Do2Learn.com Offers JobTIPS for Individuals with Autism

Diposting oleh Rick Jhonson | 23.00

Do2Learn.com Offers JobTIPS for Individuals with Autism

 

Do2Learn.com Offers JobTIPS for Individuals with Autism

 
 

Online resource helps individuals with autism be successful in the workforce

RALEIGH, N.C., April 1, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Do2Learn.com, an innovative, online provider of educational resources for individuals with special needs, is expanding its website to include JobTIPS. JobTIPS offers free "how to" interactive materials for individuals with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other special needs to help them evaluate, identify, and maintain employment. "Finding and holding onto a job is difficult for everyone these days, but people with ASD may be at particular disadvantages," noted Thomas R. Insel, M.D., director of the National Institute of Mental Health, part of National Institutes of Health. Symptoms of ASD like social impairment, communication difficulties, and repetitive and stereotyped behaviors often pose major barriers for sustaining employment. JobTIPS also targets educators, job coaches, clinicians, and special education staff who support individuals with ASD, as they transition out of high school and into vocational, education or other post-secondary activities. JobTIPS creator Dorothy Strickland, Ph.D., President of Virtual Reality Aids Inc. and do2Learn.com, said, "Successful employment is the key to greater independence for individuals with ASD. JobTIPS aims to equip these young adults with the right resources to help them optimize their potential and at a level where employers see and appreciate the unique skills and talents they have to offer." Estimates indicate that the cost of caring for a person with autism is more than $3 million during his or her lifetime. "With 1 in 110 children being diagnosed with autism, there is a critical need as a society to do more to help young adults on the spectrum transition more effectively into the workplace," said Susan Wilczynski, Ph.D., BACB-D, and Executive Director of the National Autism Center. "Many people with autism spectrum disorders are capable of joining the workforce and being tax-contributing members of our communities. Yet the number employed is relatively low due to lack of access to information and supports that would result in gainful employment. JobTIPS helps fill this critical need by using technology that is accessible to adults throughout the country." JobTIPS offers hundreds of detailed modeling videos, print guides, real-world tips, checklists, and scheduling exercises to help students learn what it takes to land a job, and then to be successful on the job. Additionally, the website is conveniently accessible from smart phones, tablet computers, and other remote devices. JobTIPS was created by a team of educators, clinicians, teachers and parents and made possible through the support of a National Institutes of Health Stimulus Grant, funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). To learn more, visit www.do2Learn.com. About Do2Learn Do2Learn provides free web-based tools and solutions based on scientific research and clinical experience to help individuals with disabilities and the professionals and caregivers who serve them. This learning material was developed to target specific deficits of individuals with neurological disorders including ASD, fetal alcohol effects, intellectual disabilities, attention disorders, learning and communication disorders and others.  Visit www.do2Learn.com today.

Contact:

Dorothy Strickland


do2Learn.com


919.755.1809


Strickland@do2Learn.com



SOURCE Do2Learn

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BMA Management Selects Dakim BrainFitness to Help Preserve Brain Health for Residents in 14 Assisted Living Communities

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BMA Management Selects Dakim BrainFitness to Help Preserve Brain Health for Residents in 14 Assisted Living Communities

 

BMA Management Selects Dakim BrainFitness to Help Preserve Brain Health for Residents in 14 Assisted Living Communities

 
 

Dementia-Fighting System Now Used in 440 Senior Communities Nationwide

BRADLEY, Ill., March 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- BMA Management, Ltd., one of the 25 largest assisted living providers in the U.S., has selected the Dakim BrainFitness System as a key component in their health and wellness initiatives. BMA piloted the computer-based program in two of its 33 Illinois communities for a year, and now plans to expand the program to 12 additional communities during 2011. "Our company focus is on maintaining the health, wellness, dignity and independence of each resident; and we recognize that maintaining one's cognitive health is a very important aspect of successful aging," said Beth Quarles, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for BMA Management. "Dakim's program is unique in it's ability to address the brain fitness needs of each resident individually, and over the past year our residents have reported that the program has made a real difference with their memory abilities.  The expansion of the program is logical given the outcomes, and yet another reason why BMA continues to be a leading innovator in affordable senior housing." The Dakim program includes a specialized touch-screen computer and brain fitness exercises that adjust to the ability levels of each resident. Clinically tested Dakim BrainFitness cross-trains the brain in six cognitive domains using entertaining multimedia activities that contain film clips and music from seniors' past, are updated regularly, and require no computer skills – simply a tap on the screen. The self-service nature of the system minimizes the need for caregiver assistance and associated costs. Decades of medical research have associated consistent, long-term participation in cognitively stimulating activities with a significantly reduced risk of cognitive decline. Clinical trials by a major university have shown that individuals who used the Dakim program experienced significant improvements in memory retention and delayed recall. "Researchers agree that ongoing mental stimulation can help preserve brain function.  The operative word is 'ongoing' because the benefits seem to lessen if you stop. That means that a brain fitness program has to be enjoyable enough to keep people coming back for more," said Dakim CEO Dan Michel. "That's the key to Dakim BrainFitness. It's based on science, but it feels like a TV game show." Dakim is the leading provider of turnkey brain fitness programs for senior living providers, with installations in over 440 communities nationally. Dakim can be reached at 888-693-2546 or on the web at www.dakim.com. Dakim's program is also available as a software product for individual use on personal computers. BMA Management can be reached at 877-882-1495, or on the web at www.bma-mgmt.com/ SOURCE Dakim

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NAMI Pennsylvania Previews Upcoming Cherry Blossom Ball

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NAMI Pennsylvania Previews Upcoming Cherry Blossom Ball

 

NAMI Pennsylvania Previews Upcoming Cherry Blossom Ball

 
Featuring Celebrity Chef Michael Schulson HARRISBURG, Pa., March 29, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Alliance on Mental Illness of Pennsylvania (NAMI PA) is pleased to unveil plans for the second annual Cherry Blossom Ball to take place April 2nd at the Loews Philadelphia Hotel. The event, open to the public, will include a one-of-a-kind celebration with a special cocktail reception featuring special guest Executive Chef and Restaurateur Michael Schulson, dinner dance featuring the award-winning Philadelphia band Big Ric Rising, as well as a silent auction. NAMI PA welcomes one of Philadelphia's most exclusive chef's, Michael Schulson as a special guest to this year's Ball. Chef Schulson is the charismatic chef and owner of Izakaya in Atlantic City's Borgata Hotel, as well as the renowned Sampan in Philadelphia.  In addition, he was star of TLC's Ultimate Cake Off and the Style Network's show Pantry Raid. NAMI PA is proud to have Chef Schulson make an appearance at this year's Gala as well as create a special cocktail in honor of this year's event, the Cherry Blossom Martini. In addition, Chef Schulson will spotlight the Cherry Blossom Martini at his restaurant, Sampan, during the week of April 4th in a continued effort to raise awareness of mental illness. The Cherry Blossom Ball is a culmination of efforts of leading Pennsylvania businesses, government officials, behavioral health executives and professionals, as well as outstanding private citizens. Senators Pat Toomey and Robert P. Casey, Jr. serve for the second year on the Ball's Honorary Committee along with other prominent community leaders from the region. Both Senators have a history of supporting families and consumers who have mental illness. For more information, including tickets and sponsorship forms, please contact us at (717) 238-1514. ABOUT NAMI PA NAMI Pennsylvania is a grassroots self-help, support, education and advocacy organization, with more than 60 affiliate chapters across the state, with more than 9,000 members, including consumers, their families, advocates, and mental health professionals. SOURCE NAMI Pennsylvania

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Understanding Our Human Operating System Can Help Anyone Be More Effective and at Ease

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Understanding Our Human Operating System Can Help Anyone Be More Effective and at Ease

 

Understanding Our Human Operating System Can Help Anyone Be More Effective and at Ease

 
 

Learn how people are wired and function; study psychology of the future online, free

HAYWARD, Calif., March 31, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- An engineer's detailed explanation lays a foundation for psychology of the future. It is easy to understand and applies to management, psychotherapy and more. You don't have to understand the Operating System of your computer to use it. You try buttons, read instructions and find your way. The same is true of people. Neither people nor animals have to understand their OS to function. But without an understanding of our OS we are all limited to exploring how we work by trial and error, making observations and sharing instructions. With an understanding of our human OS, developed by William T. (Bill) Powers (called Perceptual Control Theory, PCT), we can figure out what to do in a variety of circumstances from basic principles. Henry Yin, Professor of Psychology & Neuroscience at Duke University, made this comment: "Bill Powers is one of the clearest and most original thinkers in the history of psychology. For decades he has explored with persistence and ingenuity the profound implications of the simple idea that biological organisms are control systems. His background in engineering allowed him to avoid many of the traps that have victimized even the best psychologists of the past. I believe his contributions will stand the test of time." Powers' writings, computer tutorials and simulations available for download as well as books by associates will show you that, with Powers' insight into our OS, psychology will in time become a science with the accuracy and reliability we expect in the physical and engineering sciences. Until now, psychologists have borrowed the scientific method from physical science without regard to the fact that living organisms control their environment, not the other way around. As a result, psychologists have analyzed the wrong thing, the wrong way. A scientific revolution is underway and psychology will have to start over. Anyone who chooses to study our OS Powers' way will understand psychology as well as, or better than, existing experts do, because, as Will Rogers said, "It isn't what we don't know that gives us trouble, it's what we know that ain't so." Among other things, understanding our OS lays a foundation for development of effective management skills. With respectful, insightful questioning a manager can determine what an associate is concerned about, support and modify understanding and goals. This leads to mutual insight, teamwork, satisfaction and high productivity. Careful listening and personal involvement are required, but results can be remarkable. Search for Jim Soldani's report Effective Personnel Management at the website. Also, understanding our OS shows the way to effective psychotherapy and resolution of internal conflict. See The Method of Levels by Tim Carey. http://www.livingcontrolsystems.com holds much information on PCT. So does http://www.pctweb.org. Notice the link to read several titles online, free. Bill Powers is available for interviews. Contact: Dag Forssell, +1 510 727-0377, dag@livingcontrolsystems.com This press release was issued through eReleases(R).  For more information, visit eReleases Press Release Distribution at http://www.ereleases.com. SOURCE Living Control Systems Publishing

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Nefsis Cloud-Based Video Conferencing Improves Desktop Connection Success Rates

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Nefsis Cloud-Based Video Conferencing Improves Desktop Connection Success Rates

 

Nefsis Cloud-Based Video Conferencing Improves Desktop Connection Success Rates

 
 

Nefsis adds more proxy support to improve desktop reach and on-demand video conferencing among remote employees, business partners and customers

SAN DIEGO, April 1, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Online video conferencing innovator Nefsis® announced today the expansion of its firewall and proxy traversal capabilities for business customers. Firewall and proxy traversal is an essential component in online video conferencing among widely dispersed participants that access the Internet from their own, separate networks. In addition to longstanding support for industry standard proxy protocols, Nefsis added several vendor-specific optimizations to its global cloud that further improve connection success rates. These improvements make it easier to hold on-demand, desktop video conferencing sessions with external participants, particularly for those in larger companies, healthcare and financial services where proxy servers are prevalent.   (Logo:  https://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110114/MM30776LOGO) "One of the big challenges in video conferencing is desktop reach – virtually all business users are behind firewalls and proxies," said Allen Drennan, Nefsis Chief Technology Officer. "IT staff can meet this challenge with gateway servers, video routers, MCUs, and other infrastructure hardware. Or, get all of the above functionality in a cloud-based online service. The cloud-based approach is less expensive and offers automatic updates as proxy standards evolve, plus no more worry about running out of ports as business video conferencing becomes more popular." Nefsis supports proxy authentication, standards including WPAD, NTLM, PAC without JSProxy, Socks5, and manual proxy configuration settings. Vendor-specific optimizations address devices such as Squid Web Proxy, Microsoft® Threat Management Gateway/ISA Server, and others. In addition, Nefsis added more fallback mechanisms for proxy servers with no installed proxy client. The added proxy support is available now to all Nefsis customers and free trial users. For a free 14-day trial of Nefsis Professional, visit Nefsis.com.   About Nefsis Headquartered in San Diego, California, Nefsis is a technology specialist in video conferencing software and cloud computing online services. The Company's global cloud provides multipoint HD video and advanced collaboration tools to business, government and educational customers in more than 45 countries worldwide. As compared to previous generations of infrastructure hardware solutions such as video routers, MCUs and gateways, the Nefsis cloud-based offering is less expensive, automatically maintained, and easier to expand. For more information, please visit http://www.nefsis.com or call +1 (858) 715-0970 in the Americas or +44 (0) 870 224 0415 in the UK and Europe. MEDIA CONTACT
Xenia Moore
Public Relations Manager
Phone: (858) 715-0970
xmoore@nefsis.com Nefsis is a registered trademark of Nefsis Corporation. Microsoft and all other trademarks mentioned are property of their respective owners. SOURCE Nefsis

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Schizophrenia: NAMI Offers Public Education; Discusses New Research on Fish Oil and Marijuana

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Schizophrenia: NAMI Offers Public Education; Discusses New Research on Fish Oil and Marijuana

 

Schizophrenia: NAMI Offers Public Education; Discusses New Research on Fish Oil and Marijuana

 

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ARLINGTON, Va., March 31, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) has launched a new website on schizophrenia and published a new brochure on the medical condition which affects more than 2.4 million American adults each year. (Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100216/NAMILOGO) Onset of schizophrenia often strikes men in their late teens or early twenties, while appearing in women in their late twenties or early thirties. The cause and course of treatment are different for each individual. "NAMI has launched the new schizophrenia website and published the new schizophrenia brochure to provide up-to-date information to individuals, families and others," said NAMI Executive Director Michael Fitzpatrick. "Everyone should know the nature of schizophrenia and its symptoms. Everyone should know the latest medical thinking on prevention, triggers and treatment." The schizophrenia brochure can be downloaded from the website at www.nami.org/schizophrenia or ordered in packets of 25 copies each for local groups, physician offices, health fairs, conferences or workplace education. The website highlights two areas of recent research relating to onset of schizophrenia:
  • "Fish oil" supplements may help prevent psychosis during critical years of brain development. Further studies are needed, but NAMI Medical Director Ken Duckworth advises individuals in their teens or twenties with early symptoms of psychosis to take Omega-3 fatty acids—available in supermarkets and pharmacies. There appear to be few risks compared to the potential benefit.
  • Smoking marijuana is increasingly seen as a causal factor that can trigger onset of schizophrenia in some people. NAMI cites three studies published in February and March 2011. As an environmental factor, marijuana is believed to "trigger" genetic factors, increasing the risk of psychotic incidents and ongoing experiences.

The schizophrenia web site includes discussion of anosognosia, more commonly known as a lack of insight. Individuals may lack awareness of their own illness—believed to be the result of problems with neurological processes in the frontal lobe of the brain. The condition can lead to tension within families and complicate treatment. NAMI offers education and support programs to individuals and families confronting schizophrenia. About NAMI NAMI is the nation's largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness .NAMI has over 1,100 state and local affiliates that engage in research, education, support and advocacy. http://twitter.com/namicommunicate
http://www.facebook.com/officialNAMI SOURCE National Alliance on Mental Illness

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Project Lifesaver International, a Non-Profit Organization With a Clear Mission to Provide: Safety, Security, and Rescue Services to "At-Risk" Individuals With Cognitive Disorders

Diposting oleh Rick Jhonson | 23.00

Project Lifesaver International, a Non-Profit Organization With a Clear Mission to Provide: Safety, Security, and Rescue Services to "At-Risk" Individuals With Cognitive Disorders

 

Project Lifesaver International, a Non-Profit Organization With a Clear Mission to Provide: Safety, Security, and Rescue Services to "At-Risk" Individuals With Cognitive Disorders

 
PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla., April 1, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Project Lifesaver International is an innovative 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization that provides safety, security, and rescue support services to "at-risk" individuals of all ages, income levels, and backgrounds who have cognitive disorders. We do this by providing police, fire/rescue and other first responders with the technology and training to quickly locate and rescue individuals who tend to wander off, including those with Alzheimer's disease, Autism, and Down syndrome. Project Lifesaver's leadership team is entirely made up of retired police executives. All of these individuals have spent their entire careers in public service and understand, all too well, the issues that an "at-risk" individual and their caregivers may have to deal with from time to time. Project Lifesaver's team also has first hand experience in the best methods of real world tracking and rescue services that first responders should employ when search, rescue, and recovery is required. As a non-profit organization, Project Lifesaver does not view this important work as a "MARKET."  Our clear and singular focus is on providing one of society's most vulnerable groups and their caregivers the support, and protection they need. We see our mission as bringing peace of mind and improving the quality of life to these high risk populations and their caregivers. Our passion is safety, security, and protection, NOT PROFIT. Other organizations have sprung up trying to imitate Project Lifesaver. Unfortunately most of those organizations are primarily motivated by commercial success rather than serving the safety and security needs of the "at-risk" community. This is due to the fact that the majority of those organizations are "For Profit" companies with a different set of priorities than a non-profit organization. "For Profit" companies exist to serve the wishes of their corporate parent company, satisfy their stakeholder's growth expectations, meet their budgets, and grow their "market" share. Non Profits exist to serve a purpose, satisfy a societal goal, meet the needs of the community, and grow the greater good. Project Lifesaver delivers the tools and training to the public safety agencies that are responding to "at-risk" individuals and their caregivers in their time of need. For more information about Project Lifesaver International and its program and technology contact: Elizabeth Kappes
Director of Media & Communication
561-847-7659 Office SOURCE Project Lifesaver International

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NAA Says Autism Awareness Month Points out Need for Better Treatments, Research and Services

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NAA Says Autism Awareness Month Points out Need for Better Treatments, Research and Services

 

NAA Says Autism Awareness Month Points out Need for Better Treatments, Research and Services

 

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Autism is a national health emergency, now affecting nearly 1% of America's children NIXA, Mo., April 2, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Autism Association (NAA) joins with organizations worldwide in recognizing April as Autism Awareness month.  With one in 110 children now diagnosed with autism, and autism mortality rates doubling that of the general population,(1) NAA is once again calling upon legislators and government health agencies to declare autism a national health emergency. Parents of children diagnosed with autism are asking for more research funding, better services, and wider access to safety equipment including tracking devices. "If you don't have a family member affected by autism, chances are you have a friend or neighbor who does," said NAA board chair Lori McIlwain. Citing a 2007 Harvard study(2) putting the lifetime care cost at $3.2 million per individual with autism needing round the clock care, Ms. McIlwain observed, "If we don't find better treatments and services, it will fall upon taxpayers to address the needs of an overwhelming number of children whose parents will one day be unable to care for them." NAA points out the following critical areas that need to be addressed on behalf of children and families affected by autism: Prevention:
  • Genetics alone cannot explain the rise in autism. Proper study into environmental exposures should be a top priority among our government, researchers and Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC).
  • Recent studies(3), (4), (5) indicate an association between the hepatitis B vaccine and brain damage.
  • A new study(6) confirms the relationship between vaccines and autism, stating that "autism is the result of genetic defects and/or inflammation of the brain." The study also points out the implications of the increasing number of vaccines given in a short period of time.
  • Parents have consistently stated that regression in their child occurred following immunizations. Further research on the increased use of vaccines is warranted and should be conducted with significant stakeholder input. Obvious research that has been ignored, such as health outcomes in vaccinated versus non-vaccinated populations must be undertaken.  
  • Certain subgroups may be more susceptible to environmental regression, including those with a family history of autoimmune disorders, premature infants, and children that are ill at the time of vaccination. Researching ways to decrease adverse vaccine reactions while increasing the safety of vaccines benefits the overall health of the general public.

Treatment:
  • Children with autism have underlying medical conditions that often go missed, dismissed or misunderstood. These conditions deserve the full attention of our government health agencies and medical community.
  • Physicians should listen to each caregiver's account of any medical issues their child with autism may have and not presume all symptoms to be behavioral.
  • Treatment, services and therapies should be available to all individuals with autism. Insurance coverage for co-morbid medical conditions should be mandated nationwide.
  • Studies on children that significantly progressed or completely lost a classic autism diagnosis should be conducted to uncover biological underpinnings.  
  • Clinical studies on promising treatments are necessary.

Support: 
  • Wandering-related deaths are on the rise among children diagnosed with autism.  So far this year, four children with autism have died from wandering away from safe environments. A wandering prevention protocol should be in the hands of every pediatrician to share with families.
  • School systems are overwhelmed by increased autism rates. Our community is in critical need of additional and properly trained special education personnel.
  • Federal legislation, The Preventing Harmful Restraint & Seclusion in Schools Act, was introduced last year to address rising abuse and unsafe practices within school systems nationwide, but was stalled in Congress, never making it to a vote before the session ended.  Legislation to protect our children should be a priority in the current Congress.  Cameras in special education classrooms are warranted, as well as stiffer penalties for those who abuse schoolchildren.
  • Families are often unable to pay for basic speech and occupational therapies. Government aid is needed for these struggling families.
  • We will soon be faced with a disproportionate number of diagnosed adults in need of housing, job assistance, and lifetime care. Preparation should begin immediately and resources allocated accordingly. 
  • The Combating Autism Act of 2006 will sunset in September. The reauthorization of this legislation is currently being drafted under the leadership of Senator Menendez. Parents and advocates need to contact their legislators and insist that the new legislation will include provisions for desperately needed research and services that will make a difference in the lives of families affected by autism.

"Autism is a national health emergency. Our hope is that the government will finally declare it as such so that proper prevention, treatments and resources will be put in place," says NAA Executive Director Rita Shreffler. "Immediate action is necessary for our community and for the public in general. The numbers are so huge now that autism really does impact each and every one of us." For more information about autism, visit www.nationalautismassociation.org.  1 Mouridsen SE, Bronnum-Hansen H, Rich B, Isager T. Mortality and causes of death in ASD: an update Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark. July 2008 2 Ganz, ML. The lifetime distribution of the incremental societal costs of autism. Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine. 2007 April 16.   3 Hewitson L, Houser LA, et al. Delayed acquisition of neonatal reflexes in newborn primates receiving a thimerosal-containing Hepatitis B vaccine: Influence of gestational age and birth weight. 2009 Oct 2.  Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States; Thoughtful House Center for Children, Austin, TX 78746, United States 4 Gallagher, C., Goodman, M. Hepatitis B Triple series vaccine and developmental disability in US children aged 1-9 years. Toxicological & Environmental Chemistry, Vol. 90, No. 5, September-October 2008, 997-1008. 5 Gallagher, C., Goodman, M. Vaccination of Male Neonates and Autism. Annals of Epidemiology, Volume 19, Issue 9, Pages  659-659 6 Ratajczak ,HV. Theoretical aspects of autism: causes--a review. Journal of Immunotoxicology, 2011 Jan-Mar;8(1):68-79. Contacts:
Rita Shreffler (Nixa, MO) 417-818-9030
Wendy Fournier (Portsmouth, RI) 401-835-5828
SOURCE National Autism Association

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Web Technology Used to Combat Heroin and Painkiller Addiction Nationwide

Diposting oleh Rick Jhonson | 23.00

Web Technology Used to Combat Heroin and Painkiller Addiction Nationwide

 

Web Technology Used to Combat Heroin and Painkiller Addiction Nationwide

 
FARMINGTON, Conn., March 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Alliance of Advocates for Buprenorphine Treatment (www.NAABT.org) is proud to report a milestone with its free www.TreatmentMatch.org service. This month the 40,000th patient reached out for help with the system. www.TreatmentMatch.org functions similar to online dating services but instead it connects patients looking for lifesaving modern addiction treatment with one or several of the few providers who are able to prescribe buprenorphine (brand name Suboxone®). Patients register anonymously at the first moment they decide to seek help and instantly upon submission of the application, area doctors are notified with an alert email. If an alerted physician decides the patient seeking treatment is a good match and the physician is not at their government-imposed patient limit, the physician responds, often saving that patient's life. Patients are contacted at all times of the day or night and on weekends and holidays. Currently there are 3,132 participating physicians nationwide, with recruitment efforts ongoing. Helping us make patients aware of this free service are a group of 3000 caring pharmacists that display literature about the service, concerned radio stations who are airing our public service announcement, Google who provided an in-kind advertising grant, and many counselors, therapists and emergency room caregivers who help patients get registered or pass out cards describing the TreatmentMatch service. The US Department of Health and Human Services says this, "Treatment needs to be readily available. Because individuals who are addicted to drugs may be uncertain about entering treatment, taking advantage of opportunities when they are ready for treatment is crucial. Potential treatment applicants can be lost if treatment is not immediately available or is not readily accessible." TreatmentMatch.org is accessible to patients 24/7 and is a fast, easy and non-intimidating way for people to reach out for help. Telemedicine physicians also use the system and can effectively cover 100% of the geography in the state in which they are licensed. Telemedicine physicians can conduct an entire visit over a video conferencing computer connection and fax or call in prescriptions to the pharmacy. This is lifesaving technology in rural areas or where there are no nearby physicians able to prescribe modern addiction treatment with buprenorphine. www.TreatmentMatch.org automatically connects patients to telemedicine physicians if available in their state. Advocates can register on behalf of patients who do not have computer access themselves. See a live real-time map of patients seeking treatment right now at: http://www.naabt.org/patients-seeking-treatment.cfm   To learn more or get a free treatment resource kit visit www.naabt.org or to reach out for help right  now visit www.TreatmentMatch.org - NAABT.org is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization- established in 2005 www.naabt.org For more information contact us at MakeContact@naabt.org SOURCE National Alliance of Advocates for Buprenorphine Treatment

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March Madness May Pose Risks for Gambling Addicts

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March Madness May Pose Risks for Gambling Addicts

 

March Madness May Pose Risks for Gambling Addicts

 
 

When a Bracket Pick Becomes More Than Just a Love for the Game

RICHMOND, Va., March 30, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- With many upsets during the first few rounds of March Madness, and many disappointments in bracket picks, there is great concern for problem gamblers during this time of year. Scores of people across the country enter brackets with friends leading up to March Madness, with high stakes both financially and emotionally for the three million gambling addicts in the U.S. today. "This has been a particularly unpredictable NCAA tournament, and problem gamblers have been hit especially hard," said Bob Cabaniss, Williamsville Wellness founder and executive director. "Being aware of the warning signs of problem gambling can help those with this compulsive and dangerous addiction." It is estimated that each year, as many as 40 million people fill out brackets -- but few succeed. Out of nearly 6 million submissions to ESPN.com, two participants correctly picked all four Final Four teams.  For those who have gambled real dollars, a loss affects both their team spirit and their bank account. It is important to note that gambling addiction is not an isolated illness. The staff at Williamsville Wellness also frequently treats depression, emotional disorders and substance abuse, as they are all commonly linked to gambling addiction. Identifying addiction warning signs can help identify whether a common pastime has slipped into a harmful addiction. Gambling Addiction Warning Signs in Adults:
  • Talks about betting frequently
  • Commits financially driven crimes (ex: check forgery, tax fraud)
  • Increase in tobacco, alcohol and drug use
  • Reads sports pages compulsively
  • Never admits to losing
  • Borrows excessive money from friends
  • Has multiple credit cards
  • Does not pay bills on time or at all
  • More irritable, restless and isolative than usual

Gambling Addiction Warning Signs in Adolescents:
  • Frequent dice or card games at home
  • Frequent school absences
  • Withdrawal from family
  • Drop in school grades and extracurricular activities
  • Lies about whereabouts
  • Increased irritability
  • Excessive internet use

Those who identify with several of the symptoms above could be a compulsive gambler and should seek counseling and treatment. Williamsville Wellness, based just outside of Richmond, Virginia, provides a rural setting where patients can focus on recovery without any distractions.  Williamsville Wellness is the only treatment facility in the United States licensed to treat gambling addiction. Alongside a highly-trained staff of psychologists, counselors and social workers, Cabaniss developed an Advanced Synergized Treatment method that combines eight different therapeutic modalities, focused entirely on the treatment of problem gambling.  No other treatment center in the U.S. offers this program. SOURCE Williamsville Wellness

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Washington, DC Tops List of Most Depressed Pro Baseball Cities, According to Data Compiled by Avvo

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Washington, DC Tops List of Most Depressed Pro Baseball Cities, According to Data Compiled by Avvo

 

Washington, DC Tops List of Most Depressed Pro Baseball Cities, According to Data Compiled by Avvo

 
 

Oakland Crying Foul at #2, Followed by Baltimore, Seattle and Houston

SEATTLE, March 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Washington, DC, whose hometown Nationals have finished in last place in all but one year since relocating from Montreal in 2005, is the unhappiest pro baseball city, according to analysis by Avvo (www.avvo.com), which offers free ratings and profiles for 90 percent of licensed doctors and lawyers in the U.S. Interestingly enough, Baltimore, located about 40 miles north of the nation's capital and home to the Orioles, who last won a World Series in 1983, is the third most depressed baseball city, with Oakland (Athletics) sandwiched between. Batting cleanup in the lineup of brokenhearted baseball cities is Seattle, then Houston, San Diego, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Chicago (Cubs fans), Pittsburgh, Denver, Los Angeles, New York (Mets fans), Tampa, Dallas, Kansas City, Detroit and Milwaukee. "Baseball fans are incredibly passionate about their teams so it's no surprise they suffer from bouts of depression and disappointment after a big loss or after the seemingly endless succession of losing seasons," said Mark Britton, founder and CEO of Avvo. Below is a list of the most depressed baseball cities (in order):
  1. Washington, DC
  2. Oakland
  3. Baltimore
  4. Seattle
  5. Houston
  6. San Diego
  7. Cleveland
  8. Cincinnati
  9. Chicago (Cubs)
  10. Pittsburgh
  11. Denver
  12. Los Angeles
  13. New York (Mets)
  14. Tampa
  15. Dallas
  16. Kansas City
  17. Detroit
  18. Milwaukee

Methodology:  Avvo reviewed data in cities that are home to 18 MLB teams that haven't won a World Series in the past 20 years, and examined the teams' on-field performance. In the nine weighted categories, cities and teams were ranked first to last. Statistics used to establish the rankings included: psychiatrists and divorce lawyers per capita (Avvo), unemployment rate (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics), drinking rate, suicide rate and mentally unhealthy days reported among adults (CDC), and medical and legal-related questions (Avvo), as well as number of days over the past three seasons each team held first place and days eliminated from first place contention (Baseball-Reference.com). About Avvo Avvo is the largest and only free website that empowers consumers to handle medical and legal matters with confidence. Avvo offers free ratings and profiles for 90 percent of practicing lawyers and 90 percent of licensed MDs in the US. This includes the editorial Avvo Rating, patient and client reviews and peer endorsements as well as experience, background information, industry achievements and disciplinary records. Avvo also offers a free Question and Answer forum, where consumers can ask questions and receive certified answers from certified doctors and lawyers.  Additionally, Avvo Legal Guides and Avvo Health Guides are free research tools, written as how-to articles covering everyday issues authored by certified lawyers and doctors. Founded in early 2006 and launched in 2007, Avvo is privately held, with funding from private investors, Benchmark Capital, Ignition Partners and DAG Ventures. For more information, visit www.avvo.com. SOURCE Avvo

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Vanda Pharmaceuticals to Evaluate Tasimelteon in Major Depression

Diposting oleh Rick Jhonson | 23.00

Vanda Pharmaceuticals to Evaluate Tasimelteon in Major Depression

 

Vanda Pharmaceuticals to Evaluate Tasimelteon in Major Depression

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Thalians to Honor Wounded Heroes and Salute Hugh M. Hefner at the Playboy Mansion

Diposting oleh Rick Jhonson | 23.00

Thalians to Honor Wounded Heroes and Salute Hugh M. Hefner at the Playboy Mansion

 

Thalians to Honor Wounded Heroes and Salute Hugh M. Hefner at the Playboy Mansion

 
LOS ANGELES, March 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The Thalians, the entertainment industry's leading nonprofit organization dedicated to the treatment of mental health, will honor Hugh M. Hefner for a lifetime of philanthropy with the annual "Mr. Wonderful" award at their 55th Anniversary Gala at the Playboy Mansion, April 30, 2011. Timothy A. Miller, M.D., Chief of the Division of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, and Executive Director and Chief Surgeon of UCLA's Operation Mend, himself a Vietnam veteran, is receiving a special award for his work healing America's wounded warriors . . . body, mind and spirit. The Thalians, long led by President Debbie Reynolds and Board Chair Ruta Lee, has raised over $30 million in support of mental health diseases ranging from Autism, Alzheimer's, Bi-Polar Disorder, and Schizophrenia, to Phobias, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, and Addictions. The beneficiary of this year's event is Operation Mend at the UCLA Health System. Operation Mend treats U.S. soldiers and veterans severely injured during service in Iraq and Afghanistan. Produced by Gilbert Adler of "Valkyrie" and "Superman Returns" fame, the evening features an all-star line-up including Jeffrey Ross, Rich Little, "Last Comic Standing's" Felipe Esparza, recording artists Joy Enriquez, Christopher and Kyle Massey, a special performance by Crystal Harris, the soon-to-be "Mrs. Hugh Hefner" and some of the industry's greatest musicians will Rock The Rabbit Stage for a once-in-a-lifetime concert. They include: Mark McGrath (Sugar Ray), Billy Morrison (The Cult), Donovan Leitch (Camp Freddy), Steve Stevens (Billy Idol), Franky Perez (Slash), Grant Fitzpatrick (Darling Stilettos) and Matt Sorum (Guns N' Roses) . Grammy Award winner and season ten "American Idol" producer Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins is Musical Director. Dancing to music by DJ Linney, amazing food, auctions, full-hosted bar and "Bunnies" round out the celebration. Past honorees include: Mickey Rooney, Clint Eastwood, Sir Roger Moore, Burt Bacharach, Phyllis Diller, Mary Tyler Moore, Ruta Lee, Sally Field, Carol Channing, Kenny Rogers, Lena Horne, Donald O'Connor, Jack Lemmon, Liza Minnelli, Count Basie, Whoopi Goldberg, Rita Hayworth, James Stewart, Angela Lansbury, Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, Debbie Reynolds, Carol Burnett, Lucille Ball, Ann-Margaret, Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis, Jr., Gene Kelly, Shirley MacLaine, Ed Sullivan, Lana Turner and Jimmy Durante. Those interested in attending the gala or supporting The Thalians and Operation Mend, call (310) 423-1040 or visit www.thethalians.org. Tickets $1,000. Download invitation and RSVP form at www.rhlgroup.com/thalians. SOURCE The Thalians

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Stress Awareness Month: How Well Are You Coping With Stress? Stress Relief Expert Lauren E. Miller Offers Quick Tips for Stress Management

Diposting oleh Rick Jhonson | 23.00

Stress Awareness Month: How Well Are You Coping With Stress? Stress Relief Expert Lauren E. Miller Offers Quick Tips for Stress Management

 

Stress Awareness Month: How Well Are You Coping With Stress? Stress Relief Expert Lauren E. Miller Offers Quick Tips for Stress Management

 
DENVER, March 30, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- According to The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, stress and anxiety is estimated to affect well over 19 million Americans and growing. "Believe it or not your stress flows directly from your thought life. Any time you perceive a situation as a potential threat to your safety or connection with others your stress hormone begins to soar. Your thoughts form your choices, how you respond to the world around you. Your choices form your life. If you focus on one thing this month may it be your thought life," says Lauren E. Miller (http://www.laurenemiller.com), author of her recently released fourth book, 99 Things You Wish You Knew Before Stressing Out! Now available on amazon.com   "You walk around your days missing vital pieces of information that you delete or distort because they do not fit with the structure of reality you have created for yourself throughout your lifetime. The problem comes when you think these impoverished views of reality are real representations of life. For example, if you have created a structure that is based on this belief: 'nothing ever works out for me,' then know that you will tune into everything that backs that belief up. Your thoughts create what you tune into, so choose wisely," she says. "You are not a victim in this process unless you choose to be. There is actually a part of your brain that tunes into what you focus on in life: The reticular activating system (RAS) is located in the brain stem and plays a major role in behavioral motivation. It is very empowering to know that you can choose how you want to view circumstances in life: as a burden to be endured or an opportunity for learning and growth." Lauren recommends taking to heart Henry Ford's famous quote:  "Whether you think that you can, or that you can't, you are usually right."   Lauren offers 3 tips to get some relief from stress:
  • Practice acuity. Start to observe those statements or responses to life that perhaps are impoverished and do not serve your sense of well being and inner peace. Become curious as to what pieces of information you might be deleting that if recovered would help to expand your options in life. The more options you can create, the less stress you will experience.
  • Remove universal quantifiers in life, they will keep you stressed out and stuck in a set belief system that does not flow with the growth of life around you: Nothing ever works out for me; nobody cares; everyone is against me; I never get noticed or appreciated; everyone gets acknowledged over me.
  • Use your RAS (reticular activating system) to help you tune into the positive in life. Focus on what is working out for you, what is beautiful, good, right and true in this world. You are in charge of your thoughts, your thoughts are not in charge of you. Seek out positive connections with those around you. Gratitude along with consistent sincerity and reverence for all of life will guide you back to inner peace every time you choose them over fear, doubt and worry.

About Lauren E. Miller Lauren has received national recognition in Redbook, Ladies Home Journal, CNBC, Lifetime and Discovery, along with the International Journal of Healing and Care. With 10 years of proven experience and 18 years of intensive extended education in the areas of anxiety relief and stress reduction, Lauren works with men and women worldwide empowering them with techniques and skills to live life without stress using one-on-one coaching, teleseminars, seminars and workshops.   As an international speaker, Lauren has shared the stage with some of today's most inspirational speakers. Her third book, "Release the Stress around Breast Cancer... with Methods and Mantras for the Mastectomies of Life," released in October 2011, was written during her own journey through stage three breast cancer. The first book in the series is entitled "Release the Stress...5 Minutes to Stress Relief around the Craze of Life at Work and at Home." Her first book is an Amazon Best Seller and Indie Book Award Winner, "Hearing His Whisper...a Journey through Cancer and Divorce." Lauren is currently working on the screenplay for her story, a dramedy (drama/comedy).   Her fourth book, "99 Things You Wish You Knew Before Stressing Out!" is now available on amazon.com. For more information please visit her website at: http://www.laurenemiller.com For interviews please contact Amy Sampson at 303-316-0441, amysampson_2004@hotmail.com.   Follow Lauren on Twitter: www.twitter.com/laurenemiller7   Sign up for Lauren's free newsletter: http://www.laurenemiller.com/?page_id=840 and receive free stress relief tips. Contact: Amy Sampson
303-316-0441
amysampson_2004@hotmail.com
SOURCE Lauren E. Miller

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Golden Meditech Chairman Increases Stake in Company

Diposting oleh Rick Jhonson | 23.00

Golden Meditech Chairman Increases Stake in Company

 

Golden Meditech Chairman Increases Stake in Company

 
HONG KONG, March 31, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- Golden Meditech Holdings Limited ("Golden Meditech" or the "Company," - 801.HK; 910801.TW) wishes to announce that the Group's Chairman, Mr. KAM Yuen and his family has purchased 11.532 million shares of the Company on March 29 & 30, 2011, at the average price of HK$1.3152 per share via a representative holding company, as per disclosed to the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearings Limited.  As a result of which, Mr. Kam and family have increased their interest in the Company from 19.88% to 20.49%. Mr. Kam is the founder of the Company with over 20 years of experience in healthcare industry in China.  Under his helm, the Group has grown from a single product medical devices producer to being a leading healthcare enterprise in China and a leader in multiple markets, including medical devices, healthcare management and cord blood banking. About Golden Meditech Holdings Limited Golden Meditech Holdings Limited is China's leading integrated-healthcare device and service operator, and the first medical device enterprise that was publicly listed outside of the PRC on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (HKEx).  Golden Meditech is a first-mover in China, having established dominant positions in medical devices and healthcare services markets over the years, thanks to its strengths in innovation and market expertise and the ability to capture emerging market opportunities.  Going forward, the Group will continue to pursue a leading position in China's healthcare industry both through organic growth and strategic expansion. For enquiries, please contact:

Investor Relations Department

Golden Meditech Holdings Limited

Address:  48/F, Bank of China Tower, 1 Garden Road, Central, Hong Kong

Tel:  +852 3605 8180

Fax:  +852 3605 8181

Email: ir@goldenmeditech.com



SOURCE Golden Meditech Holdings Limited

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