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Allergy Tests of Uncertain Efficacy
DESCRIPTIONAllergy refers to an acquired potential for developing adverse reactions that are mediated by the immune system (via IgE antibodies). Allergic disease represents the clinical manifestations of these adverse immune responses. An allergen is any substance that can cause an allergic reaction. Allergens are often common, usually harmless substances such as pollens, mold spores, animal danders, dust, foods, insect venoms, latex, and drugs.
The optimum management of the allergic patient should include a careful history and physical examination and may include confirming the cause of the allergic reaction by information from allergy tests.
Allergy tests considered clinically useful for allergy confirmation by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAI) and the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) in the diagnosis and management of the allergic patient are addressed in the Allergy Testing policy. Once an allergy-causing agent is identified, treatment is provided by avoidance, medication, or immunotherapy.
This policy addresses only allergy tests of uncertain efficacy and those used primarily in research settings.
Allergy Tests of Uncertain Efficacy
Antigen leukocyte cellular antibody (ALCAT) automated food test
The ALCAT automated food test measures whole blood leukocytes by a proprietary process that identifies allergens which cause an increase in leukocyte activity. An electronic counter measures the change in number and size of white blood cells which have been incubated with purified food or mold extracts. A histogram is produced based on cell count and cell size. Individually processed test samples are compared with a "Master Control" graph. Scores are generated by relating these effective volumetric changes in white blood cells to the control curve.
Applied Kinesiology (or muscle strength test)
Muscle strength in the extremities is measured before and after a person is exposed to an allergen. Strength in the opposing arm is measured as a person holds a container of allergen extract in the opposite hand or ingests an allergen. A decrease in strength indicates the presence of disease and various nutritional supplements may be recommended.
Cytotoxic food tests
This test involves the response of specially collected white blood cells to the presence of food extracts to which the patient is allergic. A technician observes the unstained cells for changes in shape and appearance of the leukocytes. Swelling, vacuolation, crenation, or other cytotoxic changes in cell morphology are taken as evidence of allergy to the food.
Electrodermal testing (also known as electro-acupuncture)
Electrodermal testing measures changes in skin resistance while a person is exposed to an allergen, either food or inhalant. This allergy-testing device uses a galvanometer to measure the electrical resistance of the skin. A drop in the resistance of the skin is believed to indicate the presence of allergy.
Hair analysis
Hair is analyzed for the presence (or lack) of various minerals and toxins. Findings are correlated to nutritional deficiencies or disease. Recommendations for diet and supplements are provided based on the analysis.
IgG/IgG4 antibody test and food specific IgG/IgG4 tests
There are 4 subclasses of immunoglobulin G. Selective deficiencies in one or more of the 4 IgG subclasses are seen in some patients with repeated infections. Measurements of IgG and specifically IgG4 antibodies have been used in research settings as diagnostic and prognostic tests to determine response to allergy treatments.
According to the AAAI, iridology attempts to relate the anatomical features in the iris to various systemic diseases.
Passive transfer of P-X (Prausnitz-Kustner) test
This technique involves prick, scratch, or intradermal transfer of serum from a sensitized individual into a nonallergic volunteer. The volunteer is then challenged with the allergen by skin testing. A wheal or a flare response indicates a positive reaction. This procedure is now considered obsolete and has been replaced by the Radioallergosorbent Test (RAST) test.
Provocative-neutralization tests for food (or food additive allergy test)
This procedure is performed by injecting (intradermal or subcutaneous), or placing under the tongue (sublingual), dilute extracts of the suspected food or inhalant allergen and observing the patient's response or reaction. A symptomatic response indicates an allergy to that food or inhalant, and the reaction can be neutralized by application of a similar extract of a lesser dilution.
Rebuck skin window test
This is a type of skin testing where the skin surface is stripped or broken to cause serious oozing. This area is then covered by a glass plate, coated with the allergen to be tested, and taped in place for 24 hours. At the end of that time the plate is removed, and the cells under the plate and the surrounding skin are checked for any changes. An eosinophilic exudate typical of an allergic reaction appears in the area of the stripped epidermis. The results are very difficult to interpret and are not practical for general use. The procedure is no longer in use.
Allergy Tests in the Research Setting
Conjunctival challenge test
With conjunctival testing, an allergenic extract is placed into the conjunctival sac of the eye followed by observation for redness, itchiness, tearing of the eye, and other similar symptoms. According to the AAAI, these tests are often used in research protocols that require an objective standard for evaluating clinical sensitivity to an allergen.
Leukocyte Histamine Release Test (LHRT)
In this testing, leukocytes from the serum of an allergic individual are observed for histamine release in the presence of an antigen. The commercial availability of simplified and automated methods of laboratory analysis have renewed interest in the clinical applications of LHRT in the evaluation of food, inhalant, and drug allergies. The AAAI guidelines for this test indicate it is primarily used in a research setting.
Nasal challenge test
This test provides precise measurements of changes in nasal airway resistance along with observations such as number of sneezes and measurement of inflammatory mediators in the nasal secretions after exposure to an allergen. The more commonly known "sniff test," uses a visual assessment of mucosal swelling and rhinorrhea after a small amount of dry pollen is inhaled.
POLICYThe following allergy tests are considered investigational as the scientific evidence does not permit conclusions regarding their effects on health outcomes:
1. Antigen leukocyte cellular antibody (ALCAT) automated food test
2. Applied kinesiology allergy test
3. Conjunctival challenge test (ophthalmic mucous membrane test)
4. Cytotoxic food tests
5. Electrodermal testing (also known as electro-acupuncture)
6. Hair analysis
7. IgG/IgG4 allergen specific antibody test and food tests
8. Iridology
9. Leukocyte histamine release test (LHRT)
10. Nasal challenge test
11. Passive transfer or P-X (Prausnitz-Küstner) test (now considered obsolete-and replaced by Radioallergosorbent tests)
12. Provocation-neutralization food or food additive allergy test
13. Rebuck skin window test (no longer in use)
POLICY EXCEPTIONSNone
POLICY GUIDELINESInvestigative service is defined as the use of any treatment procedure, facility, equipment, drug, device, or supply not yet recognized by certifying boards and/or approving or licensing agencies or published peer review criteria as standard, effective medical practice for the treatment of the condition being treated and as such therefore is not considered medically necessary.
The coverage guidelines outlined in the Medical Policy Manual should not be used in lieu of the Member's specific benefit plan language.
POLICY HISTORY11/17/2011: Approved by Medical Policy Advisory Committee.
04/24/2013: Policy reviewed; no changes.
07/02/2015: Code Reference section updated for ICD-10.
SOURCE(S)Regence Allergy Tests of Uncertain Efficacy Medical Policy
CODE REFERENCEThis may not be a comprehensive list of procedure codes applicable to this policy.
Investigational Codes


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WholeFoods Magazine SourceBook: The Natural Products Directory
For the third year in a row, I've been honored to assist in analyzing the data from WholeFoods Magazine's Retailer Survey, which starts on page 20, and this year is outstanding! We've had the largest response in 35 years of doing the survey, and the quality of stores is truly remarkable. With nearly one million square feet and $665 million in sales represented, the survey offers a comprehensive view of our dynamic industry, from the smallest supplements store to the largest fresh-foods supermarket.
What's Selling is our monthly review of what retailers nationwide say is selling well in their stores. This month, we've compiled all of the data from October until the end of the year for the final quarter as well as looked back at all 2012 data.
Promotions, new hires, retirements and more.
Growing up in the New York /New Jersey area, as well as the natural products industry, has taught me many things. First, we are tough survivors and will do what it takes to overcome. With that in mind, we were tested again with perhaps one of our biggest challenges last month when Super Storm Sandy hit our area. Many people lost their homes, cars and items of sentimental value. Relief workers are helping them, but it is not enough.
Resveratrol wine isn't just good for your heart—it helped inhibit prostate cancer androgens in a recent lab study. Prostate cancer, the most commonly diagnosed cancer, is cause for the second most cancer-related deaths of American men.
Santa Barbara, CA–Thanks to the generosity of numerous industry members, Vitamin Angels now has extra funds with which to do its good work distributing vitamins to those in need around the world.
Washington, D.C.—The Natural Products Association (NPA) and WholeFoods Magazine are working together to help Hurricane Sandy victims (specifically natural products retailers) get back on their feet with the NPA Retailer Relief.
Hoboken, NJ—A recent study published in Panminerva Medica indicates that Pycnogenol (distributed in the U.S. by Horphag Research, based here) may help control asthma symptoms. Pycnogenol is a natural plant extract that comes from the bark of French Maritime pine trees. The extract's combination of procyanidins, bioflavanoids and organic acids has been studied for years in promoting healthy inflammation, but now researchers from the University in Pescara, Italy believe it may have other benefits, too.
Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada—A horrible disaster struck a production plant owned by Neptune Technologies & Bioressources Inc. (maker of Neptune Krill Oil [NKO]) on the afternoon of November 8. An explosion and fire reduced the production facility to rubble, killing three workers. At least 18 others were injured, some with severe burns. An adjacent Neptune facility sustained limited damage.
Las Vegas, NV—Industry suppliers...
Silver Spring, MD—The U.S. Food...
all products


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Gundam Card Battler, the new iOS and Android social game from Namco Bandai Games due out this winter, has opened preregistration.
Gundam Card Battler is a true card gaming experience, featuring card art from Gundam War Nex-A.
Each turn, players draw cards from their deck, playing out battles similar to those in real TCGs. After launch, you'll be able to team up with friends to take down legendary aces in Raid Boss events, or test your deck against theirs in the Battle Arena.
■ Registration's open! Get a Gundam Ground Type perfect for terrestrial battles!
Everyone who preregisters will receive a Gundam Ground Type card.
Get a head start with the Gundam Ground type, which punches far above its weight on land using the Ground Adaption skill!
Just scan this code on your iOS or Android device!
▼ Register here!
You can also access registration from "Namco Bandai Social Game Info.", home to all your news about Namco Bandai social games.
|Gundam Card Battler
Free to download, cash shop for some items
Devices: iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, iPad 2, iPad (3rd-gen+), iPhone 5 (iOS 5.0.1+)
Android 2.3+* Some devices not supported
Availability: Digitally via App Store/Google Play
Service begins: Winter 2013
* Images from development version.
* Details valid as of posting. Details may change without notice.
* Apple, the Apple logo, iPad, and iPhone are trademarks of Apple Inc. registered in the United States and other countries.
App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.
* Google Play is a registered trademark of Google, Inc.
* All trademarks property of their respective owners.
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American Airlines Android app eases the tension of travel
If you're a frequent flyer with American Airlines, the airline's Android app by the same name is a must-have download. The app has a lot of different features designed to help make flying a little less stressful.
When you load the app's main menu, you'll see clickable tabs for you to book a flight, check your flight status, check in for flights, or even play Sudoku. If you hit your app's "Menu" button and then tap "more," you are brought to even more features.
Here, you can store your mobile boarding pass (you can look at your seat and gate information at a glance), display terminal maps, and enroll in and monitor your AAdvantage miles program. After you've registered, you can continue to monitor your rewards points through the app.
American Airlines' app description said it also has a feature that enables users to set a parking reminder by snapping a photo, but I was disappointed when the feature was nowhere to be found. (Readers, please, feel free to post comments if you were able to locate this.) This is a huge bummer to me, because it sounds like this feature has the potential to be one of the most useful tools available on the entire application.
What's kind of nice about American Airlines is that once you're logged in, you can stay logged in, which, of course, eliminates some frustration. Logging in to services/websites over and over again, especially during the span of a few minutes, is a huge pet peeve of mine.
American Airlines seems like an app that does all of your dirty work for you. Instead of panicking and checking your boarding pass every three minutes (like I do), you can relax.


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MFIs should recover loans respectfully: FM
Nov 27 2012 , New Delhi
"...Responsible financing by way of transparency, interest rate rationalisation, respectful recovery procedure must be followed by micro finance institutions," he said while listing the challenges faced by MFI industry. He was speaking at the Microfinance India Summit 2012 here.
The micro-finance institutions in some states, especially Andhra Pradesh, faced problems on account of use of strong-arm tactics for recovery of loans. This also resulted in suicide by some borrowers.
Chidambaram also asked MFIs to verify data on borrowers with credit bureau to avoid multiple borrowing or over indebtedness.
"I will request the micro finance sector to adapt itself to the expectation of public at large, especially, with regard to their code of conduct," he said.
He further said the proposed Micro Finance Institutions (Development and Regulation) Bill, 2012 will provide adequate legislative framework for development and regulation of the sector.
"We are hopeful that the bill will be cleared by the standing committee, then brought to Parliament for passage. Once the bill is passed, I hope that it will provide an adequate legislative framework for the entire gamut of micro-finance services," he said.
The legislation seeks to empower RBI to regulate the sector and fix interest rates caps on loans provided by them.
The bill, which was drafted in the backdrop of problems faced by borrowers of MFIs in Andhra Pradesh and other states, also seeks compulsory registration of MFIs with the Reserve Bank of India.
Micro finance has come under intense regulatory scrutiny in the wake of an Act passed by the Andhra Pradesh government.


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The inevitable happened yesterday. I spent the day helping with a house move and spent the day scratching my increasingly itchy scalp. I thought this was just a result of the dust rising from moving furniture so didn't think anything of it until I returned home to find MrM watching TV with a beer in his hand.
Asking about his day, he told me about work, about picking up the McBaby from nursery and at number 4 on the running order, "Oh one of the ladies at nursery thought she saw a nit on McBaby's head". Sip of beer.
I stared at him. "And what have you done about it?" I shrieked.
"Well, I didn't think it was that bad."
I huffed, ranted and waved my arms around. "You enjoy your beer; I'll go and get some special shampoo."
MrM reluctantly agreed to go and get the special comb and the shampoo so that I could scratch my head. About two hours later, we were all back and treating ourselves with the shampoo and a nit comb. We hated this proportionately in decreasing order of age.
We're all in the clear today, hugely embarrassed and eager to get haircuts. So, if you've seen me in the last couple of weeks, it might be worth getting someone to check your hair. Hangs head (and hair) in shame….


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New York Daily News "Osi Umenyiora retired from the NFL on Wednesday after signing a one-day contract with the Giants. But while speaking with reporters in East Rutherford, the defensive end claimed he garnered legitimate last-minute interest about playing for a different organization. And that team was the Jets,..." August 26
Sources tell @caplannfl & me that Giants, Osi Umenyiora are discussing a ceremonial one-day contract so he can retire a Giant.
SB Nation "The New York Giants and Osi Umenyiora are discussing a one-day contract so the defensive end can officially retire as a member of the team, according to Dan Graziano of ESPN. Umenyiora has been in the league since the Giants took him with the 56th overall pick in the 2003 NFL Draft. The..." July 27
New York Post "Osi Umenyiora never wanted to leave the Giants, but he did. After two seasons with the Falcons, Umenyiora is set to become a free agent and he does not want to retire. What he does want is to finish his NFL career where he started it — with the Giants. "It was nearly a third of my life that..." February 25
Falcons are asking DE Osi Umenyiora to take a pay cut, source tells @FOXSports1. Slated to make $3.5m in '14. We'll see how this resolves.
NFL.com "The Atlanta Falcons already started getting rid of some veteran players like cornerback Asante Samuel and linebacker Stephen Nicholas. It looks like Osi Umenyiora is safe. Asked about Umenyiora's future at the NFL Scouting Combine Thursday, Mike Smith lauded Umenyiora's leadership and..." February 20
ESPN "There is no doubt where veteran defensive end Osi Umenyiora wants to be next season. He owns a home in the Atlanta area. He feels an allegiance to his Falcons teammates. He has tremendous respect for general manager Thomas Dimitroff and head coach Mike Smith. "I would love to stay, and I..." February 11
ESPN "Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Mike Nolan said veteran defensive end Osi Umenyiora met with coach Mike Smith about Umenyiora's new reserve role. Nolan implied Umenyiora was content with the move. "As I'm sure Mike told you, he had a conversation with Mike and it went very well, was my..." December 17
#Falcons DE Osi Umenyiora was fined $15,750 for roughing the passer.
Osi Umenyora is the newest Falcon as he has agreed to a 2 year deal
Atlanta Journal-Constitution "Osi Umeniyiora, who was a major cog along the defensive line that help propel the New York Giants to two Super Bowl titles, finalized a deal with the the Atlanta Falcons on Wednesday. Umenyiora, the 10th active sack leader in the NFL, visited the Falcons last Wednesday, and his stated his desire..." March 27
New York Post "Osi Umenyiora reportedly won't have the Giants to complain about anymore. The veteran defensive end, who became known as much for contract squabbles as production on the field in recent years, is set to bolt Big Blue and sign with the Falcons today or tomorrow, according to an Internet report..." March 24
Atlanta Journal-Constitution "Free agent defensive end Osi Umenyiora, the 10th active sack leader in the NFL, wants to join the Atlanta Falcons. Umenyiora, who visited the Falcons on Wednesday and has won two Super Bowl rings with the New York Giants, expressed his desire to play for the Falcons on the Jamie and Jerome Show..." March 23
Falcons making strong push to sign Giants free-agent DE Osi Umenyiora and are trying to wrap up a deal with him before end of the weekend.
Osi Umenyiora has made his first visit. It was today with the Atlanta Falcons. No word on a signing yet.
NFL.com "In a depressed pass-rusher market, the news on free agent Osi Umenyiora has been non-existent since predicting 10 days ago that he would be the NFL's Defensive Player of the Year in 2013. As we enter the second week of free agency, word has finally leaked of Umenyiora suitors. USA Today's Mike..." March 18


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VANCOUVER, Wash. (AP) — A small school district in southwest Washington has saved taxpayers millions of dollars by refinancing its school bonds.
The Columbian (http://is.gd/9MIA9r) reports the Camas School District will save $2.2 million over the next six years by refinancing decade-old bonds.
District officials say the savings will go to taxpayers, in the form of reduced tax levies.
The Camas school board achieved the savings by approving the issuance of nearly $22 million in refunding bonds last week. Officials say interest rates average 1.42 percent on the new bonds compared to 5 percent on the old debt.
Information from: The Columbian, http://www.columbian.com


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Here's an example: Earn 10¢ on April 2nd and you have until May 31st to redeem.


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KIND Blog
September 27th, 2013
Big Brothers Big Sisters: Building Community Through Mentorship
Acts of kindness, both big and small, can have a long-lasting ripple effect. In the case of John Liu, a financial professional living in New York City, the kindness shown to him by strangers as a child continues to inspire him to volunteer his time as an adult. His story is a great example of […]Read More
August 01st, 2013
Vote for Your Favorite SMASH 24-Hour Short Surf Film
Here at KIND, we work with a lot of talented, active and creative individuals. But we are constantly inspired by how much more everyone can accomplish through teamwork. We never imagined how exhilarating it would be to watch three talented independent film teams write, direct, shoot and edit a short film in only 24-hours. We […]Read More


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Welcome to WebmasterWorld Guest from 188.8.131.52
Forum Moderators: ergophobe
One of our fields will contain group names. There are about 80 different group names. most records will only have one associated group name, but a few records will have 2-4 group names associated with that one record.
In regard to data structure, I had considered using a relational database, but that seemed like overkill. A non-relational database can give us all the functionality we need with just one field. Thre are only fields we need 'last_name', 'first_name', 'groups', and 'comment' fields (plus 'id' and 'date_entered' fields for back end functions).
I'll probably have to split the string with comma delimiter so I can compare it with the approved values. (If you think this is crazy, I'm open to hearing arguments for using a relational database.)
If I use a select (drop-down menu), the menu would be terribly long. So, instead, I'm considering allowing the user to type in the group names, but validate them against the "approved" list of groups.
What do you all think would be the best way to do this? I want maximize usability and minimize errors.
Thanks in advance for any thoughts!
If your single field idea works and you have good methods to extract values when users select multiple groups - then go for it.
As for the issue of usability - before trying to offer suggestions - the main consideration would be the type of user who will be filling out the form.
Are they internal or external? Will they have existing knowledge of the groups? And so on...
Another issue would be whether the group names could be "grouped" in any way (e.g. creating 4 lists of 20 names each)
However even 80 items in a drop-down menu may not be too long - especially if they suit being displayed in some order i.e. alphabetical.
Just look at the size of lists that one uses when selecting 'country' on some forms.
Finally - if you are going to have the user manually enter in the group - and then validate it - perhaps some type of predictive 'on-screen' matching would help.
The idea of allowing user to manually enter the names really depends on their familiarity with the group names and the possibility of errors in their attempts.
Would be a good case of some old fashioned usability testing...
The options will be organized alphabetically, so that'll help users search them. Most of the users will be at least minimally familiar with the categories.
It'd be great if it were possible in a form's select element to show major categories in bold and then indent each category's entries. Can a drop down menu do that?
In terms of categorizing within a select element - using just plain text - you could do something like:
Category A
- group a1
- group a2
Category B
- group b1
- group b2
- group b3
and so on....
Another idea would be to test out the form using CheckBoxes (yes, 80 of them :)
Actually you might find that this is the most "easy to use, fool proof" approach in terms of usability and reducing error rate.
<option value="">=========</option>
<option value="">Category A</option>
<option value="a1">- group a1</option>
<option value="a2">- group a2</option>
<option value="">=========</option>
<option value="">Category B</option>
<option value="b1">- group b1</option>
The problem with it is that there are 'empty' values that a user could select - you'd just need to validate these.
At least this approach keeps things simple - is accessible to most - and can easily be generated from a database list of groups, or manually entered when setting up the form.
Whether it's a preferred approach in terms of usability...
for this:
<optgroup label="Category A">
<option value="a1">Group a1</option>
<option value="a2">Group a2</option>
<optgroup label="Category B">
<option value="b1">Group b1</option>
<option value="b2">Group b2</option>
<option value="b3">Group b3</option>


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Elaeagnus angustifolia
Authors: Mandy Tu, eds. Barry Rice and John M. Randall, Global Invasive Species Team, The Nature Conservancy
- 1 Overview
- 2 Description and diagnostic characters
- 3 Stewardship Summary
- 4 Habitat and range
- 5 Impacts and threats posed
- 6 Biology and ecology
- 7 Economic Uses
- 8 Management
- 9 Examples of Management on Nature Conservancy Preserves
- 10 Monitoring
- 11 Research Needs
- 12 Resources
- 13 Information Sources
- 14 Images from Bugwood.org
- Appearance
- Elaeagnus angustifolia is a shrub or small tree that can grow to 35 ft. (10 m) tall. The young branches are silvery while the older branches are brown. They are occasionally thorny and covered with scales.
- Foliage
- The leaves are simple, alternate and lanceolate to oblong-lanceolate. They are 1-4 in. (3-10 cm) long and have silver scales on both sides.
- Flowers
- The fragrant flowers are 0.5-0.6 in. (1.2-1.5 cm) wide, silvery outside and yellow within. There are 1-3 flowers within the leaf axils. They appear in May to June.
- Fruit
- The fruit are 0.4 in. (1 cm) long, are yellow and almost completely covered by densely silver scales. The fruit contain one large seed that can be up to 0.4 in. (1 cm) long within.
- Ecological Threat
- Although Elaeagnus angustifolia is not considered to be invasive in New England at this time, in the western part of the United States it is considered invasive as well as a noxious weed in some states. It grows especially well in riparian situations and has been documented as out-competing the native plains cottonwood (Populus deltoides). It has been planted along roads and highways in New England because of its drought and salt tolerance. Nitrogen-fixing nodules allow this plant to survive in adverse conditions. Autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata), its invasive relative, has a similar biology and is already widely invasive in New England.
Description and diagnostic characters
Elaeagnus angustifolia is a shrub or small tree in the Oleaster family (Elaeagnaceae). It can grow up to 9 meters (30 feet) in height and is often thorny. The leaves of E. angustifolia are simple, alternate, lanceolate to oblong, 4-8 cm in length, and are entire (untoothed) along the leaf margins.[1] The upper surface of its leaves are light green in color and are covered with silvery star-shaped hairs, and the lower surface of its leaves are silvery white and densely covered with scales.[2]
E. angustifolia can flower and set fruit in three years. Flowers of E. angustifolia are produced in umbel-like inflorescences from the leaf axils, and are small, light yellow, highly aromatic, and bisexual. In North America, flowers are usually borne early in the growing season (June-July), shortly after leaf emergence. The olive-shaped fruits are dry and mealy, yellow-red in color, and are produced in great quantities (VNPS 2000). These mealy fruits are readily eaten by many species of birds, which works to disperse its seeds.[3] Although E. angustifolia establishes primarily by seed, vegetative propagation can also occur.[3]
E. angustifolia is sometimes confused with the closely related autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata), which is also an invasive species. E. angustifolia can be easily distinguished from E. umbellata, because E. angustifolia leaves are narrower, longer, and is often more silvery in color, while E. umbellata leaves are a bit greener. Branches of E. angustifolia are also flexible and usually thorny, whereas E. umbellata branches are not, and E. angustifolia has distinctive dry mealy yellow fruits (E. umbellata fruits are typically red-pink and juicy). It is also possible to confuse E. angustifolia with native Shepherdia species. Shepherdia and Elaeagnus are in the same family (Elaeagnaceae) and therefore share several characteristics, but the leaves of Elaeagnus are alternately arranged while Shepherdia leaves are oppositely arranged.
Stewardship Summary
E. angustifolia is native to Europe and western Asia. It was originally planted in the United States beginning in the late 1800s as an ornamental shrub or small tree. By the mid-1900s it had escaped cultivation into the central and western U.S., and is now extensively naturalized in 17 western states. It also occurs in southern Canada, from Ontario to British Columbia. Until recently, E. angustifolia was still recommended by the U.S. Soil Conservation Service (now called the Natural Resources and Conservation Service) for wildlife and windbreak plantings. In the western U.S., it has become a major problem in riparian woodlands, threatening even large, hardy native trees such as cottonwoods. E. angustifolia can form dense, monospecific stands, that can alter vegetation structure, nutrient cycling, and the hydrology of a system. E. angustifolia is especially proficient in displacing native riparian vegetation after disturbances, such as flooding (or with altered flooding regimes). No allelopathic chemicals have been found in E. angustifolia.[3]
To control E. angustifolia, seedlings and sprouts can easily be hand-pulled when the soil is moist. Once it becomes firmly established, the most effective control method is the cut-stump herbicide treatment. This method is both labor-intensive and expensive, but can be highly effective (good kill rate if applied correctly), and is more target-specific than foliar applications of herbicide. Most non-chemical methods for the control of large E. angustifolia stands (bulldozing, mowing, brush-cutting) are not effective in the long-term, unless all resprouts are continually cut and removed, or otherwise treated, for many consecutive years. Vertebrate herbivores are not known to feed on E. angustifolia and few insects seem to utilize or damage it. Canker disease occasionally attacks E. angustifolia, but is not effective as a control agent.
Habitat and range
E. angustifolia occurs in a variety of soil and moisture conditions (such as on bare mineral substrates or in nitrogen-poor areas), but prefers sandy floodplains and is often associated with open, moist riparian habitats. Mature E. angustifolia trees are tolerant of floods, droughts, and to close shearing or burning in the dormant season, but does not tolerate acidic conditions (pH<6.0). Seedlings and young saplings of E. angustifolia are shade tolerant.
E. angustifolia is native to Europe and western Asia. As a North American invader, E. angustifolia occurs primarily in the central and western U.S., but can also occur in the eastern U.S. (Virginia to Pennsylvania), sometimes in association with autumn-olive (E. umbellata). In the west, E. angustifolia is common in the Great Basin at 240-600 m (800-2000 feet) elevation, and is abundant in riparian zones of the Great Plains; e.g., the Platte River in Nebraska. It is especially plentiful in some intermountain basins in the Rockies, such as the Big Horn Basin and in the Uintah Basin.
E. angustifolia has been reported growing outside cultivation in the following states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.[4] E. angustifolia has been declared a state noxious weed in Colorado and in New Mexico.
Despite its invasive properties, E. angustifolia is still being recommended and sold to landowners for horticulture, wildlife habitats, and as windbreaks. As recently as 1984, several governmental agencies (primarily extension forestry and state forestry services) were still subsidizing the distribution of E. angustifolia seedlings to private landowners in 16 of 17 western states for wildlife plantings (Olson & Knopf 1986). This has likely contributed to the current widespread occurrence of E. angustifolia in the U.S.
Impacts and threats posed
E. angustifolia can invade both open upland and riparian bottomland (marshland and other wetland) communities, alter the course of plant succession, and ultimately result in lowered levels of native plant and animal diversity. It negatively impacts natural areas by creating dense, monotypic stands that outcompete native vegetation, modifying vegetation structure, and displacing native wildlife. E. angustifolia can also alter nutrient cycling and system hydrology by spreading throughout woodlands, connecting lowland riparian forests with more open, upland areas. This contributes to the stabilization of riverbanks against future flooding, increasing overbank deposition, and limiting the number of suitable sites for native cottonwood regeneration.[5] Further, E. angustifolia trees have high rates of evapotranspiration, utilizing more water resources than native species [6], and can eventually change riparian sites into relatively dry uplands with E. angustifolia as the climax species (Currier 1982, in Olson & Knopf 1986). Dense thickets of E. angustifolia can also increase fuel loads that may cause catastrophic wildfire.[7]
Once E. angustifolia is established in a watershed, it will likely remain a significant component of riparian communities along both unregulated and regulated stretches within that watershed. This is because E. angustifolia is able to germinate and survive in the shaded understory of native trees, such as under cottonwoods. When those native cottonwood trees die (from old age, windthrow, or beaver), E. angustifolia quickly becomes the dominant shrub or tree community, and can perpetuate itself through both sexual reproduction and/or by vegetative growth. The shaded E. angustifolia understory then becomes unfavorable for the (re-)establishment of most other native plant species.[8]
E. angustifolia has been touted for enhancing wildlife habitat by providing shelter and plentiful edible fruits, but in fact, communities dominated by E. angustifolia can be detrimental to many native animal species in the long-term, since it provides inferior wildlife habitat to that of native riparian vegetation. Knopf and Olson (1984)[9] and Brown (1990)[10] both documented greater bird species richness in riparian areas dominated by native vegetation rather than in E. angustifolia infestations in the Rocky Mountains and along the Snake River in Idaho, respectively, especially for cavity-nesting and insectivorous birds. Brown (1990)[10] speculated that this could be due in part to the reduced numbers of insects in E. angustifolia trees. Ducks also tend to avoid wetlands rimmed by dense stands of E. angustifolia.[9]
Biology and ecology
Light, soil conditions, and temperature
E. angustifolia is a hardy, long-lived shrub or small tree that can survive and prosper in a variety of soil and moisture conditions. This adaptability has led E. angustifolia to be widely planted in shelterbelts throughout the prairie states, for wildlife habitat plantings, for erosion control, and for highway beautification.
E. angustifolia is commonly found invading floodplains, riverbanks, stream courses, marshes, and irrigation ditches in the West, occurring from sea level to at least 2,438 m (8,000 ft). E. angustifolia can grow at a rate of up to 1.8 m (6 ft) per year. It is somewhat shade tolerant and can withstand competition from other shrubs and trees. This tolerance of shaded conditions allows E. angustifolia to establish and survive in native cottonwood understories for prolonged periods, and then become dominant once the native vegetation senesces.
E. angustifolia thrives under a wide range of soil textures from sand to heavy clay, and can withstand prolonged flooding and silting. It grows best in deep sandy or loamy soils with only slight salt (100-3,500 p/m) and alkali content. The soil pH must range between 6 and 9. E. angustifolia can also survive considerable drought, and is therefore adapted to ephemeral riparian areas in arid regions. E. angustifolia requires a minimum of 20 cm (ca 12 inches) of precipitation per year, and has a high rate of evapotranspiration, which robs water from native species. E. angustifolia can withstand temperatures ranging from -45° to 46° C (-50° to 115° F).[6]
E. angustifolia can reproduce either sexually or vegetatively. Numerous root suckers are produced at the root crown after disturbance or damage to the above-ground tree from fire, cutting, or girdling.
Seed production and dispersal enables E. angustifolia to rapidly colonize new areas. Trees begin bearing fruits at 3 to 5 years. The fruits are then eaten and widely dispersed by birds. The outer layer of the seed is impermeable to digestive juices. The large seeds can remain viable for up to 3 years and are capable of germinating over a broad range of conditions.[8] Germination rates can be enhanced by stratification in moist sand for 90 days at 5° C (41° F). The seeds of E. angustifolia can germinate anytime from fall-to-spring, and this gives it a considerable advantage over native riparian species, since E. angustifolia is able to exploit suitable germination conditions over a longer time interval.[5] Furthermore, the seeds can germinate on undisturbed soils, so the species can establish itself in environments immediately without having to wait for rare events like floods or fires, unlike many native riparian species.[11]
Seedlings of E. angustifolia are tolerant of shade, allowing seedlings to survive under the dense shade of a native canopy, then rapidly grow and dominate once the upper canopy is removed. Spring moisture and slightly alkaline soils tend to favor seedling growth.
E. angustifolia is an early colonizer of disturbed floodplains and streambanks. It is relatively shade tolerant, and once established, can persist throughout seral stages and become the climax dominant species. In disturbed or modified environments (e.g. fire, droughts, and decreased flood intensities because of dams), the colonization of E. angustifolia is favored over native woody species.[11] Beaver can also promote the growth of E. angustifolia, as they preferentially damage native cottonwood trees. Lesica and Miles (1999)[11] determined that beaver suppress cottonwood maturation, which allows quantities of E. angustifolia to increase. Eventually, the shade of E. angustifolia prevents cottonwood recruitment, and E. angustifolia eventually becomes the dominant climax species.
Economic Uses
E. angustifolia has been widely planted as an ornamental plant, for windbreasks, and for erosion control. The wood is not commercially or economically important. E. angustifolia has also been often planted for wildlife habitat purposes. Mourning dove and northern mockingbird nest in it, and other wildlife uses it for shelter. More than 50 species of birds and mammals eat the sweet, mealy fruit, and the foliage is browsed by deer and livestock. It is sometimes valued as a plant for honeybees, and beaver often use the branches of E. angustifolia for dam-building material.
Potential for Restoration of Invaded Sites
Large mature stands of E. angustifolia are nearly impossible to eradicate throughout an entire watershed once it becomes well-established, so the early detection and rapid response to treat newly detected populations of E. angustifolia is important. Small patches of E. angustifolia, however, can be adequately controlled using a variety of control methods. All control techniques used to manage E. angustifolia are labor-intensive and expensive, especially in the first year of large-scale E. angustifolia removal. Mowing, cutting, burning, excavation, spraying, girdling, and bulldozing have all been used for E. angustifolia control, and they all work to reduce aboveground biomass, sometimes to varying degrees of success. Successful long-term control of E. angustifolia requires that all control sites to be continually monitored and follow-up treatments vigilantly applied for several years, since E. angustifolia frequently resprouts or develops root suckers from the root crown.
Along regulated-rivers, once E. angustifolia trees have been killed and/or removed, the ensuing restoration of native trees and shrubs can be improved by simulating historic flood regimes and rates of water drawdown at the time of cottonwood seed dispersal (Friedman 1993, in Shafroth et al. 1995).[8] In some situations, the planting of poles or nursery stock of native trees and shrubs can assist in the re-establishment of native riparian communities.[8]
Manual and Mechanical Control
E. angustifolia seedlings and sprouts can be hand-pulled or weed wrenched out when soil is moist.[2] Saplings with a trunk diameter less than 3.5 inches can be pulled sufficiently with a weed wrench.[2] Pulling or digging out larger plants is both extremely labor-intensive and not recommended, since it can leave behind root fragments that can resprout. Seedlings can also be continually mowed for good control, but larger plants respond to cutting or girdling by vigorously resprouting, resulting in thicker, denser growth, unless herbicide is immediately applied to cut surfaces after cutting.
Prescribed Burning
Small seedlings of E. angustifolia may be susceptible to fire, but burning alone does not adequately control larger individuals of E. angustifolia, since it can vigorously re-sprout following fire (similar to cutting or mowing). Prescribed burning, however, can be used as either a pretreatment to, or used in combination with another control method, called integrated pest management (IPM).
Chemical Control
Seedlings, saplings, and mature E. angustifolia trees can all be effectively killed by the careful, judicious, and targeted application of herbicide. Foliar and basal bark applications can be effective, especially for young individuals or for resprouts, but there may be off-target effects (from overspray or drift) if applied as a foliar spray to large stands. The most specific herbicide application technique for large mature trees is the cut-stump application method. First cut the stem/trunk as close to the ground as possible, then immediately (within a few minutes) brush-on or squirt herbicide onto the cambium layer of that cut-stump. Hacking and frilling ("hack and squirt"), girdling plus herbicide, or injection of herbicide, are also all effective at killing mature trees.
Glyphosate (e.g. RoundUp®) and triclopyr ester (e.g. Garlon 4®) have both been reported to be effective in killing mature E. angustifolia trees.[12] Caplan (2002)[7] reported excellent kill rates using a 50% solution of Garlon 4® in a cut-stump treatment (herbicide applied within 5 minutes of cutting) on trees with trunks less than 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter in New Mexico. This may not be effective on trees with trunks larger than 8 inches in diameter.[7] Caplan (2002)[7] then followed-up the cutting treatments with foliar sprays on root sprouts for the following two years (25% solution of Garlon 4®), and reports that instead of large dense stands of E. angustifolia, he now finds on average, less than 3 sprouts per acre. He adds that continued vigilance, monitoring, and follow-up treatments are necessary for long-term success.
Edelen and Crowder (1997)[13] eliminated E angustifolia trees in Washington State by cutting them in mid-summer, and then mowing the re-sprouts once in late summer the following year. While effective, this non-herbicidal method was labor intensive and costly. They decided that their next efforts would include using herbicide to first kill the trees before removal. They used imazapyr (e.g. Contain® or Arsenal®) at different concentrations, and found that Contain® (used in a 4% solution; 14% active ingredient) damaged about 75% of the trees. Large trees showed damage in the upper half of canopy, while younger trees and sprouts were strongly affected throughout their entire canopy. When Garlon 4® (triclopyr) was applied as an aerial spray (no concentrations given), they reported a 90% kill rate (W. Crowder, pers. comm.).
Parker and Williamson (1996)[12] report that basal bark applications (spraying herbicide directly onto the bottom 60 cm [2 feet] of each stem) with triclopyr (e.g. Garlon 4®or Remedy®) appeared to give effective control. They added that with these basal applications, top-kill is excellent, and this method minimizes soil disturbance and maintains other desirable vegetation. Parker and Williamson (1995)[12] also stressed that it is important that applications completely wet the entire circumference of all stems or clumps of stems, but not to the point of run-off. The basal bark method is effective with small trees with smooth bark. For larger trees, the sprayed area must extend upward to include some smooth bark. Treatment of larger trees with thick, rough bark using this method may provide only about 50% control. The best time to apply herbicide is when the plants are actively growing from May through September. Parker and Williamson (1996)[12] recommend that burning is effective in large stands for first reducing biomass, and then basal applications should be used on resprouts.
Biological Control
There are no reported biocontrol agents for the control of E. angustifolia.
Examples of Management on Nature Conservancy Preserves
Brian Winter of The Nature Conservancy's Northern Tallgrass Prairie Ecoregion in Minnesota and the eastern Dakotas reports that E. angustifolia tends to occur in old agricultural fields, ditches, and where it was planted for wildlife habitat. He notes that if E. angustifolia is allowed to reach maturity and produce seeds, it becomes particularly pernicious because it can then form dense thickets that shade-out the natives, change overall vegetation structure, and becomes even more widespread as the seeds are dispersed by wind and birds. Brian has tried controlling E. angustifolia by cutting and by burning, but has found that in both cases, re-sprouts will occur. He recommends using a herbicide formulation of picloram and 2,4-D (e.g. Pathway®) to control E. angustifolia. He applies 100% concentrate Pathway® on cut-stumps where it kills the roots and prevents re-sprouting, and as a foliar spray at label concentrations to kill small seedlings. Brian believes that the potential to control E. angustifolia is high if new plantings are eliminated, and if preserves work with all local landowners and other stakeholders to cut-stump treat and kill all mature trees.
In Idaho's Thousand Springs Preserve, Chris O'Brien reported that pulling seedlings was effective when the soil is moist, but required a great deal of labor. In Utah, Sue Bellagamba adds that pulling is effective for small trees. The most effective method for controlling E. angustifolia, however, is to cut-down the trees and then apply herbicide to the cut-stumps.
Following control treatments, further control efforts and monitoring is needed (at least) annually for several years to determine results from your management activities. Viability of seeds in the seed bank may also determine how long monitoring at a particular site needs to be maintained.
Permanent plots, or permanent transects through experimental and control plots, where visual estimates of vegetation cover, are usually appropriate to determine the effects of management treatments, if enough plots are sampled.
The chosen monitoring method should depend on the objectives and goals of the restoration project. For example, if information is sought regarding the treatment response of individual native species, a more detail-oriented sampling method may be needed. Trained botanists may be required to determine which species are native and which are potentially problematic exotic species. Analyzing monitoring data regularly will determine whether management objectives are being met and if modifications to the control treatments are needed.
Research Needs
The following research topics need attention:
- Continue and expand on studies examining the invasiveness and impacts of E. angustifolia on natural systems (nutrient cycling, native plant regeneration and survival, etc.).
- Conduct further research into identifying which native species are good competitors and how best to introduce those species into restoration projects.
- Continue projects to find native alternatives to E. angustifolia for wildlife habitats, windbreaks, highway shoulders, and other non-agricultural areas.
- Continue research on the best control methods for E. angustifolia, and on possible biological control agents
- Zouhar, Kris. 2005. Elaeagnus angustifolia, Fire Effects Information System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, Fire Sciences Laboratory
- Global Invasive Species Database. 2011. Invasive Species Specialist Group (ISSG) of the IUCN Species Survival Commission
- Virginia Tech Department of Forest Resources and Environmental Conservation
- University of Connecticutt Database of Trees, Shrubs and Vines
- University of California, Jepson Flora Project
- Invasive Plant Atlas of New England (IPANE)
- Texas Invasive Plant and Pest Council
- University of Florida IFAS Extension
- Flora of China, www.eFloras.org
- California Invasive Plant Council
Information Sources
- ↑ Hickman, J.C. (ed.) 1993. The Jepson Manual: Higher Plants of California. University of California Press, Berkeley.
- ↑ Deiter, L. 2000. Elaeagnus angustifolia L. In: Bossard, C.C., Randall, J.M. and M.C. Hoshovsky (eds.) Invasive Plants of California's Wildlands. University of California Press, Berkeley. 2.0 2.1 2.2
- ↑ Muzika, R.-M. and J.M. Swearingen. 1998. Russian-olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia L.). PCA Alien Plant Working Group. (http://www.nps.gov/plants/alien/fact/elan1.htm). 3.0 3.1 3.2
- ↑ USDA, NRCS. 2001. The PLANTS Database, Version 3.1 (http://plants.usda.gov). National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA 70874-4490 USA.
- ↑ Howe, W.H. and F.L. Knopf. 1991. On the imminent decline of Rio Grande cottonwoods in central New Mexico. The Southwestern Naturalist 36(2): 218-224. 5.0 5.1
- ↑ Carman, J.G. and J.D. Brotherson. 1982. Comparisons of sites infested and not infested with saltcedar (Tamarix pentandra) and Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia). Weed Science 30: 360-364. 6.0 6.1
- ↑ Caplan, T. 2002. Controlling Russian olives within cottonwood gallery forests along the Middle Rio Grande floodplain (New Mexico). Ecological Restoration 20(2): 138-139. 7.0 7.1 7.2 7.3
- ↑ Shafroth, P.B., Auble, G.T., and M.L. Scott. 1995. Germination and establishment of the native plains cottonwood (Populus deltoides Marshall subsp. monilifera) and the exotic Russian-olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia L.). Conservation Biology 9(5): 1169-1175 8.0 8.1 8.2 8.3
- ↑ Knopf, F.L. and T.E. Olson. 1984. Naturalization of Russian-olive: implications to Rocky Mountain wildlife. Wildlife Society Bulletin 12: 289-298. 9.0 9.1
- ↑ Brown, C.R. 1990. Avian use of native and exotic riparian habitats on the Snake River, Idaho. M.S. Thesis, Colorado State University, 60 pages. 10.0 10.1
- ↑ Lesica, P. and S. Miles. 1999. Russian olive invasion into cottonwood forests along a regulated river in north-central Montana. Canadian Journal of Botany 77: 1077-1083. 11.0 11.1 11.2
- ↑ Parker, D. and M. Williamson. 1996. Low-impact, selective herbicide application for control of saltcedar and Russian-olive: a preliminary field guide. USDA-FS Southwestern region. 12.0 12.1 12.2 12.3
- ↑ Edelen, W.J. 1997. Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia) control experiment underway (Washington). Restoration & Management Notes 15(2): 198-199.
Additional References
- Olson, T.E. and F.L. Knopf. 1986. Agency subsidization of a rapidly spreading exotic. Wildlife Society Bulletin 14: 492-493.
- Olson, T.E. and F.L. Knopf. 1986. Naturalization of Russian-olive in the western United States. Western Journal of Applied Forestry 1: 65-69.
- Virginia Native Plant Society. 2000. Invasive alien plant species of Virginia: autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata Thunberg) and Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia L.).(http://www.vnps.org/invasive/inveleag.htm).
Original Document
Element Stewardship Abstract; Mandy Tu, eds. Barry Rice and John M. Randall, 2003.
Images from Bugwood.org


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My whirlpool fridge is leaking water from the freezer into the fridge, and then onto the floor. I vacumed. still leaks.
I believe the drain hole can just be frozen and needs to thaw out. Sometimes there is food there--a frozen pea that got lost, for instance. Unplug the fridge for several hours to start the melt down process (obviously the auto defrost mechanism is not working sufficiently in your case). In the meantime, remove the bottom floor piece inside the freezer. (Refer to your fridge diagram.) You should be able to see where that drain hole is. You can pour a little hot water down it and wait to see if the water comes out below. You can use a plastic straw and do some light pushing. Some folks who have this problem repeatedly have extended a piece of copper wire down that hole permanently (wrapping one end on something) which seems to prevent refreezing.


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Monday Cuteness! Hilary Duff Shows Off Luca!Shana Aborn
If this doesn't make your Monday, nothing will!
Hilary Duff has been remarkably generous about sharing pictures of her darling baby boy, Luca Cruz Comrie, via her Twitter account. And just a few minutes ago, she showed off the latest in the series – this adorable shot of her little guy propped up on what looks like a bouncer.
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[Photo: via Twitter]
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- Myxedema coma
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- Accident Brain Vascular, accident cerebral, Accident cerebrovascular, Accidents Brain Vascular, Accidents Cerebrovascular, Angiopathy, Apoplexy, APOPLEXY CEREBRAL, Apoplexy Cerebrovascular, blood vessel disorder, blood vessels disorder, Brain Attack, Brain Vascular Accident, Brain Vascular Accidents, cerebral accident, Cerebral apoplexy, CEREBRAL INFARCTION, Cerebral Stroke, Cerebral Strokes, cerebral vascular accident, cerebrovascular accident, Cerebrovascular accident (CVA), Cerebrovascular accident (disorder), Cerebrovascular Accidents, Cerebrovascular Apoplexy, Cerebrovascular Stroke, Cerebrovascular Strokes, CVA, CVA (cerebral vascular accident), CVA (Cerebrovascular Accident), CVA Cerebrovascular accident, CVA cerebrovascular accident (unspecified (stroke)), CVA Cerebrovascular accident unspecified, CVA unspecified, CVAs (Cerebrovascular Accident), disease (or disorder) blood vessels, disease (or disorder) vascular, Disease Vascular, Diseases Vascular, Disorder of blood vessel (disorder), Disorder vascular, SECTION 3-8 VASCULAR DISEASES, stroke, Stroke (Cerebrum), Stroke (disorder), Stroke and cerebrovascular accident unspecified, Stroke and cerebrovascular accident unspecified (disorder), Stroke Cerebral, Stroke cerebrovascular, Stroke neurological, Stroke not specified as haemorrhage or infarction, Stroke not specified as hemorrhage or infarction, Stroke Syndrome, Stroke unspecified, Stroke/cerebrovasc accident, Stroke/cerebrovascular accident, Stroke/CVA undefined, Stroke/CVA unspecified, Strokes, Strokes Cerebral, Strokes Cerebrovascular, Syndrome stroke, VASCULAR (EXTRACARDIAC) DISORDERS, Vascular Accident Brain, Vascular Accidents Brain, VASCULAR DIS, Vascular Disease, Vascular disease (disorder), Vascular disease or syndrome, VASCULAR DISEASES, Vascular Diseases and Syndromes, Vascular Disorder, VASCULAR DISORDERS, VASCULAR PROBLEM, VASCULAR_NOS, VASCULAR_NOS PROBLEM
- Definition
- Be the first to add a definition for CVA Vascular disorders causes - Rule Outs
- External Links Related to CVA Vascular disorders causes - Rule Outs
- Wikipedia
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- Images
- PubMed (National Library of Medicine)
- NGC (National Guideline Clearinghouse)
- Medscape (eMedicine)
- Harrison's Online (accessmedicine)
- NEJM (The New England Journal of Medicine)


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7 Steps to Defy Your Age Inside and Out
Eat revitalizing food
While you're turning that sleep deficit into a surplus, age-proof your meals, too. "Front-load the healthy stuff," Dr. Lodge advises. "Start every meal with a fruit or vegetable and a tall glass of water." Loading up on the vitamins and antioxidants in fruits and veggies will make you feel refreshed, recharged, and reenergized.
And no need to always skip dessert: "As long as 90% of your food choices are healthy, allow yourself to indulge in that remaining 10%," Dr. Lodge says. "When you have an ice cream cone, really, truly enjoy it!" Just like you did when you were a kid.
Next: Pump some iron
Get the latest health, fitness, anti-aging, and nutrition news, plus special offers, insights and updates from Health.com!


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|JH girls kick season off against Caliche
|Written by Holyoke Enterprise
Holyoke junior high girls' basketball team will begin the 2011 season with a trip to Caliche Thursday, Jan. 20. Tip off is set for 5 p.m.
Coaches for the 2011 squad are Jim Yakel and Theresa Tharp.
Nineteen girls reported for practice including nine seventh graders and 10 eighth graders.
Seventh graders include Dani Brandt, Adilene Bencomo, Jaylene Dominguez, Lori McWilliams, Megan Parker, Josilyn Lutze, Roni Beavers, Monica Montes and Yvette Banuelos.
Eighth graders on the team are Megan Vieselmeyer, Taylor Goldenstein, Bianca Rodriguez, Berenice Juarez, Kaylee Ham, Rosa Ochoa, Alexandria McCallum, Jentry Andersen, Stefani Razo and Ana Olivas.
Brigitte Bejarano and Kanyon Moore serve as the managers for the squad.
Along with the Jan. 20 game, other dates on the calendar for the team follow:
Jan. 27 at Wray, 4 p.m.; Feb. 3 at home against Haxtun, 5 p.m.; Feb. 7 at Sedgwick County in Ovid, 5:30 p.m.; Feb. 14 at home against St. Anthony's, 4 p.m.; Feb. 15 at Sterling, 4 p.m.; Feb. 26 B tournament in Holyoke against Sedgwick County, Haxtun and St. Anthony's, 9 a.m.; March 1 LPAA East Tournament in Holyoke, 4 p.m.; March 8 LPAA Championship, 5 p.m.


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Critique of the Week – Runner Runner Runner Runner Up
Colin Mitchell | Feb 17, 2013 | Comments 0 |
Just had to include this one in this week's cache COW because of the absolute obliviousness perpetrated by the reviewer. Mike, dude, sorry, but yes, you are "totally clueless".
Mike Skogmo – LifeInLA
You don't see many one-man shows anymore. Further, most people born this side of 1975 don't really know what a one-man show is. It's just one guy on stage talking to the audience? And it's not standup comedy?
We're not totally clueless—we're aware that once upon a time, people used to get up on stage and tell stories and things, and that this used to be called entertainment. But this is 2013. We've moved on to bigger and better (well, different at least). It is not even something people think of anymore. In fact, try to picture an aspiring actor or comedian in his mid-twenties telling people that he's planning on doing a one-man show. His friends would think he was making an absurd joke.
In the digital age, funny people want to do Internet comedy and digital series, maybe TV if they're clinging to the past. But if TV is becoming old-school in the comedy world (and it is), then one-man shows are elderly. They're geriatric.
Either unaware of or (more likely) undeterred by the fact that it's a dying art, comedian Tom Rubin opened his new one-man show Tom Rubin: Success Guru at the Santa Monica Playhouse last Friday.
As the curtain drew back, Rubin came out not as Tom Rubin the comedian, but as a character that he created: Tom Rubin the negative motivational speaker. He appeared on stage all smiles and positive energy. He did the obligatory asking of the crowd if they were feeling good, to which they replied with an enthusiastic "yea!"—it almost felt like a real seminar. The gag came quickly, though, as Rubin soon urged the crowd to join him in shouting out his motto, "Failure is an option."
The entire show is a tongue-in-cheek parody of motivational speakers and success gurus. Rubin never breaks character and takes on the persona of a man who seriously believes in spreading his message of apathy.
The concept—the anti-Tony Robbins who'll let you know just how average you are—is a funny one, but could it be sustained throughout an entire hour-long show? The shtick was good at first—he was pointing out how things like achievement are overrated—but it seemed to get a bit stale after the first few minutes; it felt a little like a standup comedian who just refused to move on to the next bit.
But little by little the crowd seemed to warm to the whole idea. Rubin settled in and the jokes got funnier—and dirtier. What appeared at first to be a clean show geared toward old folks slowly turned into an expletive-laden display that had the middle-aged audience hooting and hollering.
Throughout the performance, Rubin found ways to incorporate more than a dozen impressions into the show. He did several ethnic accents and celebrity impressions, and although it was a bit of a stretch to incorporate people like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Joe Pesci into the success seminar theme, the impressions were generally pretty well received.
By the end of the show, Rubin had beaten many of the typical success guru euphemisms into the ground, both to his comedic advantage and at times to his detriment, but he had supplied enough laughs to keep the house entertained throughout.
Tom Rubin: Success Guru is running Friday nights at 8 PM through February 22nd at the Santa Monica Playhouse, located at 1211 4th Street, 90401. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at www.tomrubinsuccessguru.com. It's a fun alternative for theatre-goers, and besides, you never know how many chances you have left to go see a real live one-man show.
Filed Under: colin mitchell • critique of the week • Featured • Ponderings • Weeklies
About the Author: COLIN MITCHELL: Actor/Writer/Director/Producer/Father, award-winning playwright and screenwriter, Broadway veteran, Marvel comics scribe, Van Morrison disciple, Zen-Catholic, a proud U.S. Army Brat conceived in Scotland and born in Frankfurt, Germany, currently living in Los Angeles and doing his best to piss off as many people as possible.


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Vegan Ladies of LA kicked off our first Meetup on Sunday at Babycakes in downtown Los Angeles where 13 of us gathered to make new friends and enjoy what this vegan bakery is most famous for — cupcakes! I've been resisting tasty treats like these so long I had a hard time believing I could really indulge. Reality set in pretty quickly though. I was done with the red velvet and halfway through my carrot cupcake before I realized I forgot to get a pic of them for my blog.
Founded in New York City by Erin McKenna in 2005, Babycakes makes all-natural, "mostly organic and gluten-free confections."
Babycakes was out of the gluten-free versions of the cupcakes I wanted so I tried the spelt flour versions instead. Spelt flour is made from a grain similar to wheat but a whole lot healthier. So I cannot vouch for the gluten-free cupcakes but the spelt flour variety were quite good. The red velvet was my favorite but I should have known better than to get the carrot. I was there to splurge and carrot cake tastes way too healthy for me.
Though cupcakes are their claim to fame, Babycakes also bakes:
- Cakes
- Cookies
- Cinnamon buns
- Donuts
- Brownies
- Macaroons
- Scones
- Biscuits
- Bread
- Muffins
- Apple Pie
They never use white refined sugar, opting instead for agave nectar or, for some items, unrefined sugar. And they never bake with wheat, gluten, soy, dairy, casein or eggs.
My only complaints about Babycakes are the prices and the seating.
I wanted to try the cookie sandwiches with frosting in the middle. But these were very small cookies by most anyone's standards and they wanted five dollars for them. Instead I got two cupcakes for $6.75, still a little pricy for my generally frugal budget. As for the seating, there were just a couple of small tables inside and one slightly larger table out front that only sat four of us. We made the best of it though, so immersed in good food and great company that no one seemed to care.
Website/Blog — Of all the websites I have reviewed, Babycakes is hands-down the most impressive. In fact, it is one of the friendliest, cleanest, easy-to-navigate websites I've every seen. They're right-on with every element, from the blog to the reviews page, to the ingredients list. The only suggestion I would make is providing more background information about founder Erin McKenna. The "voice" of the blog is hers so a profile of her on the About Us page would be a nice touch.
Twitter — Babycakes has two Twitter pages, one for its original NYC location and another for the store in LA. Aside from a larger follower count on the NYC version, both Twitter accounts are very similar. The following-to-follower ratio could be more balanced. For instance, of the NYC Twitter page's nearly 7,000 followers surely there are more people whose tweets Babycakes could benefit from following than just 119. The variety of tweets is pretty good, with plenty of engagement and some RTing. But many of the tweets look too much alike, as they are little more than lists of cupcake flavors, particularly on the LA page. One type of tweet Babycakes should definitely add are links to their new blog posts.
Facebook — Babycakes has two Facebook pages, though this is the one they link to on their site. More than 5,000 people "like" it and a number of people post to the wall on a regular basis. It would nice to see Babycakes engaging on the wall with their fans. This page is also missing location and contact information. The "Boxes" tab with "Discussions" can be deleted as there is nothing there and all the discussing is happening on the wall anyway. They could also use more photos, perhaps a picture for each baked item they sell, in all colors and varieties. And unless they plan on clearly designating a Facebook page for each location, I would disable the second page as having two pages is otherwise confusing.
Yelp — As all brick-and-mortar busineses should, Babycakes has a Yelp page. Two in fact, one for the NYC location and one for LA. Both are used quite frequently, though not by Babycakes. There are a number of glowing reviews, but the negative ones (at least most recently) seem to outweigh the good. Good or bad, responding to reviews is an excellent opportunity for businesses to strengthen relationships with customers — not only with the person they are addressing directly, but also with anyone who sees that Babycakes cares enough to take the time to give a quick "thank you" or to address a negative comment, even if it is only to say something like, "We always strive for improvement and appreciate your thoughts."
Flickr and YouTube — My research did not turn up a Flickr or YouTube page for Babycakes. Each would present an excellent opportunity to take advantage of the inherent SEO benefits. For instance, if someone is looking for a vegan red velvet cupcake recipe, perhaps Babycakes' image of said cupcake on Flickr would turn up in the search results, presenting an opportunity for people to learn about Babycakes and click through to the website if they like.
As for YouTube, Babycakes founder Erin McKenna seems a personable type who does an excellent job of being the fun, friendly face and voice of the organization. There is tremendous potential for her to create what could be an impressive series of on-camera cooking demos, for example, that would be ideal for a YouTube Babycakes Channel.
If you'd like to try Babycakes but do not live in the LA or NYC areas, do not despair my vegan (or curious non-vegan) friend. Babycakes delivers anywhere in the country via Federal Express.
And this just in today from Babycakes' blog. Soon I won't have to fight the traffic to get to Babycakes downtown, as they're looking to expand close by, in West Hollywood!
Special thanks to Antoanet for letting me share a couple of her pictures here. You can follow her on Twitter @ChicaVegan.
[tweetmeme source="meredithsimonds" only_single=false]
With gratitude,
Meredith Simonds, Social Media Reviewer, Blogger and Consultant
The social media suggestions in this post are general and brief. To see what a comprehensive review entails, please see my Social Media Action Plans.