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Joining the ranks of food companies that want pork suppliers to stop using gestation-sow stalls is Sysco, headquartered in Houston, Texas. With a 17.5 percent market share, Sysco is North America's largest foodservice distributor.
Sysco officials sent a statement to The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), saying, "Sysco takes its role as a responsible corporate citizen in the food supply chain seriously. We use science-based standards for animal welfare and work diligently with our suppliers to ensure humane treatment of animals. We also listen closely to our customers desires. Although there are many ways to house sows, several customers and suppliers have expressed their desire to eliminate gestation crates from their supply chains. Therefore, Sysco is committed to working with its suppliers to create a gestation crate-free supply system, for the good of all. Like many of our customers, we're going to work with our pork suppliers to develop a timeline to achieve this goal."
The company has not yet committed to a gestation-stall-free timeline. "As you can imagine, the Sysco supply system is quite complex," says Matthew Prescott, HSUS food policy director. "Needless to say, Sysco distributes an enormous quantity of pork to restaurants and other food outlets of all sizes."
Sysco has more than 180 locations in the United States, Canada and Ireland, and serves more than 400,000 customers worldwide with an estimated $40 billion in sales last year.
Restaurants make up 62 percent of Sysco's customer base, but it also supplies food products to healthcare and educational facilities, sports venues, lodging establishments and other outlets that prepare meals away from home. According to the company's website, it offers 400,000 products and has 40,000 Sysco branded products.
While Sysco has a long list of suppliers, those providing pork "that met or exceeded" the company's standards and were recognized in its "2012 Sysco Supplier Excellence Awards" program were: Gold level, Sara Lee (now Hillshire Brands); Silver, JBS; Bronze, Smithfield, Tyson, Cargill, Clemens Food Group and Sugardale.
Of the pork providers on that list, Smithfield has pledged to eliminate gestation stalls in its company-owned facilities by 2017. Cargill reportedly has 50 percent of its gestating sows out of stalls.
Sysco is focusing on and promoting its sustainability path—"we seek and implement ways to influence the entire foodservice lifecycle. From advocating low-impact farming methods to using hybrid diesel delivery trucks to providing local and organic foods and biodegradable takeout containers, we strive to do what's right for our business, our community and our planet," the company outlines on its website.
Wayne Pacelle, HSUS president and chief executive officer, says Sysco's decision is one more within the broader food retail sector, which is conveying "an emphatic 'no confidence' vote in the pork industry's production practices."


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TO BIOLOGIST SAM DROEGE, they are "the teddy bears of the bee world." Fat, fuzzy and occasionally clumsy fliers, "bumblebees are cute," says Droege, who heads the U.S. Geological Survey's Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab. "People project emotions on them"—an assertion backed by the many children's books and songs featuring bumblebees.
All members of the genus Bombus, the world's roughly 250 bumblebee species are critical pollinators. In natural ecosystems, bees are by far the most important pollinators of native plants, and the insects are essential to producing more than a third of the foods and beverages humans consume—an industry worth hundreds of billions of dollars annually. Bumblebees are particularly major players: Because their large bodies allow them to generate heat, the insects can fly earlier and later in the day and in colder weather than most bee species, including honeybees.
Bumblebees are also strong flyers. Powered by contractions of the thorax, or midsection, the insects' wings beat 130 or more times per second. That prowess, combined with their size, allows bumblebees to perform a unique service, "buzz pollination" (vibrating flowers until they release pollen), that helps plants produce more fruit. And bumblebees' significance as pollinators has been growing in recent years as managed colonies of European honeybees decline.
But it turns out that bumblebees are in trouble, too. In North America, four once-common, widespread Bombus species have vanished from large portions of their former ranges. A fifth may already be extinct. Scientists are seeing similar losses in Europe, South America and Asia, reports Sarina Jepsen, endangered species program director for The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation and deputy chair of the IUCN Bumblebee Specialist Group. A new analysis conducted for IUCN—unpublished as this article went to press—reveals that even more of this continent's nearly 50 Bombus species are suffering. "We've found that almost a third of North American bumblebee species are declining, and some are threatened with extinction," Jepsen says.
A handful of experts first noticed problems with U.S. bumblebees in the late 1990s. After hearing about losses of the western bumblebee (right) to disease in California greenhouses, biologist Robbin Thorp, professor emeritus at the University of California–Davis, took a look at how the insects' wild counterparts were faring. He and other researchers discovered that this once-widespread native had disappeared from much of its range. A closely related species, Franklin's bumblebee—always restricted to portions of Oregon and California—was even worse off. Neither Thorp nor any other scientist has been able to find this bee since 2006.
Simultaneously, researchers elsewhere in the country reported that three additional Bombus species were missing from regions where they once were common. Because these losses seemed sudden—and because most declining species are closely related, unlike others in the same habitats that appeared fine—"the evidence in these cases pointed to disease as the culprit," Thorp says.
Specifically, Thorp believes that when bumblebee queens were shipped to Europe in the early 1990s to generate colonies for crop pollination in the United States, the colonies brought back a nonnative parasitic fungus that wiped out wild relatives with no prior exposure to the pathogen. So far his hypothesis has been supported by experimental evidence.
In 1994, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) suspended bumblebee shipments between Europe and the United States, yet scientists remain concerned about the domestic Bombus trade—an industry that has grown exponentially during the past two decades as demand for bumblebee-pollinated berries, tree fruits, peppers and, especially, hothouse tomatoes has skyrocketed. Unregulated by the federal government, commercial bumblebee producers routinely transport insects to parts of the country where they are not native. Even in cases where bees are intended for use only in greenhouses, nonnatives escape, potentially outcompeting indigenous bumblebees and threatening them with a host of novel parasites and other pathogens.
Four years ago, a coalition of scientists and conservation groups, including Thorp and The Xerces Society, petitioned USDA to begin regulating the bumblebee trade. Specifically, they're asking the department to prohibit transfer of bumblebees outside their native ranges and to establish a system for certifying that bee shipments are disease-free. So far, USDA has not acted on the petition.
Bumblebees face many other threats, including habitat loss, pesticides, climate change and, outside Europe, competition from nonnative honeybees. Of particular concern to many conservationists is a new class of popular insecticides, the neonicotinoids, that are long lasting and absorbed by the vascular systems of plants, meaning bees are exposed to the poisons through nectar and pollen. Beyond killing the insects, "a rapidly growing body of research shows that these compounds have sublethal effects on bumblebees, ranging from decreased colony production to diminished foraging success," Jepsen says.
Some activists have asked the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to ban neonicotinoids—a ban in place already in Europe—which are widely used both on crops and ornamental plants. Scientists such as Droege are not convinced. "If we get rid of the neonics, farmers will turn to other insecticides that could be worse," he says. Another potential problem with pesticide bans: "The less food we produce per acre, the more land gets plowed under," Droege adds, "and habitat loss is a big problem for bees."
Yet Droege and other scientists and conservationists agree that neonicotinoids should be avoided for "cosmetic" purposes—cases where food crops and human health are not at risk. Moreover, "they should not be used on plants that are particularly attractive to bumblebees," Jepsen says. A particularly egregious example of such misuse occurred last June, when contractors at a shopping center in Wilsonville, Oregon, sprayed the neonicotinoid dinotefuran on bumblebee-laden linden trees around a parking lot. The incident killed an estimated 50,000 of the insects, the largest single bumblebee die-off ever recorded.
Fortunately, the news about bumblebees is not all bad. Last summer, insect hunters in Washington and Oregon spotted and photographed several western bumblebees in locations where they had vanished. To Thorp, the news suggests that some bees carrying genes that provide resistance to the nonnative fungus may have survived and passed that tolerance along to their progeny. In eastern North America, participants in a Xerces Society citizen science program have reported a handful of rusty-patched bumblebees (left) in habitats thought to have lost this severely depleted species.
The most encouraging news of all, perhaps, is the extent to which such citizen scientists, along with gardeners and other nonbiologists, can help bumblebees. "From the products you buy in the hardware store or nursery to how you plant and manage your property, nearly anyone can contribute to conserving these indispensable pollinators," Jepsen says.
The Xerces Society and five partners recently launched a citizen science initiative to track North America's bumblebee species. The project will help biologists learn more about these essential pollinators. To participate, visit www.bumblebeewatch.org.
To learn more about the problems bumblebees are facing and how to help the insects, go to www.xerces.org/bumblebees.
Bumblebees face many threats, ranging from pesticides and disease to overgrazing, climate change and competition from European honeybees. While individuals can do little to combat many of these problems, anyone with a garden—no matter how large or small—can make a difference for bumblebees that live nearby.
Here's how to get started:
Provide pollen and nectar for food: Active from early spring through late fall, bumblebees need access to a variety of nectar- and pollen-producing flowers so food will be available throughout all stages of the insects' life. Bumblebees prefer flowers that are purple, blue or yellow as well as perennial versus annual plants. To accommodate species with varying tongue lengths, cultivate flowers of different sizes. Native plants are best because they require less maintenance, rarely become invasive and have coevolved with indigenous bumblebees. To see a list of native plant recommendations for your region, go to www.xerces.org/lbj.
Ensure bumblebees have nesting sites: Unlike the majority of native bees, bumblebees, like honeybees, are social insects that live in colonies containing between 50 and 500 members. Most bumblebee species nest underground, usually in abandoned holes created by ground squirrels, mice or rats. Others nest aboveground in abandoned bird nests, grass tussocks or cavities such as hollow logs or spaces beneath rocks. In gardens, the insects make use of compost piles and unoccupied birdhouses. Having as many of these habitat features as possible will help bumblebees, as will minimizing practices such as mowing and tilling that destroy both nests and potential future nest sites.
Provide overwintering habitat: In late fall, bumblebee colonies die, leaving behind only new queens, which will hibernate during winter and emerge the following spring to form new colonies. Most queens overwinter in small holes just below or on the ground's surface. In yards and other human-dominated landscapes, they may seek shelter in sheds, rock walls and woodpiles. Leaving leaf litter, downed wood and uncut bunch grasses provides additional options. If you mow, do so with the mower blade set at the highest safe level. When spring arrives, avoid raking or mowing until April or May to protect hibernating queens.
Avoid or minimize pesticides: Designed to kill insects, insecticides should be avoided, as should herbicides that may kill the plants on which bumblebees depend. In cases where pesticides cannot be avoided—to control a destructive invasive species, for example—The Xerces Society recommends that you "choose targeted formulations with the least-toxic ingredients, follow the manufacturer's directions, apply the pesticide as directly and locally as possible and apply when bumblebees are not active (either after dark or during winter)." In addition, steer clear of systemic pesticides (such as neonicotinoids, which are taken up by the vascular systems of plants) and broad-spectrum pesticides (such as organophosphates and pyrethroids).
Senior Editor Laura Tangley gardens for bumblebees and other pollinators in her Washington, D.C., Certified Wildlife Habitat® site.
Become an NWF Wildlife Gardener. It's free and you will receive great gardening tips and learn how to certify your yard as a Certified Wildlife Habitat® site or your community as part of NWF's Community Wildlife Habitat® program.
During May, NWF will plant a tree for each yard certified during Garden for Wildlife Month.

subset: commoncrawl


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Thanissaro Bhikkhu wrote:It's very common when we come to the practice that we bring along some very strong notions of who we are or the kind of person we'd like to be: "I'm this sort of person. I want to be this sort of person." This type of thinking is very common. And yet it's not all that helpful, because that concept of who we are is very nebulous, based on all kinds of information and misinformation. It often gets in the way of what's the best thing to do at any given moment.
This is why the Buddha says to put those questions aside — "Who am I? Who am I going to be? Who have I been in the past?" — not only in their philosophical, abstract or metaphysical sense, but also in their psychological sense. Just look at what opportunities you have right here, right now for thinking, acting and speaking in skillful ways. That kind of question — "What's the most skillful thing to do right now?" — is a useful question. This is what the Buddha was getting at when he said to put thoughts of "me," "myself," "what I have been," "what I will be" aside.
From: Skillful Thinking by Thanissaro Bhikkhu
With metta / dhammapal.


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"Agriculturists -- it's time for us to stand up," encourages Jasmine Dillon, a graduate student in animal breeding at Texas A&M University in a YouTube video.
She goes on to refute the notion -- stirred up recently in the popular press -- that agriculture, animal science and horticulture are useless degrees.
"...if that were true, then could you tell me please how it is possible for you to roll out of your silk sheets, brush your teeth with toothpaste made from cotton seed, eat your corn pops breakfast cereal and drink your 2 percent milk," Dillion says.
Earlier this year, an article featured on Yahoo! Education listed three agriculture-degrees in a list naming the top five worthless degrees.
The story has since died down…until now.
The group Farmers Fight, a Texas A&M University-based group of ag students, released a video to reconnect American society to the world of agriculture.
Not all non-agriculture media sources agree with the article in Yahoo! Education. National Public Radio featured a series on the economic transition of the Midwest. Agriculture is one of the biggest drivers of local economics in the region, accounting for billions of dollars in exports and adding thousands of jobs to rural communities. In addition, Purdue University College of Agriculture has reported a placement rate increase for graduates for the second consecutive year.
Find out more about Farmers Fight through their blog.
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THE DUSTUP over the regional alphabet agencies' attempts to mandate high-density housing in Marin is due to a philosophical divide.
On one side are young planners taught in grad school to despise the notion of suburbia. Neighborhoods of detached single-family homes are bad. Urban-style condos and high-rise rentals are good.
Oddly, exceptions are quietly made for single-family or duplex neighborhoods in places like San Francisco and Oakland. Perhaps that's because some of the more senior planners reside there.
On the other side of the debate are those who regard single-family, middle class homes as the American ideal.
Marinites often reject the idea that they live in "suburbia," a word long disdained by the intelligentsia. We accurately think that we live in a collection of distinct small towns that are coincidentally just outside a big city.
Even America's most recent immigrants embrace the detached single-family residential model and associated lifestyle. That's one of many reasons why they immigrated here for a better life. The planners aren't completely wrong, but there are trade- offs.
Most Americans value personal choice as the higher goal. That should be their right in any democracy.
That's not to deny there's a legitimate need to zone for housing that's affordable while being appropriate for Americans' changing household composition.
Here's where those who favor personal choice over regional agencies' command-control planning need to shine.
As I have written before, homeowners must counter the high-density push with viable alternatives. They not only need to be sincere but intellectually rigorous.
That's essential not just to prepare for the possibility of litigation to overturn Plan Bay Area, but because everyone should value facts over the ideology of social engineering.
Start the list of alternatives to high-density development with second units.
I've just had an opportunity to view plans for "Backyard Cottage 2012." The idea is to increase affordability in an existing suburban setting. It doesn't challenge suburban lifestyles; it enhances them. The model was part of the "Making Room" exhibit at the Museum of the City of New York.
The model is for well-designed detached single-person second units as small as 25 by 15 feet.
A group of Washington state architects devised the modular concept allowing multiple floorplans, sizes and designs ranging from wood-shingled to contemporary.
They provide affordability, diversity and environmentally sensitive construction on typically large suburban lots.
Since the units are all in the private sector, they pay property taxes, supporting the infrastructure that any increase in housing demands.
For existing homeowners, the Backyard Cottage doesn't detract from property values. Instead, they enhance them, possibly providing additional income.
They're even appropriate for Section 8-like rent subsidies.
Jurisdictions will not only need to zone for innovative second units; they must lower the often high fees and convoluted procedures that hinder their current use.
Is Backyard Cottage the sole alternative to fend off the bureaucrats' goal to urbanize Marin? No, but it's one on a list that needs to be raised demonstrating that there are far better ways to accomplish legitimate goals without jamming one-size-fits-all high-density zoning down the throats of current residents.
LAST WEEK, I complimented the Transportation Authority of Marin on its cutback of staff's wasteful attempt to spend $500,000 on consultants to reexamine the much-opposed $143 million Highway 101-Greenbrae plan.
I complimented Supervisor Kate Sears and Corte Madera Mayor Diane Furst for their roles. The kudos should have gone to Sears and Supervisor Susan Adams for leading the overdue burst of common sense. Adams earned the thumbs up.
Columnist Dick Spotswood of Mill Valley now shares his views on local politics twice weekly in the IJ. His email address is firstname.lastname@example.com.


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WASHINGTONThe first order of business for a new Congress on Friday was a scheduled vote on national flood insurance legislation to help victims of superstorm Sandy, a contentious issue for House Republicans and Speaker John Boehner, whose colleagues a day earlier only narrowly re-elected him to the job.
The 113th Congress welcomed dozens of new members Thursday to long-festering national problems, deficits and immigration among them, in an intensely partisan and crisis-driven era of divided government.
Boehner barely retained his powerful position as the new Congress opened for business, despite a mini-revolt in his own party over the "fiscal cliff" deal and the bruising fight over the legislation for victims of Superstorm Sandy, which battered New York and New Jersey communities in October.
Boehner kept his job in a government in which President Obama will soon be sworn in to a second term and his fellow Democrats control the Senate. Fourteen Republicans declined to vote for Boehner, a reflection of their unhappiness with his leadership, but several more defections would have been needed to deny him a first-ballot victory.
- Gov. Christie rips GOP House leaders on Sandy aid
- Stymied Sandy victim depending on Congress to pass relief bill
- Amid backlash, Boehner schedules Sandy vote
Boehner promised the vote on Sandy aid would take place Friday, changing course after he was blasted by members of his own party Wednesday for putting it off.
A follow-up disaster aid measure, which Boehner has said will be brought to a vote on Jan. 15, would add $27 billion -- more if the bill grows, as seems likely, after it is reconciled with a $60-billion Senate version.
If the House approves the flood insurance proposal, the Senate plans to follow with a likely uncontested vote later Friday, according to a Senate Democratic leadership aide.
About 140,000 Sandy-related flood insurance claims have been filed, officials of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) said, and most have yet to be closed out. Many flood victims have only received partial payments on their claims.
FEMA is warning that the National Flood Insurance Program will run out of money next week if Congress doesn't provide additional borrowing authority to pay out claims. Congress created the FEMA-run program in 1968 because few private insurers cover flood damage.
Sandy was the most costly natural disaster since Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and was blamed for at least 120 deaths. Northeast lawmakers have complained that it took just 10 days for Congress to approve about $50 billion in aid for Katrina but that it hasn't provided aid for Sandy relief in more than two months.
The backlash over Boehner's handling of the Sandy legislation came on the heels of a near-rebellion by tax-opposing conservatives over a deal to avoid the "fiscal cliff," a self-imposed Jan. 1 deadline for widespread tax increases and deep spending cuts to take hold. The deal finally passed late Tuesday to raise taxes on the richest Americans while protecting the middle class and the poor.
Mr. Obama signed the bill early Thursday.
Boehner must now shepherd Congress through new battles over raising the country's $16.4 trillion borrowing limit and $109 billion in spending cuts for the military and domestic programs, which this week's fiscal cliff deal delayed by just two months.
Moments after grasping an oversized gavel that symbolizes his authority, Boehner implored the assembly of newcomers and veterans to tackle the nation's heavy burden of debt at long last. "We have to be willing -- truly willing -- to make this right," he said.
"The American dream is in peril so long as its namesake is weighed down by this anchor of debt," Boehner said.
Only Congress has the power to raise the debt limit.
Republicans have said they intend to seek significant savings from government health care and other benefit programs to gain control over spending. M r. Obama has said he won't bargain over the government's borrowing authority. He has also said he is open to changes in benefit programs, but would face resistance on that from liberal Democrats.
Republicans kept their majority in the House, but will have a smaller advantage, 235-199. Democrats tightened their grip on the Senate for a 55-45 edge, ensuring that Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid will remain in charge.
Reid had a bad week himself, after his frustrated Republican counterpart in the Senate instead reached out to Vice President Joe Biden, a Senate veteran, to put together the eventual fiscal cliff deal.
Reid said he, too, is ready for attempts to rein in federal spending, but laid down a few conditions.
"Any future budget agreements must balance the need for thoughtful spending reductions with revenue from the wealthiest among us and closing wasteful tax loopholes," he said. That was in keeping with Obama's remarks after Congress had agreed on fiscal cliff legislation to raise taxes for the wealthy while keeping them level for the middle class.
Boehner and Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell have other ideas, both having said in recent days that the days of raising taxes are over.
"Now is the time to get serious about spending," McConnell said. "And if the past few weeks have taught us anything, that means the president needs to show up early this time."
While neither Boehner nor Reid mentioned immigration in their opening-day speeches, Mr. Obama is expected to highlight the issue in the first State of the Union address of his new term. Lawmakers are already working toward a compromise they hope can clear both houses.
Most Democrats have long favored legislation to give millions of illegal immigrants a chance at citizenship, and Republicans have stoutly resisted. Now, though, many Republicans appear ready to reconsider, after watching with alarm as Mr. Obama ran up an estimated 71 percent of the Hispanic vote in winning re-election over Mitt Romney in November.


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Gallery: Washington Middle School attend performance of Shakespeare's CYMBELINE at A Noise Within
PASADENA - After seeing the first act of Shakespeare's "Cymbeline" at A Noise Within's theater, 12-year-old Brian Perdomo was ready for more.
"It's good, a little hard, but I understood it because I was following the action," said Brian, one of about 150 Washington Middle School students at a matinee performance Wednesday. "There was this king's daughter, and she married this guy that the king didn't like behind his back."
Pretty good synopsis of the start of one of Shakespeare's later, and rarely performed, works that his seventh-grade English and world history teacher Amy Manasarian said fits into the class curriculum.
"Shakespeare is part of history and English, and it's a great way for them to see it live and in person," said Manasarian, whose class is studying the Renaissance and Elizabethan eras.
"It's good to connect the curriculum to outside the classroom," she said. "They're excited."
Julia Rodriguez-Elliott, co-founder and co-artistic director of A Noise Within - now in its second season in Pasadena - said Shakespeare is always "very big" with student audiences.
"Cymbeline," she said, has a "complicated plot that throws in a little bit of everything, a little bit of `Hamlet,' a little bit of `Othello."'
And the play's romantic, "fairy-tale" elements, played up by director Bart DeLorenzo, appeal to young audiences, she said.
The performance, followed by a "talk back" with the cast, was staged in A Noise Within's theater in East Pasadena as part of the "Classics Live" program.
of current productions are presented by
The classical repertory company presents up to 15 matinees for students throughout the year, Rodriguez-Elliott said. About 10,000 students from a wide area take part, she said.
Brian, for one, was looking forward to brushing up his Shakespeare plays for a return visit.
"I just heard of one called `Hamlet,"' the 12-year-old said. "I want to see that one."
For more information on the company's 2012-13 season or or educational programs, visit anoisewithin.org.


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text: BMA Artists Agency provides professional actresses of all ages for all major film & TV productions. We provide female actresses for all major TV commercials, radio, film work, and television productions. Our actresses star in top blockbuster movies, TV programs & series, and TV commercials. BMA Artists is London's and Europe's one stop artist management companies and provides female actors of all ethnicities. We are London and Europe's top acting agency with offices in London, Dubai & Beirut. BMA Artists is the UK and Europe's 'one-stop-talent agency'.


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text: OverviewBack to top BioFreeze - Pain Relieving Gel with Pump - 16 oz. Item# :104008UPC# :731124110022 Brand:BioFreeze Size/Form:16 oz. Ship Weight:1 BioFreeze Pain Relieving Gel - 16 oz. Biofreeze Pain Relieving Gel with soothing natural menthol and ILEX. BiofreezeGel a penetrating, long lasting pain relief from arthritis, sore muscles & joints to back pain. Biofreeze Pain Relieving Gel applied from a tube is your opportunity to create a more thorough application by massaging the affected area during application. Through massage the you'll benefits from an increased blood flow and warming of the region at the cellular level. Cryotherapy - The Cold Method Biofreeze Pain Relieving products are the most widely-used and confidently- recommended products by hands-on health professionals for over 15 years. It is the pain reliever of choice for chiropractors, podiatrists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, massage therapists and athletic trainers. Biofreeze Pain Reliever offers temporary relief of minor aches and pains related to: Back, Shoulder, and Neck strains Ankle, Knee, Hip and Elbow joint discomfort Muscle sprains and strains Q & A Q: What is Cryotherapy? A: Cryotherapy works by creating a cooling sensation that is transmitted through the nerve endings to the brain. It transmits at speeds faster than most pain sensations or warming sensations. Unlike icing an area, Biofreeze allows blood to continue to flow to the area so that it can be naturally repaired. Q: Can I use a heating pad while also using Biofreeze? A: No, you should never use a heating pad while using Biofreeze. Biofreeze works by causing a cooling effect, not heat. By using a heating pad in conjunction with Biofreeze, you may cause serious injury to yourself. You may not be able to tell how hot the heating pad is on the problem area, even possibly causing yourself to experience severe blistering. Q: Is Biofreeze vegetarian friendly? A: Yes Biofreeze is vegetarian friendly, no animal products are used in the ingredients. Biofreeze is also not animal tested. Q: Does Biofreeze contain any gluten or other grain-based products? A: No Q: Can I use Biofreeze to cool sunburn pain, in a tanning bed or sauna? A: No, Biofreeze is not recommended for use in any of these instances Q: My child or pet ate Biofreeze, what do I do? A: If your child placed it in mouth but did not swallow, flood mouth with lukewarm water and rinse out mouth throughly. If your child swallowed Biofreeze, flood mouth with lukewarm water. Try to induce vomiting. A glass of buttermilk will assist in negating irritation of the stomach. If a large amount is consumed, contact a Poison Control Center. Please note: A child would have to swallow 100 5-gram packets (est.18 oz) to cause an adverse reaction. Pet Warning – Contact your veterinarian immediately. Animals will not drink water on command. Animals have a highly developed sense of smell and the menthol, camphor and alcohol contact will warn them away from ingesting the product. It overwhelms their sense of smell and therefore, does not appear as food or something appetizing. Biofreeze should not hurt them, but it is always best to contact your veterinarian in any instance where Biofreeze has been ingested by your pet. The History of Biofreeze Biofreeze was first introduced to the world by a medical professional who was searching for a way to help his grandmother manage her arthritis pain. The formula he created consisted of the active ingredient menthol with a synergistic blend of inactive ingredients. The resulting formula offered quick, effective pain relief without the use of prescription drugs. Today, Biofreeze products are providing relief to countless arthritis sufferers. But the pain reliever's unique, cooling formulation is also comforting to sore muscles and muscle sprains; easing back, shoulder and neck pain; reducing painful ankle, knee, hip and elbow joints and helping to lessen effects of muscular strains. The company that launched Biofreeze was Performance Health, Inc. This company was acquired by the Hygenic Corporation in 2006. The Hygenic Corporation is located in Akron, Ohio and serves the hands-on healthcare professional markets with pain management solutions and with its Thera-Band brand product portfolio of Systems of Trusted Progression.


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A Phase 2A Dose-ranging and Pharmacokinetic Study of an Oral Vitamin D Compound (DP001) in Secondary Hyperparathyroidism
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|Secondary Hyperparathyroidism
|Drug: DP001
|Phase 2
|Study Type:
|Study Design:
|Intervention Model: Single Group Assignment
Masking: None (Open Label)
Primary Purpose: Treatment
|Official Title:
|A Phase 2A, Open-label, Dose-ranging and Pharmacokinetic Study of an Oral Vitamin D Compound (DP001) in Secondary Hyperparathyroidism in Patients on Hemodialysis
- Change in intact parathyroid hormone levels in blood [ Time Frame: Baseline and 4 weeks ]
- Blood levels of DP001 [ Time Frame: Multiple time points following single dose and 4 weeks of dosing ]1, 2, 4, 8, 24, and 48 hours following a single dose; 1, 2, 4, 8, 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours following multiple doses
|Study Start Date:
|August 2012
|Study Completion Date:
|July 2014
|Primary Completion Date:
|July 2014 (Final data collection date for primary outcome measure)
|Assigned Interventions
Experimental: DP001
DP001 softgel capsules; 55 ng to 550 ng per dose, administered 3 times weekly for 4 weeks
Drug: DP001
DP001 softgel capsules; 55 ng to 550 ng per dose, administered 3 times weekly for 4 weeks
Detailed Description:
Vitamin D hormone or analogs, when bound to the vitamin D receptor, suppress PTH synthesis by binding to a negative regulatory element in the promoter of the PTH gene, and have been used successfully in the clinic to reduce elevated PTH levels in dialysis patients and other CKD patients. DP001 is a highly potent vitamin D compound.
In two clinical trials testing DP001 in postmenopausal women, oral DP001 reduced PTH levels in a dose-dependent manner, with a dose of 220 ng lowering PTH by at least 30% in a majority of patients following one or six months of daily dosing.
This study is an open-label, dose-ranging study of DP001 in ESRD patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism. Cohorts of up to 6 patients will be enrolled and administered oral DP001 at 110 ng three times per week for four weeks. Laboratory data from each cohort will be assessed and used to determine a dose for the next cohort. Up to 5 dose-ranging cohorts will be studied, with the goal of identifying an appropriate dose for a randomized, placebo-controlled study of oral DP001 for 12 weeks. The data will also be used to select an appropriate dose for an additional cohort of 12 open-label patients in the current study in which the pharmacokinetics of DP001 following a single dose and after repeated doses will be studied.
|Ages Eligible for Study:
|18 Years and older (Adult, Senior)
|Sexes Eligible for Study:
|Accepts Healthy Volunteers:
Inclusion Criteria:
- Patient is diagnosed with ESRD and must be on hemodialysis 3 times per week for at least 3 months
- Plasma intact PTH value >/= 300 pg/mL
Exclusion Criteria:
- Currently taking drugs affecting vitamin D metabolism
- History of symptomatic ventricular dysrhythmias, congestive heart failure, angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, coronary angioplasty, or coronary artery bypass grafting
- Active malignancy
- Clinically significant liver disease
- Active infections
Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01653379
|United States, Arizona
|Tucson, Arizona, United States
|United States, California
|Tustin, California, United States
|United States, Colorado
|Denver, Colorado, United States
|United States, Missouri
|Saint Louis, Missouri, United States
|United States, Texas
|Greenville, Texas, United States
|United States, Wisconsin
|Madison, Wisconsin, United States
|Study Chair:
|Ravi Thadhani, MD
|Massachusetts General Hospital
Additional Information:
|Responsible Party:
|Deltanoid Pharmaceuticals
|ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
|NCT01653379 History of Changes
|Other Study ID Numbers:
|Study First Received:
|July 25, 2012
|Last Updated:
|August 14, 2017
Additional relevant MeSH terms:
Neoplasm Metastasis
Hyperparathyroidism, Secondary
Neoplastic Processes
Pathologic Processes
Parathyroid Diseases
Endocrine System Diseases
Vitamin D
Growth Substances
Physiological Effects of Drugs
Bone Density Conservation Agents
ClinicalTrials.gov processed this record on September 25, 2017


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D-backs get back on track behind Corbin
Lefty moves to 4-0 behind six-run second in San Diego
SAN DIEGO -- The D-backs needed one like this.
It wasn't just that they had lost four straight, but with seemingly every game coming down to the wire, they needed a no-doubter.
That's exactly what they got Saturday night as they parlayed a six-run second inning into an 8-1 win over the Padres at Petco Park.
Of Arizona's 29 previous games, 21 were decided by two runs or fewer, making for a lot of high-stress innings and a weary bullpen.
"Getting up on a team good and playing with a good lead was a nice change of pace for us," said outfielder A.J. Pollock, who went 2-for-4 with a homer and three RBIs, reaching base four times from the leadoff spot. "Kind of get everybody relaxed. We enjoyed it. Winning close games is good, but sometimes you need to just relax, everyone breathe and just get the win."
This one went the D-backs way early on when they sent 10 men to the plate and scored six runs on five hits in the second inning against Clayton Richard.
"Well, that was ugly," Richard said. "They took advantage of balls that were up or out over the plate and strung together a whole bunch of hits. They really took advantage of that inning."
Richard (0-4) had been a Snake charmer prior to that, putting together a 6-0 record in eight career starts against Arizona.
"Richard was a little different. He was leaving some balls up and out over the plate and we were patient and got some walks," D-backs manager Kirk Gibson said. "Then when he threw the ball over the plate, we had some good swings."
Josh Wilson, Cliff Pennington and Paul Goldschmidt each had an RBI during the second inning, while Pollock plated a pair with a ground-rule double to right-center.
It was a continuation of the struggles Richard has had to endure of late. The left-hander has now given up 16 earned runs over his last three starts.
Meanwhile, D-backs southpaw Patrick Corbin continued his outstanding start to the season.
Corbin (4-0) allowed one run -- a seventh-inning homer by Chris Denorfia -- over seven innings to lower his ERA to 1.80.
"His sinker was good, his slider, everything," catcher Wil Nieves said. "He was just getting ahead of the hitters. He was able to throw anything in any count, so it was fun catching him tonight. He was just on. His slider was real sharp."
In all six of his starts this year, Corbin has worked six or more innings and allowed two runs or fewer, tying him with Dan Haren for the longest such streak to start a season in franchise history.
"I just felt like I could go out there and throw anything I wanted," Corbin said. "When you have that lead, you have in the back of your head that you can go after these guys a little more. I just wanted to keep my pitch count low and make sure I got deep in the game to help the bullpen out."
Corbin beat out Tyler Skaggs and Randall Delgado this spring for a spot in the rotation, and he has not looked back, pitching more like the team's ace than its No. 5 starter.
"I just want to keep this up," Corbin said. "I know I've got a lot of starts left, and that's one thing I don't want to fatigue or anything like that. So I just want to keep doing what I've been doing and prepare for my next start."
Things got a little dicey in the eighth when the Padres loaded the bases with one out against reliever Tony Sipp.
Gibson went to former Padres right-hander Heath Bell, and he got Jedd Gyorko to ground into an inning-ending double play.
"He did a great job," Nieves said of Bell. "He got the guy 3-2 and threw a nice fastball down and a way, and the guy hit it for a double play. It was a huge double play for us."
Bell saved 134 games for the Padres from 2007-11 before departing to Miami via free agency in 2012. Apparently the fans in San Diego were unhappy with that decision, as they booed him when he came into the game.
"Bases loaded, I knew we were up big, so really for me it was like nobody was on -- just get the batter," said Bell, who also fanned two in a perfect ninth. "Everything was focused on getting the batter out. It was really nice to get that ground-ball double play."
Not to mention a win with some breathing room.
Steve Gilbert is a reporter for MLB.com. Read his blog, Inside the D-backs, and follow him on Twitter @SteveGilbertMLB. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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Dozens of children in Essex have been kept safe from sex offenders since the murder of Sarah Payne.
The eight-year-old was killed by a known sex offender in 2000.
Following her death a successful campaign was launched to give people controlled access to the sex offenders' register to try and avoid paedophiles having access to children.
It is called Sarah's Law - or the child sex offender disclosure scheme.
In the past three years 181 applications have been made to Essex Police to ask whether someone who has contact with a child is a sex offender.
In total, 31 disclosures have been made.
Det Chief Insp Paul Johnson said: "The idea is people come to us if they think there is a danger.
"We can't see everything and can't always see what sex offenders are doing, although we do monitor them closely.
"If there is a risk we can disclose it."
About one in six requests uncovers a risk.


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THE ex-boyfriend of model Kelly Brook crashed a van full of dead badgers into a bus shelter in Gloucester during the controversial cull, a court heard this morning.
Former Royal Marine David McIntosh, 28, a TV personality and 'hired security operative', was hired to transport the dead animals but crashed into a bus stop.
McIntosh, from Altrincham, did not appear at Stroud Magistrates' Court to face charges of driving without due care and attention and driving without a licence but pleaded guilty to both offences by post.
In his letter, which was read out in court, the former Gladiator star said he was distracted when a radio fell from the VW Transporter van he was driving in Worcester Street around 12.50am on Sunday, September 29.
"I was carrying badger carcasses to the furnace," the letter read.
"The radio was always kept on the vehicle dashboard so we could hear updates from the police about protesters.
"It slipped off the dashboard and my only option was to take my eyes off the road and reach for it.
"I tried to brake but I was too late."
However, his passenger John Parker, who was injured in the incident, told police officers that he believed McIntosh had fallen asleep at the wheel.
In a statement read out in court Mr Parker said: "We were travelling from Tewkesbury to Maisemore.
"I was checking my phone and looked up after feeling the vehicle change direction.
"I saw the bus stop in front of me and shouted.
"I can't say if he was asleep or not, but when I looked at David both of his hands were on the wheel, but his head was on his chest. I believe his eyes were shut."
The court heard that McIntosh, of Kentmere Road, in Timperley, Altrincham, was a driver for the Royal Marines and had served in Afghanistan.
The address given in court for McIntosh matches the business of his company, Next Generation Fitness Ltd.
In his letter he said he contacted DVLA after the incident and was told that his licence was revoked in 2005 for going through a red light.
"I have had numerous hire cars and have been stopped by police for random checks and not once was it flagged up," he said in his letter.
He also said he was unemployed - which a judge said she had taken into account when deciding the size of the fine.
District Judge Joti Bopa Rai said: "This is a case of driving without due care and attention and driving with a revoked licence.
"I have heard that this was part of the badger cull operation.
"I have to exclude anything to do with the badger cull. I am looking at the driving of an individual."
McIntosh was fined £91 and was ordered to pay £30 costs with a £20 victim surcharge and his licence was endorsed with six penalty points.
Anti badger cull campaigners mounted a demonstration outside the court with placards and sat in the public gallery during the hearing.
After the hearing they called for clarity on the contact between cull operators and the police during the cull.
Gloucestershire Police released this statement today: "We are aware that David McIntosh today pleaded guilty to driving without due care and attention and driving other than in accordance with a licence, following a road traffic collision in September last year. We are also aware of his reasons for that crash.
"We would like to make it perfectly clear that at no point during the pilot badger cull did police communicate the location of protesters to any contractors.
"Throughout Operation Themis, the policing response to the pilot badger cull, we have maintained our operational independence and ensured the safety of the public.
"We are now investigating the comments made by Mr McIntosh and determining if any further action is appropriate."


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World No. 1 Serena Williams insists she can only get better despite cruising to the Rogers Cup title on Sunday.
Williams lost just 22 games on her way to the WTA Premier title, which was secured with a 6-2, 6-0 thrashing of Romanian Sorana Cirstea in the final in Toronto. See match highlights
Williams will go into the U.S. Open, which starts on Aug. 26, as a hot favorite, but said there was plenty of improvement left in her game.
"I played well today and did a lot of things good but also think that there is more for improvement," she said.
"I think it is exciting when I know there is room for improvement.
"I am 31 and I still have room for improvement and for me that is a good sign."
Williams paid tribute to Cirstea, who defeated Li Na, Petra Kvitova, Jelena Jankovic and Caroline Wozniacki on her way to the final.
The 16-time grand slam singles champion said the 23-year-old would win several titles throughout her career.
"Sorana has been playing really well. I have been watching her matches and she was a giant-killer," Williams said.
"I knew I had to be on my game and play well, I just wanted to stay positive because I thought she played really well today.
"She has such a bright future. She is only 23 and she has so many more championship finals to be in and she is going to win a few definitely.
"She has a great killer spirit and she never gives up so she has much to be proud of."
Williams' victory took her past Monica Seles and into outright fifth for most WTA Tour titles won with 54.
"That is really awesome. I had no idea. It definitely means a lot for me passing Monica," Williams said.
"I think my career is longer than hers and she did so much at a younger age but she was an idol and I loved her growing up and to this day she is the reason I do so much of what I do on the court so it is pretty awesome."


text:
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The 5th annual FRED (Fathers Reading Every Day) program takes place throughout the month of June in Bullitt County.
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Colts' Doss has suspension reduced
By Mike Chappell
The NFL has reduced by one game the suspension of Indianapolis Colts safety Mike Doss, providing he complies with undisclosed conditions of the reduction. The announcement was made today.
Doss was suspended without pay for the first two games of the regular season on June 15 for violating the leagues personal conduct policy. With the reduction, hes eligible to join the Colts active roster next Monday.
Doss, the Colts second-round pick in 2003, missed all five preseason games while dealing with a groin injury.


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SAN ANTONIO - Two specially trained dogs are now on the job at the Audie Murphy Veterans Hospital's Polytrauma Center, helping wounded warriors recover from their painful physical and emotional injuries.
Many of the patients have suffered catastrophic injury such as amputations, and nearly all are also hurting from psychological pain as well.
The dogs, Colonel and Kelsey, are trained as medical service dogs, but doctors say their skills go far beyond anything they can measure.
Patients like Jeremy Young, who was shot 12 times, has little use of one hand and wrist.
But it is the post-traumatic stress from the shooting that he finds the most difficult. He says since being allowed to lie next to a dog and even take the dog for walks, his pain has decreased.
"I feel safe with the dog with me. I feel really safe," he said.
Other patients who have suffered amputations find comfort in Colonel, who also lost a leg in a traffic accident.
His handler says the dog relates to the men in a silent way that few can see.
One veteran says his quiet calm was crucial in the first months of treatment at the hospital when he was wake up screaming from post-traumatic nightmares.
Others, like Jordan Cisco, who lost both legs and thumb in an improvised explosive device, says the dog breaks the ice regarding his new reality and creates a new normal.
"When I met Kelsey, it was just amazing. She just came right up to me and just started licking my face. You know, it might have been something good that I ate for lunch or something, but she doesn't care that I don't have any legs," said Cisco.
Polytrauma doctors say the proof is visible on the worst therapy days, when the warrior is at an impasse.
"There is probably not a pill on the planet or a mental health provider in the world that can get them through that moment, but I can tell you that this girl has come up during those times and has been able to turn the situation around in a very short period of time, " said Dr. Elizabeth Johnson.
Copyright 2012 by Click2Houston.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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Leg tightness prompts rest for Pagan
WASHINGTON -- Giants center fielder Angel Pagan was out of Sunday's starting lineup against the Washington Nationals with what manager Bruce Bochy described as leg tightness.
Bochy said he expects Pagan to rejoin the lineup Monday, indicating the injury is not serious. Pagan was available to come off the bench Sunday, Bochy added.
Pagan's batting .277 (18-for-65) since returning from the disabled list Aug. 7 after missing 44 games with back tightness. That includes a .333 effort (8-for-24) in the current road trip's first five games.
Chris Haft is a reporter for MLB.com. Read his blog, Haft-Baked Ideas, and follow him on Twitter at @sfgiantsbeat. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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COLAGE, an organization for people with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer parents, has just launched its new website, and its chock-full of information, entertainment and resources.
There's an interactive timeline on LGBTQ families; there's a blog; there's a calendar; there's a video story-wall and more. But perhaps the element with the most impact is the short film, "Family Time," produced and directed by Jen Gilomen, and featuring the pioneering young men and women who founded COLAGE (back then it was called Just For Us) 20 years ago and who have helped it grow.
Every parent wants the best for their children. Every parent worries about doing something wrong. But when you are L or G or B or T and you are constantly bombarded by negative messages from mainstream society, no matter how confident and proud you are, you sometimes worry that who you are may be hurting your son or daughter.
So watching this film, seeing these proud, strong young people, was a very affirming for me as a lesbian parent. And I can guarantee that everyone will find at least one moment that makes you want to stand up and cheer. For me, the main highlight came about one-third of the way in — between the 4- and 5-minute marks — when the film is showing footage from a Canadian talk show from the early 1990s. In that clip, the young man and young woman who founded Just For Us/COLAGE have been blindsided by the talk show host who has brought on some right-winger to talk about how horrible it is for LGBTs to be raising children, even though the host had promised that wouldn't happen. But then the young woman, who had a gay father, refuses to take the right-wing crap laying down, telling everyone in no uncertain terms that it isn't the gay parent that causes problems, it's the anti-gay assholes who harass and discriminate and intimidate and bully.
I know that at 15 minutes this is a little longer than the clips we usually post on Instant Tea. But it's worth it.


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If you're into Civics, you'll love today's column. I'll explain why your General Assembly is in recess right now at a time we call the "Veto Period" and close out the last of this session's Saturday Coffees.
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If anything, Maxim would be the one who received bonus PCS from the judges for having a home crowd advantage. His PCS scores for the SP in Croatia ranged from 5.71 to 6.29, and in Germany ranged from 5.96 to 6.29. Here, it was from 6.46-6.79. On the other hand, Joshua's PCS scores for the SP in Lake Placid were from 6.21-6.89 and Slovenia from 6.54-6.93. Here, it was from 6.71-6.93, hardly any change at all.
While I disagree with the level 4 on the Farris' step sequence, I agree with all the other level calls in the protocols for both Farris and Maxim. If Maxim had a proper edge on the flip, better edges on his footwork sequence, or held his difficult spin positions longer, I can see Maxim edging out Farris by a small gap.


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There's an old joke that if all the economists in the world were laid end to end, they would not reach a conclusion. Getting economists to agree on anything seems like an exercise in futility, but I think we can be sure of one thing: untangling the causes and assessing the results of the financial crisis could take years.
But what does that crisis mean for us, and what do we do while the experts are figuring it out? Wait on the world to change? In the words of songwriter John Mayer, "It's hard to beat the system/When we're standing at a distance." We need to make decisions and move forward, because we'll never have all the information. Uncertainty makes people sit on their hands. And if they become complacent, or worse -- frozen in fear -- the outcome can be crippling.
Some economists believe the private sector would be poised for strong growth if it were left to its own devices. This seems to be exactly what is happening in both the vending and amusement industry. For an interesting take on this, I encourage you to read Marcus Webb's editorial "When you're On Your Own" on page 34 of this issue. Marcus reminds us how our industry has always been on its own throughout its history, and the best approach is to be resourceful, band together and to keep an eye on government so you'll know when the government starts keeping an eye on you. Both the vending and amusement industry associations have done an excellent job; we must continue to work with our trade groups to elect people who do not regard our business either as the enemy nor as a goose that lays golden eggs.
Notwithstanding our industry's many hurdles, we do have good reason to be hopeful in 2013. According to the Vending Times Census of the Industry (see December 2012), the vending business rose from $42.2 billion in 2010 to $43 billion in 2011. Both vending and office coffee service regained ground in response to market challenges, and the workplace services business has demonstrated its ability to keep growing. In the last year, advances in payment systems, telemetry and management software showed practical value in enabling the sale of higher-priced merchandise through vending machines, which contributed to this modest recovery.
Amusement operators showed signs of rebounding, too. They always have recognized that they are in the entertainment business, so have been adapting to the need for new tools to stay relevant to current and future consumer tastes. In doing so, they have had considerable success in slowing an overall decline that began in 2006. And, much like their merchandise vending counterparts, they have responded to economic contraction by dropping marginal accounts, fine-tuning equipment offerings, streamlining route operations and adding value to consumers' new mobile capabilities for interactivity. In the last year, jukebox operators have had access to improved tools for meeting location demands and competing with personal entertainment devices.
In the bulk vending segment, while the number of machines on location declined, ongoing price improvements helped end, and reverse, a period of revenue decline. Total dollar sales through bulk and flat vending machines increased 1.2% in 2011. Patrons also seem increasingly willing to insert multiple coins to make a purchase.
In this month's column "Debunking 'The New Normal,'" Hank Schlesinger discusses the resiliency of these operators. He points out that business, like fashion, technology and music, is in a constant state of transition, and that bulk vending suppliers have shown no signs of falling behind the current trends. He reiterates something we all know very well: vending operators are largely entrepreneurs and entrepreneurs are natural optimists.
So, while others may wait on the world to change, our industry is exhibiting the strength needed to overcome the obstacles that confront it. I think there's every reason to believe that this will continue. But it can't endure in a climate of opinion that's hostile to profitable creative endeavor. We should keep in mind the alarm that 1971 National Automatic Merchandising Association chairman Patrick L. O'Malley, Canteen Corp., used to raise: "The engine of free enterprise is a mighty one -- but there's dynamite on the track!" (This is one of my favorite quotes.) It is more important now than it ever has been for us to talk up the industry, work together to build understanding of it and bolster its image, and renew American confidence in the value of entrepreneurial initiative and its reward.
If you haven't already, people, get ready and jump on that train. The challenge is ongoing and there is every reason to believe that it will continue.
People get ready
There's a train a-coming
You don't need no baggage
You just get on board.
--Curtis Mayfield
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Amyvid is a beta-amyloid imaging agent for use in adults with thinking or memory problems who are being assessed for Alzheimer's Disease or other causes of these symptoms. Amyvid is used by doctors in combination with other tests. A positive Amyvid scan does not diagnose Alzheimer's Disease or other thinking or memory disorders. Amyvid is not approved to predict the development of dementia or other brain conditions in the future or for monitoring the effectiveness of treatments. Amyvid for intravenous use is supplied in 10 mL, 30 mL, or 50 mL multidose vials containing 500-1900 MBq/mL Florbetapir F 18.2
"Coverage with Evidence Development as proposed by CMS does not provide patients appropriate access to these amyloid imaging brain scans. Instead, it creates additional complexity for the broader community in determining the best path forward for patients," said Eric Dozier, senior director, Alzheimer's Business Division, Eli Lilly and Company. "As we continue to review the final decision memo, we will be evaluating all available options to ensure patients and physicians can gain access to this innovative diagnostic tool as soon as possible."
About Alzheimer's DiseaseAlzheimer's Disease, a fatal illness, is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60 to 80 percent of dementia cases.3 It continues to be one of the most significant health challenges facing the United States, with an estimated 5.2 million Americans already suffering from the disease5.0 million of whom are aged 65 and over.3 Alzheimer's Disease is one of many possible causes of cognitive impairment, which can make diagnosis challenging.3,4 In fact, it is estimated that up to one in five patients clinically diagnosed with probable Alzheimer's Disease during life do not exhibit Alzheimer's Disease pathology upon autopsy.5,6 If it is determined that Alzheimer's Disease is not the cause of a patient's cognitive impairment, their doctor can avoid or discontinue unnecessary or potentially harmful treatments and investigate other possible causes.7,8,9
About Amyvid2Amyvid is a radioactive diagnostic agent that is injected into the bloodstream, where it crosses the blood-brain barrier and selectively binds to amyloid plaques. The fluorine 18 (F 18) isotope produces a positron signal, which is detected by a PET scanner. Doctors who read Amyvid PET scans should complete a comprehensive training program available through live events or online at AmyvidTraining.com.
For more information about Amyvid, please see Prescribing Information at http://pi.lilly.com/us/amyvid-uspi.pdf.
INDICATIONS AND USAGE2:Amyvid is approved for use in adults with thinking or memory problems who are being assessed for Alzheimer's Disease (AD) or other causes of these symptoms. Amyvid is used by doctors in combination with other tests.
Amyvid is used with a positron emission tomography (PET) scanner to show whether high levels of plaques, which are a buildup of a protein called beta-amyloid, are in the brain.
A negative Amyvid scan means that there are few to no plaques in the brain and makes it unlikely that AD is the cause of symptoms at the time of the scan.
A positive Amyvid scan means that the amount of plaque in the brain is similar to the amount seen in people with AD. This amount of plaque may also be seen in people with other conditions of the brain that cause thinking or memory problems, as well as in older people with normal thinking and memory.
A positive Amyvid scan does not diagnose AD or other thinking or memory disorders. Amyvid is not approved to predict the development of dementia or other brain conditions in the future or for monitoring the effectiveness of treatments.
What is the most important information I should know about Amyvid?
What are the most common side effects of Amyvid?
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/safety/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
What should I tell my doctor before taking Amyvid?
Amyvid is available by prescription only.
See Prescribing Information.
About Eli Lilly and CompanyLilly, a leading innovation-driven corporation, is developing a growing portfolio of pharmaceutical products by applying the latest research from its own worldwide laboratories and from collaborations with eminent scientific organizations. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Ind., Lilly provides answersthrough medicines and informationfor some of the world's most urgent medical needs. Additional information about Lilly is available at www.lilly.com.
This press release contains certain forward-looking statements about Amyvid (Florbetapir F 18 Injection), a radioactive diagnostic agent indicated for brain imaging of beta-amyloid plaques in patients with cognitive impairment who are being evaluated for Alzheimer's Disease and other causes of cognitive decline. This release reflects Lilly's current beliefs; however, as with any pharmaceutical product, there are substantial risks and uncertainties in the process of development and commercialization. There is no guarantee that future study results and patient experience will be consistent with study findings to date or that Amyvid will prove to be commercially successful. For further discussion of these and other risks and uncertainties, see Lilly's filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. Lilly undertakes no duty to update forward-looking statements.
©Lilly USA, LLC 2013. All rights reserved. AM87506 09/2013Amyvid is a trademark of Eli Lilly and Company.
1 National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease: 2013 Update. US Department of Health and Human Services Web site. http://aspe.hhs.gov/daltcp/napa/NatlPlan2013.shtml. Updated June 14, 2013. Accessed September 26, 2013.2 Amyvid [package insert]. Indianapolis, IN: Lilly USA, LLC; 2012.3 Alzheimer's Association. 2013 Alzheimer's disease facts and figures. Alzheimers Dement. 2013;9(2):208245.4 Balasa M, Gelpi E, Antonell A, et al; for the Neurological Tissue Bank/University of Barcelona/Hospital Clínic NTB/UB/HC Collaborative Group. Clinical features and APOE genotype of pathologically proven early-onset Alzheimer disease. Neurology. 2011;76(20):17201725.5 Lim A, Tsuang D, Kukull W, et al. Clinico-neuropathological correlation of Alzheimer's disease in a community-based case series. J Am Geriatr Soc. 1999;47(5):564569.6 Petrovitch H, White LR, Ross GW, et al. Accuracy of clinical criteria for AD in the Honolulu-Asia Aging Study, a population-based study. Neurology. 2001;57(2):226234.7 Alzheimer's Association. 2011 Alzheimer's disease facts and figures. Alzheimers Dement. 2011;7(2):208244.8 Boise L, Neal MB, Kaye J. Dementia assessment in primary care: results from a study in three managed care systems. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 2004;59(6):621626.9 Mendez MF, Shapira JS, McMurtray A, et al. Preliminary findings: behavioral worsening on donepezil in patients with frontotemporal dementia. Am J Geriatr Psychiatry. 2007;15(1):8487.
Refer to: Celeste Stanley, 317-478-0263, email@example.com
(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20031219/LLYLOGO )
SOURCE Eli Lilly and Company


text: Walls + Forms Inc. offers a ready-to-assemble commercial grade counter. With no bolts or screws needed, even a novice can assemble these units; the only tool needed is a rubber mallet, which is provided with the counter. Thanks to its slot-fit design, each panel has tabs that fit snuggly into the base, deck and


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New Delhi: India will soon review the reasons for the delay in setting up the project by South Korean steel maker Posco in Orissa.
Trade minister Anand Sharma during his bilateral meeting with South Korean minister of knowledge economy Hong Suk-woo at the sidelines of the partnership summit jointly organized by commerce ministry and the Confederation of Indian Industry said that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has been personally monitoring the project.
"We have been concerned about delays in Posco. We will be conducting a review," said Sharma. "Even though there are other scopes for change, Posco will remain our key focus."


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Good. I'm looking forward to it.
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Good. I'm looking forward to it.
Finally saw the Hobbit tonight.
I know I'm not supposed to like it as much as the LOTR trilogy, but I do.
Peter Jackson may not be able to direct anything outside of this but in the world of Tolkien he is a God.
I guess I'm in the tiny minority, but I was unimpressed with "Lincoln". I like U.S. and Presidential history, so I was expecting to be entertained. But I wasn't. Spielberg had been wanting to do a movie on Lincoln for years and I was expecting something greater. Why did they devote the entire film to the arm-twisting involved in getting a piece of legislation through when they could have made a more broad film that expanded into other important events of his Presidency? With a 2:45 length film, they could have easily expanded into many other issues. There were barely any scenes devoted to the fascinating Civil War strategy. They should have incorporated the war more into the film. There could have been some incredibly dramatic scenes about the the end of the war and the emotion Lincoln must have felt as it ended. They also should have brought in Gettysburg and the Emancipation Proclamation. Also should have re-created the assassination instead of showing his son find out about it in a theater. I just don't get why you'd do a three hour film on Lincoln and devote it entirely to a tiny span of a monumental Presidency that expanded four years. There was so much you could do with this film that would have been more entertaining than three hours of arm-twisting on legislation.
The dialogue was also way too verbose. I felt like I was watching a play for much of the film instead of a movie that is attempting to portray realistic conversation. I don't think people in 1865 put so much dressing on their language.
The acting was great and the period detail was nice. But I feel like an opportunity was squandered and that the movie would have been way better if it talked about multiple historic events over his Presidency instead of devoting a 3 hour movie to arm twisting over one piece of legislation. I felt like the movie took place in two rooms.
I'm obviously in the minority though. Everyone else seems to like it.
Last edited by Sollozzo; 12-23-2012 at 04:17 AM.
The Hobbit
Really, really good. Just have to get past the slow start.
First time in a long time, I've been happy with the team that was constructed, and now they struggle. I blame the coach.
With the assassination, I thought it was the right move. I (and I think like everyone else) learned about Lincoln every year in grade school in social studies. The scene of Lincoln's assassination has just been played over and over in my head. That's a hard thing to make your own as a filmmaker.
Critics mostly. Honestly though, I think critics are just trying to be en vogue and contrarians by disliking it. I think many planned on disliking it before they saw it. I liked. Not sure if as much as LOTR. I will have to see it in its entirety to compare. Honestly at no point did I think it was slow. In fact I thought if it had a downside was that it was filled with non-stop fight scenes it seemed. With certain aspects of the action going over the top. But LOTR had over the top action scenes as well.
House Name: Pacers
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House Words: "We Kneel To No King"
I wrote my thoughts immediately after seeing it. After sleeping on it, I should clarify that I don't think it's a "bad" movie per se because its certainly better than a lot of what's produced. I'm just a little perplexed at all of the 4 star reviews and 91% ratings on Rotten Tomatoes, and I'm someone who loves history and was looking forward to this movie. For me, it just wasn't good enough to blow me a way.
The 13th Amendment was important and it's good for the audience to be educated on it. But I feel that the story of how the 13th Amendment was passed could have been crunched into about 25 minutes and the rest of the film could have been used to talk about other important events in his Presidency since so much was going on. I would have liked to see scenes devoted to the intense Civil War strategy and emotions that he must have been feeling during that. They also could have re-created Gettysburg and the Emancipation Proclamation. Lincoln's Presidency was filled with so many different events that I don't think you can focus an entire feature film on just one of them. That doesn't do the other events justice. I would have also liked to have seen more recreated populated streets of 1865 Washington D.C. I feel like the movie was mostly contained to like three rooms. And I felt that "tone" felt mostly the same throughout the entire movie.
The assassination scene wasn't really that big of an issue for me and I understand why they "played it safe" so to speak. It's certainly been portrayed many many times. That being said, I would still like to see an authentic re-creation of it in a feature film. Pearl Harbor and Titanic were also portrayed many times before people decided to re-create a highly authentic version of them in a feature film. I think Spielberg could have pulled it off well with taste. I feel that an opportunity was squandered with it.
I did think the acting was excellent though. It's funny how Tommy Lee Jones has the same sarcastic vibe to him in every movie. I felt like I was watching Deputy Gerrard in "The Fugitive".
Last edited by Sollozzo; 12-23-2012 at 06:25 PM.
Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy
Really really slow. But I enjoyed it. Need to pay attention or you'll get lost. If you like espionage movies, you'll like this.
Resident Evil
I decided to do an RE marathon, starting at the beginning since it's been a long time since I've seen any of these.
The first one is pretty much how I remember it; an average film that deviated too much in tone from the game. It should be scarier and less action-oriented with more familiar characters from the games.
This is 40
Edit Signature
First time in a long time, I've been happy with the team that was constructed, and now they struggle. I blame the coach.
Am I wrong for thinking that "Lincoln" is getting tremendous reviews in part because people are predisposed to thinking that a film done by one of the most famous directors ever about one of the most famous figures in our nation's history with a highly acclaimed actor playing him is automatically going to be great? I do think there are people out there who think it would be taboo to criticize a Speilberg movie with Daniel Day Lewis playing Abraham Lincoln. IE, how could any movie about an iconic American figure with so much star power be anything but fabulous?
Maybe I'm just searching for loony reasons to explain why I'm a tiny minority who didn't like the film......
Last edited by Sollozzo; 12-24-2012 at 04:13 PM.
I think it just didn't meet your expectations in general on top of devoting itself to something you didn't feel deserved nearly that much screen time.
aww man, Jack Klugman died
Got Ted and The Dark Knight Rises for Christmas
Watched them both with the family since they haven't seen them. We all laughed so hard watching Ted.
First time in a long time, I've been happy with the team that was constructed, and now they struggle. I blame the coach.
The Queen of Versailles - Definitely the best doc on the recession that's come out; makes the Matt Damon one look even more childish. It's almost too relevant to really delve into the closer subjects (the horny old ******* and the beachball-titted blond bimbo) more intimately. I felt their level of awareness rise, but not quite the character adjustment that others observed. It's the kind of smart, subtle work that reality TV producers wish they could pull off. Very strongly recommended.
Jiro Dreams of Sushi - It's kind of a story about a man working tirelessly to achieve perfection. But it's mostly sushi porn. Mostly recommended.
Killer Joe - A fun, ultraviolent, full-frontal ride that almost takes itself too seriously but ends up working because of strong performances, especially Mr. Alright, Alright, and a lean running time. Pretty recommended.
Paranorman - It looks really great, but since they obviously needed CGI to do some of it, it's tough to really marvel at it. At least all the way. Some of the visuals reminded me of Aranofsky's The Fountain. Mildly recommended.
I couldn't get over that ending scene in Killer Joe. I'll never look at a chicken leg the same way again.
I share your feelings, for the most part.
I do think that the things that made it not good would have been even worse if they had included scenes like Gettysburg and the Emancipation Proclamation. The movie was overly dramatic and hammy for my tastes (not sure Spielberg was the right director for this type of project) and he basically showed us the least hammy part--acting-wise--of the Lincoln Presidency. Imagine if he would shown us DDL during the Lincoln-Douglas debate. Dear lord, would that have been too much.
Also, the scenes with Seward were the best. If anything, I wish they would have made a 100% Team of Rivals-inspired book only about his cabinet. That would have been great. The scenes with his family were terrible. Dear God.
Jack Reacher.
wow that was really bad. I had low expectations and this did not meet them. One of those movies where you think they are trying to be funny and yet it wasn't. The writing was beyond bad
Last edited by Unclebuck; 12-27-2012 at 06:34 PM.
I agree with you about Seward. I thought the portrayal of him was the strongest and most authentic in the film. Seems like all of the accolades have been given to Day-Lewis, Fields, and Jones, but I thought Strathairn turned in the best performance as Seward.
I feel like Elaine in "Seinfeld" when she doesn't like "The English Patient". It seems like everyone I run into thinks this movie is awesome, aside from my two friends who I saw it with and also didn't like it.
Last edited by Sollozzo; 12-27-2012 at 05:52 PM.


text:
Get an overview of this hotelHawthorne, CA hotel with pool, near airport and beach
Popular property highlights
A stay at Ayres Hotel Manhattan Beach LAX places you in the heart of Hawthorne, convenient to Polliwog Park and Toyota Sports Center.
This 4-star hotel is within close proximity of South Bay Galleria and Manhattan Beach Pier.
Make yourself at home in one of the 173 air-conditioned rooms featuring kitchenettes with refrigerators and microwaves. Your pillowtop bed comes with down comforters. Wired and wireless Internet access is complimentary, while 32-inch flat-screen televisions with cable programming provide entertainment. Conveniences include phones, as well as complimentary newspapers and separate sitting areas.
Don't miss out on the many recreational opportunities, including an outdoor pool, a spa tub, and a fitness center. This hotel also features complimentary wireless Internet access, shopping on site, and wedding services.
Grab a bite to eat at the hotel's restaurant, which features a bar, or stay in and take advantage of room service (during limited hours). Mingle with other guests at a complimentary reception, held on select days. Quench your thirst with your favorite drink at a bar/lounge. Full breakfasts are available daily for a fee.
Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and express check-out. Planning an event in Hawthorne? This hotel has 3000 square feet (279 square meters) of space consisting of a conference center and meeting rooms. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.Information missing or incorrect? Tell us!Opens in a new window
Ayres Hotel Manhattan Beach LAX
Hotel Amenities
Hotel Amenities
Guests can start the day with a full breakfast, including hot selections (surcharge). The hotel offers a heated outdoor pool and a fitness center; ocean beaches are within a short drive.
The Matisse Restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and features courtyard dining. Menu highlights (subject to change) include Seared Prime Steak, Fresh Diver Scallops with Lobster Essence, and, for dessert, Pistachio Key Lime Pie and Valrhona Chocolate Soufflé. Room service is available.
Guest laundry facilities are on site. Parking is available for an additional fee. This hotel is non-smoking.
- Outdoor pool
- Free newspapers in lobby
- Free use of nearby fitness center
- Fitness facilities
- Restaurant
- Coffee shop or café
- Bar/lounge
- Conference space
- Safe-deposit box at front desk
- 24-hour front desk
- Total number of rooms - 173
- Express check-out
- Number of floors - 3
- ATM/banking
- Shopping on site
- Laundry facilities
- Dry cleaning/laundry service
- Fireplace in lobby
- Library
- Elevator/lift
- Breakfast available (surcharge)
- Wedding services
- Meeting rooms 3
- Luggage storage
- Long-term parking (surcharge)
- Conference space size (meters) - 279
- Self parking (surcharge)
- Computer station
- Tours/ticket assistance
- Free WiFi
- Free wired Internet
- Designated smoking areas (fines apply)
- Designated smoking areas
- Multilingual staff
- Porter/bellhop
- Conference center
- Year Built 2005
- 24-hour business center
- Conference space size (feet) - 3000
- Number of meeting rooms - 3
- Free reception
- Number of buildings/towers - 1
- Spa tub
Available in all rooms: Free WiFi , Free wired Internet
Available in some public areas: Free WiFi , Free wired Internet
Long-term parking (surcharge), Self parking (surcharge)
Room Amenities
- Premium TV channels
- Premium bedding
- Hypo-allergenic bedding available
- Room service (limited hours)
- Separate sitting area
- Blackout drapes/curtains
- Air conditioning
- Free newspaper
- In-room climate control (air conditioning)
- Phone
- Refrigerator
- Coffee/tea maker
- Microwave
- Free toiletries
- Hair dryer
- Iron/ironing board
- Daily housekeeping
- Cable TV service
- Kitchenette
- Free WiFi
- Free wired Internet
- Private bathroom
- Shower/tub combination
- Pillowtop mattress
- Free cribs/infant beds
- iPod docking station
- Dial-up Internet access (surcharge)
- Flat-panel TV
- Down comforter
Where to Eat
Ayres Hotel Manhattan Beach has a restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast is available at a surcharge, and room service is available during breakfast, lunch, and dinner hours.
Nearby Things to Do
- Golfing nearby
- Kayaking nearby
- Bicycle rentals nearby
- Hiking/biking trails nearby
- Golf lessons available nearby
- Segway rental/tour nearby
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please note them at check-out when you book your room.
- Accessible bathroom
- Roll-in shower
- In-room accessibility
Hotel Policies
Check-in time starts at 3 PM
Check-out time is noon
Payment types
Children and extra beds
- Children are welcome.
- Kids stay free! Up to 3 children 12 years old and younger stay free when using existing bedding.
- Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
- Free cribs (infant beds)!
- Pets not allowed (service animals welcome)
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy.
- The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation.
Optional extras
- Breakfast fee: between USD 8 and USD 15 per person (approximately)
- Self parking fee: USD 10 per night (in/out privileges)
- Extended parking fee: USD 10 per night
Hotel Name
- Ayres Hotel LAX
- Ayres Hotel Manhattan Beach LAX
- Ayres Hotel Manhattan LAX
- Ayres Manhattan Beach LAX
- Ayres Manhattan LAX
- Ayres Hotel Hawthorne Manhattan Beach
- Ayres Hotel Manhattan Beach LAX Hawthorne
- Ayres Manhattan Beach LAX Hawthorne
We should mention
Up to 3 children 12 years old and younger stay free when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding. Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms.


text:
RIM Looks Poised to Rake it In
On Friday morning I discussed the relative good news from Nokia (NOK) and what that might mean for Research In Motion (RIMM). I suggested that Nokia's share climb Thursday should lead to some solid pin action for RIM. It did: The stock rose 14% Friday and another 10% Monday.
It's likely that, with Nokia's positive pre-earnings announcement, more people became aware of the low number of BB10 smartphones RIM would have to sell in order to beat the Street's low expectations. After all, Nokia "only" sold 4.4 million Lumias in the last quarter. Yet, judging by the market's reaction, you would think it came close to a more Apple (AAPL)-like 30 million....405 more words left in this article. To read them, just click below and try Real Money FREE for 14 days.
There's no substitute for a trading floor to get great ideas, so Jim Cramer created a better one at Real Money and blogs there exclusively. We then added legendary hedge fund manager, Doug Kass, with his exclusive Daily Diary and best investing ideas. Staffed with more than 4 dozen investing pros, money managers, journalists and analysts, Real Money Pro gives you a flood of opinions, analysis and actionable trading advice found nowhere else, and allows you to interact directly with each expert.
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One Great Certainty
Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future. -- John F. Kennedy
While the big move to start the new year caused celebration among investors, it also produced consternation among traders who were caught by surprise. The uncertainty of the fiscal cliff and the fact that it was the end of the year had pushed many market players into cash, which produced additional chasing when the market exploded higher yesterday. Nothing is worse than starting the year with substantial underperformance....544 more words left in this article. To read them, just click below and try Real Money FREE for 14 days.
There's no substitute for a trading floor to get great ideas, so Jim Cramer created a better one at Real Money and blogs there exclusively. We then added legendary hedge fund manager, Doug Kass, with his exclusive Daily Diary and best investing ideas. Staffed with more than 4 dozen investing pros, money managers, journalists and analysts, Real Money Pro gives you a flood of opinions, analysis and actionable trading advice found nowhere else, and allows you to interact directly with each expert.
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Topic: My Brother
Hi I am trying to get any information people may have on alternative treatments for this disease. My brother is Stage 4 and not doing really well at all this has all happened so fast. He has had surgery and has once againstarted to become jaundiced althought his stint is clear?? We are desperate and willing to do anything that we can do...I should meation that he is only 36. Being in Canada and in particular Saskatchewan we have little to hope for except the typical treatments that we feel we want to save until we have to...???? Any info would be great!!