Recent Health Articles: May 2012

Thursday, May 31, 2012

Family-School Intervention Effective in Reducing ADHD Impairments in Elementary Students, Children's Hospital Study Finds

PHILADELPHIA, May 31, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Researchers at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia have developed a 12-week intervention program for schools and families shown in a study to reduce impairments related to attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in elementary school children with the diagnosis.

ADHD affects about eight percent of children and often leads to poor school performance, tension within the family and discipline problems at school. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a family-school intervention using daily report cards, behavioral consultation, and homework interventions designed to improve the home and educational functioning of the student. The study, "A Family-School Intervention for Children With ADHD: Results of a Randomized Clinical Trial," was published this month in The Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology.

"This is the first study to demonstrate a behavioral intervention for students with ADHD can improve the parent-teacher relationship," said lead author Thomas J. Power, Ph.D., a psychologist and the director of the Center for Management of ADHD at Children's Hospital. "The study highlights the importance of coordinating the efforts of both the family and the school. These results are noteworthy in that they were achieved using a brief three-month intervention."

The study included 199 families with children in grades two through six participating in weekly sessions through the ADHD Center at Children's Hospital. Families participated in six group sessions, four family sessions and two school-based consultations. The "Family-School Success (FSS)" program is designed to improve parenting skills and involvement in the child's education through better, more frequent and more involved communication with teachers. The study compared FSS to a matched group receiving a less specific treatment.

The study results showed the Family-School Success program -- a relatively brief behavioral intervention -- helped parents become more involved in education and collaboration with the teachers. The program also showed greater improvement in child homework performance and parenting behavior as compared to the control group. About 40 percent of the study participants were taking ADHD medication, but the study showed that the effect of the Family-School Success program was the same whether the child was taking medication or not.

As a follow up, the study authors recommend offering the treatment in school, rather than in a medical office space as was used during the study, to improve the student's access to care and add the option to include more intensive classroom intervention. The researchers also recommend more investigation into the longer-term effects of the intervention as well as additional booster sessions.

"The FSS program seems to work because it focuses on improving parenting practices, family involvement in education, and the quality of the parent-teacher relationship," Power said. "Currently, when a child struggles in school, the focus is usually on making changes within the school. This makes sense, but this study demonstrates that families serve a critical role in promoting school success for children with ADHD."

Other study authors are Jennifer A. Mautone; Stephen L. Soffer; Stephen A. Marshall; Jaclyn Sharman; Nathan J. Blum; Marianne Glanzman; Josephine Elia; Abbas F. Jawad., all of Children's Hospital and Angela T. Clarke of West Chester University.

To view the full report, click here: http://psycnet.apa.org/psycinfo/2012-09581-001/

About The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia: The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia was founded in 1855 as the nation's first pediatric hospital. Through its long-standing commitment to providing exceptional patient care, training new generations of pediatric healthcare professionals and pioneering major research initiatives, Children's Hospital has fostered many discoveries that have benefited children worldwide. Its pediatric research program is among the largest in the country, ranking second in National Institutes of Health funding. In addition, its unique family-centered care and public service programs have brought the 516-bed hospital recognition as a leading advocate for children and adolescents. For more information, visit http://www.chop.edu.

Contact: Juliann Walsh, Public Relations
The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
Office Phone: 267-426-6054
Email: walshj1@email.chop.edu

SOURCE The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia

Yasso Frozen Greek Yogurt Launches $10,000 Getaway

BOSTON, May 31, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- In celebration of summer, Yasso Frozen Greek Yogurt is launching the 2012 Hello Summer National Tour and giving away a $10,000 Goodbye Winter Getaway.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120126/NE42323LOGO-b)

The Hello Summer National Tour will travel throughout the United States between Memorial Day and Labor Day making stops at family festivals, community fairs, road races, and charity events. Consumers will be treated to free samples, coupons, and the chance to enter the Goodbye Winter $10,000 Getaway.

Between now and September 4, 2012 consumers who visit Yasso's tour website (www.teamyasso.com/hellosummer) or Facebook page (www.facebook.com/YassoFrozenYogurt) have the opportunity to enter the $10,000 sweepstakes with just the click of a button.

"Our fans love summer, and we love our fans. We are hitting the road with the Hello Summer National Tour to meet our supportive base while introducing Yasso to thousands of new fans," said Drew Harrington, Co-Founder of Yasso Frozen Greek Yogurt. "For one lucky fan, we will be extending that summertime feeling with a trip of a lifetime. The $10,000 sweepstakes is our way to say thank you."

Delivering on consumers' demands for a healthy alternative, Yasso Frozen Greek Yogurt has become a leader in the frozen novelty sector with the introduction of frozen Greek yogurt to U.S. markets. Focusing on quality and taste Yasso has won consumers over by crafting an all natural product that is low in calories, high in protein, and fat free. Yasso Frozen Greek Yogurt bars and smoothies can be found in supermarkets and wholesale stores nationwide.

About Yasso®
Founded by childhood friends, Amanda Klane and Drew Harrington, Apollo Food Group launched Yasso® in early 2010 as the first frozen Greek yogurt bars and smoothies. Delivering on consumers' desires for a healthy alternative to frozen treats, Yasso® has quickly become one of the fastest growing brands in the frozen novelty category. Yasso® bars and smoothies come in a variety of flavors, are all natural, fat-free, high in protein, low in calories, and are made with rBST-free milk. To learn more about Amanda and Drew's story and the creation of Yasso®, please visit http://www.teamyasso.com/our-story.

Become a fan of Yasso® on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/YassoFrozenYogurt
For more information visit: http://www.teamyasso.com

SOURCE Yasso

Historically Low Growth in Healthcare Spending Expected in 2013, Projects PwC Health Research Institute

NEW YORK, May 31, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Healthcare spending in the United States is expected to grow at a historically low rate of 7.5 percent next year, according to the annual Behind the Numbers report on medical cost trend, published today by the Health Research Institute (HRI) of PwC US. The projection continues a pattern of slower medical growth, a reflection of the sluggish economy, increased focus on cost containment by the industry, lower use of services by cost-conscious patients and efforts by employers to hold down expenses.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120531/NY16182 )

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100917/NY66894LOGO )

Medical inflation has been lower than expected for the past three years, and recalibration of previous estimates shows a low range of 7 percent to 7.5 percent from 2010 through 2013. Historically, healthcare spending bounces back up as the economy recovers. But, the HRI report identifies structural changes that may temper that pattern. A fourth year of relatively low growth suggests that the gap between healthcare spending and overall inflation may be narrowing to a more sustainable level.

Medical cost trend helps insurers and large employers set premium rates for the following year. For US employers, the net impact of next year's increase could be as low as 5.5 percent, after accounting for changes in benefit design by purchasers, HRI estimates.

Employers are focused on two primary strategies to control medical costs in 2013: increasing the employee share of costs and expanding health and wellness programs, according to the PwC 2012 Health and Well-Being Touchstone Survey of 1,400 employers in 34 industries. The survey also showed that plan design features with the most significant changes in 2012 were a considerable increase in in-network deductibles, emergency room co-payments and prescription drug co-payments. Highlights include:

Nearly six in ten employers (57 percent) are considering increasing employee contributions to health plans.
Half of employers are considering increasing cost-sharing through plan design, such as higher deductibles. The average emergency room co-pay, for example, is now $125 or more.
More than half of employers are considering raising employee prescription drug plan costs.
Average enrollment in high deductible plans coupled with a Health Reimbursement Account has increased to 43.2 percent in 2012 from 34.2 percent in 2010.
Nearly three quarters of employers (72 percent) offer wellness programs, and half of those say they are considering expanding those programs next year.

"Slower growth in healthcare costs could be the 'new normal,'" said Michael Thompson, principal, human resource services, PwC. "We're seeing long-term trends that could keep cost increases in check. As employers shift expenses to their employees, for example, these workers are pursuing lower-cost alternatives. Even as the economy strengthens, changes in behavior by employers and consumers may help limit medical growth."

In Behind the Numbers, HRI explores the leading cross currents likely to shape medical cost trend next year. One of two factors expected to "inflate" the trend in 2013 is an uptick in the consumption of healthcare as newly hired workers obtain coverage and patients who postponed elective procedures feel more confident about spending. Medical and technological advances that provide more specialized, sophisticated and expensive treatment also are expected to push up overall healthcare spending.

Four factors HRI expects will "deflate" the medical cost trend in 2013 are: Market pressure to reduce medical supply and equipment costs; increased popularity of new methods to deliver primary care; increased availability of comparative cost information; and accelerated savings from the pharmaceutical patent cliff.

"Market forces are driving demands for better outcomes and reasonable costs," said Kelly Barnes, US health industries leader, PwC. "The question is: How will the industry respond? We expect to see health organizations create services and partnerships that engage consumers and improve quality. It isn't just dollars spent, but value derived."

Behind the Numbers outlines the actions that employers, insurers, providers and pharmaceutical and life sciences companies are taking now to manage costs as well as strategies for the future. This is the seventh annual Behind the Numbers report published by HRI.

A full copy of Medical Cost Trend: Behind the Numbers 2013 and highlights of the 2012 Health and Well-Being Touchstone Survey are available at www.pwc.com/us/MedicalCostTrend and at www.pwc.com/us/touchstone2012.

About the Research
To estimate medical cost trend, HRI conducts research each year to identify new and relevant factors that accelerate or reduce costs. For the 2013 medical cost trend, HRI relied on multiple sources including interviews with health plan actuaries, providers, health plans and employers, a review of financial analyst reports, government spending data and other published sources, as well as the PwC 2012 Health and Well-Being Touchstone Survey. The 2012 Touchstone survey was completed in the first quarter of 2012 and contains detailed information from approximately 1,400 companies in 34 different industries as well as interviews with health plan actuaries and other executives whose companies provide health insurance for 47 million American workers and their families.

About PwC Health Research Institute (HRI)
PwC's Health Research Institute provides new intelligence, perspectives, and analysis on trends affecting health-related industries. The Health Research Institute helps executive decision makers navigate change through primary research and collaborative exchange. Our views are shaped by a network of professionals with executive and day-to-day experience in the health industry. HRI research is not sponsored by businesses, government, or other institutions.

About PwC's Health Industries Group
PwC's Health Industries Group (www.pwc.com/us/healthindustries) is a leading advisor to public and private organizations across the health industries, including healthcare providers, pharmaceuticals, health and life sciences, payers, employers, academic institutions and non-health organizations with significant presence in the health market. Follow PwC Health Industries at http://twitter.com/PwCHealth.

About the PwC Network
PwC firms help organizations and individuals create the value they're looking for. We're a network of firms in 158 countries with close to 169,000 people who are committed to delivering quality in assurance, tax and advisory services. Tell us what matters to you and find out more by visiting us at www.pwc.com.

© 2012 PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, a Delaware limited liability partnership. All rights reserved. PwC refers to the US member firm, and may sometimes refer to the PwC network. Each member firm is a separate legal entity. Please see www.pwc.com/structure for further details. This content is for general information purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for consultation with professional advisors.

SOURCE PwC

The Health Benefits of Eating Greens

Are You Getting Enough Greens In Your Diet?

Do you love eating greens (and no not green M&M's!), as in green vegetables and other edible plants? Some of you maybe saying "yes", and the majority of you maybe saying "NO". I think most of us would admit that eating more food in its natural state is better for us, especially eating enough green plant matter.

Depending on where you live and the climate, eating enough greens can be a challenge. I often find that in the winter time, I just don't crave greens, especially cold salads. If you are trying to get more greens in your diet there are several ways to accomplish this.

Ways of Eating Greens

One way is through eating a variety of salads of course. However, the latest "buzz" in getting more greens into one's diet is through juicing, especially wheatgrass juicing.

Have you heard of taking wheatgrass shots? Why a shot? Well, concentrated grass juice is pretty potent, and a "shot" is usually about as much as most people can handle to get down.

So, you can do shots of just green juice like wheatgrass or dandelion greens, or you can use juice recipes and mix greens with fruits like apples. Adding apples is a great way to make the juice more palatable.

Another way to get greens into your diet is through adding them to smoothies. This way is actually touted as being healthier, because you are getting the fiber as well, which has important nutrients in itself. Plus, fiber is the broom that cleans out your digestive system.

Even for those who like to eat their veggies raw, there are ways of making green foods warm for those cold winter months. Having a powerful blender like a Vita Mix is a great way to blend foods and warm them without cooking them on the stove. The longer you blend your ingredients the warmer they will become. This is a good way to make soups without getting them too hot and destroying the important nutrients and enzymes in the food.

A second way to warm foods without cooking them, if you want to keep the integrity of the plant to protect the nutrients and enzymes, is to use a food dehydrator. In the raw food world, keeping food under 115 degrees when preparing it is the basic standard used to keep food from being denatured.

Benefits of Eating Greens

Perhaps, you know it is a good idea to eat more greens in your diet, but at this point, you're not really motivated to make changes to your diet habits. Here are some good reasons to consider adding more green plant foods to your diet.

Green plant foods balance your pH. Many modern foods are acidic in nature and can lead to health issues, so balancing your body with neutralizing foods like greens keeps your body's pH at a healthier level.
Some dark greens include omega-3 essential fatty acids, which are important to many of the body's functions, especially for brain function.
Chlorophyl in green plants acts as a blood detoxifier.
They are high in nutrients and enzymes necessary for your body to function, such as iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium and vitamins, including vitamins K, C, E, and many of the B vitamins. (Dead foods like white bread, refined sugar, cookies and the like rob you of health and vitality.)
In greens, you'll find a variety of phytonutrients including beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, which protect your cells from damage and your eyes from age-related problems.
Greens are powerful antioxidants, and they support the immune system.

And these are just some of the benefits of eating greens. Living a longer more productive life is the best one!

Famous Raw Foodist, Victoria Boutenko, on Eating Greens

Now watch what Victoria Boutenko author of Green for Life and leading raw food speaker and teacher has to say about the importance of eating green.

She shares how she overcame tremendous health issues through diet.

Part One

Don't miss Part Two for the final part of the story on how Victoria overcame the downfalls in her health program and diet.

Part Two

Making A Green Smoothie with Victoria Boutenko

And, for more information on getting greens into your diet and for some great ideas on how to do that, check out the two articles below.

Living Food Recipes

Alkaline Food List

You'll receive FREE my special report...

"GREAT AWAKENING Natural Health Tips!"

Each tip is a step by step guide you can use to AWAKEN and make improvements to your natural health lifestyle.

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Return from Eating Greens
to the Natural Health Girl Home Page

Source: www.natural-health-girl.com

Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Zusammenarbeit von Bilcare und CSIR bei der nonClonableID-Technologie zur Authentifizierung von Arzneimitteln

PUNE, Indien, May 31, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

Der Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (Rat für wissenschaftliche und industrielle Forschung/CSIR) hat im Rahmen seiner New Millennium Indian Technology Leadership Initiative (Initiative für die technische Vorreiterrolle Indiens/NMITLI) die Umsetzung des Projekts mit dem Titel "Customized adaptation of nonClonableID technology to establish authenticity of medical products" (individuelle Anpassung der nonClonableID-Technologie zur Authentifizierung von Arzneimitteln) von M/S. Bilcare Limited in Pune, Indien, genehmigt. Dr. Praful Naik, Geschäftsführer und Chief Scientific Officer von Bilcare Limited, wurde als Hauptforscher für dieses Projekt ausgewählt.

Eines der größten Probleme der pharmazeutischen Industrie Indiens, sowohl im Land selbst als auch beim Export, sind gefälschte Medikamente. Sie haben äußerst negative Auswirkungen sowohl auf die Pharmaunternehmen als auch auf Behörden und Öffentlichkeit. In diesem Zusammenhang wurde die Ermittlung der Herkunft von Arzneimitteln als entscheidender Faktor für die Bereitstellung qualitativ hochwertiger medizinischer Produkte identifiziert. Das Problem hierbei besteht nicht nur darin, dass illegal produzierte Medikamente gefunden und beseitigt werden, sondern auch darin, dass dafür gesorgt werden muss, dass die Patienten authentische Medikamente einnehmen.

Das CSIR-NMITLI-Bilcare-Team wurde beauftragt nachzuweisen, dass eine neue nonClonableID-Technologie die bisher unerfüllten Forderungen nach Authentifizierung von Medizinprodukten und mehr Patientensicherheit erfüllen kann. Die nonClonableID-Technologie basiert auf neuen Aspekten der Materialwissenschaft und dem Zufallsprinzip und erzeugt eindeutige, nicht duplizierbare charakteristische Merkmale. Wenn diese Merkmale verarbeitet, digitalisiert und aktiviert werden, können sie zur eindeutigen Identifizierung verwendet werden. Die Hauptziele des CSIR-NMITLI-Projekts sind der Nachweis eines Nutzens von nonClonableID-Tags für sicheres Nachverfolgen der Arzneimittel vom Hersteller bis zum Ausgabepunkt, d. h. für eine Art elektronischen Stammbaum, sowie in der Verbesserung der Medikamenten-Compliance von Patienten.

Dank dieser öffentlich-privaten Partnerschaft können CSIR und Bilcare ihre für beide Partner interessanten Forschungsfelder im Gesundheitswesen erweitern, fachliches Know-how für allgemeine und spezielle wissenschaftliche Gebiete aufbauen und Technologien entwickeln, die auf die Anforderungen unseres Landes eingehen.

CSIR wurde 1942 gegründet, ist eine vom Premierminister Indiens geleitete autonome Gesellschaft und gehört zu den weltweit modernsten und größten öffentlich finanzierten wissenschaftlichen und industriellen Forschungsinstitutionen.

Bilcare Technologies, ein Unternehmensbereich von Bilcare Limited, ist Marktführer im Bereich Erforschung und Erzeugung modernster Lösungen für Fälschungs- und Markenschutz sowie Produktsicherheit für unterschiedliche Branchen.

Ansprechpartner:

Dr. Sudeep Kumar, Head - Planning and Performance Division, CSIR, sk@csir.res.in; Tel. +91-011-23316748, http://rdpp.csir.res.in

Dr. Praful Naik, Bilcare Limited, praful.naik@bilcare.com; Tel. +44(0)20-30257700

Source: www.prnewswire.com

Important Tips to Help You Get That Smooth Velvety Skin

Are you looking for a way to get that smooth velvety skin that you have always wanted? If your answer is yes, then you also need to be aware of some important pointers that will help you achieve the best results. Source

Dr. Hardeep Dhindsa of Reno, NV is Honored as a Compassionate Doctor

After tallying hundreds of thousands of patient reviews, Dr. Hardeep Dhindsa of Reno, NV has been identified as one of our nation's Most Compassionate Doctors.

RENO, Nev., May 30, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Patients' Choice has announced that Dr. Hardeep Dhindsa has been named a Compassionate Doctor honoree for 2011.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120530/DC15901)

In 2011, nearly 100 million patients across the United States used websites including Vitals.com, PatientsChoice.org, and UCompareHealthCare.com to provide feedback about experiences with their physicians, rating them on various aspects of the care they provide.

The Patients' Choice annual Compassionate Doctor recognition program honors the top 3% of U.S. physicians, including Dr. Dhindsa, whose patients have gone out of their way to give them the highest possible ratings in the category of bedside manner, while also ranking them very highly in five other categories.

The basis of this award – a doctor's bedside manner score – is particularly important, because it conveys the level of comfort a patient feels. Medical research has shown that the more comfortable a patient is with his doctor, the more likely he is to disclose all important health information and follow a prescribed treatment plan, thus leading to a better outcome.

"While many physicians receive positive feedback from patients, relatively few receive such high praise about the compassion that accompanies their care," said Erika Boyer, Vice President of Consumer Research at Patients' Choice. "We congratulate Dr. Dhindsa on this achievement."

About Dr. Hardeep Dhindsa: a short profile by and about the honoree:

At HDRetina, we are focused on optimizing each patient's experience through our excellence in care and patient education. Further, we strive to deliver high quality retinal care in an efficient manner that respects each patient's time. Our team is distinguished by attention to detail and sincere compassion. Dr. Hardeep Dhindsa is an ophthalmologist, specializing in the medical and treatment of retinal conditions. He treats routine retinal cases as well as the most complex cases. He has a unique specialization in macular degeneration.

For more information on Dr. Hardeep Dhindsa you may visit Dr. Dhindsa's profile on PatientsChoice.org, or call the doctor's office directly at 775-737-9411, or visit the doctor's own website at http://hdretina.md/.

This press release was written by American Registry, LLC with approval by and/or contributions from Dr. Dhindsa, and was distributed by PR Newswire, a subsidiary of UBM.

Patients' Choice provides in depth information on doctors in your area who have been recognized and awarded for outstanding patient care and expertise. The Compassionate Doctor recognition is the honor roll of physicians who have received the highest bedside manner and overall ratings by their patients.

American Registry, LLC, recognizes excellence in top businesses and professionals. The Registry™ includes over 2 million significant business and professional recognitions. For more information, search The Registry at http://www.americanregistry.com. An exclusive recognition plaque designed to commemorate the doctor's honor is shown here.

Contact Information:
Dr. Hardeep Dhindsa
Phone: 775-737-9411
Email Address: hdmd@hdretina.md

SOURCE American Registry

RELATED LINKS
http://www.americanregistry.com

Source: www.prnewswire.com

InfuSystem Holdings Modifies Bylaws to Align with Corporate Governance Best Practices

MADISON HEIGHTS, Mich., May 30, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- InfuSystem Holdings, Inc. (NYSE MKT: INFU), the leading national provider of infusion pumps and related services for the healthcare industry, announced today it has implemented a number of substantive bylaw changes that enhance shareholder rights, as well as better align with ISS recommendations for corporate governance, including:

Reducing the percentage of shareholders required to call a special meeting of shareholders to 10 percent. It previously required a majority;
Shortening the notice requirement of shareholder director nominations and meeting proposals to 60-90 days from 90-120 days in advance of the anniversary of the prior year's meeting;
Allowing a majority of shareholders to act by written consent rather than the prior 100% requirement, providing a means for investors to consider and vote on matters that could arise between annual meetings; and
Changing to a majority, rather than plurality, voting requirement for election of director nominees.

The Board also voted to withdraw the Rights Agreement, dated as of November 12, 2010 (i.e., the "poison pill"), which will be effected shortly.

"The InfuSystem Board has affirmed its commitment to transparent communication, strong corporate governance practices, and the highest ethical standards consistent with our stewardship responsibilities," Executive Board Chairman Ryan Morris stated. "Boards, after all, serve at the pleasure of their shareholders. We firmly believe that acting in an owner-oriented fashion is the most responsible approach."

The Company also reported that its newly constituted Board of Directors, elected by shareholders, received more than 99% of the votes cast for election at this year's annual shareholders meeting on May 25, 2012.

"We appreciate this overwhelming vote of confidence from our shareholders," added Morris. "The duly elected Board, working in concert with the new management team here, have, in short order, established the foundation from which the Company intends to achieve operational and strategic growth, and increase shareholder value."

About InfuSystem Holdings, Inc.

InfuSystem Holdings, Inc. is the leading provider of infusion pumps and related services to hospitals, oncology practices and other alternate site healthcare providers. Headquartered in Madison Heights, Michigan, the Company delivers local, field-based customer support and also operates Centers of Excellence in Michigan, Kansas, California, and Ontario, Canada. The Company's stock is traded on the NYSE MKT under the symbol INFU.

Forward-Looking Statements

Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters discussed in this press release are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include general economic conditions, as well as other risks, detailed from time to time in the Company's publicly filed documents.

Additional information about InfuSystem Holdings, Inc. is available at www.infusystem.com.

INVESTOR CONTACT:
Jonathan P. Foster
Chief Financial Officer
Info@InfuSystem.com
800-962-9656

SOURCE InfuSystem Holdings, Inc.

GSMA Anuncia Finalistas y Ganador General de su Inaugural Mobile Health University Challenge (Primera Competición Universitaria de Iniciativas Móviles de Salud)

CIUDAD DEL CABO, Sudáfrica, 30 de mayo del 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- GSMA-mHealth Alliance Mobile Health Summit (Cumbre GSMA-mHealth Alliance de Iniciativas Móviles de Salud) – La GSMA, en colaboración con Qtel Group y Qualcomm Incorporated, dio a conocer hoy a los finalistas y al ganador general de su Inaugural Mobile Health University Challenge, una competición global que destaca iniciativas clave de servicios móviles para la salud dentro de la comunidad universitaria, y que se presenta esta semana en la GSMA-mHealth Alliance Mobile Health Summit del 2012 en Ciudad del Cabo, Sudáfrica.

Durante la competición se pidió a grupos de estudiantes universitarios de todo el mundo que desarrollaran un concepto de solución móvil de salud que solucionara una necesidad específica de cuidados de salud. Del grupo inicial de participantes, los 13 grupos más destacados fueron invitados a participar en las finales esta semana de la GSMA-mHealth Alliance Mobile Health Summit para presentar sus ideas a un panel de jueces compuesto por inversionistas y participantes destacados en los sectores de telefonía móvil y cuidados de la salud. De los 13 equipos, cuatro fueron escogidos para presentarse ante el jurado en una cuarta ronda, y de los cuatro finalistas se escogió un ganador general.

Los cuatro finalistas fueron:

Jordan University of Science and Technology (Jordania) – (Universidad de Ciencia y Tecnología de Jordania (Jordania) – Snore Detector (Detector de Ronquidos)
UC Berkeley (Estados Unidos) - LifeCheck
University of Oxford (UK) (Universidad de Oxford (Gran Bretaña) – BabeeMon
MIT (Estados Unidos) y la Universidad Federal de Rio Grande Do Norte (Brasil) - Sana AudioPulse

El ganador de la competición fue el equipo conjunto de MIT (Instituto Tecnológico de Massachussets) de Estados Unidos y la Universidad Federal de Rio Grande Do Norte, Brasil, por su Sana AudioPulse. Como equipo ganador, MIT y la Universidad Federal de Rio Grande Do Norte recibirán asesoramiento para el desarrollo futuro de su innovación y la oportunidad de presentarla en actividades clave del sector, como Connected Living Latin America Summit (Cumbre Latinoamericana Connected Living) de la GMSA, que se realizará en Brasil en junio del 2012.

"Se retó y alentó a los equipos a que usaran su originalidad y creatividad para crear una solución convincente y viable de servicios móviles de salud, y aplaudimos el entusiasmo y compromiso de todos los que participaron en nuestra primera competición", dijo Jeanine Vos, Directora Ejecutiva de mHealth en la GSMA. "Felicitamos al equipo ganador, MIT y la Universidad Federal de Rio Grande Do Norte, y les damos las gracias a todos los que participaron".

Para más información sobre las soluciones innovadoras presentadas por los cuatro equipos finalistas, por favor visite: www.gsma.com/connectedliving/gsma-mobile-health-university-challenge.

Acerca de la GSMA

La GSMA representa los intereses de operadores móviles de todo el mundo. Con más de 220 países, la GSMA une a casi 800 operadores móviles del mundo, así como más de 200 compañías del ecosistema móvil más amplio, como fabricantes de teléfonos, empresas de software, proveedores de equipos, compañías de Internet, así como organizaciones de medios y entretenimiento. La GSMA también produce eventos clave del sector, como el Mobile World Congress (Congreso Mundial de Móviles) y Mobile Asia Expo (Congreso Asiático de Móviles).

Para más información, por favor visite la página corporativa de GSMA en www.gsma.com o Mobile World Live, el portal en Internet del sector de comunicaciones móviles, en www.mobileworldlive.com.

FUENTE GSMA

Tuesday, May 29, 2012

10 Simple Tips for Glowing Skin

10 Simple Tips for Glowing Skin
This article discusses 10 simple tips that give you glowing skin. For example, you will learn about the importance of a healthy diet to your skin, how practicing yoga gives you better skin and so on.
Source: EzineArticles.com

Summit Business Media Publication Receives Honorable Mention at 2012 Health Care Journalism and Research Awards

WASHINGTON, May 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- National Underwriter Life & Health magazine, a Summit Business Media publication received honorable mention at the Eighteenth Annual Health Care Journalism and Research Awards ceremony on May 21^st in Washington, DC for Bill Coffin's story on Bill Mantlo, A Tragic Tale.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100316/SUMMITLOGO )

A Neal award-winning story, A Tragic Tale was featured in the November 2011 issue of National Underwriter Life & Health and depicts the tragic story of legendary comic book writer Bill Mantlo, who after a hit-and-run accident was thrown under the wheels of the healthcare system. According to NIHCM's website, "The judges praised the article for its 'attention to detail' and artfulness. They also called the story 'bold,' noted the risk the publisher took in criticizing a major advertiser, and said 'kudos to National Underwriter for taking this story on.'"

"This story serves as a powerful reminder that our daily work can make a difference in people's lives," said James E. Green, Vice President of Content for Summit Business Media. "Not only did the story result in a fundraising effort for Bill Mantlo, but it served as a catalyst for the reunion of several of Bill Mantlo's family members after years of little communication." Green continued, "The story also serves as confirmation that there is a very definite demand for quality, award-winning journalism among our audience. This honorable mention is a testament that our editorial teams have the talent, vision, knowledge and passion to give it to them."

Established in 1993, the NIHCM awards program recognizes the talented researchers and journalists who serve as catalysts for positive change by advancing and informing the health care policy debate. NIHCM's President and CEO, Nancy Chockley, explains, "NIHCM was founded with a mission to provoke new thinking and ideas. Through our awards, we recognize the tremendous contributions made by those in the fields of health care journalism and research who bring these new ideas to light and communicate them to the public." This year's competition brought in more than 340 entries.

"It is a great honor to be recognized by NIHCM for our work on Tragic Tale," said Bill Coffin, Editor-in-Chief for National Underwriter Life & Health. "This year's entries represent the best health care journalism being produced, so we were in good company. Winning this award underscores just how important and rewarding it is for all of us at Summit to make uncompromising content that challenges conventional wisdom, raises uncomfortable truths, and balances compelling storytelling with deep reporting."

In addition to receiving this prestigious honor, Coffin was awarded a check for $2,000 which he requested be made out to Bill Mantlo's trust fund. For more information on Bill Mantlo or the Bill Mantlo Trust Fund, Please visit http://www.lifehealthpro.com/2011/11/07/tragic-tale or contact Bill Coffin at bcoffin@sbmedia.com.

ABOUT NATIONAL UNDERWRITER LIFE & HEALTH

As the total news source for the life, health and financial services industry, National Underwriter Life & Health is uniquely positioned to provide agents and brokers with timely, insightful information. With the largest, most experienced team of editors in the industry, National Underwriter Life & Health is able to identify, analyze and comment on the latest trends and events for their significance to the market every business day. National Underwriter Life & Health helps life and health agents navigate the specialty markets and sort through critical developments whenever and wherever they are in their day. For more information, please visit LifeHealthPro.com.

ABOUT SUMMIT BUSINESS MEDIA

Summit Business Media is the leading B2B media and information company serving the insurance, financial, legal and investment advisory markets. Summit strives to be "The Next Generation of Business Information" for executives and practitioners by providing breaking news and analysis, in-depth practice management strategies, business-building techniques and actionable data. Summit services the information needs of its customers through numerous channels, including digital, print, and live events. Summit publishes 16 magazines and 150 reference titles, operates 20 websites and hosts a dozen conferences, including the world's largest mining investment conference held each year in South Africa. Summit's Data Division provides detailed information on millions of agents, advisors and benefits plans.

Summit employs more than 300 employees in ten offices across the United States. For more information, please visit SBMedia.com.

Available Topic Expert(s): For information on the listed expert(s), click appropriate link.
James Green
https://profnet.prnewswire.com/Subscriber/ExpertProfile.aspx?ei=94307

SOURCE Summit Business Media

Source: www.prnewswire.com

Gluten Free Cupcake Recipes-Where Can You Find Them?

May 12
29

Gluten free cupcake recipes-you might be wondering, what on earth are they and why should you bother in the first place? With that in mind, here are a few things that you should know about those that need to eat gluten free cupcakes. First and foremost, they do not have a gluten allergy. An allergy is quite a bit different from an intolerance. However, the intolerance causes its own problem. And it starts in the intestines.

First and foremost, you have a number of small, hairlike strtucutres in your nose, ears, and in your digestive system. The only difference is that the ones in your digestive system actually move and take the nutrients out of your food. Now, imagine if you couldn’t get anything at all out of your food. You would get sick and then die. This is what celiacs face when they don’t eat gluten-free meals. Which is where the cupcakes come in. There are a few books for those with celiac disease. However, there’s also another option for them as well and that’s the internet! There are hundreds of great recipes that they can find online!

This entry was posted on May 29, 2012 at 3:53 pm. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

Posted in general nutrition by casablanca

Source: www.nutritionandphysicalfitness.com

Nationwide Clarus Poll Reveals That A Large Majority Of U.S. Voters Think Legal System Increases Cost Of Health Care

NEW YORK, May 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- A new nationwide poll finds that heavy majorities of voters across party lines believe that the legal system is increasing health care costs. The survey also found that 66 percent of voters favor taking medical claims out of the current legal system and putting them into new health courts with expert judges. The poll was conducted for Common Good by Clarus Research Group.

Among the poll's key findings are the following:

A strong majority of voters––75 percent––believe "lawsuits and legal fees are a major cause of high medical insurance rates." Eighty-nine percent of Republicans, 76 percent of independents and 62 percent of Democrats agree on this.
Sixty-eight percent agree that "plenty of good doctors are leaving the practice of medicine because of the number of lawsuits and the cost of liability insurance." Seventy-eight percent of Republicans, 64 percent of Democrats and 61 percent of independents agree.
Two-thirds (67 percent) of voters say they believe that "fear of being sued is causing doctors to order unnecessary medical tests and procedures just to protect themselves from possible lawsuits." Seventy-five percent of Republicans, 67 percent of independents and 59 percent of Democrats concur.
Nearly two-thirds (66 percent) of voters support the idea of creating special health courts to decide medical claims. Only 25 percent say those claims should be decided as they are now. There is virtually no difference between Democrats and Republicans on this issue: 68 percent of Republicans, 67 percent of Democrats and 61 percent of independents support health courts.

"Americans know they're paying unnecessary health care costs because our system of medical justice is unreliable," said Philip K. Howard, Chair of Common Good. "It's time to end the waste – tens of billions annually – and create reliable health courts."

The nationwide survey was conducted April 25-26, 2012 by Clarus Research Group, a nonpartisan polling firm based in Washington, D.C. The survey's sample of 1,000 self-identified registered voters has a margin of error of +/- 3.1 percent. Interviewing was conducted through live telephone calls, using both landline and cell calling.

Common Good (www.commongood.org) is a nonpartisan government reform coalition dedicated to restoring common sense to America. The Chair of Common Good is Philip K. Howard, a lawyer and author of Life Without Lawyers and The Death of Common Sense.

SOURCE Common Good

Fondation d'entreprise Altran pour l'innovation: Lancement de son concours international « Innovation 2012 »

PARIS, May 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

En 2012, la Fondation d'entreprise Altran pour l'innovation lance un nouveau prix dans 8 pays. Les candidats pourront déposer leur dossier de juin à septembre 2012, afin de tenter de participer aux finales nationales qui se dérouleront jusqu'à fin novembre dans les 8 pays concernés : France, Espagne, Italie, Allemagne, Belgique, Royaume-Uni, Portugal et Suisse. Les lauréats nationaux seront départagés à l'occasion d'une grande finale internationale organisée en janvier 2013.

La Fondation d'entreprise Altran pour l'innovation, c'est un engagement de longue date humain et technologique pour promouvoir l'innovation au service de l'intérêt général. Créée en 1996, la Fondation a organisé 12 concours annuels internationaux. Elle met le savoir-faire du Groupe au service de tous en favorisant l'émergence et le développement de projets novateurs. Elle récompense le porteur d'une innovation scientifique ou technologique sur un thème d'intérêt général.

Avec le mécénat de compétences pour vocation, la Fondation Altran reçoit en 2006 l'Oscar du Mécénat d'entreprise de l'Admical, une association reconnue d'utilité publique dont la mission est de promouvoir le mécénat d'entreprise. Sont ainsi récompensés la pérennité de l'engagement de la Fondation, l'originalité de sa démarche, l'implication des salariés et les moyens mis en œuvre. En effet, précurseur dans la mise en place de ce type de dotation, la Fondation Altran fait profiter les lauréats des compétences internes du Groupe. Ceux-ci bénéficient, sur une période donnée, de l'accompagnement d'une équipe de consultants Altran, dans les domaines qui nécessitent une intervention : développement des technologies, design, industrialisation, propriété intellectuelle, gestion de projet, optimisation des coûts, recherche de partenaires, marketing, communication, etc. Ce patchwork de compétences ciblées évolue au rythme des besoins et s'adapte au cycle de vie du projet accompagné. Pour chaque besoin, un expert, pour que toute idée puisse devenir une innovation au service du progrès technologique.

« Notre engagement depuis maintenant 30 ans est de déjouer la complexité des projets de nos clients et de leur donner vie. Le challenge qu'Altran s'est donné est de promouvoir par les talents de ses consultants, la technologie et l'innovation au profit de l'intérêt général», souligne Philippe Salle, Président-directeur général du groupe Altran. Et d'ajouter, « Avoir un engagement citoyen en mobilisant et en fédérant les forces du groupe autour de projets innovants et créatifsoffre l'opportunité à nos consultants de développer des innovations de rupture et d'être des acteurs responsables dans tous les pays ».

« En délocalisant le concours dans 8 pays, nous favorisons l'internationalisation de notre mission et nous pouvons récompenser et aider davantage de projets innovants locaux qui œuvrent pour le bien commun. D'ailleurs, dans chaque pays, les entités du groupe Altran sont très motivées pour participer à l'aventure et il nous a semblé indispensable de mettre autant de soin à donner ou à rendre à la société ce qu'elle a donné », explique Christian Le Liepvre, Directeur de la Fondation.

Pour retrouver davantage d'informations sur la Fondation d'entreprise Altran pour l'innovation et les concours nationaux, rendez-vous sur http://www.altran-foundation.org

Focus sur le Prix Belge

Cette année, le thème du prix belge 2012 sera : "L'innovation technologique pour une mobilité plus intelligente".

Aujourd'hui, la mobilité et sa logistique sont essentielles au développement de l'économie. Mais les embouteillages affectent négativement notre qualité de vie et sont la cause principale de 30 à 100% du CO2 présent dans notre atmosphère. Si nous prenons l'an 2000 comme année de référence, en 2015 nous passerons un tiers de temps en plus sur la route, nous conduirons 20% plus lentement et nous produirons 13% de CO2 en plus.

Comment évoluera notre mobilité dans le futur ? Quels sont les challenges que nous allons devoir affronter ?

Pour résoudre les questions que posent nos déplacements, nous devons modifier notre comportement pour évoluer vers des formes originales de transports publics et trouver les moyens de rationaliser le flux de marchandises. Car nos nécessités de déplacement augmentent parallèlement à la croissance économique, nous devons stimuler le sens des responsabilités des voyageurs en ce qui concerne leurs choix de locomotion, tant au niveau individuel qu'au niveau collectif.

Notre objectif est d'identifier et de récompenser un projet d'innovation technologique qui traite l'une des problématiques suivantes :

• Atténuer les impacts de la mobilité

• Améliorer le transport public

• Accroître la productivité grâce à une mobilité plus intelligente

Les candidats ont la possibilité d'être en contact avec un consultant qui les aidera à répondre à l'appel aux candidatures.

Les inscriptions sont ouvertes du 7 juin au 8 octobre 2012 minuit.

Pour plus d'informations, retrouvez-nous sur http://be.altran-foundation.org

A propos d'Altran

Leader mondial du conseil en innovation et ingénierie avancée, Altran accompagne les entreprises dans leurs processus de création et développement de nouveaux produits et services. Le Groupe intervient depuis 30 ans auprès des plus grands acteurs des secteurs aérospatial, automobile, énergie, ferroviaire, finance, santé, télécommunications etc. Les offres du Groupe, déclinées depuis les phases du plan stratégique en matière de technologies nouvelles jusqu'aux phases d'industrialisation, assurent la capitalisation du savoir au sein de 4 domaines principaux : gestion du cycle de vie du produit, ingénierie mécanique, ingénierie systèmes et systèmes embarqués, et systèmes d'information.

Le groupe Altran a réalisé en 2011 un chiffre d'affaires de 1 420 M€. Il compte plus de 17 000 collaborateurs dans plus de 20 pays, dont 15 000 consultants, et 500 clients majeurs.

http://www.altran.com

Source: www.prnewswire.com

Monday, May 28, 2012

When Is A Life Too Long?; The Rising Cost Of Children’s Health Care

By Shefali S. Kulkarni

Every week, KHN reporter Shefali S. Kulkarni selects interesting reading from around the Web.

New York Magazine: A Life Worth Ending
I will tell you, what I feel most intensely when I sit by my mother’s bed is a crushing sense of guilt for keeping her alive. Who can accept such suffering—who can so conscientiously facilitate it? … In 1990, there were slightly more than 3 million Americans over the age of 85. Now there are almost 6 million. By 2050 there will be 19 million—approaching 5 percent of the population. … By promoting longevity and technologically inhibiting death, we have created a new biological status held by an ever-growing part of the nation, a no-exit state that persists longer and longer, one that is nearly as remote from life as death, but which, unlike death, requires vast service, indentured servitude really, and resources. … The longer you live the longer it will take to die (Michael Wolff, 5/20).

CNN: Cost Of Children’s Health Care Hitting Families Harder
[Heather Bixler] was leaving her New York apartment with her 4-year-old daughter and infant son, who was in a baby carriage. … The doorman, perhaps just to play around, picked up the stroller and held it almost vertical. Sean, the baby, fell out. His head bashed against the marble stair. … Two years ago, the seizures started. So did the never-ending medical expenses. The Bixler family is just one example of how a child’s chronic illness can strain a family emotionally and financially — and children represent the fastest growing health care spending group in America, according to a new report (Elizabeth Landau, 5/21).

Time Magazine: Why Some Medical Students Are Learning Their Cadavers’ Names
At Indiana University Northwest, an IU branch campus located in Gary, Ind., anatomy professor Ernest Talarico instructs his medical students to probe beyond the nerves and muscles of the bodies lying on their examination tables and think of the cadavers as their “first patients.” … His students also typically exchange letters with family members to glean more information about their patients’ medical histories, hobbies and interests. … While Talarico has won praise from many of the individuals involved in the program, he’s also raised concerns among critics who question the ethics of his teaching technique (Dina Fine Maron, 5/17).

PBS NewsHour: Baby’s Tumor Means Surgery Before Birth
Before Cami was born, a huge tumor began growing from her lower body and injured her hips and internal organs. To save her life, doctors had to operate on Cami en utero, half her body still inside a special incision in her mother Tami Dobrinski’s womb. … Cami’s tumor, called a sacrococcygeal teratoma, is just one example of an uncommon category of tumors and cancerous growths that can occur in unborn children — a teratoma like hers occurs in only one in 35,000 infants. … hospitals that don’t specialize in fetal care are not always familiar with all the possible treatments for rare conditions (Monty Tayloe, 5/18).

ABC News: Truvada Helps Couple Cope With Reality of Love and HIV
Nick Literski, 45, and Wes Tibbett, 39, have been together for six years, and their bond is strong. But when Tibbett was diagnosed with HIV in 2009, it was a major blow to the Seattle couple. Tibbett became terrified of giving the virus to Literski. … According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention, correct and consistent condom use greatly reduces the risk of HIV transmission. So does being in a monogamous, long-term relationship. But Tibbett and Literski still worried. Then both men started taking a daily pill, Truvada (Carrie Gainn, 5/21).

This entry was posted on Friday, May 25th, 2012 at 12:31 pm.

Source: feedproxy.google.com

Eisai obtiene la opinión favorable del CHMP para Fycompa® (perampanel) un tratamiento innovador contra la epilepsia

HATFIELD, Reino Unido, May 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

EISAI también recibe la opinión favorable del CHMP sobre el uso de Zonegran^®(zonisamida) en monoterapia

Eisai ha anunciado hoy que el Comité de Medicamentos de Uso Humano (CHMP) de la Agencia Europea del Medicamento ha emitido una opinión favorable para el uso de Fycompa^® (perampanel) como tratamiento coadyuvante de las crisis de inicio parcial, con generalización secundaria o sin ella, en pacientes epilépticos a partir de 12 años de edad.

Perampanel tiene un mecanismo de acción distinto al de los fármacos antiepilépticos (FAE) actuales. Como receptor del antagonista de AMPA, perampanel es el primero de una nueva clase de FAE.^[1] El neurotransmisor glutamato desempeña un papel importante en la mediación de las crisis y perampanel es el único agente que actúa de forma selectiva sobre la transmisión de las crisis bloqueando los receptores AMPA de glutamato postsináptico.^[2,3] Actualmente no hay ningún otro FAE que actúe de manera selectiva sobre los receptores AMPA.^[2^,³^,^4]Tras la recomendación de hoy, EISAI espera recibir la aprobación del nuevo tratamiento por parte de la UE en un plazo de tres meses.

Además de la recomendación del CHMP para el uso de perampanel como tratamiento coadyuvante, Eisai recibió una opinión favorable del CHMP para el uso de Zonegran^® (zonisamida) como monoterapia para el tratamiento de crisis parciales (con generalización secundaria o sin ella) en adultos con epilepsia recién diagnosticada. Zonisamida es un fármaco antiepiléptico (FAE) de segunda generación con numerosos mecanismos de acción y una estructura química, sin relación con ningún otro FAE^[5]. Tras la recomendación de hoy, EISAI espera recibir la aprobación de la UE para la nueva terapia en un plazo de tres meses.

El tratamiento satisfactorio de las crisis de inicio parcial (el tipo de epilepsia más común) sigue planteando retos. La incidencia de la epilepsia resistente al tratamiento sigue siendo elevada a pesar de los numerosos FAE nuevos y de que entre el 20% y el 40% de los pacientes con epilepsia de diagnóstico reciente se volverán resistentes al tratamiento.^[6]

Perampanel es una opción totalmente nueva para el tratamiento de la epilepsia, ya que es el primer FAE que presenta eficacia clínica contra las crisis de inicio parcial bloqueando de forma selectiva (no competitiva) la neurotransmisión excitatoria a través de los receptores AMPA.^[7,8]

"Mejorar el control de las crisis es una de las necesidades no cubiertas más apremiantes enlos pacientes epilépticos. Perampanel puede ofrecer a los pacientes un control de las crisis más equilibrado", señala el profesor Bernhard Steinhoff, profesor de neurología, director médico y ejecutivo del Centro de Epilepsia de Kehl-Kork, Alemania. "La opinión favorable que ha anunciado hoy el CHMP supone un importante paso para garantizar el acceso de los pacientes a este tratamiento innovador en Europa".

El CHMP basó su decisión en los datos clínicos de tres estudios pivotales de fase III, aleatorizados, controlados con placebo doble ciego y globales y que incluyeron 1.480pacientes epilépticos. Los tres estudios mostraron unos resultados consistentesen cuanto a la eficacia y la tolerabilidad de perampanel como terapia coadyuvante en pacientes con crisis de inicio parcial (con o sin generalización secundaria).^[8^,^9,10] Perampanel también ha demostrado un buen perfil de seguridad y ofrece la ventaja de una posología de una dosis al día, permitiendo disminuir el potencial número de comprimidos que puede tener que tomar una persona con epilepsia^[11].

El desarrollo de perampanel subraya la misión human health care (hhc), cuidado de la salud humana (hhc, por sus siglas en inglés) de Eisai, el compromiso de la empresa con el desarrollo de soluciones innovadoras para la prevención, tratamiento y cura de enfermedades que mejoren la salud y el bienestar de personas de todo el mundo. Eisai tiene un compromiso con el área terapéutica de la epilepsia y con el abordaje de las necesidades médicas no cubiertas de los pacientes epilépticos y sus familias. Eisai está orgullosa de comercializar actualmente más productos contra la epilepsia en Europa/EOMA que ninguna otra empresa.

Información para jefes de redacción

Acerca de perampanel

Eisai ha desarrollado perampanel para el tratamiento coadyuvante de crisis de inicio parcial, con generalización secundaria o sin ella, en pacientes epilépticos a partir de 12 años. Perampanel es un antagonista altamente selectivo y no competitivo de los receptores AMPA (ácido alfa-amino-3-hidroxi-5-metil-4-isoxazolepropiónico) del glutamato que ha mostrado reducción de las crisis en estudios de fase II y III. Los receptores de AMPA, muy presentes en casi todas las neuronas excitatorias, transmiten las señales generadas por el neurotransmisor excitatorio glutamato en el cerebro y las cuales están implicadas en las enfermedades del sistema nervioso central caracterizadas por un exceso de señales neuroexcitatorias, como la epilepsia, las enfermedades neurodegenerativas, trastornos del movimiento, dolor y trastornos psiquiátricos. En caso de recibir la aprobación, el perampanel será el primer fármaco de esta clase para el tratamiento adyuvante de las crisis epilépticas de inicio parcial con o sin generalización secundaria en pacientes epilépticos de 12 o más años de edad.

Acerca de los estudios de fase III de perampanel (estudios 306, 305 y 304)

El plan de desarrollo clínico de perampanel consistió en tres estudios globales de fase III: los estudios 306, 305 y 304, en los que participaron un total de 1480 pacientes. El objetivo principal del estudio 306 era identificar la dosis mínima eficaz e incluía cuatro grupos de tratamiento (placebo, 2 mg, 4 mg y 8 mg). Los estudios 304 y 305 incluían tres grupos (placebo, 8 mg y 12 mg) y estaban destinados a evaluar un rango posológico más amplio.

El diseño de los estudios era similar: estudios globales, aleatorizados, doble ciego, controlados por placebo, con aumento de la dosis y de grupos paralelos. Los criterios de valoración principales y secundarios eran los mismos en todos los estudios: cambio porcentual en la frecuencia de las crisis, índice de respuesta al tratamiento del 50%, reducción porcentual de las crisis parciales complejas y con generalización secundaria, y evaluación de la respuesta a la dosis. El criterio de valoración principal para EMA es el del índice de respuesta al tratamiento del 50% y para la FDA es la mediana del cambio porcentual en la frecuencia de las crisis.

Estudio 306: Alemania, Bulgaria, Portugal, Lituania, India y China

El estudio 306 mostró que perampanel era bien tolerado y eficaz para reducir la mediana de frecuencia de las crisis y aumentar los índices de respuesta al tratamiento. Los resultados mostraron específicamente lo siguiente:

Los índices de respuesta al tratamiento del 50% en comparación con el placebo en la población IDT (por intención de tratar) fueron: 2 mg = 20,6% (p=ns), 4 mg = 28,5% (p=0,0132) y 8 mg = 34,9% (p=0,0003) frente al 17,9% con placebo.
La mediana del cambio porcentual en la frecuencia de las crisis en la población IDT fue: 2 mg = -13,6% (p=0,420), 4 mg = -23,3% (p=0,0026), 8 mg = -30,8% (p<0,0001) frente al -10,7% con placebo.
Los acontecimientos adversos derivados del tratamiento más frecuentes fueron mareos, dolor de cabeza y somnolencia.

Estudio 305: Europa, EE.

UU., Sudáfrica, Israel, Rusia, India, Australia

Se observó una diferencia significativa en la mediana de cambio porcentual en la frecuencia de las crisis con perampanel 8

mg y 12

mg. Concretamente, los resultados preliminares del estudio 305 mostraron lo siguiente:

Los índices de respuesta al tratamiento del 50% en comparación con el placebo en la población IDT fueron: 8 mg = 33,3% (p=0,0008), 12 mg = 33,9% (p=0,0006) frente al 14,7% con placebo.
La mediana del cambio porcentual en la frecuencia de las crisis en la población IDT fue: 8 mg = -30,5% (p=0,0008), 12 mg = -17,6% (p=0,0105) frente al -9,7% con placebo.
Los acontecimientos adversos comunicados con mayor frecuencia fueron mareos, fatiga, dolor de cabeza y somnolencia.

Estudio 304: EE.

UU., Canadá, Sudamérica

El estudio 304 mostró resultados coherentes en cuanto a la eficacia y la tolerabilidad de perampanel administrado como tratamiento a pacientes con crisis de inicio parcial. Concretamente:

Los índices de respuesta al tratamiento del 50% en comparación con el placebo en la población IDT fueron: 8 mg = 37,6% (p=0,0760), 12 mg = 36,1% (0,0914) frente al 26,4% con placebo.
La mediana del cambio porcentual en la frecuencia de las crisis en la población IDT fue: 8 mg = -26,3% (0,0261), 12 mg = -34,5% (p=0,0158) frente al -21,0% con placebo.
Los efectos secundarios más comunes fueron mareos, somnolencia, irritabilidad, dolor de cabeza, caídas y ataxia.

Acerca de la epilepsia

La epilepsia es uno de los trastornos neurológicos más frecuentes en el mundo afectando aproximadamente a 8 de cada 1.000 personas en Europa^[12] Se calcula que seis millones de personas en Europa^[13]y alrededor de 50 millones de personas en todo el mundo viven con epilepsia^[13^]. La epilepsia se caracteriza por la activación anormal de impulsos desde las células nerviosas del cerebro que causan las crisis. Según el tipo, las crisis pueden limitarse a una parte del cerebro (parciales) o pueden ser generalizadas cuando le afectan en su totalidad.

Los pacientes también pueden experimentar sensaciones anormales, alteraciones del comportamiento o alteraciones de la consciencia. La epilepsia es un trastorno que tiene muchas causas posibles. Con frecuencia estas causas son desconocidas. Sin embargo, cualquier factor que altere la actividad normal de las neuronas, desde una enfermedad hasta daños cerebrales o tumores, puede producir una crisis.

Acerca de Eisai Europa en relación con la epilepsia

Eisai tiene un compromiso con el desarrollo y comercialización de nuevos tratamientos muy beneficiosos para mejorar las vidas de las personas que padecen epilepsia. El desarrollo de fármacos antiepilépticos (FAE) es una de las principales áreas estratégicas de Eisai en el mercado europeo.

En Europa, Eisai comercializa actualmente tres medicamentos:

Zonegran^® (zonisamida) como tratamiento adyuvante en pacientes adultos con crisis de inicio parcial, con o sin generalización secundaria.
Zebinix^® (acetato de eslicarbazepina) como tratamiento adyuvante en pacientes adultos con crisis de inicio parcial, con o sin generalización secundaria.
Inovelon^® (rufinamida) para el tratamiento adyuvante en pacientes de 4 y más años de crisis asociadas con el síndrome de Lennox-Gastaut.

Acerca de Eisai

Eisai es una de las empresas farmacéuticas basadas en la I+D líderes a nivel mundial y ha definido su misión corporativa como "pensar primero en los pacientes y en sus familias y aumentar los beneficios que la atención sanitaria proporciona", lo que llamamos cuidado de la salud humana o Human Health Care (hhc, por sus siglas en inglés). Eisai ha ampliado recientemente sus instalaciones en Hatfield, Reino Unido, que ahora ofrecen soporte al negocio en expansión de la empresa en Europa, Oriente Medio y África (EOMA).

Eisai concentra sus actividades de I+D en tres áreas fundamentales:

Área de Neurociencias: enfermedad de Alzheimer, esclerosis múltiple, dolor neuropático, epilepsia, depresión, etc.
Área de Oncología: tratamientos contra el cáncer; regresión tumoral, supresión tumoral, anticuerpos, etc. y tratamientos de soporte contra el cáncer; alivio del dolor, náuseas, etc.
Reacción vascular/inmunológica e incluye: síndrome coronario agudo, enfermedad aterotrombótica, sepsis, artritis reumatoide, psoriasis, enfermedad de Crohn, etc.

Con filiales en los Estados Unidos, Asia, Europa y Japón, Eisai tiene más de 11.000 empleados en todo el mundo. En Europa, Eisai tiene filiales comerciales en más de 20 paises que incluyen el Reino Unido, Francia, Alemania, Italia, España, Suiza, Suecia, Irlanda, Austria, Dinamarca, Finlandia, Noruega, Portugal, Islandia, República Checa, Eslovaquia, Países Bajos y Bélgica.

Si desea más información visite nuestro sitio web http://www.eisai.com

Bibliografía

Meldrum BS, Rogawski MA. Molecular targets for antiepileptic drug development. Neurotherapeutics 2007;4:18-61.
Rogawski MA, Löscher W. The neurobiology of antiepileptic drugs. Nat Rev Neurosci 2004;5:553-564
Brodie MJ. Antiepileptic drug therapy: the story so far. Seizure 2010; 19: 650-655.
Rogawski MA. Revisiting AMPA receptors as an antiepileptic drug target. Epilepsy Currents 2011;11:56-63
Eisai Ltd. (2005). Zonegran Summary of Product Characteristics
French JA. Refractory Epilepsy; Clinical Overview. Epilepsia 2007: 48 (Suppl1) 3 - 7
Hanada T, Hashizume Y, Tokuhara N, Takenaka O, Kohmura N, Ogasawara A, Hatakeyama S, Ohgoh M, Ueno M, Nishizawa Y. Perampanel: a novel, orally active, noncompetitive AMPA-receptor antagonist that reduces seizure activity in rodent models of epilepsy. Epilepsia. 2011 Jul;52(7):1331-40.
Krauss GM. Serratosa JM, Villanueva V et al. Randomized Phase III study 306: adjunctive perampanel for refractory partial-onset seizures. Neurology 2012: Please visit: http://www.neurology.org/.
Perampanel Reduces Treatment-Resistant, Partial-Onset Seizures. Neurology Reviews 2011;19(6):1,26-29.
French J et al. Use of perampanel, a selective, non-competitive AMPA receptor antagonist, as adjunctive therapy in patients with refractory partial-onset seizures: results of a global phase III study. Presented at 29th International Epilepsy Congress, 28th August until 1st September, 2011, Rome. Abstract# 122/ Ref 020.
Cramer JA, Mattson RH, Prevey ML, Scheyer RD, Ouellette VL. How often is medication taken as prescribed? A novel assessment technique. JAMA. 1989 Jun 9;261(22):3273-7.
Pugliatti M et al. Estimating the cost of epilepsy in Europe: A review with economic modeling. Epilepsia 2007: 48(12) 2224 - 2233.
Epilepsy in the WHO European Region: Fostering Epilepsy Care in Europe. http://www.ibe-epilepsy.org/downloads/EURO%20Report%20160510.pdf [Accessed 10 April 2012].

Source: www.prnewswire.com

Essential Fatty Acids: The Perfect Skin Therapy For Dandruff, Psoriasis and Eczema

Essential Fatty Acids: The Perfect Skin Therapy For Dandruff, Psoriasis and Eczema
Essential fatty acids are the building blocks for all other fats needed in the body. Low dietary amounts of these anti-inflammatory fats in the diet are linked to common skin conditions.
Source: EzineArticles.com

Alcohol Flavoring Boosts Virgin Cocktails

Alcohol Flavors -No Alcohol, No Carbs For Dieters, Diabetics And Designated Drivers New Product Introduction

Yum Drops Flavoring just announced the addition of four new natural alcohol flavors. These new natural flavor concentrates deliver the entire alcohol flavoring of your popular coffee cordials and liqueurs with none of the alcohol or carbs.

It’s a known fact, when it comes to dieting, diabetes, designated drivers as well as health conscious consumers, alcoholic beverages and this group of consumers, just don’t mix. This group of people, typically avoids alcohol or the calories from alcoholic beverages, and is looking for alternatives to virgin cocktails. What they need and want are the flavor of an alcoholic beverage with no alcohol, no carbs and no calories.

When we talk about virgin cocktails, this is what we really mean when we use the descriptor non alcoholic beverages. A non-alcoholic cocktail is a beverage which does not include any alcohol. Non-alcoholic blended drinks are: punches, virgin cocktails, or mocktails, which are frequently consumed by children, dieters, diabetics and designated drivers. It also includes anyone preferring to enjoy alcohol flavoring with no alcohol.

Here are some virgin cocktails when you search for non-alcohol cocktails. Examples out there are: near beers, Shirley Temples, Virgin Mary, and virgin-style pia coladas. This class of drinks without alcohol typically do not have traces of alcohol such as pops, juices, and sparkling ciders. They also cover beverages that have gone through an alcohol removal process, like non-alcoholic beers and alcohol free wines. Beer without alcohol actually contains a small amount of alcohol (the exact percentage varies by country), so purchasers of non-alcoholic beer in some US states must be at least 21.

The company introduced a full line of natural flavor concentrates with 0 carbs and 0 calories late last summer. Their natural flavor drops for water, coffee, teas, dairy and dessert products contain just a hint of natural stevia to enhance the flavor and not sweeten it.

Their new line of natural alcohol flavorings has had tremendous success, since being introduced earlier this month. These new flavors have been widely accepted with dieticians and nutritionists for their weight loss and diabetic customers alike. The new natural alcohol flavor concentrates contain no stevia and 0 carbs, 0 calories, 0 fats. That’s a big deal when people are counting the carbs that alcohol beverages deliver. These new products include four popular flavors: amaretto, Irish Creme, dark rum and coffee liqueur. The products are doing so well, tequila, bourbon and brandy are already in development stages.

Now, dieters, diabetics and designated drivers can order a virgin mojito or Coke and add natural dark rum flavoring to blend their own cocktail flavors. These flavor concentrates won’t get people intoxicated, but they will swear their cocktails smell and taste just like the real thing. Today more then ever, consumers are looking for natural flavorings. Yum Drops natural flavor concentrates are all about flavoring.

Check out their web to check out their full line of natural flavor concentrates available, as well as their new line of natural alcohol flavorings.

Find out more about alcohol flavoring, then visit their site to find the best natural flavor flavoring concentrates for all your food & beverage needs.

Source: www.thehealthdirectoryonline.com

American Academy of Physician Assistants to Honor Exemplary Healthcare Providers at IMPACT 2012 Conference

Honorees Recognized with PAragon Awards for Distinguished Service and Commitment to PA Profession

ALEXANDRIA, Va., May 28, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today, the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA) announced the distinguished recipients of the 2012 PAragon Awards which recognize PAs and collaborating healthcare providers for excellence in patient service, community outreach and overall advancement of the PA profession both domestically and around the world. The PAragon Awards will be presented on May 28 at AAPA's Annual PA Conference which will be held in Toronto, Ontario.

"AAPA is proud to recognize these extraordinary healthcare professionals for their commitment to furthering our profession's commitment to improving the quality, accessibility and cost-effectiveness of patient-centered healthcare," said AAPA President Robert Wooten, PA-C. "Their work and care to patients and the larger community serve as inspirational models for current and future PAs who will lead our profession into the future." It is my honor and privilege to present the 2012 PAragon Awards to such exceptional leaders in our profession."

The 2012 PAragon Award recipients include the following:

Federal Service PA of the Year Award: Over the course of her 20-year career, U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Pamela Lucas, PA-C, of Alexandria, Va., has improved disaster and humanitarian response worldwide and streamlined the standards for medical care in the Air Force.
Humanitarian PA of the Year Award: Jack Gardner, PA-C, of Portsmouth, N.H., left a successful business career 12 years ago to become a physician assistant, and has helped thousands of lives in his pursuit to provide medical care to those in need.
Outstanding PA of the Year Award: Cynthia Lord, MHS, PA-C, of Cheshire, Conn., is driven by her passion for serving patients with the greatest need for care. As program director and professor at Quinnipiac University's PA Program, Lord transfers her empathy for patients and her love of serving others to the next generation of PAs.
Physician-PA Partnership Award: Dwight Deter, PA-C, and Wilbur J. Strader, MD, of El Paso, Texas, founded one of the most highly-regarded diabetes and endocrine practices in the Southwest to help care for the growing number of El Paso residents struggling with diabetes and other chronic endocrine disorders.
PA Service to the Underserved Award: Thousands of women who were homeless or survivors of domestic abuse and their children could not afford much-needed health care. Inspired to take action, Vicki Chan-Padgett, PA-C, of Las Vegas, Nev., opened a first-of-its-kind clinic to promote free, high-quality health care to Las Vegas women and children who need it most.
Eugene A. Stead, Jr. Award of Achievement: Ruth Ballweg, PA-C, of Seattle, Wash., will receive the profession's highest honor for her commitment to education, advancing the PA profession, her dedication to veterans and creating paths to the PA profession for military servicemen and women.
Publishing Awards: Monica Furman, PA-C, first place; Danielle Kruger, PA-C, second place; Linda Sekhon, DHSc, PA-C, third place.

For video of these outstanding PAragon Award recipients, please visit http://www.youtube.com/aapavideo

About the American Academy of Physician Assistants
Founded in 1968, the American Academy of Physician Assistants is the national professional society for physician assistants. It represents a profession of more than 84,000 certified PAs across all medical and surgical specialties in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, the majority of the U.S. territories and within the uniformed services. AAPA advocates and educates on behalf of the profession and the patients PAs serve. It works to ensure the professional growth, personal excellence and recognition of physician assistants and to enhance their ability to improve the quality, accessibility and cost-effectiveness of patient-centered healthcare. Visit http://www.aapa.org to learn more.

SOURCE American Academy of Physician Assistants

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