Personalising stroke treatment using brain computer interfaces
UNDER STRICT EMBARGO UNTIL 01.00 GMT 7 NOVEMBER 2019
Not for publication or broadcast before this time
After only one hour of training with a brain computer interface (BCI), there were significant changes in people’s brains suggesting that BCIs could be personalised for treating stroke and other brain disorders. That’s according to new research in The Journal of Physiology published today.
A BCI allows humans to control devices using only their thoughts. The technology works by measuring the electrical activity of the brain (using a non-invasive technique called an electroencephalography- EEG) and translating it by means of artificial intelligence (AI) into an action, such as communication with a computer or the movement of a prosthetic arm.
But are BCIs just reading out neural information or could they also be changing the brain itself. If so, can these changes be used for therapy?
A collaboration between researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, the Technical University of Berlin in Germany and the Public University of Navarra in Spain, investigated the impact of two different BCIs on the human brain.
One task involved participants imagining that they were moving their arm or foot (a so-called motor imagery task) while the other task involved picking out letters from a screen (a visual task). Not only did they find changes in brain areas specific to the type of task being performed (e.g. visual tasks led to changes in visual areas of the brain), but more importantly these changes happened within a very short period (one hour), and not after weeks of physical training. It is well-known that changes can happen when a physical task is being performed, but changes to the brain due to BCI tasks that are purely mental, has been unheard of so far.
Arno Villringer, one of the authors of the study said:
“The spatial specificity of BCI effects (e.g. that a visual task impacts the visual areas in the brain) opens up the opportunity of tailoring BCI-based therapeutic approaches individually. In other words, we may be able to personalise treatment for stroke patients according to where in the brain they have damage.”
Klaus-Robert Müller, machine learning and AI expert adds:
“Tailoring BCI might allow us to use it in the future for rehabilitation in all sorts of brain disorders. Artificial intelligence is key to enabling this technology, as it allows the BCI application without long patient training.”
Notes for Editors
Full paper title: Immediate brain plasticity after one hour of Brain–Computer Interface (BCI) https://physoc.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1113/JP278118 (link will only work after the embargo date. Before then, please email the press office for a copy of the paper)
The Journal of Physiology publishes advances in physiology which increase our understanding of how our bodies function in health and disease. http://jp.physoc.org
The Physiological Society brings together over 4,000 scientists from over 60 countries. The Society promotes physiology with the public and parliament alike. It supports physiologists by organising world-class conferences and offering grants for research and also publishes the latest developments in the field in its three leading scientific journals, The Journal of Physiology, Experimental Physiology and Physiological Reports. www.physoc.org
Opinion: Young people need our support - we must seize this tremendous opportunity
By Patricia Scotland, Commonwealth Secretary-General1 November 2019 - for immediate release Our world seems to be changing faster than ever – technologically, environmentally, socially – and in so many other ways. It is hard for any of us to keep up with the astonishing pace and scale of developments, and their impact for better or for worse on our own lives and the ways in which they affect the future of our planet. Yet too often it seems that those with the greatest stake in the future, are least empowered to shape it: young people. This is something the Commonwealth has for more than 50 years been working hard to change; and never more so than today. Population growth means that there are now more young people in the Commonwealth than ever before, and this offers choices and challenges for all involved in planning and making policy, and for young people themselves. The combined population of the Commonwealth is now 2.4 billion, of which more than 60 per cent are aged 29 or under, and one in three between the ages of 15 and 29. Through social media, young people are more connected, informed, engaged and globally-aware than ever before. Even so, their potential to drive progress and innovation is often overlooked or remains untapped, despite pioneering Commonwealth leadership over the decades on inclusiveness and intergenerational connection.Since the 1970s, Commonwealth cooperation has supported member states with provision of education and training for youth workers, who have a central role to play in encouraging, enabling, and empowering young people. Practitioners may be of any age, and operate in many settings: youth clubs, parks, schools, prisons, hospitals, on the streets and in rural areas. Commonwealth approaches and engagement recognise the dynamic role youth workers can play in addressing young people's welfare and rights, and in connecting and involving them in decision-making process at all levels. In some Commonwealth countries, youth work is a distinct profession, acknowledged in policy and legislation to deliver and certify quality of practice, including through education and training. In others it is institutionalised less formally through custom and practice. In some countries there is little or no youth work activity - formal or informal.To advance the cause of young people, and their direct participation in nation-building and the issues affecting them, the Commonwealth Secretariat supports the governments of member countries with technical assistance relating to policy and legislation in professionalising youth work. A pioneering Commonwealth contribution is the Commonwealth Diploma in Youth Development, which has been delivered in almost 30 Commonwealth member states.The new Commonwealth Degree and Diploma in Youth Work provides countries with a resource for developing human capital using a consortium business model that makes the training resources accessible at low cost for persons in low income contexts. The Commonwealth also supports the global collectivisation of youth work professionals through the emerging Commonwealth Alliance of Youth Workers' Associations (CAYWA), an international association of professional associations dedicated to advancing youth work across the Commonwealth. CAYWA facilitates the cross-pollination of ideas and collegial support among youth work practitioners, and is developing into a unified global influence providing support to governments and all stakeholders in youth work profession. Expertise is offered by the Commonwealth Secretariat with the design of short courses and outcomes frameworks that support just-in-time and refresher training to augment diploma and degree qualifications. Guidance is also offered on establishing youth worker associations that can help towards building and sustaining professional standards, thereby safeguarding the quality of services offered to young people.In 2019 a conference in Malta bringing together youth workers from throughout the Commonwealth continued to build recognition and professional standards of youth work in member countries. Among outcomes was the establishment of a week-long celebration of the extraordinary services of full-time practitioners and volunteers – recognised as youth workers - who support the personal development and empowerment of young people. Youth Work Week, with the theme 'Youth Work in Action', will be observed 4 -10 November 2019 in the 53 member states of the Commonwealth. Looking forward to the 2020 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Rwanda next June, Youth Work Week will bring into sharper focus the challenges young people in our member countries face, and the opportunities they are offered – including through Commonwealth connection. By recruiting and placing appropriately trained and properly supported youth workers, communities in Commonwealth countries can help young people channel their energies and talent in positive directions, especially during the transition from education into work.Supported by positive role models and with mentors to whom they can relate, young people can be guided towards healthy and productive lives. When equipped to develop as well-rounded individuals and to contribute to the societies in which they live, young people can make immense contributions towards transforming our communities and our Commonwealth and – above all - to their own future.
U.S. Military Gains Quicker Access to Migraine Relief through FDA-Cleared CEFALY Technology
A new partnership between CEFALY Technology and QB Medical puts wearable medical devices in the hands of health care providers and grants active military immediate relief from migraine headaches
NEW YORK, November 5, 2019 _ Move over lengthy approval process, a new partnership between CEFALY Technology and QB Medical, Inc. means waiting for migraine relief will be quicker, and less of a headache for active military and their dependents.
“We are excited to team up with QB Medical and help active military and their dependents more easily findmigraine relief,” said Jennifer Trainor-McDermott, CEO with CEFALY Technology. “It’s an honor to be able to offer these brave men and women less obstacles on their path to recovery.”
Prior to the partnership, active military and their dependents, had to navigate a lengthy approval process to obtain a device through TRICARE, a health care program for uniformed service members, retirees, and their families. From start-to-finish, a service member could be looking at several weeks of potential migraines before receiving their CEFALY device. Under the new partnership, health care providers will have the ability to have inventory on hand to provide patients’ during their scheduled appointments.
“This is a big difference that will be felt immediately among soldiers seeking help from migraine headache,” said Shawn Nelson, CEO with QB Medical, Inc., who completed his service as a healthcare provider for the US Navy and later started his Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB). “The CEFALY device has proven to be instrumental to soldiers, particularly those that have to be careful what medications they consume or who simply cannot tolerate more drugs in their system.”
The CEFALY device is the first FDA-cleared medical technology of its kind for the treatment of migraine headaches. It is a non-invasive device placed on the forehead that uses two distinct programs (ACUTE and PREVENT) to stimulate and desensitize the area research identifies as a center for migraine pain, the Trigeminal nerve. Since CEFALY is not a drug, it can be used with an existing treatment or as a standalone option. Patients who use the device consistently show a decrease in migraine days and in intake of migraine medication.
It’s estimated that about one-third of returning soldiers have migraine pain in the first months after coming home, per the American Migraine Foundation1; and yet studies repeatedly show the condition is frequently underdiagnosed. In 2017, there were more than 15,000 active-duty soldiers with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), according to the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center2, which is the Defense Department’s office of responsibility for tracking TBI data in the U.S. military. So far for 2018, more than of 3,600 cases of TBI have been reported for the first quarter3. Headache is one of the most common symptoms after TBI.
About CEFALY Technology
CEFALY Technology is a Belgium-based company, with US offices based in Wilton, Connecticut, specializing in electronics for medical applications. It has developed external cranial stimulation technology for applications in the field of neurology; in particular for treating migraines. For more information, visit https://www.cefaly.us.
About QB Medical
QB Medical, Inc. is a medical supply distributor located in Chula Vista, Ca. Founded in 2005, QB Medical services over 100 government-funded medical centers. QB Medical is passionate about discovering the most effective medical products for our military service members, veterans, government healthcare providers and patients. For more information, visit https://www.qbmedical.com.
TIPS TO BUST BURNOUT & BOOST ENERGY BEFORE, DURING, & AFTER THE HOLIDAYS
Holistic Nurse Shares How to Feel Your Best During the Season of Giving'Tis the season for family, friends, and....festive burnout!Officially classified as a medical condition earlier this year by the WHO, burnout is a growing mental health problem in America and it affects more people during the holidays than at any other time of year. It's understandable why our energy levels are depleted. The holidays bring an overwhelming array of seasonal demands (from shopping, baking, decorating, and entertaining, to traveling and excessive eating and drinking.) After the holidays we feel mentally, physically, and emotionally drained. But for many, the holiday blues peak even sooner. A survey from last year shows one in three Americans experience ‘Festive Burnout’ before Christmas even comes! According to Burnout expert Jennifer Marcenelle, it takes a concerted effort to replenish your energy this time of year but it is vital in order to avoid burnout."Burnout is a huge mental health problem this time of year and it needs to be taken seriously because it can lead to an assortment of health and wellness issues...." ...says Jennifer Marcenelle who has dedicated her career to combating the burnout epidemic. The term burnout is tossed around so casually today, it is difficult to know where normal stress stops and where burnout begins. It's true that the holidays bring on a number of festive commitments. We are all stressed. We are all tired, and we are all trying to balance our time against a growing to-do list. According to Jennifer, this is how burnout begins. It creeps in slowly and undetected. By recognizing the earliest warning signs and by replenishing your energy, it is preventable. We all know diet, exercise, sleep, and hydration are paramount to health. During the season of eating, moderation is key. It is important to balance indulgences with a bit of physical activity, nutritious food, and a lot of water. Fueling your body with fresh whole food will fuel your energy and it might sound counterintuitive, but expending energy through exercise will too. Avoiding burnout also starts with mindfulness. Taking a few minutes out of your day to clarify your intentions and be in the moment are helpful. Jennifer is also an advocate of other holistic techniques like meditation, deep breathing, yoga, and Gemstone and Diamond therapy. "The holidays are an opportunity to enjoy quality time with family and friends but if you are burned out, no one wins. With so many things depleting your energy it is important that you take time to recharge so you can sustain mental and physical health..."...says Marcenelle whose firsthand exposure to the day-to-day stresses of critical care nursing opened her eyes to the burnout epidemic that ravages Americans. As a result, she experienced personal, professional and spiritual burnout, and after a near-suicide, she became her own critical care patient. Now she is on a mission to help others take their life back from burnout. Jennifer Marcenelle is urging awareness for mental and emotional health. She is sharing tips and actionable advice people can use to avoid and combat festive burnout, improve mental wellness, and have a happier, healthier holiday.IN AN INTERVIEW OR ARTICLE JENNIFER MARCENELLE CAN DISCUSS:Insight and actionable advice people can use to avoid and combat burnout during the holidaysWarning signs of burnout and the difference between normal stress and a serious problemTips for improving mental, physical and emotional health during the holidaysMulti-dimensional holistic solutions for stress and anxietySeasonal strategies for burnout ABOUT JENNIFER MARCENELLE: Jennifer Marcenelle MBA, BSN, RN, HBC-HN is a Board-Certified Holistic Registered Nurse with over 30 years of experience in the medical industry. She currently holds degrees in nursing and business, with a specialization in Holistic Healing for burnout. As an energy medicine practitioner and the Founder and CEO of Burn Bright Today, she helps people improve mental wellness and recover from burnout and other challenges. A certified Gemstone and Diamond Therapy Practitioner, Marcenelle has dedicated her career to helping people move from Burning Out to Burning Bright.For More Information Visit:https://burnbrighttoday.com
Christie Innomed and Hitachi Healthcare Americas Announce Exclusive, Strategic Partnership
Through this alliance, Christie Innomed expands its imaging portfolio to become a key player in the ultrasound market and a premier destination for medical imaging solutions across the country.
MONTREAL, Nov. 1, 2019 /CNW Telbec/ - Christie Innomed is appointed by Hitachi Healthcare Americas as the exclusive nationwide distributor for its diagnostic and surgical ultrasound imaging systems in Canada. Together with its multivendor experience servicing ultrasound, Christie Innomed now becomes more than ever a true, one-stop, independent resource for Canadian healthcare facilities.
"Christie Innomed's long-standing experience in diagnostic imaging sales, technical service and clinical support makes them the ideal partner to grow our market share in Canada." said John Waddell, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Hitachi Healthcare Americas. "Moreover, both our companies share the same patient-centric approach and customer-first philosophy, ensuring customers will receive expert support and service, as well as great customer care".
"We are proud to partner with Hitachi Healthcare Americas," said Martin Roy, President and CEO, Christie Innomed. "Hitachi is a recognized pioneer in the ultrasound industry and has advanced the standard of real time imaging by developing cutting-edge ultrasound technology to meet the needs of every user— from innovative transducer design, high-performance consoles to advanced clinical applications. The addition of the Hitachi ultrasound systems to our current portfolio fits well with our mission to offer the best-of-breed technologies to the medical community so they can deliver the best patient care possible."
Among the offerings Christie Innomed will make available throughout Canada is the latest Arietta 850 system, which features breakthrough wide-broadband 4G CMUT transducer performance and new eFocusing transmission and reception technology that enhance the ultrasound image, allowing healthcare providers to see more clinical detail. The platform also features a robust set of applications ranging from radiology and general imaging, to obstetrics, gynecology (OB/GYN), and expanding clinical versatility. Christie Innomed plans to market the system as a primary model for premium shared-service ultrasound diagnostic systems.
Current state-of-the-art ultrasound solutions from Christie Innomed will be demonstrated at the upcoming Société de Radiologie du Québec 2019 (SRQ 2019) annual meeting in Montreal on November 1-3, 2019 and at Radiological Society of North America (RSNA 2019) in Chicago on December 1-6 2019. To learn more about Hitachi's Ultrasound products visit Christie Innomed at the SRQ annual conference or Hitachi Medical Systems at RSNA booth # 1911 South Hall.
Not attending SRQ or RSNA? Contact Christie Innomed for a demo!
About Christie Innomed
Christie Innomed develops, distributes, integrates and supports medical equipment and software solutions to improve the performance of Canadian healthcare institutions.
Founded in 1954, Christie Innomed is a leader in offering best-in-class, innovative Medical Imaging solutions and in managing the lifecycle of a full range of technology assets for over 1,500 hospitals and clinics.
With more than 250 experts providing vendor-agnostic sales and service from seven locations nationwide, Christie Innomed empowers facilities across Canada to achieve greater efficiencies and deliver more reliable patient care.
Hitachi Healthcare Americas delivers best in class medical imaging technologies for healthcare providers. Hitachi's MRI, CT and Ultrasound along with Agfa HealthCare's Digital Radiology provide speed, comfort and quality for both physicians and patients and play an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of disease while driving social innovation into healthcare. Hitachi's VidiStar image and reporting platform enables healthcare professionals to create value-based reports leveraging a cloud-based image management and analytics platform for improved communication across the healthcare organization. Physicians can grow their business into pediatrics, orthopedics and other unique patient populations while exploring new areas to compete. With an optimized and patient centric approach healthcare providers can deliver strong value into their communities and Hitachi will be there to support them. Our customer first philosophy compels us to make customer support one of the most important things we do. Innovating Healthcare, Embracing the Future.
Having friends, coworkers, or family members participate in a walk to raise money for a cause is an awesome experience. It truly allows you to see the difference that teamwork can make in your local community. If you want to motivate a group for an upcoming walkathon, here are some stellar ways to do so.
Inform Them About the Cause
We all like to know the reason behind why we’re doing something. It helps us to stir up passion inside to perform at our best. Take some time to learn about what the fundraiser is for and try to present it in a way that provokes emotion in your group members. For example, if the walkathon is for children with cancer, then schedule a time for your group members to go visit the kids that they’ll be helping.
Get Custom Apparel
One great way to help your group feel more like a team is to have custom team logo apparelmade. It will make each member feel special and as if they’re a part of something bigger than themselves. It doesn’t matter if you have custom t-shirts, hats, or hoodies. Just have some sort of team apparel that will make your group unique.
Make It A Competition
You should sit down with your group members and decide on a fundraising goal. Competition is a great way to bring your group members into the walkathon ready to make a difference. Set a specified amount of money that your group wants to receive for the charity during the walkathon. Once you get a goal set, you may be surprised at just how many of your group members will come up with friends or acquaintances that will donate more money to the cause.
Offer Incentives
You can opt for offering incentives to the various group members as an extra push to get them motivated for your upcoming walkathon. Incentives can be given for those who come up with the monetary supports or something alike. You can make these a cash prize, a customized logo shirt, or something that will make your group members want to work hard to receive it.
When it comes to prepping your group for a walkathon, motivation is one area you cannot leave out. The more motivated you can get your team, the more fundraising they’re going to do. The above are just four of many ways you can choose to employ to motivate your walkathon group today.
Life hacks, DIY tricks, and at home devices that are meant to “mimic the effects of in-office skin care treatments are all the rage right now. They are posted on Instagram, YouTube, and all over the Internet. While some are very constructive and budget-friendly, others are ineffective or downright dangerous. We asked Dr. Gretchen Frieling, who is a Boston area Dermatopathologist, to highlight several highly publicized methods that should bear the warning, “don’t try this at home.”
Dermaplaning- Dermaplaning is a cosmetic procedure that removes the top layers of your skin. The procedure aims to remove fine wrinkles and deep acne scarring, as well as make the skin’s surface look smooth. It usesan exfoliating blade to skim dead skin cells and hair from your face.
The Risks- Anecdotally, the risk of infection, complications, and experiencing pain during home dermaplaning is higher when you do it yourself. “If you have acne, there is a chance that the blade could nick a pimple,” says Dr. Frieling which means it would take longer to heal. In addition, the tool used for dermaplaning is not a safety razor like what we ladies shave with. The device or tool used to accomplish the dermaplaning on the face is made of a sharp blade with a handle or wand.
At home “Derma-Rollers” for MicroNeedling” Aestheticians and dermatologists use derma rollers on clients to increase elasticity, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and help with discoloration. Professional treatment can cost anywhere from $100 to $1,200 per session. According to Marketwatch, “A trend report for 2018 from lifestyle site Pinterest says it’s seen a 345% increase in posts for the “derma-roller” over the past year.” Dr. Frieling is not in favor of using the tools at home because, “the needles aren’t big enough to penetrate the proper holes into the skin, so you’re essentially damaging your face for no reason. And without proper sterilization, derma rollers can harbor harmful bacteria causing infections, breakouts, and can trigger skin conditions such as rosacea, which causes redness and bumps on the face; eczema, itchy inflammation spots; and brown patches on the skin.”
Injecting Botox or other “Black Market” Filler into Your Face- First, even if you were able to get your hands on “real” Botox or filler such as Juvederm or Restylane® it’s almost like putting a firearm in the hands of someone untrained at shooting. There is no safe way to give yourself Botox. You can’t trust what you’re buying, and even if you could, no amount of YouTube-ing will ever adequately teach you the skills you need to inject it. First, you need to know where to inject the substance. The answer is not to point the needle at the fine lines. After all, you’re relaxing muscles, not filling in wrinkles. Injecting Botox requires an understanding of facial muscles. You need to know which muscles should be relaxed for the desired results and where to target them. Second, you need to know how deeply to insert the needle and how much of the mixed substance you should apply in any given location.
Incorrect injection practices can lead to a host of complications, including eyelid drooping (ptosis), excessive swelling, excessive bruising, and a greater risk of infection. In fact, the infection may become so severe that it becomes a staph infection, an infection that spreads throughout the body and causes a variety of diseases. In any case, recovery will be longer, and the results may not be what you intended.
Lip Plumper Suction Devices- We have Kylie Jenner to thank for these! They aremuch less expensive than filler in the lips but with a far shorter shelf life. Dr. Frieling’s verdict: “Overuse of suction cup lip plumpers can cause misalignment of the teeth due to the outward pressure of the suction. Devices such as these can also cause swelling and bruising of the lips (and sometimes permanent scarring) when used excessively. The advice is to use these devices sensibly and with caution.”
At home acne extractors- The county has become obsessed with popping pimples thanks in part to the success of the TV show “Dr. Pimple Popper.” Acne extractors sold online, and people are using them at home. But should they? Picking causes scars or scabs by ripping off the top layer of skin, whereas extracting by a professional pulls out the fluids or solids inside a pimple. It's far more sterile, sanitary, and cleans the pore of the extra debris. Why can’t you simply do this yourself? Acne extraction, be it white or blackheads, is a ‘don’t try this at home procedure.’ It’s a one-way ticket to scarring, infection and even more breakouts. Only through a professional facial will your skin be prepped and steamed correctly for extractions – by the hands of a trained, licensed esthetician. Skin that has not been adequately prepped for extractions may be resistant, requiring more pressure and manipulation. If used too aggressively, the pressure of the extractor tool can inflame and even bruise the skin. Additionally, a skin care professional is well-practiced in gentle and efficient movements to maximize results while minimizing potential harm.
Cuticle Cutters-Trimming or cutting cuticles during a manicure is purely cosmetic and doesn't benefit the nail in any way. In fact, it's actually harmful to your nails. “The small area of skin is there to protect your nails from infection. When this skin is removed, your nail is left unprotected from bacteria and fungus. Dr. Frieling recommends pushing back the cuticles by applying cuticle remover on each nail.
Chemical Peels- Chemical peels are designed to work by removing part of the top layer of skin to reveal fresher skin for a more youthful appearance. Many products containing low concentrations of acid are sold through beauty retailers and drug stores and are often safe to use. People also are treated with peels using a higher concentration at medi-spas or doctor’s offices. When it comes to alpha hydroxy acids or (AHAs) like salicylic and glycolic acids, a concentration of 10 percent or less is safe for home, and more than 30 percent should be reserved for a professional environment, according to a Food and Drug Administration advisory panel. Like many substances, illegal concentrations of chemical peels can be purchased online for substantially less than they would cost in a doctor’s office. But what price do you pay for a “bargain?” According to Dr. Frieling, “the dangers of experimenting with a medical grade peel at home are numerous and can include: extreme pain in the form of stinging, actual burns to the skin, blistering, scarring, changes in skin color, infection.” What’s more, a skin care professional will determine if you are even a candidate for a chemical peel and possibly rule you out if you have taken the acne medication isotretinoin in the past six months, have a dark complexion, have a personal history of ridged areas caused by an overgrowth of scar tissue (keloids), have abnormal skin pigmentation, have a history of frequent or severe outbreaks of cold sores.
Dr. Frieling says that there are worthwhile “skin care hacks,” DIY recipes for the skin, and some at home devices that are safe and effective. Before buying into the latest Instagram sensation, consult with your doctor first to make sure that you are a good candidate and that what you are considering is safe and effective.
Board Certified Dermatopathologist Dr. Gretchen Frieling
Dr. Frieling is a medical doctor with over 10 years of experience as a leader the Dermatopathology field. Her background is notable for intensive training in ballet, which includes attending the Juilliard School in New York City. She combines her artistic eye, perfectionistic qualities, and medical expertise, to give her patients impeccable, ‘show-stopping’ results. When it comes to cosmetic procedures, specifically injectables, Dr. Frieling has mastered the art of re-defining and re-vitalizing the face by eliminating fine lines and wrinkles and re-establishing volume. She will listen to your requests and concerns. She will explain the available procedures that would be optimal for your unique situation. She is never in a rush and will spend as much time as you desire to discuss these options.
After graduating summa cum laude from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences, Dr. Frieling completed her medical school at The University of Florida College of Medicine. She continued to excel academically and personally and pioneered a medical mission trip to the Dominican Republic to provide free medical care. After medical school, Dr. Frieling completed her training in Anatomic and Clinical Pathology at the Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital/Harvard Medical School. She then completed her Dermatopathology fellowship at the University of Vermont Medical Center. Currently, she is also a practicing Dermatopathologist in Newton, Massachusetts.
During her training, Dr. Frieling built an extensive resume, including but not limited to many articles in the Dermatology and Pathology literature, textbook chapters, and national conference presentations. She was on faculty at Harvard Medical School and participated in the first year Histopathology course.
In her spare time, Dr. Frieling continues to give back to her community and beyond. Currently, she is spearheading another medical mission to the Dominican Republic and partnering with Pedro Martinez and The Pedro Martinez Foundation.
Along with splitting her time as a practicing dermatopathologist, Dr. Frieling enjoys spending time with her husband, her two kids, and extended family, as well as volunteering in the community. She is a resident of Wellesley and loves good music and is always up for trying a new restaurant!
Board Certified Dermatopathologist Dr. Gretchen Frieling
Dr. Frieling is a medical doctor with over 10 years of experience as a leader in the Dermatology and Pathology fields. Her background is notable for intensive training in ballet, which includes attending the Juilliard School in New York City. She combines her artistic eye, perfectionistic qualities, and medical expertise, to give her patients impeccable, ‘show-stopping’ results. When it comes to cosmetic procedures, specifically injectables, Gretchen has mastered the art of re-defining and re-vitalizing the face by eliminating fine lines and wrinkles and re-establishing volume. She will listen to your requests and concerns. She will explain the available procedures that would be optimal for your unique situation. She is never in a rush and will spend as much time as you desire to discuss these options.
After graduating summa cum laude from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences, Dr. Frieling completed her medical school at The University of Florida College of Medicine. She continued to excel academically and personally and pioneered a medical mission trip to the Dominican Republic to provide free medical care. After medical school, Dr. Frieling completed her training in Anatomic and Clinical Pathology at the Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital/Harvard Medical School. She then completed her Dermatopathology fellowship at the University of Vermont Medical Center. Currently, she is also a practicing Dermatopathologist in Newton, Massachusetts.
During her training, Dr. Frieling built an extensive resume, including but not limited to many articles in the Dermatology and Pathology literature, textbook chapters, and national conference presentations. She was on faculty at Harvard Medical School and participated in the first year Histopathology course.
In her spare time, Dr. Frieling continues to give back to her community and beyond. Currently, she is spearheading another medical mission to the Dominican Republic and partnering with Pedro Martinez and The Pedro Martinez Foundation.
Along with splitting her time as a practicing dermatopathologist, Dr. Frieling enjoys spending time with her husband, her two kids, and extended family, as well as volunteering in the community. She is a resident of Wellesley and loves good music and is always up for trying a new restaurant!
Your Ultimate Winter Wellness Retreats for Christmas and New Year
Winter is coming. Our 50° to 59° latitude mean long dark nights and cold wet climates which seep into our bones, but it’s not all doom and gloom, Health and Fitness Travel, the wellness holiday specialists has the panacea. From safari adventures in South Africa and spiritual healing on the tropical island of Bali, to candle-lit treatments in Puglia and tropical hiking in Costa Rica, discover where to head this winter for a wellness retreat during the Christmas and New Year period. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, zen yogi, or spiritual gansta, ditch the ordinary, take time-out from the traditional and head wherever your wellness whims take you. With a host of exotic locations for you to visit, let’s beat those winter blues and give yourself or your loved ones the gift of well-being with these healthy holidays.
Take a break from your frantic Christmas preparations and enter the jungle sheathed paradise in Bali. Don’t start the new year frazzled, instead, welcome 2020 radiant with this rejuvenation programme that combines holistic spa therapies and sustaining nutrition to help you reclaim your natural glow. Sit back, relax and let COMO’s signature treatments work its wonders. With specialised consultations, you won’t be leaving empty handed—you’ll return home with the right tools for a new and healthy beginning.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at COMO Shambhala Estate from £3,920pp or £5,445 for single occupancy. Price includes full-board, a wellness programme and return private transfers.
Swap tradition for something more memorable this year. Journey to South Africa for a one of a kind ‘spafari’ experience set in a beautiful 3,500-hectare nature reserve. When you’re not out spotting diverse wildlife or afoot cascading waterfalls, spoil yourself with an unlimited selection of daily spa treatments including body scrubs, facials, herbal baths and massages. Here, there are no schedules to contend with, so you can enjoy every offering at your own pace, whether it be relaxing at the spa, going on private safari tours or celebrating with delectable healthy cuisine.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Karkloof Safari Villas from £4,335pp or £5,665 for single occupancy. Price is all-inclusive, a wellness programme and return private transfers.
What better way to transition through the end of the decade than with a reinvigorating cleanse? Give your body and mind the gift of replenishment with a detox retreat set in the coastal town of Estoril. This programme combines bespoke nutrition to amend your dietary habits and specialist spa treatments to further enhance your body’s natural cleansing process and reduce mental clutter. On top of your daily detox juice, enjoy holistic activities including sunrise yoga and fresh morning walks along the beautiful Estoril coast.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Palacio Estoril from £1,200pp or £1,575 for single occupancy. Price includes full-board, a wellness programme and return private transfers.
If you’re looking for an all-encompassing wellness getaway that includes everything from fitness, nutrition and mindfulness, this retreat has you covered. No experience is the same in this tropical infused programme, tailored for everyone’s goals and perfect for a flexible transition to an effective lifestyle change. Following an active cleanse and food-as-medicine philosophy, the retreat champions the power of movement to help you lead a healthier life. Guests can choose to be as active as they wish with a multitude of fitness classes or as relaxed with massage treatments, meditation and mindfulness workshops.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Phuket Cleanse from £1,625pp or £2,165 for single occupancy. Price includes full-board, a wellness programme and return private transfers.
With all the Christmas treats up for grabs, it’s harder to keep your diet on track. Beat the Santa belly this festive season with a weight management retreat at this luxury wellness hideaway in South Africa where game drives and detoxing are not mutually exclusive. The programme is designed to improve your metabolism using specialist detox treatments and bespoke nutrition. It also aims to correct eating habits by working through your emotional triggers on lifestyle and nutrition workshops, giving you the right tools to continue your weight-loss journey long after your stay.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Phuket Cleanse from £3,280pp or £3,905 for single occupancy. Price includes full-board, a wellness programme and return private transfers.
A million miles away from the classic white (or let’s be honest with ourselves, grey) Christmas in the UK, Oman offers warmer weather, private sandy beaches and spectacular mountain views. With customised training, the functional fitness programme focuses and delivers on personal goals whether it be toning, fitness, strength or flexibility. Enjoy an array of exhilarating experiences as you swap the daytime TV for trekking and tandem paragliding, then bring the New Year in in style with a chartered yacht or sunset cruise for the winter holiday of your dreams.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Zighy Bay from £4,350pp or £7,370 for single occupancy. Price includes breakfast, a wellness programme and return private transfers.
Set in a rural castle in beautiful Puglia, Italy, this decadent retreat finds itself quietly removed from the frantic buzz of city life. Experience wellness in the lap of luxury with private fitness sessions, lavish spa treatments and a healthy gastronomy for the senses. Following a holistic approach, indulge in an extensive list of natural body care therapies to soothe you into deep relaxation. Candle-lit walkways spread throughout the grounds, multiple restaurants suit any taste buds and an array of health and wellness facilities accommodate a wealth of complimentary activities.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 6 nights at Borgo Egnazia from £2,415pp or £3,475 for single occupancy. Price includes full-board, a wellness programme and return private transfers.
A luxury hotel turned dedicated wellness resort, Amatara has become a benchmark for luxury wellness in Phuket over the years. Set atop a cliff overlooking Cape Panwa, almost every corner of the retreat is bound to jaw-dropping ocean views and extraordinary sunsets. De-stress in the most idyllic surroundings while sampling a range of relaxing spa therapies, including the world’s first Thai Hammam. Backed by ‘wellness cuisine’ and a variety of functional fitness activities, it’s the ideal healthy break that checks all your boxes.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Amatara from £2,320pp or £2,810 for single occupancy. Price includes full-board, a wellness programme and return private transfers.
Give yourself the gift of winter wellness this festive season during a holiday of yuletide yoga in India. With private yoga sessions tailored to suit your goals and skills, this specialist yoga retreat is suitable for both beginners and experienced yogis alike. Including instruction in asana (physical posture), pranayama (breathing) and meditation, start your New Year feeling physically renewed and mentally inspired. As well as daily yoga practice, allow your body to be nurtured with personalised Ayurvedic spa therapies and nutritious, organic cuisine from the on-site farm.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Atmantan from £2,815pp or £3,780 for single occupancy. Price includes accommodation, full board, a Yoga programme and transfers.
Reconnect in Costa Rica this winter on a holistic holiday, set upon a quartz mountain with breath-taking views of the Pacific Ocean. Reduce stress with The Retreat’s organic farm-to-spa therapies and regain the balance of a healthier lifestyle with nutritionally dense, clean cuisine. Begin Christmas Day with a reviving yoga session and forest hike, before swapping the traditional turkey for a superfood smoothie and fresh, farm-to-table ingredients. Enjoy a healthier, more relaxing winter holiday, where spiritual connectedness, healthy living and self-care are the ultimate focus.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 6 nights at The Retreat from £1,270pp or £1,840 for single occupancy. Price includes accommodation, full board, a wellness programme and transfers.
Health and Fitness Travel is a global luxury wellness travel company that originated in the UK in 2010 and is committed to providing healthy holidays that enhance and change lives. Created by Paul Joseph and Adam Heathcote as a result of their passion for health and fitness travel and offering bespoke holidays to improve people’s well-being to lead happier and healthier lives.
Health and Fitness Travel offers clients a tailor-made seamless service with the very best health and fitness holidays, handpicked by its expert team, together with exclusive and added value packages with the best deals. As leading specialists, Health and Fitness Travel has also created their own collection of trademark healthy holidays in various destinations which include Fusion Fitness™ BodyBreaks™ and Discover Recover™, offering clients the best value and holiday experience. For more information visit: www.healthandfitnesstravel.com
Cocktail proves toxic to leukemia cells Rice University, MD Anderson research points toward better personalized therapy
HOUSTON – (Oct. 31, 2019) – A combination of drugs that affect mitochondria — the power plants inside cells — may become the best weapons yet to fight acute myeloid leukemia, according to Rice University researchers.
A study led by Rice bioscientist Natasha Kirienko and postdoctoral researcher Svetlana Panina found that mitocans, anti-cancer drugs that target mitochondria, are particularly adept at killing leukemia cells, especially when combined with a glycolytic inhibitor, while leaving healthy blood cells in the same sample largely unaffected.
Their open access paper, a collaboration with the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, appears in the Nature journal Cell Death & Disease. The research could lead to new ways to personalize treatment for patients with leukemia.
“We started with the idea of finding an underlying connection between types of cancer and their sensitivity to specific kinds of chemotherapeutics, mitochondria-targeting drugs,” Kirienko said. “Our bioinformatic analysis, which included 60 cell lines from nine different cancer types, showed that leukemia cells are particularly sensitive to mitochondrial damage.”
The researchers exposed the cell lines to multiple known mitocan molecules. They found low doses of a mitocan/glycolytic inhibitor cocktail killed all of the leukemia cell lines they tested at concentrations lower than what was necessary to kill healthy cells. Conversely, they reported that solid tumor cells, like ovarian cancers, proved highly resistant to mitocans. Glioblastoma cells were sensitive to mitocans, but unfortunately more resistant than healthy blood cells.
In their best experimental results, 86% of targeted leukemia cells were killed, compared to only 30% of healthy blood cells. “A number of drugs currently used in the clinic have some cancer preference, but here we're talking about a five-fold difference in survival,” Kirienko said.
The researchers also showed a significant correlation between how efficiently mitochondria can turn energy from incoming oxygen into useful adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and how resistant they are to treatment.
“The more efficient they are, the more resistant they will be to mitochondria-targeting drugs,” Kirienko said. “If this holds true, doctors can perform a relatively simple test of this specific parameter of mitochondrial health from a patient's sample and predict whether the treatment would be effective.”
Panina said computational models led them to think the glycolysis pathway could be enlisted to help mitocans. “Glycolysis also provides ATP, so targeting that will decrease energy as well as block the precursor for energy production in mitochondria, which mitocans will exacerbate further,” she said. “It led us to believe this combination would have a synergistic effect.
“Cancer cells are usually more metabolically active than normal cells, so we predicted that they be might be more sensitive to this combined strike, and they are,” Panina said.
Kirienko said a presentation of the research she and Panina gave at MD Anderson’s recent Metabolism in Cancer Symposium drew a large response. “People were very interested, and they immediately started asking, ‘Did you test my favorite drug or combination?’ and ‘Are you going to test it in a wider panel of cancers?’”
That work is well underway, Panina said. “We’re currently doing high-throughput screening of these potential synergistic drug combinations against leukemia cells,” she said. “We’ve gone through 36 combinations so far, building landscapes for each one.”
“And we found some that are more effective than what's reported in this paper,” Kirienko added. “But we’ve also found some that are antagonistic — two drugs that negate each other’s effects — so it's also important to know what therapeutic cocktails should not go together.”
Co-authors of the paper are postdoctoral fellow Natalia Baran; Marina Konopleva, a physician-scientist and professor in the Department of Leukemia at MD Anderson; and Rice graduate student Fabio Brasil da Costa. Kirienko is an assistant professor of biosciences.
The Cancer Prevention Research Institute of Texas, the Welch Foundation and the National Institutes of Health supported the research.
Microscope images taken at Rice University show acute myeloid leukemia cells before (top) and after treatment with a combination of a mitocan cancer drug and a glycolytic inhibitor at concentrations lower than what was necessary to kill healthy cells. Two dyes were used to stain the cells: Blue dye stained all of the cancer cells while a red dye stained only dead cells, which show up as purple in the bottom image. (Credit: Kirienko Lab/Rice University)
Rice University bioscientists Natasha Kirienko, left, and Svetlana Panina found a cocktail of cancer-fighting mitocan molecules and a glycolytic inhibitor is effective at fighting acute myeloid leukemia. The discovery could lead to better personalized treatment of the disease. (Credit: Jeff Fitlow/Rice University)
Located on a 300-acre forested campus in Houston, Rice University is consistently ranked among the nation’s top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice has highly respected schools of Architecture, Business, Continuing Studies, Engineering, Humanities, Music, Natural Sciences and Social Sciences and is home to the Baker Institute for Public Policy. With 3,962 undergraduates and 3,027 graduate students, Rice’s undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio is just under 6-to-1. Its residential college system builds close-knit communities and lifelong friendships, just one reason why Rice is ranked No. 1 for lots of race/class interaction and No. 4 for quality of life by the Princeton Review. Rice is also rated as a best value among private universities by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance.
Two weeks remaining for 2020 Commonwealth Youth Awards entries
31 October 2019For immediate releaseYoung people wishing to apply for the 2020 Commonwealth Youth Awards have two weeks left to submit their entries. The Commonwealth Youth Awards for Excellence in Development Work are free to enter and recognise exceptional young people in the Commonwealth who are making a difference in their communities through development work. Entries must show the tangible impact of the work linking to one of the 17 sustainable development goals. Winners will be selected based on the impact, sustainability, and level of innovation in their work.Layne Robinson, the Commonwealth’s Head of Social Policy Development, said: “We extended the deadline to midnight on 14 November 2019 in response to the high demand and interest shown by young people. The extension will give them more time to prepare their application that will reflect their amazing work.“Our young people have creative ideas, passion for the communities and a commitment to making a difference. These awards will put a global spotlight on the best of the Commonwealth’s young people and provide funds to help them scale-up the scope and reach of their projects.”Sixteen finalists will each receive a trophy, a certificate and £1,000 in cash. From 16, four regional winners will be awarded an additional £2,000 and will be invited to London to receive their award at a ceremony during Commonwealth week in 2020.The top regional winner will receive the title of Commonwealth Young Person of the Year and a total cash prize of £5,000.The awards are open to all nationals of Commonwealth countries from the ages of 15 to 29 who have been engaged in the development sector for at least a year either as a professional or a volunteer.Click here for more information about the awards, and to apply or nominate someone.Entries must be received online via the link by midnight on 14 November 2019.Learn more about the Commonwealth Youth Awards
TRAIN IT RIGHT NEWSLETTER
Sign Up and get a free 7 day Train it Right HIIT Program!
