Monday, May 30, 2011
EHEC death count 31.05.2011 15 people in Germany 1 death in Sweden
The deads from the terrible EHEC disease EHEC are 31.05.2011 15 people in Germany 1 death in Sweden
Sunday, May 29, 2011
EHEC in Denmark-Sweden 29.05.2011
EHEC in Denmark-Sweden 29.05.2011
In the 2 Countries there are 39 people ill by EHEC infection (29/05/2011).
In Denmark,there are a total of nine EHEC-infected patients and 4 of them are suffering from kidney failure.
In Sweden are 30 proven EHEC-Infected patients.
All patients before their disease were in Germany.
Thats why Sweden and Denmark advised the population to take special care when traveling in Germany.
Saturday, May 28, 2011
EHEC is spreading across Europe
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| EHEC bacterium a European problem |
Three cases are under investigation in France, 25 confirmed cases of EHEC infection in Sweden, 7 ill patients with EHEC are in Denmark, 3 in Great Britain, two in Austria, one in Switzerland and one in Denmark
EHEC still spreading!
On Thursday it was the first light at the end of the tunnel: authorities found the first source of the massive infection of enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC). At the same time, researchers could identify the exact type of pathogen.
It seemed that the peak of this disease would soon pass. Consumers are now avoiding certain foods, so the number of new cases would drop eventually. But the numbers still arise!! now its more than 1000 people ill from the EHEC infektion
But the toll does not fall in this case, and it seems spread further. The problem is simple: Between the time of infection and the first serious symptoms days can go by, in some cases more than a week.
eHEC in Sweden ?
A total of 25 Swedes have so far been infected with EHEC by the large outbreak in Germany. A dozen of them are seriously ill. Behind the outbreak stand cucumbers from Spain, but nothing indicates that they are imported to Sweden.
The hardest EHEC cases have suffered the most serious complication of hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) which may cause damage to blood vessels and kidneys. By lunchtime on Friday, a total of 25 suspected cases were reported; the Infectious Diseases Institute expects more people will suffer.
"It starts coming in more cases all the time so the figure changes as you go. The infection is spread throughout the country," says epidemiologist Sofie Ivarsson.
From: http://crofsblogs.typepad.com/h5n1/
EHEC Germany Stand 05/29/2011
iN GERMANY there are now more than 1,000 people in whom the cause of diarrhea EHEC is suspected or has already been demonstrated. At least nine people have died, more floating in critical condition. A summary providing details of Saturday:
- HAMBURG : At least 400 suspected cases and EHEC infections are known at least two people have already died. About 80 people are hospitalized because of severe HUS complication, the hemolytic-uremic syndrome , or treated on suspicion.
- Schleswig-Holstein: There are about 250 documented infections. At least three people came by the EHEC pathogens killed. The number of so-called HUS cases is with life-threatening diseases in over 70
- BRANCH: More than 140 confirmed illnesses and 50 EHEC suspected cases are known. At least three people died. The more severe complication of HUS are suffering now more than 40 people.
- England: At least 48 people are demonstrably ill with the virus. Including unconfirmed suspicions that there are 84 diseases. Caused by the EHEC-threatening kidney failure was reported in 15 cases.
- Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania : For more than 50 human pathogens, an infection with the diarrhea-diagnosed.
- HESSEN: At least 34 HUS cases were counted. - BREMEN : In Bremen and Bremerhaven are official data on Friday a total of 28 cases of HUS known for. With more than 50 people suspected EHEC. A woman in Bremen has been killed by the pathogen.
- Bavaria: Until Friday 23 EHEC infections have been reported, eight people were treated for HUS.
- BERLIN : 15 EHEC cases have until Friday confirmed were, of which suffer from 6 people to HUS. - Saxony-Anhalt: At least 11 cases have been identified. In 3 of the patients was the most dangerous HUS syndrome identified.
- BRANDENBURG : At least 4 people, the infection was confirmed . In addition, there are at least four suspected cases in two affected individuals suspected HUS.
- SAXONY: 6 EHEC patients are reported, none of them suffering from HUS.
- Baden-Württemberg: At least 5 people suffer from the severe HUS disease.
- SAAR: Until Saturday 5 EHEC cases have been reported, including 3 patients with HUS. In another Saarland patients suspected HUS.
- Thuringia: The number of confirmed cases of diarrheal diseases caused by EHEC is at least 5 Two people suffering from HUS, at 2 suspicion of EHEC infection.
- Rheinland-Pfalz: At least 2 people are infected, one of them fell ill and was in a clinic in Karlsruhe treated. According to a hospital spokeswoman on Saturday, there is no acute danger to life more.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
ehec infection first discovered in Germany may have spread to Sweden and Denmark.
Nordic authorities say that a potentially fatal bacterial ehec infection first discovered in Germany may have spread to Sweden and Denmark.
Α dozen people with hemolytic uremic syndrome have been hospitalized in Sweden in the past two weeks after travel to Germany. In Denmark, eight people are hospitalized with bacteria E.coli infection.
At least one of them has HUS — a rare complication arising from an initial infection commonly associated with E.coli, a bacterium found in undercooked beef or contaminated food.
Lab tests are establishing whether it's the same bacteria detected in Germany. Five deaths there have been linked to the bacteria and more than 200 infections reported in the last few days.
The Hamburg Institute for Hygiene and Environment said the German Ehec outbreak is linked to cucumbers from Spain.
Α dozen people with hemolytic uremic syndrome have been hospitalized in Sweden in the past two weeks after travel to Germany. In Denmark, eight people are hospitalized with bacteria E.coli infection.
At least one of them has HUS — a rare complication arising from an initial infection commonly associated with E.coli, a bacterium found in undercooked beef or contaminated food.
Lab tests are establishing whether it's the same bacteria detected in Germany. Five deaths there have been linked to the bacteria and more than 200 infections reported in the last few days.
The Hamburg Institute for Hygiene and Environment said the German Ehec outbreak is linked to cucumbers from Spain.
Supplement may prevent preeclampsia
A dietary supplement containing semi-amino acids and antioxidants may lower the likelihood of developing preeclampsia in high-risk pregnant women.
A team of Mexican and US researchers studied the effects of consuming supplements on about 700 pregnant women with a previous history of pregnancy complicated by preeclampsia or a close relative experiencing the disorder.
Preeclampsia, in which high blood pressure is developed and protein is found in the urine after the 20th week of pregnancy, affects 5 percent of the pregnancies.
Scientists suspect that low levels of L-arginine or antioxidant vitamins could play an important role in the development of preeclampsia and adopting a diet rich in these compounds or supplementations may lower the risk.
According to the findings published in BMJ Online First, only 13 percent of expectant mothers who eat bars rich in L-arginine and antioxidant vitamins experience preelampsia, while the condition is found in 23 percent of those taking only antioxidant vitamins and 30 percent of the placebo group.
Moreover, women taking amino acid L-arginine and antioxidant vitamins were less likely to give birth prematurely.
"We saw a very strong protective benefit for supplementation with L-arginine and antioxidant vitamins," said study researcher Felipe Vanilla-Ortega of Mexico's Universidad Nacional.
"Of course our findings need to be confirmed. But preeclampsia is a very dangerous condition, and this appears to be a very inexpensive approach for lowering risk in high-risk women," he added.
source press.tv SJM/PKH
Rinderpest cattle plague ( smallpox) eradicated
The World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) says Rinderpest or the cattle plague has been eradicated, saving millions of people from starvation.
"Today we witness a historical event as rinderpest is the first animal disease ever to be eradicated by humankind," OIE Director General Bernard Vallat said during the organization's annual gathering on Wednesday.
Known before the Roman era, Rinderpest affected humans by killing hundreds of millions of cattle in Europe, Africa and Asia caused by major famines.
One Rinderpest pandemic in Africa in the 19th century is estimated to have been responsible for the starvation of one-third of Ethiopians, Reuters reported.
"These animals are used for work but also for milk and meat,” said OIE Regional Representative for Africa Yacouba Samake. “If the disease hits the herd, all these high-quality proteins, you can forget them, it's a catastrophe."
According to OIE, the 198 countries with rinderpest-susceptible animals are now free of the disease with the support of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
A global campaign was triggered when imported animals in Belgium caused a Rinderpest outbreak in 1920 leading to the creation of the OIE in 1924.
The Global Rinderpest Eradication Program (GREP) was coordinated by the FAO in collaboration with the OIE and major donors such as the European Commission in the 1980s to ensure the full eradication of the disease.
source press.tv TE/MB
Heart universal polypill good and cheap but also with sideeffects
The prospect of a cheap universal polypill to prevent heart disease in middle-aged people has become less likely after the results of the first detailed study of its use showed it did cut heart risk but by less than originally envisaged, while the rate of side effects was higher than expected.
The study leader of the George Institute for Global Health in Sydney, said the results meant the universal heart pill would be more suited to people already at risk of heart disease than as a preventive measure for those who were healthy.
The all-in-one polypill combines components that lower blood pressure and cholesterol with blood-thinning aspirin at a cost of about $2 a month.
The study leader of the George Institute for Global Health in Sydney, said the results meant the universal heart pill would be more suited to people already at risk of heart disease than as a preventive measure for those who were healthy.
The all-in-one polypill combines components that lower blood pressure and cholesterol with blood-thinning aspirin at a cost of about $2 a month.
in the fisrt study of the cardio - polypill , 378 people in several countries took the combined pill or a placebo for 12 weeks, the first time its benefits and side-effects had been closely studied.
That scientific study found those taking the active drug reduced their blood pressure and cholesterol levels to a degree consistent with halving their risk of a heart attack or stroke.
But in relation with the klassic medicine were also 33 per cent more likely to stop the heart therapie because of side-effects including upset stomach and gastric bleeding, cough, dizziness or low blood pressure.
This meant the polypill would be more suited to people at elevated risk of heart disease because of their personal or family history, rather than being prescribing widely to people when they turned 55.
But in relation with the klassic medicine were also 33 per cent more likely to stop the heart therapie because of side-effects including upset stomach and gastric bleeding, cough, dizziness or low blood pressure.
This meant the polypill would be more suited to people at elevated risk of heart disease because of their personal or family history, rather than being prescribing widely to people when they turned 55.
Hepatitis in European Region who stats
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, most commonly caused by a viral infection. The five main hepatitis viruses are types A, B, C, D and E.
Hepatitis A and E are typically caused by ingestion of contaminated food or water. Hepatitis B, C and D usually occur as a result of parenteral (blood-to-blood) contact with infected body fluids (e.g. from blood transfusions or invasive medical procedures using contaminated equipment). Hepatitis B and C can also be transmitted through sexual contact.
Symptoms include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine, extreme fatigue, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Hepatitis infections can be asymptomatic, however, and hard to detect without proper testing.
Hepatitis B and C affect millions of people in the European Region. Worldwide 500 million people are estimated to be infected with hepatitis B or C. These viruses kill 1.5 million people a year; 1 in every 3 people has been exposed to either or both viruses and most infected people do not know about it.
The number of cases of hepatitis B and C reported in the WHO European Region does not necessarily reflect the full extent of transmission. A synthesis report on effective interventions to reduce hepatitis C infection from WHO/Europe’s Health Evidence Network (HEN) estimates prevalence up to 98% among injecting drug users.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control estimates:
Hepatitis A and E are typically caused by ingestion of contaminated food or water. Hepatitis B, C and D usually occur as a result of parenteral (blood-to-blood) contact with infected body fluids (e.g. from blood transfusions or invasive medical procedures using contaminated equipment). Hepatitis B and C can also be transmitted through sexual contact.
Symptoms include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine, extreme fatigue, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Hepatitis infections can be asymptomatic, however, and hard to detect without proper testing.
Hepatitis B and C affect millions of people in the European Region. Worldwide 500 million people are estimated to be infected with hepatitis B or C. These viruses kill 1.5 million people a year; 1 in every 3 people has been exposed to either or both viruses and most infected people do not know about it.
The number of cases of hepatitis B and C reported in the WHO European Region does not necessarily reflect the full extent of transmission. A synthesis report on effective interventions to reduce hepatitis C infection from WHO/Europe’s Health Evidence Network (HEN) estimates prevalence up to 98% among injecting drug users.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control estimates:
- an overall hepatitis B incidence of 1.49 per 100 000;
- a hepatitis C incidence of 8.7 per 100 000 in the Member States of the European Union (EU); and
- high prevalence in injecting drug users.
Pregnant Woman dies by a killer Unknown Virus in Korea
The Korean health authorities confirmed Thursday.that a second pregnant woman has died of acute pneumonia caused by an unidentified virus, She was the second death among the seven pregnant women who had been hospitalized at a Seoul hospital in April for infection with the unknown virus.
The 36-year-old woman first visited the hospital on April 21 with early flu symptoms and breathing difficulty and was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis.
She died less than a month after hospitalization.
Same happened to anotherpregnant woman in the nine-month who died on May 10.
the Helath departmend and the seoul hospital are still searching to find out the cause of the unidentified virus related pneumonia.
The 36-year-old woman first visited the hospital on April 21 with early flu symptoms and breathing difficulty and was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis.
She died less than a month after hospitalization.
Same happened to anotherpregnant woman in the nine-month who died on May 10.
the Helath departmend and the seoul hospital are still searching to find out the cause of the unidentified virus related pneumonia.
Ebola virus -transmission prevetion
Ebola virus infektion is a highly contagious disease, Ebola virus is transmitted by direct contact with the blood, stool, urin, secretions, organs or body fluids of infected persons.
Any direct contact with the body of a deceased person especially during burial ceremonies can accelerate the transmission of the virus. A WHO report also indicated that the Ebola-virus could easily be transmitted from dead chimpanzees, gorillas and forest antelopes to humans.
Against Ebola virus spread, the isolation strategy is key in containing the ebola virus within a limited area (quarantee). In health centers the Patients with suspected ebola virus infektion should be isolated from other patients. It is also important to trace and follow up any persons the suspected individuals might have come into direct contact with to prevent unknown consequential deaths. The right organisation of publik Health restriktions in epidemic ebola areas is vital agains the spreading of ebola virus.
No cure
It is important to remember that just like AIDS, the medical world has not found a cure for the Ebola virus yet. As such, prevention is not optional against cure in this case! Rather, it is a necessity for survival!.
Murray Valley encephalitis tree People died from mosquito bite in Australia
The NSW Department of Health said Murray Valley encephalitis could not be passed from animals to humans, but that mosquitoes which fed on infected water birds could transmit the disease to people.
Unlike other mosquito-borne illnesses, which are not typically fatal, such as Ross River fever, about 25 per cent of people who contract Murray Valley encephalitis die.
Symptoms include severe headaches, high fevers, tremors and seizures.
A 19-year-old tourist has died after contracting one of Australia's most rare mosquito-borne diseases while on holiday in the Northern Territory of Australia.
The Canadian woman touristin became the third person in the Northern Territory of Australia to contract Murray Valley encephalitis this year.
The Department of Health issued a warning advising people cover up to avoid being bitten,from Mosquitoes.
The woman became unwell when she arrived home from a holiday in the NT earlier this month and was admitted to hospital in Calgary, Alberta, where she died on Tuesday.
Unlike other mosquito-borne illnesses, which are not typically fatal, such as Ross River fever, about 25 per cent of people who contract Murray Valley encephalitis die.
Symptoms include severe headaches, high fevers, tremors and seizures.
A 19-year-old tourist has died after contracting one of Australia's most rare mosquito-borne diseases while on holiday in the Northern Territory of Australia.
The Canadian woman touristin became the third person in the Northern Territory of Australia to contract Murray Valley encephalitis this year.
The Department of Health issued a warning advising people cover up to avoid being bitten,from Mosquitoes.
The woman became unwell when she arrived home from a holiday in the NT earlier this month and was admitted to hospital in Calgary, Alberta, where she died on Tuesday.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Beet's Efficacy Equivalent to Gym Exercise
YOU do not have to exercise to the gym and jogging in tens of kilometers to keep the body stay fit. According to researchers from the University of Exeter and the Peninsula Medical School, the key to improve stamina is quite simple, just a bit with a glass of fruit juice.
Consumption of beet juice daily, according to researchers, can even help you exercise longer without feeling tired. In addition, a pint of beet juice a day effectively lowers blood pressure and improve health.
Beet juice, the researchers explained, showing a surprising result because the benefits exceed the regular exercise routine under the supervision of professional trainers. And although it's probably not able to satisfy your appetite, its impact can be felt by everyone, from athletes to retirees who do not even have enough energy to walk to the supermarket.
Oxygen
In this study, the researchers involved eight healthy young men to complete a series of cycling tests. They were asked to perform two cycling tests, after drinking beet juice once a day for 6 days and after drinking blackcurrant cordial (a drink made from a type of berry).
The study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology reported, after drinking beet juice, participants use less oxygen when prompted cycling with slow speed. This shows, bright researchers, if their muscles can do work in the same amount using less energy. When asked to cycling with distance according to the capability, participants can pedal a few minutes longer than the time before drinking the beet juice.
Nitrate effect
After drinking the beet juice, added the researcher, participants experienced a 16% increase stamina. That is, they are usually out of energy after jogging for 1 hour to get an extra 10 minutes. In addition, they can achieve the same distance in a faster time.
EHEC infektion 2011 germany
Several EHEC deaths in Germany reported
A deadly outbreak of the E. coli bacterium has claimed several victims in Germany, authorities confirmed Tuesday.
The deaths follow reports that at least 140 people had fallen ill after becoming infected over recent weeks.
Health officials said an 83-year-old woman from the northern state of Lower Saxony died Saturday after having suffered since May 15 with the bacteria.
There were two more deaths in which E. coli was a suspected cause. A young woman in the city-state of Bremen also died overnight Tuesday, but officials there were unable to immediately confirm the presence of E. coli in her system. They said, however, the woman had been exhibiting typical symptoms of E. coli infection.
Another woman over 80 years old in the northern state of Schleswig-Holstein died after being infected, although state health authorities said they have not yet confirmed that E. coli was the cause of death.
Widespread cases
The spread of the suspected infections has startled health officials, with two individuals in the central city of Frankfurt being placed on artificial respiration machines as the surge in the number of cases of Enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC), a new sub-strain, was reported across the country.
More than 40 of those confirmed to have contracted the infection, which can cause internal bleeding, diarrhea and kidney failure, and in some cases anemia, were said to be in a serious condition late Monday.
Some 40 people were being treated in Hamburg, with cases also reported in North Rhine-Westphalia and Schleswig Holstein states.
Eight patients in Dusseldorf were reported to be "seriously ill" by regional health officials.
Via Deutsche Welle: Deadly E. coli outbreak claims victims in Germany
Weiter EHEC Darmkrankheit in Germany
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Tuesday, May 24, 2011
EHEC Infektion in Germany
The german Health Authorities have reported until now the deaths of three people infected with a deadly strain of the Escherichia coli bacterium.
In the last two weeks it has registered more than 90 cases of potentially fatal haemolytic uraemic syndrome, caused by the multi-antibiotik resistand enterohemorrhagic E.coli (EHEC).
So far this year’s outbreak has affected mostly adult women. “Either this is because, statistically, women tend to prepare food more frequently or that we are dealing with an infected foodstuff that women eat more regularly than men.For example Women for diet reasons are eating raw Vegetablebles more Frequently than men.
The EHEC bacteria is found most commonly in cattle and can find its way into the food chain either through untreated milk and unpasteurised dairy products or not well waschend salad.
At first the infectionsof the EHEC disease were concentrated in northern Germany, but by yesterday the media were reporting of up to 400 cases, spread across the country.
Weiter EHEC Darmkrankheit in German Blog
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Wednesday, May 18, 2011
5 Ways a Diet That Is Harmful to Health
1. Low-Fat Diet
This diet aims to remove fat from the diet to lose weight. In fact, some fat is actually good for health, especially the type of fat in olive oil, fish oil, and avocados that have omega-3 fatty acids. In order to diet successfully, you should avoid trans fats such as oils used to fry several times. However, do not eliminate fat altogether. Because, the body will form a hard fat cycle is broken cause of obesity.
2. Diet Sugar
Dietary sugar and its variations are reserved for those who omit the sugar in the diet. Instead, people who use a regimen of diet sweeteners instead of sugar or low calorie candy to kill all kinds of appetite.
However, all foods 'sweet' above no nutritional value, plus preservatives that cause side effects to health. If you want to reduce sugar, a better alternative is to eat the sweet fruits such as apples, grapes, and melons.3. Mono Diet
The diet consists of eating one type of menu in a limited number of each meal, usually one of the following: buckwheat, tomatoes, wine, butter milk or watermelon. Diet with only one type of food makes the body lacks nutrition.
4. Diet Sleep
This diet recommends to increase the sleep time to reduce appetite. If so, you not only burn fewer calories, but harm the body. We recommend that you exercise to burn calories.
5. Low Carbohydrate Diet
Many diets that reduce and replace carbohydrates with protein intake, especially high fat meats. This diet will make you lack energy and tired more quickly. Instead of not eating carbs, it's better to replace the complex carbohydrates like brown rice and oatmeal.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Babesiosis in Immunocompetent Patients
We report 2 cases of babesiosis in immunocompetent patients in France. A severe influenza-like disease developed in both patients 2 weeks after they had been bitten by ticks. Diagnosis was obtained from blood smears, and Babesia divergens was identified by PCR in 1 case. Babesiosis in Europe occurs in healthy patients, not only in splenectomized patients.
Babesiosis, a tick-borne infectious disease that occurs worldwide, is caused by species of Babesia, an intraerythrocytic parasite (1). Babesia spp. parasites infect wild and domesticated animals and may cause a malaria-like syndrome.
The first human case was described in 1957 in a splenectomized Yugoslavian farmer who died (2). More than 100 Babesia species infect animals, but human infection has been associated with only a few species, mainly B. microti and B. divergens (1–3). B. microti parasites are transmitted by Ixodes scapularis ticks and infect rodents. Since 1957, these parasites have caused hundreds of human babesiosis cases in the United States, the most affected country. Infections are found mainly in healthy persons and manifest as asymptomatic or mild to moderate illness; severe disease, even in immunocompromised or elderly patients, is seldom reported (2,3). B. divergens parasites are endemic to Europe; they are transmitted by I. ricinus ticks and infect bovines (4). In Europe, the disease is rare in humans; ≈40 cases have been reported (2,3,5–7). These cases are almost exclusively severe in immunocompromised patients, especially those whose spleens have been removed (2,3,8). B. divergensparasites are responsible for >70% of these cases (2,8), although the disease is not always confirmed by molecular-based methods.
References
Homer MJ, Persing DH. Human babesiosis. In: Goodman JL, Dennis DT, Sonenshine DE, editors. Tick-borne diseases of humans. Washington: ASM Press; 2005. p. 343–60.
Vannier E, Krause PJ. Update on babesiosis. Interdiscip Perspect Infect Dis. 2009;9845–68.
Gelfand JA, Vannier E. Babesia species. In: Mandell GL, Bennett JE, Dolin R, editors. Principles and practice of infectious diseases, 7th ed, Philadelphia: Elsevier; 2010. p. 3539–45.
L'Hostis M, Dumon H, Dorchies B, Boisdron F, Gorenflot A. Large scale survey of bovine babesiosis due to Babesia divergens in France. Vet Rec. 1995;136:36–8. PubMed DOI
Hunfeld KP, Hildebrandt A, Gray JS. Babesiosis: recent insights into an ancient disease. Int J Parasitol. 2008;38:1219–37. PubMed DOI
Zintl A, Mulcahy G, Skerret HE, Taylor SM, Gray JS. Babesia divergens, a bovine blood parasite of veterinary and zoonotic importance. Clin Microbiol Rev. 2003;16:622–36. PubMed DOI
Gorenflot A, Moubri K, Precigout E, Carcy B, Schetters TP. Human babesiosis. Ann Trop Med Parasitol. 1998;92:489–501.
Meliani P, Khatibi S, Randazzo S, Gorenflot A, Marchou B. Human babesiosis. Med Mal Infect. 2006;36:499–504. PubMed DO
Multidrug resistant bacteria remain a public health issue in Europe
Multidrug resistant bacteria remain a public health issue in EuropeOn the occasion of the European Antibiotic Awareness Day, ECDC is releasing new European-wide surveillance data on antibiotic resistance from the European Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Network (EARS-Net). With annually up to 400,000 patients reported to suffer from infections resistant to multiple antibiotics, the data show that antibiotic resistance remains a public health problem across the European Union. In Klebsiella pneumoniae, a common cause of infection amongst hospital patients, an emerging trend is the proportion of resistance to powerful last-line antibiotics, such as carbapenems. Proportions of resistance range from less than 1% to more than 25%. Without effective last-line antibiotics, doctors face the dilemma of not having any treatment options left.
Speaking today at the launch event for European Antibiotic Awareness Day in the European Parliament, ECDC Director, Marc Sprenger, said:
“Antibiotic resistance remains a serious threat to patient safety, reducing options for treatment and increasing lengths of hospital stay, as well as patient morbidity and mortality. However the news is not all gloomy. European-wide surveillance data from EARS-Net – a network coordinated by ECDC – show that a significant number of countries have reported decreasing trends for MRSA for the second consecutive year. Notwithstanding, we are seeing increasing multi-drug resistance and the emergence of resistance to last-line antibiotics in European hospitals which we must take urgent action to address.”
The focus of this year’s European Antibiotic Awareness Day is promoting prudent antibiotic use in hospitals in order to turn the tide on antibiotic resistance. Whereas, up to 50% of antibiotic use in hospitals can be inappropriate [2],[3]. Prudent use means only using antibiotics when they are needed, with the correct dose, dosage intervals and duration of the course. Activities to promote prudent use of antibiotics are taking place in 36 different European countries, including all member states of the European Union. An EU-level launch event was organised today in the European Parliament to draw attention to the many national campaigns on prudent antibiotic use.
Marc Sprenger, ECDC Director, stressed: “ECDC has been involved in coordinating the European Antibiotic Awareness Day since 2008. We are very proud that 36 countries are joining efforts to mark this day. Campaigns to promote prudent antibiotic use across Europe are bringing some good results, as in the case of MRSA. We are also happy that this year the United States’ Get Smart About Antibiotics Week is being launched simultaneously during the week of 18 November in an effort to show global solidarity”.
About European Antibiotic Awareness Day
The European Antibiotic Awareness Day is a European health initiative which aims to provide a platform and support for national campaigns about prudent antibiotic use. Across Europe each year the European Antibiotic Awareness Day is marked by national campaigns on prudent antibiotic use during the week of 18 November. The focus of this year’s European Antibiotic Awareness Day is promoting prudent antibiotic use in hospitals. Prudent use means only using antibiotics when they are needed, with the correct dose, dosage intervals and duration of the course.
For more information, visit: http://antibiotic.ecdc.europa.eu
Links:
Further information on surveillance of antibiotic resistance can be accessed from the EARS-Net website
ECDC/EMEA Joint Technical Report: The bacterial challenge: time to react
United States Campaign - Get Smart: Know When Antibiotics Work
FDA approves Gardasil* for the prevention of anal cancer
FDA approves Gardasil* for the prevention of anal cancerThe U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the vaccine Gardasil for the prevention of anal cancer and associated precancerous lesions due to human papillomavirus (HPV) types 6, 11, 16, and 18 in people ages 9 through 26 years.
Gardasil is already approved for the same age population for the prevention of cervical, vulvar, and vaginal cancer and the associated precancerous lesions caused by HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18 in females. It is also approved for the prevention of genital warts caused by types 6 and 11 in both males and females.
“Treatment for anal cancer is challenging; the use of Gardasil as a method of prevention is important as it may result in fewer diagnoses and the subsequent surgery, radiation or chemotherapy that individuals need to endure,” said Karen Midthun, M.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research.
Although anal cancer is uncommon in the general population, the incidence is increasing. HPV is associated with approximately 90 percent of anal cancer. The American Cancer Society estimates that about 5,300 people are diagnosed with anal cancer each year in the United States, with more women diagnosed than men.
Gardasil’s ability to prevent anal cancer and the associated precancerous lesions [anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN) grades 1, 2, and 3] caused by anal HPV-16/18 infection was studied in a randomized, controlled trial of men who self-identified as having sex with men (MSM). This population was studied because it has the highest incidence of anal cancer. At the end of the study period, Gardasil was shown to be 78 percent effective in the prevention of HPV 16- and 18-related AIN. Because anal cancer is the same disease in both males and females, the effectiveness data was used to support the indication in females as well.
Gardasil will not prevent the development of anal precancerous lesions associated with HPV infections already present at the time of vaccination. For all of the indications for use approved by the FDA, Gardasil's full potential for benefit is obtained by those who are vaccinated prior to becoming infected with the HPV strains contained in the vaccine.
Individuals recommended for anal cancer screening by their health care provider should not discontinue screening after receiving Gardasil.
As of May 31, 2010, more than 65 million doses of Gardasil had been distributed worldwide, since its approval in 2006 according to the manufacturer, Merck and Co. Inc, of Whitehouse Station, N.J. The most commonly reported adverse events include fainting, pain at the injection site, headache, nausea, and fever. Fainting is common after injections and vaccinations, especially in adolescents. Falls after fainting may sometimes cause serious injuries, such as head injuries. This can be prevented by keeping the vaccinated person seated for up to 15 minutes after vaccination. This observation period is also recommended to watch for severe allergic reactions, which can occur after any immunization.
Flu shots and future mothers
Flu shots and future mothers It’s flu season and pregnant women are at an increased risk of becoming infected.
Dr. Indu Ahluwalia is an epidemiologist with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Influenza infection among pregnant women can result in severe illness and increased hospitalizations and even death.”
There is no special flu vaccine for pregnant women. “There are two forms of the vaccine available to the general public – the nasal spray and the flu shot – and the flu shot is what’s recommended for pregnant women.” It’s recommended that women get the flu vaccine anytime during their pregnancy. Flu season normally goes from August to March.
Flu Antiviral Drugs
What You Should Know about Flu Antiviral Drugs
By Alicia Fry, MD, MPH, Medical Officer, NCIRD, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
"Many people believe there is no treatment for a virus and you have to let it run its course. But when it comes to influenza (often called “the flu”), antiviral drugs can be used for prevention and treatment. While CDC recommends flu vaccination as the first and most important step in preventing flu, antiviral drugs are a second line of defense against the flu.
Flu antiviral drugs are prescription medications (pills, liquid, or an inhaled powder) that can be used to treat flu infection. CDC recommends two flu antiviral drugs this flu season—oseltamivir (Tamiflu®) and zanamivir (Relenza®).
Flu antiviral drugs are different from antibiotics and are not sold over-the-counter. You can only get them if you have a prescription from a doctor. While most people with the flu have mild illness and don’t need medical care or antiviral drugs, some people will greatly benefit from the use of antiviral drugs. Clinical judgment is the most important part of deciding if antiviral drugs are needed to treat flu infection.
Antiviral treatment is most effective when started as soon as possible, ideally within the first 2 days of flu symptoms. Antivirals can make you feel better and shorten the time you are sick by 1 or 2 days. They can also prevent serious complications caused by flu infection, such as pneumonia. Tamiflu® and Relenza® are usually taken for 5 days, although hospitalized flu patients may need the medicine for longer than 5 days.
Antiviral drugs are especially beneficial for people who are very sick with flu, such as people who are in the hospital, and people with flu who have a greater chance of serious complications. Those who may have a greater chance of serious flu complications include:
children younger than 2 years old,
adults 65 years and older,
pregnant women and women up to 2 weeks after giving birth,
people with chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, heart failure, chronic lung disease, and diabetes) and people with a weak immune system (due to illnesses such as HIV), and
people younger than 19 years of age who are receiving long-term aspirin therapy".
For more information about flu antiviral drugs, visit
http://www.flu.gov/individualfamily/prevention/medicine/index.html
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/antiviral_factsheet1011.pdf.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/antiviral.htm
By Alicia Fry, MD, MPH, Medical Officer, NCIRD, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)"Many people believe there is no treatment for a virus and you have to let it run its course. But when it comes to influenza (often called “the flu”), antiviral drugs can be used for prevention and treatment. While CDC recommends flu vaccination as the first and most important step in preventing flu, antiviral drugs are a second line of defense against the flu.
Flu antiviral drugs are prescription medications (pills, liquid, or an inhaled powder) that can be used to treat flu infection. CDC recommends two flu antiviral drugs this flu season—oseltamivir (Tamiflu®) and zanamivir (Relenza®).
Flu antiviral drugs are different from antibiotics and are not sold over-the-counter. You can only get them if you have a prescription from a doctor. While most people with the flu have mild illness and don’t need medical care or antiviral drugs, some people will greatly benefit from the use of antiviral drugs. Clinical judgment is the most important part of deciding if antiviral drugs are needed to treat flu infection.
Antiviral treatment is most effective when started as soon as possible, ideally within the first 2 days of flu symptoms. Antivirals can make you feel better and shorten the time you are sick by 1 or 2 days. They can also prevent serious complications caused by flu infection, such as pneumonia. Tamiflu® and Relenza® are usually taken for 5 days, although hospitalized flu patients may need the medicine for longer than 5 days.
Antiviral drugs are especially beneficial for people who are very sick with flu, such as people who are in the hospital, and people with flu who have a greater chance of serious complications. Those who may have a greater chance of serious flu complications include:
children younger than 2 years old,
adults 65 years and older,
pregnant women and women up to 2 weeks after giving birth,
people with chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, heart failure, chronic lung disease, and diabetes) and people with a weak immune system (due to illnesses such as HIV), and
people younger than 19 years of age who are receiving long-term aspirin therapy".
For more information about flu antiviral drugs, visit
http://www.flu.gov/individualfamily/prevention/medicine/index.html
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/antiviral_factsheet1011.pdf.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/antiviral.htm
Genetically modified fungi kill malaria-causing parasites in mosquitoes
Spraying malaria-transmitting mosquitoes with a genetically modified fungus can kill the malaria parasite without harming the mosquito, potentially reducing malaria transmission to humans, according to a new study published in the journal Science. Funded by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of the National Institutes of Health, the study was led by Raymond J. St. Leger, Ph.D., of the University of Maryland, College Park.
An estimated 225 million malaria cases occur worldwide annually, resulting in about 781,000 deaths each year, according to the World Health Organization. Although the disease is present in 106 countries around the world, most cases occur in sub-Saharan Africa. Treating bed nets and indoor walls with insecticides is the main prevention strategy in developing countries, but the Anopheles mosquitoes that transmit malaria are slowly becoming resistant to these insecticides, rendering them less effective.
"Because mosquitoes increasingly are evolving to evade the malaria control methods currently in use, NIAID-supported scientists are testing new, innovative ways to prevent malaria that we hope can be developed into tools that will be effective for years to come," says NIAID Director Anthony S. Fauci, M.D.
One of these new strategies is killing Anopheles mosquitoes by spraying them with the naturally occurring fungus, Metarhizium anisopliae. Previous studies have found that this method nearly eliminates disease transmission when mosquitoes are sprayed soon after acquiring the malaria parasite. However, this strategy is not sustainable in the long term. If treating mosquitoes with the fungus kills them before they have a chance to reproduce and pass on their susceptibility to the spray, mosquitoes resistant to the fungus, which would reproduce normally, will soon become predominant and the spray will no longer be effective.
Because of this, Dr. St. Leger and colleagues tried a more focused approach. Rather than developing fungi that rapidly kill the mosquito, they genetically modified M. anisopliae to block the development of the malaria parasite in the mosquito.
Eleven days after feeding on blood infected by the malaria parasite, mosquitoes were divided into three groups and either sprayed with naturally occurring M. anisopliae fungi, sprayed with genetically modified M. anisopliae fungi or not sprayed at all. Two weeks after exposing the mosquitoes to the malaria parasite, the researchers looked for the parasite on the salivary glands of mosquitoes in each of the three groups.
Compared with the other treatments, the modified M. anisopliae significantly reduced parasite development. The malaria parasite was found on the salivary glands of just 25 percent of the mosquitoes sprayed with the transgenic fungi, compared with 87 percent of those sprayed with the naturally occurring strain and 94 percent of unsprayed mosquitoes. The transgenic strain also reduced the density of parasites on the mosquitoes’ salivary glands by more than 95 percent compared with the unmodified strain.
"The genes added to the transgenic fungi prevent the parasite from binding to the salivary glands of mosquitoes, so when a mosquito bites a human, the parasite is not transmitted," explains Adriana Costero-Saint Denis, Ph.D., of NIAID's Vector Biology Program (http://www.niaid.nih.gov/topics/vector/Pages/Default.aspx).
The researchers then used a model to estimate how well each fungus strain would reduce malaria transmission, and found that compared with the wild-type strain, the transgenic strain could reduce transmission to humans by fivefold, if not more.
"Our principal aim now is to get this technology into the field," says Dr. St. Leger. "We also would like to test some additional fungal variants to make sure we have the optimized malaria-blocking pathogen," he adds. Although they do not expect this technology to affect the environment any differently than the wild-type strain, the study authors plan to test ways to contain the transgenic fungi in the field.
Smoking in Combination with Immunosuppression Poses Greater Risk for Transplant-Related Carcinoma
Spanish researchers have found that liver transplant recipients who quit smoking have a lower incidence of smoking-related malignancies (SRM) than patients who keep smoking. In fact, SRMs were identified in 13.5% of deceased patients and smoking was associated with a higher risk of malignancy in this study. Full findings are published in the April issue of Liver Transplantation, a journal of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases.
While smoking is a well-known malignancy risk factor both in the general population and in liver transplant recipients, smoking in combination with immunosuppression is presumed to be the main risk factor for transplant-related carcinomas.
Several authors have suggested that a longer duration of immunosuppressive treatment or a stronger immunosuppression could be related to a higher risk of malignancy. However, the Spanish researchers failed to find such an association. Rather, they suggest that smoking after transplant which increases the risk, and smoking cessation following transplant surgery which decreases the risk, are more significant indicators.
“Smoking is related to some of the most frequent causes of post-transplant malignancy,” says study leader Dr. J. Ignacio Herrero of the Clínica Universidad de Navarra in Pamplona, Spain. “We investigated whether the risks of developing malignancies was different in patients who ceased smoking than in patients who maintained smoking after transplantation.” Risk factors of lung, head and neck, esophagus, kidney and urinary tract (other than prostate) cancers after liver transplantation were examined in the present study.
The research team introduced a screening protocol, according to the risk of neoplasia, related to smoking for every patient in the study. The patient population consisted of 339 liver transplant recipients receiving their first liver transplantation between April of 1990 and December of 2009 who had a post-transplant survival greater than three months. Participants received cyclosporine- or tacrolimus-based immunosuppression. Risk factors for the development of smoking-related neoplasia were also studied in 135 patients who had a history of smoking, in order to explore if smoking withdrawal was associated with a lower risk of malignancy.
SRM risk factors examined were age, sex, alcohol abuse before liver transplantation, hepatitis C virus infection, hepatocellular carcinoma at transplantation, primary immunosuppression (cyclosporine or tacrolimus), history of rejection requiring high doses of steroids or antilymphocytic globulins in the first 3 months, number of immunosuppressive drugs at 3 months, and smoking history. A second analysis of risk factors for the development of SRM was performed only in smokers, focusing on active versus prior smoking history.
After a mean follow-up of 7.5 years, 26 patients were diagnosed with 29 smoking-related malignancies. Five and ten-year actuarial rates were 5% and 13%, respectively. In multivariate analysis, smoking and a higher age were independently associated to a higher risk of malignancy. In the subgroup of smokers, the variables related to a higher risk of malignancy were active smoking and a higher age.
“Smoking withdrawal after liver transplantation may have a protective effect against the development of neoplasia,” concluded Dr. Herrero. “As smoking is an important risk factor of malignancy, intervention programs, together with screening programs may help to reduce the rate of cancer-related mortality in liver transplant recipients.”
Lit: Blog di Antonio, salutedomani.com
About Clinical Variola Major - smallpox
About Clinical Variola MajorAfter the recent summary of World Health Organization–authorized research on smallpox, several clinical issues remain. This policy review addresses whether early hemorrhagic smallpox is disseminated intravascular coagulation and speculates about the cause of the high mortality rate among pregnant women and whether ocular smallpox is partly the result of trachoma or vitamin A deficiency.
The joint destruction common in children with smallpox might be prevented by antiviral drugs, but intraarticular infusion of antiviral drugs is unprecedented.
Development of highly effective antiviral drugs against smallpox raises the issue of whether postexposure vaccination can be performed without interference by an antiviral drug. Clinicians should consider whether patients with smallpox should be admitted to general hospitals. Although an adequate supply of second-generation smallpox vaccine exists in the United States, its use is unclear. Finally, political and ethical forces suggest that destruction of the remaining stocks of live smallpox virus is now appropriate.
Variola major resulted in destruction of large joints, particularly of the elbows and knees, in ≈2% of unvaccinated children. It seems likely that that this joint destruction was caused by infection of the joint space or compromise of the blood supply by a viral arteritis, rather than by an immune-mediated arthropathy . Could ST-246 or CMX-001 be injected directly into the joint space, and if so would it help? If the mechanism is predominately poor blood flow secondary to an arteritis, an antiviral drug might not eliminate it. Direct injection of an antiviral drug into the joint spaces might be useful if we could agree on clinical indicators of joint infection that would induce such a therapeutic approach.
Massoudi MS, Barker L, Schwartz B. Effectiveness of postexposure vaccination for the prevention of smallpox: results of a Delphi analysis. J Infect Dis. 2003;188:973–6. PubMed DOI
WHO: Combat Drug Resistance
WHO: Combat Drug ResistanceDrug resistance is becoming more severe and many infections are no longer easily cured, leading to prolonged and expensive treatment and greater risk of death, warns WHO on World Health Day. Under the theme "Combat Drug Resistance", WHO calls for urgent and concerted action by governments, health professionals, industry and civil society and patients to slow down the spread of drug resistance, limit its impact today and preserve medical advances for future generations.
On the brink of losing miracle cures
“The message on this World Health Day is loud and clear. The world is on the brink of losing these miracle cures,” said WHO Director-General Dr Margaret Chan. “In the absence of urgent corrective and protective actions, the world is heading towards a post-antibiotic era, in which many common infections will no longer have a cure and, once again, kill unabated.”
Measures to combat drug resistance
Today, WHO is publishing a policy package that sets out the measures governments and their national partners need to combat drug resistance. The policy steps recommended by WHO include:
develop and implement a comprehensive, financed national plan
strengthen surveillance and laboratory capacity
ensure uninterrupted access to essential medicines of assured quality
regulate and promote rational use of medicines
enhance infection prevention and control
foster innovation and research and development for new tools.
The discovery and use of antimicrobial drugs to treat diseases such as leprosy, tuberculosis, gonorrhea and syphilis changed the course of medical and human history. Now, those discoveries and the generations of drugs that followed them are at risk, as high levels of drug resistance threaten their effectiveness.
Drug resistance is a natural biological phenomenon, through which microorganisms acquire resistance to the drugs meant to kill them. With each new generation, the microorganism carrying the resistant gene becomes ever more dominant until the drug is completely ineffective. Inappropriate use of infection-fighting drugs (underuse, overuse or misuse) causes resistance to emerge faster.
Resistance detected in a number of diseases
Last year, at least 440 000 new cases of multidrug resistant-tuberculosis were detected and extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis has been reported in 69 countries to date. The malaria parasite is acquiring resistance to even the latest generation of medicines, and resistant strains causing gonorrhea and shigella are limiting treatment options. Serious infections acquired in hospitals can become fatal because they are so difficult to treat and drug-resistant strains of microorganism are spread from one geographical location to another in today's interconnected and globalized world. Resistance is also emerging to the antiretroviral medicines used to treat people living with HIV.
Getting everyone on the right track
“On this World Health Day, WHO is issuing a policy package to get everyone, especially governments and their drug regulatory systems, on the right track, with the right measures, quickly,” said Dr Chan. “The trends are clear and ominous. No action today means no cure tomorrow. At a time of multiple calamities in the world, we cannot allow the loss of essential medicines – essential cures for many millions of people – to become the next global crisis.”
"WHO has established many initiatives to understand and address drug resistance over the last decade, particularly in relation to some of the world's most deadly infectious diseases," said Dr Mario Raviglione, Director of WHO Stop TB Department, who has been leading the preparations for World Health Day 2011. "Those measures must now be further strengthened and implemented urgently across many diseases and across many sectors. New collaborations, led by governments working alongside civil society and health professionals, if accountable, can halt the public health threat of drug resistance."
Everyone can make a contribution
Although governments need to take the lead and develop national policies to combat drug resistance, health professionals, civil society and other groups can also make important contributions. For example, doctors and pharmacists can prescribe and dispense only the drugs that are required to treat a patient, rather than automatically giving either the newest or best-known medicines. Patients can stop demanding that doctors give them antibiotics when they may not be appropriate. Health professionals can help rapidly reduce the spread of infection in health care facilities.
Collaboration between human and animal health and agriculture professionals is also vital, as the use of antibiotics in food animal production contributes to increased drug resistance. Approximately half of current antibiotic production is used in agriculture, to promote growth and prevent disease as well as to treat sick animals. With such massive use, those drug resistant microbes generated in animals can be later transferred to humans.
Governments and partners need to work closely with industry to encourage greater investment in research and development of new diagnostics that can help improve decision making as well as drugs to replace those that are being lost to resistance. Today, less than five per cent of products in the research and development pipeline are antibiotic drugs. Innovative incentive schemes are needed to stimulate industry to research and develop new antimicrobial drugs for the future.
Literature : WHO
Tooth decay .
Tooth decay .
Dutch researchers may have just decipher the structure of the enzyme responsible for plaque sticking to teeth. By adding an inhibitor to toothpaste or even to the food we eat, tooth decay and cavities could soon become a rarity.
Glucansucrase, the enzyme that allows bacteria to convert sugars into long, glue-like sugar chains and stick themselves to our teeth, is a close evolutionary cousin to amylase enzymes found in our saliva. And because we need amylase to break down starches, its previously been impossible to exterminate the glucansucrase in our mouths because doing so would also neutralize our amylase.
So researchers at the University of Groningen used protein crystallography to figure out the 3-D structure of glucansucrase, successfully crystallizing it for the first time. In doing so, they defined the folding mechanism of the protein, a unique function that turned out to be far different than researchers had previously imagined. Being unique, they now think it should be possible to create inhibitors that target the folding structure directly, meaning they could “turn off” glucansucrase without affecting the necessary function of amylase in our digestive tracts.
So while the toothbrush might not be going anywhere, toothpaste laced with inhibitors could do more than just scrub plaque away – it could sabotage the very means by which plaque attaches itself to enamel. Inhibitors could even be worked into sugary foods and sweets to keep plaque from forming in the first place.
Dutch researchers may have just decipher the structure of the enzyme responsible for plaque sticking to teeth. By adding an inhibitor to toothpaste or even to the food we eat, tooth decay and cavities could soon become a rarity.
Glucansucrase, the enzyme that allows bacteria to convert sugars into long, glue-like sugar chains and stick themselves to our teeth, is a close evolutionary cousin to amylase enzymes found in our saliva. And because we need amylase to break down starches, its previously been impossible to exterminate the glucansucrase in our mouths because doing so would also neutralize our amylase.
So while the toothbrush might not be going anywhere, toothpaste laced with inhibitors could do more than just scrub plaque away – it could sabotage the very means by which plaque attaches itself to enamel. Inhibitors could even be worked into sugary foods and sweets to keep plaque from forming in the first place.
Smart Bandages
Researchers in Germany have created bandages that turn purple at the first sign of infection.
A new wound dressing, developed at the Fraunhofer Research Institution for Modular Solid State Technologies EMFT in Munich, includes a special dye that reacts to different pH values.
The new trauma bandage insulates wounds just like any other bandage, but it provides a special window into how a wound is healing. Typically, healthy skin and healed wounds have a slightly acidic pH, around 5 or 6. If this value increases into the alkaline range, that can indicate infection, reports Gizmag.
If the pH value is between 6.5 and 8.5, the new bandage will turn purple, according to Dr. Sabine Trupp, a scientist at the EMFT. The indicator strip can allow patients and doctors to monitor for infection without having to change dressings. This is an advantage because removing a bandage can let in germs. The next step is to test the strips at a German hospital’s dermatology clinic.
Eventually, the researchers want to integrate an optical sensor, which could measure pH values and indicate the results on a screen, providing precise data about whether a wound is getting better.
A new wound dressing, developed at the Fraunhofer Research Institution for Modular Solid State Technologies EMFT in Munich, includes a special dye that reacts to different pH values.
The new trauma bandage insulates wounds just like any other bandage, but it provides a special window into how a wound is healing. Typically, healthy skin and healed wounds have a slightly acidic pH, around 5 or 6. If this value increases into the alkaline range, that can indicate infection, reports Gizmag.
If the pH value is between 6.5 and 8.5, the new bandage will turn purple, according to Dr. Sabine Trupp, a scientist at the EMFT. The indicator strip can allow patients and doctors to monitor for infection without having to change dressings. This is an advantage because removing a bandage can let in germs. The next step is to test the strips at a German hospital’s dermatology clinic.
Eventually, the researchers want to integrate an optical sensor, which could measure pH values and indicate the results on a screen, providing precise data about whether a wound is getting better.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis or RA is an auto immune disease, which is characterized by inflammation in the lining of the joints and only affects 1 to 2 percent of the population.
But the life altering effects of this disease can be quite invasive. If you suspect that you may have Rheumatoid Arthritis or if you have already been diagnosed with such, it is important to clearly understand the most common symptoms for this condition so that you can most effectively participate in the management of your healthcare.
RA can develop in children, teens, young adults and even those in middle age. Currently research indicates that women are more often diagnosed with RA than men.
Early symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can at times be tough to diagnose since the early symptoms can go in and out of remission making it hard for your physician to see the physical symptoms of what you are describing and have been experiencing. You might consider keeping a log of your symptoms so that your healthcare provider can see the pattern.
While symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can differ from person to person, there is currently no single medical test that will definitively diagnose rheumatoid arthritis.Todaz the diagnosis of RA goes though labor test with RA Fackto and Citruliin Antibodies title.
Most often physicians report that patients commonly hear a complaint of repetitive joint pain that frequently occurs every day. The pain and joint limitations can cause your day to be interrupted and tough to manage. RA can certainly cause trouble in the basic management of your daily activities. It can give you a challenge trying to manage even the most basic of tasks.
RA symptoms often include joint stiffness in the morning in and around the joints that persist for more than thirty minutes, joint swelling in the wrists, knuckles, or in the individual finger joints. Many patients also report a feeling of heat over the irritated joints. Often RA can invade other joints, such as the jaw, elbows, shoulders, feet and ankles.
While there is currently no known cure for rheumatoid arthritis, with aggressive and early treatment the inflammation and pain associated with RA can be better controlled. This early and aggressive treatment is also shown to decrease and often stop the joint destruction of rheumatoid arthritis.
But the life altering effects of this disease can be quite invasive. If you suspect that you may have Rheumatoid Arthritis or if you have already been diagnosed with such, it is important to clearly understand the most common symptoms for this condition so that you can most effectively participate in the management of your healthcare.
RA can develop in children, teens, young adults and even those in middle age. Currently research indicates that women are more often diagnosed with RA than men.
Early symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can at times be tough to diagnose since the early symptoms can go in and out of remission making it hard for your physician to see the physical symptoms of what you are describing and have been experiencing. You might consider keeping a log of your symptoms so that your healthcare provider can see the pattern.
While symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can differ from person to person, there is currently no single medical test that will definitively diagnose rheumatoid arthritis.Todaz the diagnosis of RA goes though labor test with RA Fackto and Citruliin Antibodies title.
Most often physicians report that patients commonly hear a complaint of repetitive joint pain that frequently occurs every day. The pain and joint limitations can cause your day to be interrupted and tough to manage. RA can certainly cause trouble in the basic management of your daily activities. It can give you a challenge trying to manage even the most basic of tasks.
RA symptoms often include joint stiffness in the morning in and around the joints that persist for more than thirty minutes, joint swelling in the wrists, knuckles, or in the individual finger joints. Many patients also report a feeling of heat over the irritated joints. Often RA can invade other joints, such as the jaw, elbows, shoulders, feet and ankles.
While there is currently no known cure for rheumatoid arthritis, with aggressive and early treatment the inflammation and pain associated with RA can be better controlled. This early and aggressive treatment is also shown to decrease and often stop the joint destruction of rheumatoid arthritis.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Amazing Facts about Eggs
Eggs contain more proteins than chicken or milk.
Eggshell is made of calcium carbonate. It weighs nine to twelve percent and has pores that create oxygen and carbon dioxide to enter and moist air to exit.
The egg white is also as important as the yolk. It contains 57 percent of the total egg's protein content. Besides, the egg white contains Vitamin B3, Vitamin B2, chlorine, magnesium, potassium, sodium and sulfur as well.
The egg yolk color is determined by what the hen eat. If the hens eat a lot of yellow and orange grain, they will create thick yellow eggs
If the egg white looks murky, the egg is fresh. If it looks clear, the egg is definitely from old chickens.
Sometimes we see there is a little blood inside of the egg. This blood appears when blood vessels in the yolk are broken. However, the egg is till safe for eating
Egg temperature can reach 40.5 degrees Celsius at the time of egg hatching.
A hen often lays eggs from 250 up to 270 eggs each year
Duck egg has a fishier odor and skin pores are also larger in comparison with chicken egg. Therefore, duck egg is more suitable for salted egg than chicken egg.
About the Author:
Elizabeth Woods I have been working as a doctor of a general hospital since February 1998. In addition, I am a full time writer and specialize in weight loss related issues. I also write for a number of different websites on the Internet.
Articles Source:http://health.ezinemark.com/amazing-facts-about-eggs-7736ad359992.html
Celiac Diease: The Gluten Free Food Diet
 By : Mark Etinger In the past decade or so, we've seen a lot of discussion about gluten free food and heard the term "celiac disease" tossed around quite a bit. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease. When one with the disease ingests food that contains gluten, there is a toxic reaction that causes damage to the small intestines and the food cannot be properly absorbed. The villi, tiny hair-like projections that absorb nutrients, become damaged when gluten is eaten. Then the damaged villi will not be able to absorb other nutrients that your body needs. Celiac disease affects both children and adults and there is no cure. What is gluten? Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, barley, and triticale. When eating foods with gluten, not only will you damage your intestines, you will feel physical symptoms as well, such as, abdominal cramping, bloating, chronic diarrhea or constipation, anemia, and unexplained weight loss. Since there is no cure or medication, the only way to avoid these symptoms is to eat gluten free food. The diet may seem strict, but even a small amount of gluten can make you sick. First and foremost, you need to avoid foods that contain wheat, rye, and barley which are bagels, bread, pasta, pizza, and crackers. Even if you see these foods packaged as "wheat free," that does not mean it is gluten free. Initially you should also avoid oats. Oats can cause symptoms in some, but many people can eat moderate amounts of oats without discomfort. After initial diagnosis, avoid or limit milk products as well. They can aggravate your already damaged small intestines. Allow about 2 to 6 months for your small intestines to heal and slowly introduce yourself back into milk products. You must also avoid all types of beer because they too contain gluten. It's important to speak with a dietician after your diagnosis because gluten free shopping can sometimes be difficult and it's a very big adjustment to what you're normally used to. When shopping, the most important thing to do is simply read the labels of your food. Learn about ingredients that are just code names for gluten. With a growing number of people diagnosed with celiac disease, finding gluten free products isn't as difficult as it once was. Specialty stores sell versions of all your favorite foods, like gluten free pasta, bread, cakes, and more. Celiac disease doesn't have to be a debilitating and bland disease to live with. You can have your gluten free cake and eat it too and enjoy a normal life. |
| Author Resource:- Gluten Free Palace is your online shop for a wide variety of gluten free foods including gluten free recipes, gift baskets and other gluten free snacks. |
| Article From Article Biblotek |
Eating Fast Foods… The Healthy Way
Eating Fast Foods… The Healthy Way
Michelle Mirizzi, MS, Registered Dietitian
As a parent, you have a strong influence over how much fast food your child eats. Find out how to set some guidelines to follow when eating out that will teach them how to make healthy choices as adults.In the ‘olden days’ there were no video games or televisions. People ate all their meals at home or sometimes at another family’s home. All the food was prepared from scratch and a lot was home grown. Most families would only go out to eat if it was a very special occasion. Times have changed and now we are often referred to as the ‘fast food nation.’ Everyday, one out of every four children eat fast food and nearly half of all of us eat fast food more than once a week. We do this primarily because of convenience and because it’s less expensive than going to a restaurant. Let’s face it, children love fast food meals because it comes in a colorful box, it’s served quickly and, most importantly, it comes with a toy!
Fast food chains spend a huge amount of money on marketing to get the attention of children. They know that most people form their eating habits as children so they try to shape these ‘future customers’ as best as they can. They spend so much money on marketing to children that according to Eric Schlosser, author of the book “Fast Food Nation”, 96% of children can identify Ronald McDonald. The only other fictional character that is better identified by children is Santa Claus!Why do we as parents visit these places? Well, our lives are more hectic than ever between school, sports, work and friends. Who has time to think about what to eat? The good news is that you can still enjoy an occasional meal from fast food restaurants by learning how to make smart choices.
As a parent, you have a strong influence over how much your child eats. Setting some guidelines to follow when eating out will teach them how to make healthy choices as adults.
There are some tricks that can help make any fast food meal better for you and your family. Follow these tips to cut down on fat, sodium, sugar, overall calories and make your meal healthier:
- If you are ordering á la Carte items on the menu, find out if there is a child’s size available. Another option is to order the regular size and split the order and share it. Avoid ordering extra large portions just because they are a deal! These deals usually have the words jumbo, giant, super sized or deluxe in the name.
- Don’t be shy about making substitutions! Children love kid’s meals because it comes with a toy and it is usually in a cool looking box. Let them order it but ask to make substitutions for the fries and soda if possible. Many restaurants will offer milk or water as a beverage and apple slices instead of fries.
- Talk to your child before ordering a meal and give them a choice of milk, juice or water (make sure it is low fat milk or 100% fruit juice.) Explain to them that soda is high in empty calories that will just fill up their tummies.
- Let your child know that they can ask for items prepared a specific way. For example, salad dressing on the side, baked or grilled instead of fried, brown rice instead of white rice.
- Finally, set a good example by ordering a healthy meal for yourself.
What Can Parents Do?
By learning how the food is prepared, you will be able to make healthier choices ordering from a menu:
- Order foods that are not breaded or fried because they are higher in fat and calories. Foods that are breaded and deep fried include: chicken nuggets, fried chicken, fried fish sandwiches, onion rings and french fries.
- Order foods that are prepared by being steamed, broiled, grilled, poached, or roasted.
- Have gravy, sauces and dressings served on the side so you can control the amount you eat.
- Use salsa and mustard instead of mayonnaise.
- Use non-fat milk or low fat milk instead of whole milk or heavy cream.
- Order a salad with ‘lite’ or non-fat dressing instead of regular dressing.
- Choose a regular, single patty hamburger without mayonnaise and cheese.
Hamburger fast food restaurants are the most popular with children. However, other options are available such as Asian food, sandwiches, or Mexican grills. Keep in mind that every fast food restaurant has both healthy and less-healthy choices. Here are some pointers to remember that can help you make better choices when eating out at various fast food places:
Mexican food:
- Choose grilled soft tacos or burritos instead of a crispy shell or gordita-type burritos.
- Black beans are a better choice because they have less fat than refried beans.
- Ahhh, the Mexican condiments! Salsa is low in calories and fat and it makes a great substitute for sour cream, guacamole and cheese.
Deli sandwiches:
- Choose lean meats such as chicken breast, lean ham or roast beef, instead of salami or bacon.
- Ask for 100% whole wheat bread for sandwiches. Skip the croissants and biscuits because they are high in fat.
- Add low fat salad dressings instead of special sauces or mayonnaise.
- Choose baked chips or pretzels instead of regular potato chips.
Asian food:
- Steamed brown rice has more nutrients and less calories than fried rice.
- Stir fried, steamed, roasted or broiled dishes are healthier choices than battered or deep fried.
- Sauces such as low sodium soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, wasabi, or ginger are better choices than sweet and sour sauce or coconut milk.
If your family is going to have fast food for one meal, just make sure the other meals that day contain healthier foods like fruits and vegetables. Perhaps you could take an afternoon with your child and prepare a few homemade meals in advance that can be served quickly to avoid the temptation of getting fast food too often while at the same time teaching them some simple food preparation steps. Either way, just remember, it is not that difficult to eat healthy even when you don’t have much time.
This family wellness article is provided by Nourish Interactive, www.nourishinteractive.com
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