Dr. Charles Soparkar’s research has resulted in a patent-pending dietary supplement combining zinc and phytase (trademarked as ZYTAZE™) to be available to patients as early as this month. Forty-one of the 44 patients who took the oral supplements prior to botulinum toxin injections (Botox®, Dysport®, or Myobloc®) showed improved results. Many of the patients in the study were being treated for a rare form of eyelid spasm called blepharospasm and had previously responded poorly to botulinum toxin injections.

Soparkar’s research team will present the effect of dietary zinc supplementation on botulinum toxin treatments at the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery’s 41st Annual Fall Scientific Symposium on Oct. 14 in Chicago.

“Surprisingly, the results showed that in over ninety percent of the patients studied, the zinc/phytase combination resulted in a remarkable improved responsiveness to treatment of blepharospasm using the same amount of botulinum toxin as previously used,” said Soparkar, M.D., Ph.D., an oculoplastic surgeon at The Methodist Hospital. “The toxins seemed to have greater effect and last longer. Potentially, this could mean using less toxin, offering patients financial savings, greater safety, and more consistent results.”

Physicians began using botulinum toxin for blepharospasm in the 1980s. Today, Botox®, the first FDA approved botulinum toxin, is commonly used for cosmetic purposes as well as the treatment of many medical conditions.

ZYTAZE is licensed to OCuSOFT, Inc., a com¬pany dedicated to ophthalmic research, development and patient care, and will be available as a prescription supplement.

This research is the result of an on-going collaboration between Methodist’s Department of Ophthalmology and Texas Children’s Hospital’s Division of Plastic Surgery.

Study Details

In a modified double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover pilot study, Soparkar’s team compared the effectiveness of BTX injections (Botox®, Myobloc®, or Dysport®) with either zinc citrate 50 mg plus phytase 3,000 PU, zinc gluconate 10 mg, or placebo supplementation in individuals being treated for blepharospasm, hemifacial spasm, and cosmetic wrinkles. Duration of effect was compared to each participant’s established pre-study treatment interval, and efficacy was participant-graded using participants’ experience prior to study inclusion as a baseline. Descriptive statistical analysis determined mean duration and effect rating for each supplementation group, and 95 percent confidence intervals (CI) were calculated to determine statistical significance.

source:  http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/199650.php

Together, Daniel and his mother planned this meal of spaghetti, salad, and bread. He has already mastered muffins and mashed potatoes. Tonight, with a little help from his grown-up assistant, he is making a meal. Daniel has spent the last half-hour measuring spices, washing lettuce, reading labels, and drizzling olive oil on a loaf of bread.

Dinner may have taken a few extra minutes to get on the table, but Daniel, a second grader, is learning a skill many adults haven’t mastered: how to cook a healthy meal.

What Kids Learn in the Kitchen

Certainly, it is easier and faster to do it yourself. So why encourage your school-age child to join you in the kitchen? Because the lessons learned there can be a benefit both at home and in the classroom.

Cooking teaches kids about eating well.

Kids are usually receptive to conversations about nutrition. Planning a menu can become an opportunity to explain smart food choices. Take the time to discuss the different food groups and encourage your kids to experiment with foods they might not otherwise try. Kids who have a hand in making the vegetables might be a little more willing to sample them at the table.

Sharing food means sharing memories and good conversation.

Grandma’s secret zucchini bread recipe can be your chance to pass on a little bit of family lore. Did you love peanut butter and banana sandwiches when you were 7? Tell your child about the kind of foods you liked as a kid. The kitchen is also a place to ask thought-provoking questions like: To make a really colorful dinner, which foods would you include?

Cooking can also foster responsibility.

Kids start out learning to follow recipe directions and then they learn to clean up after themselves when the project is completed. Learning how to safely handle kitchen equipment is an important part of learning to cook. Kids need safety reminders and help with following the steps in a recipe, but they can learn to clean up spills as they happen and to put things back where they belong.

Your kitchen is a learning lab.

As kids learn to crack eggs and stir sauce, they also gain new science, language, and math skills. Basic math skills (“are we putting in more salt or baking soda?”) and sequencing skills (“what is first…next…last?”) give way to fractions (“is this ¾ of a cup?”) as your child gains confidence in the kitchen. Reading recipes can improve reading comprehension, and something as simple as salt sprinkled on an ice cube demonstrates basic science principles.

What Can Younger Kids Do?

By the time kids are in elementary school, they have the coordination to complete a lot of simple kitchen tasks, such as:

• mashing potatoes or bananas
• peeling apples (use a safe peeler instead of a knife)
• sifting and stirring ingredients
• spooning batter into a pan or muffin tin
• kneading dough
• rolling cookie dough
• using cookie cutters
• spreading on toppings, such as grated cheese

Working together in the kitchen can be a great way for siblings to connect, though having more than one child to manage can make it a little more challenging for parents. Try to give each child an equal number of fun tasks, and encourage patience, cooperation, and teamwork. For instance, if the kids like cracking eggs, tell them how many you need and let them divide them equally. If there’s an extra, you get to crack it.

For true beginners, a good way to start might be with breakfast. On a morning when no one is in a hurry, make something simple that you know your child likes. Pick a recipe with no more than five ingredients, like French toast, pancakes, eggs, or muffins.

It pays to do a little prep work before you start. Set up a sturdy stool or chair where your child can stand and reach the counter. Set out the recipe and ingredients you will need, the measuring cups and spoons. It’s always a good idea to have extra ingredients on hand, just in case of a mishap.

What Can Older Kids Do?

Older school-age kids are probably ready for a challenge. Let them take the lead on choosing and preparing a more involved dish, starting with making the grocery list.

Be the assistant in the kitchen when needed, and supervise if your child needs a lesson in using any unfamiliar cooking equipment. Closely monitor or take over any work that requires the stove, oven, or knives. And don’t forget to shower the chef with compliments when you taste the finished product. After creating one dish solo, your child might want to take on an entire meal or some other challenge, such as doubling a recipe or cutting it in half.

Managing the Mess

Whenever you have kids in the kitchen, you’re inviting some extra mess. Some parents will be comfortable with a little disorder. Others will feel their blood pressure rising with each little spill. You’ll take the fun out of it if your child is overly fearful of making a mistake. But it’s reasonable to set some ground rules. Let kids know that spills will happen, but that it’s not OK to be careless and messy on purpose.

Parents also need to find their own comfort zone with regard to how much experimenting they’ll allow. Would you let your child veer away from the recipe or take charge of a step that could doom the dish? Strive to make the experience a bit of an adventure, but you don’t have to overdo it. You can satisfy kids’ curiosity in simple ways — just by letting them taste the difference between salt and flour or by comparing the scents of vanilla, cinnamon, and ginger.

Your Budding Chef?

A child who shows a real interest in cooking might be ready to tackle more advanced cooking techniques. It takes practice to garnish, drizzle, and zest, but learning these skills will be fun for a kid with culinary interests.

If your child wants more expertise than you can provide, consider cookbooks, DVDs, and cooking classes for kids. Who knows — you could be raising the next Julia Child or Emeril Lagasse!

source:   http://kidshealth.org/parent/nutrition_fit/nutrition/kids_kitchen.html#

Sometimes

Teens are one of the groups most at risk for contracting STDs. You can help your kids stay safe by talking to them and sharing some important information about STDs and prevention. Before you tackle this sensitive subject, however, it’s important to make sure you not only know what to say, but how and when to say it.

Timing Is Everything

It’s never too late to talk to your kids about STDs, even if they’re already teens. A late talk is better than no talk at all. But the best time to start having these discussions is some time during the preteen years.

Of course, the exact age varies from child to child: Some kids are more aware of sex at age 9 than others are at age 11. You’ll need to read your child’s cues.

No matter how old your child is, if he or she starts having questions about sex, it’s a good time to talk about STDs.

Questions are a good starting point for a discussion. When kids are curious, they’re more open to hearing what their parents have to say.

But not all kids ask their parents questions about sex. One way to initiate a discussion is to use a media cue, like a TV program or an article in the paper, and ask what your child thinks about it. Another way to talk to your daughter is to use the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine as a starting point for a conversation. The HPV vaccine is recommended for preteen girls, and has the best chance of protecting against infection if the series of shots is given before a female becomes sexually active.

The surest way to have a healthy dialogue is to establish lines of communication early on. If parents aren’t open to talking about sex or other personal subjects when their kids are young, kids will be a lot less likely to seek out mom and dad when they’re older and have questions.

Spend time talking with your kids from the beginning and it’ll be much easier later to broach topics like sex because they’ll feel more comfortable sharing thoughts with you.

Tips for Talking

To make talking about STDs a little easier for both you and your kids:

• Be informed. STDs can be a frightening and confusing subject, so it may help if you read up on STD transmission and prevention. You don’t want to add any misinformation and being familiar with the topic will make you feel more comfortable.
• Ask what your kids already know about STDs and what else they’d like to learn. Remember, though: Kids often already know more than you realize, although much of that information could be incorrect. Parents need to provide accurate information so their kids can make the right decisions and protect themselves.
• Ask what your kids think about sexual scenarios on TV and in movies and use those fictional situations as a lead into talking about safe sex and risky behavior.
• Encourage your kids to raise any fears or concerns they have.
• Make your kids feel that they’re in charge of this talk, not you, by getting their opinions on whatever you discuss. If you let their questions lead the way, you’ll have a much more productive talk than if you stick to an agenda.
• Explain that the only sure way to remain STD-free is to not have sex or intimate contact with anyone outside of a committed, monogamous relationship, such as marriage. However, those who are having sex should always use condoms to protect against STDs, even when using another method of birth control. Most condoms are made of latex, but for people who may have an allergic skin reaction to latex, both male and female condoms made of polyurethane are available.

Common Questions About STDs

Depending on what your kids have heard from friends and the media, their questions will probably be fairly straightforward, such as:

• What are STDS? An STD is a sexually transmitted disease.
• How does someone catch one? These infections and diseases are spread from one individual to another during anal, oral, or vaginal sex. They can also be spread when fingers or objects are used after touching genitals or body fluids.
• What do STDs do to a person’s body? The type of STD determines what kinds of symptoms, if any, someone has. Some STDs cause virtually no symptoms, whereas others can cause the person to have discharge from the vagina or penis, sores, or pain. If STDs are untreated, they can lead to damage to the internal organs and may cause long term health problems, like infertility or cancer.
• Are STDs curable or do you have them forever? Both chlamydia and gonorrhea can be cured with antibiotics, but some infections — like herpes or HIV — have no cure.
• Are people who catch STDs somehow bad? Getting an STD does not mean that someone is a bad person, just that they need to learn how to prevent future infections.
• Can you tell that someone has an STD just by looking at him or her? People often may not even know that they’re infected themselves. Although there may be visible signs around the genitals with certain kinds of STDS, like genital warts and herpes, most of the time, there is no way to look at someone and know that he or she has an STD.

Answering any of these questions or others as openly as possible is the best approach. It’s up to you to gently correct any misinformation your kids may have learned. And always answer questions honestly without being overly dramatic.

It can be tough, but try to avoid getting too emotional or preachy. You want your kids to know that you’re there to support and help, not condemn.

Finding Reliable Information

Communicating with your kids may not be simple, but it’s necessary. If you’re always available to talk, discussions will come easier. Literature from your doctor’s office or organizations like Planned Parenthood can provide answers.

Your child’s school can be an information resource. Find out when sexuality will be covered in health or science class and read the texts that will be taught. The PTA may even offer sessions about talking to teens where you can share tips and experiences with other parents.

And don’t shy away from discussing STDs or sex out of fear that talking will make kids want to have sex. Informed teens are not more likely to have sex, but if they do, they are more likely to practice safe sex.

If you try these tactics and still don’t feel comfortable talking about STDs, make sure your kids can talk to someone who will have accurate information: a doctor, counselor, teacher, or another family member.

Kids and teens need to know about STDs, and it’s better that they get the facts from someone trustworthy instead of discovering them on their own.

source:   http://kidshealth.org/parent/infections/std/talk_child_stds.html#

The first letter of the official name of a Chartreux cat encodes the year of its birth; all Chartreux born in the same year have official names beginning with the same letter. The code letters rotate through the alphabet each year, omitting the letters K, Q, W, X, Y, and Z. For example, a Chartreux born in 2002 would have an official name starting with the letter T.

There is a legend that the Chartreux are descended from cats brought to France by Carthusian monks to live in the order’s head monastery, the Grande Chartreuse, located in the Chartreuse Mountains north of the city of Grenoble (Siegal 1997:27). But in 1972, the Prior of the Grande Chartreuse denied that the monastery’s archives held any records of the monks’ use of any breed of cat resembling the Chartreux (Simonnet 1990:36–37). Legend also has it that the Chartreux’s ancestors were feral mountain cats from what is now Syria, brought back to France by returning Crusaders in the 13th century, many of whom entered the Carthusian monastic order.

The first documented mention of the breed was by the French naturalist Buffon in the 18th century. The breed was greatly diminished during the first World War and wild populations (Helgren 1997:100-103) were not seen after World War II. A concerted effort by European breeders kept the breed from extinction. The first Chartreux were brought to the U.S. in 1971 by Helen and John Gamon of La Jolla, California. In 1987, the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) advanced the Chartreux breed to championship status (Siegal 1997:27). There are fewer than two dozen active Chartreux breeders in North America as of 2007.

Historically famous Chartreux owners include the French novelist Colette and French general/president Charles de Gaulle.

Chartreux cats tend to be quiet, rarely making noises such as mewing or crying, and some are mute. They are quite observant and intelligent, with some Chartreux learning to operate radio on/off buttons and to open screen door latches. They take about two years to reach adulthood. Chartreux cats are playful cats well into their adult years; some can be taught to fetch small objects in the same manner as a dog. Chartreux are good with children and other animals. They are non-aggressive, affectionate, good travelers and generally very healthy. Chartreux tend to bond with one person in their household, preferring to be in their general vicinity (often following their favoured person from room to room), though they are still loving and affectionate to the other members of the household.

source:   http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chartreux

Nurses

Dr Anita Green and Dr Kay De-Vries studied more than 50 published papers, together with professional and Government guidance documents, official reports and media coverage, from 1996 to 2009.

They point out that the fact that the cannabis is usually obtained illegally can have consequences for those who choose to use it for its medicinal value and create real dilemmas for the nurses and other healthcare professionals who care for them. For example, it is vital that any drug use is recorded on the patient’s medical records for their own safety, but many patients may be unhappy for that to happen.

“Nurses are increasingly likely to deal with patients using medicinal cannabis and it is important that they put their personal views to one side and deal with the health consequences of that drug use” says Dr Green, a Nurse Consultant for the Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and Visiting Fellow at the University of Brighton.

“The literature on the medicinal use of cannabis repeatedly refers to changes that could improve people’s quality of life, like improved sleep, a better appetite and reduced depression, and these perceived benefits have led to greater usage.

“However, it also states that far more research is needed and it is very important that patients are fully aware of the legal consequences of taking cannabis, together with the physical and psychological effects it may have on them.

“Nurses and other healthcare professionals need to be well informed about the medicinal effects of cannabis and how this can interact with other medication the patient is being prescribed. It is also vital that the patient’s cannabis use is accurately documented in their records and that other professionals, such as pharmacists, doctors and substance misuse teams are brought in to provide advice, with their permission.”

Cannabis, which has been widely used as a herbal remedy since ancient times, was brought to Western Europe at the beginning of the 19th century by Napoleonic soldiers who had been fighting in North Africa.

Its medicinal use was advocated in European and American medical articles as far back as 1849, but was banned in the UK in 1928 after UK delegates at an international opium conference were persuaded that cannabis caused insanity.

“Our review shows that the general view of integrating cannabis derivative medications into mainstream medical use remains extremely cautious” says Dr Green. “Most of the research we studied indicated that there was a need for more clinical trials examining the optimal administration routes and dosing regimes.

“The aim of our study was to review the literature and to raise awareness of the questions and dilemmas facing the medical profession, specifically nurses, when it comes to caring for patients who use cannabis for medicinal reasons.

“We hope that the review which looked at the research published into the pharmacological qualities of cannabis and its use in palliative care, for example cancer, multiple sclerosis and motor neurone disease – will stimulate further debate.

“In the meantime, it is vital that nurses and other healthcare professionals act within the law and follow the guidance laid down by their professional organisations.”

The authors say that the review highlights the real dilemmas created for the medical profession by the medicinal use of cannabis.

“Nurses have a caring responsibility to maximise their patients’ quality of life, but should they also be reminding them that the medicinal use of cannabis remains illegal?” asks Dr Green. “Or should they respect the patient’s right to take the drug and just make sure that it does not conflict with any other treatment, such as prescribed medication?

“It is clear that further debate is essential and that nurses need ongoing support and guidance to help them tackle these thorny dilemmas and provide the best healthcare they can for their patients without compromising their professional integrity.”

source:  http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/199826.php

Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis. When transmitted through sexual contact, the bacteria can infect the urinary and reproductive organs.

The term chlamydia typically refers to the STD Chlamydia trachomatis, although two other types of this bacteria also can lead to illness: Chlamydia pneumoniae, which can be spread through coughing and sneezing, and Chlamydia psittaci, which birds can pass to humans. This article refers specifically to the STD.

Chlamydia can be treated with antibiotics but often causes no symptoms, so someone can be infected without even knowing it. Untreated chlamydial infections can lead to more serious health problems, such as infertility, so it’s important for sexually active teens to be screened for chlamydia at least yearly by a health care provider. It’s also important for them to take the precautions to prevent chlamydia, and if it’s suspected, to seek treatment as soon as possible.

Symptoms

In many cases, chlamydia causes only mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. So an infection can last for weeks or months before it is discovered.

In females, chlamydia symptoms can include:

• vaginal irritation
• vaginal discharge
• lower abdominal pain
• burning feeling with urination

Untreated chlamydia also can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can affect the vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. In some cases, PID has no symptoms but often causes abdominal or lower back pain, painful urination, pain during intercourse, bleeding between menstrual periods, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, or fever.

If chlamydia or PID infections go untreated in females, they can lead to scarring of the fallopian tubes, which can lead to other serious health problems such as chronic pelvic pain, infertility, or ectopic (tubal) pregnancy.

Just like in females, chlamydia may be completely without symptoms in males. When present in males, chlamydia symptoms can include discharge from the tip of the penis and a burning feeling during urination. Untreated infections can lead to epididymitis, an inflammation of the coiled tubes in the back of the testicles. This can result in testicular swelling, pain, and even infertility.

Contagiousness

Chlamydia is contagious. It can be transmitted through sexual contact, in semen and vaginal secretions.

Chlamydia does not spread through casual contact such as shaking hands or using the same toilet as someone who is infected. If someone is diagnosed with chlamydia, all of that person’s sexual partners need to be notified and treated with antibiotics, even if they don’t have any symptoms, so that they don’t develop any long-term complications or spread the infection to others.

Treatment

If detected early on, chlamydia can easily be treated with antibiotics and the symptoms alleviated within 7 to 10 days. If untreated, chlamydia can lead to serious complications that can appear months or even years after the person is infected.

The medications currently available effective treat chlamydia. However, once treated, a young person is encouraged to be screened for chlamydia again about 3 months after treatment. This is because up to 20% of young women are re-exposed to chlamydia and need to be treated again. The most common reason for exposure is a sexual partner who hasn’t been adequately treated.

The sexual partners of anyone who has or is suspected of having chlamydia or any other STD should be examined and treated. Those diagnosed with any STD should inform their partners as soon as possible so that they can be examined and treated, prevent complications, and avoid spreading the infections to others.

Prevention

Because chlamydia is spread through sexual contact, the best way to prevent it is to abstain from having sex. Sexual contact with more than one partner or with someone who has more than one partner increases the risk of contracting any STD.

Once sexual activity is part of a young person’s life, it is important to be screened yearly for chlamydia by a medical provider. This is important whether or not symptoms of an infection are present.

In addition, when properly and consistently used, condoms decrease the risk of STDs, including chlamydia. Latex condoms provide greater protection than natural-membrane condoms. The female condom, made of polyurethane, is also considered effective against STDs.

Although birth control pills offer no protection against STDs, they may provide some protection against PID by causing the body to create thicker cervical mucus, making it more difficult for bacteria to reach the upper genital tract.

Using douche can actually increase a female’s risk of contracting STDs because it can change the natural flora of the vagina and may flush bacteria higher into the genital tract.

A teen who is being treated for chlamydia also should be tested for other STDs, and should have time alone with the doctor to openly discuss issues like sexual activity. Not all teens will be comfortable talking with parents about these issues. But it’s important to encourage them to talk to a trusted adult who can provide the facts.

Getting Help

If your teen is thinking of becoming sexually active or already has started having sex, it’s important to talk about it. Make sure your teen knows how STDs can be spread (during anal, oral, or vaginal sex) and that they often don’t have symptoms, so a partner might have an STD without knowing it.

It can be difficult to talk about STDs, but just as with any other medical issue, teens need this information to stay safe and healthy. Provide the facts, and let your child know where you stand.

It’s also important that all teens have regular full physical exams — which can include screening for STDs. Your teen may want to see a gynecologist or a specialist in adolescent medicine to talk about sexual health issues. Community health organizations and sexual health centers in your area might be able to offer some guidance.

source:  http://kidshealth.org/parent/infections/std/chlamydia.html#

Standards were produced in 1984, and the breed gained championship status in the United Kingdom in the 1990s.

Burmillas are medium-sized with muscular bodies, round faces, short muzzles and tend to weigh between 8-10 lb. A burmilla’s eye color is usually green, although some cat societies accept blue (and yellow eyes are permitted in kittens). Black cats have eyeliner in black; other colours may have no lining or soft brown. The shape of their eyes are almond-shaped.

Coat length comes in three variants: The most common (standard) coat is the short-hair. This is a short, close-lying coat similar in appearance to the Burmese but with a softer, silkier feel. In addition there is a recessive longhair gene producing the Longhair Burmilla. These cats have a semi-longhair coat lying close to the skin, with a soft, silky feel and a large plumed tail. The Shorthair gene is dominant, and where a cat receives one of each, the appearance will be Shorthair. Two Longhair Burmillas mated together will always produce Longhair kittens, while Shorthair matings depend on whether the Longhair genes are carried by the Shorthair parents.

A third variant has been identified recently, that of the Plush. It is not professionally recognised as being separate from shorthair in judging; however, plush kittens have much denser fur which does not lie closely against the skin. How the plush coat variant is inherited is not known.

The Burmilla can have a variety of coat colours, including black, blue, brown, chocolate and lilac. Although red, cream and tortoishell (calico) varieties have been bred, these colours are not recognised by most judging bodies. In addition the undercoat is either Silver or Golden, depending on the colour in the Persian heritage. The Burmilla’s shading comes in three major coat patterns which relate to the depth of colour. These are Tipped, Shaded and Smoke. Tipped Burmillas have at least 3/4 of their fur in the underlying colour (Silver or Golden) and the remainder is a light dusting of “colour” over the top. In the case of Silvers, these cats appear almost white. Shaded Burmillas have 1/4 – 1/2 as their colour, and Smoke have almost all colour with only a faint pale base to each hair. The cats have nose leather which is red to pink (smoke cats have solid colour corresponding to their coat). In addition their paw pads correspond to the coat colouring: Black cats have black paw pads, Chocolate have brown-black, Brown cats have brown, both Blue and Lilac have pink.

Theoretically, genetic Caramel Burmillas also exist, being black-based with the “caramelising” gene. Although cats have been bred that have a definite Caramel appearance distinct from Lilacs, Caramel is not generally recognised, and there is some argument as to whether the caramelising gene even genetically exists. Since the Burmilla inherits its colour ranges from two different breeds, there is also the possibility of the entire Burmese spectrum of colours (black/bombay, sable/brown, chocolate, champagne, cinnamon, taupe etc). However, since the Burmilla has a shaded coat pattern, it is far more difficult to identify the various subtle shades of Burmese colouring, that also appear to be recessive to the Persian colouring. For this reason only Chocolate (from the Burmese “sable” or “brown”) is recognised by most bodies.

The Burmilla was originally created accidentally in the United Kingdom. Two cats, a Chinchilla Persian named Sanquist, and a lilac Burmese named Faberge, were both awaiting a partner of their own breed in different rooms. Accidentally, one night the cleaner left the door open and the rest is history. The results, four kittens born in 1981, were so adorable that a new breed was born.

The Burmilla is quite an irreverent and independent cat who adores its owner and displays many kitten-like characteristics even into adulthood. In temperament they are sociable, playful, and affectionate, and get along well with children and other animals.

In GCCF (Governing Council of the Cat Fancy), the Burmilla is considered part of the Asian cat breed. It is accepted in FIFe as the Burmilla. Some governing bodies have used the name Australian Tiffanie, however, there is not international acceptance and standardisation for this breed – Tiffany has been used to describe many different breeds having the appearance from Ragdoll to Birman and may contain any of these breeds and more. Many Australian Tiffanies in Australia contain more than three-quarters Persian Chinchilla and retain the appearance and temperament of the Old Fashioned Chincilla. The name’s use is declining in favour due to the lax standards for the breed name, the lack of unique identity and varied genetic makeup.

The Burmilla is also featured in the online text-based game Legend of the Green Dragon; Crazy Audrey’s kittens are all Burmillas.

source:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burmilla

Researchers

The discovery could lead to development of a simple dietary remedy for many of the more than 23 million Americans suffering from diabetes and other conditions.

Writing in the advance online edition of the September 3 issue of the journal Cell, Jerrold Olefsky, MD, and colleagues identified a key receptor on macrophages abundantly found in obese body fat. Obesity and diabetes are closely correlated. The scientists say omega-3 fatty acids activate this macrophage receptor, resulting in broad anti-inflammatory effects and improved systemic insulin sensitivity.

Macrophages are specialized white blood cells that engulf and digest cellular debris and pathogens. Part of this immune system response involves the macrophages secreting cytokines and other proteins that cause inflammation, a method for destroying cells and objects perceived to be harmful. Obese fat tissue contains lots of these macrophages producing lots of cytokines. The result can be chronic inflammation and rising insulin resistance in neighboring cells over-exposed to cytokines. Insulin resistance is the physical condition in which the natural hormone insulin becomes less effective at regulating blood sugar levels in the body, leading to myriad and often severe health problems, most notably type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Olefsky and colleagues looked at cellular receptors known to respond to fatty acids. They eventually narrowed their focus to a G-protein receptor called GPR120, one of a family of signaling molecules involved in numerous cellular functions. The GPR120 receptor is found only on pro-inflammatory macrophages in mature fat cells. When the receptor is turned off, the macrophage produces inflammatory effects. But exposed to omega-3 fatty acids, specifically docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), the GPR120 receptor is activated and generates a strong anti-inflammatory effect.

“It’s just an incredibly potent effect,” said Olefsky, a professor of medicine and associate dean of scientific affairs for the UC San Diego School of Medicine. “The omega-3 fatty acids switch on the receptor, killing the inflammatory response.”

The scientists conducted their research using cell cultures and mice, some of the latter genetically modified to lack the GPR120 receptor. All of the mice were fed a high-fat diet with or without omega-3 fatty acid supplementation. The supplementation treatment inhibited inflammation and enhanced insulin sensitivity in ordinary obese mice, but had no effect in GPR120 knockout mice. A chemical agonist of omega-3 fatty acids produced similar results.

“This is nature at work,” said Olefsky. “The receptor evolved to respond to a natural product – omega-3 fatty acids – so that the inflammatory process can be controlled. Our work shows how fish oils safely do this, and suggests a possible way to treating the serious problems of inflammation in obesity and in conditions like diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease through simple dietary supplementation.”

However, Olefsky said more research is required. For example, it remains unclear how much fish oil constitutes a safe, effective dose. High consumption of fish oil has been linked to increased risk of bleeding and stroke in some people.

Should fish oils prove impractical as a therapeutic agent, Olefsky said the identification of the GPR120 receptor means researchers can work toward developing an alternative drug that mimics the actions of DHA and EPA and provides the same anti-inflammatory effects.

source:  http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/199867.php

Ascariasis

Signs and Symptoms

Although no symptoms may occur, the greater the number of worms involved in the infestation, the more severe a child’s symptoms are likely to be. Kids are more likely than adults to develop gastrointestinal symptoms because they have smaller intestines and are at greater risk of developing intestinal obstruction.

Symptoms seen with mild infestation include:

• worms in stool
• coughing up worms
• loss of appetite
• fever
• wheezing

More severe infestations can result in more serious signs and symptoms, including:

• vomiting
• shortness of breath
• abdominal distention (swelling of the abdomen)
• severe stomach or abdominal pain
• intestinal blockage
• biliary tract blockage (includes the liver and gallbladder)

Description

Ascariasis occurs when worm eggs of the parasite Ascaris lumbricoides commonly found in soil and human feces are ingested. The eggs can be transmitted from contaminated food, drink, or soil. The roundworms range in size from 5.9 to 9.8 inches for adult males and 9.8 to 13.8 inches for adult females. The worms can grow to be as thick as a pencil and can live for 1 to 2 years.

Ascariasis is frequently found in developing countries where sanitary conditions are poor or in areas where human feces are used as fertilizer. When the eggs are swallowed and passed into the intestine, they hatch into larvae. The larvae then begin to move through the body.

Once they get through the intestinal wall, the larvae travel from the liver to the lungs through the bloodstream. During this stage, pulmonary symptoms such as coughing (even coughing up worms) may occur. In the lungs, the larvae climb up through the bronchial tubes to the throat, where they are swallowed. The larvae then return to the small intestine where they grow, mature, mate, and lay eggs. The worms reach maturity about 2 months after an egg is ingested from the soil.

Adult worms live and remain in the small intestine. A female worm can produce up to 240,000 eggs in a day, which are then discharged into the feces and incubate in the soil for weeks. Children are particularly susceptible to ascariasis because they tend to put things in their mouths, including dirt, and they often have poorer hygiene habits than adults.

Ascariasis is common in warmer or tropical climates, particularly in developing nations, where it can affect large segments of the population. Ascariasis is rare in the United States, due to strict sanitation rules and regulations.

Contagiousness

Ascariasis is not spread directly from one person to another. To become infected, an individual has to consume the worm’s eggs.

Prevention

The most important measure of protection against ascariasis is the safe and sanitary disposal of human waste, which can transmit eggs. Areas of the world that use human feces as fertilizer must thoroughly cook all foods or clean them with a proper iodine solution (particularly fruits and vegetables).

Children who are adopted from developing nations are frequently screened for worms as a precautionary measure. Kids who live in underdeveloped areas of the world may be prescribed a preventive deworming medication.

These practices are recommended for all children:

• Try as much as possible to keep kids from putting things in their mouths.
• Teach kids to wash hands thoroughly and frequently, especially after using the bathroom and before eating.

Professional Treatment

The doctor will usually prescribe antiparasitic medication to be taken orally to kill the intestinal roundworms. Sometimes the stool will be re-examined about 3 weeks after treatment to check for eggs and worms. Symptoms usually disappear within 1 week of starting treatment.

Very rarely, surgical removal of the worms may be necessary (particularly in cases of intestinal or liver-related obstruction, or abdominal infection). A child who has ascariasis should be evaluated for other intestinal parasites, such as pinworm.

Home Treatment

If your child has ascariasis, the medication prescribed should be administered accordingly. To prevent reinfection:

• Ensure that your child washes his or her hands properly, particularly after using the bathroom and before eating.
• Have your pets checked for worms regularly.
• Keep your child’s fingernails short and clean.
• Sterilize any contaminated clothing, pajamas, and bedding.
• Evaluate the source of the infection. Additional sanitation measures in or around your home may be necessary.

When to Call the Doctor

If your child has any of the symptoms of ascariasis, contact your doctor right away. Stool samples will be sent to a laboratory to check for eggs and worms and confirm the diagnosis.

Call the doctor if symptoms do not improve with treatment or if new symptoms occur.

source:  http://kidshealth.org/parent/infections/stomach/ascariasis.html#

Fidaxomicin abstracts and speakers include:

“Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) of Fidaxomicin (FDX) Versus Vancomycin (VAN) in Treatment of Recurrent Clostridium difficile Infection (CDI)”

Oral Presentation: Oliver Cornely, M.D.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010 9:00 am – 9:15 am Eastern Time

Presentation number: L1-1305 in 253A

“Clostridium difficile Strain Type as Determined by Restriction Endonuclease Analysis (REA) Typing in Two Phase III Trials of Fidaxomicin vs Vancoymcin: Treatment Outcome for the Epidemic BI/NAP1/027 Strain”

Oral Presentation: Dale N. Gerding, M.D.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010 9:15 am – 9:30 am Eastern Time

Presentation number: L1-1306 in 253A

“Correlation of the ATLAS Bedside Scoring System And Its Components With Cure and Recurrence of Clostridium difficile Infection (CDI)”

Poster Presentation: Mark A. Miller, M.D.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010 11:15 am – 1:15 pm Eastern Time

Presentation number: K-1692 in Exhibit Hall B1

“Use of Concomitant Antibiotics (CA) Has a Deleterious Effect on Outcomes During Treatment for Clostridium difficile Infection (CDI)”

Poster Presentation: Kate Mullane, M.D.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010 11:15 am – 1:15 pm Eastern Time

Presentation number: K-1695 in Exhibit Hall B1

“Comparative Susceptibilities of Fidaxomicin (OPT-80) of Isolates Collected at Baseline, Recurrence and Failure from Patients in a Phase III trial (004) of C difficile infection (CDI)”.

Poster Presentation: Ellie J. Goldstein, M.D.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010 11:15 am – 1:15 pm Eastern Time

Presentation number: K-1691 in Exhibit Hall B1

Source: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/199868.php