Genetic love matches go cheek swab to cheek swab Nov 22, 2009
The idea is that people tend to be attracted to those who have immune system genes that are dissimilar from their own. Biologists say the HLA genes of the immune system which are responsible for recognizing and marking foreign cells such as viruses so other parts of the immune system can attack them also determine body odor "fingerprints." And people tend to be attracted to the natural body odors of those who have different HLA genes from their own ... In one study, Swiss biologist Claus... (Montana Standard, MT)
Sars patients can provide therapy Nov 22, 2009
The new approach, dubbed passive immune therapy, uses the immune cells of patients who have successfully fought off the disease. A team from the Institute for Research in Biomedicine in Bellinzona, Switzerland, focused on a type of immune cell called a B cell ... These cells make the proteins, or antibodies, that target the Sars virus for attack by the immune system. (Yahoo News -- SARS)
Vaccines on horizon for AIDS, Alzheimer's, herpes Nov 22, 2009
Unlike medicines that treat diseases, vaccines help prevent infections by revving up the body's natural immune defenses against invaders ... Today, five companies supply flu vaccine: GlaxoSmithKline, Switzerland's Novartis AG, Australia's CSL Biotherapies, MedImmune, part of Britain's AstraZeneca PLC, and France's Sanofi-Aventis SA.. (Yahoo News -- Pharmaceutical Industry News)
Sars patients can provide therapy Nov 21, 2009
The new approach, dubbed passive immune therapy, uses the immune cells of patients who have successfully fought off the disease. A team from the Institute for Research in Biomedicine in Bellinzona, Switzerland, focused on a type of immune cell called a B cell ... These cells make the proteins, or antibodies, that target the Sars virus for attack by the immune system. (Yahoo News -- SARS)
Mouse cloned to cure Parkinson's Nov 21, 2009
The advantage of using a cloned embryo is that the cells will be a perfect genetic match for the transplant recipient, removing the need for extra treatments to suppress the immune system. There are potential applications not just in Parkinson's disease, but in many other disease types as well. (Yahoo News -- Parkinson's Disease)
First Reconstitution of an Epidermis from Human Embryonic Stem Cells Nov 21, 2009
However, these technological means do not rule out the risk of immune rejection and transmission of disease ... For these experiments, I-STEM collaborated with a Spanish research team specialised in the use of such grafts in animals with a weakened immune system to overcome potential graft rejection. (Science Daily)
Tribe Evolves Brain Disease 'Resistance Gene' Nov 21, 2009
15, 2009) Specific cells within the immune system could help explain why younger people are more susceptible to variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease -- a rare, degenerative, fatal brain disorder. Patients. (Science Daily)
* World News Quick Take Nov 21, 2009
Onion and garlic are traditional remedies in the country, where they are widely believed to boost the immune system. UNITED STATES. (Taipei Times, Taiwan -- World)
Preventing H1N1 Spread to Health Care Workers: Dilemma, Debate and Confusion Nov 21, 2009
Mermel points out five variables in preventing the transmission of the virus to HCWs: the dynamics of disease transmission; the availability of personal protective equipment (PPE); compliance among HCWs in the use of PPE; cost of PPE; and immune status of HCWs ... 2, 2009) A mutation of the influenza A (H1N1) virus that is resistant to the drug oseltamivir may pose a serious health threat to hospitalized patients who have a weakened immune system, according to a new. (Science Daily)
Cross-donor system planned for region's kidney patients Nov 21, 2009
Ross has faulted other approaches for discriminating against one group of patients in favor of another, but she said she's ''totally in favor" of Roth's system. The paired-exchange system comes 50 years after Dr. Joseph Murray carried out the nation's first kidney transplant at what is now Brigham and Women's Hospital, using a kidney taken from the patient's identical twin to avoid organ rejection. Today, in part to antirejection drugs, surgeons can often transplant kidneys between perfect... (Yahoo News -- Organ Donation & Transplants)
THE REBEL: Calling for second American Revolution Nov 21, 2009
Judson: We may believe that the United States is immune to political instability and revolution, but if so, the United States is breaking all the rules of history. To the well-healed who complain I m advocating socialistic income redistribution, lay off the Cool-Aid; income has been being redistributed for the last 30 years rapidly upward to the already over-rich. (Hingham Journal, MA)
GBS a Side Effect of H1N1 Vaccine? Nov 21, 2009
Doctors told McFarland's parents he has GBS, a rare illness where the immune system attacks the nervous system ... I find it very difficult to believe this young man had GBS due to a shot he had the day before, as the body hasn't had the time to build up an adequate immune response to fight of the flu let alone cross react to his own nerve gangliosides. (CBS News)
Cervical Cancer Guidelines Nov 21, 2009
1 percent of cervical cancer occurs in women under 21 years of age in part, doctors believe, because young women's immune systems are strong enough to fight off HPV before it causes cancer. When dysplasias progress to cancers it's usually a result of older women missing screenings for years at a time; 50 percent of women diagnosed with cervical cancer each year never had a pap smear before, according to the ACOG statement. (ABC News)
New pap test guidelines: start later, have fewer Nov 21, 2009
The rate of infection with human papillomavirus, or HPV, which can cause cervical cancer, is high in teens who are sexually active, he said, but the immune system typically clears HPV within one or two years among younger women ... The new guidelines apply to healthy women, Waxman said, excluding for instance, those who have compromised immune systems, have HIV or who were exposed to diethylstilbestrol, or DES, in the womb. (FOX19.com, OH)
Holliston gets go-ahead for Saturday H1N1 clinic, but then must abide by rules Nov 21, 2009
The board invited pregnant women and mothers giving birth within the last two weeks, all residents living with infants, all residents living with a pregnant women in her third trimester and adults between 19 and 64 with medical conditions or compromised immune systems. Children were not listed. (Holliston Tab, MA)
Common Diseases Biggest Child-Killers Nov 21, 2009
The children die from dehydration, weakened immune systems and malnutrition. Often they get sick from drinking dirty water. (KIRO TV, WA)
Swine flu is making some folks alter their holiday plans Nov 21, 2009
According to the statistics we re at the age when we re probably more immune, Al Fohlin says, noting that Brooksby Village residents have neither been encouraged to get the H1N1 vaccine nor discouraged from visiting relatives over the holidays. Party planner Susan Callender of Boston Unique Events says her corporate clients are requesting menu changes in line with current health concerns as well. (Boston Globe)
The stress of harvest Nov 21, 2009
There's limited evidence linking prolonged stress to cancer, but it is known that chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making a person more susceptible to certain cancers associated with viruses. "Tired, distracted farmers are more prone to farm accidents, in part because decision-making abilities are impaired. Studies indicate that more than 50 percent of farm accidents occur during fall harvest."Long hours, physically demanding work and time pressures are all major contributors to... (Midwest Bulls Eye, NE)
The Real Shock of Fort Hood Nov 21, 2009
It would be interesting to see how " Ayaan Hirsi Ali has percieved this situation. LANDON VALENTINE 4:33 PM ET November 19, 2009 First off, this guy's commentary makes pretty good sense, and more than most of the others. That said, I don't happen to have too much empathy for Muslims in America. While I support legal immigration for all, they have effectively made their own bed. Thusly, they shouldn't complain when they have to sleep in it. They come here and try to adhere to their own "sharia"... (Slate)
Revealed: UK set for first face transplants Nov 21, 2009
It produced a report last year that concluded more research was needed to show that a new donor face transplanted on to a recipient would not be rejected by the body's immune system. New animal studies have shown that problems over how immuno-suppressant drugs work may not be as serious as anticipated. (Yahoo News -- Cosmetic Treatments and Surgery)
Bill Gates' millions to battle TB Nov 21, 2009
----------------- ----------------- RELATED BBC SITES. Last Updated: Thursday, 12 February, 2004, 22:34 GMT. (Yahoo News -- Tuberculosis)
What to Do About Endocrine Disruptors? A Q&A with Linda Birnbaum Nov 21, 2009
We re looking at many different targets the mammary gland, the prostate and immune and cardiovascular systems. Bisphenol A has often been called a weak estrogen. (Scientific American)
Bruce Mandelblit: Scammers Prey on Swine Flu Fears Nov 21, 2009
an electronic instrument whose sellers claim uses photobiotic energy and deeply penetrating mega-frequency life-force energy waves to strengthen the immune system and prevent symptoms associated with H1N1 viral infection. The FDA also announced what it found when it purchased and analyzed several products represented online as Tamiflu. (Newsmax)
Public swine flu clinic scheduled for today Nov 21, 2009
The health conditions covered include asthma, lung disease, heart disease, neurological and neuro-developmental conditions, diseases or medicines that weaken the immune system, and a variety of other disorders. Those seeking the vaccine should bring identification and be ready to discuss their immunization history, city officials say. (Anchorage Daily News)
Here are questions that deserve some answers Nov 21, 2009
pril wrote on Nov 19, 2009 5:59 AM:" 12% of the people who died from swine flu were seniors over 64. That's 12% out of 4000. What about the other 88%? They were mostly people under 40, pregnant women, and children. That's pretty much a U-turn of the usual flu statistics, where most of the deaths are seniors and the rest of us live through it. What these statistics say to me is that seniors have a better chance of getting through H1N1 than people 40 years younger than them as long as they're... (Klamath Falls Herald & News, OR)
Swine flu jabs 'still important' Nov 21, 2009
Dr Salmon, director of the National Public Health Service for Wales communicable disease surveillance centre, said the emergence of a Tamiflu-resistant strain was not unexpected in patients with serious underlying conditions and suppressed immune systems. He said: "This is a very special set of circumstances, and it remains to be seen whether this would actually happen out in the community, where most of the people you would meet would have perfectly normal immune systems. "One of the things... (BBC News -- UK)
Drug-resistant swine flu hits UK Nov 21, 2009
Dr Roland Salmon, director of the National Public Health Service for Wale's Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre, said: "The emergence of influenza A viruses that are resistant to Tamiflu is not unexpected in patients with serious underlying conditions and suppressed immune systems, who still test positive for the virus despite treatment. "In this case, the resistant strain of swine flu does not appear to be any more severe than the swine flu virus that has been circulating since April. " Dr... (BBC News -- UK)
Indigenous intervention Nov 21, 2009
Doctors say people with poor immune systems can die as strongyloides overwhelms the body. The time has come for the Rudd Government to take charge of existing indigenous medical services in the Territory, inject massive funding and implement radical change. (Sydney Morning Herald -- Opinion)
Profits prompt surge in new vaccines Nov 21, 2009
Unlike medicines that treat diseases, vaccines help prevent infections by revving up the body's natural immune defenses against invaders ... Today, five companies supply flu vaccine: GlaxoSmithKline, Switzerland's Novartis AG, Australia's CSL Biotherapies, MedImmune, part of Britain's AstraZeneca PLC, and France's Sanofi-Aventis SA.. (Honolulu Advertiser)
P&G recalls Vicks nasal spray after bacteria found Nov 21, 2009
He says the bacteria could harm people with chronic lung problems or weakened immune systems. advertisement. (MSNBC -- Health)
Prednisone and Prednisolone in Dogs... Nov 21, 2009
Prednisone and prednisolone also have powerful immunosuppressive effects and are commonly used to treat immune-mediated diseases ... The immunosuppressive nature of these drugs is used to treat conditions such as pemphigus, systemic lupus, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, certain forms of cancer and several other diseases. (Suite101.com)
Holy Basil or "Tulsi" Prevents Infe... Nov 21, 2009
However, others have sought protection from traditional medicine to boost their immune systems in addition to conventional health advisories issued by health authorities ... The biologically active compounds in Tulsi that acts directly or in synergy with other substances diet, or the body's own immune system are as follows ... Beta Carotene - Cox -2 Inhibitor, Cox - 1 inhibitor, Immunostimulant (stimulates the immune system). (Suite101.com)
Pap Tests: Another Revision of Recommendations Nov 21, 2009
However, women with HIV, previously abnormal Pap tests, or other problems that would suppress the immune system or increase the risk of aggressive cervical cancer may need more frequent screening ... Although the HPV infection rate is high among sexually active teens and young adults, the virus is typically cleared by the woman's immune system within a year or two of infection. (Time.com)
Burma engagement offers false hope Nov 21, 2009
This is a regime that is seemingly immune to pressure to change its ways and introduce political freedoms or human rights in a country that has been criminally lacking in both since 1962. The regime's primary concern is the perpetuation of its own power and wealth at the expense of ordinary Burmese. (Sydney Morning Herald -- Opinion)
Vaccines on horizon for AIDS, Alzheimer's, herpes Nov 21, 2009
Unlike medicines that treat diseases, vaccines help prevent infections by revving up the body's natural immune defenses against invaders ... Today, five companies supply flu vaccine: GlaxoSmithKline, Switzerland's Novartis AG, Australia's CSL Biotherapies, MedImmune, part of Britain's AstraZeneca PLC, and France's Sanofi-Aventis SA.. (Yahoo News -- Pharmaceutical Industry News)
Investigation lets Chi-Chi's staff off hook Nov 21, 2009
Many adults in Mexico are immune to hepatitis A because they were exposed to it as children. "Green onions are handled extensively at the time of harvest," she said. (Yahoo News -- Hepatitis)
Outbreak linked to cases in South Nov 21, 2009
Most Mexicans contract hepatitis A as children, meaning they are immune from it for life and cannot be carriers, he said. More than 80 percent of adults in developing countries have had hepatitis A as children, he said. (Yahoo News -- Hepatitis)
Inflammation Critical in Aortic Dissection, Researchers Find Nov 21, 2009
Playing host to a large number of cells meant for immune defense is bad news for an aorta already strained by an aneurysm, since activated white blood cells produce proteins that destabilize the structure of the vessel. At the same time, signals produced by the activated white blood cells encourage the blood vessel to generate more IL-6. (Science Daily)
Investigation lets Chi-Chi's staff off hook Nov 20, 2009
Many adults in Mexico are immune to hepatitis A because they were exposed to it as children. "Green onions are handled extensively at the time of harvest," she said. (Yahoo News -- Hepatitis)
H1N1 Flu Shot Clinic Open to All Nov 20, 2009
g., parents, siblings and daycare providers), persons 25-64 years who have medical conditions that put them at higher risk for influenza-related complications such as diabetes, asthma and other chronic lung disease, chronic heart disease, cancer, and other conditions that suppress the immune system. Since Sept. 1, 890 Oklahomans have been hospitalized due to complications from influenza and 27 have died. (Bartlesville Examiner-Enterprise, OK)
Bill Gates' millions to battle TB Nov 20, 2009
----------------- ----------------- RELATED BBC SITES. Last Updated: Thursday, 12 February, 2004, 22:34 GMT. (Yahoo News -- Tuberculosis)
Revealed: UK set for first face transplants Nov 20, 2009
It produced a report last year that concluded more research was needed to show that a new donor face transplanted on to a recipient would not be rejected by the body's immune system. New animal studies have shown that problems over how immuno-suppressant drugs work may not be as serious as anticipated. (Yahoo News -- Cosmetic Treatments and Surgery)
Just For The Health Of It- Chiropractors unite to feed Billericas hungry Nov 20, 2009
The direct link between maintaining the health of the spine and nervous system and the enhancement of the immune system is now indisputable. In a recent study reported in the Chiropractic Research Journal, HIV-positive patients, who received regular chiropractic care over a six-month period, experienced a 48 percent increase in production of immune system cells compared to those who did not receive spinal adjustments. (Billerica Minuteman, MA)
Long lines, heavy traffic mark flu clinic at Burlington High School Nov 20, 2009
and, Will you be in contact with anyone who has a compromised immune system such as someone with cancer. Those deemed eligible for either vaccine then went to a final table, where volunteer nurses administered the shots. (Burlington Union, MA)
* Chinas A(H1N1) death count suspect: report Nov 20, 2009
The A(H1N1) flu strain affects the respiratory tract and patients who become severely ill or die typically suffer from pneumonia, which is brought on either directly by the virus or because of secondary bacterial infections owing to the persons weakened immune system. Its irresponsible to treat these cases as ordinary pneumonia deaths, the newspaper quoted Zhong as saying. (Taipei Times, Taiwan -- World)
Genital Herpes May Never Go Dormant Nov 20, 2009
"Within their skin there is this constant battle going on within the virus and the immune system," Schiffer explained. Typically, patients are counseled to avoid having sex during an outbreak and to use a condom to prevent transmission when they are not having symptoms. (MEDLINEplus)
Outbreak linked to cases in South Nov 20, 2009
Most Mexicans contract hepatitis A as children, meaning they are immune from it for life and cannot be carriers, he said. More than 80 percent of adults in developing countries have had hepatitis A as children, he said. (Yahoo News -- Hepatitis)
OUR VIEW: Hospital's visitor age rule made to be broken Nov 20, 2009
Keeping youngsters away from patient areas not only keeps children, who are the largest part of the population with colds and similar ailments, away from patients who already are sick and often have compromised immune systems, but also helps distance younger people from those with illnesses that might be tougher for children to shake. Before this policy move, visitors had to be at least 12 to enter patient rooms or treatment areas. (Mattoon Journal-Gazette, IL)
Last-Resort Lower-Body Amputation Effective in Extreme Cases of Bone Infection, 25-Year Review Shows Nov 20, 2009
To lessen the impact of chemotherapy on bone marrow cancer patients, hematologists are recruiting the patients' own immune systems to help. White. (Science Daily)
Pain Drug May Speed Cancer Growth Nov 20, 2009
Prior lab studies by Singleton and colleague Jonathan Moss have shown that morphine can boost tumor cell growth and inhibit the immune response. They also found that opiates promote the growth of new blood vessels, a process called angiogenesis, and can make blood vessels leaky, which could increase the chances that tumor cells in the blood can spread in the body. (Newsmax)
AIDS, Malaria Eclipse the Biggest Child-Killers Nov 20, 2009
The children die from dehydration, weakened immune systems and malnutrition. Often they get sick from drinking dirty water. (Newsmax)
Vicks Nasal Spray Recalled After Bacteria Found Nov 20, 2009
He says the bacteria could harm people with chronic lung problems or weakened immune systems. Three lots of the spray sent to stores in the United States, Germany and the United Kingdom are being recalled. (KIRO TV, WA)
Morphine May Help Tumors Spread in Cancer Patients Nov 20, 2009
Morphine can increase tumor cell proliferation, inhibit the immune system, promote the growth of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) that feed tumors and decrease barrier function. In cancer patients undergoing surgery, decreased barrier function may make it easier for tumors to invade tissue and spread to other parts of the body, while increased angiogenesis helps tumors thrive in a new location. (MEDLINEplus)
Fruit: The secret weapon in parents' nutritional arsenal Nov 20, 2009
is naturally low in calories but high in nutrients like immune system boosting vitamin C, water and fiber, which helps children feel fuller and more energized with fewer calories. Federal dietary guidelines recommend five servings of fruit per day. (Rexburg Standard Journal, ID)
* BASE REACTION Nov 20, 2009
Furthermore, children from households with pets are found to have stronger immune systems and take fewer days off school. People with pets make fewer visits to the doctor X 21 percent less for elderly people. (Taipei Times, Taiwan -- World)
Government-run health care is a bad idea Nov 20, 2009
Jerome R. Kinderman wrote on Nov 19, 2009 7:53 AM:" The only problem is the "recommendation" came from a governmental agency. Is it just coincidence, or could this just be a precursor to what is to come. If nationalized healthcare becomes a reality, how long do you think it will take before such recommendations become policy? We need to pay close attention to these "little" changes in healthcare screenings as the overhaul moves forward.Sure, women might be able to go outside the plan to get the... (Lodi News Sentinel, CA)
Vaccines on horizon for AIDS, Alzheimer's, herpes Nov 20, 2009
Unlike medicines that treat diseases, vaccines help prevent infections by revving up the body's natural immune defenses against invaders ... Today, five companies supply flu vaccine: GlaxoSmithKline, Switzerland's Novartis AG, Australia's CSL Biotherapies, MedImmune, part of Britain's AstraZeneca PLC, and France's Sanofi-Aventis SA.. (Yahoo News -- Pharmaceutical Industry News)
Common Pain Relief Medication May Encourage Cancer Growth Nov 20, 2009
In laboratory studies, morphine can directly boost tumor-cell proliferation and inhibit the immune response. The researchers found that opiates also promote angiogenesis, the growth of new blood vessels, and decrease barrier function--effects that may exacerbate diseases involving vascular leakiness including acute lung injury in experimental models. (Science Daily)
Flu Vaccine Supplies Still Spotty Nov 20, 2009
The H1N1 vaccine has largely been directed toward the target population, including children, pregnant women and individuals with compromised immune systems. Clinics for seasonal flu vaccine were held at doctors' offices, drugstores and other businesses earlier this fall. (The Pilot Newspaper)
Valley Creek kids stuff Childrens toy chest Nov 20, 2009
Many patients have lowered immune systems vulnerable to the germs on used items. The only previously owned items collected are those expensive enough to warrant decontamination, such as video games and systems or DVDs. (McKinney Courier-Gazette, TX)
Preventing H1N1 spread to health care workers: Dilemma, debate and confusion Nov 20, 2009
Mermel points out five variables in preventing the transmission of the virus to HCWs: the dynamics of disease transmission; the availability of personal protective equipment (PPE); compliance among HCWs in the use of PPE; cost of PPE; and immune status of HCWs. He notes that in two studies, one already published and one recently presented at the Infectious Diseases Society of America Annual Meeting, researchers found no statistically significant reduction in influenza-like illness among HCWs... (EurekAlert!)
Mouse cloned to cure Parkinson's Nov 20, 2009
The advantage of using a cloned embryo is that the cells will be a perfect genetic match for the transplant recipient, removing the need for extra treatments to suppress the immune system. There are potential applications not just in Parkinson's disease, but in many other disease types as well. (Yahoo News -- Parkinson's Disease)
Cross-donor system planned for region's kidney patients Nov 20, 2009
Ross has faulted other approaches for discriminating against one group of patients in favor of another, but she said she's ''totally in favor" of Roth's system. The paired-exchange system comes 50 years after Dr. Joseph Murray carried out the nation's first kidney transplant at what is now Brigham and Women's Hospital, using a kidney taken from the patient's identical twin to avoid organ rejection. Today, in part to antirejection drugs, surgeons can often transplant kidneys between perfect... (Yahoo News -- Organ Donation & Transplants)
Tips from the Journals of the American Society for Microbiology Nov 20, 2009
Innate immune factors, antimicrobial peptides, skin-associated microbial species, and behavior are all believed to attribute to the survival of some species over others ... "We show that over one-half of individuals in nature support antifungal bacteria that produce violacein, which suggests that there is a mutualism between violacein-producing bacteria and P. cinereus and that adding J. lividum is effective for protecting individuals that lack violacein-producing skin bacteria. (M.H. Becker,... (EurekAlert!)
Holliston holds appointment-only H1N1 vaccine clinic Nov 20, 2009
The session is open to pregnant women, including those who have given birth in the last two weeks; adults who live with infants younger than 6 months; adults living with pregnant women in their third trimester; and adults ages 19 to 64 with a chronic medical condition or compromised immune systems. Only 275 doses are available. (Holliston Tab, MA)
