vice president
Vanessa L. Freitag, PharmD, RPh, has been named vice president, clinical services for the Ministry Health Care Western Region which includes Ministry Saint Joseph’s Hospital (MSJH) in Marshfield and Ministry Our Lady of Victory Hospital (MOLV) in Stanley. In this new position she will be jointly accountable for the overall senior leadership at MOLVH and for a number of clinical services within Ministry Saint Joseph’s Hospital in Marshfield. She will start her new position on June 1.
Freitag is currently the director of pharmacy for Ministry Saint Joseph’s Hospital, a position she has held since 2007. In addition to her pharmacy responsibilities, she has been active in a leadership role with Ministry Health Care, and currently serves on a number of committees, including the Ministry Health Care Quality Council and the Ministry Saint Joseph’s Hospital Coordinating Council. On the state level, she is a member of the Pharmacy Society of Wisconsin Hospital Advisory Board.
Brian Kief, Western Region CEO, says, “Since joining Ministry and Saint Joseph’s seven years ago, Vanessa has exhibited broad based leadership skills in a variety of capacities. She is an engaging leader, who reaches out to all stakeholders to create success. She maintains high standards and expectations while also having a caring approach that ensures team understanding and participation.”
Vanessa adds, “I believe in the values and am committed to Ministry Health Care and the Catholic Health Care model of service. I see this new opportunity as a way to continue to grow and contribute to the Mission of our organization, supporting access to strong rural health care. I have gotten to know leaders at Ministry Our Lady of Victory through my work in the pharmacy integration between the two organizations and am very excited about this leadership opportunity and working with this team.”
Freitag earned her doctor of pharmacy and bachelor of science in pharmacy from the University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy in Minneapolis.
She will replace current hospital president, Cynthia Eichman, who is retiring at the end of June. Eichman joined MOLVH in 1995 as a part of the hospital’s affiliation with Ministry Health Care. Ministry Saint Joseph's Hospital
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Gifts from Ministry Saint Joseph's Hospital | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/21290 | NAMI Albuquerque
Watch in its entirety at : http://www.mindsontheedge.org/watch/
Moderator Frank Sesno
Do you have a family member suffering from bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or other serious mental illness?
"The one-hour television program zeros in on wrenching and confounding situations that are playing out every day in homes and hospital ERs, on city streets and school campuses, in courtrooms and in jails, as Americans struggle with the challenges of severe mental illness.
Produced for PBS by the Fred Friendly Seminars using their signature format of a hypothetical scenario, the program considers the case of a college student who develops mental illness while at school. Her professor knows something is wrong, but is unsure how to approach her and whether it is even legal to contact her parents. Upset and confused when they see their daughter, her parents do not know where to turn and are shocked to discover how limited their options are when they try to seek medical help.
The program also explores the circumstances of an adult who has coped with his mental illness until his mother dies, and then he is left without critical support. As his mental health unravels, and he is unable to get treatment or maintain his home, he is arrested for a minor crime and absorbed into the criminal justice system. For him it is the beginning of a merry-go-round of homelessness and jail that has become all too common for many individuals who are living with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and other severe mental illnesses.
Moderator Frank Sesno, unfolds this story and asks the program panelists to put themselves in the shoes of these hypothetical characters and talk about what they would do if faced with this situation. The distinguished panel includes U.S. Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer, Nobel Prize winning neurologist Eric Kandel, along with attorneys, doctors, legislators and other experts in the field. Several of the panelists have personal, as well as professional experience, in living with mental illness." | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/22191 | Entries : Tuberculosis
Municipal Tuberculosis Sanitarium, 1941
Tuberculosis is an infectious disease of the lungs and other organs. Once considered incurable, the disease caused its victims
to slowly waste away, which was why it was called “consumption.” With a mortality rate of approximately 18 per 10,000 people,
tuberculosis was a leading cause of death within the city of Chicago at the turn of the twentieth century.
Early attempts at controlling tuberculosis in Chicago focused on home sanitation, public health education, and isolation of the patient. Private hospitals took a few tuberculosis patients, but public facilities to care for consumptives were not available. In order to raise public
awareness, the Visiting Nurses Association and physician Theodore Sachs spearheaded an antituberculosis movement in the early
1900s. This eventually resulted in the passage of state legislation, the Glackin Tuberculosis Law, in 1909, giving the city
of Chicago the ability to raise funds for the treatment and control of tuberculosis through a special property tax. In 1915,
the Chicago Municipal Tuberculosis Sanitarium opened and remained in operation until the 1970s.
Mortality rates from tuberculosis declined slowly in Chicago in the early twentieth century with disparities in mortality
rates due especially to race. As a result of overcrowding and poverty, African American and immigrant communities were hardest hit. While mortality rates for whites were decreasing, racially restrictive hospital
admittance and public health policies led to an increase in mortality for the black community. Finally, midcentury drug therapies
effectively controlled tuberculosis. Tuberculosis remained under control in Chicago until the 1980s, when the spread of AIDS created a community of individuals susceptible to the disease.
Susan Vieweg
Bonner, Thomas Neville. Medicine in Chicago 1850–1950. 1957.
McBride, David. From T.B. to AIDS: Epidemics among Urban Blacks. 1991.
Rothman, Sheila. Living in the Shadow of Death. 1995. | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/23285 | Health System > Continuing Medical Education > UC Davis nursing school hopes to improve care ...
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NEWS | March 14, 2014
UC Davis nursing school hopes to improve care for cancer patients with social network
Several chemotherapy patients at the UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center will be invited to use tablets with a unique social networking tool as part of their treatment plan. Researchers at the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at UC Davis hope to prove that mobile health technology improves the care experience for patients as well as the quality of care while also reducing cost. Researchers at the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at UC Davis hope to prove that mobile health technology improves the care experience for patients as well as the quality of care while also reducing cost. The project is part of a two-year, $199,854 grant from the McKesson Foundation and its national Mobilizing for Health Initiative. Research on mobile health technology in cancer care is new, said Jill Joseph, the associate dean for research at the nursing school. Other cancer-related mobile applications are available, but are limited to education and awareness and don’t provide disease management tools or real-time communication.“We have ample evidence that cancer patients often receive fragmented care, experience significant distress, and may needlessly require care in emergency departments or inpatient settings, particularly during chemotherapy,” Joseph said. “Little research and development has focused on providing novel technologies to support cancer care coordination.”Participating patients will use a tablet device, such as a Google Nexus or iPad, to connect to their unique and private Personal Health Network that includes a nurse coordinator — who manages the their care — along with family, caregivers, clinicians and other desired partners. These people can connect with one another through real-time messaging, video and audio components as well as schedule appointments, assign tasks, store and track information and more.A nurse coordinator is assigned to support each chemotherapy patient who uses the mobile application. This coordinator monitors the patient’s care plan, triages issues and communicates with caregivers. Unlike electronic health records and other information systems common in hospitals, the social networking platform allows patients, their families and caregivers to not only access information but communicate with another and make decisions about care and health management.“This is a new tool designed with the patient and family at the center of care,” said Katherine Kim, a recent doctoral graduate of the UC Davis nursing school who is now a visiting faculty member and project director.For example, a chemotherapy patient might message her nurse coordinator that she’s not doing well that day, and feels nauseous and anxious. The nurse can then communicate with the patient to further assess the situation, communicate with other caregivers, and work with the patient to address the issues or take other steps such as reschedule appointments or review current medications.Developed by private technology partner Tiatros, the social networking platform is different from other social media sites, like Facebook and LinkedIn, because it is designed to compy with health privacy laws and operates securely. Researchers will test that design as part of the study.“I’m excited about bringing nursing research into the Cancer Center. I’m especially excited for our patients to have an opportunity to be part of this project,” said Kerri Stuart, a nurse manager at the Cancer Center. “Learning you have cancer is overwhelming and the thought of chemotherapy is often terrifying. This is a tool that empowers patients and provides access to information when they need it, not just when the clinic is open.”Research team members will interview patients after they have used the program for six months to determine how their health, the delivery of care and their need for emergency or inpatient care was affected. The team includes nursing faculty from the School of Nursing as well as oncology nurses, social workers, and physicians from the UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center.The study is the first funded project resulting from the development of the UC Davis Collaborative Cancer Care Research Group, a multidisciplinary team of experts who hope to develop technology-enabled solutions that improve the quality, accessibility and affordability of cancer care.Visit the school’s website at http://nursing.ucdavis.edu for more information.Founded in 1943, the McKesson Foundation is dedicated to improving the health of patients through improved health-care quality, personal health management and lower costs. The foundation’s current focus area is cancer, with a specific emphasis on organizations that provide direct services to low-income cancer patients in the U.S. The Mobilizing for Health Initiative, or mHealth Initiative, was designed to build the evidence base for what works and what doesn’t work in the rapidly expanding field of mHealth.About the UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center is the only National Cancer Institute comprehensive-designated center serving the Central Valley and inland Northern California, a region of more than 6 million people. Its top specialists provide compassionate, comprehensive care for more than 9,000 adults and children every year, and offer patients access to more than 150 clinical trials at any given time. Its innovative research program includes more than 280 scientists at UC Davis and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. The unique partnership, the first between a major cancer center and national laboratory, has resulted in the discovery of new tools to diagnose and treat cancer. Through the Cancer Care Network, UC Davis is collaborating with a number of hospitals and clinical centers throughout the Central Valley and Northern California regions to offer the latest cancer-care services. For more information, visit http://cancer.ucdavis.edu.About the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at UC Davis The Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at UC Davis was established in March 2009 through a $100 million commitment from the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, the nation's largest grant for nursing education. The vision of the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing is to transform health care through nursing education and research. The school’s first programs, doctoral and master’s degrees, opened in fall 2010. Master’s degree programs for nurse practitioners and physician assistants, with a focus on preparing primary-care providers for rural and underserved communities, opened in summer 2013. The Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing is part of UC Davis Health System, an integrated, academic health system encompassing the UC Davis School of Medicine, UC Davis Medical Center and the UC Davis Medical Group. For more information, visit http://nursing.ucdavis.edu.
Continuing Medical Education | 4610 X Street, Suite 2301, Center for Health and Technology Building | Sacramento, CA 95817 | Main Phone: (916) 734-5390 | Toll Free: (866) CME-4EDU FAX (916) 734-0776 | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/23617 | How Rosetta@home helps cure cancer, AIDS, Alzheimer's, and more
This page attempts to explain the basic science behind Rosetta@home, and in doing so, explain how Rosetta@home can help lead to cures for human diseases.
What are proteins?
What do proteins do?
How are proteins related to disease?
What role does protein structure play in treating disease?
What does Rosetta@home do on my computer?
Proteins are the workhorses in every cell of every living thing.
Your body is made up of trillions of cells, of all different kinds:
muscle cells, brain cells, blood cells, and more.
Inside those cells, proteins are allowing your body to do what it does:
break down food to power your muscles, send signals through your brain that control the body, and transport nutrients though your blood.
Proteins come in thousands of different varieties, but they all have a lot in common.
For instance, they're made of the same stuff: every protein consists of a long chain of joined-together amino acids.
Amino acids are small molecules made up of atoms of carbon, oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur, and hydrogen.
To make a protein, the amino acids are joined in an unbranched chain, like a line of people holding hands.
Just as the line of people has their legs and feet "hanging" off the chain, each amino acid has a small group of atoms (called a sidechain) sticking off the chain that connects them to each other (the mainchain or backbone).
Every amino acid contributes the same "arms" to the mainchain, but unlike a line of people, the sidechains ("legs") of amino acids are quite different from each other.
In fact, there are 20 different kinds of amino acids, which differ from one another based on what atoms are in their sidechains.
The 20 amino acids have names like alanine, tryptophan, glutamine, and leucine.
Another thing proteins all have in common is that they don't like to stay stretched out in a straight line.
The protein folds up to make a compact blob, but as it does, it keeps some amino acids near the center of the blob, and others outside;
and it keeps some pairs of amino acids close together and others far apart.
Every kind of protein folds up into a very specific shape -- the same shape every time.
Most proteins do this all by themselves, although some need extra help to fold into the right shape.
It turns out that the identity of a protein is simply determined by which amino acids are in it, and what order they're in.
Amazingly, a particular chain of amino acids always folds in exactly the same way -- whatever way results in the lowest overall energy.
That means that to make two identical proteins with exactly the same shape and properties, all the body has to do is make two chains with the same amino acids in the same order.
That's important, because there are thousands of identical copies of some proteins in every cell in your body!
Cells are always making new copies of proteins and breaking down old ones to be recycled.
The blueprints for making proteins are genes, which are encoded in your DNA.
There are small differences in DNA that make one person different from another.
This means that one person's proteins may be slightly different than another's.
It also means that half of your proteins come from the genes you inherited from your mother (and are like her proteins), and the rest come from your father (and are like his).
Sometimes this is called the Central Dogma of molecular biology:
every gene in your DNA gets translated into a protein in your body.
Proteins are involved in almost all of the processes going on inside your body:
they break down food to power your muscles, send signals through your brain that control the body, and transport nutrients though your blood.
Many proteins act as enzymes, meaning they catalyze (speed up) chemical reactions that wouldn't take place otherwise.
But other proteins power muscle contractions, or act as chemical messages inside the body, or hundreds of other things.
Here's a small sample of what proteins do:
starts the process of breaking down starch from food into forms the body can use.
Alcohol dehydrogenase
transforms alcohol from beer/wine/liquor into a non-toxic form that the body uses for food.
carries oxygen in our blood.
forms a scab to protect cuts as they heal.
gives structure and support to our skin, tendons, and even bones.
Actin
is one of the major proteins in our muscles.
helps regulate the growth of children into adults.
Potassium channels
help send signals through the brain and other nerve cells.
regulates the amount of sugar in the blood and is used to treat diabetes.
Proteins are present in all living things, even plants, bacteria, and viruses.
Some organisms have proteins that give them their special characteristics:
is a collection of proteins in plants that captures sunlight for photosynthesis.
Luciferase
catalyzes the chemical reaction that makes fireflies glow.
Hemagglutinin
helps the influenza virus invade our cells.
With all the things proteins do to keep our bodies functioning and healthy, they can be involved in disease in many different ways.
Below, we list three diseases that represent different ways that proteins can be involved in disease.
HIV / AIDS:
The HIV virus is made up largely of proteins, and once inside a cell it creates other proteins to help itself reproduce.
HIV-1 protease
and reverse transcriptase
are two proteins made by the HIV virus that help it infect the body and replicate itself.
HIV-1 protease cuts the "polyprotein" made by the replicating virus into the functional pieces it needs.
Reverse transcriptase converts HIV's genes from RNA into a form its host understands, DNA.
Both proteins are critical for the virus to replicate inside the body, and both are targetted by anti-HIV drugs.
This is an example of a disease producing proteins that do not occur naturally in the body to help it attack our cells.
Cancer is very different from HIV in that it's usually our own proteins to blame, instead of proteins from an outside invader.
Cancer arises from the uncontrolled growth of cells in some part of our bodies, such as the lung, breast, or skin.
Ordinarily, there are systems of proteins that limit cell growth, but they may be damaged by things like UV rays from the sun or chemicals from cigarette smoke.
But other proteins, like p53 tumor suppressor,
normally recognize the damage and stop the cell from becoming cancerous -- unless they too are damaged.
In fact, damage to the gene for p53 occurs in about half of human cancers (together with damage to various other genes).
Alzheimer's:
In some ways, Alzheimer's is the disease most directly caused by proteins.
A protein called amyloid-beta precursor protein
is a normal part of healthy, functioning nerve cells in the brain.
But to do its job, it gets cut into two pieces, leaving behind a little scrap from the middle -- amyloid-beta peptide.
Many copies of this peptide (short protein segment) can come together to form clumps of protein in the brain.
Although many things about Alzheimer's are still not understood, it is thought that these clumps of protein are a major part of the disease.
Proteins are very small, too small to see, even with a microscope.
However, using special x-rays or very powerful magnets, scientists have been able to figure out the structures of some proteins -- what they would look like if we could see them.
A complete structure defines the three-dimensional position of every atom in the protein.
In order for a protein to function normally, it must usually bind to and interact with at least one chemical compound or other protein.
The site of interaction is called the protein's binding site (or active site, for enzymes that carry out chemical reactions).
The interaction depends on a nearly perfect fit between the shape of the binding site and the thing it binds to, like a key fitting into a lock.
Solving the structure of a protein allows us to see the exact shape and position of its binding site(s).
Most drugs do their work by targetting the binding or active site of a particular protein.
For example, the anti-cancer drug tamoxifen fits into the binding site of
estrogen receptor.
Without the drug, estrogen will bind to estrogen receptor, which can contribute to the uncontrolled growth of cancer cells.
With the drug in place, estrogen can't get in, and so the cancer's growth is slowed down.
Tradionally, drugs have been discovered by what amounts to trial and error.
But if a specific protein is known to be involved in a disease, and if the structure of that protein is known, then chemists can try to design a drug to bind to the protein.
If it works, the new drug will bind to the target protein and keep it from doing whatever it does.
For example, two proteins from the HIV virus, HIV-1 protease
and reverse transcriptase,
have been targetted this way.
Unfortunately, this is still a time-consuming process and success is not guaranteed.
However, many people believe that knowing protein structures will play an increasingly important role in the future of drug discovery.
Of course, drug design isn't the only role for protein structure in treating disease:
the structure of a protein helps explain what it does and how it does it.
That can give insight into how particular processes work in the body, and how they go wrong in disease.
This kind of basic understanding can contribute to the treatment of a disease apart from any specific drug.
The computer program Rosetta works on several kinds of calculations, but they all relate to protein structure.
A large number of computers are needed because the calculations take a long time,
and many different possibilities must be explored in order to discover the right answers.
For more information, Dr. David Baker's Rosetta@home Journal
is a great source of timely information about what new projects are being run on Rosetta@home, and how they relate to important biomedical problems.
You can also see the Active WorkUnits Log,
which has up-to-date information about what Rosetta@home is working on right now, but descriptions may be terse and/or technical.
Design of therapeutic proteins:
Since proteins are part of so many diseases, they can also be part of the cure.
The Baker lab is using Rosetta@home to design brand new proteins that could help prevent or treat important diseases.
For example, Rosetta is being used to redesign parts of the HIV virus' coat so they can be administered as an effective vaccine.
We are also working on antagonists for androgen receptor (a protein involved in prostate cancer)
and on novel endonucleases (protein enzymes that cut DNA) for gene therapy approaches to treating a variety of hereditary diseases.
See Disease Related Research for more details.
Protein structure prediction:
As described above, knowing the structure of a protein is key to understanding how it works and to targetting it with drugs.
Rosetta attempts to predict the structure of a protein computationally, as opposed to determining it experimentally.
This problem, often called "the protein folding problem", is regarded as one of the hardest problems in biology today.
A computational solution is desirable because experimental methods generally take months to years of time and cost hundreds of thousands of dollars per protein.
(And human beings have tens of thousands of different proteins -- not to mention all the proteins in other organisms.)
Some of the structure predictions on Rosetta@home are for proteins whose structure is truly not known.
The resulting models are used to address some specific biological question, such as a disease mechanism.
Other predictions are tests where we already know the answer, aimed to improve Rosetta itself.
A specific case of this is the CASP competition, where teams of researchers around the globe try to predict the structures of proteins where the answer was recently determined experimentally but is not yet public knowledge.
Rosetta is consistently among the best performers in CASP.
Protein-protein docking:
Docking problems focus on predicting how two things bind to each other -- in this case, how two proteins bind to each other.
Knowing which parts of the proteins interact and their relative orientations in space helps explain the functions of those proteins.
It also suggests ways to create drugs that would disrupt the interaction, if the interaction is part of a disease.
(For instance, HIV proteins that bind to cell surface proteins so that the virus can infect the cell.)
In some cases, the structures of the two proteins by themselves are already known, but in other cases we must first predict them (see above).
To improve Rosetta's performance on protein-protein docking, the Baker lab also competes in CAPRI.
As in the CASP competition, in CAPRI researchers try to predict protein-protein interactions that have recently been determined but are not yet public knowledge.
Drug docking and design (coming soon):
Rosetta can also be used to dock drug-like molecules with proteins to see how they might bind to each other.
By trying many potential drugs from a large library of molecules, we may be able to discover a drug that binds to a protein of interest.
On the other hand, if a drug is already known to target that protein, then by predicting how it binds to the protein we can predict ways of improving the drug.
(These calculations are not currently running on Rosetta at home, but we expect that they will be soon.)
Please direct questions and comments about this page to iwd@u.washington.edu. | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/23942 | Vegetables in Childhood May Benefit Breast Health
FRIDAY, April 11, 2014 (HealthDay News) -- Girls who ate the most fruits and vegetables rich in carotenoids were less likely to get benign breast disease, a new study suggests.
Carotenoids are a group of pigments that typically produce an orange, red or dark green color. They are believed to have antioxidant properties that may guard against disease.
Benign breast disease describes a variety of noncancerous conditions of the breast; some forms raise the risk of breast cancer.
"There have been a number of studies about carotenoids and breast cancer," said lead researcher Caroline Boeke, a postdoctoral fellow at Channing Division of Network Medicine at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard School of Public Health, in Boston.
While the studies have produced mixed results, she said, overall they suggest a protective effect of the carotenoids. So her team decided to analyze the intake of these vegetables by girls enrolled in an ongoing study that began in 1996.
For her study, Boeke and her colleagues looked at food reports from 1996 through 1998 and then evaluated reports in 2005, 2007 and 2010 from girls who got a diagnosis of benign breast disease from a doctor after having a biopsy.
In all, Boeke studied nearly 6,600 girls, and 122 reported a diagnosis of benign breast disease.
When she looked at carotenoid intake, she found high intakes were protective. "The odds of benign breast disease in those who consumed the most beta carotene were about half that of those who consumed the least," she said.
Girls in the highest intake group ate two to three servings of carotenoid-rich foods weekly, she said.
The study is published in the May issue of Pediatrics.
"It's an observational study, so we can't say for sure the carotenoids cause the lower risk," Boeke noted. "We can only say there's an association."
She did take into account other factors that might affect the risk of benign breast disease, such as alcohol intake, physical activity, family history and body mass index (a measure of body fat using height and weight).
Why might the fruits and vegetables help? It's not known for sure, but Boeke said it may be due partly to their antioxidant properties. Carotenoids absorb harmful substances known as free radicals which can harm cells.
The s | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/24150 | | | MENTAL HEALTH SCREENING
NAMI calls on Congress to reject campaigns of misinformation on mental health screening and to oppose anti-screening legislation, both of which promise to drive up stigma and prey on fear. Many NAMI families know first-hand the unfortunate and sometimes-tragic consequences of failing to have a child diagnosed early and watching the child lose critical developmental years to an untreated mental illness. There are also families who are grateful that their child was diagnosed early and has benefited from appropriate treatment and intervention.
President Bush’s New Freedom Commission on Mental Health report (2003) calls for early mental health screening, assessment and referral to services as common practice in our nation. Approximately 10% of children and adolescents in our nation live with a mental illness that causes serious impairment, yet only 20% of youth with mental illnesses receive treatment and services. America cannot afford to continue to fail our youth with mental illnesses that require treatment. Fact vs. Fiction About Mental Health Screening
Screening is voluntary and requires parental consent. The TeenScreen program featured in the New Freedom Commission report requires parental consent before a youth may be screened and is a voluntary program. This program also requires the youth’s assent for the mental health screening.
Anti-psychiatry groups claim that the New Freedom Commission report calls for “mandatory screening, without parental consent.” That is simply not true.
Screening does not diagnose youth; it only identifies those that require a more complete mental health evaluation. Screening does not result in a child being medicated. Medications may only be prescribed by a medical doctor. Ultimately, parents must decide about the appropriate treatment approach for their child and no one is suggesting otherwise.
Mental health screening opponents claim that it will lead to the “labeling” and “drugging” of children. The truth is that screening is limited to identifying youth that require a further evaluation. A child can only be diagnosed by a trained mental health or medical professional who also should discuss treatment options with the family. Suicide represents a public health crisis and tragically claims about 3,000 young lives every year in our nation. About 90% of those who commit suicide have a mental illness (U.S. Surgeon General, 1999). Screening promises to help reduce youth suicide.
Opponents of screening claim that it does not help reduce suicide. In fact, studies of the Columbia University TeenScreen program show that screening is an accurate predictor of mental health concerns and identifies youth who may later become suicidal. Clearly, by making the mental health of children a national priority, we will reduce youth suicide.
Mental disorders in children and adolescents lead to other tragic consequences, especially when they go undiagnosed and untreated:
-Youth with mental illnesses have the highest school dropout and failure rates and lowest academic achievement of any disability group;
-65% of boys and 75% of girls in juvenile detention have one or more psychiatric disorders.
Opponents of screening simply fail to address the research that shows the gross under-identification of youth with mental disorders and the often tragic consequences that follow. Representative Ron Paul of Texas has introduced legislation, the Parental Consent Act of 2005 (HR 181) that would prohibit the use of federal funds for mental health screening. NAMI strongly opposes H.R. 181 and urges Congressional members to oppose the bill and any similar measures. The bill would stifle efforts to support state and local programs designed to identify youth struggling with mental illnesses and initiatives designed to help reduce the existing youth suicide crisis in this country. The Congressional Research Service (CRS) issued a memorandum on mental health screening on December 15, 2004 that also serves to set the record straight on mental health screening. The memo also references the House and Senate appropriations report language that specifically addresses mental health screening. The House report noted that “SAMHSA is overseeing a very promising pilot study utilizing evidence-based screening techniques and tools to screen and identify teenagers who are at risk.” The Senate report also recognized the pilot study involving the TeenScreen program.
Screening cannot be viewed in isolation. NAMI calls on federal, state and local leaders to build a comprehensive mental health system of care for the millions of children who require mental health treatment and services. Children with mental illnesses and their families deserve nothing less.
For more information please contact: Darcy Gruttadaro, Director of the Child and Adolescent Action Center at 703-516-7965or darcy@nami.org | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/24458 | Scientists tweak immune cells to fight cancer
Researchers at the University of Georgia are developing a new treatment technique that uses nanoparticles to reprogram immune cells so they are able to recognize and attack cancer. The findings were published recently in the early online edition of ACS Nano.
The human body operates under a constant state of martial law. Chief among the enforcers charged with maintaining order is the immune system, a complex network that seeks out and destroys the hordes of invading bacteria and viruses that threaten the organic society as it goes about its work.
The immune system is good at its job, but it's not perfect. Most cancerous cells, for example, are able to avoid detection by the immune system because they so closely resemble normal cells, leaving the cancerous cells free to multiply and grow into life-threatening tumors while the body's only protectors remain unaware.
Shanta Dhar and her colleagues are giving the immune system a boost through their research.
"What we are working on is specifically geared toward breast cancer," said Dhar, the study's co-author and an assistant professor of chemistry in the UGA Franklin College of Arts and Sciences. "Our paper reports for the first time that we can stimulate the immune system against breast cancer cells using mitochondria-targeted nanoparticles and light using a novel pathway."
In their experiments, Dhar and her colleagues exposed cancer cells in a petri dish to specially designed nanoparticles 1,000 times finer than the width of a human hair. The nanoparticles invade the cell and penetrate the mitochondria-the organelles responsible for producing the energy a cell needs to grow and replicate.
They then activated the nanoparticles inside the cancer cells by exposing them to a tissue-penetrating long wavelength laser light. Once activated, the nanoparticles disrupt the cancer cell's normal processes, eventually leading to its death.
The dead cancer cells were collected and exposed to dendritic cells, one of the core components of the human immune system. What the researchers saw was remarkable.
"We are able to potentially overcome some of the traditional drawbacks to today's dendritic cell immunotherapy," said Sean Marrache, a graduate student in Dhar's lab. "By targeting nanoparticles to the mitochondria of cancer cells and exposing dendritic cells to these activated cancer cells, we found that the dendritic cells produced a high concentration of chemical signals that they normally don't produce, and these signals have traditionally been integral to producing effective immune stimulation."
Dhar added that the "dendritic cells recognized the cancer as something foreign and began to produce high levels of interferon-gamma, which alerts the rest of the immune system to a foreign presence and signals it to attack. We basically used the cancer against itself."
She cautions that the results are preliminary, and the approach works only with certain forms of breast cancer. But if researchers can refine the process, this technology may one day serve as the foundation for a new cancer vaccine used to both prevent and treat disease.
"We particularly hope this technique could help patients with advanced metastatic disease that has spread to other parts of the body," said Dhar, who also is a member of the UGA Nanoscale Science and Engineering Center, Cancer Center and Center for Drug Discovery.
If the process were to become a treatment, doctors could biopsy a tumor from the patient and kill the cancerous cells with nanoparticles. They could then produce activated dendritic cells in bulk quantities in the lab under controlled conditions before the cells were injected into the patient.
Once in the bloodstream, the newly activated cells would alert the immune system to the cancer's presence and destroy it.
"These are the things we can now do with nanotechnology," Dhar said. "If we can refine the process further, we may be able to use similar techniques against other forms of cancer as well."
Besides Dhar and Marrache, other UGA researchers on the project were Smanla Tundup and Donald A. Harn. The work was supported by a startup grant from the National Institutes of Health (P30 GM 092378) to UGA, by the UGA Office of the Vice President for Research to Dhar and by a grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH AI056484) to Harn.
Nanoscale Science and Engineering Center: Full version of study: Franklin College of Arts and Sciences Chemistry, Department of Previously | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/24497 | Conditions InDepth: Viral Upper Respiratory Infections (Colds and Influenza)
Viral upper respiratory infections come in every degree of severity and cause symptoms in the ears, sinuses, throat, and nose. This report will cover two of the most common respiratory infections: the common cold and influenza (the flu).
The Upper Respiratory Tract
In the United States the broad category of viral respiratory illness is responsible for many school and work absenteeisms.
Influenza travels around the globe in yearly winter epidemics of varying magnitude. Major epidemics occur every 10-15 years and may kill upwards of 40,000 people or more in the United States. Most of the deaths occur in the elderly and those weakened by chronic illnesses, such as heart and respiratory diseases.
The common cold is characterized by nasal congestion, a runny nose, sneezing, and perhaps a sore throat, headache, and malaise (not feeling well). A fever is unusual. Symptoms resolve on their own usually within 1-2 weeks.
There are at least 200 known rhinoviruses responsible for the symptoms of a common cold. Some of these may also affect the lower respiratory tract and cause other conditions. Other viruses, such as respiratory syncytial virus can cause severe pneumonia in infants.
Influenza is a very specific illness caused by influenza viruses. It has a characteristic seasonal cycle that peaks in the winter. It also has typical symptoms, although they vary greatly in severity among cases. It may feel similar to a common cold, but it usually causes a high fever (102°F-104°F), significant malaise, and a dry cough along with a runny nose, headache, muscle ache, and sore throat.
Influenza viruses are divided into three groups: A, B, and C. Influenza A is the cause of the worst epidemics. This is because it changes its identity often, so that a person’s previously developed immunity may not recognize the new variation.
International organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) Epidemic and Pandemic Alert and Response (CSR) team are constantly searching the world for new variations of influenza viruses. Each year they attempt to identify the strains most likely to cause epidemics and make recommendations for developing vaccines against them.
What are the risk factors for colds and influenza?What are the symptoms of colds and influenza?How are colds and influenza diagnosed?What are the treatments for colds and influenza?Are there screening tests for colds and influenza?How can I reduce my risk of colds and influenza?What questions should I ask my doctor?Where can I get more information about colds and influenza?
National Center for Infectious Diseases. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at:
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod
World Health Organization website. Available at:
http://www.who.int/en | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/24696 | BIO Statement on Compassionate Use
Biotech companies have an ethical obligation to develop safe and effective drugs and biologics and make them available to all patients as quickly as possible.
March 18, 2014 Recommend
Biotech Leader Provides Testimony on Bioethical Issues in International Clinical Trials Ensuring Patient Safety and Continued Innovation Must Stand As Focus Of Follow-On Biologics Debate Points to Consider: Benefit-Risk
FAST Act Would Provide Patients with Accelerated Access to Innovative Therapies
Over the last several months there has been increased media coverage of “compassionate use” cases – or the treatment of seriously ill patients with experimental drugs or biologics outside of the traditional clinical trial process, when other treatments are not working. These cases are always difficult and painful for everyone involved - the patients, their families, and the companies working to find cures and gain FDA approval of their products as quickly as possible.
While BIO does not comment on individual companies or their decision-making in regards to compassionate use, as the trade association representing the industry, we can comment on the issue of early access to experimental products that have not yet received FDA approval. Biotech companies have an ethical obligation to develop safe and effective drugs and biologics and make them available to all patients as quickly as possible. There are instances when patients may request access to drugs and biologics prior to their approval. These requests typically come from seriously ill patients or their families who believe an experimental product could save or prolong their lives. In such cases, companies often have to address the challenge of equitable distribution of limited drug supply to a large number of patients in need. These decisions are particularly difficult and heart-wrenching when we know the personal stories of the individual patients. Today’s social media campaigns can make certain individual stories more visible than others, which makes the fair distribution of experimental drugs even more challenging.
People at biotech companies therefore often must make emotionally difficult decisions when trying to balance an individual's early access to a drug still in clinical trials against the company’s obligation to develop drugs for larger groups of patients and ensure these products gain regulatory approval as quickly as possible. In some cases, such early access programs could create a conflict between these two principles. In addition, even when compassionate use programs are in place, difficult decisions sometimes still must be made about which patients will get access to the limited amounts of the drug. These are issues of great concern to people in biotechnology companies, to regulators, and to patients and their families. All of the people concerned with public health, as well as the health of their own loved ones, want to ensure that safe and effective medicines are available as quickly as possible to people in need.
The scientists and researchers in biotech companies have dedicated their lives to helping others by conducting years of research to find cures for disease. Yet they know that even very promising early results do not mean that the experimental drug will help all patients in need or ultimately be approved as safe and effective; indeed the opposite may be true, and this is why further testing is always required. It also is essential for companies to consider whether the development and administration of a compassionate use program will be able to serve fairly all the patients potentially in need, and whether such a program will draw the attention of key company personnel and other resources away from the crucial task of getting the drug approved for a wider population. We recognize that the complex balancing of factors related to compassionate use programs can at times create situations that appear on one hand as deeply unfair to a single patient or family facing the unthinkable and holding out hope for a miracle. Yet the reality facing companies presented with these situations is whether individualized decisions could delay FDA approval of a drug or therapy for use in a larger number of suffering patients. BIO believes that these complex and difficult decisions require thoughtful involvement of the people working in biotech companies, regulators, and representatives of patients and their families. While the case of each individual patient may be moving and compelling, very difficult decisions must be often made to ensure fair and optimal use of limited resources, in order to achieve full evaluation of a drug’s safety and effectiveness as quickly as possible. Because of the importance of this issue to BIO members and the patients we serve, our Board Bioethics Committee reviewed the topic in depth and issued "Points to Consider" in April 2010 to help members analyze the many ethical challenges raised by early access programs. This document is available here: http://www.bio.org/sites/default/files/20100416.pdf. The Board Bioethics Committee will continue to work on developing a better path forward for all parties involved in such difficult and emotional cases.
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2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/24866 | CTPA Responds to Report on Cosmetics Blocking Androgens in Male Fetuses
Sep 2, 2008 | Contact Author | By: Katie Schaefer
Title: CTPA Responds to Report on Cosmetics Blocking Androgens in Male Fetuses
The Cosmetic, Toiletry and Perfumery Association (CTPA) has responded to reports questioning the safety of perfumes and scented body lotion for unborn males.
The CTPA states,"Safety is the number one priority for the cosmetics industry. As required by law, every single cosmetic and perfumery product is assessed for safety by qualified professionals before being placed on the market. Products must be and are safe for such use. Safety assessments take account of the fact that any cosmetic or perfume may be used by pregnant women at any time and that consumers will be exposed to complex mixtures of ingredients. Both the immediate and long-term consequences of use of the ingredients are taken into account."
The statement in in response to reports by the newswires Scotland on Sunday and the Daily Telegraph and Daily Mail claiming that pregnant women should avoid perfume, scented body creams and cosmetics. The report was based on research by Professor Richard Sharpe, the principal investigator in the Medical Research Council's human reproductive sciences unit. The reports claim that the reproductive systems of fetuses may be damaged by chemicals in personal care products used by their mothers. Sharpe's research reportedly discovered the chemicals to block the delivery of androgens in the fetuses, resulting in infertility problems or cancer later in life. Sharpe's research was conducted on rats.
According to the CTPA, feeding large doses of substances may produce adverse effects in experimental animals like rats, but low levels of exposure in normal cosmetics use are without any such adverse effects when applied topically to humans. CTPA stresses that cosmetics and perfumery products are safe for use during pregnancy.
Sharpe has added on the Sense about Science Web site that his research was taken out of context. He maintains that his research is not cosmetic related and that the chemicals tested are common environmental chemicals.
Sharpe will be presenting his research at the Simpson Symposia in Edinburgh, UK today. Close | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/24934 | News Digital Imaging Advancing Care at School of Dentistry Clinical instructor, Dr. Erika Benavides and third-year dental student Brandon Shoukri use digital imaging to access patient radiographs and a dental model as they discuss a comprehensive treatment plan.
Ann Arbor, MI — October 2, 2013 — Digital imaging is making significant inroads at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry.
New digital imaging equipment was recently installed in 22 clinics throughout the School to enhance the quality of care patients receive as well as prepare students in dental, dental hygiene, and graduate programs for the digital environment they will experience after graduation. The latest efforts build upon the successful use of digital technology in the Dr. Roy Roberts Preclinical Laboratory as well as the digital impression system available in dental student clinics.
For 10 years, clinical instructors have been using digital technology to demonstrate dental procedures that first- and second-year dental students watch on a monitor at each of 110 workstations. Students apply that knowledge and develop their clinical skills on models of the oral cavity (typodonts), plastic teeth, and mannequin heads prior to treating patients in the School’s clinics. More recently, students have been taking digital impressions and replacing traditional stone models with highly accurate and durable stereolithography models.
Benefits Cited
The new digital imaging equipment now being used includes intraoral X-ray units, sensors and phosphorous plates, as well as panoramic, panoramic-cephalogram, and cone beam computed tomography machines that provide excellent visualization of the teeth and bony structures of the head. The radiographic images “will appear on a monitor in seven seconds or less,” said Roger Gillie, director of Application Services in Dental Informatics.
Students and clinical faculty can zoom in on a digital image, highlight details and share radiographs. For example, residents in the oral surgery clinic, he said, “will be able to see radiographs taken in the emergency or predoctoral clinics before the patient is taken to that clinic for evaluation and treatment.” Electronic enhancements allow for greater review of image details and notes can be added as reminders of areas to watch in the future.
Light boxes that have been used for many years to view film X-rays have been removed in the radiology clinic. However, in four clinics where predoctoral students treat patients under the supervision of clinical faculty, light boxes will remain since it will take about a year to scan tens of thousands of film radiographs to digital format.
Dr. Stephen Stefanac, associate dean for Patient Services, said, “the quality of the digital X-ray images is exceptional and should help us to detect problems in patients earlier. Also important,” he added, “is that students can now show detailed images to their patients to help them understand the treatment options that are available.”
Extensive Rollout Preparation
The digital imaging initiative involved extensive collaboration among clinicians, radiologists, and staff in Patient Services, Radiology, Dental Informatics and others throughout the School, according to Dr. Erika Benavides, clinical assistant professor and oral and maxillofacial radiologist. She led the clinical digital imaging team.
“It was a giant research project,” Benavides said with a smile. “We reviewed a considerable amount of information from many different hardware vendors and, because the equipment had different capabilities, evaluated each system using objective criteria.” Also critical was choosing the digital imaging software to use. “The software is the foundation that allows us to capture and store the images using the different radiology equipment, and allows clinicians and students to share the images throughout the School or even across campus,” she said. “Our clinician users were actively involved in evaluating the software, so their input was essential in making a final decision.”
As Benavides talked to faculty and students, Gillie led a team of 12 people who “looked under the hood” to assess the digital technology being considered and evaluate its effectiveness. “The images had to be shared among 22 clinics at the School and three others at U-M Hospital where the School of Dentistry also has a clinic. The technology also had to be robust and user friendly for students, dental clinical faculty, students in graduate dental programs, and in research. Every area was important,” he said.
The Paper to Digital Transition
As the new school year began, Terri Stilwell, radiology clinic instructor, trained small groups of dental, dental hygiene, and graduate students how to use the new equipment. “The students are adapting to the changes very well and are excited to use the new technology,” she said. “They’re tech savvy and amazed at how easy it is to use.”
The transition to digital imaging has also led to a change in vocabulary.
As she trained one group of predoctoral students, Stilwell caught herself saying “film X-rays” and quickly corrected that. “It’s hard to break an old habit, especially when one has used a phrase like ‘film X-rays’ for so many years,” she said with a smile. Let’s use ‘digital images’ instead.”
After January 1, 2014, the School will no longer create a paper record for new patients. “We will then digitize portions of 30,000 existing records,” Stefanac said. “When the paper records are in digital form and combined with new digital images, our students will have easier access to all their patient information.”
Eventually, digital images will be accessible on Apple and Android mobile devices. All information will be encrypted to comply with all protected health information standards.
Collaboration Across U-M
“It was a great team effort. People from many disciplines came together to make this happen,” Benavides said. “Our faculty members were excited to learn about the capabilities of the new digital equipment and how to use it. Dental students were also enthused because they use technology extensively.”
Gillie lauded the help received from the School’s Technology Services group, U-M’s Information Technology Communications (ITCOM) unit and the Medical School’s radiology department. “Working together we installed 80 imaging stations that allow us to take, store and manage digital images that are available on more than 1,000 computers,” he said. “Digital imaging is an excellent example of how the School of Dentistry is using technology to enhance the educational experience of students and the care provided to their patients.” | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/25003 | Division of Health Sciences Home Administration Events News
News Stories Search News Articles News Staff For News Media Main Campus News Contact Us About Attack on America: Shock, horror and prayers for healing follow attacks
Though terrorists hit New York, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania, the pain reached PCMH and the Brody School of Medicine
The American flag at the Brody Building flies at half-staff following the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Photo by Cliff Hollis
GREENVILLE, N.C. (Oct. 4, 2001)
— The prayers spoken, the song sung, Dr. Larry Austin looked across the crowded Pitt County Memorial Hospital auditorium. "We are strong," said Austin, director of pastoral services at PCMH. "We will survive this. We are in pain, but that's OK."
Thus ended a special service to remember those killed in the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in Washington D.C., New York City and Pennsylvania, though many of the crowd of approximately 200 lingered to talk and share.
Earlier, a number of people had spent part of their lunch hour in the auditorium of the Brody Medical Sciences Building reflecting and praying.
The medical community was slowly getting back into a routine, though getting back to the same normal that existed before 8:45 a.m. Sept. 11, when an airliner carrying 92 people crashed into the north tower of the World Trade Center, might not be possible.
"This is one of those days when we will all remember where we were," Jim Ross, PCMH president said.
Two airliners had plowed into the twin towers of the World Trade Center, a third had slammed into the Pentagon, and a fourth had crashed in Pennsylvania, perhaps on its way to the Capitol or the White House. Around the hospital, people were gathered around televisions or listening to radios. Executives were wondering what might happen next, how far the disasters might reach.
As events unfolded, special measures the hospital took included increasing the police presence around the perimeter of the campus, making sure that doors that were supposed to be locked were locked and making sure that supplies were at adequate levels, especially in light of air traffic being grounded. Chaplains with the pastoral services department also made themselves available to those wishing to speak with them about the attacks.
"We are trying to do all the things necessary to support your staff and families and all the people in this building," Dave McRae, PCMH and UHS chief executive officer told managers during a called meeting hours after the attacks. "This is a time of crisis. This is in essence a declaration of war on this country and our very way of life and our freedoms."
McRae added that the UHS family will remain strong and continue its mission in the face of the attacks. "In the meantime, we have work to do," he said. "We can't shut down and go home. We have people to take care of."
The attacks also disturbed and angered local Muslim leaders. President Bush has named Saudi exile Osama bin Laden, a Muslim, as a top suspect in orchestrating the attacks.
"[The terrorists] should be considered as individuals, and no ethnic group should be involved," said Dr. M. Saeed Dar, a professor of pharmacology at the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University. "It is bad as a human being to do that. It is worse as a Muslim. Taking one human life is like taking (all) humanity. No human being has a right to do something like that."
Dar, a native of Pakistan, said most Muslims in his homeland and elsewhere are moderates who do not condone terrorism. "We're shocked. We've never seen anything like this in the world," Dar said. He added that local Muslims were joining relief efforts by donating blood and contributing money.
Dr. Mareen Long, a 1995 ECU medical graduate and surgery resident in Fairfax, Va., was at a conference in Washington, D.C., when the attacks occurred. She said a physician from New York City was speaking when a clock fell from the wall at 8:27 a.m., prompting the speaker to say, "That's not a good omen."
An hour later, after an airliner had struck the Pentagon, the conference center was evacuated, and Long joined the thousands of Washingtonians walking the streets.
"Walking over the Key Bridge, you could see the black smoke coming out of the Pentagon," she said. "It was like a mass exodus out of Washington.
"A lot of people are in a daze," she continued. "For two days, I had trouble concentrating. The biggest thing, I really felt helpless. It's been really stressful."
Meanwhile, at ECU more than 2,200 students and others lined up to donate blood Sept. 11 and 12. Only about 950 made it through the line, with 757 units being collected. Also, the Student Government Association began a drive to raise $18,000, or approximately $1 from each student, to assist in relief efforts. The SGA also held a candlelight vigil Sept. 13 at Joyner Library. The ECU Student Union Cultural Awareness Committee offered free admission to a Sept. 13 program at Wright Auditorium titled, "Sacred Music, Sacred Dance for World Healing."
The university also held a memorial service Sept. 12 in Wright Auditorium to honor victims of the terrorist attacks, canceling noon classes so students and faculty could attend. Sept. 14, ECU staff, faculty and students gathered at the Cupola to stop and reflect on the tragic events of this week.
At PCMH, Linda Baker was one of three operating room staff members who hung red, white and blue bows over doorways outside and inside the O.R. area.
"We're just being patriotic, showing that we're in support," Baker said. Over in the pre-op room, six staff members wore shirts bearing the American flag.
In the medical intensive care unit, 9-year-old Brianna Peaden, daughter of Ron and Neva Peaden, a nurse and respiratory therapist, respectively, had written a message on a dry-erase board to PCMH employees, urging them to pray for those who lost loved ones or were hurt in the attacks. "This was a hard day for all of you," Brianna wrote.
Next to her message, internal medicine resident Dr. Chirag Patel responded. "I wish we adults could make this world a better place for beautiful, caring kids like you," he wrote.
"There are a lot of people in the hospital who are affected," Patel said later. "I feel bad for the youth who have to deal with it. They shouldn't have to see it. This is a scarring event."
"I was out just yesterday, and people were snickering, looking," he said. "I guess that's to be expected, but I didn't do it (hijack the airliners)."
Though the medical center and individual health care professionals were prepared to go to Washington and New York to help, sadly their services weren't needed. So complete was the devastation that few survivors remained to need medical attention.
On a more positive note, the huge numbers of people who donated blood boosted low supplies to more than adequate levels. With that in mind, officials of PCMH and the American Red Cross have decided to keep the hospital's previously scheduled blood drive on Nov. 7 rather than moving it up.
"There will still be a need in the future," said Will Moore of ViQuest, who coordinates blood drives at PCMH. Medical students follow coverage of the attacks on their laptops during a Sept. 12 class. Photo by Cliff Hollis
| 252-744-2481 Division of Health Sciences
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2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/25563 | Home > Living With Cancer > Treatment Choices Charting the Best Course
10 ways to make better decisions about cancer care
For assistance in learning more about cancer treatments and accompanying risks, call the Patient Education Resource Center at 734-647-8626.
Talking with doctors about cancer and cancer treatments can feel like learning a new language. People facing cancer diagnoses often need help to understand their treatment options -- and the risks and benefits of each choice
"People are making life-and-death decisions that may affect their survival and they need to know what they're getting themselves into. Cancer treatments and tests can be serious. Patients need to know what kind of side effects they might experience as a result of the treatment they undergo," says Angela Fagerlin, Ph.D., associate professor of internal medicine at the University of Michigan Medical School and a U-M Comprehensive Cancer Center researcher.
Fagerlin and colleagues recently published a commentary in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute that outlines 10 things health care professionals can do to improve the way they communicate information about treatment risks to patients. Here, they explain how patients can tap into these same best practices to become fluent in the language of cancer care and better understand their options.
1. Insist on plain language.
If you don't understand something your doctor says, ask him or her to explain it better. "Doctors don't know when patients don't understand them. They want patients to stop them and ask questions," Fagerlin says.
2. Focus on the absolute risk.
The most important statistic to consider is the chance that something will happen to you. "It"s important that patients and doctors know how to communicate these numbers, and patients need to have the courage to ask their doctor to present it so they can understand," Fagerlin says.
Sometimes, the effect of cancer treatments is described using language like "this drug will cut your risk in half." But, such relative-risk statements don't tell you anything about how likely this is. Research has shown that using relative risk makes both patients and doctors more likely to favor a treatment because they believe it to be more beneficial than it actually may be.
If, instead, your doctor told you that "the drug will lower your risk of cancer from 4% to 2%," now you know that most people won't get cancer regardless. And it will give you the exact benefit you would get from taking the drug. Fagerlin suggests asking doctors for this absolute-risk information for a truer picture.
3. Visualize your risk.
Instead of just thinking about risk numbers, try drawing out 100 boxes and coloring in one box for each percentage point of risk. So, if your risk of a side effect is 10%, you would color in 10 boxes. This kind of visual representation, called a pictograph, can help people understand the meaning behind the numbers. Ask your doctor to draw it out for you or do it yourself.
4. Consider risk as a frequency rather than as percentages.
What does it mean to say 60%t of men who have a radical prostatectomy will experience impotence? Imagine a roomful of 100 people: 60 of them will have this side effect and 40 will not. Thinking of risk in terms of groups of people can help make statistics easier to understand.
5. Focus on the additional risk.
You may be told the risk of a certain side effect occurring is 7%. But if you didn't take the drug, is there a chance you'd still experience that? Ask what the additional or incremental risk of a treatment is. "You want to make sure the risk number you're being presented is the risk due to the treatment and not a risk you would face no matter what," Fagerlin says.
6. The order of information matters.
Studies have shown that the last thing you hear is most likely to stick. When making a treatment decision, don't forget to consider all of the information and statistics you've learned.
7. Write it down.
You may be presented with a lot of information. At the end of the discussion, ask your doctor if a written summary of the risks and benefits is available. Or ask your doctor to help you summarize all the information in writing.
8. Don't get hung up on averages.
Some studies have found that learning the average risk of a disease does not help patients make good decisions about what's best for them. Your risk is what matters -- not anyone else's. Focus on the information that applies specifically to you.
9. Less may be more.
Don't get overwhelmed by too much information. In some cases, there may be many different treatment options, but only a few may be relevant to you. Ask your doctor to narrow it down and only discuss with you the options and facts most relevant for you.
10. Consider your risk over time.
Your risk may change over time. "What seems like a small risk over the next year or two may look a lot larger when considered over your lifetime," says study author Brian Zikmund-Fisher, Ph.D., assistant professor of health behavior and health education at the U-M School of Public Health.
If you're told the five-year risk of your cancer returning after a certain treatment, ask what the 10-year or 20-year risk is. In some cases, this data might not be available, but always be aware of the time frame involved.
Making Decisions and Charting the Best Course Resources
from the U-M Comprehensive Cancer Center:
Patient Education Resource Center at U-M Comprehensive Cancer Center
The web is teeming with resources for patients who would like to take control of their health care. A good place to start your research is with the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center's Patient Education Center. Our librarian, Alexandra Sarkozy, can help you find the right information for you. Also, visit the PERC to receive a Patient Tool Kit to help you stay organized.
Learning to Choose:
How to make the right medical decisions for you
Thrive profiles one family's path to choosing medical care at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center. The story discusses research at the U-M Center for Behavioral and Decision Sciences and Medicine that seeks to help people make the best choices for their care.
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Thrive Issue: Winter, 2012 | 医学 |
2014-42/1178/en_head.json.gz/25619 | Tuberculosis looks set to defy concerted efforts to treat it successfully with powerful drugs, turning the clock back to the 1930s, warn the editors of the journal Thorax in a special themed issue to mark World TB day on March 24. TB often lies dormant with no symptoms, but in a proportion of cases, becomes active, predominantly attacking the lungs. But it can also affect the bones and nervous system, and if left untreated can be fatal. The infection is developing increasing resistance around the world to the powerful drugs currently used to treat it. During the 1930s, dedicated sanitaria and invasive surgery were commonly prescribed for those with the infection — usually caused by
Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which the editors describe as “the most successful human pathogen of all time".
“Whatever we may have once optimistically thought, TB remains with death, taxes and political chicanery as being inevitable, unavoidable and deeply unpleasant,” write the joint editors, Andy Bush and Ian Pavord. “It shows every sign of weathering the storm and superb randomised controlled trials, to emerge in ever-increasingly drug-resistant forms, potentially turning the clock back to the 1930s. This edition of Thorax, coinciding with world TB day, is themed to recognise the ongoing sinister successes of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, unarguably the most successful human pathogen of all time.”
The issue contains international research papers, looking at a broad range of issues, from the risk of TB after seroconversion to HIV infection, to the impact of ethnicity on the pattern of disease.
Highlights include: The ability of new single step and cost effective tests to eradicate the need for chest x-ray screens for newly arrived immigrants to the UK, who account for 70% of TB reported infections in the UK
http://press.psprings.co.uk/thx/february/thx201542.pdf The vulnerability of patients with diabetes to more severe TB infection and a higher probability of unsuccessful treatment
http://press.psprings.co.uk/thx/february/thx201756.pdf A 16-fold increase in non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infection among patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) treated with steroids: 1 in 3 people with NTM die within 3 years of contracting the infection
http://press.psprings.co.uk/thx/february/thx201772.pdf The ability of childhood BCG vaccination against latent TB to last for decades afterwards, resolving some of the doubts about its long term impact
http://press.psprings.co.uk/thx/february/thx202208.pdf The cost effectiveness of automatically treating young children in close contact with an infected adult, without testing them, in a bid to curb the spread of the infection.
http://press.psprings.co.uk/thx/february/thx200933.pdf Plus editors’ comments and overview of the themed issue:
http://press.psprings.co.uk/thx/february/thx203268.pdf To top | 医学 |
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in Dataset Viewer.
Industry models play a crucial role in driving enterprise intelligence transformation and innovative development. High-quality industry data is key to improving the performance of large models and realizing industry applications. However, datasets currently used for industry model training generally suffer from issues such as insufficient data volume, low quality, and lack of domain expertise.
To address these problems, we constructed and applied 22 industry data processing operators to clean and filter 3.4TB of high-quality multi-industry classified Chinese and English language pre-training datasets from over 100TB of open-source datasets including WuDaoCorpora, BAAI-CCI, redpajama, and SkyPile-150B. The filtered data consists of 1TB of Chinese data and 2.4TB of English data. To facilitate user utilization, we annotated the Chinese data with 12 types of labels including alphanumeric ratio, average line length, language confidence score, maximum line length, and perplexity.
Furthermore, to validate the dataset's performance, we conducted continued pre-training, SFT, and DPO training on a medical industry demonstration model. The results showed a 20% improvement in objective performance and a subjective win rate of 82%.
Industry categories: 18 categories including medical, education, literature, finance, travel, law, sports, automotive, news, etc. Rule-based filtering: Traditional Chinese conversion, email removal, IP address removal, link removal, Unicode repair, etc. Chinese data labels: Alphanumeric ratio, average line length, language confidence score, maximum line length, perplexity, toxicity character ratio, etc. Model-based filtering: Industry classification language model with 80% accuracy Data deduplication: MinHash document-level deduplication Data size: 1TB Chinese, 2.4TB English
Industry classification data size:
| Industry Category | Data Size (GB) | Industry Category | Data Size (GB) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Programming | 4.1 | Politics | 326.4 |
| Law | 274.6 | Mathematics | 5.9 |
| Education | 458.1 | Sports | 442 |
| Finance | 197.8 | Literature | 179.3 |
| Computer Science | 46.9 | News | 564.1 |
| Technology | 333.6 | Film & TV | 162.1 |
| Travel | 82.5 | Medicine | 189.4 |
| Agriculture | 41.6 | Automotive | 40.8 |
| Emotion | 31.7 | Artificial Intelligence | 5.6 |
| Total (GB) | 3386.5 |
For the convenience of users to download and use, we have split the large dataset into sub-datasets for 18 industries. The current one is the sub-dataset for the medicine industry.
Data processing workflow:
- Downloads last month
- 2,553
Size of the auto-converted Parquet files (First 5GB):
2.92 GB
Number of rows (First 5GB):
878,630
Estimated number of rows:
42,623,734