Stu's Views & M.S. News

MS LifeLines (R) - wants you to Eat Healthy this Holiday Season

2009-11-12T13:10:00.002-05:00

Thanksgiving is almost here; it's a time to pause and reflect on good times and positive experiences. But it can also be a stressful time, leaving you feeling overscheduled, overwhelmed and tempted to overindulge. We've got some ideas that may help, starting with some tips to help you eat healthy during the holidays.

What's Considered a Healthy Diet?

A healthy diet is one that is low in fat and includes plenty of grains, fruit and vegetables, as well as some high protein foods like meat or dairy. When possible, it's helpful to balance a healthy diet with physical activity. While there is no special diet for MS, try to maintain a balanced diet and avoid fad diets which typically give results that do not last over time.

Be sure to talk to your doctor before starting any nutrition or exercise program.

Don't Give in to Temptation

Eating nutritiously during the holidays can be extra challenging. The following tips may help.

	Understand your portions Portion sizes have dramatically increased over the years, so it's helpful to understand what a healthy portion looks like. It may help to make mental comparisons for certain foods—for instance, a healthy portion of lean meat should be roughly the same size as a deck of cards.
	Control your portions It takes 20 minutes before you start feeling full so try taking smaller portions and eating slower. You may find that by giving your body a chance to register food intake, less food on your plate may actually be enough!
	Plan ahead Eating a healthy snack before going to a party can help curb your appetite and limit indulging in more high-calorie foods.
	Don't skip meals to "make up" for extra calories eaten at parties. It can lead to overeating at other meals and deprives your body of the fuel it requires to function.
	Make low-fat substitutes like fresh fruit or yogurt instead of ice cream; turkey instead of ham for your holiday meal; precut veggies or pretzels instead of high fat hors d'oeuvres.

Get helpful hints on reducing holiday stress

Sincerely,

Your friends at MS LifeLines

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A Personal MS Chronologue on Stuart and the questions that need resolve

2009-11-12T10:01:00.006-05:00

Yes, Stu's Views and MS News is my blog. But how rare it is, that we (I) (the Royal WE) ever print anything concerning myself.

Many of you know, that I too have MS.. Yea that's right, Me. Many have wondered over the years and many just do not want to believe that this lives within me. Yes, I am always trying to do (often too much) and because I seem to push myself too hard, I often have setbacks. Some much worse than others. I am sure that many of you, living with MS, know what I am writing about.

I began using a cane much more often than not, several months ago and after an incident that lead to a wrist injury, I use this cane that much more. But why? What do I mean why? Yes, why am I comfortable with using a cane to go forward with my life. Why have I just accepted to use this, rather than try a medication that may allow me to not have to use this cane? Why has it been very difficult on me the last year thinking clearly and why have I just accepted this, as being MS?

Yes, WHY have I been just accepting everything? I did not do this when I was first diagnosed and the Neuro wanted me to wait until I worsened before beginning one of the ABC meds (there was no CRABS at that time, only A, B or C). Instead I found another Neurologist who told me how important it was that I did not worsen.

Is there something else out there, that I haven't yet tried, that might alleviate some of these problems? The answer is "maybe".

Maybe it's time that I begin a new medication. And so, after wrestling with this decision for the last (10) months, I am ready. This weekend, will begin a period in which I need to cleanse (washout) my body from my current therapy, that I have been using since 'it' became available for sale in 2002.

I am sure, that there are those who have already figured out my next step (by what I have written or from what they already know of me) ... I will try this medication for a year and hope that I have less problems from my Multiple Sclerosis and what it has been "Not allowing me to do".

My new therapy will begin just in time for the holiday season. This is the Gift, I am giving myself.

Your comments would be appreciated, whether leaving them on this blog page, or on the facebook page where this article ( like all others posted to my blog) are technologically fed.

My question should be: Why just accept, when there are options...

Have a GREAT DAY.

Stuart Schlossman

written: November 12, 2009

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End of Year Appeal for MS Views and News, Inc.

2009-11-12T09:18:00.006-05:00

The mission of MSV&N has been dedicated to the global collection and distribution of current information concerning Multiple Sclerosis. In collaboration with other organizations, we use state-of-the-art communication channels to provide information ( at no cost ) for those affected by or interested in MS. We do so through the generosity of private donors, family foundations, special events and corporate support.

Funding is needed primarily for the following:

Website Re-engineering Project
Blog and e-Newsletter re-engineering and Upkeep
Addition of Learning Webinars and video conferencing
Admininistrative costs to cover accounting and marketing fees

MS Views and News is unique in what we do to bridge the growing gap of information found from the various MS organizations and resource communities.Daily, posts are made to our blog to keep those in need of MS information up to date, relying on our sites for their information.

100% of the funds generated from our special events, grants, corporate gifts and planned giving go directly to supporting the vital services of MSV&N . Of course in today’s technological world, the need for our services is on the rise as people seem to have less time to search the internet and can simply rely on bookmarking the MS Views and News website and Blog for all their learning and resource needs of Multiple Sclerosis.

This is why we need to ensure that we have the funds to meet the needs of those who depend on the educational information we provide, by keeping our sites technologically up-to-date.

Your tax deductible contribution can be made either by clicking here to donate online thru our website or by sending a check to: MS Views and News, Inc. - 777 NW 72nd Ave. - * Suite 3005 * - Miami, Fl. 33126

Thank you for taking the time to review this message. I look forward to answering any questions that you may have about our services. You can write to me at: stuart@msviewsandnews.org

Have a great day!

Appreciatively,

Stuart Schlossman

Stuart Schlossman- RRMS

President and founder of:

MS Views and News, Inc.

MS Views and News is a 501©(3) organization as recognized by the Internal Revenue Service

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New Tools for Sharing and Advancing Medical Knowledge

2009-11-11T18:49:00.003-05:00

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (November 10, 2009) – The Medpedia Project today announced the addition of three new services on the beta version of the technology platform for the worldwide health community: Medpedia Answers for asking and answering medical and health questions; Medpedia Alerts for displaying real-time medical and health news alerts; and Medpedia News & Analysis for sharing medical news and analysis. These free resources are available today at www.medpedia.com.

Medpedia Answers collects questions and answers about health, medicine and the body. Each question is tagged with both MeSH and plain-English headings for better discovery. Each question is also pushed into relevant areas throughout the Medpedia Project such as patient communities and article pages. Questions and answers are for general information purposes only, not as a substitute for in-person evaluation or specific professional advice. Anyone with a profile on Medpedia can participate. The Medpedia Answers Top Contributors list gives recognition to the most active contributors.

Medpedia Alerts is a platform for aggregating and distributing health and medical news alerts. Organizations with real time alerts simply plug their feed into the platform -- joining other feeds such as the CDC, the Red Cross and the American Heart Association – to attract more readers who can subscribe to custom aggregated alerts feeds for free. In addition, any member of the Medpedia community can submit an alert in the Medpedia Alert Stream, or submit a website or Twitter account to be integrated into the platform on an ongoing basis. Submissions to the Alerts platform are reviewed by the community and if approved, are included in the appropriate Alert categories.

Click here to continue reading from their press release.

>> And then, see how each time I post something to this "Stu's Views & M.S. News" blog, it then technologically feeds to a "Stu's Views & M.S. News" page on the Medpedia site, by clicking here <<

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Myelin Repair Foundation Aims for First Phase 1 Clinical Trial in 2014

2009-11-11T18:07:00.003-05:00

November 10, 2009 – Saratoga, CA– The Myelin Repair Foundation today released its first five-year report that includes a new set of ambitious goals for the second 5 years of its myelin repair research program.

The Promises Made, Promises Kept report summarizes the MRF’s scientific achievements as well as its advances in demonstrating that its Accelerated Research Collaboration™ model has effectively accelerated the rate of target discovery.

Read their Goals and more, by clicking here

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Then, keep Informed with News and Information regarding Multiple Sclerosis. If not yet receiving the "Stu's Views and MS Related News", weekly M.S. e-newsletter, then please Click Here to register.

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How Many Days until the Holidays?

2009-11-11T16:17:00.006-05:00

Shmoozin' with Susan

By: Susan Dorne, OT

Written: November 11, 2009

Each year I am always amazed how quickly time goes by. Once again I’m asking myself “How Many Days until the Holidays? Didn’t we just finish shopping, having our dinners and going to parties? Well, here we go again!

Now is the time to get started. I thought I’d share some ideas to help conserve energy, simplify things and how to keep a calm mind!

Shopping….

For most people, shopping is preferred in stores. Although this can be challenging for some, there are ways to make it more manageable. Shop during the part of the day when your energy is at its best. The earlier you go, the less people there likely will be. Take into consideration weather, traffic and all that you have to do for that day. Space out what you need to do whether it’s shopping for gift, decorations, food, etc. so you don’t overdo it. You can also call the stores ahead of time to make sure items you want are available.

Continue reading Susan's perspective by clicking here

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Magnetic resonance imaging predictors of conversion to multiple sclerosis in the BENEFIT study

2009-11-11T14:45:00.001-05:00

Arch Neurol. 2009 Nov;66(11):1345-52.

Moraal B, Pohl C, Uitdehaag BM, Polman CH, Edan G, Freedman MS, Hartung HP, Kappos L, Miller DH, Montalban X, Lanius V, Sandbrink R, Barkhof F.

Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Multiple Sclerosis Center Amsterdam, Vrije University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands. b.moraal@vumc.nl

BACKGROUND: Several studies have confirmed the predictive value of baseline and follow-up magnetic resonance (MR) imaging variables for conversion to clinically definite multiple sclerosis (CDMS), depending on the population, follow-up duration, and treatment intervention. However, the timing of follow-up imaging and the effect of treatment intervention on the predictive value of baseline MR imaging variables require further elucidation.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the prognostic value of baseline MR imaging variables for conversion to CDMS over 3 years and whether this was affected by treatment intervention and (2) to assess the increased risk for conversion posed by dissemination in time on follow-up MR imaging. DESIGN: Cohort study.

SETTING: Multicenter randomized clinical trial. PATIENTS: Four hundred sixty-eight patients with a clinically isolated syndrome who had an initial clinical demyelinating event within the past 60 days who received early treatment (3 years of interferon beta-1b) or delayed treatment (placebo first, followed by > or =1 year of interferon beta-1b). Intervention Magnetic resonance imaging. Main Outcome Measure Time to CDMS.

RESULTS: The overall conversion rate to CDMS was 42%. Barkhof criteria with the strongest prognostic value were the presence at baseline of at least 9 T2-weighted lesions (hazard ratio [HR], 1.64; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.15-2.33; P = .006) and at least 3 periventricular lesions (1.66; 1.14-2.41; P = .009). No specific advantage was noted in using a fixed cutoff of at least 3 Barkhof criteria (HR, 1.31; 95% CI, 0.95-1.79; P = .10). The prognostic value of all MR imaging criteria was unaffected by treatment intervention (P > or = .20 for all). Dissemination in time resulted in increased risk for CDMS only in patients without dissemination in space at baseline and was most informative at the 9-month MR imaging (HR, 2.72; 95% CI, 1.26-5.87; P = .01).

CONCLUSIONS: The modified Barkhof criteria showed moderate predictive value for conversion to CDMS, although all patients had received interferon beta-1b therapy for at least 1 year. The predictive value was unaffected by treatment intervention. Follow-up MR imaging was most informative after 9 months in patients without dissemination in space at baseline.

PMID: 19901165 [PubMed - in process]

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Barrier-free living environment for persons with disabilities -

2009-11-11T14:24:00.005-05:00

The information found below might benefit those living with a disability in the State of Florida. I only write Florida, because this is where this company exists. I would think that for those living outside of Florida, that similar services might be available.

Housing and Assistive Technology, Inc. (HAT) provides design solutions for independent living. Home modifications are essential to provide a barrier-free living environment for persons with disabilities (of all ages and disabilities) and senior citizens.

This site features examples of accessible bathrooms, kitchens, entrances, plus assistive technology solutions for independent living. Feel free to contact us for more information on how we can assist you. Funding sources are available for eligible and qualified home owners.

Click here for more information.

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Do cannabinoids reduce multiple sclerosis-related spasticity?

2009-11-11T14:20:00.000-05:00

Source: PubMed.gov - Neurologist. 2009 Nov;15(6):369-71.

Thaera GM, Wellik KE, Carter JL, Demaerschalk BM, Wingerchuk DM.

Departments of Neurology, and daggerLibrary Services, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ 85259, USA.

BACKGROUND: The plant Cannabis sativa contains numerous cannabinoids, which are aromatic hydrocarbons that have central nervous system effects mediated through specific cannabinoid receptors. Some patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) report symptomatic relief from spasticity, pain, and other symptoms when using smoked cannabis, and small trials have suggested some symptomatic benefit.

OBJECTIVE: Do cannabinoids improve spasticity in patients with MS?

METHODS: We addressed the question through the development of a structured, critically appraised topic. Participants included consultant and resident neurologists, clinical epidemiologists, medical librarian, and clinical content experts in the field of MS. Participants started with a clinical scenario and a structured question, devised search strategies, located and compiled the best evidence, performed a critical appraisal, synthesized the results, summarized the evidence, provided commentary, and declared bottom-line conclusions.

RESULTS: The largest randomized, placebo-controlled trial of oral cannabinoid therapy detected no improvement for MS-related spasticity as measured by the Ashworth scale. However, subjective participant reports indicated improvement in spasticity (P = 0.01), spasms (P = 0.038), sleep quality (P = 0.025), and pain (P = 0.002) without detriment to depression, fatigue, irritability, or walk time. A second randomized controlled trial, which used subjective participant report as the primary outcome, revealed the same discrepancy between subjective and objective spasticity outcome measures.

CONCLUSION: Randomized controlled trials have failed to confirm objective evidence for a beneficial effect of cannabinoids on MS-related spasticity. However, improvement in subjective assessments of spasticity and other related symptoms have been consistently noted, raising questions about the sensitivity and validity of current objective outcome instruments. Further research is warranted with regards to both outcome instrument development and the effects of cannabinoids on MS-related spasticity.

PMID: 19901724 [PubMed - in process]

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A Photo Essay of Multiple Sclerosis

2009-11-11T13:26:00.002-05:00

Wednesday November 11, 2009
By Julie Stachowiak, Ph.D., About.com Guide to Multiple Sclerosis

Ms. Lay Dorsey has been living with primary progressive multiple sclerosis since 1988. Like many of us with MS, the disease not only resulted in physical symptoms, but started to do something even more evil - it made her feel less beautiful and ashamed. Instead of covering up her flaws, she fought back by looking at them more closely through a camera lens. Now she is sharing them with the world and guess what? Those "flaws" are no longer flaws, but elements in a composition, beauty in the way that they reveal this person's soul.

By opening up herself like this, Ms. Lay Dorsey gives us the chance to take a good honest look at ourselves, to not only look beyond the MS, but also to look at our MS straight on. By the end of looking at her photo essay, I can say that I felt calm. I thought about my own MS and felt a little less anger and a little more tolerance with my body that is turning on itself.

I hope others, those living without MS, can take a look at this essay and see what it is in themselves that they need to come to peace with, then take a step towards doing just that. I get the feeling that that is the point of the whole project, really, rather than giving "insight" into what it is like to live with this disease.

As Ms. Lay Dorsey herself says, "People will see us as either terribly inspiring or terribly pathetic. We're either super gimps or just tragic. The fact is we're not either one. We're human beings and we're just living life. Doing the best we can. Everyone has challenges of one kind or another. It just so happens that mine are more visible than others'."

Stuart Schlossman would like to thank Julie Stachowiak, for providing this information
.
Have something to share with others? If so, please use the post comment link found below. Your name and email address would be appreciated but is not necessary unless you want a response from others. Thank You
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Clearing Up the Confusion - concerning the H1N1 Vaccine and Multiple Sclerosis

2009-11-11T13:06:00.002-05:00

Clearing Up the Confusion

By Julie Stachowiak, Ph.D., About.com

Created: November 10, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

As many have read, I am strongly advocating that people with MS get the H1N1 and seasonal flu vaccines, as many of us have decreased lung function that makes us susceptible to pneumonia, which is the biggest risk associated with infection from the H1N1 virus.

In response to my last blog post about the H1N1 vaccine for people with MS, I got the following comment: “I am hoping that the person you are responding to does not take one of the current 5 choices of medicines to help control their MS. As I am sure you are aware they work by keeping the immune system busy and therefore not attacking your own body. If they are on one of these treatments, then yes they do have a weakened immune system.”

Well, kind of, but not exactly. I will try to clarify the role of some of the drugs that people with MS might be on and what is means in terms of the H1N1 and seasonal flu vaccines.

NOTE: This article is NOT meant to replace the advice of your primary care physician or neurologist. You should discuss your decision to get a flu shot (or not) with your physician.

Continue to read (from the fifth paragraph) to learn who (using which MS medication) really should, who need to wait and/or who can, get the flu shot.

Stuart suggests that you read the entire article and speak with your primary physician.

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NEUROLOGÍA - Anticuerpos monoclonales para tratar la esclerosis múltiple, toda una revolución

2009-11-10T17:42:00.002-05:00

Esclerosis múltiple

La esclerosis múltiple sigue siendo una de esas enfermedades que no logra controlarse al 100%. Nos encontramos ante una patología cuya causa aún se desconoce, y que presenta unas manifestaciones imprevisibles y diferentes según cada paciente. Sin embargo, en los últimos años se ha logrado obtener un tipo de fármaco que no solo logra que la discapacidad producida por la enfermedad no progrese, sino que consigue mejorar el estado de algunos pacientes. La doctora Montserrat Gonzalez Platas, neuróloga del Hospital Universitario de Canarias, nos amplía la información sobre esta nueva farmacología que ha constituído una auténtica revolución en cuanto a esta enfermedad neurológica.

El tratamiento farmacológico para la esclerosis múltiple que se presenta como novedad se basa en los anticuerpos monoclonales. Un anticuerpo monoclonal es un anticuerpo fabricado a raíz de una molécula, que suele ser una proteína, que actúa como los anticuerpos naturales del individuo que, por culpa de la enfermedad, no funcionan como deberían. Es decir, que la industria reproduce en forma de fármaco la función natural del propio organismo. El descubrimiento de este tipo de anticuerpos ha sido todo un logro porque ha ayudado a comprender mejor la enfemedad, qué mecanismos pueden desencadenarla, al mismo tiempo que ayuda a bloquear los descontroles funcionales que provoca.

>>Continuár<<

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Men Leave: Separation And Divorce Far More Common When The Wife Is The Patient

2009-11-10T14:21:00.005-05:00

For those that know me and have heard me speak; have often heard me say the same (unfortunate) thing (as what you read below). --Maybe not have said the exact wording, but the same context. - --Stuart Schlossman

ScienceDaily (Nov. 10, 2009) — A woman is six times more likely to be separated or divorced soon after a diagnosis of cancer or multiple sclerosis than if a man in the relationship is the patient, according to a study that examined the role gender played in so-called "partner abandonment." The study also found that the longer the marriage the more likely it would remain intact.

The study confirmed earlier research that put the overall divorce or separation rate among cancer patients at 11.6 percent, similar to the population as a whole. However, researchers were surprised by the difference in separation and divorce rates by gender. The rate when the woman was the patient was 20.8 percent compared to 2.9 percent when the man was the patient.

"Female gender was the strongest predictor of separation or divorce in each of the patient groups we studied," said Marc Chamberlain, M.D., a co-corresponding author and director of the neuro-oncology program at the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance (SCCA). Chamberlain is also a professor of neurology and neurosurgery at the University of Washington School of Medicine.

Click here to continue reading from the (4th) paragraph

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"MS Views and News" is asking You for a 2009 end of year, contribution

2009-11-09T14:24:00.010-05:00

Our Mission: MS Views and News is dedicated to the global collectionand distribution of current information concerning Multiple Sclerosis.In collaboration with other organizations, MS Views and News usesstate-of-the-art communication channels to provide information for those affected by, or interested in MS.

November 09, 2009

Dear Friends,

It is with great satisfaction that "MS Views and News" has grown to reach people from all over the world. This unique organization provides information from numerous resources and organizations to link and educate the MS community. Currently, our weekly e-newsletter is reaching e-recipients in (57) Countries.

As you are probably aware of, in order to continue to provide these services we can't do it alone. This is where you can help now and in the future.

We respectfully ask for a tax deductible donation, of any size, that will go directly to the operating expense of the organization. These expenses include internet and web-based fees.

For your convenience, donations can easily be made at : msviewsandnews/donate by Credit Card, PayPal, or check.

Your contribution will play a vital part in helping us reach our ongoing financial goals and ensure that our online educational work continues.

We look forward to serving you in the coming year.

With Sincere Gratitude,

The Staff of: MS Views and News

p.s. - with 2009 coming to a close, we ask you to consider your end-of-year contribution, be provided to help us do what we do best in providing an educational component.

MS Views and News is a Not-for-Profit 501©(3) Organization

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Is the H1N1 vaccination safe for those with multiple sclerosis?

2009-11-09T12:01:00.003-05:00

source: MastersofMS.com

In your opinion, is the H1N1 vaccination safe for those with multiple sclerosis?

The National MS Society and our clinic recommend influenza vaccinations, as well as other routine vaccinations, for people with multiple sclerosis.

Vaccination does not influence the onset of multiple sclerosis. In a study of 440 people with MS published in 2003, the risk of having MS was not influenced by prior immunizations. There was no increase in MS in those receiving vaccinations anytime in the past, within the past one to five years, or within the past year. Vaccinations for hepatitis B, influenza, tetanus, measles, and rubella were studied.

Similarly, vaccination does not cause attacks in those already diagnosed with MS. In a large European study, vaccination in the past one, two or three months was not associated with an increased risk of MS attacks. This study looked at tetanus, hepatitis B and influenza vaccines. In a smaller study of 104 subjects with MS, those who received influenza vaccination had the same rate of MS attacks in the following six weeks as those receiving placebo. There is no evidence that tetanus, hepatitis B, or influenza vaccines cause MS attacks.

Those who are not vaccinated have an increased risk of getting the flu.

Continue reading by clicking here

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After reading the above article, come back here to register at the "MS Views and News" website. Registering at our website, will enable you to stay up to date each week with MS news. Click here. - Thank You

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Curb cuts too steep for wheelchair

2009-11-09T07:59:00.001-05:00

This is an important topic found in many places around the world...

November 8, 2009 By GWEN YOUNG AND MICHAEL R. EBERT gwen.young@newsday.com, michael.ebert@newsday.com

In the Village of Northport, there are several sidewalk curb cuts in the downtown area that are dangerously steep for someone like me, who must use a wheelchair. They're at such a sharp angle that if I tried to navigate them, my wheelchair would tip backwards and fall over. I've been asking village officials for the past 10-12 years that I have been using a wheelchair, as a result of multiple sclerosis to fix the curb cuts, so that I can remain as independent as possible, but there have been no changes.

- Tamar Sherman, Northport

Granted, there are structural obstacles (like a storm drain and manhole cover) and other obstructions that need to be addressed before the curb cut problem can be fixed, but we can't imagine why the village hasn't moved on this issue sooner. Elected officials have come and gone in the past decade, but the dangerous curb cuts haven't been touched.

Continue to read from Newsday.com

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Teenage obesity link to future MS

2009-11-09T07:56:00.000-05:00

Monday November 9, 2009

Being obese as a teenager may be linked with an increased risk of multiple sclerosis as an adult, researchers say.

A 40-year study of 238,000 women found those who were obese at 18 had twice the risk of developing MS compared to women who were slimmer at that age.

Yet body size during childhood or adulthood was not found to be associated with MS risk, the US researchers report in Neurology.

But an MS charity warned more research was needed to confirm the findings.

continue to read this from the BBC

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La obesidad durante la adolescencia duplica el riesgo de esclerosis múltiple

2009-11-09T07:43:00.001-05:00

MADRID, 9 Nov. (EUROPA PRESS) -

Las chicas adolescentes que están obesas podrían ser el doble de propensas a desarrollar esclerosis múltiple de adultas, según un estudio de la Escuela de Salud Pública de Harvard en Boston (Estados Unidos) que se publica en la revista 'Neurology'.

En la investigación participaron 238.371 mujeres del Estudio de Salud de las enfermeras y su segunda fase que tenían entre 25 y 55 años. Las mujeres respondieron a un cuestionario sobre su salud e información médica cada dos años. Durante el transcurso de 40 años, 593 de ellas desarrollaron esclerosis múltiple.

Para Continuar, clíque aquí

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Texans for Stem Cell Research

2009-11-08T08:14:00.002-05:00

Preston W. provided me with this website: Texans for Stem Cell research - http://www.txstemcell.org/

Preston has undergone stem cell therapy and appears to be doing better than before this form of therapy, not yet approved in the USA.

Read more of Preston and others that have had Adult Stem Cell Therapy at: http://adultstemcelltherapy.ning.com/

(this link is provided on this blog page for future reference)

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MS Related: Biogen Updates Tysabri Label To Reflect Risk With Longer Use

2009-11-07T18:37:00.003-05:00

November 6, 2009

By Thomas Gryta, Of DOW JONES NEWSWIRES

NEW YORK -(Dow Jones)- Biogen Idec Inc. (BIIB) amended the U.S. label of multiple sclerosis treatment Tysabri, sold with Elan Corp. PLC (ELN), on Friday to reflect that the risk of a rare brain infection rises with longer usage.

The changes, which were expected, note that the occurrence of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, or PML, in patients treated for 24 to 36 months is "generally similar" to the 1-in-1,000 rate seen in clinical trials. The changes warn that there is limited experience with the drug beyond three years of treatment.

Lazard Capital Markets' analyst Joel Sendek said the changes appeared to be benign.

"We do not expect physicians to significantly change their Tysabri prescribing habits in the near-term," Sendek said in a research note. He continues to project 2010 Tysabri sales of $1.1 billion.

Biogen had previous said it was discussing a label change with the Food and Drug Administration to include duration-related risk, but some on Wall Street had feared it would include suggestion for duration limits, or taking a " holiday" from treatment.

Barclays Capital analyst Jim Birchenough wrote Friday that he believes the new label will ultimately slow sales growth of the drug.

Aside from duration information, the updated label includes details on using plasma-exchange therapy, which removes large molecules from the body's blood circulation, thereby accelerating removal of Tysabri and theoretically improving the immune response to PML infection.

It also explains that inflammation of the rebuilding of the immune system can occur following discontinuation of Tysabri in patients with PML.

Continue reading this article at Nasdaq.com

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Real-Time Observation Sheds New Light On Multiple Sclerosis

2009-11-06T16:41:00.002-05:00

In diseases such as multiple sclerosis, cells of the immune system infiltrate the brain tissue, where they cause immense damage. For many years, it was an enigma as to how these cells can escape from the bloodstream. This is no trivial feat, given that specialized blood vessels act as a barrier between the nervous system and the bloodstream. Until now, tissue sections provided the sole evidence that the immune cells really do manage to reach the nerve cells. Now, a team of scientists from the Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology, the University Medical Center Göttingen, and other institutes, has witnessed the movements of these cells "live" under the microscope for the very first time. In the process, they discovered several new behavioural traits of the immune cells. The consolidated findings mark a significant step forward in our understanding of this complex disease. (Nature, 14 October 2009)

The brain and the spinal cord monitor and control the functions of all body parts and co-ordinate the whole organism's movements, senses and behaviour. Adequate protection of the brain and spinal cord are therefore of the utmost importance. Physical influences and injuries are warded off by the cranial bone and the vertebral column. Dangers lurking within the body, such as viruses circulating in the bloodstream, are kept at bay by highly specialized blood vessels. The vessels' walls form a barrier that cannot be penetrated by the cells or various other small particles, thus serving to protect the delicate nerve cells.

There are, however, exceptions to the rule. In diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS), aggressive cells in the immune system manage to break through the blood vessels' barrier. Having invaded the brain tissue, these cells wreak havoc by triggering off inflammatory reactions and attacking nerve cells. In Germany alone, the resulting adverse effects afflict over 120,000 MS-patients.

>>> CLICK to Continue to Read : Tracking down the culprits, Observing aggressive cells in action and more

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Hormones, Gender and MS

2009-11-06T12:02:00.001-05:00

MS LEARN ONLINE PRESENTS

Today's new Feature Presentation:

Hormones, Gender and MS

featuring Nancy Sicotte, MD

This two-part video webcast series explores:

Pregnancy
Menopause
Gender
Testosterone
Hormone therapy

Click here to view the webcasts, or

copy into your browser:

http://www.nationalmssociety.org/multimedia-library/webcasts--podcasts/hormones-gender-and-ms/index.aspx

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Flu Vaccines—2009-2010 - Information for those with Multiple Sclerosis

2009-11-06T11:44:00.003-05:00

Source National MS Society and the CDC - November 3, 2009

Regular flu shot: As in previous years, the National MS Society recommends a regular flu shot as a safe and effective vaccination for people with MS. The flu shot—which is a de-activated or “killed” vaccine—can safely be taken by individuals who are on any of the disease-modifying medications (Avonex®, Betaseron®, Copaxone®, Rebif®, Novantrone®, or Tysabri®).

FluMist Intranasal®: In 2003, the FDA approved a flu vaccine nasal spray “for healthy children and adolescents, ages 5-17, and healthy adults, ages 18-49.” According to Dr. Aaron Miller, the Society’s Chief Medical Officer, FluMist—which is a live, weakened vaccine—is not recommended for use by people with MS, and should specifically be avoided by any person with MS who is on an immunosuppressive medication such as mitoxantrone (Novantrone®), cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan®), azathioprine (Imuran®), or methotrexate.
• Live-virus vaccines are more likely than de-activated-virus vaccines to cause an increase in disease activity in people with MS.
• A person taking an immunosuppressive medication is more susceptible to developing an infection with the vaccine strain of the virus—an infection that may be particularly severe because the person’s immune system is suppressed.
• The interactions between live vaccines and the disease-modifying medications are not known.

H1N1 (Swine Flu) vaccine: On September 15, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved four vaccines for the H1N1 flu virus. The vaccines are manufactured using similar processes by four different companies. An adult over the age of nine being vaccinated against H1N1 influenza will receive one dose of one of these vaccines. Children under nine will receive two doses.

Three of the H1N1 vaccines are de-activated or “killed” vaccines that are administered by injection. These de-activated vaccines are considered safe for people with MS. One is a live, attenuated vaccine that is administered by nasal spray. The live, nasal spray vaccine, which is now available in some areas, should be avoided by individuals with MS. The supply of de-activated vaccine remains very limited.

Clearly, the initial supply of H1N1 vaccine will not be adequate to vaccinate everyone who would like to get it. The CDC has identified five groups to receive the vaccination on a priority basis:
o Pregnant women
o Persons who live with or provide care for infants under 6 months of age
o Healthcare and emergency services personnel
o Children and young adults aged 6 months to 24 years of age
o Persons aged 25-64 who have medical conditions that put them at higher risk for influenza-related complications.

It is important to note that people with disabilities (including people with MS) are not necessarily considered by the CDC to be part of this high-priority group.

However:
 The flu virus (like any other virus) can precipitate MS exacerbations.

 A person with advanced MS or someone with less severe disease (Kurtzke less than 6.0) who has reduced pulmonary function or has any difficulty with breathing is considered at risk for complications and a good candidate for the H1N1 vaccine.

We recommend that people talk with their MS doctor to determine if they are a good candidate for the de-activated H1N1 vaccine.

continue reading this article

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Plasmapheresis and MS

2009-11-06T11:42:00.000-05:00

Plasmapheresis is a process involving the following steps:

Whole blood is withdrawn from the person.
The liquid portion or plasma is removed from the blood and replaced.
The blood, with all its red and white blood cells, is transfused back into the person.

This process is a successful method for treating autoimmune diseases such as myasthenia gravis and Guillain-Barré syndrome, because it removes the circulating antibodies that are thought to be responsible for these diseases.

It is not clear whether plasmapheresis is of benefit in the short- or long-term treatment of MS, and its use in MS remains controversial.

Because MS may also involve an autoimmune process—where the body is attacked by its own immune system—and because demyelinating factors have been found in plasma from MS patients, plasmapheresis has been tried as a treatment for MS.

Mixed Results in Progressive Forms of MS

continue reading this from the source, the National MS Society

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MS Related - Crossing the line: how aggressive cells invade the brain

2009-11-05T15:09:00.002-05:00

November 5, 2009 - Eureka Alerts

In diseases such as multiple sclerosis, cells of the immune system infiltrate the brain tissue, where they cause immense damage. For many years, it was an enigma as to how these cells can escape from the bloodstream. This is no trivial feat, given that specialized blood vessels act as a barrier between the nervous system and the bloodstream. Until now, tissue sections provided the sole evidence that the immune cells really do manage to reach the nerve cells. Now, a team of scientists from the Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology, the University Medical Center Göttingen, and other institutes, has witnessed the movements of these cells "live" under the microscope for the very first time. In the process, they discovered several new behavioural traits of the immune cells. The consolidated findings mark a significant step forward in our understanding of this complex disease. (Nature, 14 October 2009)

The brain and the spinal cord monitor and control the functions of all body parts and co-ordinate the whole organism's movements, senses and behaviour. Adequate protection of the brain and spinal cord are therefore of the utmost importance. Physical influences and injuries are warded off by the cranial bone and the vertebral column. Dangers lurking within the body, such as viruses circulating in the bloodstream, are kept at bay by highly specialized blood vessels. The vessels' walls form a barrier that cannot be penetrated by the cells or various other small particles, thus serving to protect the delicate nerve cells.

Click here to continue to read or to watch a video of this subject

re: the video: The film shows in real time how the green labeled T-cells creep along the inside walls of blood vessels before single cells force their way through the vessels' walls and...

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