Los Angeles, CA, January 11, 2021 — Is there a science to survival, or are some people simply born with elastic emotional exoskeletons that bounce back readily following even the most traumatic of experiences?
To uncover the answer, world-renown expert on disasters and trauma Dr. Randall Bell undertook unprecedented research, juxtaposing outcomes of scientific studies with stories of real people who have not just survived, but have used their trauma as their fuel to thrive to uncover common denominators. He shares his remarkable insights in his new book, Post-Traumatic Thriving: The Art, Science, & Stories of Resilience.
Dr. Bell sits down with survivors of the Holocaust; murder-victim’s families; crime victims; suicide survivors; and those who’ve experienced homelessness, disasters, addictions, depression, death, divorce, disabilities, defeats and disease to explore the rare mindset of the post-traumatic thriver.
He shares with readers stories of remarkable resilience, including the following:
• A deaf man with a glass eye invented the electric guitar and became a household name, remarkably wealthy and most importantly, happy.
• A convicted murderer took responsibility for the damage he caused, graduated with honors from college, became a minister and turned around the hearts of the most hardened criminals.
• A girl born with cerebral palsy landed the world’s first starring role on national television and spoke at the White House three times.
• A woman hid in a basement for years and lost her entire family in the Holocaust. She eventually found true love and paints stunning artwork.
• The sister of a murder victim helped millions of women in toxic domestic relationships.
• A woman’s car crash resulted in an addiction to prescription drugs, a divorce, a loss of her children and a cot in a homeless shelter. She has rebuilt it all back and more.
• A man set to go to the Olympics had his hopes dashed by Jimmy Carter and went on to build a worldwide business empire.
Ultimately, Dr. Bell documents the science of happiness, as well as the individual styles and common thread that all post-traumatic thrivers have to emerge with a fulfilling life. When trauma hits, your most significant decision will be to dive, survive or thrive. If you choose to thrive, this book is for you.
As an economist, Dr. Randall Bell has consulted on more disasters on earth than anyone in history and is widely considered the world’s top authority in the field of post-traumatic thriving. His clients include the Federal Government, State Governments, International Tribunals, major corporations and homeowners. Dr. Bell believes that “the problem is not the problem — the problem is how we react to the problem.”
Often called the “Master of Disaster,” Dr. Bell is squarely focused on authentic recovery and resilience. His research has been profiled on major television shows and featured in numerous magazines and the international media. More information can be found at www.posttraumaticthriving.com.
Post-Traumatic Thriving: The Art, Science, & Stories of Resilience
Award-Winning Parma! Vegan Parmesan Offers Cheese Lovers A Delectably Nutritious Range of Dairy-Free, Protein-Rich Condiments Ideal For Main Dishes, Salads, Pizza & More!
Parma! Debuts Bold New Website As Company Continues Major Expansion
MEDFORD, OREGON, DECEMBER 25, 2020 - With just the right condiment, a plain salad becomes a festival of flavors, a plate of vegetables transforms into a delectable stroll through a country garden, and an ordinary bowl of pasta becomes a savory work of art. And perhaps no condiment covers as many different foods and as many different cultures as classic Italian Parmesan cheese.
Unfortunately, for vegans or anyone following a dairy-free and/or calorie-conscious diet, parmesan cheese has always been not only off limits but one of the most difficult of life’s little indulgences to forego. If only someone, somewhere, could create a non-dairy parmesan cheese alternative so authentically delectable that even the most discerning cheese lovers would never miss its conventional counterpart ever again!
Well, luckily for countless millions of us, someone has. Welcome to the next revolution within the booming vegan cheese category – Parma!
Created in Oregon just over 15 years ago by Sister River Foods’ founder Shannon Schnibbe (Tofurky founder Seth Tibbott is an ongoing Advisor), Parma! was established in response to a rapidly-growing need within the vegetarian marketplace for a breakthrough allergen-free parmesan alternative.
Comprised of four deliciously distinct varieties – including Better Than Bacon Parma! –voted Favorite Bacon-Flavored Product in 2017 by VegNews magazine – Parma! is a plant-based umami superfood line of convenient and affordable products that are Paleo and Keto-friendly, a complete protein, dairy-free, soy-free, gluten-free, non-GMO and Certified Kosher.
In addition, all four raw nut and seed-based Parma! flavors contain whole raw ingredients, are low in sodium, heart-healthy, packed with essential B vitamins and trace minerals, replete with beneficial animo acids and an excellent source of healthy oils.
A World Of Flavor
Available in health stores nationwide as well as on the brand new www.eatparma.com site, Amazon, VitaCost and other online retailers, Parma! is ideal for environmentally conscious consumers, vegans, vegetarians, flexitarians and all health conscious eaters. Unlike some other vegan cheese alternatives, Parma! has also proven highly appealing to mainstream cheese aficionados who are ready to eschew traditional cheese so long as a healthier option boasting authentic flavor, aroma and texture is available.
Sold in 3.5 and 7-ounce bottles, Parma! can be savored on pasta, lightly steamed vegetables, pizza, salads, potatoes, avocado toast, popcorn and countless other hor d'oeuvres, main dishes and desserts. For suggested recipes, please visit https://eatparma.com/cat egory/recipes/.
Parma! varieties include:
Original Parma! – Featuring an irresistiblycheesey umami flavor. Ingredients: Nutritional Yeast, Organic SunflowerSeeds, Walnuts, Himalayan Crystal Salt, Organic Hemp Seeds.
Better Than Bacon Parma! – Voted Favorite Bacon FlavoredProduct by VegNews and featuring a smokey cheesey umami bacon flavor. Ingredients: Nutritional Yeast, Organic Sunflower Seeds, Walnuts, Ground Paprika, Organic Dried Onion, Natural Flavor, Organic Brown Sugar, Himalayan Crystal Salt, Smoked Salt, Organic Hemp Seeds.
Chipotle Cayenne Parma! – Blessed with a smokey umami flavor akin to the most popular barbeque potato chips, with a slight cayenne kick at the end. Ingredients: Nutritional Yeast, Organic SunflowerSeeds, Walnuts, Organic Ground Chipotle Pepper, Himalayan Crystal Salt, Organic Hemp Seeds, Organic Onion Powder, Organic Ground Cayenne Pepper.
Garlicky Green Parma! – Distinguished by acheesey umami Italian herb flavour complemented by nutritiously delicious kelp, pumpkin and sesame seeds. Ingredients: Nutritional Yeast, Organic SunflowerSeeds, Walnuts, Organic Pumpkin Seeds, OrganicDried Garlic, Himalayan Crystal Salt, Organic Hemp Seeds, Organic Sesame Seeds, Organic Kelp Powder, Organic Dried Basil, Organic Dried Oregano.
For parmesan lovers in Europe (in other words – just about everyone!), Parma! also offers a specially branded line called Shake! Original featuring a mouth-wateringly cheesey umami flavor and such ingredients as nutritional yeast, raw organic sunflower seeds, raw walnuts, raw organic pumpkin seeds, raw organic hemp seeds, and Himalayan crystal salt.
Parma! is expected to introduce a bold new line of products to the U.S. marketplace later this year.
Only The Beginning
Founded in 2004, Parma! has steadily grown to its current status as a leader in the dairy-free cheese alternative arena and a key player in the multi-billion-dollar global vegan food category.
Looking back on the origins of the Parma! brand, Sister River Foods’ co-founder and CEO Shannon Schnibbe recalls that it all started as the result of her severe allergies and effort to find foods that might give her relief. Introduced to raw foods, she was soon inspired to begin making what is now Parma! for herself, friends and family. After moving to Oregon and becoming pregnant with her first baby, she decided to combine her passion for healthy eating with her corporate experience and turn her hobby into an actual business. The vegan parmesan revolution had begun!
Today, Shannon takes special pride not only in the rave reviews, industry honors, new distribution channels and increased sales Parma! has enjoyed in recent years, but in her brand’s ability to provide a more nutritious yet equally delicious alternative for those who have been missing out on one of life’s true culinary pleasures – parmesan cheese.
According to Tofurky founder Seth Tibbott, "Like Tofurky, Parma is an authentic, trailblazing brand with deep roots that took hold when the plant-based world was very young. I love that it is a family owned business run by kind, passionate people producing a wholesome vegan food with exceptional flavor."
Adds Shannon, “Parma! gives you that cheesey flavor without all the dairy baggage. It provides an excellent food source of high-quality vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, omega 3’s and trace minerals, along with the natural goodness of hemp, and it tastes great! We’re deeply grateful for the exceptionally warm reception our brand has received from consumers and industry leaders since our very first days on the market and look forward to continuing to shake up the dairy-free industry for many, many years to come.”
###
Expert Speaker and Brain Health Doctor Addresses Worsening Pandemic-Related Mental Challenges
Chattanooga, TN, January 6, 2021 ― Forced social isolation and shuttered businesses have led to an alarming rise in anxiety, depression, suicide and other mental health challenges. As we search for a clear path toward physical and mental recovery, one world-renowned doctor is uniquely poised to address the very serious subject of brain health from both scientific and spiritual perspectives — a much needed and welcomed approach during these extremely distressing times.
Timothy R. Jennings, M.D., is a board-certified psychiatrist, master psychopharmacologist, lecturer and renowned international speaker. He is also the founder of Come and Reason Ministries and uses his understanding of the Bible and how it relates to our modern world to inform his approach to brain health and overall wellbeing.
Dr. Jennings expertly weaves spirituality with brain science to address fear, depression, anxiety and relationship issues. He recently explored at length the damaging effects of social isolation (https://comeandreason.com/index.php/en/blogs-main/903-social-isolation-during-covid-19) and its profound impact on physical and mental health, particularly for those already suffering from chronic conditions.
He is a much sought-after speaker who regularly addresses non-medical professionals on the subjects of Spirituality in Medicine, Depression and its Spiritual and Physical Connections, and Alzheimer’s Dementia. He also speaks to medical professionals on the topics of Psychotherapy in Clinical Practice, Major Depression in the Primary Care Setting, and the Neurobiology of Depression — among many others.
Dr. Jennings operates a private practice in Chattanooga and has successfully treated thousands of patients. He is a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and Life-Fellow of the Southern Psychiatric Association.
He is also a prolific author whose books include The God-Shaped Brain: How Changing Your View of God Transforms Your Life; Could It Be This Simple? A Biblical Model for Healing the Mind; The Aging Brain: Proven Steps to Prevent Dementia and Sharpen Your Mind; and The God-Shaped Heart: How Correctly Understanding God’s Love Transforms Us.
To hear his presentations and to learn more about Dr. Timothy R. Jennings and his approach to brain and body health, please visit: www.comeandreason.com.
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SEIU Healthcare Calling on Province to Immediately Remove All Barriers to Vaccination for Frontline Staff
Union calling for urgent government action to pave the way for speedier vaccination rollout including transparency, communications, and emergency paid sick leave for healthcare workers
RICHMOND HILL, ON, Jan. 11, 2021 /CNW/ - SEIU Healthcare, a union that represents over 60,000 frontline healthcare workers in Ontario, is calling on the provincial government to take immediate action to speed up vaccination of essential frontline workers across the entire healthcare system.
The current vaccine roll-out in Ontario is failing due to a lack of transparency, poor communication to frontline providers and insufficient supports for those seeking vaccinations. Our members serving on the frontline continue to report that financial and logistical barriers are preventing them from getting vaccinated.
"Many healthcare workers still don't know when they are due to be vaccinated, where vaccination will take place, and which vaccine will be offered. Healthcare workers are concerned that they will have to take unpaid time off work to get vaccinated at a time when they're struggling to pay their bills," said Sharleen Stewart, president of SEIU Healthcare. "Precariously employed healthcare workers need to know that if they experience side effects from the vaccine, they'll receive ample paid sick leave to recover at home. Combined, these issues are creating significant barriers to vaccination that must be addressed immediately."
That's why we're calling on the Ontario government to immediately implement the following steps to ensure that frontline workers, and those they serve, are protected by vaccination:
Release a detailed vaccine roll-out schedule that lets essential frontline workers know in advance when and where they can access the various COVID-19 vaccines;
Distribute clear multi-lingual communications to inform frontline workers about the vaccination process;
Provide targeted financial assistance that supports those who request time to consult with their physician about the vaccine, as well as financial assistance for those who require time off work to travel to and from a vaccination site;
Ensure ample paid sick leave for those workers who experience side effects from either dose of the vaccination which prevent them from working.
"Frontline workers have given everything to their communities through this battle with COVID-19. Many have gotten sick. Some have lost their lives. We owe it to these workers – and the people they care for every day – to ensure that vaccines are available and that the barriers that could imperil the vaccination effort are eliminated. Government must act now," added Stewart.
On December 24th, SEIU Healthcare, together with other unions in the healthcare sector and the Ontario Hospital Association (OHA), sent a request to the provincial government to fund paid sick leave related to the vaccination for all staff in our hospitals. We received no reply.
On December 29th, SEIU Healthcare, together with AdvantAge Ontario and the OLTCA, sent a similar request to the provincial government to fund paid sick leave related to the vaccination for all staff in the nursing home sector. Again, we received no reply.
SEIU Healthcare represents more than 60,000 healthcare and community service workers across Ontario. The union's members work in hospitals, homecare, nursing and retirement homes, and community services throughout the province. www.seiuhealthcare.ca
SOURCE SEIU Healthcare
Post-Traumatic Thriving
Los Angeles, CA, January 11, 2021 — Is there a science to survival, or are some people simply born with elastic emotional exoskeletons that bounce back readily following even the most traumatic of experiences?
To uncover the answer, world-renown expert on disasters and trauma Dr. Randall Bell undertook unprecedented research, juxtaposing outcomes of scientific studies with stories of real people who have not just survived, but have used their trauma as their fuel to thrive to uncover common denominators. He shares his remarkable insights in his new book, Post-Traumatic Thriving: The Art, Science, & Stories of Resilience.
Dr. Bell sits down with survivors of the Holocaust; murder-victim’s families; crime victims; suicide survivors; and those who’ve experienced homelessness, disasters, addictions, depression, death, divorce, disabilities, defeats and disease to explore the rare mindset of the post-traumatic thriver.
He shares with readers stories of remarkable resilience, including the following:
• A deaf man with a glass eye invented the electric guitar and became a household name, remarkably wealthy and most importantly, happy.
• A convicted murderer took responsibility for the damage he caused, graduated with honors from college, became a minister and turned around the hearts of the most hardened criminals.
• A girl born with cerebral palsy landed the world’s first starring role on national television and spoke at the White House three times.
• A woman hid in a basement for years and lost her entire family in the Holocaust. She eventually found true love and paints stunning artwork.
• The sister of a murder victim helped millions of women in toxic domestic relationships.
• A woman’s car crash resulted in an addiction to prescription drugs, a divorce, a loss of her children and a cot in a homeless shelter. She has rebuilt it all back and more.
• A man set to go to the Olympics had his hopes dashed by Jimmy Carter and went on to build a worldwide business empire.
Ultimately, Dr. Bell documents the science of happiness, as well as the individual styles and common thread that all post-traumatic thrivers have to emerge with a fulfilling life. When trauma hits, your most significant decision will be to dive, survive or thrive. If you choose to thrive, this book is for you.
As an economist, Dr. Randall Bell has consulted on more disasters on earth than anyone in history and is widely considered the world’s top authority in the field of post-traumatic thriving. His clients include the Federal Government, State Governments, International Tribunals, major corporations and homeowners. Dr. Bell believes that “the problem is not the problem — the problem is how we react to the problem.”
Often called the “Master of Disaster,” Dr. Bell is squarely focused on authentic recovery and resilience. His research has been profiled on major television shows and featured in numerous magazines and the international media. More information can be found at www.posttraumaticthriving.com.
Post-Traumatic Thriving: The Art, Science, & Stories of Resilience
Emerging reports of hearing loss during the COVID-19 pandemic and the importance of accessibility to audiological services
Andre Marcoux, PhD, MBA, Michele Dostaler, AuD, Julie-Catherine Ste-Marie, AuD WS Audiology Canada Inc.
Abstract: Covid-19 symptoms range from respiratory distress and fever to completely asymptomatic cases. Several viral infections are known to affect the auditory system and recent case studies propose that SARS-CoV-2 is no exception. Emerging reports indicate the manifestation of both sudden sensorineural hearing loss as well as milder levels of damage during a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Inflammation, ischemia, and thrombosis have, amongst others, been identified as possible causes. Despite the current directives for home isolation and closure of certain services, accessibility to early audiological evaluation and monitoring upon suspicion or detection of sensorineural hearing loss remain essential.
BURLINGTON, ON, Jan. 12, 2021 /CNW/ - A review of emerging case reports and studies suggests that injuries to structures in and around the peripheral and central auditory systems may occur following the infection of SARS-CoV-2; the virus which causes the response more commonly known as COVID-19. Of interest, is the occurrence of hearing loss and other related deficits in both asymptomatic patients and those exhibiting symptoms related to COVID-19. While these reports and studies do not establish causality, various attributions of cause have been proposed and will be highlighted in this article.
The most apparent observations of hearing loss are from confirmed cases of infection of SARS-CoV-2 along with the timely onset of sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL). In March 2020, Sriwijitalai and Wiwanitkit were early in reporting the occurrent of unresolved SSHL in a patient with COVID-19 related respiratory care and recovery. Similarly, Degen, Lenarz and Willenborg (2020) reported the case of a 60-year old man with reported deafness and loud white noise tinnitus bilaterally. Audiologic testing confirmed anacusis on right side and profound sensorineural loss on left side. MRI results for this patient were indicative of an inflammatory process in the right cochlea and meningeal contrast enhancement was detected at the base of the right temporal bone. Cochlear implantation was conducted preventatively on the right side in anticipation of ossification. The left ear was treated with intratympanic injections of triamcinolone without any noted results. This patient also received azithromycin and furosemide during hospitalization, both of which have documented ototoxic effects, but could not have caused the pathological results observed with MRI, or the asymmetrical audiologic findings. The authors highlight the association between Covid-19 acute respiratory distress syndrome and encephalopathy, with more than half of all cases showing meningeal contrast enhancement which subsequently can cause sensorineural hearing loss. Koumpa, Forde and Manjaly (2020), also reported a case of SSHL with accompanying tinnitus without abnormal MRI findings. The 45-year old COVID-19 patient was intubated for 30 days to treat bilateral pulmonary emboli and no ototoxic medications were administered. Bedside testing suggested 65-85 dB descending hearing loss with thresholds at 2, 3, 4, and 6kHz being most affected. A 7-day course of oral prednisone followed by intratympanic steroid injection were administered. Partial improvements of thresholds were subsequently observed. Similarly, Lamounier et al. (2020) reported on a case of predominantly unilateral loss with accompanying disabling tinnitus showing some partial low-frequency improvement following the administration of combined oral and intratympanic corticosteroid therapy. As contemplated, delayed therapy has a limited potential of hearing threshold recovery, such as was observed in an unresolved case of unilateral profound high-frequency SSHL with accompanying tinnitus (Lang, Hintze & Conlon, 2020). Their 30-year old patient did not show any improvement following a course of oral prednisone which was commenced seven weeks after the positive result of SARS-CoV-2 infection and three weeks post onset of hearing loss. The authors highlight the importance of a low index of suspicion of SSHL in hopes of providing a time-sensitive recovery with use of corticosteroid therapy.
Interestingly, cases where SSHL is the only condition related to infection of SARS-CoV-2 have also been noted. Rhman and Wahid (2020) reported a 52-year old male patient with a positive SARS-CoV-2 swab who was otherwise asymptomatic but was subsequently referred for sudden sensorineural hearing loss on the left side preceded by a gradually increasing tinnitus. Hearing thresholds revealed a severe sensorineural hearing loss for the left ear. No intracranial abnormalities could be detected with MRI and no other attributable causes for the sudden hearing loss could be identified. Intratympanic injection of methylprednisolone provided a partial recovery of hearing. Suspecting an emergence of SSHL following the SARS-Cov-2 outbreak, and the known viral etiology of SSHL, Kilic et al (2020) performed a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test on adults who presented to an ENT clinic with the sole complaint of SSHL. One of the five patients was found to be positive for SARS-CoV-2, and otherwise did not exhibit any symptoms of Covid-19.
A widely cited mechanism to explain the manifestation of SSHL revolves around the same receptor to which SARS-CoV-2 binds to enter the body; the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). SARS-CoV-2 is known to enter the body by binding to ACE2 receptors of the alveolar epithelial cells and endothelial cells of the lungs and from there bind to other areas of the body where ACE2 receptors are found. (Cure & Cumhur Cure, 2020). While it is not known if these receptors are expressed in the human cochlea and whether or not they would permit a direct entry of SARS-CoV-2, they have been found in the mucosal epithelium of the Eustachian Tube and middle ear spaces as well as the cochlea of mice (Uranaka et al., 2020). An ensuing release of inflammatory cytokines would then likely result in oxidative damage of hearing structures. Other possible hypotheses to explain the pathophysiology of SSHL have been proposed, namely, but not limited to, a SARS-CoV-2-induced deoxygenation of erythrocytes leading to the hypoxia of hearing structures, or conversely a thrombosis caused by a change in vascular microstructure leading to ischemic lesions (Cure & Cumhur Cure, 2020).
The direct verification of these proposed etiologies, or others to follow, may shed light on the possible prevalence of SARS-CoV-2-related hearing loss. However, a broader hearing assessment strategy of both symptomatic and asymptomatic cases may also have significant merit. As support of this argument, using transient evoked otoacoustic emissions (TEOAE) which are sensitive to changes of cochlear function, Mustafa (2020), was able to observe differences in cochlear function between asymptomatic individuals, aged 20-50 years, with confirmed infection from SARS-CoV-2 and a control group with normal hearing. Significantly lower TEOAE amplitudes were also accompanied by significantly poorer hearing thresholds at 4, 6, and 8kHz despite no hearing impairment being noted during case history. These results are indicative that SARS-CoV-2 may also cause milder forms of hearing loss than the more apparent cases of SSHL noted above. While the study makes no mention of severity of loss or whether or not there was an asymmetric nature to their results, there is nevertheless indication that milder forms of hearing dysfunction may be measured in individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2. It may also be inferred from these results that hearing dysfunction may be a specific indicator (symptom) of infection for individuals who are otherwise asymptomatic for COVID-19.
As we commence to obtain reports which indicate the potential effects of SARS-CoV-2 on the auditory system, we acknowledge the need for systematic studies on the matter to help establish prevalence as well as other epidemiological data. Also, as part of a broader remedial scope, future studies should also evaluate if milder occurrences of hearing or auditory processing deficits are also prevalent for both symptomatic and asymptomatic cases. In this context, access to audiology services is of substantial value to allow for the adequate surveillance of hearing loss, most notably in cases of suspected SSHL where timely assessments and treatment are often of utmost importance to allow for any recovery of hearing function.
References:
Cure, E., Cumhur Cure, M. Comment on "Hearing loss and Covid-19: A note". American Journal of Otolaryngology. 2020 July-August; 41(4): 102513. Published online 2020 Apr 30. doi: 10.1016/j. amjoto.2020.102513
Degen C., Lenarz T., Willenborg K. (2020). Acute profound sensorineural hearing loss after COVID-19 pneumonia. Mayo Clinic Proceedings. 95:1801–3. doi: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2020.05.034
Kilic, O., Kalcioglu, M. T., Cag, Y., et al. (2020). Could sudden sensorineural hearing loss be the sole manifestation of COVID-19? An investigation into SARS-COV-2 in the etiology of sudden sensorineural hearing loss. International Journal of Infectious Disorders, 97 :208–11. doi: 10.1016/j. ijid.2020.06.023
Koumpa, F. S., Forde, C.T., Manjaly, J.G. (2020) Sudden irreversible hearing loss post COVID-19. BMJ Case Reports, 13:e238419. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2020-238419
Lamounier, P., Gonçalves, V. F., Ramos, H. V. L., Gobbo, D. A., Teixeira, R. P., dos Reis, P. C., Bahmad Jr., F., & Costa, C. C. (2020). A 67-year-old woman with sudden hearing loss associated with SARS- CoV-2 infection. American Journal of Case Reports, 21: 1–6.
Lang, B., Hintze, J., Conlon, B. (2020). Coronavirus disease 2019 and sudden sensorineural hearing loss. The Journal of Laryngology & Otology, 1-3. Advance online publication. doi:10.1017/ S0022215120002145
Mustafa, M.W.M. (2020). Audiological profile of asymptomatic Covid-19 PCR-positive cases. American Journal of Otolaryngology, 41:102483. doi:10.1016/j.amjoto.2020.102483
Rhman S.A., Wahid A.A. COVID-19 and sudden sensorineural hearing loss: a case report. Otolaryngology Case Reports, 16:100198. doi: 10.1016/j.xocr.2020.100198
Sriwijitalai W., Wiwanitkit V. (2020). Hearing loss and COVID-19: a note. American Journal of Otolaryngology, 41:102473. doi: 10.1016/j.amjoto.2020.102473
Uranaka T., Kashio A., Ueha R., Sato, T., Bing, H., Ying, G., Kinoshita, M. (2020). Expression of ACE2, TMPRSS2, and furin in mouse ear tissue, and the implications for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Laryngoscope, 00:1-5.
SOURCE WS Audiology
Health Canada Approves ONUREG® (azacitidine tablets), First Maintenance Therapy for Patients in Remission from Acute Myeloid Leukemia
ONUREG® has shown clinically meaningful increase in overall survival for patients
MONTREAL, Jan. 12, 2021 /CNW/ - Bristol Myers Squibb Canada (BMS) announced today that Health Canada has approved ONUREG® (azacitidine tablets) for use as the first and only maintenance therapy for adult patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who achieved complete remission (CR) or complete remission with incomplete blood count recovery (CRi) following induction therapy with or without consolidation treatment, and who are not eligible for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT).1
AML is a heterogeneous clonal disorder characterized by immature myeloid cell proliferation and bone marrow failure, and is the most common form of acute leukemia in adults, accounting for approximately 80 per cent of adult cases.2,3,4 An estimated 40-60 per cent of patients aged 60 years and older and 60-80 per cent of patients under 60 years old will obtain complete remission through induction chemotherapy (IC); however, 50 per cent will relapse within a year.5,6 Once a relapse occurs, long-term survival averages at six months.7 In 2015, an estimated 1,235 Canadians were diagnosed with AML and the overall incidence rate in Canada is 3.46/100,000 people.8,9
"While the majority of patients with AML achieve a complete remission with intensive chemotherapy, many remission patients will experience disease relapse, especially if they were not eligible for a stem cell transplant. Until now, there has been no established standard of care for Canadians who are in remission from AML, but are not eligible for a stem cell transplant," noted Dr. Andre Schuh, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto. "The approval of ONUREG® is significant because it gives transplant ineligible patients with AML in remission a new treatment option that may improve their survival".
ONUREG® is a nucleoside metabolic inhibitor that is taken orally and works by preventing cancer cells from growing. ONUREG® becomes incorporated into the building blocks of cells (deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and ribonucleic acid (RNA)), which interferes with the production of new DNA and RNA. This is thought to kill cancerous cells in leukemia.10
"The approval of ONUREG® is an extension of our ongoing commitment to Canadians living with blood cancer," said Al Reba, General Manager, Bristol Myers Squibb Canada. "We are proud that this therapy will help to fill a significant need for Canadians living in remission from AML and hope that it will have a positive impact on their everyday life."
Health Canada's approval of ONUREG® is based upon findings from the QUAZAR AML-001 clinical trial. The QUAZAR study, a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, multicenter Phase III study, involved adult patients 55 years or older living with AML. In the study, patients were randomized to Onureg or placebo within four months of achieving first CR/CRi following intensive induction chemotherapy and were not eligible for a stem cell transplant.11 In the study, results showed the median overall survival (OS) was significantly longer with ONUREG® versus placebo: 24.7 months versus 14.8 months [HR 0.69 (95% CI: 0.55, 0.86); p=0.0009], indicating a 31 per cent reduction in the risk of death in the ONUREG® arm. Relapse-free survival (RFS), the key secondary endpoint in the study, supports the OS results. The median RFS was 10.2 months for ONUREG® versus 4.8 months for placebo [HR 0.65 (95% CI: 0.52, 0.81); p=0.0001].12
About Bristol Myers Squibb Canada Bristol Myers Squibb Canada Co. is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Bristol Myers Squibb Company, a global biopharmaceutical company whose mission is to discover, develop and deliver innovative medicines that help patients prevail over serious diseases. For more information about Bristol Myers Squibb global operations, visit www.bms.com. Bristol Myers Squibb Canada Co. delivers innovative medicines for serious diseases to Canadian patients in the areas of cardiovascular health, oncology, and immunoscience. Bristol Myers Squibb Canada Co. employs close to 400 people across the country. For more information, please visit www.bms.com/ca.
About Bristol Myers Squibb Bristol Myers Squibb is a global biopharmaceutical company whose mission is to discover, develop and deliver innovative medicines that help patients prevail over serious diseases. For more information about Bristol Myers Squibb, visit us at BMS.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.
Caprion-HistoGeneX Expands its Histological Biomarker Franchise by Joining Forces with Mosaic Laboratories
MONTREAL, Jan. 12, 2021 /CNW Telbec/ - Caprion-HistoGeneX, a leading global contract research laboratory services provider backed by Arsenal Capital Partners ("Arsenal"), announced today the acquisition of Mosaic Laboratories LLC ("Mosaic"), a California-based company offering histology and immunohistochemistry services to global pharmaceutical clients. The addition of Mosaic further strengthens the North American base for Caprion-HistoGeneX's histopathology assay development and deployment, expands the volume of pathology services and consolidates the company's position as a world-leading service provider of histopathology biomarker analysis for global clinical trials.
Mosaic is a pioneer in using multiplex immunohistochemistry with spectral imaging and is recognized for its outstanding services for the development, validation and implementation of complex immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization and FISH assays, positioning itself as one of the most prominent and comprehensive providers in the field. Core Mosaic capabilities include study design, assay development and deployment, data interpretation, and services to support exploratory biomarker analysis at pre-clinical and clinical trial stages, thereby enabling timely decisions for patient selection.
"We are truly excited to join forces with Caprion-HistoGeneX. This partnership provides strong collaboration opportunities that will further support the programs of our clients and allow us to globalize our existing and future assays to support clinical trials," said Chris Kerfoot and Lisa Dauffenbach, Co-founders and Managing Members of Mosaic.
"The combination of Mosaic and Caprion-HistoGeneX strengthens our leadership position as a global provider of precision medicine services offering the full range of immunohistochemistry, immune monitoring, proteomics and genomics biomarkers" said Martin LeBlanc, CEO of Caprion-HistoGeneX. "Mosaic's excellent track record of developing and deploying complex immunohistochemistry assays will improve our ability to meet the rapidly expanding needs of our clients for histopathology services across our global network of laboratories in North America, Europe, and Asia, including China."
"The addition of Mosaic reflects Arsenal's commitment to support the development and international expansion of Caprion-HistoGeneX through continued investment in complementary capabilities, services and geographic coverage, and solidifies the company's leadership position in one of the fastest growing areas of biopharma R&D." said David Spaight, the Executive Chairman of Caprion-HistoGeneX and an Operating Partner of Arsenal.
In conjunction with this transaction and the recently announced acquisition of Clinical Logistics Inc., Caprion-HistoGeneX is also planning to unveil in the coming weeks its new corporate name and brand identity for the combined entities reflecting its vision and positioning as a leading global provider of precision medicine services.
Kirkland & Ellis LLP acted as legal advisors to Caprion-HistoGeneX.
Intrepid Investment Bankers LLC acted as financial advisor, and Davis Wright Tremaine LLP acted as legal advisor to Mosaic.
About Caprion-HistoGeneX Caprion-HistoGeneX is a leading provider of specialized precision medicine laboratory services to the biopharmaceutical industry. Leveraging its integrated analytical platforms in immunology, histopathology, proteomics and genomics, as well as related specimen collection and logistics services, Caprion-HistoGeneX supports the entire drug development cycle, from discovery to late stage clinical trials. The company operates globally with 9 facilities located in Canada, USA, Belgium, Australia, and China. For more information: www.caprion.com and www.histogenex.com
About Mosaic Laboratories LLC Mosaic is a leader in providing preclinical and clinical services to the pharmaceutical industry and has pioneered multiplex chromogenic immunohistochemistry using multispectral imaging. Mosaic develops proprietary assays, tissue banks, and software algorithms to support data analysis. Leveraging this longstanding and highly differentiated multiplex IHC expertise, Mosaic has built a reputation as having the highest-quality validated assays, vivid multiplex IHC images, and rapid development and implementation of new assays, backed with an uncompromising service focus on speed, agility and customer service. The company has also developed a broader menu of central lab services, including histology, FISH, and ISH. For more information: https://www.mosaiclabs.com
About Arsenal Capital Partners Arsenal is a leading private equity firm that specializes in investments in middle-market healthcare and industrials companies. Since its inception in 2000, Arsenal has raised institutional equity investment funds of $5.3 billion, has completed more than 200 platform and add-on investments, and achieved more than 30 realizations. Arsenal invests in industry sectors in which the firm has significant prior knowledge and experience. The firm works with management teams to build strategically important companies with leading market positions, high growth and high value-add. For more information: www.arsenalcapital.com.
SOURCE Caprion Biosciences
Coconut Software providing free software to support COVID vaccination for First Nations communities in Canada
SASKATOON, SK, Jan. 11, 2021 /CNW/ - Coconut Software, the leading provider of customer engagement solutions for the banking and credit union industry, has announced that they'll be providing their appointment booking software completely free of charge to any First Nations communities in Canada in order to provide COVID-19 vaccinations.
"We believe it is critical to help First Nations communities battle against the COVID-19 pandemic - it's imperative that we help ensure vaccinations are scheduled in a timely manner." states Katherine Regnier, CEO of Coconut Software.
Coconut Software will equip these communities with software to quickly schedule, measure and manage in-person vaccine appointments. Individuals will simply visit an online scheduling link and select the most convenient date and time slot. The solution will also provide community groups with the ability to add in custom questions to be answered during the appointment booking process, as well as reminders through SMS and emails for upcoming appointments.
"The orchestration of the vaccine deployment to keep our healthcare workers and communities safer is something Coconut can help with - we're thrilled to do our part."
Coconut Software is a leading provider of customer engagement solutions for modern banks and credit unions and is backed by investments from Conexus Venture Capital Fund, Information Venture Partners, SaskWorks Venture Fund, Bay Partners, ScaleUp Ventures, PIC Investment Group, with additional financing by CIBC. By providing technology that elevates the customer experience while improving operational efficiencies, Coconut's solutions consistently improve satisfaction scores, decrease churn, and increase sales.
SOURCE Coconut Software
Health Canada Approves BAVENCIO® for the Maintenance Treatment of Patients with Advanced Bladder Cancer
BAVENCIO is the first and only maintenance therapy for unresectable locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (UC) approved by Health Canada
MISSISSAUGA, ON, Jan. 11, 2021 /CNW/ - EMD Serono Canada, the biopharmaceutical business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany in the US and Canada, and Pfizer Canada ULC announced that Health Canada has approved BAVENCIO® (avelumab) for the maintenance treatment of patients with unresectable locally advanced or metastatic UC whose disease has not progressed following first-line platinum-based chemotherapy.
"UC arises from the urinary tract and is the fifth most common cancer in Canada, accounting for 11,800 new cases and 2,500 deaths in 2019. In patients with locally advanced or metastatic UC, treatment options are limited and outcomes are poor," says Dr. Srikala Sridhar, MD MSc FRCPC, Head of the Genitourinary Medical Oncologists of Canada, Associate Professor and Medical Oncologist at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. "Health Canada's approval of BAVENCIO in this setting is great news for our patients and one of the most important treatment advancements in the field in over 15 years."
"This is wonderful news for bladder cancer patients across Canada who now have another treatment option," says Ferg Devins, Board Member of Bladder Cancer Canada. "This approval for a maintenance therapy will help provide more options to Canadian patients and provide hope to their loved ones."
Reviewed under Health Canada's Priority Review of Drug Submissions policy, BAVENCIO has been granted a notice of compliance (NOC) based on data from the Phase III JAVELIN Bladder 100 study.1 The Phase III JAVELIN 100 study, an open-label, parallel-arm, multi-centre study conducted in 700 patients treated with BAVENCIO plus best supportive care (BSC) versus BSC alone in patients with unresectable locally advanced or metastatic UC whose disease had not progressed following first-line platinum-containing chemotherapy.1
"We are proud to advance treatment options to Canadian urothelial carcinoma patients," says Manuel Zafra, Managing Director of EMD Serono. "This represents a significant milestone for the continued partnership between EMD Serono and Pfizer Canada ULC."
"Our Alliance and the approval of this urothelial carcinoma indication demonstrates our commitment to meeting the needs of patients," says Cynthia Di Lullo, Oncology Lead, Pfizer Canada ULC, "We look forward to bringing this new treatment option to a patient population who needed to see advances in science in this area of unmet need."
About Urothelial Carcinoma in Canada Bladder cancer is the fifth most common cancer in Canada.2 In 2019, approximately 11,800 individuals were diagnosed and an estimated 2,500 died from bladder cancer.2 Bladder cancer has a recurrence rate of 60-70 per cent in patients.3
About BAVENCIO® (avelumab) BAVENCIO is a human anti-programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) antibody and is part of a class of immunotherapy drugs called immune checkpoint inhibitors. BAVENCIO was discovered by Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany and is co-developed and co-commercialized by EMD Serono, the biopharmaceutical business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany in the US and Canada, and Pfizer Canada ULC. BAVENCIO is also indicated for the treatment of adult patients with metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) and for the treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic UC who have disease progression during or following platinum-based chemotherapy or within 12 months of neoadjuvant or adjuvant treatment with platinum-based chemotherapy.
About EMD Serono, Canada EMD Serono, Canada, is the Canadian biopharmaceutical business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. EMD Serono, Canada has integrated cutting-edge science, innovative products and devices, and industry-leading patient support and access programs. EMD Serono, Canada has deep expertise in neurology, fertility and endocrinology, as well as a robust pipeline of potential therapies in neurology, oncology, immunology and immuno-oncology. EMD Serono, Canada has more than 100 employees across Canada with headquarters in Mississauga, Ontario.
About Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, a leading science and technology company, operates across healthcare, life science and performance materials. Around 57,000 employees work to make a positive difference to millions of people's lives every day by creating more joyful and sustainable ways to live.
From advancing gene editing technologies and discovering unique ways to treat the most challenging diseases to enabling the intelligence of devices – the company is everywhere. In 2019, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, generated sales of € 16.2 billion in 66 countries.
The company holds the global rights to the name and trademark "Merck" internationally. The only exceptions are the United States and Canada, where the business sectors of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany operate as EMD Serono in healthcare, MilliporeSigma in life science, and EMD Performance Materials. Since its founding 1668, scientific exploration and responsible entrepreneurship have been key to the company's technological and scientific advances. To this day, the founding family remains the majority owner of the publicly listed company.
About Pfizer Canada Pfizer Canada ULC is the Canadian operation of Pfizer Inc., one of the world's leading biopharmaceutical companies. Our diversified health care portfolio includes some of the world's best known and most prescribed medicines and vaccines. We apply science and our global resources to improve the health and well-being of Canadians at every stage of life. Our commitment is reflected in everything we do, from our disease awareness initiatives to our community partnerships. To learn more about Pfizer Canada, visit pfizer.ca or you can follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube.
For further information:
Karley Ura Director, Healthcare, NATIONAL Public Relations 416-858-0537 kura@national.ca
