FOX Sports? Ken Rosenthal reported on Tuesday afternoon that Phillies infielder Michael Young would only approve a trade back to his old team, the Rangers. But that might not be entirely factual.
Jayson Stark of ESPN is hearing from sources that Young will ?consider other destinations? if the Phillies ask and that Boston would be his second choice.
It?s not clear at this point what his stance is on the Yankees, who are believed to have some interest.
Young, 36, is batting .277/.342/.402 with seven homers and 32 RBI in 99 games this season. He was dealt from the Rangers to the Phillies in December for righties Josh Lindblom and Lisalverto Bonilla.
[unable to retrieve full-text content]A Toronto man is only the second known person to have acquired synesthesia as a result of a brain injury, in this case a stroke. About nine months after suffering a stroke, the patient noticed that words written in a certain shade of blue evoked a strong feeling of disgust. Yellow was only slightly better. Raspberries, which he never used to eat very often, now tasted like blue -- and blue tasted like raspberries.
Study shows combination stroke therapy safe and effectivePublic release date: 30-Jul-2013 [ | E-mail | Share ]
Contact: Kathryn Cosse kathryn.cosse@uc.edu 513-558-0207 University of Cincinnati Academic Health Center
University of Cincinnati-led trial successfully tests antiplatelet drug eptifibatide combined with tPA
CINCINNATI -- The combination of the clot-busting drug tPA with an infusion of the antiplatelet drug eptifibatide dissolves blood clots safely and more quickly than tPA alone, a study led by University of Cincinnati (UC) researchers has found.
Results from the study, known as the CLEAR-ER Stroke Trial, are published online in the journal Stroke: Journal of the American Heart Association. UC was the coordinating center for the trial, which included nine medical centers comprising 21 hospitals.
Standard treatment for acute ischemic stroke (characterized by an obstruction to the blood flow, typically a clot), is intravenous (IV) delivery of U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) within three hours of stroke onset.
The CLEAR-ER (Combined Approach to Lysis Utilizing Eptifibatide and rt-PA in Acute Ischemic Stroke Enhanced Regimen) trial was a phase-2 clinical trial designed to determine the safety of an enhanced dosing regimen using eptifibatide and establish evidence for a phase-3 clinical trial, which would use a larger pool of subjects. As an antiplatelet medication, eptifibatidedelivered intravenouslyworks together with the tPA to break up the existing clot and prevents formation of additional clots by decreasing the clumping of blood platelets.
"Through our team's research efforts, we were able to determine that eptifibatide may be safely combined with medium-dose IV tPA administered within three hours of symptom onset and that a phase-3 clinical trial is warranted," says Opeolu Adeoye, MD, UC assistant professor of emergency medicine and neurosurgery and a neurointensivist at UC Medical Center.
Adeoye was co-principal investigator along with Arthur Pancioli, MD, professor and Richard C. Levy Chair for Emergency Medicine at UC. Both Adeoye and Pancioli are members of the UC Neuroscience Institute, one of four institutes affiliated with the UC College of Medicine and UC Health
Says Pancioli: "We know that the combination of these two medications dissolves clots faster and more completely than tPA alone. Our goal is to determine if we can use this combination to improve the outcomes for acute stroke victims."
CLEAR-ER investigators enrolled 126 subjects from July 2009 to October 2012. Of those, 101 received tPA plus eptifibatide and 25 received tPA alone. As the trial was a double-blind, randomized study, neither patient nor doctor was aware if the substance administered in addition to tPA was a medication or a placebo.
Investigators examined safety at specified endpoints, watching for incidence of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), and 90-day outcomes using a standardized measurement tool. Of the subjects who were given tPA plus eptifibatide, 50 (49.5 percent) had what were classified as good outcomes. Those who received tPA alone had nine good outcomes (36 percent).
Safety between the two groups was shown to be comparable at 36-hour, seven-day and 90-day endpoints.
The potential next step in investigation of the enhanced regimen, a phase-3 clinical trial, would typically use a larger pool of subjects determined by data from the phase-2 trial. Phase-3 trials, the last step before marketing of a medication, typically confirm its effectiveness, monitor side effects, compare it to commonly used treatments and collect information that will allow it to be used safely.
###
Adeoye also presented the study results at the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference, held Feb. 5-8 in Honolulu.
The CLEAR-ER Stroke Trial was sponsored by the National Institutes of Health's National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) as a Specialized Programs of Translational Research in Acute Stroke (SPOTRIAS) project.
Drugs for the CLEAR-ER trial were supplied by Genentech (tPA) and Merck (eptifibatide, marketed as Integrilin). Adeoye serves as a consultant to Genentech and is a member of its speakers' bureau. Pancioli reports no conflicts.
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AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert! system.
Study shows combination stroke therapy safe and effectivePublic release date: 30-Jul-2013 [ | E-mail | Share ]
Contact: Kathryn Cosse kathryn.cosse@uc.edu 513-558-0207 University of Cincinnati Academic Health Center
University of Cincinnati-led trial successfully tests antiplatelet drug eptifibatide combined with tPA
CINCINNATI -- The combination of the clot-busting drug tPA with an infusion of the antiplatelet drug eptifibatide dissolves blood clots safely and more quickly than tPA alone, a study led by University of Cincinnati (UC) researchers has found.
Results from the study, known as the CLEAR-ER Stroke Trial, are published online in the journal Stroke: Journal of the American Heart Association. UC was the coordinating center for the trial, which included nine medical centers comprising 21 hospitals.
Standard treatment for acute ischemic stroke (characterized by an obstruction to the blood flow, typically a clot), is intravenous (IV) delivery of U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) within three hours of stroke onset.
The CLEAR-ER (Combined Approach to Lysis Utilizing Eptifibatide and rt-PA in Acute Ischemic Stroke Enhanced Regimen) trial was a phase-2 clinical trial designed to determine the safety of an enhanced dosing regimen using eptifibatide and establish evidence for a phase-3 clinical trial, which would use a larger pool of subjects. As an antiplatelet medication, eptifibatidedelivered intravenouslyworks together with the tPA to break up the existing clot and prevents formation of additional clots by decreasing the clumping of blood platelets.
"Through our team's research efforts, we were able to determine that eptifibatide may be safely combined with medium-dose IV tPA administered within three hours of symptom onset and that a phase-3 clinical trial is warranted," says Opeolu Adeoye, MD, UC assistant professor of emergency medicine and neurosurgery and a neurointensivist at UC Medical Center.
Adeoye was co-principal investigator along with Arthur Pancioli, MD, professor and Richard C. Levy Chair for Emergency Medicine at UC. Both Adeoye and Pancioli are members of the UC Neuroscience Institute, one of four institutes affiliated with the UC College of Medicine and UC Health
Says Pancioli: "We know that the combination of these two medications dissolves clots faster and more completely than tPA alone. Our goal is to determine if we can use this combination to improve the outcomes for acute stroke victims."
CLEAR-ER investigators enrolled 126 subjects from July 2009 to October 2012. Of those, 101 received tPA plus eptifibatide and 25 received tPA alone. As the trial was a double-blind, randomized study, neither patient nor doctor was aware if the substance administered in addition to tPA was a medication or a placebo.
Investigators examined safety at specified endpoints, watching for incidence of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), and 90-day outcomes using a standardized measurement tool. Of the subjects who were given tPA plus eptifibatide, 50 (49.5 percent) had what were classified as good outcomes. Those who received tPA alone had nine good outcomes (36 percent).
Safety between the two groups was shown to be comparable at 36-hour, seven-day and 90-day endpoints.
The potential next step in investigation of the enhanced regimen, a phase-3 clinical trial, would typically use a larger pool of subjects determined by data from the phase-2 trial. Phase-3 trials, the last step before marketing of a medication, typically confirm its effectiveness, monitor side effects, compare it to commonly used treatments and collect information that will allow it to be used safely.
###
Adeoye also presented the study results at the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference, held Feb. 5-8 in Honolulu.
The CLEAR-ER Stroke Trial was sponsored by the National Institutes of Health's National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) as a Specialized Programs of Translational Research in Acute Stroke (SPOTRIAS) project.
Drugs for the CLEAR-ER trial were supplied by Genentech (tPA) and Merck (eptifibatide, marketed as Integrilin). Adeoye serves as a consultant to Genentech and is a member of its speakers' bureau. Pancioli reports no conflicts.
[ | E-mail | Share ]
?
AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert! system.
NuForce Introduces Audiophile-Grade Digital Audio Converter and Headphone Amplifier for Android Devices, Mac and PC
Icon DAC extracts audio data in its original digital form from Android mobile devices, Mac and/or PC to deliver bit-perfect, low-jitter, audiophile-quality music file playback
Fremont, Calif. ? July 29, 2013 ?NuForce, Inc., a leader in professional and consumer audio gear, announces the release of its Icon DAC digital audio converter (DAC) and headphone amplifier. NuForce Icon DAC delivers the latest in mobile device connectivity by supporting USB audio for Android (4.1* and beyond with OTG), Mac and PC (with advanced PCM and DSD). It also features a very high-powered headphone amplifier, linear volume control and genuine audiophile construction.
"With the advent of Smartphones and their enormous storage capabilities, a great many audio enthusiasts have been longing for a quality DAC/headphone amp they can simply plug directly into in order to experience their favorite music delivered with vivid clarity," said Jason Lim, NuForce CEO. "We've created a solution for Android users that we believe is comprehensive and fills the void."
Icon DAC is a diverse device that can be used in the home or office. The Icon DAC can be used as a DAC, a headphone amp or a preamp utilizing the secondary analog input for stereo signals from most home-audio and mobile sources. The DAC is packed with the latest technology and accepts PCM sample rates up to 96kHz. This 32-bit DAC supports 24-bit asynchronous operation while also providing Direct-Stream Digital (DSD) decoding capability.
The discriminating headphone listener is also bound to be satisfied as the Icon DAC includes a proprietary headphone amp stage that drives the most demanding 600-Ohm headphones with ease. Comprising of a linear up-conversion topology, the Icon DAC delivers an incredible 24V rail-to-rail supply voltage to the amplifier circuits resulting in ultra-fast transient reproduction and uncompromised peak dynamic performance.
As a control center/preamplifier for use with external amplifier and speaker arrangements, audiophile-grade circuit design and parts ensure that the Icon DAC always delivers the ultimate in clarity to its stereo RCA outputs. A coaxial S/PDIF output is included for added system flexibility.
The innovative design goes several steps further to include a linear power supply that provides only pure DC power to all circuits, a TOCOS high-resolution linear volume control for accurate rendering of critical low-level information, and quality construction throughout.
Specs & Features:
? High-precision 32-bit DAC
? Supports Windows 7, 8, Mac OSX, Android 4.1.1*
? USB Input from Android devices**
? Supports PCM and DSD over USB playback (DSD support on PC only)
? Powerful 8V output headphone amplifier
? 6.3 mm headphone output jack
? 3.5 mm analog input and RCA analog output
? Audiophile TOCOS volume pot
? Multiple stage filtering and regulated up-converted 24V rail power supply
? High-quality aluminum chassis
The Icon DAC is available now for $325 from several online stores and Nuforce dealers. For more information on this or any other NuForce products, contact PR representative Jessica Darrican at 305-374-4404, extension 116.
*Android compatibility is limited to smart phones running Android 4.1.1 that enables support for USB OTG Audio features.
**HTC ONE X and newer version, Samsung S3 and newer version, SONY Xperia Z and newer version, and other mobile devices.
Nokia Lumia 520 first Windows Phone 8 device on GoPhone, priced at $100
AT&T will be adding the 4G-capable Nokia Lumia 520 to the GoPhone roster, making it the first Windows Phone 8 device to do so. The Nokia smartphone has a 4-inch IPS WVGA display, a five-megapixel camera, runs on a Snapdragon S4 processor with 512MB of RAM and 8GB of storage, and can connect to AT&T's 4G network. GoPhone will be selling the device for $100, without a contract, from July 26th.
Sony Freeview recorders suffer from firmware update fault
A number of Sony set-top boxes that can record Freeview-based television programs to DVD have stopped receiving broadcasts, following a faulty over-the-air firmware update sent to devices in the United Kingdom. After recieving a number of complaints, spokesperson for Sony UK told the BBC "We are aware of the issue and our engineers are doing everything to solve it."
Don Chow (of Ottawa's foodieprints: a delicious blog that reveals stories about food, drink, cooking and eating in Canada's Capital) joined in on our Seed to Sausage cooking demonstration with Mike McKenzie in June. Below, Don shares with our readers his take on what makes for a good cooking class and captures a very tasty night in both visual and print. Thanks Don for sharing the evening with us!
There has been much written about upstart salumi producer, A Seed to Sausage, which is based out of Sharbot Lake in Southern Ontario.?? Its founder Mike McKenzie is recognized in restauranteur and chef entrepreneur circles from Montreal to Toronto.? Such may have something to do with McKenzie's seeming cross-province speaking tour.? Such may have something to do with Seed to Sausage's philosophy, "local, ethical, and humble."
McKenzie believes in being able to trace his products to "the seed" that grew the grass or grain on which livestock feed, hence "seed" to "sausage."
As much as possible, ingredients are locally-sourced from family farms.? Meat tends to be purchased whole and antibiotic-free. Everything is made by hand in small batches.
Recently, Seed to Sausage was chosen by Ace Bakery to participate in its Artisan Incubator program, which is part of a twentieth anniversary celebration.? Judges felt McKenzie's love for his craft and unwavering commitment to quality can be tasted in his cured and smoked meats, especially his chorizo and saucisson sec.?
McKenzie also believes in sharing the expertise he amassed, moving from hobby salumi-making to supplier for restaurants, fine food shops, and small-chain grocery stores.? You will find him and his team teaching a series of workshops at their facility in Sharbot Lake.? Everything from water and pressure canning to sausage-making is planned. In June, McKenzie will host sausage-making workshops out of the Cirillo?s Culinary Academy in Toronto (4894 Dundas Street W.) with Chefs Lynn Crawford and Lora Kirk.? Crawford and Kirk own and operate the highly acclaimed Ruby Watchco, located in between trendy Riverdale and Leslieville neighbourhoods.? Being one of the 20 chosen Ace Bakery artisans, he also has Food Network segments to film.???
On Monday evening, he taught an exclusive 12-person sausage-making course at The Urban Element in Ottawa (424 Parkdale Avenue).?
Owner Carley Schelck offers demonstration-based and hands-on cooking classes at her stylish learning kitchen, located in a renovated former fire station on Parkdale Avenue.?
It was a good class.
So, what makes a good cooking class?? the Urban Element's open concept kitchen is outfitted with several convection ovens, professional-grade ranges, ample refrigeration, and lengths of marble and granite counter-top that doubles as work surfaces for chocolate and pastry.
Level of Complexity Schleck arranged for McKenzie to teach two courses; an in-depth one with advanced topics for members of the restaurant industry who already practice the craft of salting, smoking, and curing meat, which Michael Ruhlman rightly calls charcuterie; and a more introductory one for general enthusiasts who just want to learn sausage-making.
Staff Schleck has cooks and servers available to support instructors.? Both demonstration and hands-on classes include multi-course plates, paired with craft beer and wine.? Cooks actively help with prep, plating, and cleanup.? Servers serve and clear plates.? Sometimes, for larger classes, Schelck's resident chef, Anna March, formerly of Mariposa Farms is on-hand.
Duration and Pacing Schleck works with instructors, usually restaurant chefs, to establish lesson plans.? This way topics are scheduled so they can be delivered at a pleasant pace.
Participation After having everyone attending his evening "general enthusiast" class introduce themselves, McKenzie asked us what we wanted to learn.? Then, he tailored his class to match.? Moreover, besides sharing much insight, McKenzie encouraged questions.? Attendees ground meat and stuffed sausage casings, working with a grinder and stuffer.? We made a batch of fresh sausage.
??? Cost Urban Element courses tend to include a meal.? For hands-on courses, materials (ingredients) and equipment are provided.? When you consider the value-proposition, think "edu-tainment."
To summarize, good cooking classes convey expertise, share insight, and tell a compelling story.?
Attendees were already familiar with Seed to Sausage, several big fans.? Some were gifted the course on occasion of Father's Day.
Seed to Sasuage's Jalapeno Cheese Curd Smokies on Carrot Slaw
???????????
Seed to Sausage Charcuterie Tasting Plate; Hunters Salami, Northern Italian, Speck, Calabrese, Chorizo, and House Cured Ham
Some insight McKenzie shared:???
In order to ensure good "particle separation" (essentially well distributed meat, fat, and seasoning), ingredients need to be kept cold, so freeze as much of your equipment as you can; cut your meat into strips so the auger of the grinder can carry the meat through, eliminating the need to plunge the meat, which creates friction; chill your hands in ice water before handling the meat or mince; if you don't have separate equipment for grinding and stuffing sausage, you may need to let your grinder cool after it processes your meat.
???
Minimize air pockets in your sausage.? Air pockets can lead to bacterial growth.
???
If you plan on making sausage-making a hobby, invest in disposable gloves meant for food handling.? They make cleanup easier.
???
When cleaning your meat grinder, feed bits of stale bread through.
???
Let freshly made sausage age overnight.? The ensures the meat binds with the casing, minimizing the risk of it escaping out of the ends of the sausage when cooked.
????????????????????????????????????????? Cutting the Pork Butt into Strips ????????????????????????????????????????? Grinding the Pork Butt ????????????????????????????????????????? Putting the Sausage Mince Together
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Cooler weather helped firefighters make significant gains on Saturday against a massive wildfire in Southern California, as crews cut containment lines around nearly 50 percent of the blaze.
The so-called Mountain Fire has burned across more than 27,000 acres of dry brush and timber and destroyed seven residences since it broke out on Monday. At least 5,600 residents remain under evacuation orders.
The more than 3,000 firefighters tackling the blaze on Saturday managed to expand containment lines to encircle 49 percent of the fire, up from 25 percent earlier in the day, said Carol Jandrall, fire information officer for the multiagency team battling the conflagration.
"It's been probably the best day so far," she said of the progress made on Saturday.
Higher humidity and clouds, which reduced sunlight on the burn area and tempered the intensity of the flames, helped firefighters cut more containment lines along the east and south flanks of the fire where it originated, Jandrall said.
Firefighters had hoped for rain, but little precipitation actually fell, she said. At the same time, the erratic winds that can propel a fire and had been feared as the weather changed also did not materialize, Jandrall said.
The flames have forced the evacuation of the town of Idyllwild, a community about a mile above sea level known for its hiking trails, rock climbing, and arts and music scene, and also forced out residents from the nearby community of Fern Valley.
Residents of Idyllwild and Fern Valley have been out of their homes since evacuations were ordered on Wednesday.
A few hundred people have been allowed to return home in neighboring areas where the threat of flames has decreased, said Norma Bailey, a spokeswoman for the team combating the blaze.
The Mountain Fire is 90 miles east of Los Angeles.
Conditions could improve on Sunday, Jandrall said.
"They are expecting a chance for more precipitation which would be great," she said.
(Reporting by Alex Dobuzinskis; Editing by Dan Whitcomb, David Brunnstrom and Eric Beech)
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Public release date: 30-Jul-2013
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