StemCell Therapy

Allied Academies cordially invites all the participants across the globe from leading universities, clinical research institutions, diagnostic companies and all interested to share their research experiences in the Annual Biotechnology Congress during August 17-18, 2017 in Toronto, Canada with the theme of New Scientific Developments in Biotechnology of Modern Era.

Track 1:Biochemistry & Molecular Biotechnology

Molecular biotechnology is the use of laboratory techniques to study and modify nucleic acids and proteins for applications in areas such as human and animal health, agriculture, and the environment. Molecular biotechnology results from the convergence of many areas of research, such as molecular biology, microbiology, biochemistry, immunology, genetics, and cell biology. It is an exciting field fueled by the ability to transfer genetic information between organisms with the goal of understanding important biological processes or creating a useful product.

The key drivers for molecular biology enzymes, kits and reagents market are the rising R&D expenditure by the pharmaceutical and biotech companies, and increasing public funding for life science research. The World Health Organization estimates that the total aged population may rise from 605 million in 2000 (11% of the global population) to 2 billion by 2050, accounting for 22% of the global population.

Track 2:Animal biotechnology

It improves the food we eat - meat, milk and eggs. Biotechnology can improve an animals impact on the environment. Animal biotechnology is the use of science and engineering to modify living organisms. The goal is to make products, to improve animals and to develop microorganisms for specific agricultural uses. It enhances the ability to detect, treat and prevent diseases, include creating transgenic animals (animals with one or more genes introduced by human intervention), using gene knock out technology to make animals with a specific inactivated gene and producing nearly identical animals by somatic cell nuclear transfer (or cloning).

Track 3:Biomedicine Engineering

Medicine is by means of biotechnology techniques so much in diagnosing and treating dissimilar diseases. It also gives opportunity for the population to defend themselves from hazardous diseases. The pasture of biotechnology, genetic engineering, has introduced techniques like gene therapy, recombinant DNA technology and polymerase chain retort which employ genes and DNA molecules to make a diagnosis diseases and put in new and strong genes in the body which put back the injured cells. There are some applications of biotechnology which are live their part in the turf of medicine and giving good results.

This field seeks to close the gap between engineering and medicine. It combines the design and problem solving skills of engineering with medical and biological sciences to advance health care treatment, including diagnosis, monitoring and therapy. Prominent biomedical engineering applications include the development of biocompatibleprostheses, various diagnostic and therapeutic medical devices ranging from clinical equipment to micro-implants, common imaging equipment such as MRIs and EEGs, regenerative tissue growth, pharmaceutical drugs and therapeutic biological.

Track 4:Agricultural Biotechnology

Biotechnology is being used to address problems in all areas of agricultural production and processing. This includes plant breeding to raise and stabilize yields; to improve resistance to pests, diseases and abiotic stresses such as drought and cold; and to enhance the nutritional content of foods. Modern agricultural biotechnology improves crops in more targeted ways. The best known technique is genetic modification, but the term agricultural biotechnology (or green biotechnology) also covers such techniques as Marker Assisted Breeding, which increases the effectiveness of conventional breeding.

Track 5:Food Processing & Technology

Food processing is a process by which non-palatable and easily perishable raw materials are converted to edible and potable foods and beverages, which have a longer shelf life. Biotechnology helps in improving the edibility, texture, and storage of the food; in preventing the attack of the food, mainly dairy, by the virus like bacteriophage producing antimicrobial effect to destroy the unwanted microorganisms in food that cause toxicity to prevent the formation and degradation of other toxins and anti-nutritional elements present naturally in food.

Track 6:Industrial Biotechnology

Industrial biotechnology is the application of biotechnology for industrial purposes, including industrial fermentation. The practice of using cells such as micro-organisms, or components of cells like enzymes, to generate industrially useful products in sectors such as chemicals, food and feed, detergents, paper and pulp, textiles and biofuels. Industrial Biotechnologyoffers a premier forum bridging basic research and R&D with later-stage commercialization for sustainable bio based industrial and environmental applications.

Track 7: Pharmaceutical Biotechnology

Pharmaceutical Biotechnology is the science that covers all technologies required for producing, manufacturing and registration of biological drugs.Pharmaceutical Biotechnologyis an increasingly important area of science and technology. It contributes in design and delivery of new therapeutic drugs,diagnosticagents for medical tests, and in gene therapy for correcting the medical symptoms of hereditary diseases. The Pharmaceutical Biotechnology is widely spread, ranging from many ethical issues to changes inhealthcarepractices and a significant contribution to the development of national economy.Biopharmaceuticalsconsists of large biological molecules which areproteins. They target the underlying mechanisms and pathways of a disease or ailment; it is a relatively young industry. They can deal with targets in humans that are not accessible with traditional medicines.

Track 8:Environmental biotechnology

Biotechnology is applied and used to study the natural environment. Environmental biotechnology could also imply that one tries to harness biological process for commercial uses and exploitation. The development, use and regulation of biological systems for remediation of contaminated environments and for environment-friendly processes (green manufacturing technologies and sustainable development). Environmental biotechnology can simply be described as "the optimal use of nature, in the form of plants, animals, bacteria, fungi and algae, to produce renewable energy, food, and nutrients in a synergistically integrated cycle of profit making processes where the waste of each process becomes the feedstock for another process".

Track 9:Genetic & Tissue Engineering

One kind of biotechnology is gene technology, sometimes called 'genetic engineering' or 'genetic modification', where the genetic material of living things is deliberately altered to enhance or remove a particular trait and allow the organism to perform new functions. Genes within a species can be modified, or genes can be moved from one species to another.

Tissue engineering is emerging as a significant potential alternative or complementary solution, whereby tissue and organ failure is addressed by implanting natural, synthetic, or semisynthetic tissue and organ mimics that are fully functional from the start or that grow into the required functionality. Initial efforts have focused on skin equivalents for treating burns, but an increasing number of tissue types are now being engineered, as well as biomaterials and scaffolds used as delivery systems. A variety of approaches are used to coax differentiated or undifferentiated cells, such as stem cells, into the desired cell type. Notable results include tissue-engineered bone, blood vessels, liver, muscle, and even nerve conduits. As a result of the medical and market potential, there is significant academic and corporate interest in this technology.

Track 10:Nano Biotechnology

Nano biotechnology, bio nanotechnology, and Nano biology are terms that refer to the intersection of nanotechnology and biology. Bio nanotechnology and Nano biotechnology serve as blanket terms for various related technologies. The most important objectives that are frequently found in Nano biology involve applying Nano tools to relevant medical/biological problems and refining these applications. Developing new tools, such as peptide Nano sheets, for medical and biological purposes is another primary objective in nanotechnology.

Track 11:Bioinformatics

Bioinformatics is the application of computer technology to the management of biological information. Computers are used to gather, store, analyze and integrate biological and genetic information which can then be applied to gene-based drug discovery and development. The science of Bioinformatics, which is the melding of molecular biology with computer science, is essential to the use of genomic information in understanding human diseases and in the identification of new molecular targets for drug discovery.

Track 12:Biotechnology investments and Biotechnology Grants

Every new business needs some startup capital, for research, product development and production, permits and licensing and other overhead costs, in addition to what is needed to pay your staff, if you have any.Biotechnology products arise from successful biotech companies. These companies are built by talented individuals in possession of a scientific breakthrough that is translated into a product or service idea, which is ultimately brought into commercialization. At the heart of this effort is the biotech entrepreneur, who forms the company with a vision they believe will benefit the lives and health of countless individuals. Entrepreneurs start biotechnology companies for various reasons, but creating revolutionary products and tools that impact the lives of potentially millions of people are one of the fundamental reasons why all entrepreneurs start biotechnology companies.

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Biotechnology 2017 | Biotechnology Congress | Canada ...

Overview

Arthritis is inflammation of one or more of your joints. The main symptoms of arthritis are joint pain and stiffness, which typically worsen with age. The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis causes cartilage the hard, slippery tissue that covers the ends of bones where they form a joint to break down. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that first targets the lining of joints (synovium).

Uric acid crystals, infections or underlying disease, such as psoriasis or lupus, can cause other types of arthritis.

Treatments vary depending on the type of arthritis. The main goals of arthritis treatments are to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, involves the wearing away of the cartilage that caps the bones in your joints. With rheumatoid arthritis, the synovial membrane that protects and lubricates joints becomes inflamed, causing pain and swelling. Joint erosion may follow.

The most common signs and symptoms of arthritis involve the joints. Depending on the type of arthritis you have, your signs and symptoms may include:

The two main types of arthritis osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis damage joints in different ways.

The most common type of arthritis, osteoarthritis involves wear-and-tear damage to your joint's cartilage the hard, slick coating on the ends of bones. Enough damage can result in bone grinding directly on bone, which causes pain and restricted movement. This wear and tear can occur over many years, or it can be hastened by a joint injury or infection.

In rheumatoid arthritis, the body's immune system attacks the lining of the joint capsule, a tough membrane that encloses all the joint parts. This lining, known as the synovial membrane, becomes inflamed and swollen. The disease process can eventually destroy cartilage and bone within the joint.

Risk factors for arthritis include:

Severe arthritis, particularly if it affects your hands or arms, can make it difficult for you to do daily tasks. Arthritis of weight-bearing joints can keep you from walking comfortably or sitting up straight. In some cases, joints may become twisted and deformed.

During the physical exam, your doctor will check your joints for swelling, redness and warmth. He or she will also want to see how well you can move your joints. Depending on the type of arthritis suspected, your doctor may suggest some of the following tests.

The analysis of different types of body fluids can help pinpoint the type of arthritis you may have. Fluids commonly analyzed include blood, urine and joint fluid. To obtain a sample of your joint fluid, your doctor will cleanse and numb the area before inserting a needle in your joint space to withdraw some fluid (aspiration).

These types of tests can detect problems within your joint that may be causing your symptoms. Examples include:

Arthritis treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and improving joint function. You may need to try several different treatments, or combinations of treatments, before you determine what works best for you.

The medications used to treat arthritis vary depending on the type of arthritis. Commonly used arthritis medications include:

Physical therapy can be helpful for some types of arthritis. Exercises can improve range of motion and strengthen the muscles surrounding joints. In some cases, splints or braces may be warranted.

If conservative measures don't help, your doctor may suggest surgery, such as:

Many people use alternative remedies for arthritis, but there is little reliable evidence to support the use of many of these products. The most promising alternative remedies for arthritis include:

While you might first discuss your symptoms with your family doctor, he or she may refer you to a doctor who specializes in the treatment of joint problems (rheumatologist) for further evaluation.

Before your appointment, make a list that includes:

Your doctor is likely to ask questions, such as:

In many cases, arthritis symptoms can be reduced with the following measures:

Last updated: January 7th, 2016

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Arthritis Disease Reference Guide - Drugs.com

A new class of drugs is offering promise for Australians living with rheumatoid arthritis.

But it's essential that the progressive and often painful immune disease is detected early, say a group of Australian experts.

RA is one of the most common forms of arthritis that affects an estimated two per cent of the Australian population.

The autoimmune disease causes the immune system to mistakenly target the body's joints.

This causes the lining of the joints to become inflamed, leading to pain, stiffness and often misalignment of the joints in the hands and feet.

As the disease progresses, symptoms often spread to the wrists, knees, ankles, elbows, hips and shoulders.

The cause of RA remains unknown and there is no cure.

Currently most patients manage the symptoms of the disease through a combination of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, and immunosuppressants.

Immunosuppressants target the whole immune system to slow the progression of RA.

However in recent years a new class of treatments known as biologics, developed through genetic engineering, have been developed.

As a result Australians with RA have "much to look forward to", say the authors of a new report in the Medical Journal of Australia - led by Professor Graeme Jones from the Menzies Institute for Medical Research at the University of Tasmania.

"There are now eight approved biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs), two biosimilars and one targeted synthetic DMARD in Australia with a number of new products andbiosimilars in the pipeline," they wrote.

Rather than targeting the whole immune system, biologics only target and suppress elements of the body's inflammatory response that are specific to RA.

The goal is to slow down the progression of the arthritis and and preserve joint function for as long as possible.

However these therapies are most effective in the first six months of the disease.

"This means that RA should be diagnosed and treated with DMARD therapy as quickly as possible to maximise this benefit, says Prof Jones and his co-authors.

Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include:

- Tender, warm, swollen joints

- Morning stiffness that may last for hours

- Firm bumps of tissue under the skin on your arms (rheumatoid nodules)

- Fatigue, fever and weight loss

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Promise in rheumatoid arthritis treatments - SBS

New treatments and advances in research are giving new hope to people affected by Osteoarthritis pain and symptoms. Dr. Theofilos provides stem cell therapy for osteoarthritis to help those achieve better health and live life in motion.

Stem cell therapy for osteoarthritis is being studied for efficacy in improving the complications in patients through the use of their own stem cells. These procedures may help patients who dont respond to typical drug treatment, want to reduce their reliance on medication, or are looking to try stem cell therapy due to pain or discomfort.

Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative arthritis or degenerative joint disease, is a group of mechanical abnormalities involving degradation of joints, including articular cartilage and subchondral bone. Symptoms may include joint pain, tenderness, stiffness, locking and sometimes an effusion. When bone surfaces become less well protected by cartilage, bone may be exposed and damaged. As a result of decreased movement secondary to pain, regional muscles may atrophy, and ligaments may be affected.

Stem cell treatment is designed to target these areas within the joints to help with the creation of new cartilage cells. Mesenchymal stem cells are multipotent and have the ability to differentiate into cartilage called (chondrytes). The goal of each stem cell treatment is to inject the stem cells into the joint to create cartilage.

Its expected that results of the therapy will vary depending upon the many factors of the severity, patients overall health, nutritional state and immune function. Stem cell therapy is safe and effective in reducing pain and improving function for many patients.

Voted as one of America's Top Surgeons, Charles S. Theofilos, MD, Neurosurgeon and Founder of The Spine Center is a leading provider of the state-of-the-art, most comfortable and effective surgical, minimally invasive and non-surgical treatment options for a full range of cervical and spinal ailments, including stem cell therapy and artificial disc replacement. He was among a field of 20 top neuro and orthopedic surgeons in the U.S. chosen to participate in the groundbreaking Artificial Disc Study, which compared the clinical outcome of disc replacement versus traditional spinal fusion. A widely sought after educator and lecturer, Dr. Theofilos has offices in Palm Beach Gardens and Port St. Lucie.

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11621 Kew Gardens Ave., Suite 101; Palm Beach Gardens

*In an effort to maintain and honor the commitment to our patients, we will continue to accept Medicare and Medicare Advantage insurance plans for all new and follow up appointments.

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Stem cell therapy helps patients with osteoarthritis - Palm Beach Post - Palm Beach Post

St. Clair's Ben Davidson goes for a layup surrounded by Lake Shore defenders during a basketball game Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2017 at St. Clair High School.(Photo: JEFFREY M. SMITH, TIMES HERALD)Buy Photo

Ben Davidson has never been afraid of a challenge.

When he arrived at St. Clair High School, he didn't shy away from taking on a leadership role on the boys varsity basketball team. Now a junior, he has worked himself into being one of the best athletes in the Blue Water Area.

But recently Davidson faced a challenge that might just be the most difficult one he has faced in his life. And after having gone through a trying three week period, in which he was basically blind for four days, Davidson and his parents Diane and Jon have a totally different perspective on life.

"It was one of the most frightening things of my life," Ben's mother Diane Trout-Davidson said. "To see your kid scared and you are trying not to be scared."

St. Clair's Ben Davidson takes a shot during a basketball game Friday, Dec. 9, 2016 at St. Clair High School.(Photo: JEFFREY M. SMITH, TIMES HERALD)

The entire ordeal started late in the Saints boys season. Ben had been fighting what appeared to be the fluwhen he woke up feeling far different than ever before.

"I got really sick with the flu and it was bothering me," he recalled. "I had congestion problems. I just thought I was really sick and that day I woke up and I couldn't see. Light really bothered me and it was really hard to open my eyes and see. But it was a game day so I tried to go to school. I went and the first hour I couldn't do anything. I went to the office and they took me to an emergency eye wash station and tried to wash out my eyes.

"I couldn't play in the game that day and I went to Mercy Hospital in Detroit to see a special ophthalmologist. They told me I had ulcers in my eye andscratches on my corneas. I had two in my left eye and one in my right eye. They actually said they had never seen that before."

The diagnosis was just the beginning of what would be a grueling process the next several days. Davidson's parents helped treat Ben on an hourly basis and fought through fatigue to care for their son, applying eye drops every hour.

"It got really scary," Diane said. "He was in so much pain and light hurt his eyes. Your mind goes to dark places. What if he doesn't get his sight all of the way back? We were lucky. We took care of it and went to the doctor five days in a row. The first few days he wasn't getting better. But finally last Thursday he was 100 percent healed. I think this has impacted him from the little he has shared with me.

"It really scared him. So many kids think they are indestructible and he realized how lucky he is. I try to find some good in it. We spent a lot of time together as a family. We had to wake him up every hour to put antibiotics eye drops in his eyes. He said to me last week 'I really appreciate what you did for me. I know it was really hard for you.' When you said that, it was all worthwhile."

Jon, Ben and Diane Davidson at Parent night this season.(Photo: Submitted photo)

As Davidson improved, he was able to return to the court. But he wasn't the same. He played in the Saints final few games and recorded his lowest-scoring outputs of the season.

"During the two district games I was probably at 50 or 60 percent," Ben said. "It was hard. It was frustrating. I wasn't able to play up to my potential. I just tried to bring anything I could bring. It was blurry and a lot of times when I was passing the ball, I was just looking for the blue jersey. Irealized that life had more than just basketball at that moment.

"I couldn't see for four days. I couldn't open my eyes other than to put drops in them. It made me think life is more than basketball.I realized you have to be thankful to have eyesight. Those four days were the most miserable of my life. My eyes were killing me. If I opened my eyes they were blood red. It was scary. I was scared I would never see again. After four days I could see with sunglasses on."

After the season concluded and Ben reflected back on the situation, his parents said they started to see subtle changes in him.

"My wife and I noticed how thankful he was," Jon Davidson said. "He would tell us thank you 20 times, and you don't normally get that out of a teenage boy. Every hour for two days we put drops in his eyes and then every two hours and every three hours and so forth. I appreciate that he was willing to have the drive to compete even though he wasn't 100 percent. He's been like that since he was a little kid.

"I hope he takes away from this not to take anything for granted. You never know what is going to happen."

St. Clair's Ben Davidson runs the ball during a football game Friday, September 30, 2016 at East China Stadium.(Photo: JEFFREY M. SMITH, TIMES HERALD)

With the off-season officially underway, Ben is back in the gym working out for his final year of high school athletics. He said he is more motivated than ever before failing to finish the season as strong as he had hoped.

"I was giving it my all but it wasnt there," Ben said. "I wasnt proud of my play at the end of the year. It was irritating to me. A lot of people at the New Haven game thought I was overrated and talked about too much. I want to show them I can play great basketball. I think hard times make me better.

"Anything that puts me through adversity. I still think about it every day that I couldnt give 100 percent of what I had in the district, especially in the New Haven game. I was embarrassed with myself. I have to keep working. Even though the season is over I'm in the gym every day. I'm not going to be able to play together. But I want to be the best I can be."

Contact Joseph Hayes at (810) 989-6268 or at jahayes@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter @Joseph_Hayes11.

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Battle for sight: St. Clair's Davidson bounces back from bout with blindness - Port Huron Times Herald

Checking on current RSI levels on shares of iShares Nasdaq Biotechnology (IBB), the 14-day RSI is currently standing at 70.50, pushing the stock into overbought territory. RSI is a momentum oscillator that moves in a range from 0 to 100. RSI is generally used to interpret whether a stock is overbought or oversold. With iShares Nasdaq Biotechnologys RSI above 70, traders should be wary of a potential pullback. Looking a bit closer at other RSI timeframes we can see the 7-day RSI is at75.84 and the 3-day is at81.54.

Fundamental Data Now well take a look at how the fundamentals are stacking up for Avalon Minerals Ltd (AVI.AX). Fundamental analysis takes into consideration market, industry and stock conditions to help determine if the shares are correctly valued. Avalon Minerals Ltd currently has a yearly EPS of -0.01. This number is derived from the total net income divided by shares outstanding. In other words, EPS reveals how profitable a company is on a share owner basis.

Another ratio we can look at is the Return on Invested Capital or more commonly referred to as ROIC. Avalon Minerals Ltd (AVI.AX) has a current ROIC of -8.06. ROIC is calculated by dividing Net Income Dividends by Total Capital Invested.

Similar to ROE, ROIC measures how effectively company management is using invested capital to generate company income. A high ROIC number typically reflects positively on company management while a low number typically reflects the opposite.

Another key indicator that can help investors determine if a stock might be a quality investment is the Return on Equity or ROE. Avalon Minerals Ltd (AVI.AX) currently has Return on Equity of -8.06. ROE is a ratio that measures profits generated from the investments received from shareholders.

In other words, the ratio reveals how effective the firm is at turning shareholder investment into company profits. A company with high ROE typically reflects well on management and how well a company is run at a high level. A firm with a lower ROE might encourage potential investors to dig further to see why profits arent being generated from shareholder money.

Turning to Return on Assets or ROA, Avalon Minerals Ltd (AVI.AX) has a current ROA of -7.96. This is a profitability ratio that measures net income generated from total company assets during a given period. This ratio reveals how quick a company can turn its assets into profits. In other words, the ratio provides insight into the profitability of a firms assets. The ratio is calculated by dividing total net income by the average total assets.

A higher ROA compared to peers in the same industry, would suggest that company management is able to effectively generate profits from their assets. Similar to the other ratios, a lower number might raise red flags about managements ability when compared to other companies in a similar sector.

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iShares Nasdaq Biotechnology (IBB) Crosses Into Overbought Range - Business Review

A phase II stem cell treatment is the talk of the rheumatology community.

Stem cell treatments have been a topic of conversation among many people with autoimmune and degenerative forms of arthritis.

Now, an Australian pharmaceutical company is trying to figure out if this type of regenerative medicine could play a key role in treating or managing rheumatic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Mesoblast has developed a stem cell therapy that is administered intravenously to people with RA who didnt experience success taking anti-TNF drugs like Remicade, Enbrel, and Humira.

Read more: Stem cell therapy possible treatment for rheumatoid arthritis

The phase II study followed 48 patients who received one injection of the stem cell therapy.

These patients received therapeutic benefits as long as nine months after the initial dosing, company officials reported.

While more studies will be conducted in a phase III trial in order to validate the results, the results could mean positive things for the many people with RA who dont fare well on TNF-inhibitors.

Anti-TNF drugs are a billion dollar industry as well as a source of relief for many people with RA.

However, 20 to 40 percent of people treated with these medications either have an adverse reaction, or find no relief.

Perhaps the best news for people with RA who are sensitive to medications or experience pharmacophobia is that unlike some other treatments, little toxicity or side effects were indicated in the studies of Mesoblasts stem cell treatment.

Read more: Green tea for rheumatoid arthritis

The treatment uses mesenchymal precursor cells (MCPs).

Because the immune system doesnt recognize these MCPs as foreign or invaders, they dont tend to produce a negative response.

The MCP cells are adult stem cells, not embryonic stem cells.

The cells work because they contain certain receptors targeting the RA response and altering the way the bodys immune system works or, in the sense of RA, the way it malfunctions.

According to a published statement to the press from Mesoblast, The way the cells work is, they have receptors on their surface that are activated by every major cytokine that is important in progressive rheumatoid arthritis, including TNF, IL-1, IL-6, IL-17. Those cytokines drive the disease and also bind to receptors on our cells. And when they bind to our cells they activate the cells to release other factors that switch off the very cells that made those cytokines.

There continues to be more research done on stem cell therapy as a way to treat immune, autoimmune, and inflammatory diseases.

In the United States, a company called Regenexx shares some stem cell success stories on their website, often pertaining to healing osteoarthritis or injury.

While in the past, stem cells were only used to treat orthopedic injuries and conditions, newer research like the targeted regenerative stem cell therapy that is being created by Mesoblast also aims to treat other forms of arthritis like RA.

Read more: Biologic treatments for rheumatoid arthritis

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Regenerative Stem Cell Treatment Offers Hope for People with ... - Healthline

American Academy of Ophthalmology Statement on Stem Cell Therapy for Treating Eye Disease PR Newswire (press release) The Academy has previously issued clinical guidance that covers the appropriate use of stem cell therapy in eye care. These recent cases confirm the Academy's belief that the FDA should thoroughly investigate and level regulatory action against ...

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American Academy of Ophthalmology Statement on Stem Cell Therapy for Treating Eye Disease - PR Newswire (press release)

The technology could help people worldwide suffering from neurodegenerative diseases that affect eyesight, including macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa and loss of vision due to diabetes.

Scientists have developed a new eye implant, using arrays of silicon nanowires that sense light and electrically stimulate the retina, which may help restore vision in millions of people worldwide.

The advance brings us a step closer to restoring the ability of neurons in the retina to respond to light.

The researchers from University of California San Diego and US-based startup Nanovision Biosciences showed response to light in a rat retina interfacing with a prototype of the device in vitro.

The technology could help tens of millions of people worldwide suffering from neurodegenerative diseases that affect eyesight, including macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa and loss of vision due to diabetes.

Performance of current retinal prostheses to help the blind regain functional vision is still limited.

We want to create a new class of devices with drastically improved capabilities to help people with impaired vision, said Gabriel A Silva, professor at UC San Diego.

Performance of current retinal prostheses to help the blind regain functional vision is still limited. (Shutterstock)

The new prosthesis relies on two groundbreaking technologies. One consists of arrays of silicon nanowires that simultaneously sense light and electrically stimulate the retina accordingly.

The nanowires give the prosthesis higher resolution than anything achieved by other devices closer to the dense spacing of photoreceptors in the human retina. The other breakthrough is a wireless device that can transmit power and data to the nanowires over the same wireless link at record speed and energy efficiency.

The new system does not require a vision sensor outside of the eye to capture a visual scene and then transform it into alternating signals to sequentially stimulate retinal neurons. Instead, silicon nanowires mimic the light-sensing cones and rods to directly stimulate retinal cells.

Nanowires are bundled into a grid of electrodes, activated by light and powered by a single wireless electrical signal. This direct and local translation of incident light into electrical stimulation makes for a much simpler and scalable architecture for the prosthesis.

To restore functional vision, it is critical that the neural interface matches the resolution and sensitivity of the human retina, said Gert Cauwenberghs, from UC San Diego.

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Power is delivered wirelessly, from outside the body to the implant, through an inductive powering telemetry system. For proof-of-concept, the researchers inserted the wirelessly powered nanowire array beneath a transgenic rat retina with rhodopsin P23H knock-in retinal degeneration.

The degenerated retina interfaced with a microelectrode array for recording electrical spikes from neural activity. The horizontal and bipolar neurons fired action potentials preferentially when the prosthesis was exposed to a combination of light and electrical potential and were silent when either light or electrical bias was absent, confirming the light-activated and voltage-controlled responsivity of the nanowire array.

The research was published in the Journal of Neural Engineering.

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Vision 20/20: New nano-implant may help restore eyesight - Hindustan Times

New York Times

Patients Lose Sight After Stem Cells Are Injected Into Their Eyes New York Times The women had macular degeneration, an eye disease that causes vision loss, and they paid $5,000 each to receive stem-cell injections in 2015 at a private clinic in Sunrise, Fla. The clinic was part of a company then called Bioheart, now called U.S ... One stem cell treatment stabilizes macular degeneration, another blinds 3 patientsCNN Vision saved by first induced pluripotent stem cell treatmentNew Scientist Three women lose sight after Florida clinic injects stem cells into their eyes to improve their visionNational Post NPR -RT -BuzzFeed News -The New England Journal of Medicine all 131 news articles »

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Patients Lose Sight After Stem Cells Are Injected Into Their Eyes - New York Times

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Researchers at UCSan Diego have developed a nano-scale retinalimplant that could restoresight with higher resolution than other bionic eye systems(Credit: UC San Diego)

Advances in bionic eyes over the past few decades have given blind and visually impaired people new hope of restoring some of their vision. Now engineers have tested a new nano-scale system that could be implanted onto a patient's retina to respond to light by directly stimulating the neurons that send visual signals to the brain. Unlike other systems, the new device wouldn't require any external sensors, and can provide a much higher resolution.

Two of the most promising bionic eyes in development are the Argus II, built by Second Sight, and a similar system created by researchers at Bionic Vision Australia. Both of these prosthetics involve first implanting electrodes into the eye, then connecting them to external sensors that can be worn like glasses. Light signals from these camera-like sensors are translated into electrical impulses and sent to the implants to stimulate the neurons at the retina, which in turn send the visual information to the brain by way of the optic nerve.

Both bionic eyes have been tested in patients with a modicum of success: far from restoring vision as a sighted person knows it, the devices produce patterns of light that a patient has to learn to interpret. But the new prosthesis, from engineers at the University of California San Diego, uses bundles of nanowires that should provide clearer vision, and do so without need of a camera.

"We want to create a new class of devices with drastically improved capabilities to help people with impaired vision," says Gabriel Silva, a senior author on the study.

The nanowires are designed to mimic the natural photoreceptor cells in the retina. When they sense incoming light, they respond by generating an electric current that stimulates the retinal cells, and these signals are sent to the brain. Since these nanowires can be arranged in a grid with a density close to natural retinal cells, the new device has the potential to provide "images" of a much higher resolution than other bionic eyes.

"To restore functional vision, it is critical that the neural interface matches the resolution and sensitivity of the human retina," says Gert Cauwenberghs, senior author of the study.

Power for the system is provided wirelessly via induction, with an electromagnetic coil outside the body relaying energy to the implant. This power is responsible for the sensitivity and timing of the retinal stimulation, and according to the researchers, is highly energy efficient, thanks to reducing energy lost in transmission. The same 13.56 MHz RF signal can also transmit data, at a rate of one bit for every two cycles.

To test their system, the researchers implanted the nanowires into a cultured rat retina, which had been engineered with a degenerating disorder. The retina was hooked up to an array of microelectrodes that would record the electrical signals that, normally, would be sent to the brain, to allow the team to study the neural activity generated by the nanowires. When the device was powered up and exposed to light, the neurons fired in response, but when either the light or electricity was taken away, they remained silent, indicating that the system works as the team hoped.

The next step for the team is to conduct tests in live animals, before eventually moving on to clinical trials. Nanovision Biosciences, a spinoff company started by the researchers, is driving that future work, with an eye towards helping patients with retinal degeneration restore some of their vision.

"We have made rapid progress with the development of the world's first nanoengineered retinal prosthesis as a result of the unique partnership we have developed with the team at UC San Diego," says Scott Thorogood, CEO of Nanovision Biosciences.

The research was published in the Journal of Neural Engineering.

Link:
Nanowire retinal implant could restore sight with better resolution - New Atlas

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Glaucoma is caused when the optic nerve, which connects the eye to your brain, becomes damaged. It can lead to loss of vision if not detected and treated early on.

Dr Chris Hemmerdinger, glaucoma specialist at Optegra Eye Hospital Manchester, answers the frequently asked questions about the condition.

What is glaucoma?

According to the World Health Organisation, glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the world.

While people of any age can develop glaucoma, it is most prevalent in people over the age of 40.

It is a collection of eye conditions causing progressive damage to the optic nerve, which is the main nerve that transmits images from the eye to the brain, allowing us to see.

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What are the symptoms?

The most common form of glaucoma is Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG). POAG can often only be detected during a routine eye test as there are no noticeable symptoms until a considerable amount of vision has been lost.

Once vision is lost to glaucoma it cannot be restored.

Some forms of glaucoma can be caused by the drainage angle within the eye becoming closed. The acute form of closed angle glaucoma is an ophthalmic emergency. The pressure in the eye increases rapidly causing pain, redness and sudden loss of vision.

A family member suffered from glaucoma am I at risk?

Glaucoma is a hereditary disease, therefore if a family member suffers from glaucoma it can make you more susceptible to developing the condition.

If you are over 40 years of age and have a first-degree relative (mother, father, brother, sister, son or daughter) with glaucoma, you are entitled to a free annual NHS eye test. Its therefore important that a person who has a close relative with glaucoma mentions this during their eye check-up and arranges regular tests to ensure symptoms can be detected early.

According to the World Health Organisation, glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the world.

Dr Chris Hemmerdinger

How do you reduce the risk of glaucoma?

The risk of developing glaucoma increases as you get older, with the most common type of glaucoma affecting 1 in 50 people aged over 40 and on average 10 percent of people over the age of 75.

Early detection is the best way to prevent vision loss from glaucoma.

Regular sight tests with an optician can detect early changes in glaucoma such as raised intra ocular pressure (IOP) - as IOP builds, pressure pushes on the optic nerve directly or reduces its blood supply over time distorting the information passed from the eye to the brain leading to vision loss.

The earlier glaucoma is diagnosed the better, as treatment in the early stages can help stop your vision becoming severely affected.

An optometrist can help with a series of quick and painless tests to diagnose and monitor glaucoma.

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If signs of glaucoma are picked up you will be referred to an ophthalmologist who will conduct further tests to establish the type of glaucoma, the extent of damage to the eyes and the most appropriate treatment.

There are specialist glaucoma consultants like myself at all Optegra hospitals, so you can be sure youll be in safe hands. What is the treatment?

Glaucoma is treated by lowering eye pressure, which is most commonly achieved using eye drops.

However, laser treatment or surgery may be appropriate. Should you require treatment your ophthalmologist will discuss all suitable options with you.

A number of our hospitals offer bespoke glaucoma monitoring services including North London, Manchester and Hampshire. Our service identifies and captures any potential risks or developments. It is suitable for anyone who has, or is at risk of developing glaucoma, and is concerned about its potential progression.

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Diseases caused by high blood pressure

Patients are assessed by an Optometrist and a Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon through a series of thorough and comprehensive tests, which uses state-of-the-art imaging equipment.

The service offers continued care and support to give peace of mind during what can be a daunting time.

How long does treatment last?

Glaucoma is not curable and vision lost cannot be regained. Therefore, treatment is usually required for life. Eye drops require continuous daily use, and other treatments such as laser treatment or surgery can last many years.

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Glaucoma symptoms: THIS could be putting you at risk of incurable sight loss - Express.co.uk

06:00 Saturday 18 March 2017

Boston Town Football Club chairman Mick Vines has called on people to get their eyes checked after being diagnosed with glaucoma during a routine eye test.

Mr Vines, 67, first noticed a problem with his eyes while struggling to read his newspaper in February last year.

Thinking he needed a new prescription for his reading glasses, he made an appointment with the store.

Mr Vines said: At my last visit to Vision Express I was referred to the hospital to see a specialist as I had possible signs of glaucoma, but everything was ok.

I was told that I am at risk of the condition as my mum had it and was advised to keep an eye on it.

As soon as I realised I had to keep going to the window for better light to read my paper for the horse racing, which I enjoy quite a lot, I thought Id best get checked out again.

Following his eye test the optometrist made him a referral to see a consultant and he was diagnosed with primary open-angle glaucoma in his right eye.

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions in which the optic nerve is damaged where it leaves the eye, resulting in misty and patchy vision and a gradual loss of sight.

While the damage caused is irreversible, treatment and regular monitoring can help slow or prevent vision loss, especially if detected in its early stage.

Michael was prescribed a lifelong treatment of eye drops, which he will use daily to lower the pressure in his eye and help retain useful sight.

The drops are just part of my everyday routine now and are helping; they dont sting or cause blurriness - its a small price to pay rather than go blind.

He will also have regular hospital check-ups and eye tests to monitor the condition.

Vision Express are offering a free eye test. To take part, get a coupon from the store website between March 8-26, and redeem instore by April 30, 2017.

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Town manager calls on people to stay on the ball and get your eyes checked - Boston Standard

Stockton, Mo.-- A bizarre theft in Cedar County has left a local woman there without her glass eye.

The prosthetic was in her purse, when the purse was stolen from her car.

Life hasn't always been a walk in the park for Krystal Horning.

Ten years ago she lost her eye sight in an accident at home.

"We were moving and my husband was busy working and I was tying down a mattress on the back of my mom and them's truck and I had a bungee cord and I was strapping the mattress down and it came back and hit me in the eye," Horning said. "This is still my regular eye they sowed it back up but I have no vision I"m completely blind."

From the beginning, Krystal's dream was to get a shell for that damaged eye, a dream that finally came true, just this month.

Then Monday, March 13, 2017 Krystal and her daughter made a quick stop at the Dollar General store, leaving her purse in the car and in it that very valuable shell.

"I told her put my wallet in my purse and she was like 'mom your purse isn't in here' and I was like 'what do you mean my purse isn't in here?'" Horning said.

The purse had been stolen and what was Krystal's new sense of confidence is gone too.

"I've waited 10 years for this....now it's just like wow I've got to go out in public again like that I mean it hurts...and I've only had it since March the 1st," Horning said.

The casual theft has robbed Krystal in a lot of different ways.

"My son wanted me to come to school with him this morning to read with him they were doing a reading thing at school and he's like no mom you don't have your eye and he's afraid that his classmates will make fun of me," Horning said.

The Lions Club is going to replaces the eye's shell, but Krystal said that means going to Memphis, Tennessee, a financial challenge in itself. Getting the eye returned would be so much better.

"Please I don't care take it somewhere leave it, the police station, give it to a friend and have someone else just bring it back," Horning said. "I just really would appreciate to have my eye back it was molded to me it's not any use to anybody else because."

It's a plea for more than an object returned, getting the eye back would mean an easier way back to normal life.

The Cedar County Sheriff's Office is asking for the anyone with information to call them.

Right now, Krystal Horning plans to head to Memphis on March 26th if her eye isn't found.

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Cedar County Sheriff's Office investigates stolen glass eye - KY3

Because of his failing eyesight, David Bradds has to use binoculars to watch his son, Belmont star Evan Bradds, play basketball.(Photo: Michael Dann / OVC)

Evan Bradds' career at Belmont has been something that would make any parent beyond proud.

Bradds' throwback style of play has made him something of a modern day phenom who has been among the nation's highest percentage shooters the past three years.

It's been a career a parent wouldn't want to miss and one Bradds' father, David, has thoroughly enjoyed watching.

Even when he barely couldsee it.

David is suffering from failing eyesight. He lost count long ago of the number of surgeries he's had, but he knows that detached retinas in both eyes have robbed him of most of his ability to see at this point.

Evan, who has 1,896 career points and needs 24 to become Belmont's all-time leading scorer,will be back in action at 6 p.m. Wednesday when the Bruins(22-6) visitGeorgia (19-14) in the first round of the NIT.

The last time Evan played, David, 47, had to use binoculars to watch him atMunicipal Auditorium in the Ohio Valley Conference tournament earlier this month.

It's a small arena, but that's the only way David could follow the action.

"I can see people moving aroundout there on the court, but not much more than that," David said. "I can't really make out who the players are."

Evan Bradds is 24 points shy of the Belmont career scoring record.(Photo: File / The Tennessean)

David's eyesight became so poor that he was forced to stop driving a car just before Christmas. And he had been able to drive for onlythree months before that during a stretch in which his eyesight had improved temporarily.

David, who played college basketball at Dayton (1987-91) and helped the Flyers advance to the second round of the NCAA Tournament as a junior, isn't looking for any sympathy.

"You know what, there are (soldiers) out there fighting for their lives; I'm doing all right," David said. "I'm going to be OK."

The bottom line is that David, who first started experiencing issues with his eyes two years ago,feels too blessed to complain.

He has a son who is carrying on the family's basketball tradition. David's father and Evan's grandfather, Gary, was an All-American at Ohio State (1961-64) who went on to play in the NBA.

"Evan plays nothing like me," David said. "He plays like my dad. I love watching the way he plays."

Evan is thankful his dad still travels from their home in Jamestown, Ohio, as often as possible for his games.

"Obviously, it means a lot; any time your dad's there it's awesome," said Evan, who is averaging 20.6 points and shooting 63.4 percent from the field.

"He's been (to) a bunch of games even since he started having problems with his eyes," Evan said. "When his eyesight is bad, he always has someone with him,like my cousin who was with him at the OVC tournament;he explains to tell him what's going on."

David hasn't allowed his vision problems to affect his desire to help Evan with his game.

"After the games, he's really good with numbers, so he will look at the stats sheet and see what happened," Evan said. "If we didn't shoot the ball well, he will ask what happened there and then ask me what kind of defense they used and we'll talk about it from there."

The good news is that David underwent cataract surgery last week, which improved his vision.

David hopes to make it to Georgia's Stegeman Coliseum for Wednesday's game.

Reach Mike Organ at morgan@tennessean.com or 615-259-8021 and on Twitter @MikeOrganWriter.

NIT

BELMONT(22-6) at GEORGIA (19-14)

When: 6 p.m. Wednesday

Where: Athens, Ga.

Radio: 104.5-FM

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As eyesight fails, Belmont star's dad still watches and teaches - The Tennessean

We, as Americans, aspire to be great. Its why we lead the world in creativity, innovation, and economic growth. Yet, occasionally, our efforts have unintended and potentially dangerous consequences.

Heres a good example: A proposed change to Georgia law that would allow optometrists to treat patients with injections in and around the eyes.

As the president of the Medical Association of Georgia, which represents physicians in every specialty and practice setting, I believe that this idea, albeit well intended, could place thousands of Georgians at risk of blindness and other serious eye health complications.

The proposed legislation allows optometrists (not be confused with ophthalmologists or plastic surgeons, who are physicians) to make injections and perform other delicate procedures in and around a patients eye or eyelid, procedures they simply arent qualified to perform.

The eye is obviously one of our most sensitive and important organs. And we should never cut corners when it comes to any aspect of our health care, but this is especially true when it comes to our eyes and our vision.

I applaud optometrists. They play an important role when it comes to basic eye care. Optometrists are trained to detect serious eye health issues, and they fit patients for glasses, contact lenses and similar corrective vision devices.

But sticking a hypodermic needle into or near a patients eye requires a level of expertise that should be reserved for physician specialists with the requisite, and far more considerable, education, training and experience. In fact, these procedures are so unique and require such great precision that many physicians wont attempt to perform them.

It is also worth noting that any mistakes occurring during procedures that are conducted in or near the eye can have particularly dire consequences, including infections, blurred vision, hemorrhaging and the loss of sight.

As a physician who has cared for patients in this state for more than 30 years, I agree that we should aspire to ensure that every Georgian has access to the medical care they need. But I am also confident (and extremely concerned) that passing legislation to expand optometrists scope of practice in dramatic ways would undermine patient care and could have disastrous results.

Georgians deserve access to the best medical care in the world. When it comes to procedures that are performed in or around the eye, that means access to a physician who has the requisite education and training and experience.

That is why physicians in Georgia are calling for state lawmakers to oppose any legislation that would allow optometrists to treat patients with injections in and around the eyes.

Steven M. Walsh, M.D., is president of the Medical Association of Georgia.

Original post:
Guest column: Move to approve injections by optometrists is a dangerous idea - Gainesville Times

During your pregnancy, you might dread the renowned sugar test that your doctor will probably order around 2428 weeks. You have to drink a sugary liquid and wait around for its effects to spread throughout your system. If you screen through the one-hour and three-hour tests with both positive results, youll have to work with your doctor to keep your blood sugar stable through a proper diet, often called an ADA diet. With this diet plan, many pregnant women can control their gestational diabetes and deliver happy, healthy babies.

What is an ADA diet?

Simply put, the ADA diet is a meal plan recommended by the American Diabetes Association for those dealing with diabetes. This diet encourages you to eat a variety of healthy foods while watching the intake of starches and sugar. You should also choose foods high in vitamins and minerals and balance starch with fiber to keep your sugar levels under control.

In addition, the American Diabetes Association recommends that you work with a dietitian and/or your doctor to learn about proper nutrition for gestational diabetes. If you cannot control your sugar levels through the ADA diet alone, your doctor may add insulin shots.

Controlling Blood Sugar

To control your blood sugar through diet, you can choose one of several ways: carbohydrate counting, the glycemic index, or the plate method. All of these methods focus on balancing starchy foods with protein and low-starch vegetables to improve energy, control weight, and balance blood sugar.

Carbohydrate Counting

For carbohydrate counting, you and your doctor will work to set a number of carbs that you will incorporate into each meal. At first, this process may have some trial and error since your carb intake will depend upon your lifestyle, metabolism, and physical activity. Once you have a set number, youll need to learn the amount of carbs in the foods that you eat. You should never exceed your carbohydrate limit during a meal.

The Glycemic Index

If you choose to use the glycemic index, you will need to incorporate mostly foods that are low or medium on the scale. With this system, youll still need to work closely with medical help since one food may change its glycemic index when paired with another food. For example, you can eat a food high on the glycemic index with one lower on the scale to balance out the glycemic effects.

The Plate Method

To use the plate method, you would aim to fill a certain portion of your plate with either protein, non-starchy vegetables, or starches. You may find this method the easiest one to use, but it doesnt always fit a persons lifestyle.

According toStephanie Dunbar, ADAs director of nutrition and medical affairs, you should fill half your plate with non-starchy vegetables. Then, you can fill another quarter with protein and the final portion with whole grains or starchy vegetables. Finish with a small serving of fruit and low-fat dairy, and youll leave yourself filled and happily balanced.

Choose Foods Wisely

When planning meals for gestational diabetes, you should make wise choices about the foods you eat. You will need to restrain yourself with some types of food and completely eliminate others from your diet. Below, youll find examples that you can eat and some that you should avoid.

Foods to Eat

Foods to Avoid

While having gestational diabetes does require some diet changes and extra care, you can still enjoy filling, healthful foods throughout your pregnancy. Then, with your doctors guidance and the balanced ADA diet, you should successfully control your sugar levels and deliver a happy, healthy baby into the world.

Dr. Manny Alvarez serves as Fox News Channel's senior managing health editor. He also serves as chairman of the department of obstetrics/gynecology and reproductive science at Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey. Click here for more information on Dr. Manny's work with Hackensack University Medical Center. Visit AskDrManny.com for more.

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Caring for your gestational diabetes - Fox News

Reversing Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes, a disease wherein the body is incapable of producing sufficient levels of insulin or doesnt respond to insulin correctly, can be a lifelong disease. It leads to the build up of blood sugars andin the cells inability to receive the energy it needs to function correctly. Its also more likely to afflict people over the age of 40, those who are overweight, or anyone whose family has a history of diabetes.

Prior to this research, there was no definitive cure for type 2 diabetes, although experts have long hypothesized that it could be reversible. A team of Canadian scientists have demonstrated that this theory is indeed correct. In some patients, type 2 diabetes can be reversedthrough a combination of lifestyle changes, intensive medical treatment using oral medication, and insulin therapy. The researchers published their study in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism.

They tested their theory in diabetic patients who had been symptomatic for up to three years. The subjects underwent a personalized exercise regimen, and a strict diet that closely watched and limited their calorie intake to just 500 to 700 a day, and pharmacological treatment withglucose-controlling drugs.

Four months after the intervention, the study revealed that 40 percent of the 83 subjects were able to effectively stop taking their medications, staying in partial or even complete remission.

The results of this pilot study suggest patients with type 2 diabetes have more options to treat their condition,said the studys first author, Natalia McInnes, of McMaster University.

The findings support the notion that type 2 diabetes can be reversed, at least in the short term not only with bariatric surgery, but with medical approaches, McInnes said in an Endocrine Society press release. The research might shift the paradigm of treating diabetes from simply controlling glucose to an approach where we induce remission and then monitor patients for any signs of relapse.

According to the Societys Endocrine Facts and Figures report, one out of 10 American adults suffer from type 2 diabetes.Raising the possibility of reversing the disease can prove to be strong motivation for patients to actually make lifestyle changes and maintain them, McInnes said. This new treatment could also give the patients pancreases a rest and lower fat stores in their bodies, thus improving insulin production in the long run.

Right now, the treatment has proven to be effective only in the short term, but further study and other drug combinations could ultimately lead to better results and higher remission rates.

See the original post:
A Clinical Trial Just 'Reversed' Type 2 Diabetes in 40% of Participants - Futurism

Investopedia

Roche Restructuring Shows Trouble in US Diabetes Biz (RHHBY) Investopedia Amid increasing competition in the U.S. diabetes care market, Roche AG (RHHBY) plans to restructure its U.S. operations and reduce headcount by 10%. The company recently announced that it will lay off 157 employees in its U.S. diabetes care unit.

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Roche Restructuring Shows Trouble in US Diabetes Biz (RHHBY) - Investopedia

Nearly 30 million Americans have diabetes -- a condition where the body fails to properly metabolize sugar. Left untreated, thatsugar builds up in the bloodstream and the body, which can lead to a number ofserious additional health problems such ascardiovascular disease, kidneydisease and eye disease.

Treating diabetes is expensive, costing America alone some $322 billion each year. Naturally, a market that big has attracted plenty of companies to focus on the disease state. Novo Nordisk (NYSE:NVO),Insulet (NASDAQ:PODD), and DexCom (NASDAQ:DXCM)are three such businesses, and I think that they all could be great choices for investors.

Image Source: Getty Images.

Many people who have diabetes take drugs to help keep their blood sugar levels in check. One of the long-term leaders in the industry isNovo Nordisk, a Danish drugmaker that has been selling insulin for nearly a century.

Novo's top line has charged upward for years as it brought new treatments to market. Recent hits includeTresiba, a long-acting insulin that has been taking share from Sanofi's megahit Lantus, andVictoza, a GLP-1 inhibitor that lowers blood sugar levels and tends to help some patients lose weight. Novo also boasts a number of new drugs that should be coming to market soon, such as the recently FDA-approved Xultophy, which combines Victoza and Tresiba, andFiasp, an ultra-fast rapid-acting mealtime insulin.

And yet, despite its long history of successful drug development and its leadership position in treating an increasingly common disease, Novo's share price and valuation have been crushed over the past year.

NVO data by YCharts

What gives? You can blame the decline on increasingpricing pressurefrom insurers on the company's legacy products. To maintain its market share, Novo has been offering discounts. As a result, management dropped its long-term profit growth target from 10% to 5%.

While the waning profit growth is disappointing, I can't help but think that the markets have overreacted. Novo's still cranking out profits, and it has a huge tailwind at its back, so I can't help but like its long-term prospects. With shares trading at a discount and offering up a dividend yield approaching 4%, I think this is a top stock for conservative investors to consider.

Not every person who has diabetes requires insulin injections to stay healthy, but millions of them do. Those daily injections can be a pain, and dosing with precision can be difficult, which is why many insulin-dependent patients prefer instead to use an insulin pump.

However, wearing a pump presents its own issues. Traditional insulin pumps require tubing, which can easily get snagged or tangled during everyday living. To solve that problem, Insulet launched a patch pump called the OmniPod that is worn directly on the body and disposedof after three days of use. The device is alsowaterproof and features automatic cannula insertion, which makes it far easier for patients to place it in tough to reach spots.

Insulet's unique tube-free system has allowed it to gobble up market share over the last decade. Better yet, the company's "razor-and-blade" business model creates a lot of recurring revenue. When combined, the company's top-line -- and share price -- have soared.

PODD Revenue (TTM) data by YCharts

While Insulet is still losing money, there's reason to believe that profits could finally be on the horizon. Revenue from the company's core OmniPod business is still growing by double-digit percentagesboth stateside and abroad. Meanwhile, the other drug delivery business is growing nicely, powered mostly by the company's partnership with Amgen. Margins are also on the riseand are expected to continue to push higher. Longer term, CEO Patrick Sullivan expects the company to pump out more than $1 billion in revenue. If the company can hit that ambitious target, its top line would nearly triple.

Of course, Wall Street is aware of the company's potential and has priced shares at more than seven times sales. While that's a pricey valuation, if the company can deliver on its growth targets, I could easily see shares continuing to outperform from here.

Many people with diabetes are required to measure their blood sugar levels at various times during theday in order to ensure it is within a healthy range. For most, this requires a finger prick to obtain a small blood sample that is tested on a monitor. As you may guess, this isn't a process that many people like.

In an effort to ease this burden, Dexcom launched a small medical device a decade ago that is worn on the body for up to seven days and continuously measures blood glucose levels. This information is then uploaded directly to a smartphone or other receiver, making it far easier for users to track their blood sugar, and allowing them to do it in real time.

This product -- now called the DexcomG5Mobile Continuous Glucose Monitoring System -- has been wildly successful. Like Insulet, Dexcom also benefits from a razor-and-blade business model, which has allowed the company's revenue to soar. In turn, long-term shareholders have been extremely well rewarded.

DXCM Revenue (TTM) data by YCharts

Despite its history of success, there's reason to believe that DexCom's growth engine is just getting warmed up. The company only counts 200,000 patients as active users, just a small fraction of the415 million people with diabetes worldwide.

While Dexcom is still losing money, that's expected to change in 2017. However, Wall Street has caught on to this growth story and is valuing the company at 11 times sales. Despite that nose-bleed valuation, I still think shares could be worth owning since the company is closing in on profitability and staring down a massive growth opportunity. Share prices are likely to remain volatile for the foreseeable future, but if you are a growth investor at heart, I think that DexCom is certainly worthy of a closer look.

Brian Feroldi owns shares of Insulet. The Motley Fool recommends Insulet and Novo Nordisk. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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3 Top Diabetes Care Stocks to Buy in 2017 - Motley Fool