Saturday, November 18, 2023

DR. ROBERT BARD PRESENTS @ VIENNA INFLAMMATORY SKIN DISEASE CONFERENCE

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November 15‐18, 2023‐ Dr. Robert Bard's graphic presentation was showcased in the 5th ISDS  Inflammatory  Skin  Disease Summit 2023 in Vienna, AU.  Dr. Bard's current review on the "ABSCOPAL  EFFECTS  OF  IMAGE  GUIDED  PULSED  BIOENERGY TREATMENT"  presents  his  findings  about  the  adjuvant treatment  effects  of  the  latest  in  non‐invasive  therapeutic solutions  such  as  pulsed  electromagnetic  therapy  irradiation (PEMF) and its potential in cell regenerative effects.  Dr. Bard’s poster  was  accepted  on  October  15  as  one  of  the  top  279 scientific contributors worldwide offering the most compelling discoveries and current reports. 


FROM THE ISDS EVENT: (source: isds2023.org/program/)
The “5th Inflammatory Skin Disease Summit: The Translational Revolution” (is) a unique and dynamic symposium, being held in Vienna, Austria, at the “Aula der Wissenschaften” on November 15-18, 2023.  After four very successful meetings in Vienna and in New York City in 2014, 2016, 2018 and 2021, we have again taken upon the task of organizing such an important in-person meeting, in order to continue this path of therapeutic revolution and extend to other inflammatory skin diseases. We want to discuss new concepts and new developments in the field of inflammatory skin diseases and to devise and explore new therapeutic strategies. For the last meetings, we had been able to attract true leaders in their fields, with more than 600 participants from all over the world at the last meetings in New York (2021) and Vienna (2018). We have now established this conference on an every two-year basis."

According to a project manager from Mondial Congress & Events, "we are the biggest Professional Congress Organizer in Austria (PCO)... We have been working for ISDS and supported the organizing committee with the organization/logistics since the first edition in 2014. The community of ISDS is growing each year and. This year we are excited to welcome the community to our hometown." She added that this ISDS event had "more than 600 people registered, 33 Oral abstract presentations and 44 faculty speakers and a poster exhibition of over 279 abstracts have been accepted this year"

A LEGACY OF RESEARCH & EDUCATION
Since  the  inception  of  his  profound  career  in  cancer  research  and  advanced diagnostic  imaging  (1974),  Dr.  Bard  has  been  a  staunch  supporter  of  non‐invasive imaging technologies that has proven to offer significant quantitative biometrics for a wide range of clinical uses. He has authored an expansive list of medical texts and articles in medical journals about cancer imaging and reports about technological innovations. Moreover, he remains active  throughout his unending career by having presented in over 200 medical summits, symposiums and conferences both domestic and in Europe. From pre and post‐op scanning, clinical  research  validation  and  2nd  opinion  scans,  Dr.  Bard's  mission  as  a medical educator is to mobilize more effective strategies in pathology reporting and  data  gathering  through  the  use  of  ultrasound  functions.   He  is  globally recognized  in  conferences  and  throughout  the  medical  media  for  his informative  presentations  and  published  textbooks  on  diagnostic  imaging science‐ including his highly referenced IMAGE GUIDED PROCEDURES series. 

REAL‐TIME IMAGE GUIDED TREATMENTS: “SCAN AND TREAT”
Dr. Bard employs  the use of 3D Doppler Sonogram and elastography imaging  to collect biometric data and  to record  the  efficacy  of  therapeutic  solutions.    This  includes  an  array  of  information  including  the  quantifiable measurement  of  blood  flow,  muscle  contractions  and  the  temporal measurement  of  the  treatment’s  effects  on  inflammation.  For  this  specific presentation,  the  technology  called  PEMF  (Pulsed  Electromagnetic  Field) technologist  Patrick  Ziemer,  founder  of  Aurawell  PEMF  to  support  this dermatological study by donating various product models to Dr. Bard’s research center.  “We recognize the value of Dr. Bard’s findings for the continuance and advancement of PEMF research… and certainly proving (clinically) that PEMF can affect the outcome and care of inflammatory skin disorders through imaging is a medical milestone for the non‐invasive and alternative health movements.”  



PATRICK ZIEMER: CRUSADER IN NON‐INVASIVE THERAPY MOVEMENT 
AURA  Wellness  PEMF  is  a  major  sponsor  of  Dr.  Bard’s  latest presentation  and  a  contributor  to  PEMF  innovations  for  his research.  Mr Ziemer himself is part of the ISDS Vienna Conference exhibitor lineup on November 15‐18.  With an extensive history in the development of PEMF science, Pat Ziemer started in 2002, co‐developing  and  promoting  the  therapeutic  use  of  PEMF  in  the equine society and expanded to high‐power applications in 2007.  

His  PEMF  devices  have  shown  to  improve  horses’  circulation, increasing  blood  oxygen,  lymphatic  stimulation,  relaxing muscle spasms,  enhancing  muscle  tone,  and  increasing  the  range  of motion in high performance horses.  In 2020, Mr. Ziemer’s PEMF officially made its way to human patients at the launch of AURA Wellness (brand)‐ carrying a professional grade, high voltage PEMF model  while  helping  advance  tremendous  research  and development toward the application of for‐human prototypes.  

RESEARCH & VALIDATION
It is noted that Dr. Bard continues to conduct pilot studies and publishing efficacy studies with PEMF devices (and other non‐invasive modalities)‐ including the latest models donated by AURA WELLNESS.  Dr. Bard’s research and publishing  programs  include  exploratory  testing  for  Pulsed  Bioenergy  solutions  for  enlarged  prostate (hyperplasia), dense breast tissue, endometrial symptoms, inflammatory skin disorders, urinary incontinence and an array of other health issues.  His work is under AngioResearch (501c3) and the recently launched Integrative Health Research Center in NYC.

Monday, July 17, 2023

ANGIOFOUNDATION & NATIONAL FIREFIGHTERS HEALTH ADVOCACY ORG SPONSORS RESPONDER-TECH PROGRAM



In an ongoing battle for advocacy and supportive resources for national rescue members, Dr. Robert Bard, (associate producer and co-publisher of health educational programs for first responder safety and the "Get Checked NOW!" program)  recently launched "ResponderTech Reviews".  Thanks in part to F.A.C.E.S. dir. of operations Lennard Gettz and CEO, Capt. Chris Conner (of the Bedford (TX) Fire Dept), the launch of this educational programming is inspired by its sister program -HealthTechReporter.com, reporting on non-invasive innovations that support functional medicine and "deserves recognition for their mark in alternative therapeutics".   Under collaboration with Responder Resilience producer David Dachinger, spotlighting technologies that "affect the lives of our rescuers is relevant news and is priceless information for our audiences".   ResponderTech Reviews profiles the evolution of of our community and earmarks the latest developments that shape the way we bring care to the caregivers from the field.

More than a product showcase, IPHA's diagnostic specialist Dr. Bard will report on medically validated testing of healing devices through the use of his diagnostic imaging.  Dr. Bard employs the same Before and After scans used in clinical trials and case studies that offer quantitative understanding of a device's efficacy during the treatment process. This comparative interpretation aims to show the body's reaction to therapeutic solutions.

EPISODE 1: Some of the upcoming episodes of ResponderTech episodes will highlight functional health game-changers in DECON and detoxification techniques, EMS portable diagnostic scanning, advancements in PEMF devices, Infrared therapeutics, burn solutions and so much more.  Check out our latest clip, featuring Captain Carrie Preusse of the Minneapolis FD and her use of PEMF technology. As a high ranking member of her firehouse, "Capt. Carrie" shares the many potential injuries that happen 'on the job' and her discovery of Pulsed Electromagnetic Therapy offers major pain relief to keep her going at peak performance.

STAY TUNED!



NEWS: MEDICAL ASSOCIATION BOOSTS NATIONAL PRESENCE FOR FIRST RESPONDER PODCAST

12/11/2022- The AngioFoundation (501c3) announced its official sponsorship of the RESPONDER RESILIENCE PODCAST.  This recent funding boost (alongside a lineup of new corporate and foundation sponsors) aimed at advancing the programming of the responder-media initiative's national footprint.

Since its inception in the fall of 2021, the podcast's popularity in the fire, law enforcement and other responder groups maintained a steady growth, continuing to bring in some of the most respected and recognized guests from the rescue service.  This steady rise in subscribers led the show to reach over 60 memorable episodes and a respectable set of subscribers in the public sector. In its 3rd season, Responder Resilience earned national recognition thanks in part to another AngioFoundation partner-- F.A.C.E.S. (Firefighters Against Cancer & Exposures). 

The alliance originally began in 2018 when the org's executive founder Dr. Robert L. Bard joined a medical collaboration with the 9/11 CancerScan -an early detection advocacy program for ground zero rescue responders.  Retired firefighter and cancer survivor Dave Dachinger was elected as a technical advisor of the project, spotlighting the health initiative called "Get Checked Now!".

On October 17, 2021, leading board members of the AngioFoundation spoke as guests on one of the early episodes of the Responder Resilience video podcast (Season 1, Episode 6) where Dr. Bard and executive director Dr. Lennard Gettz presented clinical reviews about the identified toxins and carcinogenic particulates from the many types of fire calls - otherwise called "BEING SALTY". They discussed clinical findings about today's "plastic fires", 9/11 illnesses, and they also covered a review on modern non-invasive diagnostics including image-guided biopsies and targeted therapies. This episode raised significant viewership in the fire service and earned new audiences within the cancer communities- thanks to the podcast's online re-distribution channels and social media boosting. 

In Nov. 2021, F.A.C.E.S. and Responder Resilience teamed up on a special project broadcasting their November meeting of the NY Fire Bell Club at the NYC Fire Museum (See Video) which catapulted a major event in 5/2022 at the FDNY Fire Academy in Randall’s Island (NY). An official ceremony was held for the 699 first responders of the 1975 NY Telephone Exchange Fire (Feb. 27, 1975) with the Memorial Wall and Plaque Dedication Ceremony. Dr. Bard took the podium as an honoring speaker and presented the highest foundation award to advocate and survivor Ret. FF. Dan J. Noonan.


PSA: Public Service Announcement- F.A.C.E.S. Foundation


As a public educational service, Mr. Dachinger attracted fundamental supporters and program partners including podcast co-hosts clinical psychologist Dr. Stacy Raymond and licensed social worker Bonnie Rumilly. AngioFoundation program executive and F.A.C.E.S. director Dr. Gettz also joined the efforts to support the podcast's branding, distribution and outreach development.  "Now more than ever, streamlining our public media with sound educational content and dedicated awareness is paramount.  Using the benefits of the web to bring front-row access to the insight of our local heroes is empowerment for us all… on so many levels.  Lessons learned from  active members of the rescue service carries great value when it comes to uniting our community," states Dr. Bard.

THE ANGIOFOUNDATION was established in 2001 as public trust in support of medical research and educational programs relating to noninvasive cancer diagnostic solutions. Over the years, the foundation championed public advocacy efforts through new alliances with public health initiatives like the FIRST RESPONDERS CANCER RESOURCE, BRAIN INJURY DETECTION, THE PAIN HEALERS COALITION and the WOMEN'S DIAGNOSTIC NETWORK. The AngioFoundation's sponsorship is a national endorsement of the podcast within the medical community. The attention gained from this is expected to bring in new support from other supporters of rescuers' health and safety groups as well as other foundations who encourage prevention and early detection.

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Thursday, June 29, 2023

2023 IPHA SPOTLIGHT: NATHAN INTRATOR & NEUROSTEER

MEETING INNOVATORS OF BRAIN HEALTH (part 1)

By: Marilyn Abrahamson

Since December 2022, I've been privileged to be part of a distinguished group of professionals known as the Brain Health Collaborative. As the associate director, I've had the honor of meeting and learning from many of the remarkable individuals within our ranks.

On June 14, 2023, I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Nathan Intrator, the visionary CEO of Neurosteer Inc., a groundbreaking company he established in 2015. Dr. Intrator's expertise lies in mathematics, particularly in signal processing, and his fascination with the human brain led him to write his doctoral dissertation on the subject of neuroplasticity.

Neurosteer’s FDA cleared platform represents a remarkable advancement in the form of a user-friendly, portable brain activity monitor that utilizes EEG technology to measure various aspects of brain function, including engagement, attention, emotional state and cognitive load. As a professional devoted to brain health, I am perpetually seeking answers to the most pressing questions about brain training and how to optimize its benefits. That is why Dr. Intrator's work captivated me, and I eagerly seized the opportunity to meet and interview him.

During our conversation, Dr. Intrator illuminated the multitude of future applications for Neurosteer (subject to additional FDA clearances) in both the diagnosis and treatment of neurodegenerative conditions such as epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer's. Remarkably, this is achieved using a small patch on the forehead with just a single EEG channel. Recent pilot studies have shown that Neurosteer can provide enable preclinical diagnoses of Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's, and other neurodegenerative conditions before symptoms manifest.

Dr. Intrator also revealed that Neurosteer has shown promising results in the detection of dopamine depletion in Parkinson's disease at an early stage, facilitating early intervention. Studies are underway to explore its role in detecting  epilepsy, Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia, essential tremor, and more. In hospital intensive care units, Neurosteer is being evaluated for assessing comatose patients, gauging their level of consciousness, depth of sedation, seizure activity, and other vital factors.

Regarding Alzheimer's disease, Dr. Intrator emphasized that Neurosteer has shown connectivity changes in the pre-symptomatic presence of amyloid accumulation. Early detection is crucial as it enables intervention that can delay or prevent cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. In the absence of pharmaceutical solutions for memory disorders like Alzheimer's, identifying the condition early empowers patients to take control of their lifestyle choices, and adopt habits that promote a healthy brain. Armed with this information, lives can be transformed if patients possess the motivation and discipline to embrace these choices.




Tune Your Brain with Wearables, Not Drugs | Nathan Intrator | TEDxWhiteCity: Can we monitor the brain just like we monitor other organs, using a portable and easy to use device? Nathan Intrator, a brain researcher and computer scientist, is currently developing one such monitor that can provide detailed information about cognitive and emotional brain activity. It can be used to improve health and wellness and for a variety of  lifestyle applications.

Nathan Intrator is the neuroscience startup leader of a revolutionary cloud-based platform that uses advanced brain signal processing and big data analytics to manage brain health and human wellness. An international scholar in neural computation, he delves into the undiscovered grey area of our brain.  His latest startup, Neurosteer, uses advanced brain signal processing and big data analytics to perform continuous, mobile monitoring and management of brain health. Neurosteer's mission is to become the standard method for ubiquitous brain activity interpretation and neuro-feedback. Real-time, detailed brain state analysis will be seamlessly integrated into a wide range of medical, neuro-marketing, lifestyle and gaming applications. In his belief communication technologies that didn’t exist 5 years ago can be leveraged to improve brain function in novel and fun ways, as well as improve the life style of individuals with brain disabilities. 

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx


Moreover, Neurosteer also offers support for those seeking to enhance their brain health and overall wellness, whether they currently experience cognitive decline, exhibit clinical biomarkers, or exist in a preclinical stage with early cognitive symptoms. The hope is that by identifying pathology before symptoms arise, more individuals will be motivated to take charge of their lives, prioritize brain health, and nurture their overall well-being.

Additionally, Neurosteer possesses therapeutic capabilities through neurofeedback, for example, by detecting elevated resting brain activity levels in seniors predisposed to cognitive decline before noticeable symptoms manifest. Through neurofeedback training, individuals can learn to lower their resting brain activity levels. This is studied in monks from the Dalai Lama's community, demonstrating the efficacy of this approach, wherein neurofeedback facilitates a meditative state that has reparative effects on the brain.

Dr. Intrator's groundbreaking vision of an affordable wearable device, to provide diagnostic assessment and therapeutic modalities for neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and other forms of dementia, is on the verge of becoming a remarkable reality. With Neurosteer leading the charge, we find ourselves at the threshold of a transformative era, where individuals will have the power to reclaim control over their cognitive well-being, offering them the gift of brain health.


AUTHOR:

MARILYN ABRAHAMSON, MA, CCC-SLP : As a Brain Health Education Specialist at Ceresti Health, Marilyn offers initiatives that supports education and empowerment of family caregivers. She also writes for and edits the Ceresti’s monthly newsletter and produces all brain health education and brain-health coaching programs for caregivers.  Marilyn's prior work is as a NJ Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist since 1987 and is an Amen Clinics Certified Brain Health Coach. 
She is also the cofounder of BrainThrive Consulting, and creator of the Long Live Your Brain program. www.longliveyourbrain.com







COGNITION TESTING & CONCUSSION METRICS THROUGH OPTICSCAN

INTRODUCTION
A new research study is underway at the Bard Diagnostic Imaging Center in NYC. Dr. Robert Bard and a local research team combines the latest biometric scanning advantages of transcranial DOPPLER imaging,  hemodynamic ULTRASOUND scanning (of the retinal, basilary and temporal arteries) and the integration of BIOFEEDBACK technology for a special research study. This neuro-scan review establishes (1) a cross-comparative study  between the technologies and (2) a multi-modality screening & monitoring protocol to record post-concussion and neurodegenerative disorders.

One of several major foci for this project is to explore the development of a diagnostic paradigm in the detection of post concussion symptoms including the growing reports of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy/CTE, identified from head concussions in military service and high impact sports.  Since 2018, Dr. Bard has been collaborating with neurologists and pain management specialists to assess the rampant growth of this progressive brain condition.  

STUDY 1: INTRACRANIAL PRESSURE
Case studies with a presumptive degenerative neuromuscular disease or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis are now being examined through a non-invasive investigation of the eye.   We can observe increased intracranial pressure, which may reflect in changes in the optic nerve diameter.  

[Fig. 1]  Scan of the eye (L) with a Doppler ultrasound probe shows the optic nerve diameter of five millimeters compared to the usually symmetric right almost eight millimeters. This suggests increased intracranial pressure or optic nerve tumor indicating a blood flow measure of the right anterior cerebral artery circulation that supplies the retina (approximately 60cm/s) blood flow.  [Fig. 2] The left vessel shows a decreased pressure of approximately 45cm/s as shown by the decreased height of the blood flow graph at the bottom. These quantitative diagnostic technologies are non-invasive allowing close clinical follow-up treatment in diseases affecting the eye related to brain trauma or degenerative neuromuscular disorders.


STUDY 2: POST-CONCUSSIVE / RETINAL ARTERIOVENOUS IMAGING
Concussion literature notes a funduscopic exam of the retinal arterial-venous width showing ASYMMETRY is indicative of possible trauma. This is a potential response of the autonomic nervous systems microcirculatory hemodynamics that are optically useful in validating the treatment progress. [L Image] Normal retinal artery vein width ratio is 1 to 2.  [R image] artery 0.9 mm (red)  vein 2.3mm (blue)  signifying possible increased intracranial pressure. Hemodynamic Doppler study of abnormal retinal vessels allows real time evaluation of the cerebral circulation measuring the anterior cerebral artery (ACA) with physiologic flow parameters.   















STUDY 3: WHIPLASH
Hemodynamic changes from whiplash may injure the vessels supplying the brain.  [Image L] High resolution scan of traumatized carotid artery showing turbulent flow (dark blue) and normal outer wall (red) ruling out arterial wall rupture.  [Image R] blood flow in the vertebral artery shows less flow disturbance (scattered blue) and no evidence of thrombosis which is a common cause of posttraumatic symptoms including speech and gait abnormalities


Now that more radiologists are using Doppler blood flow to examine eye disease, including systemic diseases (including diabetes, brain tumors, heart disease, sickle cell disease, etc.) that affect the eye, we are hopeful that the ophthalmologic and neurological communities will start using this noninvasive technology as well to improve noninvasive and more rapid treatment of potential eye disorders, such as cancers of the eye, diabetes and glaucoma.  Another future use will be to correlate the effect of decreased vascular pulsation in the production of cerebrospinal fluid that is removed by the cleansing glymphatic system is postulated as a contributing factor in degenerative neuromuscular disease.    
 








RECOGNIZING BRAIN HEALTH & ADDICTION
By: Dr. Leslie Valle-Montoya
It is well documented that tobacco increases the risk of different cancers such as lung, liver, and colorectal.  According to the National Health Interview Survey data from 2020, 47.1 million adults in the United States reported currently using tobacco products with 79.6 % of those being cigarette smokers [1].  If cigarette smoking continues to be one of the leading causes of preventable disease and deaths, why is cessation not easier to attain?  First, we must recognize the science behind nicotine addiction and its withdrawal effects.  Addiction is recognized to be a brain disease. Overcoming an addiction, whether it’s prescription pain pills, sugar, alcohol, nicotine or anything else, cessation is harder to exercise when the “pathways” or pleasure circuits of the brain have chronically been overstimulated.   (See complete article)





RELATED STORIES:

"GETTING MY LIFE BACK FROM CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME"  2/15/2022- Mrs. Suzanne Wheeler of Minneapolis, Minnesota is celebrated as IPHA NEWS' Researcher of the Month.  After years of suffering a life-altering disorder that currently continues to challenge the scientific community of its root causes, Mrs. Wheeler explored “outside the conventional box” of opioid prescriptions, uncovering alternative solutions that got her back on her feet and joining life again.  Invoking CHANGE against all odds by diligently searching for what’s beyond the convenient takes courage and conviction.  It is this level of academic strength and strategic leadership that comprises the Alternative Health and Wellness community. (see full feature on Mrs. Wheeler's PEMF review)

10/25/2022- HEALING, STRESS AND THE PARASYMPATHETIC SYSTEM:  Analyzing STRESS & ANXIETY from a holistic point of view means identifying the body’s interconnected systems (ie. circulatory, cardiovascular, nervous, lymphatic, endocrine etc.) and its many touch points for stimulation.   This analysis should also offer a comprehensive breakdown of the body's HEALING capacity- which includes our hormones, digestive system, immune system, brain, heart-- all the way down to our cells and mitochondria.   Stress is part of life, and comes in many forms including physical, emotional, mental and environmental. Foods we eat, unhealthy relationships, difficulties at work, toxins in our environment, even poor posture or lack of sunshine can all create stress on our bodies. (See complete report by: Dr. Roberta Kline)


HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT SPECIALIST FOR YOU: Whether you're searching for a primary care physician or a cosmetic specialist, shopping for any doctor can be quite a challenge. Ingredients for finding a professional that you can trust with your life rely heaviest on their reputation, expertise and qualifications found under smart research methods. REFERRALS: As medical professionals are now heavily participating in commercial marketing platforms (such as broadcast and podcast commercials, youtube videos, social media promotion and public relations campaigns), the most favored influencer about any practitioner is still word of mouth. At least starting with a recommendation from a friend, colleague or family member, getting positive feedback about a practitioner through others' experience is a great place to begin. (see complete report)

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 https://healthresourcedigest.blogspot.com/2023/02/addiction-2023-battle-rages-on.html

Friday, June 23, 2023

Dr. Robert Bard Presents at the 2023 NIDIskin Spring Symposium VIII

 May 19 & 20, 2023- Dr. Robert L. Bard, (Cancer Diagnostic Imaging Specialist, NYC) joins an international panel of clinical experts to lecture at the 8th Annual NIDIskin Fall Symposium.  This educational event which took place at the Weill Cornell Medical School Uris Auditorium offered an Evidence-Based Dermatology presentation to support the dermatological imaging society. 

Dr. Bard launched his special presentation on WOUND HEALING IN SKIN OF COLOR: EFFECT OF PULSED BIOFIELD TREATMENTS ON INTRADERMAL TOXINS. As an avid speaker in medical conferences, Dr. Bard donates his expertise in support of the current and next generation of clinicians by sharing his findings through vivid scanned images of pathology.  His lecture focused on his latest research project, applying non-invasive regenerative devices such as PEMF and NEAR INFRARED THERAPY to address toxin-infected skin disorders.  His case study collects clinical data and measures the therapeutic effects on the body through the use of Doppler blood flow ultrasound imaging and elastography.

Dr. Bard's combines 35+ years of clinical experience in identifying skin cancers and melanoma, where his interpretation is highly recognized by dermatologists and cancer specialists alike. His presentation summarizes the collection of quantified biometrics supported by real-time imaging from advanced ultrasound applications. His approach to capturing a time-based BEFORE AND AFTER paradigm covers identifying the original pathology (or base line) and activated results of the energy based therapeutics applied in order to record their efficacy. According to Dr. Bard, "this form of research is invaluable on the academic stage as well as supporting innovations when applying for FDA clearance or submitting these devices to market".

The NIDIskin Fall Symposium is the first accredited Confocal Microscopy Reader’s course in the United States, and the only one of its kind in the world, where attendees begin their journey toward mastering a new specialty, gain basic proficiency in two days, and can practice signing real cases in our proprietary simulation portal that mimics the experience of signing cases in real life. 


Tuesday, June 13, 2023

2023 Research: Advanced use of Extracellular Vesicles for Today's Top CHRONIC Disorders

4/12/2023 - Dr. Paul Dreschnack, NY-based surgeon and biochemical researcher announced in a medical partnership conference with the FIRST RESPONDERS CANCER RESOURCE his multi-pathology design for a new set of Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) research protocols. His research proposals are aimed to addressing some of the most highly challenging chronic disorders including PTSD, PSORIATIC ARTHRITIS, DIABETES, ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE,  and AMYHOTROPHIC LATERAL SCLEROSIS.

Under a set of new blueprints, this clinically controlled set of case studies are joined by a select national research group from multiple parts of the US. Partnership plans are currently in its final stages of review with various EV drug product manufacturers of regenerative biologic products. "With support from some of the top pharma labs, we can explore a much wider set of potential applications of these nanoparticles with the hopes of someday receiving regulatory acceptance and public use", says Dr. Dreschnack.

Dr. Dreschnack initiated his exploration of the clinical advantages of EVs in 2021 under a 2.5 year case study on its use on pathological symptoms of Bell’s Palsy patients. Out of 7 volunteer cases, he concluded the study to uncover significant success and consistent results throughout this specialized research commitment. (Image-R) 

Modern medicine continues to advance in areas of cell regenerative therapies. The concept of Extracellular Vesicles therapy possesses optimal therapeutic potentiality through the use of therapeutic molecules that are a natural product of our stem cells. Various in vitro studies have exhibited these nanoparticles or Extracellular Vesicles to contain advanced numbers of proteins, mRNA and lipids - all working to safely and effectively address the progression of specific given diseases. Though no FDA regulatory clearances have been granted to the wide clinical use of EVs, continued research and clinical trials are underway to collect more data on EV applications and show substantial promise as novel treatment strategies for diseases. 

Launch plans for mid-2023 include IRB proposals, a national fundraising campaign and the submission to partner with specific development labs to conduct multi-validation medical studies of EVs. His new research A-team includes leaderships from the medical community including senior diagnostic imaging expert, Dr. Robert Bard (NYC), epigenetics and genomics expert Dr. Roberta Kline (NM), clinical psychiatrist Dr. Janice Greene (NYC), researcher Dr. Noelle Cutter and functional medicine practitioner Dr. Leslie Valle-Montoya (CA). 

From an article published in the Journal of Modern Healing (3/2023), science advisor and epigenetics specialist Dr. Roberta Kline reported on the advancement of regenerative therapeutic strategies and their expanded avenues of success “far beyond just managing chronic diseases with long-term medications. EV’s show early promise to change this paradigm while exploring exactly how they work as the key to advancing both knowledge and integration into practice. Studying how EV’s alter gene expression through cell signaling and epigenetics will give us unique insights at the genetic and molecular level. The study of gene expression through genomics and epigenetics offers powerful synergy -whereby working together helps us reach this goal to understand and optimize the healing power of EV’s much faster.”

In addition, discussions about conducting early feasibility studies to optimize EVs performance through the use of PULSED ELECTROMAGNETIC (PEMF) and PHOTOBIOMODULATION (near infrared light) technologies are also in the works. "We are in full support of the next stage in cell regenerative therapies", states Dr. Bard. "Conventional medicine deserves a major upgrade from modern science and interventional paradigms... and being part of the team to confirm such innovations is a truly historical privilege. Combining energy therapy has shown to advance treatment and regenerative functions, making this phase of the study a sensible and exciting option."

Dr. Dreschnack states with utmost confidence and the support of esteemed colleagues in the Biochemical research community that "the science is truly there... proving this to the world is the next step and having the right team will get us fast tracked to the finish line!"


# # #

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8100822/

https://www.fda.gov/vaccines-blood-biologics/consumers-biologics/consumer-alert-regenerative-medicineproducts-including-stem-cells-and-exosomes

https://biosignaling.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12964-022-00959-4

https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsnano.2c08774#  

Tuesday, May 2, 2023

OP-ED: SLOW PROGRESS IN MEDICAL SOLUTIONS FOR URINARY INCONTINENCE

Written by: Dr. Bobbi Kline (5/1/2023)

In a previous article on urinary incontinence, I shared how it is the shameful secret that many women keep hidden. Despite the fact that a majority of women will experience urinary incontinence in their lifetime, the progress in understanding the underlying causes has been slow. As a result, diagnosis and treatment remain fundamentally the same – and woefully inadequate for millions of women.

Unfortunately, this is a pattern I see throughout so many health issues impacting women. We are still too often regarded as “too complicated” for research. We are still told these are just “women’s issues” and they are part of life. We are told not to discuss sexual function, menstrual and pelvic pain, menopausal issues … or anything that makes people uncomfortable – including the very healthcare practitioners responsible for providing women’s health care.

Part of the reason these issues make people uncomfortable is our societal view of women, their bodies, and their right to have answers to their questions and concerns. Women’s sexual health and functioning are often not given the attention and respect they deserve – in research, in clinical care, in societal values. If we had put even a fraction of all of the money that has gone into researching and treating male erectile dysfunction into women’s health issues, I would be writing a different article.

When it comes to pelvic support and urinary incontinence, the standard diagnostic evaluations are woefully inadequate. Urodynamics and pelvic exams are both intrusive and have a low level of accuracy. Urodynamic evaluation, an invasive procedure still considered the “gold standard” for evaluating urinary incontinence, is unable to provide a reliable diagnosis half the time. [1] The clinical parameters for the standard measurement of pelvic organ support is based on expert opinion, and is limited by ability to examine the pelvis in supine vs standing positions – important because gravity influences the findings. Neither evaluates the underlying anatomy, looking at the surface view rather than the pelvic support tissues themselves.

We need to find better ways to understand the underlying pathologies and how they contribute to pelvic floor issues that contribute to urinary incontinence, including prolapse. Not surprisingly, there are noninvasive technologies that already exist, but we aren’t using them. 

Imaging techniques, including CT, MRI and ultrasound have all been shown to provide helpful information related to these hidden tissues and structures. [2] Each is noninvasive, and shown to be superior to the current standard evaluations, but they are not widely used and have limited research linking the findings to effective treatments. Cost is one factor – CT and MRI are more expensive and must be done within a facility that has this equipment. They are also limited by the fact that they are static imaging technologies, unable to capture the dynamic changes that happen with the Valsalva maneuver (bearing down) or gravity. 

Ultrasound is a technology that is common in most ObGyn offices, and many urology offices – the two specialties that address pelvic floor and incontinence issues. 3D ultrasound has been shown to be highly accurate in assessing the pelvic floor structures. It is relatively inexpensive, dynamic, quantifiable and reproducible. [See: ITN feature -Digital Imaging for Pelvic Floor Disorders 9/15/2022]

If integrating 3D ultrasound into evaluating pelvic floor support and incontinence seems like a no-brainer, you’re right. So why aren’t we making better progress?

The same reason we are still so much in the dark ages with women’s health. 

The impetus to advance the research and implementation of newer and better approaches fails when it comes to the halls of power. Research is still very much dominated by men from top to bottom – determining the policies, funding research grants, conducting clinical trials, research participants, publishing results. Even moving past this hurdle, there is the issue of healthcare spending coverage and priorities. 

But we can change this. In order the shift the conversation, we need to shift the power. 

It starts with being willing to challenge the status quo. Asking the right questions. Dedicating the resources needed to explore and research. Moving beyond our individual silos of expertise to initiate a more collaborative approach to finding answers. 


1) Palaiologos, K., Annappa, M., & Grigoriadis, G. (2019). Correlation Between Urodynamic and Clinical Diagnoses in Classifying the Type of Urinary Incontinence in Women. Cureus, 11(10). https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.6016

2) Shek, K. L., & Dietz, H. P. (2016). Assessment of pelvic organ prolapse: A review. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology, 48(6), 681-692. https://doi.org/10.1002/uog.15881





 

Why I wear Pull-Ups… By: Jesi Stracham 

When Depends became too baggy after my weight loss causing leaks and the pads would slide to the side, I switched to GoodNites brand children’s diapers. Immediately, my confidence was boosted with the cute designs and panty like fit. Even though I have my bladder well managed, I still wear them daily. With my active lifestyle I like the piece of mind that if I have an accident my wheelchair cushion and clothes will still be dry. I simply rip the diaper off, clean my downstairs “area” with a baby wipe, put a new diaper on and wheel on my way. 

Often times SCI survivors suggest Botox Injections and pharmaceuticals to help with my incontinence. I used both up until April 2017 when they quit working. I searched high and low for natural alternatives after realizing how well my body felt after getting off of the pharmaceuticals. The uncomfortable constipation and dry mouth ceased within days!

Early summer 2018 I had a bladder study done. The nurse who perform the study shamed me for refusing to take the prescribed medicines. She put me in tears saying due to the amount of spasms my bladder has shrunk significantly.  She continued on with a shame train because I refused pharmaceuticals after explaining they didn’t work and made me feel funny. She placed fear deep within my soul threatening that I would need a permanent catheter in my stomach with a bag or bladder augmentation (surgery where they take a piece of your bowel to make you bladder bigger) before I knew it.  (see complete Blog entry)


About the Author

JESI STRACHAM is a trauma survivor on a mission to help individuals see the opportunity in their obstacles. She is the founder of Wheel With Me Foundation, the owner of Wheel With Me Consulting, and a fitness and growth coach. Through her struggles, she works for teaching individuals the power of our mindset. Jesi is an honest, authentic, America-loving athlete. Over the past several years, she has generated a significant following among both the spinal cord injury and able-bodied community. Her goal is simple: show the world there is an opportunity in their obstacles, restoring hope during life’s difficult moments. She helps people achieve their dreams through the importance of goal setting, taking control of what we have control over, and showing YOU what’s possible with consistent hard-work.




Using Ultrasound for the Evaluation of Incontinence

Written by: Dr. Robert L. Bard

Prolapse of the pelvic floor contents (the uterus, bladder or the anus) is also associated with incontinence. 3-D pelvic floor ultrasound is performed in two ways: 

1) transvaginal probe which goes inside the vagina 

2) transperineal scan which is a more common way for evaluating stress urinary incontinence since the trans perineal probe is applied at the outside of the pelvic floor in the area between the vagina and the anus which is called the perineum.

MRI has been used for years to image the prolapse of the pelvic organs but is being replaced by the 4D real time transperineal sonogram as it is quicker and instantaneously shows the tear in the muscular ring (levator sling) that is associated with the trauma of birth. This exam is done in the privacy of an office instead of an MRI center or hospital setting and may be completed in a few minutes by the physician or specially trained technician. The muscle bundle that supports the bladder is white on the sonogram while the tear is black and readily distinguished.   During the examination the patient participates actively by bearing down or straining (Valsalva maneuver) to provide an exact measurement of the degree of the descent of the uterus, urethra, bladder or rectum.


THERAPY

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is distinct from overactive bladder (OAB) while both may be problematic in older patients with weaker muscle tone. The KEGEL maneuver is a common therapeutic approach to improve muscle strength and diminish the loss of urine when coughing, sneezing or laughing. While the technique is simple, the learning curve is often difficult for women who are accustomed to bearing down rather than “sucking up” the anus or vagina. While 4D ultrasound is optimal for diagnosing the cause, it is sophisticated equipment and requires advanced medical skills.  It can go beyond diagnosis and aid in treatment: the demonstration of the bladder change in the proper Kegel contraction is visible to the patients as a dynamic training guide by the physical therapist.  

The bladder descends during the Valsava while the bladder and urethra move upward in the correct maneuver.  This equipment is portable so it may be brought to the patient rather than a clinic visit or a treatment facility.  The technology is also wireless and point of care (POC) images may be transmitted to a reading site for interpretation as is done in ambulances where the EKG is read remotely by the Emergency Department physician while the patient is in route.

FIG-1: Postpartum delivery and difficult childbirth are a major cause of pelvic floor trauma, muscle tears and of course, urinary and fecal incontinence.  The ovoid white muscular ring in this case on the right shows a star, which indicates that the white muscular lining, which is smooth on the right hand side of the picture is bulging and actually torn and disappeared by a black area, indicating the exact location at the extent of the tear.  This is important preoperatively for reconstructive pelvic floor surgery.  While the 3d probe takes 15 seconds to scan the entire pelvic floor surface, it takes training and of course the specialized ultrasound technology, which shows the location and the depth of the disease. More importantly, the patient dynamically assists that is active patient participation to bear down or Valsalva or hold the urine for a varied period of time is important for measuring the descent of the bladder and the uterus in the pelvic floor. Thank you very much for your attention.

For the reasons of accurate diagnosis and ease of use, pelvic floor ultrasound is widely used in Europe and becoming popular in the US. The technology is safe and a “black and white” visual aid for learning the Kegel maneuver.  Additionally, during the diagnostic evaluation, the physician will look for other etiology of the voiding dysfunction such as bladder stone, bladder cancer and cystitis as well as inflammatory urethritis which is seen with treatments such as transvaginal tape (TVT) or surgical devices that are implanted.  Complications of endometriosis and cervical, ovarian or uterine tumors may be detected and definitive treatment may be timely instituted. 


Reference:

Dietz, H.P.,  Pelvic Floor Ultrasound Ultrasound, Atlas and Textbook , 2016 Obstetrics and Gynaeoclogy- Springwood NSW Australia






DR. ROBERT BARD PRESENTS @ VIENNA INFLAMMATORY SKIN DISEASE CONFERENCE

click to enlarge November 15‐18, 2023‐ Dr. Robert Bard's graphic presentation was showcased in the 5th ISDS  Inflammatory  Skin  Disease...