Thursday, February 28, 2013

How to do a glitter Ombré manicure (a.k.a. the lazy girl’s ideal nail art!)

How to do a glitter Ombré manicure (a.k.a. the lazy girl’s ideal nail art!)
Despite what Michelle thinks about the hair side of things, the Ombré beauty trend is here to stay. Well, at least until something better, cooler and fresher kicks it out of first place. But [...]

Despite what Michelle thinks about the hair side of things, the Ombré beauty trend is here to stay. Well, at least until something better, cooler and fresher kicks it out of first place. But for now, we’re seeing Ombré not just in hair but also lipstick application (check out the two-toned lip) and yes, nails!

So it was only a matter of time before I caved and did an Ombré nail art how-to. What follows is just one of the many ways to interpret the trend—but since I’m permanently on a glitter kick, it’s my personal favourite.

What you need

  • Base and top coats
  • A base colour (I used Avon Nailwear Pro+ Nail Enamel in Inky Blue)
  • Metallic nail polish (I used Quo by Orly Nail Polish in Fairy Tale)
  • Chunky glitter nail polish (I used Avon Glitter Nail Enamel in Sparkling Gold)

Step one

Apply a base coat as per usual (I use SpaRitual’s Laquer Lock ColorStay Basecoat). Then, paint your nails in the base colour of your choosing.

Glitter Ombre mani - step 1

This is Avon Nailwear Pro+ Nail Enamel in Inky Blue. If you want a more subtle Ombré, use a base colour that is similar to the metallic and glitter shades you picked out. For example: pink with gold, purple with blue, white with silver… you get the idea.

Step two

Make sure that your metallic polish is only on the end of your brush.

Glitter Ombre mani - step 2a

This is because when you are applying the metallic colour to your nails, you almost want to run out of polish near the end of each swipe.

Now apply the metallic shade by starting at the cuticle and stopping halfway down the nail.

Glitter Ombre mani - step 2b

Yes, I know this doesn’t look pretty. It doesn’t have to… yet. The reality of a nail art tutorial is that not every step is so “camera-ready.” So don’t be discouraged, just go on to the next step.

Step three

Apply the chunky glitter by starting at the cuticle and stopping two-thirds of the way down the nail.

Glitter Ombre mani - step 3

In other words, the tips of your nails should only have the original base colour on them, as you can see in the image above.

Step four

Apply a top coat to really make the metallic and glitter pop.

Right now, I’m really loving Jin Soon Choi’s JINsoon Top Gloss Quick Dry Top Coat. It does a great job at evening out any bumps or clumps that come from several layers of polish.

Glitter Ombre mani - step 4

And… you’re done! This is like the lazy woman’s perfect manicure. There are SO many polishes out there that require three coats to make the colour opaque. With this nail art, you only have to do one full coat of polish.

I hope you nail it!

Have you tried Ombré on your nails yet?
Where else in your beauty regimen have you incorporated the Ombré trend?
What kind of nail art do you want to see next?


Source: beautyeditor.ca

CeQur Announces Positive Results from Study Evaluating Simple Insulin Delivery Device Among People with Type 2 Diabetes

CeQur Announces Positive Results from Study Evaluating Simple Insulin Delivery Device Among People with Type 2 Diabetes

HORW, Switzerland, Feb. 28, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- CeQur SA, a company focused on the development and commercialization of simple insulin delivery devices, announced that initial data from a study of the company's PaQ® Insulin Delivery Device were presented today at the 6th International Conference on Advanced Technologies & Treatments for Diabetes (ATTD) in Paris, France. The data suggest that PaQ is a safe, highly satisfying alternative to multiple daily insulin injections (MDI) for people with type 2 diabetes – many of whom need new tools to help them achieve better glycemic control.

"This study demonstrated that simple infusion with a device such as PaQ is a valid approach for people with type 2 diabetes who are dependent on multiple daily insulin injections," said Dr. Julia Mader of the Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Medical University of Graz, who presented the data. "This is very exciting because it means we will have a new tool to help our patients with type 2 diabetes overcome some of the obstacles that currently prevent them from effectively managing their disease."

Data suggest that approximately 50 percent of insulin-requiring individuals do not achieve appropriate glycemic control.1 Poor glycemic control is associated with additional health-care costs and high risk of disabling complications, including diabetic retinopathy, chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease.2 Half of all patients requiring MDIs report that they intentionally skip doses because they consider the injections embarrassing, inconvenient, painful, and/or disruptive to their daily activities.3

PaQ is a discreet, wearable device that provides three days of consistent, basal insulin delivery along with easy, on-demand bolus insulin. The small device comprises a disposable insulin infuser reservoir attached to a reusable insulin monitor.

The 20-patient PaQ study evaluated the ability of people with type 2 diabetes who were on a stable MDI regimen to use PaQ in replacing the daily insulin injections required to control their blood sugar. Study endpoints included glycemic control, patient satisfaction and safety. The study was led by Professor Thomas Pieber , head of the Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, at the University Hospital in Graz, Austria.

Data presented for the first time today demonstrate that PaQ safely and effectively delivered patients' insulin requirements with a high level of patient satisfaction and acceptance. No severe hypoglycemic events occurred during the study baseline period or while participants were on PaQ. All patients were able to correctly assemble and use PaQ with just one hour of training.

"PaQ was logically designed to address common, specific treatment challenges faced by people with type 2 diabetes," said Professor Pieber. "This study provides encouraging initial evidence that simple devices such as PaQ may help us reduce the incidence and impact of poor glycemic control among these individuals."

The Need for Simple Insulin Infusion
There are currently more than 11 million people in the United States and European Union who are taking insulin injections to manage their type 2 diabetes.  Studies suggest that simple continuous, subcutaneous insulin-infusion (CSII) regimens may improve glycemic control and quality of life among these individuals. However, current CSII has not been widely used in T2D to date due to its complexity and cost.

"Our mission is to provide people with type 2 diabetes a simple insulin therapy that can free them from the burden of multiple daily injections so that they can more comfortably and consistently maintain target glycemic values," said James Peterson , founder and CEO, CeQur. "We're extremely pleased that this study provides evidence that PaQ can provide this freedom."

About CeQur SA
CeQur® is dedicated to developing and commercializing advanced insulin delivery devices that make it easier for people living with type 2 diabetes to adhere to therapy and stay in control of their disease. The company is headquartered in Horw, Switzerland, with operations in Nordborg, Denmark and Marlborough, Massachusetts.

CeQur was established in January 2008.  The company's lead product candidate is the PaQ Insulin Delivery Device, a novel, wearable device that provides freedom from multiple daily injections.  More information can be found at www.cequrcorp.com.  


 

1 Hoerger, T et. al. Is Glycemic Control Improving in U.S. Adults? Diabetes Care 2008, 31:81-86

2 Mohammed, AK et. al. Characteristics Associated with Poor Glycemic Control Among Adults with Self-Reported Diagnosed Diabetes – National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, United States, 2007-2010. Mor. Mort. Weekly Rprt. 2012; 61:32-37

3  Peyrot M, Rubin RR, Kruger DF, Travis LB. Correlates of insulin injection omission. Diabetes Care 2010;33:240-5

SOURCE CeQur SA

RELATED LINKS
http://www.cequrcorp.com


Source: www.prnewswire.com

Wednesday, February 27, 2013

Slipping and Sliding in Ice and Snow Leads to Falls and Fractures

Slipping and Sliding in Ice and Snow Leads to Falls and Fractures

Northwestern Medicine orthopaedic expert offers tips for avoiding winter injuries

CHICAGO, Feb. 27, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A winter storm hitting the Chicago area this week is expected to bring significant snow, along with freezing rain and sleet. Northwestern Medicine® orthopaedic experts warn that slippery, snowy conditions can pose serious health and safety threats and often lead to an increase in fractures, sprains and other orthopaedic injuries.

"We see a definite an increase in injuries, including fractures, which are breaks in the bone,  resulting from slips and falls or accidents involving motor vehicles during harsh weather conditions," said Michael D. Stover, MD, an orthopaedic surgeon at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and professor of orthopaedic surgery at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. "We often see patients with fractures of the wrist and shoulder or hip from people trying to break their falls with outstretched hands. Broken ankles are also one of the most common fracture types and can be caused by slipping and twisting the ankle while navigating slippery surfaces."

According to Stover, the following simple steps can reduce the risk of a fall and injury this winter:

  • Check the weather – Proper clothes and footwear will make it easier to navigate wintery conditions. Wear winter boots with good traction and avoid shoes with smooth, slippery bottoms. 
  • Take your time – When the weather is adverse, take extra time to get between destinations. Falls increase when people are rushing, so avoid running for buses, or trying to beat traffic when crossing a street.
  • Brace yourself – When entering and exiting a vehicle, support yourself before standing and use the car door for stability.
  • Go hands free –Your arms help you balance, so avoid heavy purses, coffee, or holding your phone out in front of you while walking on icy or snow-covered surfaces.
  • Walk cautiously – Be aware of surroundings and recognize if a surface is slippery or uneven.  Take small, cautious steps and stay low to the ground walking with curled toes and a flat foot.

While not every fall can be avoided, Stover says there is a right way and wrong way to fall. "On average, you have less than two seconds from the moment you lose your balance to the moment you hit the ground," explained Stover. "Knowing how to fall properly can save you from pain and injury."

When a fall is imminent, staying calm and avoiding panic is important because injury is more likely to occur when muscles are tense. If falling backwards, try to fall into a sitting position which is the safest way to land. Protecting the head and skull should always be a priority if you fall, but be careful to not try to break a fall with your hands.

"Seek medical attention if pain and swelling from a fall doesn't go away within a day to two days, or if you are unable to bear weight. If you fall and hit your head, pay attention for concussion symptoms and see a doctor if you experience dizziness, continued pain or headaches," said Stover.

Northwestern Medicine is the shared vision that joins Northwestern Memorial HealthCare and Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in a collaborative effort to transform medicine through quality healthcare, academic excellence and scientific discovery. 

To find a physician at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, call 312-926-0779 or visit www.nmh.org

About Northwestern Memorial HealthCare
Northwestern Memorial HealthCare is the parent corporation of Chicago's Northwestern Memorial Hospital, an 894-bed academic medical center hospital and Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital, a 201-bed community hospital located in Lake Forest, Illinois. 

About Northwestern Memorial Hospital
Northwestern Memorial is one of the country's premier academic medical center hospitals and is the primary teaching hospital of the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.  Along with its Prentice Women's Hospital and Stone Institute of Psychiatry, the hospital has 1,705 affiliated physicians and 6,769 employees.  Northwestern Memorial is recognized for providing exemplary patient care and state-of-the art advancements in the areas of cardiovascular care; women's health; oncology; neurology and neurosurgery; solid organ and soft tissue transplants and orthopaedics.

Northwestern Memorial has nursing Magnet Status, the nation's highest recognition for patient care and nursing excellence.  And, Northwestern Memorial ranks 12th in the nation in the U.S. News & World Report 2012 Honor Roll of "America's Best Hospitals". The hospital is ranked in 12 of 16 clinical specialties rated by U.S. News and is No. 1 in Illinois and Chicago in U.S. News' 2012 state and metro rankings, respectively. For 12 years running, Northwestern Memorial has been rated among the "100 Best Companies for Working Mothers" guide by Working Mother magazine. The hospital is a recipient of the prestigious National Quality Health Care Award and has been chosen by Chicagoans as the Consumer Choice according to the National Research Corporation's annual survey for 13 years. 

SOURCE Northwestern Memorial Hospital

RELATED LINKS
http://www.nmh.org


Source: www.prnewswire.com

Things To Expect From Laser Hair Removal Treatment

Having unwanted hair in your chest, leg, and back can be a real inconvenience, especially if it hinders you from wearing your favorite dress. It's a good thing there are several hair removal procedures available today that allows you to get rid of these unwanted hair growths. Laser hair removal, in particular, is perhaps the most well-known among them. Read more

Tuesday, February 26, 2013

Finding Out All You Can About Migraines

Finding Out All You Can About Migraines

If you are newly diagnosed with migraines, know someone who suffers from them or are doing research about the topic finding out all you can about migraines is important to you. When you suffer from them, finding all you can about them, will help you to find out answers you may have about how to relieve the pain and suffering you are going through.

If you know someone who is suffering from migraines, it is important for you to understand what they are going through so information about migraines is also important to you. Individuals researching for school papers, or as a topic of interest to them are also interested in finding out as much as possible in order to reach their goal concerning knowledge about migraines. This article is one-stepping stone in your search for information about migraines.

Basic information about what migraines are:

A headache known as a migraine is a form of what is called a “vascular headache”. They are caused by enlargement of blood vessels and also the release of chemicals from nerve fibers. Someone who suffers from migraines will refer to the event as a “migraine attack” because that accurately describes how they feel as if they are being physically attacked, or assaulted by many environmental and physical elements.

What causes the symptoms of a migraine?

These migraine attacks will activate the sympathetic nervous system in the individual’s body and the result will be the symptoms of the migraine such as pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. As the attack progresses the individual will notice reactions such as pallor of the skin, cold hands and feet, sensitivity to sound and blurry vision.

Who is affected by migraines?

In America approximately 28 million individuals are affected by migraines. Statistically females tend to suffer from them more often than males. Sufferers miss work or school as a result of the migraines and typically the majority of migraines go under treated and also under diagnosed with as few as 50% of sufferers being diagnosed and treated by a medical professional.

Describing the pain:

Migraines are a chronic condition, which means the person who is suffering will continue to do so long-term. There are recurrent migraine attacks but not all attacks include a headache. When a headache does occur it is usually described as being throbbing, or pounding in nature. It typically involves only one temple and may be located in the forehead, around the eye area or at the back of the head.

As many as one-third of all migraine suffers, may experience pain on both sides of the head instead of just one side. Those who experience the pain on only one side will usually notice that they will feel pain on the opposite side the next time they have a migraine.

Warning Signs of an approaching migraine attack:

Many patients who have been diagnosed with migraines report noticing “warning signs” before experiencing a migraine attack. Warning signs vary, but may include cravings for sweet or salty foods, depression, euphoria, fatigue, irritability, yawning and sleepiness. An aura is experienced by approximately 20% of those who report having migraines.

Auras are described as being flashing, brightly colored lights that start in the center of vision and progress outward. Others have auras that are more like a black hole in their field of vision. Elderly individuals may experience only the aura and not the headache while others may have more of an auditory aura, hallucinations or experience unusual tastes and smells before the migraine.

Well, there you have it a brief start to your road for information regarding migraines. To continue your search look for medical Websites that may touch on the topic, or gather books from your local library. Your doctor is an excellent resource for information regarding migraines.

We Recommend:

MiGone Plus is a natural, safe and effective liquid herbal formula, formulated by a Clinical Psychologist as a concentrated medicinal extract of three herbs especially chosen to quickly and effectively address the principle underlying causes of chronic headaches and migraines.

MiGone Plus works effectively to prevent migraines and chronic headaches, including cluster headaches; reduce muscle tension and spasms; stop tension headaches before they start; relieve the symptoms of arthritis; improve liver functioning and the elimination of toxins; relax and reduce anxiety and tension and prevent menstrual cramps.

Free PDF Health Ebook...

Natural Help for Diverticulitis

    Simply right click the ebook title above, and choose Save As to save to your desktop!  You can find more FREE Natural Health, Wellness and Pet Ebooks at Remedies4.com!

About Dee Braun

Dee is an Adv. Certified Aromatherapist, Reiki Master, Adv. Color/Crystal Therapist, Herbalist, Dr. of Reflexology and single mom who is dedicated to helping others any way she can. One way she chooses to help is by offering information on the benefits and uses of natural health and healing methods for the well-being of both people and pets. Dee also teaches Aromatherapy, Reflexology and Color/Crystal Therapy at the Alternative Healing Academy

Source: www.natural-holistic-health.com

The ALS Association Kicks Off 2013 Walk to Defeat ALS® Season

The ALS Association Kicks Off 2013 Walk to Defeat ALS® Season

170 local events scheduled in communities nationwide to fight Lou Gehrig 's Disease

WASHINGTON, Feb. 26, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The ALS Association 2013 Walk to Defeat ALS® season begins this week and runs through November with 170 local events in communities across the nation. These events provide a wonderful opportunity to raise awareness about Lou Gehrig 's Disease and to support the mission of The ALS Association, the only national non-profit organization fighting amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) on every front through research, education and public policy.  To participate in a Walk to Defeat ALS event in your area, please visit walktodefeatals.org.

ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. Eventually, people with ALS lose the ability to initiate and control muscle movement, which often leads to total paralysis and death within two to five years of diagnosis. For unknown reasons, veterans are twice as likely to develop ALS as the general population. There is no cure, and only one drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) modestly extends survival.

The Association's nationwide signature event brings hope to those living with ALS and an opportunity for families and friends to spend an uplifting day with others in the ALS community. People participate in these walks for many reasons: in honor or in memory of a loved one, to show their support for the cause or as a member of a corporate team. This year, The ALS Association is proud to count Pride Mobility Products Corporation, Quantum Rehab and Phi Delta Theta Fraternity among our Premier National Teams for 2013.

In 2012, approximately 121,000 people participated in walks to support The ALS Association—raising $21.7 million in support of care services, ALS research and public policy efforts at the federal, state and local levels.

"Sadly, people often feel powerless when a friend or family member is diagnosed with ALS. Walking to defeat this devastating disease provides a sense of empowerment and an actionable way to help," said ALS Association President and CEO Jane H. Gilbert

The ALS Association produced a 30-second public service announcement (PSA), which can be viewed at http://www.youtube.com/user/thealsassociation?feature=mhee.  For television stations interested in airing the PSA, please contact your local ALS Association chapter. A list of chapters is located here: http://www.alsa.org/community/services.html?service_type=chapters.

About The ALS Association

The ALS Association is the only national non-profit organization fighting Lou Gehrig 's Disease on every front.  By leading the way in global research, providing assistance for people with ALS through a nationwide network of chapters, coordinating multidisciplinary care through certified clinical care centers, and fostering government partnerships, The Association builds hope and enhances quality of life while aggressively searching for new treatments and a cure.  For more information about The ALS Association, visit our website at www.alsa.org.

SOURCE The ALS Association

RELATED LINKS
http://www.alsa.org


Source: www.prnewswire.com

Monday, February 25, 2013

“But You’re Not Vegan, Are You?”– Vegan Representations in Mainstream Media

“But You’re Not Vegan, Are You?”– Vegan Representations in Mainstream Media
As society grows more and more conscious of its food choices, we can clearly note the exponential rise of those taking on a mindful vegan life...But with the sunshine comes the rain. While those who are vegan certainly have a good understanding of what it means to live this lifestyle, members of the mainstream media sometimes supply a more critical standpoint, from small and muted critical reactions to direct criticisms to representations of veganism as a “diet,” which may open the lifestyle to criticisms from those wary of any “fad” diet trends.
Image courtesy of Stuart Miles / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Image courtesy of Stuart Miles / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Here at Vegan Mainstream, we know that the number of people with an interest in vegan living is growing – we need only reference our social media newsfeeds to see news of another vegan restaurant opening or another plant-based chef being featured in mainstream media outlets. As society grows more and more conscious of its food choices, we can clearly note the exponential rise of those taking on a mindful vegan life. This is the good news.

But with the sunshine comes the rain. While those who are vegan certainly have a good understanding of what it means to live this lifestyle, members of the mainstream media sometimes supply a more critical standpoint, from small and muted critical reactions to direct criticisms to representations of veganism as a “diet,” which may open the lifestyle to criticisms from those wary of any “fad” diet trends.

For example, when Vegan Chef Chloe Coscarelli recently appeared on the Kathie Lee & Hoda show to feature allergy-free vegan holiday dishes, Kathie Lee, halfway through the cooking segment, asked Chloe “but you’re not vegan though, are you?” in a tone which, from some viewpoints, implied that this word might indicate something just short of tragic for the budding chef. While Chloe handled the situation calmly and graciously, with a simple confirmation of her veganism, Kathie Lee’s tone, took the word “vegan” under a somewhat critical light.

Other types of criticism are more direct. For example, when it was announced that NFL player Arian Foster had adopted a vegan diet last year, many media outlets scrutinized him endlessly for his dietary choices. Foster told Yahoo! Sports: “Everybody cares what I eat now. They didn’t care before, but they do now. Everybody is a nutritionist now and they’re an expert on protein. Every day, every single day somebody knows something new to do. I just smile and say, ‘OK.’ ” Foster captured one of the important reasons for this criticism of public vegan personalities when he explained:  “We’re emotionally attached to food, bad food. Think about every big event in America, it’s attached to food. Christmas, Thanksgiving, birthdays, holidays … it’s with food. That’s why people feel so strongly about it; they’re emotionally attached to it.”

When celebrities and public figures announce their veganism, the mainstream media often describes these choices as vegan “diets,” “crazes,” or “fads” rather than lifestyles. In a mid-2012 U.S. News Health feature on “vegan diets,” author Angela Haupt begins by describing the “vegan diet” as “the strictest type of vegetarian,” implying a restrictive nature around the lifestyle. Haupt, while citing many of the commonly reported health benefits of veganism, still phrases the news in more than one instance that screams “fad.” For example, phrases like “Vegan diets have lately been surging in popularity” — work to create a feeling that veganism is just another diet, leaving the lifestyle open for criticism of its trendy nature.

These, of course, are but a few examples of the many ways veganism is discussed in mainstream media outlets. As a vegan presence in mainstream media grows, it would behoove us to consider these representations and reactions to vegan personalities in a society where the Standard American Diet prevails. With each and every vegan representative mentioned in mainstream media, we are given the opportunity for more and more people to potentially research and take on a plant-based life.

As a movement, we need to provide consistent, thoughtful, fact-based information to mainstream media outlets about the vegan lifestyle and its benefits, as well as explanations of those things that many might unknowingly see as a potential downfall of the “diet” (men’s health and vegan protein sources, for example). While many longtime vegans inherently know the benefits and tricks to following a healthful vegan life, mainstream media needs constant reassurance, so that when a vegan personality is featured or a well-known person becomes vegan, or announces his or her veganism, those responsible for communicating with the  masses can react in a more responsible, less critical manner. While it is not my expectation that everyone will immediately accept the vegan way of life, continual communication in the form of research studies, press releases, and non-sensationalized news pieces will do all of us a whole lot of good.

Let’s keep talking about vegan weight loss stories and posting delicious vegan recipes, but let’s also increase the number of research-based, health improvement stories – and let’s send them all to mainstream media outlets at the local, national, and global levels. If we keep taking steps to show that veganism is an all-encompassing, health-changing lifestyle (and not just a diet), perhaps eventually successful vegan persons will be met with less criticism or surprise in mainstream media spots — and maybe someday   mainstream media will actually start to help to show how amazing the vegan lifestyle really is.


Source: feedproxy.google.com

Curtis Bay Energy Continues To Expand Its Comprehensive Medical Waste Service Platform With The Merger And Acquisition Of National Waste Management

Curtis Bay Energy Continues To Expand Its Comprehensive Medical Waste Service Platform With The Merger And Acquisition Of National Waste Management

BALTIMORE, Feb. 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Curtis Bay Energy, a growing medical waste disposal company, announced that it has acquired assets of National Waste Management Inc., an established Massachusetts medical waste business with a permitted transfer station serving the New England marketplace.  Curtis Bay Energy will expand National Waste Management's medical waste transfer station service offering by providing comprehensive medical waste solutions, including consulting, collection, transportation, and sustainable processing services to the New England market.

"The acquisition of the Haverhill, Massachusetts medical waste transfer station is an opportunity for us to continue to expand our comprehensive medical waste service platform in the Northeast marketplace," said Steve Groenke , CEO for Curtis Bay .  Groenke added that Curtis Bay looks forward to bringing innovative and environmentally sustainable medical waste solutions to the New England community while serving customers with economical medical waste disposal services.

About Curtis Bay Energy
Curtis Bay Energy LP, headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, provides regulatory compliant medical waste services in North America.  The company provides comprehensive medical waste solutions including collection, transfer, transportation, recycling and resource recovery, disposal, and consulting services to hospitals, medical offices, pharmacies and other healthcare providers. The company is dedicated to providing customized, professional responses to all medical waste disposal challenges. Curtis Bay owns state-of-the-art medical waste processing and material management technology, and continues to invest in research and sustainable waste management solutions that provide the lowest carbon footprint.  A pioneer in the industry since 1991, Curtis Bay is focused on safety, compliance, and customer service.  Curtis Bay continues to actively evaluate strategic mergers and acquisitions while remaining focused on serving its growing customer base.  Visit www.curtisbayenergy.com for additional information.

SOURCE Curtis Bay Energy

RELATED LINKS
http://www.curtisbayenergy.com


Source: www.prnewswire.com

Sunday, February 24, 2013

Novartis Reports Omalizumab Significantly Improved Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria Symptoms in Patients Who Failed Standard Therapy

Novartis Reports Omalizumab Significantly Improved Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria Symptoms in Patients Who Failed Standard Therapy

- CIU can be a serious, debilitating form of hives; >50% of patients don't achieve symptom relief with approved antihistamine doses

- Omalizumab is a biologic therapy that targets the IgE antibody; further Phase III studies in CIU and regulatory submissions on track for 2013

EAST HANOVER, N.J., Feb. 24, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Late-breaking results from ASTERIA II, a Phase III placebo-controlled study, showed positive results in patients with moderate to severe chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU), referred to as chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) outside the United States, who remained symptomatic despite treatment with approved antihistamine doses. The data were published today in the New England Journal of Medicine and will be presented tomorrow at the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) annual meeting in San Antonio, Texas. Omalizumab is not indicated for CIU.

The primary endpoint was measured using a 21-point scale known as a weekly Itch Severity Score (ISS). The study met its primary endpoint, showing that omalizumab given at doses of 150 mg and 300 mg every four weeks led to significant improvement from baseline at Week 12 in the mean weekly ISS from baseline (approximately 14 in all treatment groups) by 8.1 (p=0.001) and 9.8 (p<0.001), respectively, compared to a 5.1 improvement in patients on placebo. The omalizumab 75 mg dose group did not demonstrate statistical significance compared to placebo for the primary endpoint. All eight pre-specified secondary endpoints in the ASTERIA II trial were met for the 150 mg and 300 mg doses, except for the 150 mg dose that did not show a significant difference from placebo in the proportion of angioedema-free days from Week 4 to Week 12 of therapy.

CIU is a distressing skin condition characterized by red, swollen, itchy and sometimes painful hives on the skin, spontaneously presenting and reoccurring for more than six weeks. At any given time, the prevalence of CIU is 0.5% to 1% worldwide. While antihistamines are used first to treat CIU, more than 50% of patients are unable to achieve symptom relief with approved doses.

"These results indicate that omalizumab could potentially be an important addition in the treatment of chronic idiopathic urticaria, a disease that can have a significant impact on patients and can be challenging to manage," said Tim Wright , Global Head of Development, Novartis Pharmaceuticals. "We are committed to helping patients with this disease and look forward to receiving further results from ongoing longer-term clinical trials."

ASTERIA II is the first Phase III data to be presented from a clinical trial program in CIU, which also includes two additional studies investigating the efficacy and safety profile of omalizumab over 24 weeks treatment duration. Novartis regulatory submissions are on track for 2013.

"These results are encouraging news for appropriate patients whose CIU is unresponsive to antihistamines," said study co-lead investigator, Thomas Casale , MD, Chief of Allergy & Immunology at Creighton University Medical Center and Professor of Medicine and Medical Microbiology at Creighton University, Omaha, NE. "New and effective therapeutic strategies for CIU are necessary as treatment options are limited for these patients."

Study Details
ASTERIA II was a global, multi-center, randomized, double-blind study that evaluated the efficacy and safety profile of omalizumab compared to placebo and involved 323 patients aged between 12 and 75 with a diagnosis of moderate to severe CIU for at least six months. Patients were required to have the presence of itch and hives for at least eight consecutive weeks at any time prior to enrollment despite use of approved doses of H1 antihistamine treatment. Patients were randomized to omalizumab 75 mg, 150 mg or 300 mg or placebo, given subcutaneously every four weeks, for a total of three doses within a 12-week treatment period, with a 16-week follow-up period. Patients continued to receive stable doses of their pre-randomization H1 antihistamine. For the primary endpoint, the omalizumab 75 mg dose group did not demonstrate statistical significance compared to placebo. However, omalizumab 150 mg and 300 mg dose groups met the pre-specified primary endpoint and all eight pre-specified secondary endpoints in the ASTERIA II trial, except for the 150 mg dose that did not show a significant difference from placebo in the proportion of angioedema-free days from Week 4 to Week 12 of therapy. Patient response, as measured by the median time to Minimally Important Difference (MID) in itch severity score,  a secondary endpoint, occurred at Week 1 (300 mg dose) and Week 2 (150 mg dose), compared to Week 4 in the placebo group.

The incidence and severity of adverse events (AEs) was similar across treatment groups. The most frequently reported treatment-emergent adverse events in patients taking omalizumab (>10% in any omalizumab treatment arm) in the study (including treatment period and follow-up period) were nasopharyngitis (nasal and throat infection or common cold), idiopathic urticaria (hives and itching, trigger unknown) and headache.  Five (6.3%) patients experienced serious adverse events (SAEs) in the omalizumab 300 mg dose group, compared to two (2.5%) in the placebo group. In the 150 mg and 75 mg dose groups, one patient experienced SAEs in each group (1.1% and 1.3%, respectively). No deaths were reported during this study.

About Omalizumab
Omalizumab is not indicated for CIU.

Omalizumab is a biologic therapy unique in targeting immunoglobulin E (IgE). Research is ongoing to understand the mechanism of action of omalizumab in CIU and to investigate its potential impact on the drivers of CIU. Omalizumab is approved for the treatment of moderate to severe allergic asthma under the brand-name Xolair® in more than 90 countries, including the US since 2003 and the EU since 2005. In the US, Xolair is indicated for appropriate people who are 12 years of age and older who have moderate to severe persistent allergic asthma caused by year-round allergens in the air and are uncontrolled on inhaled corticosteroids. Xolair helps reduce the number of asthma attacks in people with allergic asthma who still have asthma symptoms even though they are taking inhaled steroids. Xolair should not be used to treat other allergic conditions. Xolair is not a rescue medicine and should not be used to treat sudden asthma attacks. Xolair should not be used in children under 12 years of age.

Omalizumab is being jointly developed by Novartis and Genentech. In the US, Xolair® (omalizumab) for subcutaneous use in appropriate allergic asthma patients is co-promoted by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation and Genentech.

About Xolair® (omalizumab) for subcutaneous use
Important Safety Information: Appropriate Moderate-Severe Allergic Asthma Patients

Xolair should always be injected in a doctor's office. Patients should read the Medication Guide before starting Xolair treatment and before each and every treatment.

A severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis has happened in some patients after they received Xolair. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening condition and can lead to death. Patients must seek emergency medical treatment right away if symptoms occur.

Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

  • wheezing, shortness of breath, cough, chest tightness, or trouble breathing
  • low blood pressure, dizziness, fainting, rapid or weak heartbeat, anxiety, or feeling of "impending doom"
  • flushing, itching, hives, or feeling warm
  • swelling of the throat or tongue, throat tightness, hoarse voice, or trouble swallowing

Anaphylaxis from Xolair can happen:

  • right after receiving a Xolair injection or hours later
  • after any Xolair injection. Anaphylaxis has occurred after the first Xolair injection or after many Xolair injections.

A patient's healthcare provider should watch the patient for some time in the office for signs or symptoms of anaphylaxis after injecting Xolair. If patients have signs or symptoms of anaphylaxis, they must tell their healthcare provider right away.

Patients must not receive Xolair if they have ever had an allergic reaction to a Xolair injection. Patients should not use Xolair if they are allergic to any of its ingredients.

In clinical studies, a variety of cancer types, including breast, skin, prostate, and parotid (a type of salivary gland), were reported in more patients who received Xolair than in patients who did not receive Xolair.

Xolair is not a rescue medicine and should not be used to treat sudden asthma attacks.

Xolair is not a substitute for the medicines patients are already taking. Patients must not change or stop taking any of their other asthma medicines unless their doctor tells them to do so.

Some patients on Xolair may have an abnormal increase in eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) in the blood or tissues, sometimes causing an inflammation of blood vessels which can lead to rash, worsening of respiratory symptoms, heart trouble, and/or nerve pain and weakness.

Joint inflammation or pain, rash, fever, and swollen lymph nodes have been seen in some patients taking Xolair after the first or subsequent injections. Patients should talk to their doctor if they have experienced any of these signs and symptoms.

In allergic asthma studies, the most commonly seen side effects occurring more frequently in patients receiving Xolair than in patients who received placebo (an injection with no active medicine) were joint pain, pain (general), leg pain, tiredness (fatigue), dizziness, fracture, arm pain, itching, inflammation of the skin, and earache.

In allergic asthma studies, the most common side effects in patients, who either needed to stop Xolair or needed medical attention, were injection site reaction, viral infections, upper respiratory tract infection, sinusitis, headache, and sore throat. These side effects were seen at similar rates in Xolair-treated patients as in patients that did not receive Xolair.

There are other possible side effects with Xolair. Patients should talk to their doctor for more information and if they have any questions about their treatment.

Xolair has not been studied in pregnant women. Pregnant women exposed to Xolair are encouraged to enroll in the Xolair Pregnancy Exposure Registry. Patients can get more information by calling 1-866-4XOLAIR (1-866-496-5247) or by speaking with their doctor.

For the full Prescribing Information, including Boxed WARNINGS and Medication Guide for additional important safety information please log onto http://www.pharma.us.novartis.com/cs/www.pharma.us.novartis.com/product/pi/pdf/Xolair.pdf or contact Christine Cascio at 862-778-8026.

Disclaimer
The foregoing release contains forward-looking statements that can be identified by terminology such as "to be," "will be," "to investigate," "potentially," "could," "committed," "look forward to," "on track," "potential," or similar expressions, or by express or implied discussions regarding potential new indications or labeling for omalizumab or regarding potential future revenues from omalizumab. You should not place undue reliance on these statements.  Such forward-looking statements reflect the current views of management regarding future events, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results with omalizumab to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such statements. There can be no guarantee that omalizumab will be approved for any additional indications or labeling in any market. Nor can there be any guarantee that omalizumab will achieve any particular levels of revenue in the future. In particular, management's expectations regarding omalizumab could be affected by, among other things, unexpected clinical trial results, including unexpected new clinical data and unexpected additional analysis of existing clinical data; unexpected regulatory actions or delays or government regulation generally; the company's ability to obtain or maintain patent or other proprietary intellectual property protection; government, industry and general public pricing pressures; competition in general; unexpected manufacturing issues; the impact that the foregoing factors could have on the values attributed to the Novartis Group's assets and liabilities as recorded in the Group's consolidated balance sheet, and other risks and factors referred to in Novartis AG's current Form 20-F on file with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Novartis is providing the information in this press release as of this date and does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this press release as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

About Novartis
Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation researches, develops, manufactures and markets innovative prescription drugs used to treat a number of diseases and conditions, including cardiovascular, dermatological, central nervous system, bone disease, cancer, organ transplantation, psychiatry, infectious disease and respiratory. The company's mission is to improve people's lives by pioneering novel healthcare solutions.

Located in East Hanover, New Jersey, Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation is an affiliate of Novartis AG, which provides innovative healthcare solutions that address the evolving needs of patients and societies. Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, Novartis offers a diversified portfolio to best meet these needs: innovative medicines, eye care, cost-saving generic pharmaceuticals, preventive vaccines and diagnostic tools, over-the-counter and animal health products. Novartis is the only global company with leading positions in these areas. In 2012, the Group achieved net sales of USD 56.7 billion, while R&D throughout the Group amounted to approximately USD 9.3 billion (USD 9.1 billion excluding impairment and amortization charges). Novartis Group companies employ approximately 128,000 full-time-equivalent associates and operate in more than 140 countries around the world. For more information, please visit http://www.novartis.com.

Novartis is on Twitter. Sign up to follow @Novartis at http://twitter.com/novartis.

Novartis Media Relations

Julie Masow
Novartis Corporation
+1 212 830 2465 (direct)
+1 862 579 8456 (mobile)
julie.masow@novartis.com

Christine Cascio
Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation
+1 862 778 8026 (direct)
+1 862 926 7992 (mobile)
christine.cascio@novartis.com

e-mail: us.mediarelations@novartis.com  

 

SOURCE Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation

RELATED LINKS
http://www.novartis.com


Source: www.prnewswire.com

Saturday, February 23, 2013

Make Your Own Bubble Bath

Make Your Own Bubble Bath

By Abigail Beal (PioneerThinking.com)

Indulge yourself and make your own bubble bath. Wouldn’t it be nice to relax into a bubble bath that you’d created? Making bubble bath is simple & fun. They can also make wonderful gifts for friends and loved ones for the holidays or other special occasions.

The ingredients used to make bubble bath can be found in most large grocery stores or health food stores. You can also find all of the ingredients online. They are inexpensive.

One of the benefits of making your own bubble bath is that you know exactly what is in it. If you are allergic to anything, you can be certain it is not in your bubble bath.

Another benefit to making your own bubble bath is that you know all of the ingredients are fresh and natural. There is no concern about a product that was left on the shelf for months. Another benefit is that you can be certain that your product is environmentally conscious and that it does not promote animal testing.

Bubble bath is a wonderful inexpensive way to treat yourself. Supplies are easy to find and you can create a bubble bath suited exactly to your personal tastes and needs.

An important ingredient in bubble bath is essential oil. Essential oils add the scent to your bubble bath. Use these sparingly, as you only need to use several drops to get a pleasant effect. Many essential oils should not be ingested orally, so be sure to read the directions. There are also some essential oils such as marjoram that should never be used by pregnant women. You can research any essential oil at the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy www.naha.org. Also look in aromatherapy books and ask questions at the health food store when buying essential oils.

Some essential oils are known to be relaxing and soothing. The most popular include lavender, sandalwood, marjoram, frankincense, myrrh, rosewood and chamomile. These essential oils will calm you down, relax you and help you go to sleep.

Other essential oils will uplift and energize you. Peppermint, spearmint, eucalyptus and lemon oil are all oils that will brighten your day and are good to use during the day. Eucalyptus oil is especially good if you have a cold because it will break up your cold’s congestion.

To soften your skin, consider adding either coconut or almond oil to your bubble bath concoctions. Coconut oil has a wonderful nutty and floral fragrance to it. Almond oil is virtually unscented. Adding a half a cup of either almond oil or coconut oil to your bubble bath will soften your skin tremendously. This is a great addition for your bubble baths for the winter months.

Store your bubble baths in a nonbreakable container. The materials you use to make bubble baths can ‘keep’ for awhile. You can store your bubble bath on a shelf in your bathroom or bedroom for easy access.

Personalized bubble baths make an excellent gift. You can find many decorative plastic containers at your local art store. For decorative effect you can add either marbles or seashells to the bottom of the container. If you are giving bubble bath to a child or teenager, consider adding a small amount of glitter. Do not add food coloring because it can stain people temporarily. Tie your container with a pretty bow or even a piece of tulle.

When giving bubble bath as a gift, consider adding some other bath related items. Give bath mitts or a big yellow rubber duck. Your friend or loved one will appreciate such a thoughtful and personalized gift.

Whether you are making your bubble bath for yourself or for someone special – your bubble bath is really a treat to enjoy. Here are some recipes for bubble baths to inspire you and to get your started:

Sweet Dreams Bubble Bath

This bubble bath has lavender and patchouli oils to relax you before bedtime. Use soft music and lighted candles in your bathroom for a soothing effect.

* 6 drops of lavender oil
* 3 drops of patchouli oil
* 1 quart of distilled water
* 1 bar of castille soap. (4 oz. Bar)
* 4 ounces liquid glycerin

Directions: mix the water, soap and glycerin together and stir. Now add your essential oils to the mixture.

Cold Season Bubble Bath

This bubble bath will help you breathe easier, with eucalyptus oil to ease the cold congestion. This is perfect for the cold season.

* 6 drops of eucalyptus oil
* 3 drops of spearmint oil
* 3 drops of peppermint oil
* 1 quart of distilled water
* 1 bar of castille soap. (4 oz. Bar)
* 4 ounces liquid glycerin

Directions: mix the water, soap and glycerin together and stir. Now add your essential oils to the mixture.

Pure Sunshine Bubble Bath

This citrusy bubble bath will cheer you up and energize you. Perfect for a morning bath or use after exercising.

* 6 drops of orange oil
* 4 drops of grapefruit oil
* 3 drops of lemon oil
* 1 quart of distilled water
* 1 bar of castille soap. (4 oz. Bar)
* 4 ounces liquid glycerin

Directions: mix the water, soap and glycerin together and stir. Now add your essential oils to the mixture.

Love Potion Bubble Bath

This bubble bath will put you in a romantic mood. All of the ingredients are considered known aphrodisiac – so look out!

* 6 drops jasmine oil
* 3 drops rose oil
* 3 drops vanilla oil
* 6 drops ylang ylang oil
* 1 quart of distilled water
* 1 bar of castille soap. (4 oz. Bar)
* 4 ounces liquid glycerin

Directions: mix the water, soap and glycerin together and stir. Now add your essential oils to the mixture.

Free PDF Health Ebook...

10 Steps to Better Communication

    Simply right click the ebook title above, and choose Save As to save to your desktop!  You can find more FREE Natural Health, Wellness and Pet Ebooks at Remedies4.com!

About Dee Braun

Dee is an Adv. Certified Aromatherapist, Reiki Master, Adv. Color/Crystal Therapist, Herbalist, Dr. of Reflexology and single mom who is dedicated to helping others any way she can. One way she chooses to help is by offering information on the benefits and uses of natural health and healing methods for the well-being of both people and pets. Dee also teaches Aromatherapy, Reflexology and Color/Crystal Therapy at the Alternative Healing Academy

Source: www.natural-holistic-health.com

Mylan Launches Innovative Portfolio of Antiretroviral Products for Treatment of HIV/AIDS in South Africa

Mylan Launches Innovative Portfolio of Antiretroviral Products for Treatment of HIV/AIDS in South Africa

JOHANNESBURG and PITTSBURGH, Feb. 23, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Mylan Inc. (Nasdaq: MYL), one of the world's leading generic and specialty pharmaceutical companies, today announced that its subsidiary in South Africa, Mylan (Proprietary) Limited, has launched a comprehensive portfolio of antiretroviral (ARV) products. South Africa has the world's largest HIV/AIDS population, with approximately 5.6 million1 people living with the disease and an estimated 1.7 million2 people receiving treatment.

Mylan's South African ARV portfolio initially will consist of 11 first- and second-line adult and pediatric regimens. Included are several innovative products, such as fixed-dose combinations, single blister "co-packs," heat-stable products and novel pediatric formulations that have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

Mylan CEO Heather Bresch commented, "Mylan's mission is to provide the world's 7 billion people with access to high quality medicine. Recently, Mylan was awarded a 19% share of the ARV tender conducted by the South African government and we already have begun to deliver on this commitment. Building on this, today we are pleased to launch a broad and innovative ARV portfolio for the private sector. We believe that Mylan can set a new standard in the treatment of HIV/AIDS in South Africa by providing health care providers and those living with the disease access to high quality, affordable medicines."

Paul Miller , managing director and vice president of Mylan's South African business noted, "Mylan is an established leader in ARVs, with a global portfolio of 43 high quality ARVs, and the company has played a significant role in reducing the cost of these important therapies. The launch of Mylan's ARV portfolio in South Africa builds on our existing commercial presence in the country and is consistent with the company's commitment to addressing unmet needs with quality products. Mylan's ARV medicines are produced according to current Good Manufacturing Practices at facilities that have been inspected by leading regulatory authorities, including the South African Medicines Control Council, FDA and WHO. These quality standards are paramount everywhere that Mylan operates, including in South Africa."

Mylan has been a leading global player in the ARV arena for more than a decade. In 2002, Mylan Laboratories Limited (formerly Matrix Laboratories Limited) began providing reliable supplies of ARV active pharmaceutical ingredients to generic drug makers. In 2007, the company began offering finished dosage forms and launched a line of pediatric ARVs. Today, Mylan is widely respected for the quality, dependability and affordability of its ARVs. Mylan supplies ARVs to more than 120 countries around the world and nearly 40% of HIV/AIDS patients receiving treatment in developing countries depend on one of the company's ARV products.

Mylan is a global pharmaceutical company committed to setting new standards in health care. Working together around the world to provide 7 billion people access to high quality medicine, we innovate to satisfy unmet needs; make reliability and service excellence a habit, do what's right, not what's easy and impact the future through passionate global leadership. We offer a growing portfolio of more than 1,100 generic pharmaceuticals and several brand medications. In addition, we offer a wide range of antiretroviral therapies, upon which more than one-third of HIV/AIDS patients in developing countries depend. We also operate one of the largest active pharmaceutical ingredient manufacturers and currently market products in approximately 150 countries and territories. Our workforce of more than 18,000 people is dedicated to improving the customer experience and increasing pharmaceutical access to consumers around the world. But don't take our word for it. See for yourself. See inside. mylan.com

[1] http://www.unaids.org/en/regionscountries/countries/southafrica/

[2] http://www.unaids.org/en/regionscountries/countries/southafrica/

SOURCE Mylan Inc.

RELATED LINKS
http://www.mylan.com


Source: www.prnewswire.com

Friday, February 22, 2013

Webcast Alert: Heska Announces Fourth Quarter and Year-End 2012 Earnings Conference Call Webcast

Webcast Alert: Heska Announces Fourth Quarter and Year-End 2012 Earnings Conference Call Webcast

LOVELAND, Colo., Feb. 22, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Heska Corporation (Nasdaq: HSKA) announces the following Webcast:

 

What: 

Heska Corporation Invites You to Join Its Fourth Quarter and Year-End 2012 Earnings Conference Call on the Web

When:

Monday, February 25, 2013 @ 4:30 p.m. (EST) / 2:30 p.m. (MST)

Where:

www.heska.com (click on the Q4 and Year-End 2012 Earnings Call link on the front page of this website)

How:

Live over the Internet -- Simply log on to the web at the address above. 

 

Alternatively, you may use the following teleconference access numbers:  Domestic: 877-941-8631; International: 480-629-9723; Conference Call Access Number: 4603888.

Contact:  General Information:  Yvonne Mulley , 970-493-7272 yvonne.mulley@heska.com
Media Contact: Jason Napolitano , 970-493-7272 jason.napolitano@heska.com

If you are unable to participate during the live webcast, the call will be archived at www.heska.com until March 11, 2013.  To access the replay, click on the Q4 and Year-End 2012 Earnings Call link on the front page of this website.  Alternatively, you may use the telephone replay through March 11, 2013 at the following:  Domestic: 800-406-7325; International: 303-590-3030; Conference Call Access Number: 4603888.

Heska Corporation (NASDAQ: HSKA) sells advanced veterinary diagnostic and other specialty veterinary products.  Heska's state-of-the-art offerings to its customers include diagnostic instruments and supplies as well as single use, point-of-care tests, vaccines and pharmaceuticals.  The company's core focus is on the canine and feline markets where it strives to provide high value products and unparalleled customer support to veterinarians.  For further information on Heska and its products, visit the company's website at www.heska.com.

(Minimum Requirements to listen to broadcast:  The Windows Media Player software, downloadable free from http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/default.aspx and at least a 28.8 kbps connection to the Internet.  If you experience problems listening to the broadcast, send an email to webcastsupport@tfprn.com.)

SOURCE Heska Corporation

RELATED LINKS
http://www.heska.com


Source: www.prnewswire.com

Thursday, February 21, 2013

Hospitals Hook Up With Drugstore Giants To Lower Readmissions

Hospitals Hook Up With Drugstore Giants To Lower Readmissions

Patients who leave the hospital only to have to be readmitted within a few weeks cost U.S. taxpayers more than $17 billion a year.  In October, the federal government started cracking down on hospitals, penalizing them if too many of their patients bounce back.

That has hospitals searching for help from the corner drug store to manage the care of patients like Dorothy Irene Tucker.  She is a cheerful 73-year-old woman about to be discharged from Washington Adventist Hospital just outside of Washington, DC, where she says they don’t let you sleep much.

“To draw the blood, they would come in, like, twice before morning,” Tucker says.

It’s pretty common for patients to leave the hospital sleep-deprived. Many haven’t been eating regularly, and lots of people are still coming to terms with whatever event landed them in the hospital in the first place.

It’s also common for people in this bewildered state to be handed several new prescriptions upon discharge. Tucker takes pride in being able to manage all the different drugs she takes, but it’s a big list, and even she isn’t sure exactly what she’s supposed to be taking once she gets home.

“I was on a lot of medications. It was, I think, all together 23 bottles. Twenty-three bottles!  So they might cut me back when I go home,” she says.

Washington Adventist thinks patients like Tucker could use some help keeping all those drugs coordinated, and the hospital itself could use some help – so they enrolled her in a new program to connect her to a pharmacist.

Dr. Jeffery Kang is a vice president at Walgreens, and describes the new role as “our grandfather’s Walgreens on steroids.”  Walgreens is now contracting with hospitals to eliminate conflicting prescriptions on discharge, and then the pharmacy will follow up with patients to make sure they understand all their medications and take them properly when they get home.

The new expense makes sense for hospitals because if too many of their patients bounce back into the hospital within 30 days of being discharged, Medicare cuts their payments. Health Care Researcher Dr. Jane Brock says medication errors can be a big factor in readmissions.

“We know that people who have medication discrepancies, or are not adhering to what the health care team thought they were adhering to, have at least double the risk of becoming a readmission,” she says.

Washington Adventist Hospital Chief Medical Officer Dr. Randall Wagner says his hospital was one of the first to contract with Walgreens, and he is happy with the program so far.  He says it’s harder for hospitals to monitor discharged patients and their medications than it might sound.

“The infrastructure of doing these call back programs is not merely that there’s a telephone and someone who can dial it,” Wagner explains.  “It involves creating a database, creating a group of people who can call, and if the patient doesn’t answer the phone, there’s someone else who can call back. There’s a handoff of information between the inpatient side and the outpatient side.”

Research shows that having a pharmacist follow up with recently discharged patients reduces the likelihood that they’ll get worse at home and have to come back. Walgreens competitor CVS Caremark is also in the field.

Dorothy Tucker got home and had three fewer medications to keep track of than when she was admitted.  She says she looks forward to working with the pharmacy so she can learn her new regime.

This story is part of a collaboration that includes Colorado Public Radio, NPR and Kaiser Health News.


Source: feedproxy.google.com

Wednesday, February 20, 2013

Daegu Health College Uses IBM MobileFirst Solutions to Meet Students' Mobile Lifestyle

Daegu Health College Uses IBM MobileFirst Solutions to Meet Students' Mobile Lifestyle

ARMONK, N.Y., Feb. 21, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- IBM (NYSE: IBM) today announced that Daegu Health College, a health training college located in Daegu, South Korea, is using IBM MobileFirst solutions to design and deploy mobile apps to meet the growing mobile demands of its students. Now, students benefit from quick, reliable and secure access to a range of academic resources that improve the campus community experience. 

(Logo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20090416/IBMLOGO )

Research shows that there will be 48 million smartphones in use in South Korea by 2015.1 Considering that the nation's population just surpassed 50 million in 2012², South Korea is now recognized as one of the most wired societies. Consequently, it is critical for organizations to offer mobile apps and services that better target users' preferences and communications expectations.  Using IBM Worklight, part of the IBM MobileFirst Application and Data Platform as an underlying solution, and FAS, a system integrator and business partner of IBM, the college deployed "Smart DHC," a suite of mobile apps. Now, its 7,500 students can manage common academic inquiries from their mobile devices including verifying class registration, checking grades, viewing class schedules and searching library materials.

"In order to provide the same services across different platforms and devices, there are a lot of matters that must be considered," said Jae-Do Lee, head of the Academic Information Center, Daegu Health College. "By using IBM MobileFirst solutions, we have the ability to achieve integrated management for all of our mobile apps, enabling students to benefit from the apps regardless of device or platform."

Hear Daegu Health College officials talk about the solution here.

Using IBM MobileFirst, the college shortened the application development lifecycle. Additionally, with a single development process for multiple devices, Daegu reduces the time and costs associated with developing for multiple operating systems. By improving time-to-market, Daegu can quickly deliver valuable services to students and staff, improving student and employee satisfaction.

"IBM recognizes that mobile is a global opportunity and we are committed to putting the right tools in the hands of our clients and partners to capitalize on it," said Marie Wieck , general manager, application and integration middleware, IBM. "The IBM MobileFirst portfolio gives companies access to the software, consulting, services and partnerships they need to successfully execute on their mobile strategies and better meet the needs of their customers."

About IBM MobileFirst

As the first new technology platform for business to emerge since the World Wide Web, mobile computing represents one of the greatest opportunities for organizations to expand their business. Based on nearly 1,000 customer engagements, 10 mobile-related acquisitions in the last four years, a team of thousands of mobile experts and 270 patents in wireless innovations, IBM MobileFirst offers an array of solutions that helps businesses connect, secure, manage and develop mobile networks, infrastructures and applications.

To learn more, visit the IBM MobileFirst press kit or http://www.ibm.com/mobilefirst. Follow @ibmmobile, #ibmmobile on Twitter, and see IBM MobileFirst on YouTube, Tumblr and Instagram.


1ROA Holdings, Korean Mobile Markets Dynamics and Forecast 2011-2015, July 2011

²Asia News Network, South Korea's Population passes 50 million, June, 2012

Media Relations Contacts:
IBM
Tara Sucato Tsapepas
Phone: 917.472.3701
Email: tjsucato@us.ibm.com

SOURCE IBM


Source: www.prnewswire.com

Brazilian Hair: Your Ultimate Brazilian Hair Removal Questions Answered!

Brazilian Hair: Your Ultimate Brazilian Hair Removal Questions Answered!
Imagine yourself in a bikini shop. You see this great two-piece bikini that you know would look great on you. You walk towards that great bikini, and tried it on. Oh boy, were you right! It sure looks amazing on you. Now, you are looking forward to that day when you can wear it at the beach. Slather on some lotion and bask in the sun.
Source: EzineArticles.com

Here’s another beauty myth buster!

Here’s another beauty myth buster!
We receive a lot of beauty industry press releases that contain information that is…uh…crappy, to put it politely. So it’s a nice change of pace when we see information that’s science- based. Case in point, here’s the latest from hair-care advocate and health scientist Audrey Davis-Sivasothy at  www.haircarerehab.com. Debunking hair care myths • Myth: There’s a magic pill (or [...]

Post image for Here’s another beauty myth buster!

We receive a lot of beauty industry press releases that contain information that is…uh…crappy, to put it politely. So it’s a nice change of pace when we see information that’s science- based. Case in point, here’s the latest from hair-care advocate and health scientist Audrey Davis-Sivasothy at  www.haircarerehab.com.

Debunking hair care myths

• Myth: There’s a magic pill (or oil, serum or balm) to grow our hair faster, stronger or thicker. Unfortunately, no. Hair growth is genetically predetermined and controlled by our hormones. Unless the magic pill affects our genes or hormones, there’s no hope that it might make our hair grow. (This includes prenatal vitamins. Credit the upsurge in hormone levels during pregnancy for those vibrant tresses!) Basic vitamin supplements can offer slight improvements in hair quality, but only if our body truly lacks the particular vitamin or mineral being taken.

• Myth: Trimming will make your hair grow stronger, longer, faster or thicker. Since hair is dead, cutting the ends has no effect on what happens at the scalp. Strands will grow at the same predetermined rate each month, and individual strands will grow in at the same thickness as before. While trimming or cutting the hair does seem to give the appearance of thicker hair, this is only because all of the freshly trimmed hairs now have the same, clear endpoint.

• Myth: Expensive products do more! Not necessarily. Always look for ingredients over brand names. There are just as many poorly formulated high-end products as there are bargain ones – and just as many worthy expensive products as there are bargain ones, too!

• Myth: Products made for or marketed to (insert race/ethnicity) cannot be used by those of other backgrounds. False! The ingredients in a product matter much more than to whom the product is marketed. In fact, most products have the same set of three to five base ingredients. Products for “ethnic” hair types tend to be more moisturizing and have more oils and proteins than those for other hair types. Damaged hair needs a good dose of moisture, proteins and oil to regain its healthy appearance. The same holds true for products marketed to those with color-treated hair. Even if your hair is not dyed, using a product for color-treated hair can be beneficial because these shampoo formulas tend to be gentler (to preserve easily washed away hair color) and conditioners tend to be super-conditioning, but lightweight, to help reduce dryness from the coloring process.

• Myth: Washing your hair too often leads to dryness. This depends. Hair can be cleansed as often as you like without dryness, provided you use the proper products to retain moisture. Those who generally have naturally drier hair types (including those of us with curls and highly textured hair) often shy away from frequent cleansing – but water is not the enemy! It’s the stripping shampoos and mediocre conditioners we use that are to blame. Using the proper moisturizing and conditioning products at wash time will actually increase your hair’s hydration.

Image credit: http://fc09.deviantart.net/


Source: thebeautybrains.com

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

New Florida Peptides Site offering CJC-1295, GHRP-6, Sermorelin and more!

New Florida Peptides Site offering CJC-1295, GHRP-6, Sermorelin and more!

TAMPA, Fla., Feb. 20, 2013 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- Florida Peptides is a United States based provider of peptides for research purposes. Peptides are short polymers of amino acid monomers linked together by peptide bonds. 

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130219/CG62415)

Research peptides are used around the world for a number of reason but most notably to test the effects of growth hormone related hormones and growth hormone related peptides and their effects.

Research peptides act in a similar manner as prohormones, which when taken convert to a hormone. The main differences are that prohormones are often associated with testosterone boosters and peptides are usually associated with growth hormone releasing product.

Another difference is that in some cases prohormones actually convert to testosterone and research peptides typically just increase the release of growth hormone. This is not always the case as certain prohormones are known as testosterone boosters and act in a similar manner to research peptides, meaning they too can increase natural production of growth hormone over a given period of time. It has been shown that an increased amount of testosterone can lead to increased HGH as well as IGF-1 levels in the human body.

Florida Peptides carries a variety of products such as: CJC-1295, GHRP-6, Sermorelin, GHRP-2,  CJC-1295 DAC, Bacteriostatic 0.9% Sodium Chloride and hard to find Bacteriostatic Water.

The site also has a dedicated blog page used to inform and educate potential buyers of some prior research conducted regarding these peptide products.

Florida Peptides is proud to offer high quality research grade peptides like CJC-1295 for research purposes.

FloridaPeptides.com is a United States based distributor of the highest grade research peptides and Amino Acid Derivatives available. We utilize the most advanced techniques to ensure fast and secure product delivery. These items are intended for research purposes only.

To place an order or learn more please visit the following link- http://floridapeptides.com/

Media Contact: Don P, US Peptides LLC, 727-210-7821, info@useptides.com

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

SOURCE US Peptides LLC

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Monday, February 18, 2013

What Is A Probiotic?

What Is A Probiotic?

picture of intestinal system

What is a probiotic? What makes a good probiotic supplement? And, what role do probiotics play in digestive health?

Probiotics are "friendly" bacteria that include several species of lactobacillis such as acidophilus and bifidophilus. They aid in the digestion of proteins and the absorption of nutrients, especially the B vitamins. They have antifungal and detoxifying properties, and are very important to the immune system.

The intestinal flora of a healthy human colon should have a thriving colony of about 85 percent lactobacilli and 15 percent coliform bateria (Balch). Unfortunately, modern diets, lifestyles and pollution have these numbers reversed in a vast majority of the human population.

An imbalance in the intestinal flora can cause consumed food to be improperly digested, which then leads to a toxic buildup of fecal matter and gas in the colon. If not quickly moved through the bowel, these toxins then leak into the blood and other areas of the body. Toxins in the blood and organs present themselves as various symptoms, and if not caught in the beginning, lead to a domino, chain reaction of health problems.

An unhealthy intestinal flora can lead to:

  • Intestinal gas and bloating
  • Heart burn/acid reflux
  • Intestinal toxicity
  • Immune system deficiency
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome
  • Crohn's Disease
  • Colitis
  • Diverticulitis
  • Allergies
  • Leaky Gut Syndrome
  • Systemic Toxicity
  • Constipation and diarrhea
  • Nutritional Deficiencies
  • Yeast infections
  • Rashes (even diaper rash and cradle cap)
  • Itching
  • Pancreatitis
  • Cold sores
  • Diabetes
  • Hypoglycemia
  • Hormone Imbalance
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Celiac Disease
  • Cancer
  • Cystic Fibrosis
  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
  • Lupus
  • Fungal infections (such as athlete's foot, jock itch)
  • Anorexia
  • and more

To support the balance of friendly bacteria in the intestinal system, supplements called probiotics are highly beneficial. However, not all probiotics are created equal. It's important to know and have confidence in the manufacturing practices of the brand of probiotic you use.

A probiotic supplement needs to have viable, living strains of bacteria in order for it to be of benefit. 1 billion organisms per gram are advisable. Also, a non-dairy formula may be best for some people with food allergies, as dairy is a common food allergen.

At high temperatures, probiotics lose their viability as the friendly bacteria die. Thus, it's important to keep probiotics in a cool, dry place such as in a refrigerator.

Antibiotics are especially damaging to friendly bacteria as they not only kill harmful bacteria, but they destroy the beneficial ones as well. So, it is very important to support and rebuild the balance of beneficial bacteria in the intestinal system after antibiotics are finished. If balance is not regained, digestion problems may ensue. This then leads to toxicity in the body and other health problems.

It may be hard to acknowledge that some bacteria are our "friends", and that we need to nurture and protect them. However, it is vital that we do.

From time to time, we need to add more bacteria "friends" to our intestinal party to keep the "thugs" from taking over and stealing our health. On these occasions, a high quality probiotic supplement can get our digestive system back in check and stop a health crisis in it's tracks.

If you no longer have to ask the question, "what is a probiotic?" you're one step closer to having a whole host of happy "friends".

Resource:Balch, Phyllis A., et al, Prescription for Nutritional Healing, Second Edition, (1997): 56.

For educational purposes only, not intended to diagnose or prescribe.

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