Author: medicalviseAdmin

Aug 28

Summer of climate disasters is drying up Canadian Blood Service’s donation supply

Breadcrumb Trail Links News National Local News As the country faces heat waves, floods, wildfires and droughts, the number of people showing up to donate blood has fallen dramatically Steve Thor donates blood with phlebotomist Debbie Prasad at Canadian Blood Services in Calgary on Monday, August 28, 2023. Thor was making his 121st donation having started donating when he was 17 years old. Canadian Blood Services is urging everyone who can to donate blood or plasma to help boost supplies. Gavin Young/Postmedia Article content The wildfires raging across British Columbia and Northwest Territories have pinched Canada’s blood supply, prompting a flood of cancellations — 300 of them in Kelowna, B.C. — amid the typical no-shows during the summer months. Now, other provinces, including Alberta, have been called upon to fill gaps in a waning blood inventory, a lack of which could threaten the lives of patients suffering from complications during pregnancy, children with severe anemia, accident victims, people undergoing surgery and cancer treatments, and those with kidney and liver diseases. Advertisement 2 Story continues below This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Calgary Herald ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Calgary Herald ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. REGISTER TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. Article content Article content The problem facing blood donations in B.C. and N.W.T is not unique. “Between heat waves and forest fires, torrential rains and flash floods, communities are strained, as people cope with the emergencies in front of them,” Ron Vezina, vice-president of public affairs at Canadian Blood Services, said in a statement. Several spots have opened up in Calgary’s blood donation centres, the largest of which is in the Eau Claire Market. Shamus Neeson, territory manager at the organization, said centres in Calgary have 312 open appointments between now and Labour Day. “Our hearts definitely go out to those communities that have been impacted by the events that have been going on all summer long,” said Neeson, adding that cancellations, however, mean that blood “needs to come from somewhere.” ‘Patients not taking a break’: Canadian Blood Services urge Calgarians to donate blood Ford: Why are there so many selfish Canadians who do not donate blood? But loyal donors in Calgary are often away at this time of year, Neeson said, citing the double whammy that has hit Canadian Blood Services, which sees a cancellation rate of 10 to 20 per cent. Get the latest headlines, breaking news and columns. By clicking on the sign up button you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. You may unsubscribe any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link at the bottom of our emails or any newsletter. Postmedia Network Inc. | 365 Bloor Street East, Toronto, Ontario, M4W 3L4 | 416-383-2300 Thanks for signing up! A welcome email is on its way. If you don’t see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of Headline News will soon be in your inbox. We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try again Article content Advertisement 3 Story continues below This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Article content “Long weekends are always tough for Canadian Blood Services. People are making appointments, which is great, but they’re not always able to honour those appointments,” he said. “When you look at the total amount for the entire province of Alberta, we’re sitting at just shy of 1,000 that need to be filled for Calgary, Edmonton and Red Deer.” For Canada, that number rises to 10,000. On average, every 60 seconds someone in Canada requires blood, according to Canadian Blood Services. Donated blood can only be stored for up to 42 days, leaving centres in constant need of what is commonly referred to as “the gift of life.” Calgary’s blood centres, which need at least 4,300 people a month to keep its taps flowing to the region’s hospitals, were short 538 appointments on July 21 to meet its monthly goals. And the race to fill those gaps continues. A blood donor clinic pictured at a shopping mall in Calgary, Alta., Friday, March 27, 2020. Photo by Jeff McIntosh /The Canadian Pres Fires, spurred on by climate change, have wreaked havoc in Western Canada, gobbling up vast swaths of lands, charring hundreds of homes and sending scores of residents in B.C. and N.W.T to seek temporary refuge in Calgary and its surrounding regions. Advertisement 4 Story continues below This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Article content “We’re asking everyone who can to please donate blood or plasma and to help spread the word, by inviting others to join them in donating,” Vezina said. Finding the right candidates is also a challenge, since those who are pregnant, below 17, lighter than 50 kilograms, have been inked with tattoos in the past three months, take certain prescription medications, or have travelled

Aug 28

Unvaccinated COVID patients with critical illness have higher T cell response

Researchers have found an unusual immune response in unvaccinated, critically ill COVID-19 patients that could inform future vaccines. A study by teams from the University of Sydney and UNSW, published in the journal Clinical & Translational Immunology, found cytotoxic T cell responses in critical COVID-19 cases were far greater than those in mild or asymptomatic cases. Cytotoxic T cells – also known as killer T cells or T lymphocytes – are specialised white blood cells that identify and eliminate other malfunctioning or infected cells in the body, including those from viral or bacterial infections, or even cancer. SARS-CoV-2 viruses and immune cell. Conceptual image illustrating antiviral immunity and vaccination. Credit: Science Photo Library There are two classes of T cells: Usually, these cells carry CD8 receptors, but some helper T cells, which prime cells to fight off pathogens (rather than killing problems directly) have a CD4 receptor. The team, led by Professor Jamie Triccas, a microbiologist who is acting deputy director of Sydney University’s Infections Diseases Institute, has found an unusually high number of cytotoxic CD4 cells occur in patients with critical COVID-19 (basically, they’re in ICU) who weren’t vaccinated prior to infection. Triccas’ team wanted to take an agnostic approach to analysing these samples – waiting to see if there were any associations of particular cell types with disease severity. When their computer analysis was complete, it was the CD4 cell types that surprised them. “Most of the time, it’s what we’d call those CD8 T cells that are cytotoxic, and the CD4 type that are the helper [cells]. In this case we see it’s cytotoxic CD4 T cells, which is a little bit unusual,” Triccas tells Cosmos. “You had this class of T cells that you don’t normally associate with being cytotoxic, that were now having this cytotoxic [characteristic].” While it’s unusual to see a lymphocyte more commonly known for playing a ‘helper’ role in immune responses suddenly pick up its spear and activate its ‘seek and destroy’ mode, it’s not unheard of. Previously, cytotoxic CD4s have been seen in patients with viral infections like HIV, Epstein Barr and dengue. The concern for patients is that a particularly strong immune response could cause excessive tissue damage. “Those cells, if they’ve been turned on to have a lot of this cytotoxic type ‘killing’ function, the consequence of that could be that you might get some sort of off-target effect,” says Triccas. “Because these cells are highly activated, they’re making a lot of molecules that activate the immune system and … you get too strong an immune response and you wind up causing excess damage.” Compare this to patients with more mild and even severe (but not yet critical) cases: their average percentage of more cytotoxic CD4s was markedly lower. In critical cases, they suggest the findings of cytotoxic CD4s in critically ill COVID-19 patients might contribute to tissue damage and systemic inflammation associated with death. Triccas suggests that while these findings offer little to people at an individual level, they give vaccine manufacturers valuable data when developing next-generation therapies. “If we want to make new vaccines, or better vaccines, do we have to think about the balance of these types of cells?” he says. “We know that … generally the goal of the vaccines is to make a lot of antibodies and I don’t think anyone thinks that too many neutralising antibodies is a problem. But I think you can envisage that too many highly active T cells could be a problem. “Our paper is saying is that you probably should look quite closely at the different types of cells that are made if you’re making a new vaccine, and then decide: am I generating an immune response that’s that is balanced enough to not cause any problems?”

Aug 28

Remembering Reco Gunnels Sr.

In a heartwarming tribute to the memory of Reco Gunnels Sr., his family, business partners, and affiliates are uniting once again on September 8, 2023, to bring hope and make a lasting impact on the lives of their communities. The occasion marks the fifth annual “Give for Peace” blood drive, aimed at not only providing resources and education but also fostering a sense of togetherness that reflects Reco’s spirit. Reco Gunnels Sr., affectionately known as a gentle giant with an unwavering commitment to serving others, left a mark on all who knew him. This tribute, initiated by his family, not only honors his legacy but seeks to bring about positive change in the lives of those who attend. The event is an embodiment of Reco’s philosophy, “Go Big or Go Home!” The sentiment resonates through the remarkable efforts put into the Hoxworth blood drive. It’s not just a memorial; it’s a vibrant celebration of Reco’s values and the impact he made during his time on Earth. Reco’s spirit of service, inherited from their late mother Maxine Gunnels, continues to inspire the family and everyone involved. Reco had a profound sense of community and camaraderie. He was known for organizing community cookouts to promote unity and support for those impacted by gun violence. Tragically, Reco himself fell victim to gun violence on August 24th, 2017. His family, community, and business partners are determined to turn the pain of loss into a driving force for change and justice. “We hold onto hope to receive justice for our family and all that loved him,” says Kelly Gunnels Valines, sister of Reco. “The blood drive serves as a symbol of that hope, as well as a way to give back to the community that Reco cared so deeply about.” For the past five years, this blood drive has been a way for Reco’s loved ones to remember him and honor his legacy. It’s a unique blend of commemoration, education, and altruism – a true embodiment of Reco. By fostering a culture of blood donation, the event saves lives in the greater Cincinnati community and ensures that Reco’s memory lives on. Reco Gunnels Sr.’s legacy is one of love, service and unity. And on September 8, 2023, that legacy will shine brighter than ever, reminding us all that a life well-lived continues to touch hearts and change lives long after it has passed.

Aug 28

FDA Issues Warning on Contaminated Eyedrop Products Amid Bacteria

By the edhat staff The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning regarding the use of two eyedrop products due to bacterial and fungal contamination. The affected products are Dr. Berne’s MSM Drops 5% Solution and LightEyez MSM Eye Drops Eye Repair. The contamination involves drug-resistant bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Mycobacterium, Mycolicibacterium, and Methylorubrum in LightEyez, and Exophiala fungi in Dr. Berne’s product. Both products claim methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) as their active ingredient, which is not authorized for use in any legally marketed eye drugs in the U.S. So far, no adverse effects have been reported by consumers who have used these products, according to the FDA. This warning comes as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed an outbreak of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections linked to several brands of artificial tears and eyedrop products. The CDC identified the bacteria strain in 81 individuals, with four deaths reported between May 2022 and April 2023. Notably, the most common product associated with the infections was Ezri Care Artificial Tears, which the FDA warned against purchasing in February. The CDC confirmed the presence of the matching Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain in open bottles of Ezri Care Artificial Tears, leading to further investigation to determine if contamination occurred during the manufacturing process. The FDA attributed the lack of appropriate microbial testing and the use of inadequate, tamper-evident packaging to the manufacturer, Global Pharma Healthcare, an India-based pharmaceutical provider. Global Pharma also voluntarily recalled another product, Delsam Pharma Artificial Eye Ointment, for similar reasons. In February, two other companies, Apotex Corp. and Pharmedica USA, recalled their eyedrop products. At that time, those products had not been linked to infections. However, as of May, infections related to the outbreak were reported in 18 states across the U.S., including California, Texas, New York, and Florida. Symptoms of the bacterial infection include eye discharge, redness, blurred vision, light sensitivity, and eye pain. In severe cases, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, including the bloodstream, leading to potential vision loss or surgical removal of the eyeball. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, but the increasing resistance of the bacteria to multiple drugs poses a challenge. The CDC currently recommends testing for infection only in individuals exhibiting symptoms. In recent years, drug-resistant strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa have caused thousands of infections among hospitalized patients, prompting concerns about the need for effective measures to address this ongoing issue. As the FDA urges consumers to cease the use of the affected products and investigates the contamination, vigilance and caution when choosing eyedrop products are paramount.

Aug 28

Salina ‘Battle of the Badges’ Blood Drive underway

by: Wil Day Posted: Aug 28, 2023 / 02:39 PM CDT Updated: Aug 28, 2023 / 02:39 PM CDT SALINA, Kan. (KSNW) — The annual “Battle of the Badges” is underway in Salina. Each year the Salina Police Department and Salina Fire and EMS compete to see who can get the most people to donate blood and vote for them in the event sponsored by the American Red Cross. Barton County sheriff: Man lying on road is hit by car The drive began Monday morning and runs through Wednesday. Those who participate with a blood donation and vote either for police or fire and EMS can receive a free t-shirt while supplies last. For more information, including times, location, and scheduling an appointment, click here.

Aug 28

GOP Presidential Candidate Ron DeSantis Has The Blood of Jacksonville’s Black Community On His Hands

At a vigil Sunday for the people killed by a mass shooter in Jacksonville, Fla., Gov. Ron DeSantis was loudly booed and heckled by attendees. A day prior, a white gunman targeted and shot three Black people to death at a Dollar General store before fatally turning the gun—an AR-15 he adorned with swastikas—on himself. Black Hack: Clean the Tub And Save Your Back! Off English “What he did is totally unacceptable in the state of Florida,” DeSantis said. “We are not going to let people be targeted based on their race.” Advertisement The governor—who we often find much to disagree with—wasn’t wrong there. Racially-motivated mass killings should be unacceptable in Florida or anywhere else. And as the state’s top elected official, the buck absolutely stops with him. But DeSantis left out one critical detail as he did his civic duty to condemn the violence: the fact that he has to own some responsibility for creating the climate in which it happened. No, he didn’t put the gun in the murderer’s hands, etch the swastikas or pull the trigger. He didn’t write the manifesto. But DeSantis, who is currently seeking the GOP nomination for president, has used his power to bolster racial division through policies that demean and diminish Black people, Hispanic immigrants and member of the LGBTQIA community. Advertisement Advertisement Whether it was the Stop WOKE Act” which severely limits how companies and school can discuss race, to gutting diversity programs at colleges, DeSantis has used the levers of power to specifically demonize Black people—and our history—in attempt to appease a bigoted political party and make white people feel better. In a move earlier this year that even shocked Republicans, the Florida Board of Education approved a new set of African-American Studies teaching standards that claimed Black people personally benefited from slavery. DeSantis’ Republican Party has for decades purported to care about law and order, but the Florida gov saw fit to suspend two elected prosecutors—including the only Black woman in that role in the state—when how they did their job wasn’t politically convenient for him. In addition to his crusade against critical race theory, DeSantis also made it easier for the Jacksonville shooter to purchase his weapon by loosening gun laws in Florida during his tenure. For the governor to feign empathy and call the perpetrator a “major league scumbag” Sunday night is a joke; DeSantis intentionally cultivated the grounds for this atrocious act of violence to occur. In May, the NAACP issued a formal travel advisory for the state of Florida explaining it wasn’t safe for Black people. Advertisement “Florida is openly hostile toward African Americans, people of color and LGBTQ+ individuals,” the travel notice stated. “Before traveling to Florida, please understand that the state of Florida devalues and marginalizes the contributions of, and the challenges faced by African Americans and other communities of color.” Shortly after the advisory was released, a spokesperson for DeSantis wrote it off as “nothing more than a stunt.” Now we know who was right. However, what happened on Saturday proved that politicians who normalize white supremacist rhetoric used by domestic terrorists play a crucial role in the rise of hate crimes. DeSantis and others like him who prop up white nationalism have blood on their hands—and Black folks won’t ever forget it.

Aug 28

COVID-19: New Variant With 30 Mutations May Cause Breakthrough Infections, CDC Warns

The BA.2.86 strain, now known as Pirola, has been identified in three states: Michigan, Virginia, and Ohio. The Michigan case, the first in the US, was an older woman who had recently returned from Japan. “BA.2.86 may be more capable of causing infection in people who have previously had COVID-19 or who have received COVID-19 vaccines,” the CDC said in a Risk Assessment Summary. “Scientists are evaluating the effectiveness of the forthcoming, updated COVID-19 vaccine. “CDC’s current assessment is that this updated vaccine will be effective at reducing severe disease and hospitalization. “At this point, there is no evidence that this variant is causing more severe illness. That assessment may change as additional scientific data are developed. CDC will share more as we know more.” At a World Health Organization (WHO) news briefing on Friday, Aug. 25, authorities said they consider BA.2.86 to be part of the Omicron variant family, but that could change if the strain spreads more widely even though Pirola’s 30 mutations are from the BA.2 lineage, which was the dominant Omicron strain in 2022. More data on the strain is expected later this week. The Pirola strain was first detected in Israel, and cases have also been identified in several other countries, including the US, United Kingdom, South Africa, and Denmark. Currently, a new Omicron subvariant known as Eris, whose official name is EG.5, is accounting for most COVID cases nationwide, just ahead of the XBB.1.16 strain, according to estimates by the CDC. Arcturus is also an offshoot of the highly-contagious Omicron strain. Check back to Daily Voice for updates. Click here to follow Daily Voice Nassau and receive free news updates.

Aug 28

Carter BloodCare to host blood drives in southern Denton County – Cross Timbers Gazette | Southern Denton County | Flower Mound

Carter BloodCare recently announced that it will host several blood drives in different parts of southern Denton County in September as part of Sickle Cell Awareness Month. “Sickle cell disease restricts the ability of hemoglobin in red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body,” the organization said in a news release. “This can lead to fatigue, strokes, intense pain, shortness of breath, headaches, dizziness and organ failure. Texas-based nonprofit Carter BloodCare notes blood transfusions are key treatments to relieve sickle cell symptoms.” Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder that affects about 100,000 Americans. “Eligible donors can easily support neighbors in need and others requiring transfusions,” Carter BloodCare said in a statement. “Give blood at this month’s Carter BloodCare blood drive.” The Carter BloodCare Bus will conduct a blood drive on Sept. 7, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital, 4400 Long Prairie Road in Flower Mound. Click here to sign up. Then on Sept. 17, the Carter BloodCare Bus will be at St. Mark’s Catholic Church, 6500 Crawford Road in Argyle, from 7:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Click here to sign up. And on Sept. 23, the Carter BloodCare Bus will conduct another blood drive at Double Oak Veterinary Medical Center, 8351 Justin Road, from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Click here to sign up.