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Blogging in the 21st-Century Classroom
This year, I admitted a hard truth to myself. I wasn't having my students write enough. In an attempt to follow Kelly Gallagher's advice that students should write more than we can assess, I decided to have them blog weekly.
One Assignment, Many Objectives
After giving students some practice and solidifying my ideas by talking to a colleague and past student, I developed this assignment. I tried to ensure that the assignment would:
- Address multiple Common Core standards
- Hold students accountable while minimizing stress
- Be structured enough to provide clarity while giving freedom to experiment
- Be varied enough to keep students engaged
- Get students to write for multiple purposes
I introduced blogging to my juniors, reminding them to keep an open mind about this experiment (they could relate to that; I teach in a STEM school that focuses on life science and experimental research). We spent one period creating profiles and writing ungraded posts to get to know the interface. (Side note: students are allowed to make blogs private as long as they provide access to me. As far as I know, no one has chosen this option.) After that, I let them loose.
It. Is. Awesome.
Skill and Enthusiasm
First and foremost, student writing is improving by leaps and bounds. When I read their blogs (which, by the way, are mature, insightful, funny and engaging), I don't find myself pulling my hair out over the careless mistakes they make in formal papers. Not every post is perfect, but the majority are well written and free of grammar and usage issues that I am so familiar with seeing in their other work. If they become sloppy, all I need to do is politely comment about it on their blog, and I don't see it again.
Their improved skills transfer to formal work. Integrating quotations in literary papers has become simple now that we have so much practice with smoothly embedding hyperlinks. Additionally, student response to texts has improved; some of the posts they must write are based on stimulus texts of their choice. Once a student blogs about archetypes in Kim Possible, tackling Pride and Prejudice becomes that much easier.
Students' persuasive writing is improving, too. A mini-lesson and quick in-class prompt using rhetorical questions has resulted not only in well-argued blog posts, but also in students excitedly telling me how they used that technique for their HSPA persuasive task.
Benefits extend beyond the classroom. Introverted students tend to share more online than they do in person; blogging is an invaluable way for me to get to know them better as people and students. It's also great to see reserved students garnering attention from their peers. Furthermore, students understand the importance of hearing many voices. One recently noted that she enjoys the blogs because "[s]ome of the quieter folks during discussion can talk about their opinions too, so we finally get to hear them."
Less Agonizing Pain
It's no secret that students value an authentic audience for their writing. One student enthusiastically posted on my class Facebook wall that his blog post turned his friend into a Dave Matthews Band fan. As the new fan says, it's "the power of the pen (or the keyboard in this case)"! Additionally, I post exemplars on a student showcase, and students are visibly proud when I ask for permission to share their work with a broader audience.
I surveyed students for feedback, and the majority of responses were favorable. Here are a few:
- "[I]t forces me to write. I usually try to write a couple times a month on my own but that is pushed to the side when I have too much homework."
- "It is a good way to have us write without it being formal or full of pressure. I also like the fact that I have control over what I write about, and that definitely makes the assignment easier."
- (my personal favorite) "I don't like any assignments in general. However, I feel like the loose nature of the structure of the assignment makes it less agonizingly painful to do than most other assignments."
If making my homework "less agonizingly painful" than other assignments isn't a success, I don't know what is!
Of course, some students aren't enamored by blogging, expressing frustration with the class-related response (one of the required posts). I can understand their point, though I keep the assignment as written because I want to provide them with different levels of challenge. If the passion and free-choice posts are easy, the class-related responses should be more difficult. This reinforces the fact that writers need to have a broad repertoire when they encounter more challenging tasks.
I believe this assignment can be adapted to every grade and subject area. Encouraging students to blog about topics from other classes helps them see connections among subjects and realize that writing is a worthwhile skill in any field. As an added bonus, blogging addresses many of the Common Core literacy standards that most teachers now need to address.
Have you tried blogging in the classroom? Or will you? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
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Michelle, what a great project! I taught high school English almost 10 years ago, and at the time, the concept of blogging in the classroom was quite new. Blogging, of course, was not. I used Blogger.com to engage my Accelerated Sophomores in weekly discussions on the Princess Bride. The book ended up being their favorite text of the year, and the blogging project helped that. I directed the discussion, but it was up to my students to post a certain amount of responses in a given time period. I would pull up the blog on my computer (my personal laptop, since we didn't have the fancy overhead projectors back then!), and we'd discuss the responses. It was a great way to bring technology into the classroom.
I used blogging this last school year for reflection on major projects and really enjoyed the introspection the students had on their work. Larger still was the interaction in the comments students took to reply to each other, finding commonalities and having constructive conversations. Moving back into the actual classroom this year, I am going to plan for a digital and paper blogging activity.
Hi Angie,
I made a shared Google doc of all the links to their blogs that they could access from our class page. With their permission, I would Tweet out links to exemplary posts to garner a larger audience. Use this activity as a way to build in safe use of social media and the internet.
Hello -
With today's common core standards, I feel that as a fourth grade teacher I can definitely use some of these blogging strategies in my own classroom. Writing is a huge piece of our curriculum and the CCS. I have not actually used blogging in my classroom yet, but I look forward to learning more about it and witnessing my students grow (hopefully leaps and bounds like you) through the use of this technology tool.
Thanks for sharing Michelle.
Indeed, blogs are a great way to learn, connect, and share. From my experience blogging can help foster the development of writing and communication skills on many levels. The best thing is there are so many resources and services out there for starting a blog such as this guide http://www.stepstostartablog.com. Blogging can also be fun and provide a form of motivation for students to do more writing.
Technology is becoming a regular part of daily life, especially for young people. Blogging is a fantastic way to combine learning with the internet.
What a wonderful way to encourage writing through blogging, providing freedom in what students write. I found it interesting that during the feedback within the article, a student stated that he liked being in control of what he wrote [blogged], making the assignment easier for him. Students are actually in control over anything they write, but obviously perceive there's less control when teachers choose topics for them. Very interesting article!
Wow. This sounds like a great exercise that for students! I love how it encourages and allows them to practice writing skills without being stressful or limiting. It allows students to engage in talking about what they have enjoyed learning about. I think it's interesting that giving students the option to blog has also helped improve the grammar and technical errors in their writing.
Hi Angie, I am thinking about using student blogs is high school science, where I would have a lot of students as well. How did you go using a google form to keep track of your students' blogs? Do you use a spreadsheet? How do you give feedback?
Thank you Michelle for sharing your project. I commented on my own blog at https://wordpress.com/post/economicsandpolitics2017.wordpress.com/18 . Thank you again, Andre
Andre, it looks like your link is broken. Here's a working version: https://economicsandpolitics2017.wordpress.com/2017/06/05/writing-in-the....


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Ruth M. Redden
BERLIN — Ruth Martin Redden, 90, died Friday, Aug. 24, 2012, at Coastal Hospice at the Lake in Salisbury. Born in Jacksonville, Fla., she was the daughter of the late John C. Martin and Marie Neil Martin. She was preceded in death by her husband, Walter Herbert Redden in 1988, and by her son, Bruce Edward Redden in 2006. She is survived by her sons, Raymond Scott Redden and his wife, Joan, of Hornstown, Va., Walter Dodd Redden and his fiancée, Diana Cooper, of Bishopville, and a daughter-in-law, Phyllis Redden of Frankford, Del. Also surviving is a brother, John Martin of Jacksonville, Fla, seven grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by two sisters and a brother.
Mrs. Redden had worked for many years at the Capital Theater in Ocean City, the Shore Drive-in Theater, and Maridel Realty Motel. She was a member, former deacon, former church officer, WOW, and in charge of the church rummage store for many years at the First Presbyterian Church of Ocean City.
A funeral service was held Wednesday, Aug. 29, at Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. The Rev. Alex Ayers officiated. Interment was in Evergreen Cemetery in Berlin. A donation in her memory may be made to the First Presbyterian Church, 1301 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, Md. 21842.
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subset: commoncrawl


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>Look What I Can Do!>Running with the sub-3s -- ut oh
Interval Junkie --Nobby
The local community coach runs a marathon training program (MTP). It's is open to all and caters to everyone from the C25K graduates to BQers. For first timers the generic (and sagely) goal is "Just complete" after that it's usually PR with sub 4hrs. Coach's stated main goal is for people not to get hurt -- and as he's serving a very large and varied community, this is wise. However, after reading a friend's training plan last year I decided not to participate because I thought Coach was too conservative. Boy was I wrong . . .
I've been running speed workouts on Wednesdays with Coach and a growing community of local runners. It has done wonders, as I mentioned elsewhere. It's also the highpoint of my week. Nothing like grinding out a few intervals with people sweating just as hard as you are.
Because of this good experience with the Wednesday workout, I decided to join the MTP. If anyway, it would give me new places to run around town. New places sprinkled with gatorade and water-jugs on Saturday morning. Company for a long run might also be nice every once in a while -- though I usually prefer to run alone. Last weekend we beat-feet around a rural road with few cars and lots of shade. I hit my stride with the 8:00 pace group and after 15 miles was well spent and surrounded by that easy-haze you get after a good run.
Coach is backlogged on writing up custom marathon plans, so I've been using Pfitz's 18/70 for the first two weeks. But Thursday morning I get a phone call from him to show up at the shop because, "[I'm] a bit of a special case." I happened to have the day off, and needs new kicks anyway, so I head over to the shop.
Once there the Coach confides in me that there's an inner circle to the MTP, of people with an eye on faster goals. He'd like me to join that group. I'm honored to get the call-up. Very happy my workouts on Wednesday lead to me being identified as someone worthy of this honor. But then he starts describing the group: "They're all sub-3 or on the verge of sub-3 marathoners." Ut oh.
So, this Saturday I'm to run 16mi with these guys at "Aerobic Heart Rate". I ask what that means for the group:
Coach: "About 7:20pace."
Me: "Coach, that's 5 seconds off my marathon goal pace."
Coach: "You're aiming for a 3:10, right? Hmm, 10min is a pretty big difference." <beat> "Yeah, but I think you're faster than that."
Woah. I had to walk over and pick my socks up from across the room -- completely blown off. Of course, now I'm pretty intimidated. Tomorrow, I'm going to hang with the group as long as I can -- I should say "as long as is reasonable" but I know myself better than that.
And I thought this guy was too conservative for me?
It's going to be an awesome Fall.
MTA: change of title
2016 Goals: Lose the 10lbs I gained for not having goals
Consistently Slow
Congrats on being tapped.Remember to train for the condition/shape/time you are in now.Not for the condition /shape/time
you are aiming to hit.
Run until the trail runs out.
The pain that hurts the worse is the imagined pain. One of the most difficult arts of racing is learning to ignore the imagined pain and just live with the present pain (which is always bearable.) - Jeff
That looks way off script for a Pfitz plan for you and, to me, those 10 minutes still feels like a big difference. Good luck with your race Saturday.
I have never been tapped.
Good luck. Dunno how you arrived at 3:10 nor how "Coach" (sorry, but it makes me think of Cheers and smile) came to where he is about what workouts you can handle... but yes, what an interesting experience to get to have. Have fun with it.
That looks way off script for a Pfitz plan for you and, to me, those 10 minutes still feels like a big difference. Good luck with your race Saturday.
Similar comment:
1. It's training and exploring-your-limits time, so I say have at it and see what you learn. That said,
2. I ran into some friends on Saturday who were doing 8 at 6:50-7:10ish. I let 'em go because I wanted to get my 15. Point is: I'd figure out early-on in the workout if you think it's gonna work. But, if you blow up, so what (see point 1)?
"If you have the fire, run..." -John Climacus
Congratz for getting tapped, and for good reasons! (The only times I've gotten tapped was some groups needing a warm body)
Congrats! There's nothing like being part of the "in" running group. I bet you get even faster. Nice work!
HTFU? Why not!
USATF Coach
Do I know you ?
(Mikey the Pig)
I decided to join the MTP.
I decided to join the MTP.
7/20/17 #247 Comeback #19 ... 10/8 - Glacial Trail 50M
Yeah, there's a big difference between (a) being able to stick with the group for 16mi and (b) being able to stick with the group for 16mi at the intended effort level.
Cool that the guy sees more in you. Hopefully, he has good vision.
"I want you to pray as if everything depends on it, but I want you to prepare yourself as if everything depends on you."
-- Dick LeBeau
Lets make one thing perfectly clear: there is no "in" crowd in running. We are all dorks.
That said, I think the coach is right.
Runners run.
Congratz for getting tapped, and for good reasons! (The only times I've gotten tapped was some groups needing a warm body)
In an infinite universe, the one thing sentient life cannot afford to have is a sense of proportion
Great to be recognized like that by someone you respect! Caveat - my experience is that it's much easier to be able to run too fast when you're trying to stay with the boys. If you can do it you'll get faster, if you can't but still do it (you're too close to race effort, they're not) you run a significantly higher risk of injury.
Just got back and I'm pooped. My goal was to stick with them for half the run and then go back to some 8s to finish out the 16. Yesterday I was very tired because of things going on and crashed into bed at 8pm. Woke at 4:45am, feeling decent but still a bit tired.
The run was hilly, but that had no apparent effect on the group as they chatted through a 7:10-7:30 pace up the gravel road. It was out of my comfort zone, for sure. Comfortably hard? I'm not really sure. I was focused. And able to interject short responses to questions. But I was working for it.
I stuck with the pack up a hill around mi 6 that almost did me in -- even some of the chatter faded toward the top. But I rallied and was able to solidly stick with the group through mile 8. There was a menacing hill that began the 9th mile. While I was sticking with the group I was pretty sure that to continue I'd need to start digging into 'race' mode. But I'd hit my 8mi mark, and was happy to wave the group adios. Good bunch of guys -- only one under 6ft, I think. 70s runner skinny with bulging calves. They took off up the hill and eventually decided to take a detour to another very hilly part of the road; came back massaging their calves and winded. It would have broke me.
I had a little trouble hitting a pace after we parted. I knew this might be a problem. The hill was really taxing and I ended up walking part of it. Then I struggled to reboot my legs into 8:10 pace. Kept hitting 8:30s, and that's where my pace was. I was down to high-easy effort. There didn't seem to be a "comfortably hard" gear anymore -- it was high-easy or uncomfortably hard. I decided not to push, hoping to find some pacers.
Around mile 11 I found my pace-group from last-week. They were still clicking away the 8:10s pretty comfortably. I joined them and found my stride again. Then, due to an event beyond my control, but one I thankfully fell into the trap of, I had to end my run at 14mi.
So, not really what Pfitz would have recommended. And while I would have liked to report that I stuck with them longer, or that the pace was easier, I'm just happy to have the wisdom not to muscle it out. Looking forward to the day I can hang with them the whole way -- would be a fun group of guys to run with.
I think I'll spend the day rolling out my calves.
Looks like you checked out when those guys started pushing it; a pretty good day's work for you.
Yeah, they rolled at 7:10 up a long hill. One guy looked down at his watch and said, "looks like we're a bit fast," without any real concern in his voice. Meanwhile my head was screaming, "Jesus Christmas, 7:20 was 'a bit fast' -- you guys trying to kill me!"
Ah, well, I think I have my "Once A Runner" season ahead of me. Feels like being a freshman trying out for the team.
Miles of trials. Trial of miles.


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Braving the ElementsThese brain teasers rely on your ability to recognize groups of common attributes. For each of these puzzles you'll need to figure out why the words or letters are grouped as they are. Sometimes you will be asked to pick the odd-one-out or to place a new word into the correct group.
Which element in Group B can be added to Group A? Why?
Group A: Iridium, Vanadium, Xenon, Lanthanum, Carbon, Dysprosium
Group B: Radon, Barium, Uranium, Platinum, Manganese, Phosphorus
AnswerThe first letter of each element in Group A is a Roman numeral. Thus, Manganese can be added to Group A.
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EM Mid-Day Roundup: India Is Close To Junk, But Its Corporates May Pleasantly Surprise
India's central bank rolled back emergency measures implemented in July to stabilize the rupee, and left the benchmark rate unchanged. The Indian rupee has climbed about 11% since its August low.
Credit rating agencies have threatened to downgrade India to junk status, so Indian politicians are now putting out PR pieces such as this one on Bloomberg: its Economic Affairs Secretary is flying business class instead of first class to control spending.
India's Finance Minister said the government needed to cut down subsidies on fuel and food. This strikes me as odd, considering India just passed a landmark food subsidy bill a month ago to please voters ahead of the elections next year.
But we are here to talk about equities. Infosys will kick off India's earnings season this Friday. Corporate earnings may surprise on the upside, because 40% of SENSEX earnings is geared towards non-India geographies and global economic recovery. Slumping domestic demand does not matter as much.
Here is Deutsche Bank:
Revenues to rebound sharply, driven by global recovery and INR depreciation. Contrary to the pervasive corporate despondency, India Inc may be on course to deliver a strong September quarter. We expect Sensex companies to post a strong rebound in revenue growth at 12.4% yoy – the highest in the past five quarters. We expect revenue growth recovery in Sensex to be led by: IT Services (+25% yoy), Pharma (+24%), and Autos (+17%). Global recovery and INR depreciation are set to be the strong over-riding catalysts driving a rebound in revenues. We expect Sensex EBITDA growth to come in at 13.8% yoy – the highest in the past eight quarters – leading to an EBITDA margin expansion of 30bps. We expect Sensex PAT to grow at 9.6% – the highest in the past five quarters – belying the pessimism seen in the aftermath of the deterioration in external balances and the sharp drop in the INR. While it may be too premature to conclude that this turnaround will persist, we believe that a strong global recovery and lower INR will percolate into earnings as 40% of Sensex earnings is geared to non-India geographies.
Consumer sector is not as safe as perceived. As a sequel to our "Busting Myths – A walk on the wild side" report (26 February 2013 on ten not-so-well-appreciated myths about India Consumer), we present another myth – that the consumer sector operates without government intervention. We argue that many consumer companies' business models are well-linked to government policy. We pick Nestle India (Sell, INR5081.45) as the most vulnerable (c.40% of profits from infant foods, an area that is linked to a continuing government policy of advertisement bans).
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS.NS) gained 2.8% and rose to a record-high today. Metal and mining companies gained. Tata Steel (IN:500470) advanced 4.1%. Hindalco Industries gained 3.2%.
This month, Infosys (INFY) gained 2.6%, Wipro (WIT) gained 2.5%. Dr. Reddy's (RDY) gained 3%, and Tata Motors (TTM) advanced 8.2%.
If the rupee were held steady and the corporate earnings did surprise on the upside, we may be in for a treat. The WisdomTree Trust India Earnings Fund (EPI) gained 5.6% this month. The iShares MSCI India Index Fund (INDA) gained 5.7%.


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Allstate Sugar Bowl Announces Manning Award Watch List
Monday, August 17, 2009
The Manning Award, sponsored by the Allstate Sugar Bowl, announced its 2009 preseason Watch List on Monday. The list includes 38 of the top quarterbacks in the nation heading into the 2009 season. The winner will be announced after the bowls in January and will be honored at a February banquet in New Orleans.Manning Award Watch List Photo Gallery The Manning Award was created by the Allstate Sugar Bowl in honor of the college football accomplishments of Archie, Peyton and Eli Manning. It is the only quarterback award that takes into consideration the candidates' bowl performances.Florida's Tim Tebow will attempt to become the first repeat winner of the honor after collecting it last season. He is joined by Oklahoma's Sam Bradford to give the award two Heisman Trophy winners on the Watch List. Each of the 11 FBS conferences is represented on the Watch List with at least two candidates while the Big 12 leads the way with seven Watch List selections. In addition, Appalachian State's Armanti Edwards becomes the first player from an FCS school to be recognized on the preseason Manning list."We have another great class of quarterbacks this season," said Archie Manning. "We have 38 quarterbacks on our Watch List, but there are any number of other guys who could step into the picture as the season gets going. It's going to be a lot of fun to watch another tremendous college football season.""We have had the opportunity to recognize five outstanding quarterbacks with the Manning Award," said Paul Hoolahan, Allstate Sugar Bowl CEO. "It is truly a great honor for the Allstate Sugar Bowl to sponsor this award and we wish the best of luck to every quarterback and team in the country for another great year of college football."While the preseason Watch List includes just 38 quarterbacks, every quarterback in the nation remains eligible for the honor. Additional quarterbacks may be added to the Watch List after the start of the season. Ten finalists will be determined by a selected panel of national media covering college football, as well as each of the Mannings. That list will be released on Monday, Nov. 30. The winner will be announced on Thursday, Jan. 14.The first four winners of the Manning Award reads like a Who's Who list at the quarterback position. USC's Matt Leinart was the inaugural winner of the award in 2005, followed by Texas' Vince Young in 2006. Both went on to be top 10 NFL draft picks. In 2007, LSU's JaMarcus Russell earned the award and was the NFL's No. 1 draft pick. Boston College's Matt Ryan claimed the award in 2008 and was drafted No. 3, quickly becoming the starting quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons.2009 Manning Award Watch ListAusten Arnaud (Jr., Iowa State)Sam Bradford (Jr., Oklahoma)Levi Brown (Sr., Troy)Darryll Clark (Sr., Penn State)Jimmy Clausen (Jr., Notre Dame)Andy Dalton (Sr., TCU)Austin Davis (So., Southern Miss)Armanti Edwards (Sr., Appalachian State)Robert Griffin III (So., Baylor)Matt Grothe (Sr., USF)Max Hall (Sr., BYU)Tim Hiller (Sr., Western Michigan)Jerrod Johnson (Jr., Texas A&M)Colin Kaepernick (Jr., Nevada)Case Keenum (Jr., Houston)Dan LeFevour (Sr., Central Michigan)Corey Leonard (Sr., Arkansas State)Thaddeus Lewis (Sr., Duke)Ryan Lindley (So., San Diego State)Jake Locker (Jr., Washington)Jeremiah Masoli (Jr., Oregon)Colt McCoy (Sr., Texas)Kellen Moore (So., Boise State)Tony Pike (Sr., Cincinnati)Terrelle Pryor (So., Ohio State)Todd Reesing (Sr., Kansas)Zac Robinson (Sr., Oklahoma State)Tyler Sheehan (Sr., Bowling Green)Riley Skinner (Sr., Wake Forest)Rusty Smith (Sr., Florida Atlantic)Jevan Snead (Jr., Ole Miss)Ricky Stanzi (Jr., Iowa)Tim Tebow (Sr., Florida)Trevor Vittatoe (Jr., UTEP)Adam Weber (Jr., Minnesota)Juice Williams (Sr., Illinois)Russell Wilson (So., N.C. State)T.J. Yates (Jr., North Carolina)
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The Unfortunate Legacy of Aubrey McClendon
Aubrey McClendon is out -- or at least he's on his way out -- as CEO of Chesapeake Energy (CHK).
But his real legacy is the destruction of the natural-gas market, where he was the ringleader in the shale-gas land-grab and the cratering of well prices -- and the market is not likely to recover any time soon. While McClendon will go into a very wealthy retirement, he leaves behind a decimated market and a long road to making natural gas a true transition fuel to energy independence and a renewable future....457 more words left in this article. To read them, just click below and try Real Money FREE for 14 days.
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Outrage after paper names gun owners
WASHINGTON: A New York newspaper has sparked an acrimonious debate over gun rights and privacy by publishing the names and addresses of thousands of handgun owners in an interactive map.
The Journal News obtained the records of residents with handgun permits under freedom-of information laws and published them as part of the paper's coverage of the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre, prompting a widespread backlash.
There have been calls for boycotts of the paper and staff have been threatened, according to a Journal News story about the response. In retaliation, bloggers have already published what they believe to be the home addresses of the paper's publisher, editor and the reporter who wrote the story.
None of the comments on an accompanying Facebook page supported the paper's decision to publish the database, which was of permit-holders, not necessarily gun owners. One of the comments included the names and address of people thought to be on the paper's staff.
"I grew up in Westechester [sic] I looked over the list and I am offended. Why are there so few gun owners?" wrote one reader.
"Another liberal newspaper touting rights while violating them. Anything to exploit a tragedy to support the liberal agenda. Hopefully this time next week you'll be out of business," wrote another.
The map includes details of thousands of gun permits registered in Rockland and Westchester counties, which lie between New York City and Newtown, Connecticut, where 27 people were murdered in a primary school massacre by Adam Lanza this month.
The president and publisher of The Journal News Media Group, Janet Hasson, was quoted in the story as saying: "New York residents have the right to own guns with a permit and they also have a right to access public information."
The editor and vice-president of news, CynDee Royle, said the paper knew publication of the database would be controversial, ''but we felt sharing as much information as we could about gun ownership in our area was important in the aftermath of the Newtown shootings".
"People are concerned about who owns guns and how many of them there are in their neighbourhoods," she said. "Our freedom-of-information request also sought specifics on how many and what types of weapons people owned. That portion of the request was denied."
Publishing the database with a story headlined ''The gun owner next door: what you don't know about guns in your neighbourhood'', the paper noted that the reporter owned a registered .357 magnum.
Some angry locals pointed out that the database would be of most use to criminals looking to steal guns.
A Republican state senator, Greg Ball, called the editors ''asinine'' and called on the paper to take down its map.
''The Journal News has placed the lives of these folks at risk by creating a virtual shopping list for criminals and nut jobs,'' Senator Ball said.
A new poll shows most Americans support stricter gun laws in the aftermath of the Newtown massacre, but most oppose banning assault weapons, a move backed by the President, Barack Obama. Fifty-eight per cent of Americans in a USA Today/Gallup poll said they favoured stricter gun laws, up from 43 per cent in October 2011.
But the ban on assault weapons, a favourite target of gun-control advocates, has gained no significant support, the poll found, with 44 per cent supporting such a move and 51 per cent opposing it. In October 2011, 43 per cent supported an assault weapons ban and 53 per cent were against it.
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An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of Parkinson disease.
What Is Parkinson Disease?
Parkinson disease is a neurological disorder that affects movement, muscle control, and balance. Parkinson disease most commonly affects people 55 to 75 years old, but it can also develop in younger people. The disease is progressive, with symptoms becoming more severe over time.
Symptoms of Parkinson Disease
Parkinson disease may be difficult to diagnose in its early stages. The disease is generally diagnosed on the basis of symptoms, which may include:
There is no cure for Parkinson disease. Treatments focus on controlling symptoms and improving quality of life.
Research News
In 2014, the FDA approved droxidopa (Northera) to treat symptoms of orthostatic hypotension associated with Parkinson disease. Orthostatic hypotension is a sudden drop in blood pressure that occurs upon standing.
Parkinson disease (PD) is a slowly progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, muscle control, and balance. Parkinson disease is part of a group of conditions called motor system disorders, which are associated with the loss of dopamine-producing brain cells. The term "parkinsonism" refers to these dopamine-associated motor disorders, which include Parkinson disease.
Parkinson disease occurs from the following process in the brain:
Dopamine deficiency results in the hallmark features of PD. Dopamine is one of three major neurotransmitters known as catecholamines, which help the body respond to stress and prepare it for the fight-or-flight response.
Loss of dopamine impairs the nerves and muscles controlling movement and coordination, resulting in the major symptoms of Parkinson disease. Dopamine also appears to be important for efficient information processing. Dopamine deficiencies may be responsible for the problems in memory and concentration that affect many people with Parkinson.
Doctors don't know what causes Parkinson disease. A combination of genetic and environmental factors likely plays a role.
Genetic Factors
Specific genetic factors appear to play a strong role in early-onset Parkinson disease, an uncommon form of the disease. Multiple genetic factors may also be involved in some cases of late-onset Parkinson disease.
Environmental Factors
Environmental factors are probably not a sole cause of Parkinson disease, but they may trigger the condition in people who are genetically susceptible.
Some evidence implicates pesticides and herbicides as possible factors in some cases of Parkinson disease. A higher incidence of parkinsonism has long been observed in people who live in rural areas, particularly those who drink private well water or are agricultural workers.
The average age of onset of Parkinson disease is 55. About 10% of Parkinson cases are in people younger than age 40. Older adults are at higher risk for both parkinsonism and Parkinson disease.
Parkinson disease is more common in men than in women.
People with siblings or parents who developed Parkinson at a younger age face an increased risk for the condition. However, relatives of patients who developed Parkinson at an older age appear to have an average risk.
African Americans and Asian Americans appear to have a lower risk than Caucasians.
Both smoking and coffee drinking are associated with a lower risk for PD.
Smoking and Nicotine. Cigarette smokers appear to have a lower risk for Parkinson disease, indicating possible protection by nicotine. This finding is, of course, no excuse to smoke. The few studies on nicotine replacement as a treatment for Parkinson have not provided any strong evidence that nicotine therapy provides benefits.
Coffee Consumption. Some studies suggest that the risk for PD in coffee drinkers is lower than for non-coffee drinkers. In a 30-year study of Japanese-American men, coffee consumption was associated with a lower risk for Parkinson disease, and the more coffee they drank, the lower their risk became.
Parkinson disease (PD) is not fatal, but it can reduce longevity. The disease progresses more quickly in older people, and it may lead to severe incapacity within 10 to 20 years. Older people with PD also tend to have muscle freezing and greater declines in mental function and daily functioning than younger people. If PD starts without signs of tremor, it is likely to be more severe than if tremor is present.
Parkinson disease can seriously impair the quality of life in any age group. In addition to motor symptoms (motion difficulties, tremors), Parkinson can cause various non-motor problems that have significant physical and emotional impacts on patients and their families.
Swallowing problems (dysphagia) are sometimes associated with shorter survival time. Loss of muscle control in the throat not only impairs chewing and swallowing, which can lead to malnourishment, but also poses a risk for aspiration pneumonia. Swallowing problems can also interfere with adequate consumption of fiber and fluid, which can worsen constipation.
Depression is very common in people with Parkinson. The disease process itself causes changes in brain chemicals that affect mood and well-being. Anxiety is also very common and may present along with depression.
Some drug treatments, particularly dopamine agonists, can cause poor impulse control and compulsive behaviors, such as gambling, shopping, and increased sexuality. People who have pre-existing tendencies for novelty-seeking behavior, or a family or personal history of alcohol abuse, may be more likely to develop these problems. Deep brain stimulus (DBS) surgery may also increase the risk for compulsive gambling in people who have a history of gambling.
Impaired Thinking (Cognitive Impairment). Defects in thinking, language, and problem solving skills may occur early on or later in the course of the disease. These problems can arise from the disease process or from side effects of medications used to treat Parkinson. People with PD are slower in detecting associations, although (unlike in Alzheimer disease) once they discover them they are able to apply this knowledge to other concepts.
Dementia. Dementia occurs in about two-thirds of people with Parkinson, especially those who developed PD after age 60. Dementia is the significant loss of cognitive functions such as memory, judgment, attention, and abstract thinking. It is most likely to occur in older people who have had major depression. PD marked by muscle rigidity (akinesia) rather than tremor, and early hallucinations also increase the risk for dementia. (Visual hallucinations can also occur as a side effect of dopamine medication.) Unlike Alzheimer disease, language is not usually affected in Parkinson-related dementia.
Excessive daytime sleepiness, insomnia, and other sleep disorders are common in PD, both from the disease itself and the drugs that treat it. Bladder problems can also contribute to sleep disturbances. Many people with Parkinson disease also suffer from nighttime leg cramps and restless legs syndrome. Some of the medications used for PD may cause vivid dreams, as well as waking hallucinations.
Although Parkinson disease and its treatments can cause compulsive sexual behavior, the disease can also cause a loss of sexual desire in both men and women. For men, erectile dysfunction can be a complication of Parkinson.
Constipation is a common complication of Parkinson disease. It is often caused by muscle weakness that can slow down the action of the digestive system. Weakness in pelvic floor muscles can also make it difficult to defecate. In addition, swallowing problems associated with muscle weakness may make it difficult to eat enough fiber-rich foods and drink enough fluids, which can also cause constipation. Constipation may also occur as a side effect of some Parkinson medications.
People with Parkinson disease may experience urinary incontinence, including increased urge and frequency, although this is less common than constipation. PD can also cause urinary retention (incomplete emptying of the bladder).
Orthostatic hypotension is a rapid drop in blood pressure (hypotension is the medical term for low blood pressure) triggered by a sudden change in body position. It usually occurs when standing up after sitting or lying down.
Parkinson disease, and the medications used to treat it, can also cause orthostatic hypotension. Lifestyle factors that can contribute to orthostatic hypotension include dehydration, alcohol, hot drinks and foods, and overexertion.
Symptoms of orthostatic hypotension include dizziness, light-headedness, weakness, blurred vision, loss of balance, and fainting. Orthostatic hypotension can increase the risk for falls and injuries, and limit patients' ability to perform daily tasks that require standing or walking.
Decreased Sense of Smell. Many people with PD experience an impaired sense of smell.
Vision Problems. Vision may be affected, including impaired color perception and contrast sensitivity.
Pain. Painful symptoms associated with Parkinson disease include back pain, neck pain, tingling, and aching. Pain in Parkinson often results from dystonia (involuntary muscle contractions and spasms that can cause twisting and jerking), as well as from the gastrointestinal system.
People with PD often develop skin problems, including excessively oily, dry, or flaking skin. Of greatest concern, Parkinson disease appears to be associated with a higher risk for developing melanoma (an aggressive skin cancer). People with Parkinson disease should have regular screenings with a dermatologist to check for skin changes that may indicate melanoma.
Parkinson disease (PD) symptoms often start with tremor, which may occur in the following ways:
About 25% of patients with PD do not develop tremor.
Many PD symptoms involve motor impairment caused by problems in the brain nerves that regulate movement:
Parkinson disease also causes non-motor symptoms, including fatigue, sleep problems, gastrointestinal and urinary disorders, sexual dysfunction, decreased sense of smell, and depression and anxiety. [See Complications section of this report.]
Sialorrhea (drooling) is a common and bothersome symptom for those with Parkinson disease. It can cause chapped lips and skin around the mouth, dehydration, an unpleasant odor, and social embarrassment.
Parkinson disease (PD) can be difficult to diagnose in its early stages. Doctors base their diagnosis on the person's medical history and symptoms evaluated during a neurological exam.
Brain scans such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or positron-emission tomography (PET) may be used to rule out other neurological disorders. Genetic tests may be used to identify inherited forms of PD.
A medical and personal history should include any relevant symptoms, as well as any medications taken, and information on other conditions the person may have.
In a neurological exam, the doctor will ask you to sit, stand, walk, and extend your arms. The doctor will observe your balance and coordination. PD may be suspected in people who have at least two of the following four symptoms, especially if they are more obvious on one side of the body:
A levodopa challenge test may confirm a diagnosis of Parkinson disease. If your symptoms improve when you take the drug levodopa, you likely have Parkinson, and not another type of neurological disease.
The American Academy of Neurology (AAN) recommends the Beck Depression Inventory or the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale to screen for depression in patients with Parkinson disease. The AAN recommends the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Cambridge Cognitive Examination (CAMCOG) tests to screen for dementia. During these tests, the patient answers a series of questions.
Parkinsonism Plus Syndromes. Parkinson disease is the most common type of parkinsonism. Parkinsonism refers to a group of movement disorders that share similar symptoms with Parkinson disease, but also have unique symptoms of their own. About 15% of parkinsonism cases are due to conditions called Parkinson plus syndromes (PPS) or atypical parkinsonism. These syndromes include:
People with PPS often have earlier and more severe dementia than those with Parkinson disease. In addition, they do not usually respond to medications that are used to treat Parkinson disease.
Other Neurologic Conditions. Many medical conditions may cause some symptoms of Parkinson disease and parkinsonism. Hardening of the arteries (arteriosclerosis) in the brain can cause multiple small strokes, which can produce loss of motor control. Alzheimer disease can share similar symptoms with Parkinson and the conditions can exist together.
Medications. Several drugs, including antipsychotic and antiseizure medications, can cause Parkinson-type symptoms.
There is no cure for Parkinson disease (PD), but drugs, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and surgical interventions can help control symptoms and improve quality of life.
Treatment for this complicated condition must be individualized. People with PD must work closely with their health care team throughout the course of the disease to tailor a treatment program to their particular and changing needs. No treatment method, including drug therapy, has been proven to change the course of the disease or slow disease progression. But many treatments can help ease symptoms and restore normal functioning for long periods of time.
The decision to start drug therapy usually arises when motor symptoms (movement problems, muscle rigidity, tremors) begin to interfere with daily functioning. The main types of drugs for treating Parkinson disease are:
All of these drugs have side effects. Your health care provider will discuss with you the risks and benefits of various drugs, and will take into consideration such factors as your overall health, age, symptoms, stage of Parkinson disease, and other medical conditions you may have.
In general, levodopa/carbidopa is the standard drug for treating PD throughout its disease course, but other drugs may be used for its earlier stages. When levodopa is used for many years, it can "wear off" and symptom improvement ("on" time) may decrease while symptom worsening ("off" time) increases. Motor symptoms may also fluctuate unpredictably. Your health care provider may adjust the dosage or add another drug to your regimen to help boost levodopa's effectiveness.
For people with advanced Parkinson disease whose symptoms can no longer be controlled by medication, surgical treatment with deep brain stimulation may be an option. (Some recent research suggests this treatment may also be helpful for patients in earlier stages of the disease). Home modifications (wheelchair ramps, grab bars, and handrails) can help improve functional abilities and independent living. Treatment goals for all stages of Parkinson disease should focus on providing safety, comfort, and quality of life.
Conditions associated with non-motor impairment symptoms of Parkinson disease may need a variety of treatments.
Depression. Medications for PD-associated depression include older drugs such as the tricyclic antidepressant amitriptyline, as well as newer antidepressants, including selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) such as fluoxetine (Prozac, generic), sertraline (Zoloft, generic), paroxetine (Paxil, generic), and venlafaxine (Effexor, generic). The dopamine agonist pramipexole (Mirapex, generic) may also be helpful for Parkinson depression. Health care providers need to monitor antidepressants to make sure they do not worsen motor symptoms.
Psychotic Side Effects. Psychosis in Parkinson disease is often a side effect of medication. Doctors first try to adjust the dose of PD medications to see if psychotic side effects decrease without motor symptoms increasing. In some cases, doctors may prescribe an antipsychotic drug, usually quetiapine (Seroquel, generic). The antipsychotic clozapine (Clozaril, generic) is also effective, but it can have a serious side effect of lowering white blood cell count. Certain types of antipsychotic medications, such as olanzapine (Zyprexa, generic) and risperidone (Risperdal, generic), should not be used in people with PD because they can worsen Parkinson symptoms.
Dementia. The cholinesterase inhibitor drugs donepezil (Aricept, generic) and rivastigmine (Exelon, generic) are used to treat Alzheimer disease and are sometimes used for Parkinson. (Rivastigmine is FDA-approved for treatment of Parkinson dementia.) These drugs typically have only a very modest benefit on cognitive function.
Daytime Sleepiness and Fatigue. Modafinil (Provigil, generic), a drug used to treat narcolepsy, may be helpful for PD-associated sleepiness. Methylphenidate (Ritalin, generic) may be considered for treating fatigue.
Erectile Dysfunction. PDE5 inhibitor drugs such as sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra), and avanafil (Stendra) can be helpful for men with Parkinson disease who suffer from erectile dysfunction. However, these drugs may worsen orthostatic hypotension.
Orthostatic Hypotension. Orthostatic hypotension is a sudden drop in blood pressure that occurs when rising from a sitting or lying down position. It causes dizziness and light-headedness. Lifestyle treatments include avoiding dehydration, carbohydrate-heavy meals, overexposure to heat, and vigorous exercise. Droxidopa (Northdera) is a new drug approved to treat orthostatic hypotension associated with Parkinson disease and other nervous system disorders. Droxidopa and similar medications have a risk of increasing blood pressure when lying down. People who take this drug must be sure to sleep with their head and upper body elevated.
Constipation. Dietary changes should be the first step for addressing constipation. It is important to increase overall fiber and fluid consumption, but this can be difficult for people who have swallowing problems. Taking a stool softener such as docusate (Colace, generic) on a daily basis may help with bowel movements.
For people who need laxatives, bulk-forming fiber laxatives are considered the safest and are not habit-forming. They include psyllium (Metamucil, other brands, generic) and wheat dextrin (Benefiber, generic). Stimulant laxatives should be avoided as they can worsen bowel problems if used on a long-term basis. Check with your health care provider for advice about using other types of laxatives, suppositories, and enemas. Regular exercise is also helpful for constipation.
Drooling. Glycopyrrolate, scopolamine, and injections of botulinum toxin may be used to relieve drooling symptoms.
Levodopa, also called L-dopa, which is converted to dopamine in the brain, remains the gold standard for treating Parkinson disease (PD) symptoms. The standard preparations (Sinemet, Parcopa) combine levodopa with carbidopa, which improves the action of levodopa and reduces some of its side effects, particularly nausea. Sinemet is swallowed as a pill. Parcopa is a tablet that dissolves under the tongue.
Dosages vary, although the preparation is usually taken in 3 or 4 divided doses per day. This medication works best on an empty stomach, but some people find this causes nausea and prefer to take it with a light meal or snack. If you are levodopa/carbidopa along with food, it is important to avoid high-protein foods as they can interfere with drug absorption.
Levodopa/carbidopa helps improve mobility for many people with PD. It works best for treating difficulties with movement (akinesia) and muscle stiffness. It may be less effective for treating tremor, balance, coordination, and posture.
Levodopa/carbidopa does not prevent Parkinson disease progression. Over time, the dose of the drug has to be increased to be effective.
Side Effects. Many side effects of levodopa/carbidopa can be minimized by adjusting dosage. The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, low blood pressure, dizziness, and confusion.
Serious side effects include:
"Wearing-Off" Effect and "On-Off" Time. After several years of taking levodopa, many people with PD find that the drug's helpful effects last for shorter periods of time and that symptoms return before the next dose is due to be taken. When the medication wears off in between doses, symptoms may suddenly worsen ("off-time"). At other times of the day, symptoms may be well-controlled ("on-time"). Wearing off can develop gradually during the day, or it can occur intermittently and unpredictably.
An increase in dyskinesia (involuntary movements) and other motor symptoms (muscle stiffness, rigidity, slowness, cramping) are most commonly associated with the wearing-off effect. Some people may also experience non-motor symptoms, such as difficulty concentrating, anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, sweating, and trouble breathing. If symptoms improve when the next dose of levodopa/carbidopa is taken, this is a clear sign of the wearing-off effect.
There are different approaches for managing wearing off and off-time. Your doctor may recommend:
Making some adjustments to your food schedule may also help with wearing off. Try to take levodopa/carbidopa on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before eating. High-protein foods can especially interfere with levodopa absorption.
Levodopa is converted into dopamine in the brain. In contrast, dopamine agonists mimic the action of dopamine by stimulating dopamine receptors in the brain. A dopamine agonist drug may be used as an initial medication in the early stages of PD to delay the need for levodopa, or it may be used along with levodopa/carbidopa in later stages of the disease.
When used alone, these drugs are less likely to cause dyskinesia than levodopa, but they may be less effective than levodopa for controlling motor symptoms. There is debate about the value of dopamine agonists as first-line therapy for Parkinson disease. Some research suggests that early treatment with dopamine agonists may not provide any long-term advantages compared with starting treatment with levodopa/carbidopa.
Brands. Pramipexole (Mirapex, generic) and ropinirole (Requip, generic) are the most commonly prescribed oral dopamine agonists. Rotigotine (Neupro) is a skin patch that is applied once a day. Apomorphine (Apokyn) is a self-injectable dopamine agonist that is used as a rescue medication for quickly treating off-time motor symptoms in advanced PD.
Side Effects. Common side effects of dopamine agonists include nausea, confusion, and leg swelling. More serious concerns include:
MAO-B inhibitor drugs block monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B), an enzyme that inactivates dopamine. Selegiline (Eldepryl, Zelapar) and rasagiline (Azilect) are MAO-B inhibitors used for treating Parkinson disease.
These drugs may be used alone in the early stages of PD to treat mild symptoms (such as tremor) and delay the need for levodopa. They may also be used in combination with levodopa in later stages to enhance the effects of levodopa and help manage motor fluctuations. Rasagiline may also be used in combination with dopamine agonists. Many people with PD notice only small benefits in improvement with these drugs.
Side Effects. Common side effects of MAO-B inhibitors include flu symptoms, dizziness, and insomnia. More serious side effects may include agitation, confusion, and hallucination.
Talk with your health care provider about any other medications (both prescription and over-the-counter) and supplements you are taking. MAO-B inhibitors can interact with a number of medications, including narcotics, pain relievers, cough suppressants, and antidepressants (including the herbal remedy St. John's wort). Foods high in the amino acid tyramine may cause a dangerous increase in blood pressure, particularly if you are taking a high dose of this medicine. Foods to be avoided include processed lunch meats, soy sauce, aged cheeses, and beer.
Catechol-O-methyl transferase (COMT) inhibitor drugs are used along with levodopa/carbidopa to increase and prolong levodopa's effectiveness and prevent wearing off. Entacapone (Comtan, generic) is the standard COMT inhibitor. Stalevo (generic) is a pill that combines entacapone, levodopa, and carbidopa. A third COMT inhibitor, tolcapone (Tasmar), is only rarely prescribed due to its risks for liver damage.
Side Effects. COMT inhibitors are always used in combination with levodopa/carbidopa and may increase levodopa's dyskinesia side effect. Other side effects may include low blood pressure when standing up (orthostatic hypotension), nausea, dizziness, diarrhea, and urine discoloration.
Since 2010, the FDA has been reviewing whether Stalevo may increase the risk for heart attack and stroke. The FDA is also reviewing whether Stalevo may increase the risk of prostate cancer.
Anticholinergics were the first drugs used for PD, but they have largely been replaced by dopamine drugs. They are generally used only to control tremor in the early stages. Among the many anticholinergics are trihexyphenidyl (Artane, Trihexane, generic) and benztropine (Cogentin, generic).
Side Effects. Anticholinergics commonly cause dryness of the mouth (which can actually be an advantage in some people who experience drooling). Other side effects are nausea, urinary retention, blurred vision, and constipation. These drugs can increase heart rate and worsen constipation. Anticholinergics can sometimes cause significant mental problems, including memory loss, confusion, and even hallucinations. People with glaucoma should use these drugs with caution.
Amantadine (generic) stimulates the release of dopamine and may be used to provide temporary relief of early mild symptoms such a tremor and rigidity. It is sometimes prescribed along with levodopa/carbidopa for advanced PD to help control motor fluctuations and dyskinesia.
Side Effects. Side effects are similar to those of anticholinergic drugs, and may include swollen ankles and, in rare cases, mottled skin. Amantadine can also cause visual hallucinations, confusion, and memory loss.
Surgical procedures are recommended for specific individuals with advanced Parkinson disease (PD) whose symptoms are not controlled by drug treatments. Surgical treatment cannot cure Parkinson disease, but it may help control symptoms such as motor fluctuations and dyskinesia.
Deep brain stimulation is the current standard surgical approach for Parkinson disease. It has largely replaced pallidotomy and thalamotomy, older operations that destroy tissue in certain parts of the brain.
In deep brain stimulation (DBS), also called neurostimulation, an electric pulse generator controls symptoms such as severe tremors, wearing-off fluctuations, and dyskinesia. The generator is similar to a heart pacemaker. It sends electrical pulses to specific regions of the brain. Candidates most likely to benefit from DBS are those who have advanced PD, have responded well to levodopa drug treatment, are younger in age, and do not have significant cognitive or psychiatric problems. Some recent research suggests that DBS may also benefit people in earlier stages of the disease who have early signs of motor symptoms.
For treatment of motor symptoms, DBS usually targets one of two areas of the brain: the subthalamic nucleus (STN) or the globus pallidus pars interna (GPi). Research indicates that both areas are equally likely to respond well to DBS. DBS targeting the STN may allow people to use less medication, but treatment of this brain area may worsen depression, apathy, impulsivity, ease of using words, and falls.
For treatment of disabling tremors, DBS may be used to target the STN, GPi, or the ventral intermediate nucleus of the thalamus.
DBS should be performed by an experienced neurosurgeon who is trained in stereotactic neurosurgery (surgery that uses 3-dimensional imaging to help target specific areas of the brain).
The procedure is performed as follows:
The benefits of DBS appear to be long lasting, but it may take 3 to 6 months to achieve results. During this time, doctors may need to adjust the implanted device. Researchers are still trying to determine the best surgical techniques for implanting the DBS device, and how to best select the people who are most likely to benefit.
Pallidotomy and thalamotomy are surgical procedures that destroy brain tissue in regions of the brain associated with Parkinson symptoms such as dyskinesia, rigidity, and tremor. In these procedures, a surgeon drills a small hole in the patient's skull and inserts an electrode to destroy brain tissue. Pallidotomy targets the global pallidus area. Thalamotomy targets the thalamus. Because these procedures permanently eliminate brain tissue, most doctors now recommend deep brain stimulation instead of pallidotomy or thalamotomy.
Surgical complications may include behavioral or personality changes, trouble speaking and swallowing, facial paralysis, and vision problems. Weight gain after surgery is also common.
Scientists are investigating whether stem cells may eventually help treat Parkinson disease. Experimental surgery has shown promise using fetal brain cells rich in dopamine implanted in the substantia nigra area of the brain. Because the use of embryonic stem cells is controversial, researchers are studying alternative types of cells, including stem cells from adult brains and cells from human placentas or umbilical cords. All of this research is still preliminary.
No special diets or foods can slow the progression of Parkinson disease (PD), but certain dietary strategies may help manage symptoms.
Protein. High levels of protein can affect how much levodopa can reach the brain and can reduce the drug's effectiveness. Avoiding protein altogether is not the solution, since malnutrition can result. Most health care providers recommend reducing protein or eating most of your protein at the evening meal. Discuss a low-protein diet and other nutritional strategies with your health team.
Good control of protein intake may help minimize fluctuations and wearing-off, and allow some people with PD to reduce their daily levodopa dosage.
Fruits, Vegetables, and Fiber. Eating whole grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables is the best approach for any healthy life. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables may help protect nerve cell function. Many of these foods are also rich in fiber, which is particularly important for helping to prevent constipation.
If you are used to eating a low-fiber diet, you should try to gradually increase the amount of fiber. It is best to obtain dietary fiber, soluble or insoluble, in the natural form of whole grains, nuts, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. If it proves difficult to do so, psyllium (found in products such as Metamucil) is an excellent soluble fiber supplement. Drinking lots of fluids is particularly important for preventing constipation.
Weight Loss. For reasons that are not completely understood, many people with PD experience weight loss. Parkinson disease can affect a person's sense of smell and taste, which may make food less appetizing. Tremors (shaking) and swallowing problems can make it more difficult and tiring to eat. If you find that you are losing weight without trying, talk with your health care provider or dietitian about developing a diet plan that will meet your caloric needs.
Herbs and Supplements. There is currently no evidence for the effectiveness of any herb or dietary supplement in the treatment of Parkinson disease. Coenzyme Q10 is the most-studied supplement for early-stage PD. Clinical trials have failed to show it has any benefits.
Ginger is one natural remedy that has well-established properties for easing nausea. A simple tea made from boiling ginger root may help alleviate nausea symptoms associated with many Parkinson disease medications.
Let your health care provider know about any herb or dietary supplement you are taking, or considering taking. Some products, such as St. John's wort, can interact and interfere with the effectiveness of Parkinson medications.
Regular exercise is important for people in all stages of Parkinson disease. Exercise has a wide range of benefits. It can improve muscle strength and agility, which helps promote better walking and balance. Exercise can also help control symptoms such as fatigue, constipation, and depression.
Types of Exercise. Health care providers recommend that people with PD incorporate stretching, resistance, and aerobic exercise into their routine. Some suggestions include:
Reducing Muscle Freezing. Try to practice regular daily activities that simplify actions and reduce the incidence of muscle freezing. Most often, freezing occurs when a person with PD begins to move or is presented with an obstacle. The following tips may be helpful:
Gait Training. Practicing new methods for standing, walking, and turning may help retain balance and reduce the risk of falls. The following tips may be helpful:
People with PD can benefit from working with rehabilitative therapists. They include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. Art therapies (including dance therapy and music therapy) may also be helpful.
Physical Therapy. Exercise is an important component of rehabilitation. Physical therapy can help with physical function and quality of life. It usually includes active and passive exercise, gait training, and practice in normal activities. A physical therapist can help with passive exercise, stretching and manipulating muscles to help prevent deterioration and shortening. Active exercises are used to help range-of-motion, coordination, and speed. A physical therapist can also advise on how to best use mobility aids (such as canes, crutches, and scooters) and other assistive devices.
Speech Therapy. Speech therapy may help those who develop a monotone voice and lose volume. Certain techniques, such as the Lee Silverman Voice Technique, are designed specifically to help people with Parkinson disease speak louder. A speech therapist can also help evaluate and monitor swallowing issues.
Occupational Therapy. Occupational therapists help people learn how to improve their functioning and independence within their home and workplace environments. They can help people better manage activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, and grooming. Occupational therapists can provide professional advice on what sort of adaptive tools, such as grab bars, should be used in the bathroom, bedroom, and kitchen. They can advise on mobility devices such as wheelchairs and scooters.
Relaxation techniques and staying mentally active are important for managing stress and dealing with feelings of depression and anxiety:
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Crawford P, Zimmerman EE. Differentiation and diagnosis of tremor. Am Fam Physician. 2011;83(6):697-702.
Follett KA, Weaver FM, Stern M, Hur K, Harris CL, Luo P, et al. Pallidal versus subthalamic deep-brain stimulation for Parkinson's disease. N Engl J Med. 2010;362(22):2077-91.
Katzenschlager R, Head J, Schrag A, Ben-Shlomo Y, Evans A, Lees AJ; Parkinson's Disease Research Group of the United Kingdom. Fourteen-year final report of the randomized PDRG-UK trial comparing three initial treatments in PD. Neurology. 2008;71(7):474-80. Epub 2008 Jun 25.
Lang AE. Parkinsonism. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Textbook of Medicine. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2011:chap 41.
Lees AJ, Hardy J, Revesz T. Parkinson's disease. Lancet. 2009;373(9680):2055-66.
Lewitt PA. Levodopa for the treatment of Parkinson's disease. N Engl J Med. 2008;359(23):2468-76.
Li F, Harmer P, Fitzgerald K, Eckstrom E, Stock R, Galver J, et al. Tai chi and postural stability in patients with Parkinson's disease. N Engl J Med. 2012;366(6):511-9.
Liu R, Gao X, Lu Y, Chen H. Meta-analysis of the relationship between Parkinson disease and melanoma. Neurology. 2011;76(23):2002-9.
Miyasaki JM, Shannon K, Voon V, Ravina B, Kleiner-Fisman G, Anderson K, et al. Practice Parameter: evaluation and treatment of depression, psychosis, and dementia in Parkinson disease (an evidence-based review): report of the Quality Standards Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology. Neurology. 2006;66(7):996-1002.
Olanow CW, Stern MB, Sethi K. The scientific and clinical basis for the treatment of Parkinson disease. Neurology. 2009;72(21 Suppl 4):S1-136.
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Cycling '74 is a San Fransisco software company that makes a semi visual development environment for music, video and controller applications. An all new highly anticipated version five was released last week. I've never used the software directly but in the past some of the applications people created with it have peaked my interest. For example the Hypno VTheramin.
Now that there is a new version, updated tutorials and lots of videos I think its a good time to jump in and see why artists like Aphex Twin, Radiohead, Daft Punk, Autechre and Jamie Lidel all use it. Also remember that Ableton has announce a strategic relationship with Cycling '74 which is another good reason to understand the product.
In use for over twenty years by performers, composers, artists, scientists, teachers, and students, Max is the way to make your computer do things that reflect your individual ideas and dreams. Version 5 is a dramatic transformation of Max that begins a new chapter in the program's history. – cycling74.com
People are using this software to create synthesizers, samplers, control Monomes and lighting rigs. Some people compare it to Native Instrument's Reaktor but I think Max goes further? Jitter is the video and matrix processing component which I believe there is no counter in Reaktor. Correct me if I am wrong as I am learning.
Here are some more links worth checking out. I will be re-reading these pages until I jump into the actually software and start designing my own toys:
Visit the Cycling '74 website: click here
The Cycling '74 page on YouTube: click here
Create Digital Music – Max 5 Preview: click here
So do you use Max/MSP/Jitter? Please let me know in the comments what your doing with it.


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Stoke City apparently has raised its offer for FC Dallas winger Brek Shea, who has left for England to take a physical and then complete his transfer to the Premier League club.
"We expect that to be decided on here in the next day or two. If it goes through, it goes through," Dallas coach Schellas Hyndman told reporters Tuesday afternoon. "If not, he'll be on the next plane back and a member of FC Dallas.
"You know how it works. It's no different than when we talk to a player. We try to get him for as least as we can. We identify a player, we like a player, can we work out a deal? Well I want this, we're not going to give you that. Then if you aren't going to give me that, then you disappear for a while and you talk again."
Stoke's original bid for the 22-year-old was rumored to be a bit over $3 million and while Dallas agreed to the move, MLS wanted more. The league owns all player contracts and felt that Shea, a 2011 MVP finalist and U.S. national teamer already signed through 2015, was more valuable.
Stoke officials said last week that the deal likely was off and Shea continued training with Dallas, but behind the scenes the EPL club returned with an offer that matched MLS' valuation. No Short Corners, a blog run by MLSSoccer.com's European correspondent, reported that Stoke will pay nearly $6 million for Shea's rights.
If the figure is accurate, it represents a significant victory for MLS. League officials believe that young, talented and marketable players like Shea have worth that transcends their performance on the field. MLS also is wary of European clubs that might undervalue American players and has opted to remain firm in negotiations.
Stoke—which already employs U.S. national team defender Geoff Cameron and midfielder Maurice Edu (on loan to Turkey's Bursaspor)—plays a direct, long-ball style that often bypasses the midfield and which might not suit Shea's particular skill set. But Shea will improve by adapting (or will allow Stoke to add a new wrinkle to its attack) and won't allow a style of play to deter him from his dream move to England.
After five years at Dallas, Shea reportedly is eager for a change in scenery.
MLS clubs keep two-thirds of the transfer fee, and Hyndman must spend it wisely. With Shea gone and forward Blas Pérez facing a long year of double duty with FCD and the Panamanian national team, Dallas will be in the market for offensive reinforcements. Both Pérez and David Ferreira were slowed by injury last season and only two players on FCD's roster, Pérez and 20-year-old Colombian Fabián Castillo, scored more than five league goals in 2012.
"I think we've all talked about all the opportunities that are out there for MLS players," Hyndman said. "Brek is one those players that has done well, caught people's attention. Congratulations to him, congratulations to FC Dallas for developing him. At the same time, right now he's a member of FC Dallas and until I'm told differently we're expecting him to be a part of the team."
Stoke is in 10th place in the EPL at 6-6-11. The Potters were scheduled to host Wigan Athletic on Tuesday.


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Off the Charts
After several days of consolidation, the S&P (SPY) finally broke out above the September 2012 high of 1474. The S&P closed the day up 0.56% at its highest levels since 2007.
While it was good to see the market break out to new highs, the action still seems a little questionable. The tape is still rather lethargic and there are mixed signals across the board. The breadth of the rally today wasn't impressive, either. However, the trend is still your friend so stay with stocks showing relative strength and consider using the SPY as your hedge at strategic points....766 more words left in this article. To read them, just click below and try Real Money FREE for 14 days.
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Last week, the US State Department brought a group of seven women from the Africa Women's Entrepreneurship Program on a tour of Bob's Red Mill. This group, representing Benin, Ghana, Malawi, Nigeria, and Zambia, was touring around the United States to learn about different industries and how they can improve their businesses at home.
Topics included information on organic growing practices, import/export advice, overcoming social barriers, different packaging options, raising capital and crafting business plans. Each of these women own some type of business including organic farms, beauty products and investment firms, among others. After first visiting several cities on the East Coats, Portland was lucky enough to be asked to host this group and on the list of destinations was Bob's Red Mill.
On Monday, June 11th, Bob and our Outreach Coordinator, Lori Sobelson, gave these ladies the grand tour of Bob's Red Mill. Bob inspired these women with his stories of entrepreneurship (all of which you can read in his biography, People before Profit). The group was very interested in learning about his many ups and downs on his path to founding Bob's Red Mill. Bob entreated them to value their employees and treat them as the very important asset that they are to the success of a company.
Afterwards, they met with our VP of Marketing, Dennis Gilliam to learn a little bit about how we market our products. Dennis taught them that the job of any marketer is to craft a genuine story around their brand. He asked each woman to tell them her story and as they did, you could see their faces light up and the passion each of them had for their business.
Truly, we learned as much from them as they learned from us and we hope to host another such tour in the future.


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American Honda today reported September 2012 U.S. sales of 117,211 units, an increase of 30.9 percent compared with September 2011. The Honda Division posted September 2012 sales of 102,845 units, an increase of 29.3 percent compared with September 2011. Acura's U.S. September sales of 14,366 units increased 43.5 percent compared with September 2011.
"The all-new 2013 Accord hit dealerships in mid-September and our dealers are already seeing a significant increase in customer traffic surrounding the new model," said John Mendel, American Honda executive vice president of sales. "Combined with the strength of key models such as Civic, CR-V and Odyssey, Honda is once again firing on all cylinders as we enter fall."
"Acura's core models of TL and MDX continue as a driving force for the brand," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. "Now, we have new products such as RDX setting monthly sales records and the ILX continuing to carve out a foothold as the gateway to our lineup."
The daily selling rate (DSR) is calculated with 25 days for September 2012 and 25 days for September 2011. Year-to-date, the DSR is calculated with 230 days for 2012 and 229 days for 2011. All other percentages in release are unadjusted; see table for adjusted DSR figures.
For more information about Honda vehicles, please visit www.automobiles.honda.com. For media inquiries please visit www.hondanews.com. For more information about Acura vehicles, please visit www.acura.com. For media inquiries please visit www.acuranews.com.


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CHICAGO — Due to devastating spring freezes, Michigan's apple crop will be 85% lighter than last year and New York's 52% lighter, according to the annual crop estimate from the Vienna, Va.-based U.S. Apple Association.
At its annual Apple Crop Outlook & Marketing Conference Aug. 17 in Chicago, U.S. Apple estimated a 2012-13 crop of about 202 million bushels, 10% less than the year before but 10 million bushels above the 2012-13 U.S. Department of Agriculture forecast.
About 3.5 million bushels are expected in Michigan, one million bushels more than the USDA estimate. New York is expected to ship about 14 million bushels, similar to the USDA estimate.
While production is down significantly in the second- and third-largest apple-producing states, volumes are expected to be up in industry leader Washington and in Pennsylvania, the fourth-largest producer.
Washington growers should ship about 145 million bushels in 2012-13, 13% more than last season, according to U.S. Apple, whose estimate exceeds the USDA estimate by 10 million bushels.
Pennsylvania is expected to produce about 11 milllion bushels, up 1% from last year and comparable to this season's USDA estimate.


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Galen Canvas Tote Bags are an Idakoos specialtiy! Idakoos has many things to offer. Whether you want to get a Galen Canvas Tote Bag for a special occasion, give a Galen Tote Bag as a present or need to represent with a funny Custom Galen Bag during Holidays or Family and Friends get-togethers, Idakoos is sure to have the right Galen Canvas Tote Bag for you! Even if it turns out you can't find the right Custom Galen Bag with the perfect design for your mother, father or children (or friends!); Idakoos offers all of its Galen Canvas Tote Bags as Custom Galen Tote Bags. Personalize any Galen Canvas Tote Bag the way you want to ensure the perfect gift.
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"Our Daughters Have the Chance to Be Anything They Want to Be"
President Obama speaking at the Women's Leadership Forum in Washington, D.C. last night:
The cause of women aren't just important to me as President--they are personal. I saw my grandmother hit a glass ceiling at the bank where she worked for years. She could have been the best bank president they ever had, but she never got that chance. I saw how Michelle was made to balance work and family when she was a vice president at a hospital. As a father, I want to make sure that my daughters and all of our daughters have the chance to be anything that they want. That's the America that we believe in. That's the America we're fighting for.
So, to all of you who are activists in your communities, in your neighborhoods, in your work places, I want to say thank you for everything that you've already done to help advance the cause of justice and equality, and prosperity and fairness. But I also want to underscore that we are not close to being finished. We are not close to being finished.
Working together, we can make a difference-invest in the campaign here.