StemCell Therapy

The new skin care line is expected to be launched in the third calendar quarter of 2017. CBD Biotechnology Co. Ltd. plans to use multiple sales channels to implement its sales plan including Tmall, TaoBao, the Company's official website, broadcasting platforms of internet celebrities, mobile news applications, and a multi-level direct selling system in cooperation with Shangdong Yibao Biologics Co. Ltd.

"Following the launch of OptHemp Ultra Premium Hemp Oil by CIIX's wholly owned U.S. subsidiary, ChineseHempOil.com, Inc., I am very pleased to announce the launch of CBD Biotechnology Co., Ltd. non-industrial hemp infused skin care line," says Summer Yun, CEO of CBD Biotechnology Co., Ltd. "CBD Biotechnology Co., Ltd. will be one of the first companies in China to incorporate hemp-based CBD into skin care products, which we believe will spark public interest.

"An estimated 55,700 metric tons of industrial hemp are produced around the world each year with China, Russia, and South Korea leading in production, accounting for 70 percent of the world's industrial hemp supply. Although China is one of the leading producers of industrial hemp, the benefits to the human body have not yet been widely recognized in mainland China," says Yun. "As one of the companies company to introduce a skin care line infused with hemp-based CBD to China, CIIX looks forward to educating the almost 1.4 billion people in China about the benefits of hemp-based CBD and the positive effects it can have on the largest, visible human organ - the skin!"

About ChineseInvestors.com (OTCQB: CIIX)

Founded in 1999, ChineseInvestors.com endeavors to be an innovative company providing: (a) real-time market commentary, analysis, and educational related services in Chinese language character sets (traditional and simplified); (b) advertising and public relation related support services; and (c) retail, online sales and direct sales of hemp-based products and other health related products.

For more information visit ChineseInvestors.com

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Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain as they are based on current expectations and assumptions concerning future events or future performance of the company. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are only predictions and speak only as of the date hereof. In evaluating such statements, prospective investors should review carefully various risks and uncertainties identified in this release and matters set in the company's SEC filings. These risks and uncertainties could cause the company's actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements.

Contact: ChineseInvestors.com, Inc. 227 W. Valley Blvd, #208 A San Gabriel, CA 91776

Investor Relations: Alan Klitenic +1-214-636-2548

Corporate Communications: NetworkNewsWire (NNW) New York, New York http://www.NetworkNewsWire.com +1-212-418-1217 Office Editor@NetworkNewsWire.com

SOURCE ChineseInvestors.com, Inc.

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ChineseInvestors.com, Inc.'s Wholly-owned Foreign Enterprise, CBD Biotechnology Co. Ltd., Will Launch its First Hemp ... - PR Newswire (press release)

European venture capitalist Seventure Partners and Johnson & Johnson have invested US$12m in Israel-based DayTwo. Based on HbA1c, lifestyle factors and genetic analysis of the individual microbiome, the companys app analyses the individual microbiome to predict blood sugar responses to thousands of different foods.

Seventure Partners said it ran the investment through its Health for Life Capital investment vehicle, as part of a $12m series A fundraising.

DayTwo has exclusively licensed technology from Weizmann Institute to predict how a specific diet impacts the individual blood glucose level. After the companys app is fed with HbA1c results, lifestyle factors and sequence analyses of the individual microbiome, its machine-learning predictive algorithms provide personalised nutrition recommendations on a users smart device.

Seventure Partners announced its investment was made in syndication with Johnson & Johnson as well as historical investors. DayTwo wants to use the fresh capital to commercialise its product internationally beyond Israel and develop new products tailored for other user segments. According to DayTwo, currently, the app is marketed in Israel as a wellness product that targets highly-motivated consumers, giving them insight into how to manage the food choices that are best for them. The company is currently preparing the US market launch with the same purpose.

However, the companys ultimate goal is to additionally enter a higher-price market segment for its app: as a proven medical product that prevents or slows the development of diabetes. In February, DayTwo joined forces with J&J susidiary Janssen Biotech to develop personalised microbiome analysis for diabetes nutrition. The cooperation is designed to provide clinical data that will help DayTwo to submit the product for approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and corresponding authorities in other countries.

According to Seventure Partners CEO Isabelle de Cremoux, DayTwo rounds out our microbiome portfolio. Current investments include French Enterome SA (microbiome modulator drugs, diagnostics and companion diagnostics), LNC (drug-probiotic and nutrition microbiome-modulator products), Maat Pharma (autologous microbiome transplant), TargEDys (bacteria for regulation of appetite) and Vedanta (drug-probiotic).

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Diabetes: J&J and Seventure Partners launch investment - European Biotechnology

IShares Nasdaq Biotechnology Index Fund (NASDAQ:IBB) was lowered by investment analysts at crowd sourced stock rating company Vetr from a buy recommendation to a hold recommendation in a research note released to investors and clients on early Mon, Jun 5th. Firm has a $307.00 PT on the financial services providers shares. Vetrs target price points a possible drop of 1.25% from the firms prior close.

IShares Nasdaq Biotechnology Index Fund (IBB) transacted up 1.443% through out intraday market trading on early Mon, topping $315.375. 899,883 stocks of the shares transacted hands. Companys 50 Day SMA is $293.14 and its 200 SMA is $286.87. iShares Nasdaq Biotechnology Index Fund has a 1 year low of $240.30 has a 1 year high of $316.00.

On the other hand, Credit Suisse Group boosted iShares Nasdaq Biotechnology Index Fund from a market weight recommendation to an overweight recommendation in a study on Tue, Mar 21st. The move was based on the current stock valulation.

Most recently the business also announced a periodic dividend, expected to be paid on early Fri, Jun 30th. Investors with a record date on Early Thur, Jun 29th will be given a $0.1768 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tue, Jun 27th. this indicates a $0.71 dividend on a yearly basis and a payout of of 0.23%.

Quite a few investment firms and many large funds have acquired or sold some of the position in IBB. Morgan Stanley upped its stake in iShares Nasdaq Biotechnology Index Fund by 16.3% in the Q1. Morgan Stanley has an ownership of 1,774,505 stocks of the financial services providers shares valued $520,408,000 after scooping up an extra 248,914 shares through out the quarter. JPMorgan Chase boosted its position in stocks of iShares Nasdaq Biotechnology Index Fund by 45.7% in the Q1. JPMorgan Chase has an ownership of 782,179 stocks of the financial services providers shares valued at $229,389,000 after scooping up an extra 245,458 shares through out the quarter. Alliancebernstein boosted its position in stocks of iShares Nasdaq Biotechnology Index Fund by 40.9% in the Q1. Alliancebernstein has an ownership of 481,442 stocks of the financial services providers shares valued at $141,192,000 after scooping up an extra 139,657 shares through out the quarter. PNC Financial Services Group boosted its position in stocks of iShares Nasdaq Biotechnology Index Fund by 1.0% in the Q1. PNC Financial Services Group has an ownership of 210,978 stocks of the financial services providers shares valued at $61,872,000 after scooping up an extra 2,112 shares through out the quarter. Lastly, Janney Capital Management boosted its position in stocks of iShares Nasdaq Biotechnology Index Fund by 34.6% in the Q1. Janney Capital Management has an ownership of 110,807 stocks of the financial services providers shares valued at $32,496,000 after scooping up an extra 28,503 shares through out the quarter. hedge fund investors and investment firms has an ownership of 69.06% of the firms stock.

About iShares Nasdaq Biotechnology Index Fund

IShares Nasdaq Biotechnology ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares Nasdaq Biotechnology Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks investment data that correspond generally to the price and pay out performance of the NASDAQ Biotechnology Index (the Index). The Index contains securities of NASDAQ listed companies that are classified according to the Industry Classification Benchmark as either biotechnology or pharmaceuticals, which also meet other eligibility criteria determined by NASDAQ.

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iShares Nasdaq Biotechnology Index Fund (IBB) Rating Reduced by Vetr To Keep - Insider Tradings

Research Firm Zacks boosted Puma Biotechnology (NYSE:PBYI) from a hold recommendation to a buy recommendation in a study note released on Early Thur, Jun 8th. Research Firm Zacks presently has $89.00 price objective on the biopharmaceutical firms shares.

Several stock researchers also recently released study analysis regarding the company. Citigroup boosted Puma Biotechnology to a buy recommendation and fixed a $105.00 price objective on the company shares in a study report on Sunday, May 28th. Stifel Nicolaus reissued a buy recommendation and gave a $105.00 target price on the stock of Puma Biotechnology in a study report on early Mon, Jun 5th. J P Morgan Chase & Co reaffirmed an overweight recommendation and given a $89.00 target price on the stock of Puma Biotechnology in a study report on early Tue, Jun 6th. Royal Bank Of Canada upped their target price on the stock of Puma Biotechnology from $60.00 to $88.00 and issued the shares a sector perform recommendation in a analysis report on Tue, Jun 6th. Lastly, Cowen and Company boosted Puma Biotechnology from a neutral recommendation to an outperform recommendation and fixed a $91.00 price objective on the company shares in a study analysis published on early Thur, May 25th. 1 equity analyst has recommended the share with a sell recommendation, two have published a hold recommendation and six have issued a buy recommendation to The corporation. the share presently has a consensus rating of Buy and an consensus price target of $86.94.

According to Research firm Zacks, Puma Biotechnology Stocks soared quite recently following an FDA advisory committee recommended approval of its lead pipeline candidate, neratinib for the treatment of HER2-positive breast cancers. As a development-stage company, Puma does not have any approved product in its portfolio yet. Thus, The corporation is totally dependent on its lead candidate neratinib for growth. With the latest FDA panel win, the approval of neratinib seems highly likely. An approval would be a huge rise for The corporation issued the immense commercial possible in the recipient market. However, dependence on the successful development and of a single candidate May severely hurt the firms growth prospects in case of any adverse development or regulatory setback. stocks of the company have outperformed the industry in the past 52 week.

Puma Biotechnology (PBYI) started trading at 85.95 on Early Thur. the firms valuation is $3.18 B. the company has 50 day SMA of $59.74 and a two hundred SMA of $42.39. Puma Biotechnology has a 52 week low of $27.64 and a 52 week high of $92.00.

Puma Biotechnology (NYSE:PBYI) previously issued its earnings report on early Wed, May 10th. The biopharmaceutical business posted ($1.97) EPS for the period, reaching the Zacks average forecast of ($2.06) by $0.09. on consensus, financial stock experts expect that Puma Biotechnology to post ($8.50) EPS for the present financial year.

In other Puma Biotechnology news, large stockholder Adage Capital Partners Gp, L.L unloaded 507,128 stocks of the firms shares in a trade dated Mon, Jun 5th. The stock was unloaded at a price range of of $87.84, amounting $44,546,123.52. The information was declared in a document with the securities and exchange commission, which is accessible through this link. executive have unloaded a total of 1,990,088 stocks of company shares valued $157,553,113 in the previous 90 days. corporate executives has an ownership of 22.70% of the firms stock.

Hedge funds have lately adjusted their holdings of The corporation. Bank of Montreal Can bought a new stake in stocks of Puma Biotechnology during the Q1 worth at $195,000. Alambic Investment Management bought a new stake in stocks of Puma Biotechnology during the Q1 worth at $201,000. Parametric Portfolio Associates bought a new stake in stocks of Puma Biotechnology during the Q1 worth at $257,000. Perceptive Advisors bought a new stake in stocks of Puma Biotechnology in Q4 which is worth at $225,000. Lastly, Weiss Multi Strategy Advisers bought a new stake in stocks of Puma Biotechnology during the Q1 worth at $335,000. investment firms and many large funds has an ownership of 80.98% of the firms stock.

About Puma Biotechnology

Puma Biotechnology, is a biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the development and commercialization of products for the treatment of cancer. The corporation focuses on in-licensing the development and commercialization rights to over around three drug candidates, including PB272 (neratinib (oral)), PB272 (neratinib (intravenous)) and PB357.

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Puma Biotechnology (PBYI) Lifted to Buy By Research Firm Zacks - Insider Tradings

GETTY/EXPRESS

Osteoarthritis - a form of arthritis - is a condition that affects your joints and prevents them moving smoothly.

The simplest of everyday tasks such as brushing teeth, getting dressed, opening jars, holding cutlery are often impossible for thousands of people in the UK suffering from crippling hand osteoarthritis.

There is no cure for it currently but certain medications, such as anti-inflammatories can ease symptoms.

Many have to rely on taking daily painkillers and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) long-term, risking serious kidney and stomach complications.

GETTY

However, a product made from rosehip has been hailed by one woman.

Gail Melmoe, 63, a retired hairdresser from West Sussex, said hand osteoarthritis didnt just make simple everyday tasks impossible, it also robbed her of her special moment as mother of the bride on her daughters big day.

I had really looked forward to helping my daughter get into her dress and shoes on her wedding day but I had to resort to using a crochet needle to do the buttons as the joints on my right hand were so stiff and swollen and my daughter ended up having to do up her own shoes which wasnt easy in her beautiful dress, she said.

One study, however, heralds a natural pain relieving compound, a galactolipid known as GOPO, as an alternative offering hope to hand osteoarthritis sufferers.

Getty

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Little everyday things which you take for granted, became increasingly difficult due to my poor grip and stiff fingers,

A research team from the Department of Clinical Biochemistry at Frederiksberg University, Denmark, found that a galactolipid, could help suffers with arthritis.

The product, which is derived from the seeds and husks of fruit from a sub-species of Rosa canina, reduced pain in 90 per cent of participants with hand osteoarthritis during everyday manual activity.

This compared to just 36 per cent of placebo-treated participants.

Experts said there was a 33 per cent reduction in the need for conventional painkillers among participants taking the active compound.

EXPRESS

Gail said: Little everyday things which you take for granted, became increasingly difficult due to my poor grip and stiff fingers, which was extremely frustrating.

I was concerned about the side effects of taking my prescribed anti-inflammatories long term and so relieved to have been introduced to GOPO.

Gail said she has been taking the natural supplement for a number of months and has found day to day tasks are so much easier.

I can keep up with my grandchildren and am so pleased to be able to help them take their shoes on and off several times a day when they come to visit, she said.

Excerpt from:
Natural cure for arthritis - compound in THIS fruit relieves symptoms of osteoarthritis - Express.co.uk

Aching joints can be a real pain, but it turns out your love for seafood could help to mitigate those symptoms

shutterstock

There is nothing fishy going on here: Eating fish could help to reduce disease activity of rheumatoid arthritis. In a recent study, a group of researchers conducted an observational study correlating lower levels of arthritis pain with higher levels of fish consumption.

Published in Arthritis Care & Research, the study split participants into groups by the amount of fish consumed. (One group consumed less than a serving per month, another consumed one serving per month, etcetera, with the most common rate of consumption being more than two times per week.) After accounting for variables like age, medical history, and use of mineral supplements, results revealed that increased fish consumption was related to a significant decline in the severity of arthritis symptoms.

In the past, rheumatoid arthritis patients have typically been recommended fish oil supplements as a method for reducing symptoms. The authors of the study wrote, This is a novel analysis of the relationship between consuming fish as a whole food, rather than consuming fish oil supplements, and rheumatoid disease activity. This is exciting news for arthritis patients it could mean that whole, real foods would work as a form of medicine rather than prescription medication, over-the-counter supplements, and other costly treatments.

Dr. Sara K. Tedeschi, lead author of the study, warns against taking these results too seriously. Not only was this solely an observational study, but the groups being compared were relatively small. This limits the results and makes it difficult to eliminate interfering variables. For example, the group consuming the most fish was also of a lower BMI and a higher socioeconomic status two variables associated with less severe disease activity. However, the group members were also the biggest smokers and had arthritis for a longer period of time variables associated with more severe disease activity. So the results are by no means conclusive.

The types of fish consumed are also important to note the participants of the study werent gorging themselves on deep fried cod and clam chowder. Instead they added more healthful versions, such as baked, steamed, broiled, or raw fish, into their diets.

Arthritis pain isnt the only reason to start eating more fish. A plethora of health benefits have been associated with the healthy protein especially fish containing omega-3s, such as salmon. (Yes, you can eat the skin!)

To get started on incorporating some healthy fish in your life, check out these 15 Easy Fish Recipes for Summer.

The Morning Email

Wake up to the day's most important news.

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New Study Suggests Eating Fish Can Mitigate Arthritis Symptoms - HuffPost

According to experts from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine (Penn Vet), 60 percent of dogs over the age of seven suffer chronic discomfort from degenerative joint disease, more commonly known as arthritis. It often goes unnoticed by the dogs owners, however, because they are not familiar with the signs. Humans talk about pain, and express it by crying or wincing. Dogs will rarely vocalize unless the pain is acutea toenail cut too short, stomach distress, a broken bone.

Signs of chronic discomfort are subtle and can come on so gradually that the dogs person often doesnt notice until a veterinarian points out the changes. A dog whos uncomfortable may slow down, reluctant to run as fast or walk as far as she once did. She may be stiff after lying down, or take longer to get up and moving when its cold or damp outside. An uncomfortable arthritic dog may be grumpier, sleep more and decline to take part in games she used to love.

Unsure if your dog is suffering from arthritis? One of the easiest ways to tell is with a trial of pain medication. Talk with your veterinarian about your concerns, and request a weeks worth of anti-inflammatory medication. While your dog is on the medication, keep a diary and note changes in her behavior. People are often amazed at how youthful their older dogs act once their discomfort is relieved.

Penn Vet assistant professor of small animal surgery Kimberly A. Agnello, BA, DVM, MS, one of the nations foremost researchers in canine pain management, has some advice on how people can help their arthritic dogs feel better.

According to Dr. Agnello, one of the easiest, most cost-effective and beneficial ways to reduce pain associated with arthritis is to maintain dogs at their healthy weight. She described a recent patient with hip dysplasia who came to her overweight and in pain from arthritis. The dog was scheduled for hip surgery, but first the dogs owner was instructed to put the dog on a diet. Turns out that when dog lost weight, he improved so much that he ended up not needing surgery. The dog felt better and his owner saved money on food as well as on the procedure.

Once the pain is controlled, strengthening in the form of rehabilitation exercises is vital to maintaining strength and mobility; even one visit to a canine rehab veterinarian for instruction in how to do these with your dog can be useful. Dogs can also be helped by alternative therapies such as joint supplements (high quality fish oil is an excellent choice; check with your vet for the appropriate dosage), acupuncture and cold laser.

When it comes to medication, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) continue to be the mainstay of pharmaceutical treatment for canine arthritis. These drugs are relatively safe, and generic forms are available. Dogs on NSAIDs long-term require annual blood work to check liver and kidney function.

As with humans, one size does not fit all when it comes to NSAIDs. Most commonly, a veterinarian will start by recommending carprofen, which has been around a long time, is highly effective, more affordable in the generic formulation and tolerated well by most dogs. It may sometimes provoke an upset stomach or diarrhea, and abnormal changes in blood work may also be seen. In that case, most veterinarians will reach for a second or third NSAID, such as deracoxib, meloxicam or firocoxib.

A new anti-inflammatory drug, grapiprant, was approved by the FDA last year for management of chronic canine arthritis pain. A prostaglandin receptor antagonist, it specifically blocks the EP4 receptor, which is the primary receptor involved in arthritis pain. It is considered safer than many of the other NSAIDs available because its mechanism of action is so specific, meaning that it does not affect other systems in the body like other NSAIDS might. Grapiprant is labeled for use in dogs as young as nine months of age, which makes it a good drug for those with early-onset arthritis from hip or elbow dysplasia, but should not be used for dogs smaller than eight pounds.

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New Pain Management for Canine Arthritis - The Bark (blog)

The European Commission (EC) approved Regenerons and Sanofis interleukin-6 receptor (IL-6R)-targeting monoclonal antibody (mAb) Kevzara (sarilumab) combined with methotrexate for treating moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in adults who cannot tolerate or who do not respond adequately to one or more disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Regulatory approval in Europe also covers Kevzara monotherapy when methotrexate therapy isnt tolerated or is inappropriate. FDA approved Kevzara last month, either as monotherapy or in combination with methotrexate or DMARDs, for treating adults who have had an inadequate response or who are intolerant to DMARDs.

Approval of Kevzara in Europe was based on data from the global SARIL-RA program, which included seven Phase III studies and more than 3000 patients. Results from the Phase III MONARCH trial indicated that Kevzara monotherapy was more effective than AbbVies Humira (adalimumab) monotherapy in terms of reducing disease activity and improving physical function. The Phase III MOBILITY trial showed that Kevzara plus methotrexate reduced disease signs and symptoms, improved physical function, and inhibited progression of structural damage by up to 91% when compared with methotrexate plus placebo. In the Phase III TARGET trial, Kevzara plus a DMARD reduced disease signs and symptoms and improved physical function compared with DMARD plus placebo.

Commenting on EC approval of the antibody, Elias Zerhouni, M.D., president, global R&D at Sanofi, said, "Kevzara works differently from some of the other most commonly used biologics, and its approval is good news for the many patients where a high unmet need remains."

"We are pleased to bring Kevzara to European patients who may not be responding to the most commonly used biologics, such as tumor necrosis factor inhibitors, or who may be seeking an effective monotherapy to reach their treatment goals," added George D. Yancopoulos, M.D., Ph.D., founding scientist, president, and CSO at Regeneron.

Sanofi and Regeneron teamed up in 2007 to identify targets and develop antibody treatments for multiple therapeutic indications. Earlier this month, the firms presented positive data from the Phase IIIb/IV ODYSSEY-DM INSULIN and ODYSSEY-DM DYSLIPIDEMIA studies evaluating their globally marketed cholesterol-lowering PCSK9 antibody Praluent (alirocumab) in patients with diabetes and hypercholesterolemia. Data from the studies was presented at the recent 77th Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association in San Diego, CA.

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Sanofi, Regeneron Win EC Approval of Kevzara for Rheumatoid ... - Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News

It is a known way to relieve pain in people, and now the Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence, Rhode Island, is one of the first in the country to try acupuncture on a giraffe.

A nearly 2,000-pound patient named Sukari suffers from arthritis. The life expectancy for the species is usually in the teens, but Sukari is 24 years old and showing signs of aging.

When she started slowing down, the animal keepers and other veterinary professionals started various medical treatments before deciding to introduce acupuncture.

There were a lot of things we had to consider, Dr. Jeremy Goodman, the zoos executive director, said. Will the giraffe tolerate it? Would it be effective? Would the keepers be able to administer it, and how safe would it be?

Officials brought in a certified veterinary medical acupuncturist who used to intern at the zoo to begin treatments in March.

She had a little bit of hesitation right at the first treatment, some of the tail flicking and swishing, said Dr. Diva Malinowski Green.

While she administers the acupuncture, the keepers feed Sukari as a way to distract her and give her positive reinforcement for standing still.

The treatment for the animal is similar to human acupuncture in that the goal is to relieve pain by hitting certain points that reduce inflammation and assist with blood flow. The needles are also the same, even though the animal patient is much bigger.

The points are very much the same across species; however, because this species is built a little bit differently, you have to adapt the points, Green said.

After 45 minutes and 14 needles focused on the area around her hips, Sukari is finished with the session. She receives the treatment every other week, and so far, those at the zoo believe it is working.

We think it really is keeping her arthritis at bay, Goodman said. We know eventually her time will come, but until that point, and we hope its not for a while, shes going to have a great life here.

Published at 9:59 PM EDT on Jun 27, 2017 | Updated at 10:05 PM EDT on Jun 27, 2017

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Aging Giraffe Receives Acupuncture for Arthritis | NBC4 Washington - NBC4 Washington

Reader Charles Wang wrote in to ask if stem cell therapy is approved for use in Singapore. Stem cell therapy refers to the use of stem cells to treat various medical conditions. Mr Wang also asked if it is available, and where one can seek this treatment.

Health reporter Linette Lai answered.

Any new treatment must be backed by sufficient scientific evidence to ensure that it is safe and effective. However, there is not enough scientific evidence yet for stem cell therapy to be approved as a mainstream treatment in Singapore.

There is not enough scientific evidence yet to ensure that stem cell therapy is safe and effective for it to be approved as a mainstream treatment in Singapore. PHOTO: ST FILE

A Health Ministry spokesman said: "To date, stem cell therapy has not been substantiated by sufficient clinical evidence as a form of mainstream treatment for any diseases or ailments and is not available as a treatment in our public hospitals.

"If any registered medical practitioners or institutions want to administer stem cells as a form of medical treatment, it will have to be conducted within the context of clinical trials."

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askST: Is stem cell therapy available in Singapore? - The Straits Times

GETTY

Opticians are urging British people to beware the harmful effects of too much sun exposure on their eyes.

This is because its ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause macular damage.

The most common form is age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

It's the leading cause of sight loss in the developed world.

GETTY

While smoking, a poor diet and genetics can increase risk of macular damage, sun exposure also plays a part.

While smoking, a poor diet and genetics can increase risk, sun exposure also plays a part.

To coincide with this week's 2017 Macular Week, Specsavers are aiming to highlight the importance of protecting your eyes during sunny weather.

This is particularly important given that further heatwaves are expected this summer.

AMD occurs when a persons retinal cells die off and are not regenerated, leading to visual impairment and in some cases, blindness.

SWNS.com

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Miss Devon, Becky Wright (17) enjoys the sunshine and hot weather at the Paignton beach in Devon. June 20, 2017

GETTY

However, its effects can be avoided.

Dr Nigel Best, Specsavers clinical spokesperson, said: "AMD affects more than 600,000 people across the UK. Its a staggering amount - especially when you consider the fact that just a few lifestyle changes can improve your chances of avoiding the condition.

"What a lot of people dont realise is that UV rays can be as harmful to your eyes as they are to your skin, therefore its crucial that people ensure they are wearing sunglasses or UV blocking contact lenses throughout the summer months to protect against the harmful exposure.

"Look for sunglasses that meet the European Safety standards, as well as at least 80% light reduction - that way you know that your exposure to UV light is significantly reduced."

GETTY

Sally Harvey, chief executive of the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), said: "We know that almost half of all cases of sight loss are preventable, and this is why RNIB recommends people protect their eyes from the sun this summer by wearing their sunglasses."

Symptoms of AMD include finding reading increasingly difficult, colours less vibrant and people's faces difficult to recognise.

According to the NHS, it's predicted almost 700,000 people will have late-stage AMD in the UK by 2020.

There's no cure, but there is evidence to suggest that a diet rich in green leafy vegetables can help slow its progression.

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UK heatwave warning: Too much sun exposure can cause BLINDNESS - Express.co.uk

Ironic that on the subject of capital punishment this editorial demonstrates some of the blindness. While the penal system keeps Mr. Rodriguez on death row and attorneys currently engaged in evidentiary hearings to uncover improprieties of the 2006 trial that led to the sentencing, the writers seem to give more attention to the cost to taxpayers than to examining the inherent injustice of capital punishment.

If we acknowledge that God is the creator of all life and that God is love and never withdraws that love from the people God has created with worth and dignity, that means that Mr. Rodriguez and other "degenerates"(words from the editorial) like him continue to be loved by God.

In this case, a horrible crime was committed and many innocent people suffer today because of it, especially the families of Dru Sjodin and Mr. Rodriguez. Perpetrators must take responsibility for their actions, and in the case of homicide, accept a rigorous punishment imposed by the justice system. And in the instances of homicide by capital punishment, who holds the United States culpable?

The editorial concludes with the question: "What good comes from keeping Rodriguez alive?"

An immediate good among others, would be to see a decrease in the number of murders committed by the United States in the name of us, the citizens.

Sister Pat Murphy CSJ

Crookston

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Letter: Recent opinion shows blindness by Herald | Grand Forks ... - Grand Forks Herald

Newswise Industrial biotechnology scientists, educators, entrepreneurs and executives from around the globe will be convening on the University of California San Diego campus this summer to explore the latest advances and world-changing innovations heating up the white-hot field of industrial biotechnology with workshops in microbial fermentation and metabolic engineering.

UC San Diego Extension will host its annual Industrial Biotechnology Workshops on Aug. 14 through 18. Participants can attend the whole program or attend the workshops on microbial fermentation or metabolic engineering separately.

Now in its fifth year, this widely acclaimed educational event creates an informal, intimate environment for robust exchange of knowledge and ideas among world-class academic instructors and leaders of cutting-edge companies of every size from startup to mature, said Hugo Villar, associate dean of Professional & Continuing Education for UC San Diego Extension.

Whether from California or China, biotechnology professionals attending these workshops will have a front-row seat to learn about current developments and advanced scientific skills being used to solve some the worlds most difficult problems, Villar said.

Microbial Fermentation

For the past four years, the workshop focused primarily on microbial fermentation, which is the transformation of feedstocks, such as plant sugars, into useful products, like fuels, chemicals, beer or antibiotics, by bacteria, yeast, fungi or algae.

The Microbial Fermentation Workshop will be held Aug. 16 to 18. Participants will be introduced to the fundamental knowledge and practical skills needed to design, develop, optimize, control, scale-up, analyze and troubleshoot fermentation processes.

As one of just a handful of programs in the world that provide in-depth, practically oriented coursework in microbial fermentation, it is expected to draw participants from Connecticut to Croatia.

While workshop participants should have some basic knowledge and experience in fermentation, everyone from scientists to biotech business executives to graduate students could benefit from the microbial fermentation workshop.

This years program features some of the brightest minds in the field, including:

Jeff Lievense, senior advisor of Bioengineering & Technology, Genomatica;

Rachel Dutton, assistant professor of Molecular Biology, UC San Diego;

Michael Japs, senior director of Process Technology, Genomatica;

Jon Hansen, principal of New Leaf Biotech;

Jason Ryder, vice president, Process R&D, Hampton Creek; and

Karen Fortmann, senior research scientist, White Labs.

Five interactive case studies, including production of microbes for cheese and beer, will allow attendees to practice what they learn, while the Fermentation Firing Line segment will offer a lively, open ended forum for posing questions to the instructional team on fermentation-related topics.

In addition, everyone in attendance can participate in a tour of the global headquarters of White Labs, which produces yeast for beer making, and attend a hosted reception in its craft beer tasting room.

Metabolic Engineering

A new segment on metabolic engineering, which will run Aug. 14-15, will also be offered.

Recently named as one of the top 10 emerging technologies by the World Economic Forum, metabolic engineering focuses on the design and development of equipment and processes for manufacturing products such as agriculture, food, animal feed and pharmaceuticals.

Instructors joining the interactive course with case studies throughout the curriculum include:

John Pierce, MIT lecturer and former scientist at multinational firms BP and DuPont;

Adam Feist, project scientist, UC San Diego;

Ben Griffin, senior director, Microbial and Enzyme Engineering, Synthetic Genomics;

Jeff Lievense, senior advisor, Genomatica;

Jim Mills, chief technology officer, BioAmber, Inc.;

Bernhard Palsson, principal investigator, UC San Diego; and

Kristy Salmon, head of research, BP.

Those who attend the Metabolic Engineering segment are also invited to participate in a tour of the global headquarters of White Labs, which produces yeast for beer making, and attend a hosted reception in its craft beer tasting room.

Those interested in finding out more about the upcoming workshops can visit http://extension.ucsd.edu/industrialbiotech , call (858) 534-9353 or email unexbio@ucsd.edu.

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Explore Innovations in Industrial Biotechnology at Upcoming Workshops - Newswise (press release)

Venture Capitalist Biogeneration Ventures has exceeded the target size of its life sciences fund BGV III through investments from the European Investment Banks InnovFin Equity Facility and the Dutch Venture Initiative II.

The third fund of the Dutch company now comprises 66m, 16 more than the BVG IIIs initial target size. Biogeneration did not provide figures about the exact financial contributions of its new investors but said that investments will focus on medtech, diagnostic and drug development companies in Germany and Benelux.

The new fund will build on the first two BGV funds which yielded some success for investors including a 1,55bn divestment of Dezima Pharma into Amgen and the 7bn exit of Acerta Pharma, the largest private exit in Europe in the biotech sector to date.

Four investments have already been made from BVG III into German immuno-oncology company Catalym, and Dutch companies Escalier Biosciences, Scenic Biotech and Varmx, working on autoimmune diseases, target discovery, and haematology, respectively.

Our third fund makes BGV amongst the largest life sciences funds dedicated to seed investments in Europe, said Edward van Wezel, Managing Partner. Over the last decade we have made over twenty investments in the European life sciences ecosystem. Weve observed an ever-increasing interest from pharma in acquiring innovations earlier. With this third closing we are significantly exceeding our target fund size and are delighted with the commitment of EIF and other new and existing investors in BGV III. We expect to reach the maximum fund size of EUR 75m before the end of 2017.

BGV operates as a joint venture with Forbion Capital Partners, providing access to the later stage perspective on early innovation and a global network of experts and pharma companies. The BGV team has broad experience in investment, life sciences, business development, and commercial operations. The team includes experienced biotech entrepreneurs as venture partners and advisors.

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66m Life Sciences Fund focused on Germany and Benelux ... - European Biotechnology

Our mission: providing reliable solutions for the bioprocess market that will enable an improved quality of life

Applikon Biotechnology is a world leader in developing and supplying advanced bioreactor systems from laboratory scale to production scale. We are the only company that can take a customer from the initial screening stage up to full-scale production using the same platform. This minimizes scale-up risks and guarantees the shortest time to market for our customers new product development.

Applikon is known for bringing new technologies to the market. These new technologies offer advantages in process efficiency for research and development as well as pilot plant and production scale processes.

As a focused medium sized company we live by our motto A Step Ahead to differentiate ourselves from other suppliers. Our focus on developing bioreactor systems only, allows us to produce state-of-the-art equipment. This has resulted in a steady growth to the top position of the worldwide laboratory bioreactor market. The basis for our new product development lies in our strong cooperation with leading international universities and institutes.

As a privately owned company our focus is not on short-term shareholders value but on building a healthy company by supplying the best product offering for our customers now and in the long-term future. This is the basis of many long-term relations with our clients all over the world.

All our efforts are focused on supplying the best solution for our clients in the biotech and pharmaceutical industry. Validation and documentation is a vital part of our development procedures and this is extended throughout our whole company.

Applikon Biotechnology is unique in the mini and micro bioreactor range. No other company can offer a complete solution on this very small scale. We develop systems on a small scale that generate results that can be scaled to production scale. At the moment there are thousands of Applikon bioreactors used in the world from small scale R&D up to full scale cGMP production.

Since we started in 1974 we have shown a healthy growth and profit. R&D is done in house in our headquarters in Delft, The Netherlands. Design and engineering is done in house but real manufacturing is outsourced. Final assembling is done in-house (in our manufacturing sites in Delft and Guangzhou) as well as the final testing and documentation. We have our own sales and service organizations in the USA (Foster City, California and Dover, New Jersey), the UK (Tewkesbury) and China (Guangzhou). We have well trained local distributors for sales and service in over 30 countries.

We are continuously executing strategic plans to grow the top-line and strengthen our financial performance. New and ongoing programs are exploring new markets, developing innovative products, improving service to customers, increasing efficiency, and reducing costs.

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Applikon Biotechnology - European Pharmaceutical Review

The National

Late diagnosis can lead to disability for UAE children with arthritis The National According to The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases in US, the most common symptoms of juvenile arthritis are joint swelling, pain, and stiffness that does not go away. Usually it affects the knees, hands, and feet ...

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Late diagnosis can lead to disability for UAE children with arthritis - The National

By Dr. Robert Ashley Published: June 27, 2017 5:00 AM CDT Updated: June 27, 2017 5:00 AM CDT

Dear Doctor: A friend suggested I try MSM crystals for arthritis. What are they, and do they work? If they do, where can I find them?

Dear Reader: Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is an organic sulfur-containing compound naturally found in plants such as Brussels sprouts, garlic, asparagus, kale, beans and wheat germ. It also can be found in horsetail, an herbal remedy. MSM, which has been touted as a treatment for arthritis, is related to a similar compound, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.

MSM may have anti-inflammatory properties, as well, but different from those associated with aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs). Unlike DMSO, which is a liquid applied at room temperature, MSM is a white crystalline compound hence the reference to "crystals."

As for whether it works, let's look at the evidence. A 2011 study performed in Israel assessed its impact on 50 people with arthritis of the knee. Twenty-five patients took a placebo, while 25 took 1.125 grams of MSM three times per day for 12 weeks. At 12 weeks, symptoms had worsened by 14 percent in the placebo group, but had improved by 20 percent in the MSM group. Pain had increased by 9 percent in the placebo group, but had decreased by 21 percent in the MSM group. Note that in this 12-week study, users noted no side effects.

A 2006 study also assessed MSM's impact on people with arthritis of the knee, with 25 people receiving a placebo and the other 25 receiving a 3-gram dose of MSM twice a day. At 12 weeks, pain had decreased by 25 percent in the MSM group, and by 13 percent in the placebo group. The physical function of the knee also improved with the use of MSM, but stiffness improved only slightly as compared to the placebo. This higher dose of MSM was associated with the mild side effects of bloating and constipation. One interesting note: The study authors found no change in inflammatory markers with MSM.

Lastly, a 2004 study from India compared the use of MSM, the use of glucosamine, the use of a combination and the use of a placebo for arthritis of the knee. After 12 weeks, patients who took 500 milligrams of MSM three times a day reported a significant reduction in pain and swelling of the knee. This also was seen in the group who took glucosamine. Those who took the combination of both MSM and glucosamine reported an additive benefit in regard to pain and swelling.

Granted, these are small studies, but they do show a slight benefit from MSM, but even milder than from Tylenol or NSAIDs. In these studies, the medication was used every day for 12 weeks, so I would assume that you would have to take MSM daily for a long period to see the benefit.

One important caveat: We don't know if there are any long-term side effects with MSM. If you do try it, start with 500 to 1,000 milligrams three times per day. That dose can be found in any drug or vitamin store.

Dr. Robert Ashley is an internist and assistant professor of medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles. Send your questions to askthedoctors@mednet.ucla.edu, or write: Ask the Doctors, c/o Media Relations, UCLA Health, 924 Westwood Blvd., Suite 350, Los Angeles, CA, 90095. Owing to the volume of mail, personal replies cannot be provided.

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Could organic compound help with arthritis pain? - NewsOK.com

It is a known way to relieve pain in people, and now the Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence, Rhode Island, is one of the first in the country to try acupuncture on a giraffe.

A nearly 2,000 pound patient named Sukari suffers from arthritis. The life expectancy for the species is usually in the teens, but Sukari is 24-years-old and showing signs of aging.

When she started slowing down, the animal keepers and other veterinary professionals started various medical treatments before deciding to introduce acupuncture.

There was a lot of things we had to consider, Dr. Jeremy Goodman, the zoos executive director, said. Will the giraffe tolerate it? Would it be effective? Would the keepers be able to administer it and how safe would it be?

Officials brought in a certified veterinary medical acupuncturist who used to intern at the zoo to begin treatments in March.

She had a little bit of hesitation right at the first treatment, some of the tail flicking and swishing, said Dr. Diva Malinowski Green.

While she administers the acupuncture, the keepers feed Sukari as a way to distract her and give her positive reinforcement for standing still.

The treatment for the animal is similar to human acupuncture in that the goal is to relieve pain by hitting certain points that reduce inflammation and assist with blood flow. The needles are also the same, even though the animal patient is much bigger.

The points are very much the same across species; however, because this species is built a little bit differently, you have to adapt the points, Green said.

After 45 minutes and 14 needles focused on the area around her hips, Sukari is finished with the session. She receives the treatment every other week, and so far, those at the zoo believe it is working.

We think it really is keeping her arthritis at bay, Goodman said. We know eventually her time will come, but until that point, and we hope its not for a while, shes going to have a great life here.

Published 44 minutes ago

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Aging Providence Giraffe Receives Acupuncture for Arthritis - NBC Boston

SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) Today on Fresh Living were talking about Stem Cell Therapy.

Dr. Steven Warren from Intermountain Health and Wellness joined the show to share information with Casey & Kari about what patients need to know:

Before a patient commits to having a stem cell injection the patient should:

1. That an MRI or CT of the joint has shown the destruction of the tissue and Stem cells are needed to repair the damaged tissue.

2. Confirm that they will be getting a certificate that verifies that the injection will contain, live viable stem cells and at least a cell count of 1 million for most joints in the body.

3. That the doctor has been thoroughly trained in joint injections using guided imaging injections. Such as a C-arm fluoroscopy or Ultrasound.

4. Ensure the procedure will be performed under a strict sterile environment. To reduce the risk of a joint infection.

Intermountain Health and Wellness has a deal for Fresh Living viewers: call in NOW for a consultation to find out what stem cells can do for YOU! First 25 callers will receive a FREE MRI with the procedure. phone (801) 981-8795

For more information, visit: IntermountainStemCells.com

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Stem Cell Procedures: Know Before You Buy - KUTV 2News

In early 2015, 33-year-old Chris Herron was declared legally blind, and was told he had an 80-percent chance of losing his sight entirely in three months. Now, hes almost fully recovered, and has launched an audiobook channel that helps scifi and fantasy authors... just like how they once helped him.

Herron is the founder of Tall Tale TV, a YouTube channel where he makes and releases audiobooks for burgeoning scifi and fantasy works. Before that, he spent almost a year wondering if he would be able to read books again after being diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy, the most common cause of blindness for working-age adults. Its where people with diabetes (Herrons had Type 1 since he was 7) suffer from leaks or bleeding behind the eyes if they dont keep their blood sugar low. He was told hed need surgery in both eyes, and he had a four in five chance of going blind.

[When I found out], I hyperventilated and they had to lay me down. It came as a major shock, I had never even considered the possibility of not being able to see, Herron told io9. I decided I was going to fight it, and I was going to come out the other side regardless what they told me the chances were.

He immediately set out to change his lifestyle losing 30 pounds in the first month from diet and any exercise he could do, which started as guided walks with his wife. He described his sight as like looking through a cloud of ink, which meant he had trouble with many basic tasks. He also lost the ability to read and didnt know how to read Braille. Given his lifelong love of fantasy and science fiction, and how they served as an emotional release during bouts of depression, this hit hard.

It was actually pretty devastating because I loved writing and I loved reading, Herron said. It was actually my wife who suggested I turn to audio books.

The first audiobooks he picked up were from Terry Pratchetts Disc World series, and Herron said they changed his life. Hed listened to audiobooks before, but it was in passing while commuting to work, so he was worried it wouldnt be the same. But Herron was amazed at how much he loved them, saying it gave the book[s] an entire new layer or dimension. Herron listened to them for several months, using them to help during a difficult time. Then, his sight started to return. Herron said it happened gradually so he didnt really notice, but one visit to a doctors office showed how far hed come and the odds hed beaten.

My doctor looked at my eyes and he personally was kind of floored... he told me, Your vision is back at about 80-percent, and youre going to be fine, Herron said. I was so happy I cried.

Since then, Herrons sight has improved to about 90-percent of what it was before the diagnosis. Hes able to read regular books again, as well as use a computer for longer than a minute or two. But, hes still obsessed with audiobooks. More so... hes making them now.

A couple of months ago, Herron started Tall Tale TV, in hopes he could expose scifi and fantasy writers to a diverse audience, and give readers (especially those who are visually impaired) a new way of experiencing their work. The site focuses on short stories and individual chapters, so people dont get overwhelmed when listening to them. Right now, Herron narrates all of them by himself in his spare time (he also has a full-time job), but is looking to expand with more books and voice actors in the future.

You can check out Tall Tale TV here, with a new audiobook chapter expected to go up this week. Its worth checking out. The channel is a new project, but a noble one. Herrons helping burgeoning writers grow in a genre that many of them have loved during their entire lives, using a medium that helped him during one of the hardest times of his own.

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How One Man Overcame Blindness and Started an Audiobook ... - Gizmodo