StemCell Therapy

When enlarged under a high-resolution microscope, microglia resemble elegant tree branches with many slender limbs. As they pass by neurons, microglia extend and retract their tiny arm-like protrusions, tapping on each neuron as if to inquire, Are we good here? All okay? Or not okay?as a doctor might palpate a patients abdomen, or check reflexes by tapping on knees and elbows.

Back in 2004, Barres and Stevens were examining how synapses originally come to be pruned to form a healthy brain during early, normal development. Theyd recently discovered that immune molecules known as complement were sending out eat me signals from some brain synapses, and these synapsestagged with a kind of kiss of death signagewere destroyed. Think of the way you click and tag emails that you want deleted from your inbox. Your email servers software recognizes those tags, and when you click on the Trash icon, bing, theyre gone. Thats similar to what Stevens and Barres were seeing happen to brain synapses that were tagged by complement. They disappeared.

What they described happening in the brain, which they reported in the journal Cell in 2007, echoed a similar process that was well-understood to happen in the body. When a cell dies in a bodily organ, or if the bodys immune system senses a threatening pathogen, complement molecules tag those unwanted cells and invaders for removal. Then, a type of white blood cell known as macrophagesGreek for big eatersrecognizes the tag, engulfs the cell or pathogen, and destroys it. In the body, macrophages play a role in inflammation as well as in autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and Guillain Barre. When activated, they can mistakenly go too far in their effort to engulf and destroy pathogens and spew forth a slew of inflammatory chemicals that begin to do harm to the bodys own tissue.

Stevens and Barres werent sure what was eating away at these tagged synapses, causing them to disappear in the brain, but Stevens had a hunch that it might have something to do with microglia.

We could see that when microglia sensed even the smallest damage or change to a neuron, they headed, spider-like, in that neurons direction, then they drew in their limbs and morphed into small, amoeba-like blobs, Stevens says. Soon after, those same synapses disappeared. Poof.

Could microglia be the culprit at the center of it all, the macrophage corollary in the brain, responding to eat me signals and pruning the brains circuitry during development? And what if this process was not only taking place in utero? Stevens wondered, when she first saw microglia behaving this way. What if it was also being mistakenly turned back on again later in life, during the teen years, or in adulthoodonly now its a bad thing and microglia are sometimes mistakenly engulfing and destroying healthy brain synapses too?

You can imagine how you could have too many synapses, or not enough synapse connectivity, Stevens says, her hands spreading wide with excitement. And you can imagine, given how our brain works, if that connectivity is even slightly off, that could potentially underlie a range of neuropsychiatric and cognitive disorders.

When she landed at Harvard, Stevens and her postdoc, Dori Schafer, tried to get a closer look at what microglia were up to in the brain. Schafer injected dye into the eyes of mice, which she then traced down from the neurons in the eye nerves and into the brain. This made the brains synapses glow bright fluorescent red. Microglia were stained fluorescent green. If they saw structuresthe synapsesglowing like red, fluorescent lit-up dots inside the bellies of the green microglia, they would know that microglia were eating synapses.

Six months into their efforts, Schafer came running into Stevenss office with photo images flapping in her hand. Theyre in there! she told Stevens. The synapses are inside the microglia! We can see it! It was such a high-five moment, Stevens recalls. Microglia were like tiny little Pac-Men in the brainand brain synapses were in the belly of the Pac-Men! We felt we were on to something really wonderful, really novel. This was deeply important in terms of looking ahead to microglias role in disease.

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The Tiny Brain Cells That Connect Our Mental and Physical Health - WIRED

For centuries, stories have been told of people whose hair turned prematurely white from harrowing stress. Now, Harvard researchers have found a scientific explanation.

"Marie Antoinette syndrome" is the term commonly used to for the rapid, premature graying, because legend has it that the French queen's hair turned white the night before she faced the guillotine.

Mice get "Marie Antoinette syndrome" when they're highly stressed, too, so Harvard researchers studied them to figure out how stress can induce a permanent loss of hair pigment.

"We started by thinking maybe the immune system is involved," says Harvard stem cell scientist Ya-Chieh Hsu. The hypothesis was that under stress, the immune system attacks the stem cells that generate hair pigment cells.

But when the researchers tested it in mice with defective immune systems that couldn't attack, "They still got gray hairs under stress so that's incorrect," Hsu says.

Next hypothesis: that the stress hormone cortisol was killing the pigment stem cells. The research team tried removing the adrenal glands that make cortisol, but the mice still developed gray hair.

"So we know that cortisol is not involved," Hsu says.

Finally, the research team focused on the sympathetic nervous system the network of nerves best known for the "fight-or-flight" response to danger. Hsu says it just didn't seem like a likely candidate, even though it gets activated by stress, because the fight-or-flight response is temporary.

But now it's clear that "a very transient fight-or flight response can lead to permanent changes in stem cells," she says. "That is a much bigger effect than what we would initially anticipate."

The research finds that during stress, the sympathetic nervous system over-activates and so depletes the stem cells that make pigment cells. No more pigment cells no more hair color.

The paper is just out in the journal Nature.

William Lowry, a biology professor at the University of California, Los Angeles who studies hair follicles, says we've long known there's a connection between stress and graying hair, but not what it was.

"This paper really nails that, in the sense of figuring out what different types of systems in your body come together" to produce the effect, he says.

And that mechanism could apply to more than hair, Lowry says.

"Is this happening in different organs? Is this the canary in the coal mine?" he asks. "I think sure. There's no reason to think that this is a one-off."

Ya-Chieh Hsu at Harvard says the hope is that understanding how stress harms stem cells could lead to ways to block that harm.

Also --- it's not clear whether the stress mechanism that turns hair white is the same as the normal graying that comes with age, but if it is, there could be a way to block that, too.

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How Stress Turns Hair White: Harvard Study Points To 'Fight-Or-Flight' Response - WBUR

Irving Weissman and Joseph McCune, Opinion contributors Published 7:00 a.m. ET Jan. 24, 2020

Severe Trump administration restrictions mean millions of Americans of all political and religious stripes won't benefit from fetal tissue research.

Last summer the Trump administration curtailed federal funding of medical research using human fetal tissue; the new rulestook effect Oct. 1. More recently, the administration addedrestrictions that are even more severe.

Immediately, important work at two NIH-supported labs in Montana and California that are fighting the AIDS epidemic stopped because they were testing new medications against HIV using mice with human immune systems derived from human fetal tissue. In the near term, all National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding of research using fetal tissuewill likely cease.

More than 30years ago, we invented SCID-hu mice for biomedical research on diseases affecting humans, by implanting human fetal blood-forming and immune system tissuesinto mice whose immune systems had been silenced. The implanted immune tissues came from an aborted fetus, and allowed our otherwise immune-deficient mice to exist and be vulnerable to viruses that infect humans.

Tissues from living infants would not have worked;they are too far along in development and nearly impossible to obtain. This mouse model (and later versions of it) became the only living system, outside of a human, in which advanced therapies for diseases like AIDS and other viral infections could be evaluated before they were given to people.

Our work with human fetal tissue proceeded with the highest level of caution and vigilance. We received advice from bioethicists, clergyand government officials, which led to the establishment of strict guidelines that are still used today. No woman was asked or paid to terminate a pregnancy, the termination process was unaltered, and the women were asked for donation of the organs only after they had decided to terminate the pregnancy. Thus, obtaining the fetal tissue for medical research had no impact on ending pregnancies.

Since then, mice with transplanted human fetal tissues have been successfully used by scientists to identify blood stem cells and to devise treatments now availableor in clinical trialsfor cancer, various viral infections, Alzheimers disease, spinal cord injuries, and other diseases of the nervous system. Such diseases kill or cripple many Americans including pregnant women, fetusesand newborn infants. Many of them have only a short window of opportunity wherein a new therapy can treat them, and a delay can be fatal.

National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland, on Oct. 21, 2013.(Photo: *, Kyodo)

The Trump administration's new rules are tantamount to a funding ban. In academic labs, the experiments are done by students and fellows in training, and the new rules block any NIH-funded students or fellows from working with human fetal tissue. Those who imposed the banmust bear responsibility for the consequences: People will suffer and die for lack of adequate treatments.

Americans pay the price:Trump administration's 'scientific oppression' threatens US safety and innovation

At a December 2018 meeting at NIH,after hearing scientific evidence about alternative research methods such as the use of adult cells, experts concluded that the use of fetal tissue is uniquely valuable. Nonetheless, the administration severely restricted the use of fetal tissue, thereby denying millions of Americans the fruits of such research Americans of all political stripes, since deadly viruses and cancers do not care who you vote for.

These restrictions subvert the NIH mission, which is to advance medicine and protect the nations health. To the extent that it was motivated by the religious beliefs of those in charge, it bluntly transgresses the American principle of separation of church and state. As a result, both believers and non-believers will die.

Of course, all who take the Hippocratic Oathto "do no harm,"which includes all medical doctors, will always offer and deliver all types of therapies that are available.

Restricting science: Trump EPA's cynical 'transparency' ploy would set back pollution science and public health

However, we believe that thoseresponsible forthis de facto ban, and perhapsthose who agree with them, should personally accept its consequences. We challenge them tobe true to their beliefs. They should pledge to never accept any cancer therapy, any AIDS medication, any cardiac drug, any lung disease treatment, any Alzheimers therapy, or any other medical advance that was developed using fetal tissue including our mice. Its a long list, one that you can learn about from us here. Should this apply to you, be faithful and be bold: Take the pledge.

Irving Weissman is a Professor of Pathology and Developmental Biology and the Director of the Stanford Institute of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine and Ludwig Center for Cancer Stem Cell at Stanford University School of Medicine. Joseph McCune is Professor Emeritus of Medicine from the Division of Experimental Medicine at the University of California, San Francisco. The views expressed here are solely their own.

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If you want to ban fetal tissue research, sign a pledge to refuse its benefits - USA TODAY

In her mind, its as if she took a seven-month nap, with no memory of the lost time.

ALLIANCE Kertisha Brabson lost seven months of her life, but she has plenty of time to make up for it.

The 31-year-old mother of two is happy to be alive. Shes fortunate to be home with her children. And shes hopeful, anxious and restless about getting back to her old self as a soccer mom and dental hygienist, back to the way it was before.

I know nothing about those seven months, she said from the living room of her South Freedom Avenue home where she raises daughter, Diamonique, 12, and son, Perez, 5.

Brabson was in a coma for seven months after losing consciousness on Sept. 7, 2018. In her mind, its as if she took a seven-month nap, with no memory of the lost time.

We knew we couldnt give up ... shes got two little ones waiting on her, explained Brabsons mom, Kertease Williams. Gods hands were all over me, telling me what to do.

Her battle

Brabsons medical ordeal began earlier in 2018. For months, she wasnt feeling well and was fatigued. In early September, it got really bad. Her speech turned nonsensical. She got confused and lost on an attempted drive to Aultman Hospital in Canton.

She wound up being rushed to Alliance Community Hospital, then was moved to Aultman. Already in a comatose condition, Brabson was taken to Cleveland Clinic where she was diagnosed with anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis.

Its the same affliction that had terrorized young New York Post reporter Susannah Cahalan, who wrote a book, Brain on Fire, in 2013 about her ordeal. The story was turned into a Netflix movie, starring Chlo Grace Moretz, in 2016.

The form of encephalitis that struck Cahalan -- and Brabson -- is caused by a virus that makes the body's immune system attack its own brain cells, leading to psychiatric symptoms, seizures and even cardiovascular complications.

Its cause remains unclear, though recent research is being conducted to determine a possible genetic link.

Still in a coma, Brabson was moved to a nursing home in Boardman. She was there more than a month, but began having multiple seizures daily, so she was taken to St. Elizabeth Hospital for additional medical treatment.

Aggressive treatment

My husband (Larry Williams) helped keep me going, Brabsons mom said. All the support from the community was amazing; and we were getting prayers from all over the world.

Kertease Williams wanted to do more for her daughter.

You do what you got to do, she said.

Her research led her to The Ohio State Universitys Wexner Medical Center. The facility has a Neuro Critical Care Unit, where doctors would work on controlling the 10 seizures per day Brabson was experiencing -- all while still in a coma.

Dr. Shraddha Mainali, an assistant professor of neurology and director of the neurovascular ultrasound lab at Ohio State, said the medical team attacked Brabsons case on two fronts:

Aggressive immunity suppression to control her disease while carefully monitoring antibody levels circulating in her brain fluids.

Aggressive treatment of her seizures using multiple IV drips, oral medications and surgery to help control her relentless seizures.

After about four months of treatment at Wexner, Brabson awoke from her coma.

It was April 7, Williams recalled.

She remembers the time, too.

I get a call at 5:10 a.m. ... they said Kertisha woke up, she said.

Story of hope

Dr. Mainali was thrilled.

Kertisha's case is definitely one of the memorable cases in my career and one of the success stories for our unit as well as the medical community, she said. It is not everyday that we get to see a patient wake up after remaining comatose for seven months.

Although her primary disease (anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis) is quite treatable, Brabsons complications along the way meant there were no guarantees shed ever wake up. It was anyones guess how much damage was done due to the prolonged bouts of seizures.

Her story is one of hope ... , Mainali said. And her outcome (of being alive and independent) goes to show how persistent and meticulous care can help improve outcomes in other patients with her condition, even when the disease is severe enough to make the odds of recovery very slim.

After she woke from her coma, Brabson received ongoing physical, occupational and speech rehabilitation, to help gain back strength and function. When she returned to Stark County, Brabson spent time at Rose Lane Nursing and Rehabilitation in Jackson Township to continue her recovery.

Brabson is back at her home in Alliance. She still goes to therapy. She sees a neurologist weekly. Her short-term memory comes and goes but is getting better.

She was so angry for a while; she wanted to be better right way, Williams said. I keep telling her its going to take time. And I think she realizes that now.

Reach Tim at 330-580-8333 or tim.botos@cantonrep.com.

On Twitter: @tbotosREP

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Alliance womans remarkable recovery from 7-month coma - The-review

Adenoviruses can result in colds, bronchitis, respiratory infections, croup (barking cough), ear infections, pink eye, pneumonia, stomach infections, UTIs, and in rare cases, meningitis.(iStock)

Dear Dr. Manny,

My daughters keep getting sick in elementary school. They always have colds and fevers. Recently the school put out a warning about adenovirus, and I was wondering: What is the adenovirus? What kills adenovirus on the surface? How long is the disease contagious?

Thanks for your question.

Adenoviruses are viruses that affect the lining of the eyes, airways, lungs, intestines, urinary tract, and the nervous system. They cause coughs, pinkeye, fevers, diarrhea, and sore throats. Typically children catch them more frequently than adults.

IS A CANKER SORE CAUSING YOUR MOUTH PAIN?

These infections are usually somewhat mild and go away on their own. But if someone has a weak immune systemor a pre-existing condition, these infections can be dangerous. They are very contagious, and spread through droplets from a cough or sneeze.

Adenoviruses can result in colds, bronchitis, respiratory infections, croup (barking cough), ear infections, pink eye, pneumonia, stomach infections, UTIs, and in rare cases, meningitis.

WHAT IS DRY FASTING?

You cant treat these infections with antibiotics, because they are viral, not bacterial, so prevention is key.

Hand sanitizers do not prevent the spread of adenoviruses. Rather, its important to wash your hands with soap and water. Dont rub your eyes or your nose in public places. Clean surfaces like sinks, counters, floors, doorknobs, cell phones, and commonly used toys with cleaner and water.

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The virus stays contagious long after someone recovers from an infection, and will infect any person with a low immunity.

Do you have a health question for Dr. Manny? Email us atAskDrManny@FoxNews.com

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What is the adenovirus? - Home - WSFX

What is pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an inflammation of the tissue in one or both lungs, usually caused by a bacterial infection. It causes tiny air sacs at the end of the breathing tubes in the lungs to fill up with fluid. The body sends white blood cells to the lungs to try to fight the infection, which helps kill the germs but can also make it harder for the lungs to pass oxygen into the bloodstream.

People with a weaker immune system, whether because of age, illness or disease. Babies, infants and older people, as well as smokers and heavy drinkers, are at higher risk. People with other health conditions, including cancer, long-term heart, lung and kidney diseases and diabetes are also at increased risk, as are those whose immune system has been weakened through chemotherapy or certain medications or because they have HIV/Aids.

They are typically similar to a flu or chest infection so would include a high temperature or fever, sweating, shivering and a cough that brings up phlegm, as well as a loss of appetite. Signs that it is more serious include breathing quickly and feeling confused or disoriented, which is mostly observed in older people. A sharp pain in the side of the chest, which becomes worse when taking a deep breath, usually means that pleurisy an inflammation of the thin outer covering of the lung has developed.

The vast majority of people will recover from pneumonia and return to good health. In milder cases it could involve a few days or a week of being unwell and then a steady return to normality. But in severe cases it can take six months or even longer to clear and it is a leading cause of death among old and seriously ill people. In a person in poor health or with a weak immune system, untreated pneumonia can cause oxygen levels to fall so far that body tissue is starved particularly in the heart and brain of the oxygen it needs to function.

In a healthy person, rest and plenty of water plus antibiotics if it is bacterial can suffice as their natural defences kick in. If symptoms are severe (more common with bacterial infections), hospital treatment will be needed. Patients will receive antibiotics and fluids through a drip, and may need oxygen to help them breathe. In very serious cases patients may be put on a ventilator.

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Pneumonia: what are the symptoms and who is at risk? - The Guardian

TOKYO Lurking deep inside some tumours are "factories" full of immune cells that help the body fight a rearguard action against cancer and are key to helping some patients recover, new research has shown.

In recent years, doctors have turned to a new treatment for cancer - immunotherapy - that works by leveraging the body's immune system to fight tumours.

The technique has largely focused on white blood cells called T-cells, which are "trained" to recognise and attack cancer cells.

But the innovative treatment works well for only around 20 per cent of patients, so researchers have been trying to understand why some people respond better than others.

Three papers published last Thursday in the journal Nature point the way, identifying a key formation inside some tumours: tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS).

TLS function like factories or schools for immune cells that help the body fight cancer, said Professor Wolf Fridman, a professor emeritus of immunology at the Cordeliers Research Centre of the Paris Descartes University medical school, who led one of the studies.

He said the cells need to be educated in "schools" - the TLS - where they learn to recognise and attack cancer cells.

Key to the findings is that T-cells are far from the only immune cells capable of taking the fight to cancer. Researchers found the TLS were full of B-cells, a kind of immune cell that produces antibodies.

"We have been T-cell addicts for 15 years in cancer," Prof Fridman said. "We analysed these sarcomas to see what groups they had and what's striking is that these B-cells appeared."

Dr Beth Helmink, a fellow in surgical oncology at the University of Texas' MD Anderson Cancer Centre, who worked on a second study, said the research had changed perceptions of the role of B-cells in immunotherapy.

"Through these studies, we find that B-cells are not just innocent bystanders, but are themselves contributing in a meaningful way to the anti-tumour immune response," she said in a statement from the centre.

The discovery is a surprise, as an abundance of B-cells in cancer patients has sometimes been seen as a marker for poor prognosis.

But the studies found patients with high levels of B-cells inside TLS in their tumours were more likely to respond well to immunotherapy.

Dr Louisa James, a lecturer in immunology at Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, said: "This series of studies is exciting because (it represents) real progress in the treatment of different types of cancer."

Dr James, who was not involved in the studies, added: "In the short term, these results provide a new tool to help predict which patients are likely to benefit from treatment with immunotherapy and may also pave the way for improved treatments in the future."

There are still many unanswered questions, including why TLS form in some tumours and not others.

While it now seems clear that B-cells inside the structures play a key role in the success of immunotherapy, scientists are not sure precisely how.

It may be that the B-cells are on the front lines, producing antibodies that attack cancer cells efficiently - or they may be bolstering T-cells, or perhaps even doing both.

And not all TLS are created equal: The researchers found three categories, but only one type was "mature" enough to churn out cancer-fighting immune cells.

The research opens up promising new avenues, the authors said.

Initially, the findings could help doctors screen patients to see which of them are most likely to respond well to immunotherapy.

It could eventually mean more patients are successfully treated with the technique, said Professor Goran Jonsson, a professor of oncology and pathology at Lund University in Sweden, who worked on a third study.

"If we come up with a treatment that could enhance TLS formation, we could combine this with current immunotherapy regimens," he said. "Most likely, this would lead to more patients responding to immunotherapy."

AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE

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Scientists find immune cells that fight tumours from within - The Straits Times

Once-forgotten diseases have returned to the forefront of everyones attention after outbreaks like the recent Measles cases.

Unvaccinated children are around 25 times more likely to get contagious diseases like Measles, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

And unfortunately, unvaccinated children make up a large proportion of children in Michigan. According to I Vaccinate, only 59% of Michigan toddlers are up to date on all of their recommended vaccines.

LISTEN UP: Add theMichigan Medicine News Breakto your Alexa-enabled device, orsubscribe to our daily updates oniTunes,Google PlayandStitcher.

On a larger scale, the World Health Organization named vaccine hesitancy one of the top 10 threats to global health in 2019.

SEE ALSO: Whats Causing the Latest Measles Outbreak?

Misconceptions about the recommended vaccine schedule, or vaccines in general, have led parents to opt out or delay vaccines, putting their children and others at risk of preventable diseases, says Aarti Raheja, M.D., a pediatrician at C.S. Mott Childrens Hospital.

Some parents worry combination vaccines may harm their baby or overwhelm their immune system. This causes parents to delay certain vaccines or follow an alternative, or non-standard vaccine schedule.

The CDC refers to the alternative schedule as non-standard as opposed to alternative, which is how I address it with families because there isnt an alternative, says Raheja. No research has been done on non-standard schedules, so we dont know if they are safe or if a child would be protected.

The 2019 recommended childhood and adolescent immunization schedules have been approved by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Family Physicians.

Raheja adds: The recommended vaccine schedule is the only evidenced-based schedule that has been researched for safety and efficacy. It provides all the necessary protection that can be given to children with the least amount of risk.

Vaccines are added to the schedule based on when an infant is likely to be most susceptible to the disease. Administering vaccines at scheduled intervals provides the broadest immunologic protection to children when theyre most vulnerable, minimizes the number of shots needed and office visits.

Getting all the recommended vaccines at one visit provides the best protection. Studies have shown that spacing out vaccinations over multiple visits causes children more stress and leaves them vulnerable to disease, according to Raheja.

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Follow the Right Path: A Traditional Vaccine Schedule - University of Michigan Health System News

DETROIT (WXYZ) Health leaders from around the world are continuing to monitor the spread of the coronavirus, now responsible for the deaths more than 2 dozen people in China.

The outbreak started in the city of Wuhan.

Two cases of the virus have been confirmed in the U.S one north of Seattle and another in Chicago.

Tonight, were learning the CDC is testing 3 people from metro Detroit for the virus.

Infectious disease specialist Dr. Marcus Zervos stresses that unless youve traveled to the affected region in China, or youve been near someone who has, your chances of exposure are very low.

The virus is contagious person-to-person, so its a good idea to wash your hands and the obvious here avoid travel to Wuhan for right now.

Zervos was just in Wuhan in November as part of his job with the Henry Ford Health System.

The city is building a 1,000-bed hospital. Theyre putting up a 1,000-bed hospital in just a period of a week, Zervos says.

Thats the city of Wuhans emergency response to the outbreak of the coronavirus, something Dr. Marcus Zervos with the Henry Ford Health System says presents a lot like the flu. It can also cause fever, cough, and shortness of breath.

For people in Detroit the risk of getting the infection is very rare. It requires travel to China or being exposed to somebody who has been exposed to the virus or has infection with the virus, says Zervos.

The CDC is now testing 3 people from metro Detroit for the highly contagious virus. But Dr. Zervos says Henry Ford, nor Wayne State where he also works, has been made aware of any extra precautions or concerns related to the virus.

Its a new virus, its something we dont have immunity to. And in that way, it can spread possibly pretty easily between people, says Zervos.

In response to the outbreak, U of M has issued a travel warning for china, and restricted travel to the province where the outbreak started.

Michigan State also sent out a memo to students saying that their following CDC and WHO guidelines, but that at this time no programs are affected.

Symptoms of the virus may appear between 2 to 14 days after exposure, and those with weaker immune systems are most at risk,

But Dr. Zervos says for the average metro Detroiter who hasnt been to that region of China, their biggest health risk this time of the year, should be the flu.

Zervos says the way doctors handle possible cases once theyre confirmed, is quarantine.

Right now, there is now vaccine for the virus.

Coronavirus normally starts in animals and then is transmitted to humans.

In this case, it started at a seafood market in Wuhan. And again, its shared person-to-person, so thats why you see so many people in china, especially using public transit, wearing those face masks.

Zervos says thats not a precaution he thinks is necessary here.

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News Extra precautions being taken in Metro Detroit to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus Jenn - WXYZ

A Nebraska couple have spoken of the horrifying ordeal their child went through as a result autoimmune encephalitisa condition sometimes referred to as "brain on fire."

Omaha residents Christina and Brian Beck first noticed that something was wrong with their 14-year-old daughter Meredith in December 2018, KETV reported.

"I mean, it was horrific. We didn't know what was happening," Christina Beck told KETV. '[Meredith] said 'I sometimes feel really scared and confused, and kind of like I'm going really crazy.'"

Suspecting that Meredith was suffering from mental health issues, the Becks took her to see a psychologist, who prescribed the teen anxiety medications. However, these drugs did nothing to alleviate her symptoms and her condition began to worsen.

"She's starting to act lethargic, she started to say she was hearing voices," Christina Beck said. "She would feel like someone was touching her back and no one was there."

The couple said that Meredith began throwing up frequently and also had extreme difficulty getting to sleep.

"We had no idea what was happening and truly, the pediatrician didn't really know and the psychologist didn't know," Christina Beck said.

Then one day the family received a call from Meredith's school saying that she had been found in a catatonic state.

In response, the couple took her to get an electroencephalogram test (EEG), which measures electrical activity in the brain and can reveal whether patients are suffering from seizures.

However, the EEG did not reveal the source of Meredith's problem. With Meredith often relapsing into a catatonic state, the couple subsequently took her to other doctors. However, none could diagnose her condition.

Eventually, one pediatric neurologistDr. Mary Rickardnoticed a tumor the size of a "deflated football" on her left ovary.

"Immediately, when I saw her, I grew very concerned," Rickard told KETV.

She diagnosed her with autoimmune encephalitis, saying that the tumor was causing Meredith's immune system to attack her own brain. Specifically, it led her body to create antibodies that attacked her brain's NMDA receptorsthe same receptors affected by the mind-altering drug PCP.

"Unless you know what you're looking for, it's sometimes difficult," Rickard said. "If it attacks NMDA, that's what the drug PCP works on. So think of a child acting like they're on PCP all day. That's what we're dealing with."

After discovering the tumor, Rickard booked Meredith in for surgery the next day to remove it, while also treating her with steroids and giving her a blood transfusion.

The treatment was successful and after about a month or so, Meredith had made a full recovery.

"The neurologist told us that 12 years ago, our daughter would have been put in a psychiatric unit and she would've died there... because they didn't know as recently as 12 years ago, what was happening or how to stop it," Christina Beck said.

According to the National Institutes of Health, autoimmune encephalitis refers to a group of conditions that occur when the body's own immune system starts to attack healthy brain cells.

This can lead to a range of symptoms, including impaired memory and cognitive abilities, seizures, balance problems, speech problems, vision problems, psychosis, aggression, euphoria, fear, panic attacks, compulsive behaviors, loss of consciousness and coma.

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Nebraska Family Tells of Daughter's Terrifying Ordeal With 'Brain on Fire' Condition - Newsweek

An unprecedented cold spell has taken over Pakistan and the country, even the safely tropical city of Karachi, has not experienced the kind of chills that it has been suffering this year. In this kind of weather, its understandable that people have chosen to go into hibernation, finding the perfect excuse to stay in bed and not turn up for work. Those who do have to step out of the home have been struggling with warm clothing and temperature control. Fan heaters and inverters have had a lucky run, thanks to the nationwide gas shortage which accompanies harsh winters.

With shorter days and colder weather, amplified by weddings, family reunions and oodles of unhealthy food choices, it tends to get difficult to find the motivation to stay healthy and fit but to counter the general air of overeating and inactivity, there are plenty of wellness tips that may help keep your health on track...

Two-thirds of our body is made of water and therefore, keeping ourselves hydrated is one of the healthiest things to do. Symptoms of dehydration range from headaches to nausea to fatigue but its effects on ones immune system may not always be obvious. If one is hydrated, it keeps mucus membranes moist and, in turn, the immune system functions optimally. The best thing would be to up ones intake of fluids (including of course water), which is incredibly beneficial. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day and see the difference!

Science confirms that poor nutrition impairs the immune response while fresh veggies, fruits, nuts, grains and legumes or pulses are full of immune-boosting properties and antioxidants. It is advisable to eat in season; nature provides fresh, seasonal foods to compensate what our bodies lack at a particular time of the year. For instance, citrus fruits are in season throughout winter and are full of Vitamin C.

Though stress is not always bad, especially when one has a work deadline, studies have linked high stress levels to making a person more susceptible to catching colds and flu. Everyone has a way of coping with and reducing stress; whether its taking a bath, working out, sitting outdoors in the garden or having fun with the kids, do something to unwind. One can also minimize stress by working reasonable hours at their job and using free time to rest and relax alone or with friends and family.

We often overlook the simple things like washing our hands; it is a simple prevention method from germs and diseases. Washing hands regularly with soap for at least 20 seconds, and ensuring they are thoroughly dry, helps control infection. When coughing or sneezing, one should use a tissue and dispose if off. If one becomes mindful of this for a few weeks, it will soon become second nature.

Sleep is essential for ones body to rest, repair and rejuvenate. This is why people look their best after a good nights sleep. The human growth hormone that is released during sleep helps repair ones body at a cellular level besides benefitting the immune system. If one has interrupted or less sleep that the body requires, it significantly reduces the effectiveness of ones immune system; particularly, the natural killer cells which is your bodys first line of defence against germs.

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Take care of yourself this winter! - The News on Sunday

A new study by an environmental watchdog group finds more drinking water systems containing "forever chemicals," including in the D.C. region.

A new report by an environmental watchdog group finds more drinking water systems around the country than previously believed are contaminated by what the group characterizes as high levels of forever chemicals, which arent broken-down over time.

Water systems in D.C. and Prince Georges County, Maryland, were among those with a high amount of the man-made chemicals, known as perfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, according to the Environmental Working Group study.

Of tap water samples from 44 places in 31 states and D.C., only one location had no detectable PFAS, according to the EWG study.

In D.C., the groups testing found 21.7 parts per trillion, while in Prince Georges County, the values were 17.8 parts per trillion.

The advocacy group cites 1 part per trillion of PFAS as a safety threshold.

The Environmental Protection Agency has not set any nationwide limits. However, in a 2016 water health advisory, the EPA recommended a level of no more than 70 parts per trillion, which the agency said offers a margin of protection for all Americans throughout their life from adverse health effects resulting from exposure.

In December, the EPA said it would move forward to study two chemicals that fall under the PFAS umbrella perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFAS) to determine whether it should set a maximum level for those chemicals. The EPA has known about the existence of PFAS in drinking water for almost two decades.

The chemicals, which are used to make carpets, clothing, paper packaging for food, cookware and firefighting materials, have been in use since the 1940s. Exposure to the chemicals over certain limits has been linked to excessive cholesterol levels, ulcerative colitis, thyroid disease, testicular and kidney cancer, and problems in pregnancies, according to the EPA.

John Lisle, of DC Water, acknowledges the utility and scientists are continuing to learn about PFAS chemicals.

Testing in 2014 by DC Water and other local utilities did not detect the chemicals, but the detection threshold was higher, Lisle said. Newer, more precise methods of testing have since been developed to detect very low levels of PFAS.

Still, Lisle said risk to humans is low: The report confirms the PFAS detected in tests conducted in D.C. are at levels well below any established EPA health advisory for these compounds.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, on its website, said the safety risk from PFAS is still unclear: Human health effects from exposure to low environmental levels of PFAS are uncertain. Studies of laboratory animals given large amounts of PFAS have found that some PFAS may affect growth and development, reproduction, thyroid function, the immune system and injure the liver.

Though the environmental advocacy group would like to reduce the amount of PFAS in the nations water, inexpensive home carbon filters, as well as reverse osmosis, and ion exchange water treatment systems appear to be helpful in minimizing risk.

Lyn Riggins, with WSSC Water, which provides tap water in Prince Georges County, said: For more than 101 years, our water has consistently met all Safe Drinking Water Act requirements. In fact, we have never had a single drinking water quality violation in our history.

The [EPA] does not yet regulate PFAS compounds, but maintains a health advisory of 70 parts per trillion for two of the most common compounds, PFOA and PFOS, said Riggins. The EWG analysis reported WSSC Waters total PFAS to be 17.8 ppt, well below the EPAs health advisory.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Study shows high amount of forever chemicals in tap water; local systems respond - WTOP

Today, we will study why Oncolytics Biotech (ONCY) is risky but attractive in 2020.

Oncolytics Biotech is a clinical-stage company focused on the development of an intravenously delivered immuno-oncolytic virus called Pelareorep. The company is targeting solid tumors and hematological malignancies. Oncolytics Biotech has partnered with multiple big pharma players such as Pfizer (PFE), Merck (MRK), and Roche Holding (OTCQX:RHHBY) to explore the efficacy of Pelareorep in combination with oncology drugs belonging to different classes, across a range of cancer indications.

On December 6, the company received notice from Nasdaq that it was in compliance with the exchanges minimum bid price requirement.

The global immune checkpoint inhibitors market is anticipated to cross US$ 25 Billion by 2022. Unlike surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, checkpoint inhibitors do not directly target the tumor cells. Instead, they amplify and accelerate the immune system in the patients body to identify and then destroy the tumor cells.

The market opportunity would have been even higher if immunotherapies would not have failed frequently. A major reason for the failure of immunotherapies stems from the ability of tumor cells to alter the microenvironment and avoid getting identified by the bodys immune system. Cancer cells are not foreign bodies like bacteria and viruses. Hence, the immune system finds it difficult to identify them. Besides, immunotherapies also fail when the patient does not have T-cells. T-cells also require to be at the location of the tumor. There are certain indications where only around 20% of patients are currently benefitting from checkpoint inhibitors.

The immune system is categorized into two types, innate and adaptive. The innate immune system comprises of nonspecific defense mechanisms such as skin, chemicals in the blood, and natural killer cells. This activates immediately or within hours of an antigen's appearance in the body. The adaptive immune system comprises of T-cells, which generate an antigen-specific immune response. Adaptive immunity also involves memory, thereby resulting in improved response to that specific antigen in the future.

To make immunotherapies work, there are three core requirements. T-cells have to be present in the body. These T-cells have to be moved to the location of the tumor. The tumor cells also need to express PD-L1, the target of checkpoint inhibitors. Hence, to make checkpoint inhibitors work, we need to increase the number of T-cells, move them to the location of the tumor, and cause the tumor to overexpress PD-L1.

Oncolytics Biotech is working on Pelareorep, an oncolytic virus that aims to activate the innate and adaptive immune system in the patients bodies. This, in turn, is expected to increase inflammation in tumors, which would cause overexpression of checkpoint inhibitors. This will finally help the immunotherapy to effectively detect the tumor cell.

Oncolytic viruses are retroviruses that replicate only and specifically in tumor cells. Hence, there is no effect on normal tissues. Hence, the goal of oncolytic viruses is to infect and replicate into tumor cells and allow the immune system to identify these tumors.

Pelareoreps genome is double-stranded RNA. The immune system can detect this structure very easily in normal cells. Cancer tissue does not have the ability to identify the double-stranded RNA, thereby allowing the virus to replicate. The companys first patents were based on this understanding of biology.

Pelareorep not only activates the innate immune system to destroy tumor cells but also activates the adaptive immune system. When tumor cells are destroyed by the innate immune systems natural killer cells, it leads to cell debris. Thereafter, the adaptive immune system or T-cells learn to identify the tumor cells based on this debris.

Pelareorep is currently being evaluated in combination with other cancer therapies in metastatic breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, and relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma indications.

Oncolytic Biotech is also developing a biomarker blood test to identify patients most likely to benefit from Pelareorep. In April 2017, the company had reported median OS (overall survival) of 20.9 months in Phase 2 randomized, open-label study in patients with mutated p53 metastatic breast cancer when treated with Pelareorep combined with paclitaxel. This was more than double the OS of 10.4 months seen for patients treated only with paclitaxel. Since the OS benefit is a function of the immune system, the FDA has asked the company to measure the strength of the immune system.

Oncolytic Biotech is using TCR sequencing to evaluate the robustness and reactivity of the patients immune system called T-cell clonality. The biomarker blood test can help evaluate the patients immune reserve and thereby predict the response to this oncolytic virus therapy. Within three weeks, the company can evaluate whether new T-cells are being formed and if the patient is actually responding to therapy.

Oncolytic Biotech has reported the creation of new T-cells and existing T-cells becoming reactive to the tumor for the first early-stage breast cancer patient treated with Pelareorep combined with Roches Holdings Tecentriq in AWARE-1 trial. Unlike normal individuals in an urban setting whose forms 2-3 new T-cell clones every month, the patient had about 450 T-cells. This is a clinical proof of Pelareoreps ability to train the immune system.

The company also demonstrated an increase in T-cells within the tumor as well as at tumor periphery. The company expects to complete enrollment of this study as well as announce interim data in the first quarter of 2020. Oncolytics Biotech also expects final data from this trial in mid-2020.

Oncolytics Biotech, Pfizer, Merck KGaA, and a leading cancer research network, PrECOG, are also studying a combination of Pelareorep, Bavencio, and paclitaxel in three-arm open-label Phase 2 study, BRACELET-1 in metastatic breast cancer indication. The company plans to commence enrollment in this trial in the first quarter and complete enrollment by the fourth quarter of 2020. The company also expects interim data from this trial in the fourth quarter of 2020 and the final data in the first half of 2021.

In May 2018, Oncolytics Biotech received SPA (special protocol assessment) from the FDA for its Pelareorep program in breast cancer indication. FDA recommended the company to identify a biomarker for this therapy before the Phase 3 trial. The agency has also confirmed that only one successful Phase 3 trial will be required for securing approval for this therapy.

In October 2019, the company presented clinical data across 13 clinical studies across various cancer indications, which demonstrated the effectiveness of intravenous delivery for Pelareorep. 81% of the tumors were positive for replicating the virus. Excluding melanoma skin biopsies, the number of tumors with replicating virus was almost 96%.

Pelareorep has demonstrated efficacy in combination with CDK 4/6 inhibitors in early-stage breast cancer indication in pre-clinical studies. The drug is also demonstrating activity in combination with proteasome inhibitor, Amgens (AMGN) Kyprolis (carfilzomib) in an ongoing NCI's sponsored multiple myeloma study. In December 2019, the company announced positive results for a combination of Pelareorep and carfilzomib in multiple myeloma.

Oncolytics Biotech expects interim data from both the above trials in the fourth quarter of 2020.

In November 2019, Oncolytics Biotech announced a partial response of 17.4 months from 1b REO 024 study evaluating Pelareorep in combination with Mercks (MRK) Keytruda in Advanced Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma patients. The partial response has already exceeded the historical overall survival data in this indication. The company is now evaluating this combination regimen in the Phase 2 trial. Oncolytics Biotech expects to complete Phase 2 enrolment by mid-2020 and release final data from the trial in the second half of 2020.

Pelareorep has demonstrated favorable safety and tolerability in these trials.

Oncolytics Biotech has a strong patent estate for Pelareorep, which involves 399 patents worldwide. The composition of matter patent protects the particular strain used in this therapy. This IP estate will protect the therapy from competition till 2028.

Pelareorep scores ahead of other OV (oncolytic virus) therapies in three key aspects of delivery, safety, and efficacy. Unlike other OVs which require intratumoral delivery, Pelareorep is administered intravenously. This will allow nurses to administer Pelareorep with chemotherapy drugs the same way they infuse other cancer therapies. Intratumoral delivery requires specialized training and hence is costlier for the oncologist.

Pelareorep has also been found to target cancer cells across the body, while not affecting normal cells. This systemic mechanism of action is yet to be demonstrated by other OVs. Finally, Oncolytic Biotechs efforts to identify a biomarker for this therapy can help identify patients most likely to benefit from Pelareorep.

Oncolytic Biotechs growth prospects depend solely on the clinical and commercial prospects of its investigational IOV (immuno-oncolytic virus), Pelareorep. This exposes the company to a high degree of business concentration risk. The companys research programs are in Phase 1 or Phase 2 of clinical development.

The probability of final regulatory approval for an asset currently in Phase 1 in oncology indication is only 5.1%. The probability of final regulatory approval for an asset currently in Phase 2 in oncology indication is only 8.1%. Based on these numbers, we see that the company is exposed to a high degree of R&D failure risk.

Oncolytic Biotech has cash of $9.28 million and zero debt on its balance sheet. In the last 12 months ending September 2019, the company spent around $12.9 million cash on operational activities. While the company is scheduled to earn up to 86.6 million from collaborators, these payments are spread over multiple years. Hence, the chances of a possible dilutive round of funding remain high. The company may also raise some debt to fund its operations.

Finally, the company is not yet profitable and may continue to be loss-making for many more years. This can dampen the companys valuations.

On January 2, Roth Capital analyst, Jonathan Aschoff reiterated the Buy rating and increased Oncolytics target price from $6.80 to $9.0. The analyst expects final data from the Phase 2 AWARE-1 breast cancer trial in the second quarter of 2020. In December 2019, Echelon Wealth Partners Douglas Loe reiterated buy rating for the stock and set target price at $8.43. In May 2019, RBC Capital analyst Douglas Miehm maintained an Outperform rating and set target price at $6.89.

The above table highlights the change in analyst recommendations and target price for the stock since December 2018.

Oncolytics Biotech will not have a steady stream of revenues for the foreseeable future. Analysts expect the company to reduce its loss per share in 2020. However, the improvement will most likely be due to additional equity dilution and not a reduction in net losses.

Oncolytic Biotech stands a solid chance of being an acquisition target for big pharma companies. There have already been many licensing and acquisition transactions in the oncolytic virus space.

In this backdrop, I believe the target price of $6.0 is a likely estimate of the company's share price after 12 months. Although a very risky stock, the companys oncolytic virus technology holds huge promise in the oncology space. Hence, I recommend investors with above-average risk appetite to consider this stock in 2020.

Disclosure: I/we have no positions in any stocks mentioned, and no plans to initiate any positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.

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Oncolytics Biotech: A Small But Very Promising Cancer Player In 2020 - Seeking Alpha

Some people watch what they eat. Paige and Tanner Szczesekhave to watch when they eat.

The two children, ages 6 and 2, from Cheektowaga, have Type 1 diabetes. Like others with their condition, they must take extra insulin before meal and snacks. It takes time to work. Eat too soon, and blood sugar can climb dangerously high a constant worry for their mother, Ashley.

My biggest goal is that my children can just feel like children, she said.

Thanks to a new drug developed with an assist in Western New York, they have more of a chance.

The Food and Drug Administration last month approved of a drug that brings researchers a step closer to developing an artificial pancreas that will provide fast-acting insulin in proper amounts at just the right time for those with diabetes.

Fiasp, made by Novo Nordisk, starts working in 2 minutes, hits full force within 10 minutes and even can be taken shortly after someone withdiabetesstarts eating.

Previous fast-acting insulins took at least two or three times as long to do that job.

The newest drug has been available to adults since 2017, but the Food and Drug Administration wanted testing on children before making it available to them. More than 700 children in 17 countries participated in the clinical trial, including five children ages 13 to 17 who have been patients in the diabetes centers at UBMD Pediatrics and next door at Oishei Childrens Hospital on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus.

This was a big commitment for the families, said Dr. Kathleen E. Bethin, a clinical professor in the Department of Pediatrics in the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo, and a physician at both diabetes centers. The kids were in the study for almost a year. There were a lot of extra blood draws and more blood sugar checks than are typically required.

Fiasp brings diabetes researchers closer to mimicking a closed-loop system that uses a glucose monitor, continuous insulin infusion pump and other technologies to allow people whose bodies dont make insulin to live like those whose do.

The new fast-acting insulin drug Fiasp boosts the prospects for a closed-loop insulin system often referred to as "an artificial pancreas," diabetes researchers in Buffalo and elsewhere say. (John Hickey/Buffalo News)

The goal in the diabetes field is to develop insulin analogs that behave more like natural insulin, which is rapid on, rapid off, meaning its quickly released, then quickly dissipates, said Dr. Lucy D. Mastrandrea, chief of the Division of Endocrinology/Diabetes at UBMD Pediatrics and medical director for the Oishei Childrens Hospital Diabetes Center. Part of the reason this drug was developed was to have a better timeline of action thats closer to natural insulin.

The body breaks down carbohydrates into blood sugar to use for energy. Insulin is a hormone needed to bring glucose from the bloodstream into human cells. When blood sugar gets too low, the process breaks down and can lead to learning challenges, seizures, loss of consciousness and death. When it spikes, especially often and over time, complications include limb amputation, heart and kidney disease, and stroke.

For those without diabetes, the pancreas, liver and other organs work together to automatically and seamlessly produce insulin and adjust levels as needed.

Type 2 diabetes is diagnosed when the body doesnt use insulin properly. It often can be managed through a combination of healthy eating, regular exercise and oral medications. Sometimes, insulin also is needed.

Those with Type 1 diabetes produce no insulin. They need to inject manufactured basal insulin to maintain levels throughout each day, load carbs or take medication when blood sugar levels get too low, and add fast-acting insulin to lower them when blood sugar levels climb.

Nearly 18,000 new cases of Type 1 diabetes are diagnosed each year. The majority of children have Type 1, while the majority of those diagnosed in adulthood have Type 2.

Our goal is to keep them in as best control as possible during their childhood years, so that they're not running the risk of dealing with complications when they're in their 20s and 30s, Mastrandrea said.

Drug-maker Eli Lilly engineered the first human-derived insulin, Humulin, in 1981. The company in 1996 developed a faster-acting insulin, Humalog, which is still routinely used. NovoLog and Apidra are among other brands that can lower blood sugar within 20 to 30 minutes after they are injected through a needle or an insulin pump, said Dr. Paresh Dandona, a leading international diabetes researcher, head of the Western New York Center of Diabetes-Endocrinology in Amherst and distinguished professor and chief of endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism in the UB medical school.

Administering the drugs takes planning and guesswork because eating, exercise, stress, illness and other factors affect blood sugar levels. That means those with diabetes need to predict related dips and spikes well in advance. Mealtimes generally are the most challenging because they can spark pronounced spikes.

The food hits you a lot faster than the insulin does, said Szczesek.

Fiasp changes the equation. The newer formulation of NovoLog includes niacinamide (vitamin B3) to boost the speed of absorption.

There still is a lag, but it's the best thing we have, said Dandona, whose clinic helped with adult trials several years ago and who has prescribed the drug to some of his patients during the last two years, with good results.

Paige Szczesek, 6, of Cheektowaga, looks at her personal diabetes manager, which helps her and others more closely track her blood glucose levels and insulin use. (John Hickey/Buffalo News)

Paige and Tanner Szczesek are on the front end of the learning curve when it comes to keeping a proper balance. Their father, Shane, also was diagnosed as a child with Type 1 diabetes.

Greater speed is a godsend for the children, each of whom has a continuous glucose monitor and insulin pump to help control their blood sugar. Paige also has a personal diabetes manager, as part of her pump, that helps her family determine when she needs more insulin and how much. Sweet treats are always on hand for times when their blood sugar drops.

When she needs more fast-acting insulin, someone needs to decide when to administer it, then see how it's working. Ashley Szczesek uses a smartphone to keep tabs on blood glucose levels for both children. She teams up with Paiges school nurse and teachers to address shortfalls and spikes. There are phone calls or text messages every time blood sugar readings warrant, as well as reports about when and what the first-grader has eaten.

I can't just send my kid into school and say, I'll see you at the end of the day,' Ashley Szczesek said. I have an alarm set on my phone for when they're high or they're low. On top of that, especially during the night, I'll normally set several alarms to get up and check their blood sugars. If they're low, I go wake them up and give them something to bring up their blood sugar. If they're high enough, I give them some extra insulin. Between us as parents and the children, there's a lot of sleep loss."

Paige started using Fiasp last year after the clinical trial ended. Mastrandrea prescribed it off-label. Her brother started taking it a few weeks ago.

Paiges A1c level has dropped by 1 percent, to about 7 percent, higher than those without diabetes but in a good range for someone Paiges age with the condition.

Fiasp can ease the diabetes burden, but not erase it.

Those without adequate health insurance may be unable to cover higher co-pays or other out-of-pocket costs. Some people have not wanted to switch for that reason, Mastrandrea said.

Meanwhile, researchers continue to pursue a biologic cure, as well as an insulin pump that works with a continuous glucose monitor to deliver insulin on a minute-by-minute basis as needed.

In order to do that really well, Mastrandrea said, you want to have insulins that are faster-acting, absorb better and behave the way my pancreas does. Fiasp is in that category.

Some of Dandonas patients already have the most advanced insulin pump, the Medtronic 670G, though the device can be complicated for most adults to use, let alone children, he said, and still needs agents to more quickly bring blood sugars into the balanced range.

Still, for those in the field and for families like the Szczeseks, recent progress has been nothing short of remarkable.

Early prototypes of closed-looped models like the 670G once weighed two to three times that of adult patients, Dandona said, and now we have a tiny device doing the same thing.

Excerpt from:
Breakthrough diabetes insulin drug developed with help from Buffalo - Buffalo News

The report on the global diabetes devices market provides qualitative and quantitative analysis for the period from 2017 to 2025. The report predicts the global diabetes devices market to grow with a CAGR of 6.

New York, Jan. 24, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Diabetes Devices Market: Global Industry Analysis, Trends, Market Size, and Forecasts up to 2025" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p04947545/?utm_source=GNW 7% over the forecast period from 2019-2025. The study on diabetes devices market covers the analysis of the leading geographies such as North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and RoW for the period of 2017 to 2025.

The report on diabetes devices market is a comprehensive study and presentation of drivers, restraints, opportunities, demand factors, market size, forecasts, and trends in the global diabetes devices market over the period of 2017 to 2025. Moreover, the report is a collective presentation of primary and secondary research findings.

Porters five forces model in the report provides insights into the competitive rivalry, supplier and buyer positions in the market and opportunities for the new entrants in the global diabetes devices market over the period of 2017 to 2025. Further, IGR- Growth Matrix gave in the report brings an insight into the investment areas that existing or new market players can consider.

Report Findings1) Drivers Growing prevalence of diabetes Rapidly changing lifestyles Rising occurrence of obesity2) Restraints Low awareness about diabetes management and monitoring devices3) Opportunities The introduction of advanced insulin delivery devices

Research Methodology

A) Primary ResearchOur primary research involves extensive interviews and analysis of the opinions provided by the primary respondents. The primary research starts with identifying and approaching the primary respondents, the primary respondents are approached include1. Key Opinion Leaders associated with Infinium Global Research2. Internal and External subject matter experts3. Professionals and participants from the industry

Our primary research respondents typically include1. Executives working with leading companies in the market under review2. Product/brand/marketing managers3. CXO level executives4. Regional/zonal/ country managers5. Vice President level executives.

B) Secondary ResearchSecondary research involves extensive exploring through the secondary sources of information available in both the public domain and paid sources. At Infinium Global Research, each research study is based on over 500 hours of secondary research accompanied by primary research. The information obtained through the secondary sources is validated through the crosscheck on various data sources.

The secondary sources of the data typically include1. Company reports and publications2. Government/institutional publications3. Trade and associations journals4. Databases such as WTO, OECD, World Bank, and among others.5. Websites and publications by research agencies

Segment CoveredThe global diabetes devices market is segmented on the basis of type of devices, and end user.

The Global Diabetes Devices Market by Type of Devices Monitoring Deviceso Self-Monitoring Blood Glucose (SMBG)o Continuous Blood Glucose Monitoring (CGM) Treatment Deviceso Manual Injectiono Pumps

The Global Diabetes Devices Market by End User Diagnostic Centers Hospitals Home Care Ambulatory Surgery Centers

Company Profiles Abbott Laboratories F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ag Johnson & Johnson (LifeScan, Inc.) DexCom Inc. Bayer Corporation Arkray, Inc. Sinocare, Inc. Medtronic PLC Sanofi Novo Nordisk Eli Lilly and Company Other companies

What does this report deliver?1. Comprehensive analysis of the global as well as regional markets of the diabetes devices market.2. Complete coverage of all the segments in the diabetes devices market to analyze the trends, developments in the global market and forecast of market size up to 2025.3. Comprehensive analysis of the companies operating in the global diabetes devices market. The company profile includes analysis of product portfolio, revenue, SWOT analysis and latest developments of the company.4. IGR- Growth Matrix presents an analysis of the product segments and geographies that market players should focus to invest, consolidate, expand and/or diversify.Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p04947545/?utm_source=GNW

About ReportlinkerReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place.

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Global diabetes devices market is expected to grow with a CAGR of 6.7% over the forecast period from 2019-2025 - Yahoo Finance

A recent paper outlines an intriguing new theory. The authors ask whether the microbes that inhabit the human body could transfer diseases such as diabetes and heart disease from person to person.

The importance of the microbiome is currently at the forefront of scientific discourse. Experts and the public are equally absorbed by the fascinating influence of microbes on human health.

A new theoretical paper, published in the journal Science, takes the discussion one step further. The authors ask whether conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and chronic respiratory illnesses could be transmitted from one individual to another via the bacteria, fungi, and viruses that live on and in us.

The paper, which is titled Are noncommunicable diseases communicable? is likely to spark lively debate and a glut of new research. Because scientists now believe that the microbiome plays a role in many diseases, the authors ask whether it could also play a part in transmitting diseases among individuals.

Heart disease, cancer, and lung conditions are called noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) because they result from genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors: Therefore, they cannot be passed from person to person.

Over the last 100 years, mortality rates from communicable diseases, caused by infectious microbes, have fallen dramatically. During the same period, mortality rates from NCDs have risen sharply, now accounting for 71% of deaths globally.

Researchers have demonstrated that changes in the microbiome accompany a wide range of diseases, including diabetes, Parkinsons disease, heart disease, and cancer.

At the same time, scientists have found that the composition of our microbiome appears to mirror those of the people we live among.

For instance, the paper explains that unrelated people who live together have more similar gut bacteria than close relatives who live apart. Scientists currently believe that this similarity results from the shared diet and environment of people who cohabit; but could there be more to it?

The authors of the current paper synthesize these ideas; they explain that Some NCDs could have a microbial component and, if so, might be communicable via the microbiota. This would make NCDs communicable.

As it stands, evidence for this brave new theory is circumstantial, but it certainly merits further scrutiny.

The authors refer to a study of 12,067 individuals that spanned 32 years and report that Having an obese friend was associated with a 57% higher chance of being obese, and there was a 40% higher chance of obesity if a sibling was obese.

Once again, this association could be due to diet, environment, and genetics. Friends and siblings may be more likely to live in similar locations and eat similar foods. But aside from shared behaviors, the authors of the present paper wonder whether individuals might pass along certain microbes that increase the risk of developing obesity.

Obesity is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, and if we suppose that obesity is transmissible from our microbiome to anothers, it would imply that diabetes could also be considered a communicable disease.

Of course, this is a theory based on a theory, and there is only circumstantial evidence to back it up. As an example of this evidence, the authors explain that Within a year of a [type 2 diabetes] diagnosis, spouses have a higher chance of developing [type 2 diabetes], and this trend remains over 3 years after the initial diagnosis.

Again, this could just as easily be explained by two people sharing an environment and dietary habits.

More convincingly, the authors refer to results of various studies that have found that transferring feces from one mouse with a certain disease to another mouse without that disease can cause the second animal to develop the illness; they write:

[Fecal microbiota transplant] of dysbiotic microbiota from individuals with various NCDs into healthy animals results in disease, such as [cardiovascular disease, irritable bowel disorder, type 2 diabetes], and many others.

In short, the authors explain that disturbances in the microbiome can produce disease and that when scientists transplant these microbial communities into another animal, that animal becomes sick. They continue:

These observations suggest that the microbiota could be a causal and transmissible element in certain diseases that have been traditionally classified as NCDs.

This theoretical road may run both ways, too; the authors outline how transmissible microbiota, especially early in life, may also have a protective role against NCDs.

To date, bacteria are the most studied components of the microbiome, but it is possible that viruses which outnumber resident bacteria could also play a role in making NCDs transmissible.

As the authors write, scientists will need to carry out specific research to prove whether NCDs can, in fact, be communicated. Distinguishing between the effects of environment and any effects of microbial transfer will be challenging indeed.

This recent paper, however, is not meant to convince us that gut bacteria are transferring NCDs throughout the population. The authors simply hope that their hypothesis stimulates additional discussion and research. It is sure to do just that.

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Can you 'catch' heart disease, cancer, and diabetes? - Medical News Today

Its often said that Alzheimers disease is the medical condition people fear mosteven more than cancer. This is understandable, considering the staggering statistics around Alzheimers and the fact that, at least so far as we currently know, there are no truly effective treatments and no cure. (According to the Alzheimers Association in the US, between the years 2000 and 2017, deaths from Alzheimers disease (AD) increased 145%,1 while deaths from other noncommunicable conditions, such as heart disease, actually decreased. In the US alone, approximately 5.8 million people are living with Alzheimers, and this is projected to more than double to about 13.8 million people by 2050.)

Alzheimers may seem mysterious, and the lack of progress toward treatments has been disheartening, but a robust body of scientific evidence suggests that this illness may be a metabolic condition rooted in dysregulated glucose metabolism and insulin signaling.2,3 With this in mind, lets take a closer look at the connections between type 2 diabetes and Alzheimers.

Alzheimers disease is sometimes referred to as type 3 diabetes and has also been described as brain insulin resistance.4,5 In fact, associations between metabolic syndrome (a.k.a. insulin resistance syndrome6) and cognitive impairment are so strong that researchers have coined the term metabolic cognitive syndrometo emphasize these links.7,8,9 The primary malfunction in the brain of someone afflicted with AD is that neurons in affected regions lose the capacity to metabolize glucose properly.10,11 Being unable to harness energy from glucose, these cells atrophy and wither, and the resulting breakdown in neuronal communication may be what leads to the memory loss, cognitive impairment, personality changes, and other hallmarks of the illness.12

Weve known since the research of Rosalyn Yalow in the 1960s that T2D is a disease of too much insulin (unlike type 1 diabetes in which there is not enough insulin). Many researchers believe T2D is the final stage of chronically elevated insulin. Another factor affecting proper insulin secretion and development of type 2 diabetes is the accumulation of fat in the pancreas. (Compromised liver function resulting from the buildup of fat in the liver is called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, or NAFLD. The analogous condition in the pancreas is non-alcoholic fatty pancreas disease15, although it is not as widely recognized as NAFLD.) Abnormal accumulation of fat in the pancreas may interfere with healthy beta cell function and insulin secretion, and is associated with increased risk for type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.16,17,18

In some people, chronically elevated insulin can precede a T2D diagnosis by a decade or more. Theres a parallel in Alzheimers: in people at risk for AD, reduced brain glucose metabolism is measurable when theyre in their 30s and 40s.19 At this young age, though, they are cognitively healthy and show no signs or symptoms of AD. Even though the brains energy supply from glucose is already compromised, the brain is able to compensate and overcome this fuel shortage. Its only when the damage is so severe and widespread and the brain is no longer able to compensate that problems with cognition and memory begin to manifest.

Turning back to T2D, for many people, the elevated fasting blood glucose or A1c that would trigger a diabetes or pre-diabetes diagnosis is a late developmentin the disease process. Chronically high insulin preceded this for some length of time, going undetected because measuring insulin levels is not a routine part of a checkup or standard bloodwork. In the same way, its possible that the memory problems and cognitive impairment associated with AD are late developments, becoming apparent after years or possibly decades during which the brain has suffered from a progressive decrease in energy.20

Disruptions in either the supply of fuel to the brain or the brains ability to usethis fuel can have catastrophic consequences for cognitive function. The brain accounts for just 2% of a typical adults body weight, but it consumes as much as 20-25% of the bodys glucose and oxygen:

Given the high energy requirement of the brain and its critical dependence on the delivery of a constant supply of fuel, the consequences of leaving such an energy shortfall untreated can be dire. When the brains energy supply is insufficient to meet its metabolic needs, the neurons that work hardest, especially those concerned with memory and cognition, are among the first to exhibit functional incapacity (e.g., impairment of memory and cognitive performance).21

People with type 2 diabetes have an increased risk for Alzheimers disease and other types of dementia compared to those without diabetes.22,23,24 However, even in the absence of high blood sugar, people with chronically high insulin are also at greater risk for AD. In fact, one study showed that risk for AD was highest among people with elevated insulin but who were notdiabetic.25 In a study of subjects with newly diagnosed T2D or pre-diabetes who had seemingly normal cognitive function, greater insulin resistance was associated with reduced brain glucose metabolism and subtle cognitive impairments.26 Its possible that hyperinsulinemia and a disruption in brain fuel usage are the first dominos to fall in the Alzheimers cascade, setting the stage for future cognitive decline.

An interesting point to note is that while elevated insulin in the bloodappears to be a major risk factor for AD, many AD patients havelowerthan normal insulin levels in the brain.27,28 Insulin is not required to transport glucose across the blood-brain barrier, nor for neurons to take up and use glucose. However, insulin receptors are scattered richly throughout the brain, and insulin is believed to play a role in facilitating healthy cognition and the viability and proper functioning of neurons.29,30

Chronically elevated blood glucose and/or insulin have negative impacts on nearly every organ and tissue system in the body: the eyes, the kidneys, the skin, the liver, the ovaries, the prostate gland, nerve cells, and more. The brain is no less susceptible to the detrimental effects of deranged glucose metabolism. In fact, owing to its high energy demands, it might even be moresusceptible than other parts of the body, and Alzheimers disease could be the most severe manifestation of this.

Written by Amy Berger, MS, CNS

Amy Berger, MS, CNS, is a U.S. Air Force veteran and Certified Nutrition Specialist who specializes in using low-carbohydrate and ketogenic nutrition to help people reclaim their vitality through eating delicious foods, and showing them that getting and staying well don't require starvation, deprivation, or living at the gym. Her motto is, Real people need real food! She blogs atwww.tuitnutrition.com, where she writes about a wide range of health and nutrition-related topics, such as insulin, metabolism, weight loss, thyroid function, and more. She has presented internationally on these issues and is the author ofThe Alzheimer's Antidote: Using a Low-Carb, High-Fat Diet to Fight Alzheimers Disease, Memory Loss, and Cognitive Decline.

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The Connection Between Type 2 Diabetes and Alzheimer's Disease - A Sweet Life

MCALLEN, Texas Just a day before Matthew Garrett and his family were to celebrate his 3rd birthday, matthew became lethargic and was not himself. Even wanting to cancel his Chuck E. Cheese birthday party. It was the weekend so his parents researched his symptoms online.

Harlan Garrett, Matthews father, We really didnt like what we were reading. We didnt tell each other because we were really hoping and praying that we were wrong.

First thing on a Monday morning a visit to his pediatrician showed Matthew had a blood sugar reading of 654.

He goes your son had diabetes. Ive already contacted the hospital we have a room ready for him to go in there. You do not go home, you do not go get clothes. Said Harlan Garrett.

Matthew had Type 1 Diabetes and it took 8 days to stabilize him, leaving his parents time to wonder what they did wrong. Harlan Garrett says after leaving the hospitalhe was lost and wanted answers. The answers would from the South Texas Juvenile Diabetes Association.

Debra Franco, Executive director, STJDA, We work really hard to work with our local hospitals to make sure that families know upon diagnosis that they are not alone in their journey. That theres a local organization thats there for them.

Debra Franco says the organization was born out of sheer need. It was founded 8 years ago after her own son was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes and sent to Driscoll Childrens Hospital in Corpus Christi for treatment. She said there were no doctors or hospitals in the Valley who could treat him.

Its just really frightening not to have a support system when you have a child that has been diagnosed with a chronic disease. Said Franco.

The organization is often the first resource for parents through programs like the Shot Spot Bears Program. With Type 2 Diabetes on the rise with children in the Valley, educational outreach programs like Stomp Out Diabetes, which reached more than 22,000 children.

Felipe Salinas, Board President STJDA, Families receive that box along with helpful literature books to get them started in the journey and a form they can fill out asking them for information so they can reach out to them.

Matthew Garrett is now 5 and has his diabetes under control. Thanks to a monitor which test his blood sugar every five minutes sending a notification to his parents smartphone.

Matthews doctor says his diabetes stems form a virus which attacks cells in his pancreas blocking it from producing insulin.

Harlan Garrett says he cant say enough good things about STJDA and all the support his family has received.

Franco adds, We are there to support families. We ourselves are families dealing with this disease. The compassion is there, the empathy is there and the support system is there.

Thanks to the work the South Texas Juvenile Diabetes Association does, there are now three pediatric endocrinologists in the Valley and every hospital can now treat children with diabetes.

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South Texas Juvenile Diabetes Association helping families struggling with the disease - KVEO-TV

With 2019 being such an environmentally-focused year. It is no surprise that this years CES 2020 was focused on renewable energy, but it didnt stop there. Health technology is always an important sector at CES 2020. There were two wearable devices that allow diabetics to control their glucose levels through non-invasive methods in a new, innovative way. There are advantages for users, but they also have their limitations.

The Add Care Glutrac

The Glutrac by Add Care aims to provide non-invasive continuous glucose monitoring. Considering that more than 29 million people in the United States have diabetes, the Glutrac hasnt fully made good on their promise to do so.

While achieving the level of accuracy not only helps a person monitor their glucose levels without pricking their finger, it provides the data you need at any given moment. Currently only the thing that is close to this are sensors that enter interstitial fluid, which require a small amount of penetration. The watch claims to be able to detect glucose levels from just optical sensors. Add Care, which is a company from Hong Kong, needs to prove the upmost accuracy to get approved by the FDA.

The goal of Glutrac is to monitor blood sugar without pricking your finger to get blood. These new technologies use artificial intelligence to estimate the persons glucose levels. In its early stages, this technology could expect to see more of these products at CES.

Basically the Glutrac is a smartwatch that will measure blood sugar. It watches your vital signs, including heart rate and uses AI to calculate glucose. According to the site MoneyPug, which is known as a platform to find the best health insurance, the watch has sensors on the back of the watch that can record health data every 15 minutes, providing data on where your blood sugar is at interminably. Furthermore there is a sensor to watch where you can take on-demand readings. The process takes about one minute to measure and analyze in the cloud and deliver measurements.

AerBetic

Believe it or not, dogs can smell when your blood sugar is fluctuating. AerBetic was designed a device using this idea. Not only can this help you recognize the pain and expense of traditional diabetes management, it can help you keep track of your glucose levels. For a while there has needed to be a change in the way we approach diabetes. AerBetic uses the latest gas-sensing technology to create a truly non-invasive, affordable, and wearable diabetes product.

AerBetic is a non-invasive wearable diabetes monitor that continuously provides your blood sugar levels. It also comes with an application that allows the user to set up alerts in order to communicate to a network of health care providers.

To monitor the changes in blood sugar levels, the AerBetic uses a nano sensor that detects gases humans emit. Scientists have identified that this can be an early indicator of conditions such as hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.

Nano sensors are the core technology of the AerBetic. These devices are customized to the application. The sensors acts like a dogs nose, and it has the ability to sense multiple gases simultaneously. These low detection levels are necessary to monitor your blood sugar.

Health & Tech

Like renewable energy, the health industry is going to be revolutionized by technology. There is seemingly no end to the innovations that technology will provide for health and health care. As the health of our world continues to fluctuate with foods full of sugar and fat and we exercise less and sit at our desks. With such a pervasive disease like diabetes, new technologies are essential.

Despite that renewable energy and eco-friendly products took center stage at CES 2020, health will continue to be a focus of the conference. Not only is creating a closed loop insulin dispenser a key issue for diabetes, these non-invasive wearables will sense when your blood sugar is fluctuating. Diabetes isnt the only disease that could be facilitated by technology, the whole industry will change as new technologies like these become more commonplace. It will continue to be a focus of the CES conference, just like renewable energy products.

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Two Innovative Wearables Took Diabetes Control to the Next Level at CES 2020 - HealthTechZone

Emily Marrison, Columnist Published 11:00 a.m. ET Jan. 25, 2020

For better and for worse, we all inherit particular characteristics from our parents.

Maybe its our mothers eyesor maybe our fathers temper. Some of that is directly the result of the DNA weve receivedand some of it comes from the influence they exerted in our environment.

Emily Marrison(Photo: Submitted)

When it comes to our health and wellness, it can be challenging to determine whether nature or nurture has more of an impact. In some cases, it may not really matter. But when it causes you to feel powerless or apathetic about how much you can change your condition, it definitely matters.

Results of a long-term study were recently published in the Journal of the American Medical Association of Cardiology. The study tracked data on more than 2,500 Americans who were followed for decades from young adulthood in 1985 to 2010. One of their findings is that body mass index (BMI) in youth appears to be the best predictor of long-term obesity risk.

There have been other studies in recent years that have identified certain genes that are believed to be responsible for a person becoming overweight and obese. There are rare inherited causes of obesity, but this is not the case for the majority of the population. This study suggests that daily lifestyle is the more important factor for determining our weight.

When we look at the BMI of children, this is showing the result of genetics as well as environment. The genes we inherit can certainly make us more susceptible to weight gain, but that doesnt mean it is inevitable. Hopefully, this research can empower people to know that being obese doesnt have to be someones destiny. Their healthy lifestyle choices the foods they eat, their portion sizesand physical activity can result in a better quality of life.

According to the National Heart, Lungand Blood Institute, being overweight or obese increases your risk of developing heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, gallstones, breathing problems and certain cancers. A European study linked obesity to a nearly six-fold increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

If you are looking for ways to learn more about healthy lifestyle choices while managing diabetes, theOSU Extension has some great resources available. I am pleased that we will be partnering with the Coshocton Regional Medical Center this April to offer Dining with Diabetes. This is a cooking school and nutrition education program designed for people with diabetes and their family members or caregivers.

Dining with Diabetes will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Mondays April 6 to 27 at Coshocton Regional Medical Center, 1460 Orange Street, Coshocton. The cost of the program is $20 per person and includes all four classes, educational handoutsand small-sized meals that feature a variety of recipes. You are encouraged to also register a support person to attend with you for an additional $5. You can find more details and registration information at coshocton.osu.edu.

Today, Ill leave you with this quote from Billy Graham, When wealth is lost, nothing is lost; when health is lost, something is lost; when character is lost, all is lost.

Emily Marrison is an OSU Extension Family & Consumer Sciences Educator and may be reached at 740-622-2265.

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Genetics and lifestyle can be obesity risks - Coshocton Tribune