Friday, September 28, 2012

WNED-TV Offers “Food for Thought” on Halloween Night


WNED public broadcasting offers some “food for thought” Halloween evening with two intriguing programs that offer a fresh perspective on healthy living and a better understanding of the food we eat.





3 Steps to Incredible Health! with Joel Fuhrman, M.D.
Oct. 31, 8 p.m. on WNED-TV
It’s not about willpower, it’s about knowledge! Obesity and chronic disease is a crisis plaguing America. More than 65 percent of Americans are overweight or obese -- and that number is growing just like our waistlines. In this practical, solutions-based program, Dr. Joel Fuhrman shares his revolutionary health plan ¾ it’s a healthy, effective and scientifically proven way to shed weight quickly and reclaim vitality and good health. 

NOVA scienceNOW  Can I Eat That?
Oct. 31, 10 p.m. on WNED-TV
What are the secrets behind your favorite foods? Why are some treats -- like chocolate chip cookies -- delectable, while others -- like cookies made with mealworms -- disgusting? You might think you understand what makes something sweet, salty or bitter, but host David Pogue gets a taste of a much more complicated truth, as he ventures into labs and kitchens where everything from apple pie to Thanksgiving turkey to juicy grasshoppers is diced, sliced, dissected and put under the microscope. If scientists can uncover exactly what's behind the mouthwatering flavors and textures we take for granted every day, could they help us enjoy our food more -- without packing on the pounds?

Through WNED-TV, ThinkBright and Well/WORLD TV, Classical 94.5 WNED and WBFO-FM 88.7/WNED-AM 970, the member-supported WNED Buffalo/Toronto provides high quality programming and services to local, regional and national audiences that enlighten, inspire, entertain and educate Western New York and Southern Ontario communities. Additional information about WNED can be found at wned.org.

Heroes 5k Run & Healthwalk Event


$2,500 in CASH PRIZES TO BE AWARDED

WHAT:      ECMC Lifeline Foundation Heroes 5K Run & Healthwalk

The annual event salutes WNY Heroes from the Law Enforcement and Firefighting Professions, Emergency Medical Services and ECMC Physicians, Nurses and Staff. 

WHO:         Honorees for 2012 are: Buffalo Police Department and SWAT Team; Erie County Medical Center Police Department; Buffalo Firefighter Kevin Hairston; ECMC Charge Nurse Madonna Lakso, RN, CCRN; and ECMC Chief of Emergency Services Dr. Michael Manka.   (Accompanying News Release includes brief stories about honorees.

Honorary Marshalls include: Buffalo Police Commissioner Daniel Derenda and Buffalo Fire Commissioner Garnell Whitfield Jr.  Other key participants include: ECMC Corp. CEO Jody Lomeo; and Event Chair Robert Holliday, VP/GM, AT&T; Lifeline Board Member

WHERE:   Ring Road in Delaware Park

WHEN:      Saturday, September 29, 2012

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

8:30 AM:        Registration/Breakfast (adjacent to Start of Race—see map below)

9:45 AM:        Welcoming Remarks; Motorcade (Police, Firefighting, Emergency Vehicles); Arrival of Air One

10:00 AM:      Run Starts (Run is sanctioned as a USTAF event)

10:05 AM:      Healthwalk Starts

 (approx.)    11:00 AM:      Award Ceremony/Post Race Party (adjacent to Finish of Race—see map below);
Live Music by “Dive Street Union

WHY:       To Honor Heroes for 2012 and to hold the competitive run and healthwalk

ATTN NEWS MEDIA: Interview Opportunities possible with willing Honorees/Dignitaries. 

EVENT SPONSORS: The Heroes 5K Run and Healthwalk is presented by AT&T with support from Exigence Team Health, Jody & Mary Lomeo and Family, Saturn Radiology, McGuire Development Co., McGuire Pharmacy, Ad Pro Sports, Rural Metro Medical Services, First Niagara Bank, Palladian Health, Entercom Radio and WGRZ-TV Channel2 On Your Side.   


Thursday, September 27, 2012

Investigational Brain Cancer Vaccine to Be Tested in Phase I Roswell Park Study


Peptide vaccine targets cancer survival protein, putting tumor cells in a Catch 22

BUFFALO — A new clinical research study at Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI) will test a first-of-its-kind cancer “vaccine” that may prove effective against many forms of solid-tumor cancers. The vaccine, to be investigated in a trial involving patients with brain cancer, generates an immune response that appears to put the target molecule, the cancer survival protein survivin, into a bind it can’t escape.

The peptide vaccine, developed at Roswell Park by Robert Fenstermaker, MD, and Michael Ciesielski, PhD (photograph below) is based upon a specially engineered small protein molecule called a “peptide mimic.” Dr. Fenstermaker is principal investigator of the phase I clinical research study, which will test the safety and immunological effects of the vaccine in patients with two types of brain cancer: glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and anaplastic glioma. Called SurVaxM, the injectable vaccine will initially be given in four doses to nine patients.

Survivin, produced by at least 80% of cancers, is a protein that helps cancer cells to survive under stressful conditions. It is present only in diseased cells, which are caught in an unwinnable situation when exposed to the vaccine.

“SurVaxM puts cancer cells in a Catch 22,” says Dr. Fenstermaker, who is Chair of RPCI’s Department of Neurosurgery and Director of the Institute’s Neuro-Oncology Program. “The vaccine kills tumor cells that express survivin. If the cells turn survivin off to escape the vaccine, they’re essentially committing suicide.”

The engineered peptide used in the vaccine is able to stimulate an immune response because the cancer recognizes it as a foreign molecule.

“We arrived at this peptide through reverse immunology,” notes Dr. Ciesielski. “We knew we wanted to target survivin because it is expressed by so many tumors. We looked at many survivin peptides trying to find the best one to use as our vaccine. Once we identified one that looked promising, we engineered it to be more potent and produce a better response by enlisting multiple arms of the immune system.”

In preclinical studies, the vaccine was effective against several cancers, including gliomas and prostate, ovarian, breast and kidney tumors that produce survivin. Studies in which human glioma, lymphoma and leukemia cells were exposed to the vaccine outside the body also produced a strong response. “In those earlier studies, the response was persistent,” Dr. Ciesielski says. “It appears that the vaccine continues to provide lasting immunity after the tumor has been eliminated.”

Roughly 15,000 people are newly diagnosed with glioblastomas and anaplastic gliomas in the U.S. every year. These cancers are very difficult to treat, and are often fatal.

“Survival rates for malignant gliomas have improved modestly over the last two decades, but better therapies are desperately needed,” Dr. Fenstermaker says. “We’re anxious to move ahead with this study and, hopefully, go on to larger studies in the years ahead, but we first have to show that this is a safe and well-tolerated drug for a group of terrible diseases.”

Because they enlist the body’s own cells to fight cancer, immune-based therapies generally have few adverse side effects. The trial is the fourth clinical research study launched through RPCI’s Center for Immunotherapy this year.

The study is National Cancer Institute trial no. NCT01250470. For more information about SurVaxM and this new phase I research study, call 1-877-ASK-RPCI (1-877-275-7724) or email askrpci@roswellpark.org.

Ciesielski and Fenstermaker credit early seed funding from donations with helping to move their research forward and generating additional dollars in new grant funding from organizations such as the National Institutes of Health/National Cancer Institute (R21 NS049309-01) and the American Cancer Society. Additional support from The Jayne and Phil Hubbell Family was instrumental in advancing the team’s research.

Video interview with Drs. Fenstermaker and Ciesielski available at https://vimeo.com/48443468. For additional photos and multimedia, including B-roll video, send request to:annie.deck-miller@roswellpark.org.

Saturday, September 22, 2012

Falls Prevention Awareness Event

In observance of National Falls Prevention Awareness Day, September 22, 2012, His Honor Mayor Byron W. Brown has proclaimed September 25, 2012, Falls Prevention Awareness Day in the City of Buffalo.

The non-profit Wellness Institute of Greater Buffalo, in partnership with the City of Buffalo Department of Senior Services, will host a special event to raise community awareness of the importance of falls prevention. Falls are the number cause of injury to older adults, and often result in pain, disability, and loss of independence. This FREE event will focus on health topics and areas of interest to older adults, with a special emphasis on falls prevention.

September 25, 2012, 9:30 A.M. – 2:00 P.M.
Schiller Park Senior Center
2057 Genesee St., Buffalo, NY 14211

The event, which is of special interest to seniors and caregivers, is open to everyone. Educational materials and door prizes will be available. Local partners, D’Youville College, Catholic Health System, Erie County Department of Senior Services, Univera and others will offer falls risk assessments and screenings. Visitors may also bring assistive devices, such as canes, walkers, etc., for evaluation for correct usage. D’Youville College Department of Pharmacy will offer “Brown Bag” medication reviews. Visitors are encouraged to bring all their prescription and over-the-counter medications for review by a pharmacist, who will check for possible drug interactions and help to insure safe use of medications.

For more information on this special event or upcoming Golden Years Wellness Tour stops,

call 716-851-4052 or email BeActive@city-Buffalo.org, or visit www.CreatingHealthyCommunities.org.



the internet, girls, and self-esteem


It’s hard growing up today. The internet can make it that much harder.

by Mary Jo Rapini, MEd, LPC            
(Special to BHL) - From the age of twelve to at least eighteen years of age, a girl is under constant scrutiny about her body, looks and sex appeal. We have advanced technologically, but we haven't gotten any less harsh with the judgment and peer pressure girls feel and are up against. There is recent evidence that suggests that teens experience an increase in depression when they are frequently engaged with Facebook. It is not appropriate for kids under the age of thirteen to be on Facebook, and it can cause increased anxiety and depression with many teens, as it adds a constant "in your face" discussion involving what many teen girls worry about. Questions such as, "Am I pretty enough? Am I prettier than her? Am I more popular? Is my boyfriend cheating on me?"             
The NetGirls Project set out to find just how damaging a prolonged exposure to the Internet can be on a young girl's view of herself, and released its findings last week. Within the study they found correlations between excessive media use (excessive was described as more than 3.5 hours a day, but many girls are on 5 or more hours a day) and lower self-esteem, body esteem, and depression. The rates of depression and lower self-esteem were more evident with the girls on social media websites, which make total sense as they are the ones most exposed to constant photos and status updates. Dr. Amy Slater, from the School of Psychology at Flinders University in Australia, led the study, which surveyed 1000 girls between the ages of twelve and sixteen. Dr. Slater found the biggest worry was the girls being fearful of gaining weight and not having good enough bodies.          
The most recent studies are not surprising in their findings. They found that the more time the girl spends on the Internet, the more significant the effects on her self/body esteem. The effects are deleterious and do not go away. Many of these girls carry their defeated body and self-esteem issues into their college years and beyond. If the teen's family is not engaged with the teen, the Internet takes on a much more potent place in the teen's world. In fact, it may become the child's world.
Pediatricians are now encouraging parents to talk with their kids about being online and how to recognize depression and anxiety caused by the Internet. This is difficult for many parents, because anyone who has a teenage girl understands that "moodiness" comes with the territory. It may help parents to be aware of these signs though, and rather than try to cheer their daughter up, actually engage her in conversation. Ask her how you can help, listen to her, and talk with her, not at her.          
Here are ten signs your teen may be depressed:
1.  Loss of interest in activities, hobbies and other things
     they used to be very interested in.
2.  More isolated--never see them with their friends anymore. 
3.  Sleeping all the time or up in the middle of the night because  they cannot sleep.
4.  A loss or increase in appetite.
5.  Notable weight loss or gain.
6.  Lethargic or flat mood.
7.  More irritable or easily frustrated.
8.  A downward trend in grades.
9.  Not wanting to go to school.
10.  Weepy, labile moods.
As a parent, if you note any of these moods for more than two weeks, it is time to take your daughter to the doctor. Kids feel more engaged with their Internet now than many of them do with their parents. This is a dangerous situation waiting to happen.         
Most women would be intimated to post a photo of them on Youtube and ask viewers to rate their beauty. Could most adult women survive the honest, sometimes cruel and unforgiving comments made by strangers in regards to their looks? Most likely the answer would be "NO" (it hurts no matter who says a person is ugly or heavy or  whatever else the audience may say).  However, our kids are doing it, and the viewers are no less cruel than they would be with an adult with their comments. Young girls are fragile with their sense of self and beauty. They don't have a well-established self-esteem because their self-esteem many times is built on what others say about them. I have yet to meet a patient who cannot tell me what someone said or did when they were five or six that hurt their body image and self-esteem. In fact, they may tear up when they recount the story in my office. How can any of us deny that what our girls are seeing every day on the Internet or within their social media page is affecting them and their view about their body?          
Most girls struggle with being popular, feeling pretty enough, and feeling good about their friends and academic achievements. What is important to understand is how a girl feels at the ages of 12 through  Teen depression 16 has a lasting effect on how she will feel at the age of 25 or possibly 30. If we want women to be empowered and feel confident to be a loving partner, mother, and/or career woman, perhaps spending more time engaging with her as a teen would help. This will become more difficult if we don't talk to our kids about what they are viewing on the Internet, and continually pull them back to their real life and family. The Internet has so much to offer our young girls, but left unsupervised and unengaged with the family, it can become another source of lowering girls' self-esteem and worth.
It's a new world out there for parents as much as children. Get involved. Talk to your kids. Visit the sights they are visiting. Let them know you are there when they need you. The teen years are a relatively short amount of time, but decisions made during this time can change both you and your child's life forever. It is easier to make healthy choices in life if you feel good about yourself.           
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mary Jo Rapini, MEd, LPC, is a licensed psychotherapist and co-author with Janine J. Sherman, ofStart Talking: A Girl's Guide for You and Your Mom About Health, Sex or Whatever. Read more about the book at www.StartTalkingBook.com and more about Rapini at www.maryjorapini.com

Waldorf Salad Update


Apples and other fruits and veggies provide a nutrition powerhouse in this classic salad

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Salad Ingredients:
4 cups thinly sliced apples (about 3 large)
1 cup thinly sliced celery (2 stalks)
3/4 cup cashew nuts
1/2 cup dried cranberries (like Craisins®)
Arugula, watercress, or frisee salad greens, washed and dried
Dressing Ingredients:
1 tablespoon fresh apple cider
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon raspberry vinegar
1 tablespoon finely diced shallots
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly cracked pepper
Directions:
1. In large bowl stir together all salad ingredients; set aside.
2. Meanwhile in a 1-cup glass measure add all dressing ingredients. With wire whisk, mix well.
3. Pour about 1/2 of dressing over salad ingredients; toss to coat all ingredients.
4. For each serving, place about 1 cup of apple salad on top of a pile of salad greens; drizzle with additional dressing if desired. Refrigerate leftovers.
Yield: 6 to 8 servings
Nutrition Information: Each serving contains 170 calories, 26g carbohydrate (9% Daily Value), 3g fiber (12% Daily Value), 3g protein, 8g fat (12% Daily Value), 1.5g saturated fat (8% Daily Value), 0mg cholesterol, and 180mg sodium (8% Daily Value).
Photo credit:  Amy Ross via Flickr

Amazing Apples!


the amazing apple - 12 healthy reasons to have one now

12 proven ways apples and apple products positively impact health, from head to toe, and from the inside out:

1. Their Anti-Cancer Effect
Apples are rich in antioxidants, especially quercetin, which have been identified to help inhibit cancer onset and cell proliferation. In one study, the more apples per day individuals ate, the less likely they were to develop colorectal cancer. The anti-cancer effect was seen even when an individual had a low total consumption of fruits and vegetables but consumed at least an apple a day. According to the American Institute for Cancer Research, about one third of all cancer deaths could be prevented by improved diet, particularly increased consumption of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
2. Alzheimer’s Disease Benefits
A University of Massachusetts-Lowell clinical trial showed that drinking apple juice significantly improved mood and behavior among a group of patients diagnosed with moderate-to-severe Alzheimer’s disease. Cornell University research also suggests that quercetin may be the compound in apples that protects brain cells against oxidative stress associated with Alzheimer’s.
3. Heart Health
Researchers at the University of California-Davis report that daily consumption of apples and apple juice may help reduce the damage caused by the LDL, the “bad” type of cholesterol, and protect against heart disease.
4. Asthma
Research from the United Kingdom reports children of mothers who eat apples during pregnancy are much less likely to exhibit symptoms of asthma at age five. Apples were the only food found to have a positive association with a reduced risk of asthma among a variety of foods consumed and recorded.
5. Digestive Health
University of Denmark researchers discovered apples and apple products could boost intestinal health by increasing the numbers of good gut bacteria. The friendly bacteria in the intestines feed on apple pectin, a fiber found abundantly in apples.
6. Brain Health
Researchers from Cornell University found that apple nutrients protected brain neurons against oxidative damage. Such damage can contribute to neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease. The study again highlighted the antioxidant quercetin as a principle compound responsible for the protective effect.
7. Bone Health
A study published in the November 2010 edition of the American Journal of Clinical Nutritionsuggests older women who eat plenty of fruits, including apples and apple products, along with vegetables and whole grains, may have a lower chance of bone fractures than those not getting their fill.
8. Muscle Strength
A natural compound found in the apple’s skin, called ursolic acid, may help prevent muscle wasting that can result from aging and illness.
9. Respiratory System
A National Institutes of Health study reported that foods rich in fiber and flavonoids, found abundantly in apples, may reduce chronic productive cough and other respiratory issues.
10. Weight Management or Weight Loss
State University of Rio de Janeiro researchers studying the impact of fruit intake on weight loss found overweight women who ate the equivalent of three apples a day lost more weight on a low-calorie diet than women who didn’t eat the fiber-rich fruit.
11. Metabolic Syndrome
Adults who consume apples, apple juice and apple sauce are likely to have lower blood pressure and trimmer waistlines, resulting in a reduced risk of metabolic syndrome, a cluster of health problems related to diabetes and heart disease.
12. Immune System
Soluble fiber, like apple pectin, may reduce the inflammation associated with obesity-related diseases and strengthen the immune system, according to a University of Illinois research study.
“Health and nutrition experts agree and encourage the consumption of fruits and vegetables in every meal as part of a healthy diet, says Nancy Foster, president and CEO of the trade association USApple. “This message is affirmed in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans as well as in USDA’s My Plate. Apples are a delicious way to add vital nutrients and disease prevention to your daily diet.”

no evidence that black cohosh relieves menopause symptoms


An Australian study casts doubt on an herbal treatment used by many.

By Glenda Fauntleroy
(Special to BHL) - Although many women coping with hot flashes and other distressing symptoms of menopause have turned to black cohosh supplements as a treatment alternative, a new review finds no evidence that the herb is effective.
“I was a little surprised of the outcome of the review given the large number of perimenopausal women that use the herb across the globe for the management of menopausal symptoms, as well as the many manufacturers and therapists that promote the herb for this purpose,” said lead reviewer Matthew Leach, Ph.D., a research fellow in the School of Nursing & Midwifery at the University of South Australia.
Leach and his co-reviewer evaluated 16 studies involving 2,027 menopausal women. Study participants used an average daily oral preparation of 40 mg of black cohosh for an average of 23 weeks. Treatments for randomly assigned comparison groups included using placeboes, hormone therapy, red clover, or antidepressants.
The reviewers found there was insufficient evidence to support the effectiveness of black cohosh for menopausal symptoms. There was no significant difference between it and the placebo groups in changing hot flash frequency. Compared to black cohosh, hormone therapy significantly reduced hot flash frequency.
“I have many women patients who have tried black cohosh,” said Brent A. Bauer, M.D., director of the Complementary and Integrative Medicine Program at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota. “I would say the response seems to roughly fall into three camps: those that get a pretty noticeable improvement in symptoms and continue to use it long term, those that get some improvement but not enough to get enthusiastic about it, and those that try it and perceive no benefit at all.”
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Glenda Fauntleroy is a Contributing Writer for the Health Behavior News Service, part of the Center for Advancing Health
Journal Reference:
Matthew J Leach, Vivienne Moore. Black cohosh (Cimicifugaspp.) for menopausal symptoms. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2012, Issue 9. Art. No.: CD007244 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD007244.pub2


fda warns:serious burns may result from topical pain relievers


Many popular products can cause serious burns in rare cases.

(BHL) The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is alerting the public that certain over-the-counter (OTC) products applied to the skin for the relief of mild muscle and joint pain have been reported to cause rare cases of serious skin injuries, ranging from first- to third-degree burns, where the products were applied. These OTC topical muscle and joint pain relievers are available as single- or combination-ingredient products that contain menthol, methyl salicylate, or capsaicin. The various formulations include creams, lotions, ointments, and patches.
The product are marketed under various brand-names and include, Bengay, Capzasin, Flexall, Icy Hot, and Mentholatum.  They are used to temporarily relieve minor muscle and joint aches and pain
When applied to the skin, the products produce a local sensation of warmth or coolness; but they should not cause pain or skin damage. However, there have been rare cases of serious burns following their use.  Some of the burns had serious complications requiring hospitalization. In many cases, the burns occurred after only one application of the OTC topical muscle and joint pain reliever, with severe burning or blistering occurring within 24 hours of the first application. Based on the reported cases, the majority of second- and third-degree burns occurred with the use of products containing menthol as the single active ingredient, and products containing both menthol and methyl salicylate, in concentrations greater than 3% menthol and 10% methyl salicylate. Few cases reported using a capsaicin-containing product.
Consumers using an OTC topical muscle and joint pain reliever who experience signs of skin injury where the product was applied, such as pain, swelling, or blistering of the skin, should stop using the product and seek medical attention immediately.
You should also be aware of these additional warnings if using these products:
  • When applying OTC topical muscle and joint pain relievers to the skin, do not bandage the area tightly and do not apply local heat (heating pads, lamps, hot water in bags or bottles) because doing so can increase the risk of serious burns.
  • Do not apply OTC topical muscle and joint pain relievers to wounds or damaged, broken, or irritated skin. Also do not allow contact with eyes and mucous membranes (such as the skin inside your nose, mouth, or genitals).
  • Talk to a health care professional if you have any questions or concerns about using OTC topical muscle and joint pain relievers.
  • Report side effects from the use of OTC topical muscle and joint pain relievers to the FDA MedWatch program, using the information in the "Contact FDA" box at the bottom of the page.

urmc researchers discover new "brain cleaning" system


U of R Scientists have discovered a system that drains waste products from the brain. The finding may reveal new ways to treat Alzheimer's Disease.

Our bodies remove dead blood cells and other waste through a network of vessels called the lymphatic system. The brain, however, has a different method of keeping clean. Cerebrospinal fluid cleanses brain tissue. But how the fluid moves through the brain and clears waste wasn't well understood. Until now, scientists could only study brain tissue in animals that were already dead. They thought nutrients and waste were transported through the slow process of diffusion.
In a new study, a research team led by Drs. Jeffrey Iliff and Maiken Nedergaard at the University of Rochester Medical Center used a method called 2-photon laser scanning microscopy to analyze the flow of cerebrospinal fluid in living mouse brains. This new technology allowed the scientists to study the intact brain in real time. They injected tracer molecules into the subarachnoid space, a cerebrospinal fluid-filled cavity between the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. Their work, funded in part by NIH's National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), appeared in the August 15, 2012, issue of Science Translational Medicine.
To their surprise, the scientists found that the tracer molecules flowed along a series of channels surrounding blood vessels. In the brain, blood vessels are surrounded by cells called astrocytes. These cells have projections called end feet that wrap around arteries and veins like a layer of piping. It was through this pipeline that the molecules traveled. The system uses pressure to push fluid through the brain. It's a much faster and more efficient way to carry away waste than diffusion.
Astrocytes are a type of glial cell—a class of cells that support neurons in the nervous system. The research team named this new system the “glymphatic system” because it is similar to the body's lymphatic system and is managed by the brain’s glial cells.
The scientists speculated that disruptions in the glymphatic system might lead to the buildup of harmful waste in the brain. In patients with Alzheimer's disease, a protein called amyloid beta accumulates in the brain and damages cells. The researchers injected amyloid beta into the brains of both healthy mice and mice genetically altered to disable their glymphatic system. Normal mice cleared the protein rapidly from brain tissue. Mice with faulty glymphatic systems had much slower protein removal.
“Increasing the activity of the glymphatic system might help prevent amyloid deposition from building up,” says Iliff, “or could offer a new way to clean out buildups of the material in established Alzheimer's disease.”
“This work shows that the brain is cleansing itself in a more organized way and on a much larger scale than has been realized previously,” Nedergaard says. “We're hopeful that these findings have implications for many conditions that involve the brain, such as traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer's disease, stroke and Parkinson's disease.”

U or R Plays Key Role in Cruise Ship Norovirus


Millions of cruise ship passengers may have U of R researchers to thank for an illness free voyage.

By Dave Harney
(TAH) - If you enjoy cruising you have no doubt worried about the infamous Norovirus, a virus that causes widespread illness and has spoiled many cruise vacations.  As such, it is sometimes called “the cruise ship virus.” It is also responsible for sending many college students to their campus medical clinics or, even worse, the hospital.
You may not have to worry much longer.  Dr. John Treanor, professor at the University of Rochester School of Medicine, and a widely recognized expert in influenza and vaccine research, reports that participants in a clinical trial showed 10- to 100-fold mean increases in antibodies against two norovirus subtypes. Further, these increases in antibodies lasted for a full 56 days.  The report, Safety and immunogenicity of an intramuscular bivalent norovirus VLP vaccine was delivered to the Interscience Conference on Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy in San Francisco.
Treanor and the clinical research team also reported the antibody responses to the vaccine were very good and that only a single dose might be sufficient to protect a person.  They said no severe or serious adverse events thought to be related to the vaccine were observed in the trial,  and that the most common side effects were moderate injection site pain and mild headache.
Noroviruses, which are a group of related viruses, spread easily.  Infection affects the stomach and intestines and causes an illness called gastroenteritis, which is inflammation of the stomach and intestines.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that each year more than 20 million cases of acute gastroenteritis are caused by noroviruses. That means about 1 in every 15 Americans will get a norovirus illness each year.  The virus is also estimated to cause over 70,000 hospitalizations and 800 deaths each year in the U.S.
Anyone can be infected with noroviruses and get sick. Also, you can get norovirus illness more than once during your life. The illness often begins suddenly. You may feel very sick, with stomach cramping, throwing up, or diarrhea.
The CDC says Norvirus are highly contagious and can be spread by:
·     Eating food or drinking liquids that are contaminated with norovirus
·     Touching surfaces or objects contaminated with norovirus and then putting your hand  or fingers in your mouth.
·     Having direct contact with a person who is infected with norovirus (for example, when caring for someone with norovirus or sharing foods or eating utensils with them).
One of the best ways to stop the spread of Norovirus is to practice good hand hygiene. Wash your hands carefully with soap and water, especially after using the toilet and changing diapers and always before eating or preparing food. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. These alcohol-based products can quickly reduce the number of germs on hands in some situations, but they are not a substitute for washing with soap and water.

Happy Cruising!

Thursday, September 13, 2012

Celebration of Life Fund-raiser for ECMC’s Trauma Intensive Care Unit (TICU)

Twenty years ago, a victim of a “hit and run” driver while bicycling, Mike Billoni survived a near-fatal accident on September 17, 1992. His life was saved in ECMC’s Trauma Intensive Care Unit. Mike and Debbie Billoni are hosting this event in recognition of ECMC’s life-saving services.

On Monday, September 17, 2012, Mike and Debbie Billoni will host a Celebration of Lifefund-raiser for the Erie County Medical Center (ECMC) Corporation Trauma Intensive Care Unit (TICU). The event will take place from 5:30 P.M. to 7:30 P.M. at Patriots and Heroes Park in front of Russell’s Steaks, Chops & More, at 6675 Transit Road, Williamsville, New York, 14221.

“Twenty years ago, a car hit my bike from behind and I flew into the windshield and shattered it,” said Michael J. Billoni, ECMC Trauma Patient, and Marketing and Public Relations Director for the Food Bank of Western New York. “When I got to ECMC, I went through 17 hours of trauma surgery. I learned that ECMC is an amazing place with a staff of incredibly caring, highly skilled doctors, nurses, and therapists. My surgeon, Dr. John LaDuca, performed miracles and constantly encouraged me. I received great care at the medical center for 44 days.”

Dr. John LaDuca is the Honorary Chairman of this Celebration of Life event.

Refreshments for the event will be donated by Russell J. Salvatore of Russell’s Steaks, Chops & More; Picasso’s Pizza; Charlie the Butcher; Charlie Ciotta and Wardynski's & Sons, Inc.; Try-it Distributing Premier Wines & Spirits; and Coca Cola Bottling Co. of Buffalo.

Entertainment will be provided by DJ Jickster of 97 Rock and Richie Derwald. Sound will be provided by AVAdvantage. Admission to this event is free, but donations to the ECMC TICU are encouraged. If unable to attend, donations may be made payable and sent to: ECMC Lifeline Foundation – “”Celebration,” 462 Grider Street, Suite G-1, Buffalo, NY 14215 or ecmclifeline.org. Attendees are asked to RSVP to 898-5800 or sgonzalez@ecmc.edu.

ABOUT ERIE COUNTY MEDICAL CENTER: The ECMC Corporation includes an advanced academic medical center (ECMC) with 550 inpatient beds and 136 skilled-nursing-home beds, on- and off-campus health centers, more than 30 outpatient specialty care clinics and a long-term care facility. ECMC is the regional center for trauma, burn care, transplantation and rehabilitation and is a major teaching facility for the University at Buffalo. Most ECMC physicians, dentists and pharmacists are dedicated faculty members of the university and/or members of a private practice plan. More Western New York residents are choosing ECMC for exceptional patient care and patient experiences—the difference between healthcare and true care.

ABOUT THE ECMC LIFELINE FOUNDATION: The ECMC Lifeline Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation that helps obtain the resources necessary to support the lifesaving medical services of ECMC, which is also a leading center for rehabilitation, transplantation, orthopaedic care, and many other medical specialties.

HEALTHeLINK TO ENHANCE EFFORTS TO KEEP PATIENT HEALTH INFORMATION SECURE

Receiving first implementation of certified tokens to validate physician identity

BUFFALO, NY – With patient health information becoming more and more accessible electronically, the protection of patient health data is taking on greater importance. While HEALTHeLINK already uses state-of-the-art security features that include multiple levels of password protection to ensure authorized user access as well as restricted access, the region’s clinical information exchange is enhancing its efforts to keep patient health information secure.

In conjunction with Gemalto, the world leader in digital security and Equifax’s Anakam Identity Services, a leader in identity management, HEALTHeLINK is launching Open Authentication (OATH) certified tokens, a new secure platform which allows flexibility in authenticating participating physicians in accessing their patient health information securely and electronically, while ensuring patient health information is kept private and confidential.

“The OATH solution offers our physicians a highly secure method to access electronic health records even in locations where hospital or clinic policies forbid cell phones for text message delivery or mobile applications,” said Dan Porreca, executive director of HEALTHeLINK. “We have used Equifax/Anakam’s authentication services successfully for several years and this addition allows us to more fully meet the requirements for secure access to patient records and offers flexibility in how we manage that security.”

HEALTHeLINK’s community wide and cost-effective two factor authentication system provides trusted access to, a better record of who is accessing, and more secure online transactions for physicians accessing the private information of their patients. Once first factor authentication is entered, such as a user name and password, it triggers the second factor authentication, which is a one-time passcode delivered to the physician through an existing device such as a text message to cell phone or phone voice delivery. Once authenticated, the user is able to access the clinical information exchange.

OATH certified tokens meet recent federal guidelines for two-factor authentication and are a secure solution to accommodate situations in which physicians are unable to receive their one-time passwords through text messaging or interactive voice response. Physicians often face network coverage problems in hospitals and are unable to utilize a mobile device.

Unlike paper records, every time patient medical information is accessed through the HEALTHeLINK the user is logged with an electronic fingerprint. This access can be audited to ensure that patient health information is only being viewed by the physician(s) providing treatment.

“Keeping my patients’ medical and clinical information secure is of utmost importance when accessing their electronic medical records as well as obtaining lab reports and other information through HEALTHeLINK,” said David Ellis, MD, director, division telehealth/attending physician, Emergency Department, Erie County Medical Center and chief of emergency medicine, VA WNY Healthcare System. “As I regularly access my patients’ records from a number of different locations, including my office and at the hospital, it gives me peace of mind to have this added level of security if I’m in a setting that won’t allow me to receive authentication information on my mobile device.”

Thursday, September 6, 2012

Let's Get Moving


FREE Community Health Fair and Educational Symposium promotes
Good Health Habits and Wellness

BUFFALO, NEW YORK; September 6, 2012—The “Let’s Get Moving Community Health Fair and Educational Symposium” will take place on Saturday, September 15th, 2012, from 8:30 A.M. to 3:00 P.M., at the Buffalo Academy for the Visual and Performing Arts, 450 Masten Avenue at East Ferry. 

Of great concern to the partners in this initiative are statistical indicators that identify various areas in Buffalo as having some of the highest chronic disease rates in the State of New York.  Also notable is that African and Latino Americans are disproportionately representative in having these chronic conditions, making key goals of the conference to: empower individuals to take back their health; take control of their health habits; and improve daily nutritional choices. 

To achieve these goals, a plenary session, educational workshops, as well as traditional health exhibitions and nutritional demonstrations will be provided throughout the day.  Specific health procedures to be made available on-site during this health fair include: Mammographies in a Mobile Mammography Bus, as well as a blood drive to be conducted by UNYTS.  A children’s “Learn and Play” area, as well as adult and young adult fitness demonstrations will also be offered.  At the culmination of the health symposium, a mass line dance will be led by Jocelyn McEnitre-Guthrie from Body Sculpting and the YMCA.  This is a free event and lunch will be provided
Physicians to present during the symposium include: Jonathan Daniels, M.D.; Roberto O. Diaz Del Carpio, M.D.; John Fudyma, M.D.; George E. Matthews, M.D..; Theresa Rush, M.D..; Raul Vasquez, M.D.; and Willie Underwood, MD.

This program is co-chaired by Rita Hubbard-Robinson, from ECMC and Angela Blue from NYS AFL-CIO. “Through this effort, we hope to encourage people to have fun and be more active,” explained Rita Hubbard-Robinson, JD, Community Health Education and Outreach Director, ECMC Corp.  “So, Let’s Get Moving!” 

The 2012 “Let’s Get Moving Community Health Fair and Educational Symposium” premier sponsors are the Erie County Medical Center Corporation, 1199 SEIU, Blue Cross Blue Shield and Independent Health. 

Event planning committee members and partners include: The American Diabetes Association, Erie County Medical Center (ECMC) Corporation, Grupo Ministerial, Healthcare Education Project, Kaleida Health, Masten Block Club Coalition, NYS AFLO-CIO – Buffalo WNY Labor Council for Latin American Advancement & Coalition Black Trade Unionists, P2 Collaborative of WNY/WNY Health Equity Coalition, Public Policy and Education Fund and UNYTS.  This committee convened to develop a community based approach to teaching the public about health, public health, mental health, fitness and nutrition. 

ABOUT ERIE COUNTY MEDICAL CENTER: The ECMC Corporation includes an advanced academic medical center (ECMC) with 550 inpatient beds and 136 skilled-nursing-home beds, on- and off-campus health centers, more than 30 outpatient specialty care clinics and a long-term care facility.  ECMC is the regional center for trauma, burn care, transplantation and rehabilitation and is a major teaching facility for the University at Buffalo.  Most ECMC physicians, dentists and pharmacists are dedicated faculty members of the university and/or members of a private practice plan.  More Western New York residents are choosing ECMC for exceptional patient care and patient experiences—the difference between healthcare and true care. 

NFL Donates to NIH for Medical Research

The national football league donates $30 million to NIH to Support Medical Research



The National Football League (NFL) has agreed to donate $30 million in support of research on serious medical conditions prominent in athletes and relevant to the general population.

This is the largest philanthropic gift the NFL has given in the league's 92-year history.

With this contribution, the NFL becomes the founding donor to a new Sports and Health Research Program, which will be conducted in collaboration with institutes and centers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Specific plans for the research to be undertaken remain to be developed, but potential areas under discussion include: chronic traumatic encephalopathy; concussion; understanding the potential relationship between traumatic brain injury and late life neurodegenerative disorders, especially Alzheimer's disease; chronic degenerative joint disease; the transition from acute to chronic pain; sudden cardiac arrest in young athletes; and heat and hydration-related illness and injury. The FNIH hopes to welcome other donors, including additional sports organizations, to the collaboration.

"We are looking forward to working with the NFL and other organizations to conduct research on a host of medical conditions affecting athletes," Dr. Story Landis, director of NIH's National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, said. "Findings from this research will provide us with better ways to detect, diagnose and treat these conditions, and in some cases, even prevent their occurrence."

"We hope this grant will help accelerate the medical community's pursuit of pioneering research to enhance the health of athletes past, present and future," said Roger Goodell, NFL commissioner. " This research will extend beyond the NFL playing field and benefit athletes at all levels and others, including members of our military."

CDC Report on High Blood Pressure


high blood pressure is out of control for too many americans

CDC SAYS SERIOUS HEALTH RISK NEEDS MORE ATTENTION AT EVERY HEALTHCARE VISIT

The majority of people with high blood pressure are being treated with medicine and have seen a doctor at least twice in the past year, yet their condition is still not under control, according to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Millions more are either aware they have high blood pressure but aren’t getting treated with medicine or don’t even know they have it, the report says.

Nearly 1 in 3 American adults (67 million) has high blood pressure, and more than half
(36 million) don’t have it under control, according to the report.

“We have to roll up our sleeves and make blood pressure control a priority every day, with every patient, at every doctor’s visit,” said CDC Director Thomas R. Frieden, M.D., M.P.H. “With increased focus and collaboration among patients, health care providers and health care systems, we can help 10 million Americans’ blood pressure come into control in the next five years.”

High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke, the first and fourth leading causes of death in the United States, leading to nearly 1,000 deaths a day.

High blood pressure is defined as blood pressure greater than or equal to 140/90 mm- Hg. High blood pressure’s direct health care cost is almost $131 billion annually.

Pharmacists, nurses, dietitians, and community health workers can support doctors in identifying and treating patients with high blood pressure. This team-based approach is a way to provide patient support and follow-up care, manage medicines, and help patients stick to a blood pressure control plan. In addition, patients should be counseled to make important lifestyle changes that affect blood pressure, including eating a healthy, low sodium diet, exercising, maintaining a healthy weight and not smoking.

Key facts about those affected:
About 67 million adults have high blood pressure.
More than half (36 million) have uncontrolled high blood pressure.
Nearly 22 million know they have high blood pressure, but don’t have it under control.
16 million take medicine, but still don’t have their blood pressure under control.

To learn more about blood pressure, visit www.cdc.gov/bloodpressure/. For more information on heart disease and stroke, visit http://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease