Herbal Medicine

New Intervention for Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder Prototype Completed by SIMmersion LLC

June 30, 2008 on 7:58 am | In Uncategorized | Comments Off

Adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) frequently struggle to fit into a world that does not understand them, and aid is often more difficult find for adults than for children. SIMmersion LLC is hoping to help adults with ASD; the company recently completed a prototype of its simulation software catered to practicing and strengthening communication skills.

Columbia, MD (PRWEB) June 30, 2008 -- Adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) struggle daily to fit in to a world that does not understand them. Some have the advantage of vocational and transition support programs, but limited availability and cost hinder many of these adults from getting help. As a result, their social impairments lead to difficulty at work and social isolation. Computer software programs have been proven to help children with certain aspects of socialization, but there are currently no existing computer programs designed for adults to practice and strengthen basic conversation and communication skills. SIMmersion LLC
seeks to remediate this deficiency by announcing the completion of a prototype simulation designed to train and reinforce positive social skills for adults with ASD.

The simulation was developed under a partnership with the Catholic University of America and funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) through a Small Business Innovative Research grant. Program users talk with simulated character Sam Martin, whom they meet at a neighborhood party. They can get to know Sam by asking questions about his job, the school he is attending, and his personal life; in turn, Sam will respond and ask questions to get to know the user. Sam behaves and responds differently during each simulated conversation, allowing for repeated practice that can be generalized to real world peer-to-peer conversations.

The goal of this SIMmersion training simulation is to provide an immersive, realistic environment for adults with ASD to practice and improve their social conversation skills while receiving real-time support and feedback from an on-screen Coach and other embedded help features. As a result of using the simulation, members of this population have the potential for increased opportunities for successful interactions with peers, greater inclusion in work, social, and educational groups, increased job retention, and better overall quality of life.

For Dr. Dale Olsen, Founder and CEO of SIMmersion LLC, creating simulations with such a profound social impact has always been a priority. "Our goal is to dramatically improve the lives of people with autism spectrum disorder and those who love and support them," said Olsen. "This was one of the reasons SIMmersion was started over five years ago."

SIMmersion LLC teamed with Cheryl Trepagnier, Ph.D., Research Professor from the Catholic University of America to generate content for the e-learning material that accompanies the simulation as well as informing the teaching goals for the simulation. "This unique technology has great potential for helping people with ASD. I can see almost unlimited applications for SIMmersion simulations to help with real social interaction," said Trepagnier.

SIMmersion LLC recently submitted a proposal to the NIMH for funding to expand the prototype into a full-featured, multimedia, interactive simulation. The current prototype simulation is not available for sale or distribution; however, the fully developed product will be sold to individuals with ASD and their families, as well as social, educational, and professional organizations who assist people with ASD.

SIMmersion LLC creates exceptionally realistic interactive simulations that help learners build, practice, and retain communication skills. SIMmersion simulations allow users to conduct face-to-face conversations with simulated characters. Professional actors are used to create life-like, challenging situations. Each simulated character has memory and an advanced emotional model that allows the character to respond to the user's statements as a real person would. The result is a nearly free-form conversation that is different each time the simulation is used. Users receive feedback through the non-verbal cues of an on-screen coach, quantitative scoring at the end of each interaction, and instant replay features.

For more information, go to SIMmersion.com

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eDrugSearch.com Surpasses 100,000 Prescription Drug Listings from U.S. and Canadian Pharmacies Preapproved for Safety

June 30, 2008 on 7:58 am | In Uncategorized | Comments Off

eDrugSearch.com, the comparison shopping site for prescription drug consumers, has expanded its search engine to include more real-time prescription drug listings than any other resource of its kind on the Web.

San Antonio, TX (PRWEB) June 30, 2008 -- eDrugSearch.com, the popular prescription drug shopping site and social network, announced today that its search engine now includes more than 100,000 real-time drug listings from its 36 member pharmacies -- making eDrugSearch.com the most comprehensive resource for prescreened Internet pharmacies available online.

Cary Byrd is the entrepreneur behind eDrugSearch.com, the popular comparison shopping site and social network for prescription drug consumers.

"In recent months, eDrugSearch.com has teamed with our member pharmacies to ensure that every medication in their inventories, in all quantities and dosages, is reflected in our database," said Cary Byrd, founder and president of eDrugSearch.com. "This has increased the listings in our system by more than 50 percent -- further empowering consumers to find the lowest prices available for prescription drugs online."

eDrugSearch.com's new system makes it easier for member pharmacies to keep consumers up to date on their drug inventories and prices, Byrd said.

"We've made a number of upgrades to the site to improve the experience of member pharmacies," Byrd explained. "Previously, pharmacies were required to log in to the eDrugSearch.com database and add products and feeds to their listings manually; now, we process all their data for them on an ongoing basis, ensuring that their complete inventories are listed in our system, along with the latest prices."

Byrd said his site also has made additional improvements based on customer feedback to enhance the end-user experience.

"We're always learning from our registered users, and we're always working to make our drug search algorithm more efficient for them," Byrd said. "Most recently, we've improved the quality of results for multi-word searches, we've upgraded the 'suggest search' feature, and we've given our customers more options for sorting results."

The eDrugSearch.com Story

eDrugSearch.com launched in January 2007 as a vertical search engine for Americans interested in purchasing safe, low-cost prescription drugs from prescreened international pharmacies. eDrugSearch.com brings together licensed and accredited pharmacies from around the world in one easy-to-use database.

Approximately 70 million Americans live without prescription drug insurance today. While many are interested in Canadian or other international pharmacies to save money on their
prescriptions, they are often concerned about whether they can trust the quality and safety of prescription medications online.

eDrugSearch.com addresses these concerns by only accepting Internet pharmacies upon completion of a rigorous preapproval process - including establishing proof of home-country government licensing and third-party accreditations.

In addition to emphasizing safety, eDrugSearch.com offers up-to-the-minute price search, detailed drug information, and other features that make it the most advanced shopping engine for online prescription medication shoppers.

In February 2008, eDrugSearch.com introduced the eDrugSearch.com Community, the first social network for prescription drug consumers -- enabling users to rate and review pharmacies, share experiences, and make friends and join groups around similar medication interests.

Consumers can register for a free membership with eDrugSearch.com at the following url: http://www.edrugsearch.com/register.

About eDrugSearch.com
Based in San Antonio, eDrugSearch.com is the Health 2.0 social network and comparison shopping site for U.S. consumers seeking prescription medications from prescreened Canadian and other international pharmacies. eDrugSearch.com's social network empowers members to rate and review pharmacies, share experiences with other members, and more. eDrugSearch.com president and founder Cary Byrd is an impassioned advocate for reform of U.S. prescription-drug law. For more information, visit the company's Web site at www.eDrugSearch.com or its blog at www.edrugsearch.com/edsblog.

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Ringing in the 4th of July with Fireworks

June 30, 2008 on 7:58 am | In Uncategorized | Comments Off

Noted ENT addresses damaging hearing and ear health affects of loud fireworks.

Edison, NJ, (PRWEB) June 30, 2008 -- As we approach the Fourth of July, much of the attention on fireworks safety is in regards to physical safety of the hands, fingers, etc., but did you know that letting freedom ring a little too loudly this Fourth of July can be harmful to your hearing, too?

Americans love to celebrate July Fourth with firecrackers, music and marching bands, but too much noise pollution, even one incident of very loud noise, can lead to developing tinnitus (ringing in the ears) or other hearing damage. "Think about ear care like skin care during the summer months," advises Andrew Cheng, M.D., an otolaryngologist and clinical assistant professor in the Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery at New York Medical College and ear health advisor for Lipo-Flavonoid (http://www.lipoflavonoid.com) , a clinically-proven, dietary supplement that has shown promising relief for tinnitus sufferers. "When you pack the sunscreen for the Fourth of July picnic, also include a few pairs of disposable ear plugs for the evening fireworks show, for you and your kids."

"Most people will develop tinnitus (ringing in the ears) or suffer a loss of hearing after being exposed to high levels of noise pollution over a period of time," adds Cheng. "But, in some cases it may only take one exposure at the town fireworks show to cause permanent damage."

How Loud is Too Loud?

Noise is measured in units called decibels, on a scale from zero to 140. The higher the number in decibels, the louder the noise. The louder the noise, the greater the risk of developing tinnitus or even hearing loss. "Tinnitus or hearing loss can occur with regular exposure to noise levels of 110 decibels or more for periods longer than one minute," adds Dr. Cheng.

Some typical summer sounds at the local fireworks show and their decibel levels:

• Music concert (120)
• Exploding firecrackers (150)
• Watching fireworks (130 to 190, depending on how far away you are).

After the Smoke Clears and the Damage is Done:

If you are unlucky enough to develop tinnitus, you should know there are some treatments available for tinnitus, or ringing in the ear, however, there is no real cure. Doctors suggest making lifestyle and dietary changes to help ease the intensity of the "ringing" (which can also appear as a whooshing or buzzing sound) including:

• Avoiding caffeine or alcohol
• Managing stress
• Avoiding exposure to additional loud noises which can aggravate tinnitus further (invest in a good pair of ear plugs).
• Taking Lipo-Flavonoid, a nutritional supplement that contains a complex of B vitamins proven to help decrease the intensity of tinnitus. Dr. Cheng recommends it to his tinnitus patients because he sees improvement in seven out of 10 patients. The exact formulation of ingredients in Lipo-Flavonoid® has been clinically-tested to demonstrate relief.
• Controlling blood pressure
• Decreasing salt/sodium intake

If you're still not hearing well or your ears feel odd after several days, Dr. Cheng recommends making an appointment with an ear, nose and throat doctor or your health care provider. "Cherish your hearing; take precautions all year round," he concludes.

For more information or to take an online quiz to assess your hearing health and to receive a free pair of ear plugs (while supplies last), visit http://www.stopearringing.com .

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US Drug Watchdog Expands Its National Investigation Into The Drug Called Digitek, And Would Like To Talk To Possible Victims

June 30, 2008 on 7:58 am | In Uncategorized | Comments Off

Americas Watchdog's US Drug Watchdog has expanded its national investigation of the drug called Diditek. In April 2008, Actavis Towtowa recalled all lots of Bertek and UDL Laboratories Digitek (digoxin tablets, USP, all strengths) for oral use, due to a manufacturing defect. Since that time many consumers or their families have received notification of the drugs recall. The US Drug Watchdog wants to talk to any consumer who took this drug and suffered any side affects or complications to include death. Consumers who were exposed to this drug can call the US Drug Watchdog anytime at 866-714-6466.

(PRWEB) June 30, 2008 -- Americas Watchdog's US Drug Watchdog has just expanded its national investigation into the drug called Digitek. According to the Food & Drug Administration (FDA), "the Digitek defect could expose users to twice the amount of active ingredient, which could cause serious and even fatal reactions". The best known side affect of this drug is death. If you or a loved one suffered an injury after taking Digitek, the US Drug Watchdog wants to talk with you. A victim or a family member can call the group anytime at 866-714-6466.

What Kind Of Drug Is Digitek?

Digitek is a form of digitalis, a chemical derived from the foxglove plant that has been used as a heart medicine since the 18th century. The medication is sold generically as digoxin by several companies.

The Digitek defect could expose users to twice the amount of active ingredient, which could cause serious and even fatal reactions.
Digitalis medicines strengthen the force of the heartbeat by increasing the amount of calcium in the heart's cells. When the medicine reaches the heart muscle, it binds to sodium and potassium receptors. These receptors control the amount of calcium in the heart muscle by stopping the calcium from leaving the cells. As calcium builds up in the cells, it causes a stronger heartbeat. Again if you have taken this drug or were exposed to it please call the US Drug Watchdog at 866-714-6466.

Consumers who took this drug can visit their web site at http://USDrugWatchdog.com

So What Happened?

On April 25, 2008 Actavis Towtowa recalled its Digitek tablets because there existed a possibility that tablets with double the appropriate thickness may have been commercially released. The FDA deemed the Digitek recall a Class I recall, meaning that the defective Digitek tables could cause serious health problems or death. Most if not all US consumers have now been told not to take Digitek by their physician or pharmacist. If a family member of a person who was taking Digitek & then died received the recall letter, please call the US Drug Watchdog at 866-714-6466. The recall letters should have been received in early May 2008.

What Are The Risk Health Risks Associated With Digitek?

A double-strength Digitek tablet poses a serious risk of digitalis toxicity in those patients suffering from renal failure. Digitalis toxicity can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, confusion, loss of appetite, low blood pressure, cardiac instability and irregular pulse, heart palpitations, and bradycardia. Bradycardia is a slower than normal heartbeat rate.Vision changes such as halos or light rings around objects, seeing lights and bright colors, experiencing changes in color perception, blind spots in vision, and blurred vision can also occur. Patients suffering digitalis toxicity can also experience decreased urine output and excessive nighttime urination, overall swelling, decreased consciousness, and difficulty breathing when lying down. At its most severe, death can result from excessive Digitalis intake.

Both Actavis and the FDA said retailers who have Digitek tablets in stock should return the product. Consumers with medical questions should contact their health care providers. Consumers were also can obtain more information on the Digitek recall by calling the US Drug Watchdog at 866-714-6466.

If a family member died or has suffered other side affects related to the possible use of Digitek Americas Watchdog is available to consumers or their family members 24-7 at 866-714-6466

Americas Watchdog and its US Drug Watchdog is all about consumer protection and corporate fair play.

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Amco Agency Offer for Sale: The Business and/or Assets of A.F. Gaskin Ltd, Mouldmakers & Precision Engineers of High Wycombe, UK

June 30, 2008 on 7:58 am | In Uncategorized | Comments Off

30 years of precision engineering excellence falls victim to the credit crunch.

London, United Kingdom (PRWEB) June 30, 2008 -- On Behalf of the Administrator, Anthony Hyams of Marriotts LLP London. Amco Agency offer for sale: The business and/or assets of A.F. Gaskin Ltd, Mouldmakers & Precision Engineers of High Wycombe, UK.        

A.F. Gaskin is a well respected quality Precision engineering company based in Naphill near High Wycombe in the UK. This location is close by the M25 and M40 Motorways giving easy access to the Midlands, the South west and all Four of London's Airports.

A. F. Gaskin was established in 1970 and has a tradition of high quality workmanship and a wealth of experience to draw on. Gaskin specilaises in Mouldmaking.

Today Gaskin uses a mixture of traditional and modern equipment to maintain the quality and craftsmanship whilst meeting today's shorter deadlines. Gaskin's plant includes high-speed, five-axis milling equipment, and EDM machinery.

The facility is equipped to produce complex tools weighing up to 5 tonnes for plastic injection, LSR, carbon fibre and die casting.

Gaskin's customer base covers industries including Automotive, Medical, Baby Care and Electronics including Tier 1 suppliers, OEM's and major Trade Moulders.

Gaskin's quality system is designed to operate to and comply with BS EN ISO 9001. The company operates a very comprehensive Design Department using 5 seats of CATIA, along with Delcam Powershape and Auto Cad support.

See more at www.afgaskin.co.uk.

Michael Charles of Amco said, "This is a well established enclave of engineering excellence that deserves to survive. Everyone we have contacted regarding the company speaks highly of its staff and services."

The company has no significant forward order book and of course could be relocated if required. Amco are seeking offers for the company or expressions of interest for all or parts of the plant and equipment.

A sales Memorandum is being prepared and a detailed list of the plant and equipment will be available shortly at www.a406.com/Gaskin.

Interested parties are requested to contact Michael Charles of Amco Agency +44 (0)8452 300 700 or Email: mc @ amco-agency.co.uk. A non disclosure agreement will be required prior to the release of the sales memorandum.

Michael Charles, F.N.A.V.A
Amco Agency Limited
Suite 501 International House
223 Regent Street
London W1B 2QD
Telephone +44 (0)8452 300 700
Website: www.amco-agency.co.uk
Email: mc @ amco-agency.co.uk

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