MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'canada'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 01:49:40 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5158943&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FkYybUa_rHFo%2F By Daniel J. MitchellThe Congressional Budget Office has just released the update to its Economic and Budget Outlook. There are several things from this new report that probably deserve commentary, including a new estimate that unemployment will “remain above 8 percent until 2014.” This certainly doesn’t reflect well on the Obama White House, which claimed that flushing $800 billion down the Washington rathole would prevent the joblessness rate from ever climbing above 8 percent. Not that I have any faith in CBO estimates. After all, those bureaucrats still embrace Keynesian economics. But this post is not about the backwards economics at CBO. Instead, I want to look at the new budget forecast and see what degree of fiscal discipline is necessary to get rid of red ink. Th... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5158943 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 20:34:41 +0100 5158943 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5096396&cid=t_99843_113_f&fid=34625&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNeilVerselsHealthcareItBlog%2F%7E3%2FBMZN5rweIRY%2F I really would not want to live in Sarnia, Ontario. And not because it’s a hardscrabble Rust Belt town directly across the border from the equally hardscrabble—and very depressing—Port Huron, Mich. I wouldn’t want to live there because it might as well be the capital of physician resistance to technology. According to a story in Canadian Healthcare Technology’s Technology For Doctors, fully half of the 150 physicians in town will choose to retire rather than adopt EMRs. At least that’s what Dr. Kunwar Singh, president of the Lambton County Medical Society, predicts. (Needless to say, Singh is a “veteran” physician, someone who’s been in practice for 42 years.) The government of Ontario, which runs the single-payer health system in Canada’... Neil Versel's Healthcare IT Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5096396 Wed, 03 Aug 2011 02:55:11 +0100 5096396 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5086327&cid=t_99843_113_f&fid=38236&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthcareitnews.com%2Fblog%2Fjoin-organization-network-and-get-involved Often times we are so involved in our day to day jobs that we sometimes neglect our careers and the trajectory we want to try and follow.  A job should always bring some type of added skills that expand our career horizons whether it  be adding new talents acquired, engaging into new opportunities or creating and expanding our career networking.  We also have to start thinking about replacing the word “job” with “career."  And networking is an excellent mechanism to support career paths and should be used not only to try to secure a job when approp read more (Source: Healthcare IT News Blog) Healthcare IT News Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5086327 Fri, 29 Jul 2011 12:21:34 +0100 5086327 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5062501&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FBxxWwaHNRcQ%2F Hello, everyone. How was your weekend? We apologize for the delay this morning but the Pharmalot corporate campus was without juice, so we have had to switch to our Red Alert mode. We trust you understand. To cope, we are downing unusually large cups of stimulation. Meanwhile, here are some tidbits. And the usual flow of interesting items will soon appear. Have a great day… Bayer’s Xarelto Bloodthinner Matched Warfarin In Safety Study (Bloomberg News) FDA Rejects J&J’s Simponi For Additional Use (Associated Press) Prescription Drug Prices To Plunge As Patents Expire (Associated Press) Medicis CEO In The Spotlight After Deaths At His Mansion (Los Angeles Times) Express Scripts Deal With Medco Could Pressure Pharma (Dow Jones) Lupin And Medicis Sign R&D Agreement ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5062501 Mon, 25 Jul 2011 13:48:52 +0100 5062501 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5008311&cid=t_99843_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F07%2F05%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-july-5-2011%2F Another holiday’s come and gone. Whether you celebrated Canada Day or Independence Day, you may be basking in the glory of a glorious holiday or exhausted from another family gathering of trying to keep your sanity in toll. If I’ve learned anything over the years is that you could spend years working on yourself and then poof! just like that you’re back to where you started. Maybe it’s your people-pleasing ways that return when you’re in the company of old friends who knew you way back when. Or certain relatives who trigger painful childhood memories when you are in their presence. Perhaps, the extra day of freedom could remind you just how toxic your work environment is and how much you are in need of a new job. Whatever it is, I feel you. The only thing we c... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5008311 Tue, 05 Jul 2011 14:48:51 +0100 5008311 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4984689&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FEygW_voyKzU%2F Rise and shine. Another glorious day is unfolding here on the Pharmalot corporate campus, where we are moving along like a cool breeze. Of course, there is much to be done - phone calls, meetings, reading documents. You name it. And we know you can related. So grab that cup of stimulation - no excuses, please - and pick up your to-do list. Meanwhile, here are some tidbits from around your world. Have a good one… US Court Orders Seizure Of Cipla Pet Drug For Patent Violation (Dow Jones) Lilly Plans 10 Drug In Final-Stage Trials By End Of 2011 (Bloomberg News) Niaspan Prescriptions Fall After Negative Study Results (Dow Jones) Pfizer Signs Deal With Russian Venture Capital Firm For R&D (Associated Press) Forest Files COPD Drug For FDA Approval (Pharma Times) ‘Neurontin Kille... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4984689 Thu, 30 Jun 2011 11:53:38 +0100 4984689 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4953268&cid=t_99843_135_f&fid=35247&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmyjourneywithaids.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F06%2F19%2Fnot-pictured%2F View Full Album I am mindful, on this Father’s Day, that I do not have many photographs of Thomas Arnold (“Arnie”) Chaplin.  (The additional ones I do have are wedding party shots with people who might not wish to be published.)  However my memory informs me of many more, in safe-keeping with Mom, from the [...] (Source: My journey with AIDS) My journey with AIDS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4953268 Sun, 19 Jun 2011 20:51:16 +0100 4953268 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4921753&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FPIwO-IEL5xE%2F And so another working week will soon draw to a close. This is, of course, our signal to dream about weekend doings. Our modest agenda includes spending time with Mrs. Pharmalot and the short people, catching up on our own version of R&D - a never-ending quest - and maybe taking a nap. And you? Perhaps there will be time for a walk in the park? A moment with someone special? Or seize the moment and make plans to enter the Republican presidential primary? Whatever you do, have a great time. See you soon… Bristol-Myers Resolves Problems At Puerto Rico Plant (Dow Jones) Japan Does Not Plan To Recall Actos (Reuters) Germany Joins France In Suspending Actos (Reuters) FDA Links Some Prostate Drugs To Cancer Risk (Associated Press) Sanofi CEO Tells Canada To Upgrade Patent Protection (... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4921753 Fri, 10 Jun 2011 12:02:18 +0100 4921753 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893451&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fsuspect-nutritionist-certification%2F2011.06.03 The team of nutritionists at D’avignon Digestive Health Centre on Danforth Avenue in Toronto are an impressive bunch — just consider their qualifications: Louise Comtois – CNP, RNCP, Colon Therapist Heidi Horowitz – CNP, RNCP, Live Cell Analyst Marnie Ryan – CNP, Colon Therapist Natasha Audette – RHN, Colon Therapist Jane Sloan – CNP, NNCP, RhA CNP, RNCP, RHN, NNCP. I single out D’avignon only because they came up at the top of my Google search, but the story is consistent across the nutritionist community — there are an awful lot of letters next to the names of practitioners. So what exactly do they all mean? (more…) *This blog post was originally published at Skeptic North » Erik Davis* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893451 Fri, 03 Jun 2011 16:00:37 +0100 4893451 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4902523&cid=t_99843_113_f&fid=38236&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthcareitnews.com%2Fblog%2Fits-about-information-not-technology On Thursday (June 2), I joined other speakers at the IBM Healthcare Leadership Exchange, Transforming Healthcare, held at the Chicago IBM Transformation Center. My keynote presentation focused on “Healthcare in the US,” which seemed to balance the morning with the opening keynote by Susan J Hyatt, BSc (PT), MBA, CEO HyattDIO, Inc., Ontario, Canada, who discussed “Global Lessons on Delivering Strategic Healthcare Wins.” No sticky read more (Source: Healthcare IT News Blog) Healthcare IT News Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4902523 Fri, 03 Jun 2011 13:17:00 +0100 4902523 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4862625&cid=t_99843_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F05%2F25%2Fwhat-little-awesome-things-make-you-happy%2F One of my friends from blogland is Neil Pasricha, who has the wonderful site 1000 Awesome Things, where he lists, yes, awesome things! It always makes me happy to visit there. For example, some awesome things include: The Kids’ Table The smooth feeling on your teeth when you get your braces off Pulling a weed and getting all the roots with it That moment in the shower when you decide to make it a really long shower Letting go of the gas pump perfectly so you end on a round number Sneaking cheaper candy into the movie theater Picking the fastest moving line at the grocery store checkout Coming back to your own bed after a long trip Neil has also written two books of awesome things, and the second one hits the shelves today: The Book of Even More Awesome. (Neil and I bond over Canada&... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4862625 Wed, 25 May 2011 23:32:40 +0100 4862625 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4848022&cid=t_99843_113_f&fid=34625&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNeilVerselsHealthcareItBlog%2F%7E3%2F2dCY8-XWSbI%2F It’s Friday afternoon, and I realize it’s been days since I’ve posted here. (Make sure you catch my posts on EMR and HIPAA every Thursday, including my latest on Dr. Larry Weed and his critiques of current health IT systems.) I think it’s time for a rundown of some interesting developments this week. Weed apparently is not the only one who’s disappointed in the pace of change in healthcare. Dr. Bill Crounse, senior director of worldwide health for Microsoft, was at the World of Health IT conference in Budapest, Hungary, to deliver some scathing remarks at about North American health IT. According to Canadian Healthcare Technology, Crounse called the U.S. and Canada the “worst of the worst in the industrialized world in the use of IT in healthcare.”... Neil Versel's Healthcare IT Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4848022 Fri, 20 May 2011 19:32:13 +0100 4848022 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4813672&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FUGg3_Y9s14U%2F Hello and top of the morning to you. A sparkly sun is warming the Pharmalot corporate campus this morning, where we are scrambling to cope with a growing assortment of meetings and deadlines. We know you can relate. So please join us for a cup of stimulation - our flavor today is Cinnamon Cream Swirl - as you ready yourself. Meanwhile, here are some tidbits from around the world. Dig in and have a productive day… Arena Plans Shorter Study For Rejected Diet Pill (San Diego Union-Tribune) Medco CEO Sees A Biotech M&A Blitz (Reuters) FDA Asks Hip Makers For Patient Data On Metal Levels In Blood (Bloomberg News) Roche Will Seek Approval For New Skin Cancer Med (Reuters) Sanofi Plans To Revamp Animal Health Unit (Financial Times) Teva Reports A Decline In US Generic Drug Sales (Bloom... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4813672 Wed, 11 May 2011 12:09:24 +0100 4813672 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4780296&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FzFBsCsFrPg4%2F By Ilya ShapiroThe conventional wisdom is that the United States is a center-right country while Canada is a center-left one.  Yet, even as the most-left-wing president in history occupies the White House, last night the Conservative Party of Canada — which had already been steering its ship of state in a fiscally prudent direction despite only having a plurality of seats in Parliament – won a decisive victory.  Prime Minister Stephen Harper will thus lead the first first majority government by any party since 2004 (after the first election creating a majority government since 2000). How can this be? The answer comes down to three main factors: Electoral system.  Canada has a multi-party first-past-the-post parliamentary system that currently features one united ce... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4780296 Tue, 03 May 2011 12:59:34 +0100 4780296 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4762936&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FAEspvdtrmw4%2F Less than a month after the FDA refused to approve the Gardasil vaccine for preventing HPV in women ages 27 to 45, Health Canada has gone in the other direction and issued an endorsement. Although Canada is a smaller market than the US, the approval is a notable step for Merck, which has been counting on a larger demographic target to boost sorely needed vaccine revenue. In the US, Merck has been repeatedly frustrated in trying to widen the market for Gardasil. Last year, the FDA postponed a decision about approval for women ages 26 to 45 after Merck had submitted additional data. The submission was made after the agency three years ago refused to approve the vaccine for this same age bracket and, instead, sought data on a 48-month study (back story). In Canada, Gardasil is now approved to... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4762936 Thu, 28 Apr 2011 16:32:43 +0100 4762936 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4747801&cid=t_99843_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2F10Umt_26UXc%2F I’m Canadian, so let me have my moment of smugness by bragging that a recent Gallup survey declares Canada the second-happiest place on earth. (No, the top spot doesn’t belong to Disney World; Denmark takes that honor.) Tying second place with Sweden, 69% of respondents rated their Canadian life as “thriving.” Respondents were asked to rate their lives at the moment and their expectations for the next five years on a scale from one to 10. If respondents rated their lives as seven or better and their expectations as eight or better they were considered to have “thriving” well-being. If people gave lower numbers, they were considered to be “struggling” or “suffering.” Respondents who were “suffering” rated their current ... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4747801 Mon, 25 Apr 2011 16:12:05 +0100 4747801 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4709427&cid=t_99843_154_f&fid=35773&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.openmedicine.ca%2Fnode%2F305  "Auditor-General Sheila Fraser recently subjected the Yukon's Department of Health and Social Services to a review. Her report... was scathing, but the Yukon has pledged to act on every finding, something rarely seen elsewhere." [Globe & Mail]Auditor General of Canada  Yukon Health Services and Programs - 2011: Department of Health and Social Services  February 2011. Access PDFVérificateur générale du Canada  Programmes et services de santà au Yukon - 2011 : Ministère de la Santé et des Affaires sociales du Yukon  février 2011. Accéder PDF  "More than a decade after the Walkerton tragedy... Canada remains 'vulnerable to future water-quality failures, most likely in smaller systems'... Placing responsibility for drinking water upon munic... Open Medicine Blog - blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4709427 Wed, 13 Apr 2011 14:20:09 +0100 4709427 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4704734&cid=t_99843_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.drmalpani.com%2F2011%2F04%2Fhappy-couple-from-canada.html Hi, We are from Canada and this is our short story that we would like to share as noted below:First of all, would like to extend our warm gratitude to Dr.Aniruddha & Dr.Anjali Malpani, and your staff making our IVF treatment a SUCCESS !!!I am on the eleventh week of pregnancy now and hoping and always pray it will be a SUCCESS until the baby is born.Planning/deciding to undergo IVF is not a joke/easy. There are a lot of things to consider.1. Financial - IVF involves a huge amount of money like travelling expenses, hotel,food,medicine and might affect the job as well2. Stress - Need to manage your stress - IVF involves a lot of stress. 3. Taking the risk a. Job - Ready to quit the job to have full rest if required according to case to case basis before and after the treatment until... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4704734 Tue, 12 Apr 2011 03:12:00 +0100 4704734 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4677109&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fr0Fv99YQmK0%2F Rise and shine, everyone. Another day is on the way. And it is a sunny one here on the Pharmalot corporate campus, where the short people have left for the local school house and the official Pharmalot mascots are barking at squirrels. You know what this means - it is time for a cup of stimulation. Our flavor today is Southern Pecan. Please join us as we scour the news of the world. Have a great day and do send us those interesting tidbits…. Gilead Raises Prices Of Top-Selling Meds (Dow Jones) J&J Hepatitis C Drug Price Sparks Concern In France (Bloomberg News) Bayer To Consolidate And Add Jobs In New Jersey (The Daily Record) Brand And Generic Makers Clash Over Canada/EU Trade Deal (Pharma Times) Cubist Shares Jump On Teva Patent Deal (Associated Press) Link Sought Between Lab ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4677109 Tue, 05 Apr 2011 12:09:01 +0100 4677109 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4658544&cid=t_99843_133_f&fid=35452&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.graphictruth.com%2F2011%2F03%2Fharper-governments-job-creation.html  HT: Mark Crispin Millerand the good folks at reddit.The top ad ad first appeared on Craigslist and disappeared suddenly;  only to reappear on the Telecommute Job list for various Canadian cities.It has since been removed as well.But "Questions Remain." according to Canada.com. Were these legitimate offers, or simply pranks?The ad stated the purpose of hiring the writers was to "help balance the left-wing bias of the major media outlets."The ad, complete with spelling errors, instructed interested applicants to submit a 100-word post, based on the headline "Ignatieff Promises No Coallitions (sic) after Election."The posting appeared on the website in Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and Halifax.Craigslist staff removed the advertisement during the day — but another one appeared soon... Graphictruth blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4658544 Wed, 30 Mar 2011 23:02:00 +0100 4658544 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4658361&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FxKTbpjkN3VQ%2F By Daniel GriswoldIn a speech today at Georgetown University, President Obama called for a goal of cutting America’s oil imports by one-third within a decade. Like all efforts to wean Americans from big, bad imports, such a policy will mean we will all pay more than we need to for the energy that helps to power our economy. I’ll leave it to my able Cato colleagues to dissect the president’s proposal in terms of energy policy, but it terms of trade policy, this is about as bad as it gets. We Americans benefit tremendously from our relatively free trade in petroleum products. Like all forms of trade, the importation of oil produced abroad allows us to acquire it at a price far lower than we would pay if we had to rely more heavily on domestic oil supplies. The money we save buying oil ... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4658361 Wed, 30 Mar 2011 20:36:08 +0100 4658361 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4653494&cid=t_99843_133_f&fid=35452&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.graphictruth.com%2F2011%2F03%2Fwhy-im-not-voting-for-harpers.html The G20 summit caused chaos in Canada’s largest city and accomplished nothing other than a $1-billion photo-op for Stephen Harper, Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff said Monday during a campaign stop in Toronto"The Harper Government," illustrated above, is not Conservative, save in the depressingly Neoconservative (Neoliberal) sense. And that is to say, not at all. Ignatieff is wrong; that billion dollars was well spent, if you understand what Harper's Government was trying to achieve; what he was trying to communicate to ordinary citizens and the world.[N]ot only is the Conservative vision of an executive based, uniform and militaristic nation-state a coherent and substantive vision, but the Harper government has taken concrete and bold steps during a short minority government to make th... Graphictruth blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4653494 Wed, 30 Mar 2011 00:30:00 +0100 4653494 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4636602&cid=t_99843_133_f&fid=35452&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.graphictruth.com%2F2011%2F03%2Fharper-government-takes-dive.html Image via WikipediaAh, the joys of Parliamentary Democracy where the credo has allways been this; "He who fights and runs away will live to fight another day."That is to say, nobody was surprised at the outcome of the non-confidence vote, least of all "The Harper Government." As I watched the kabuki dance that is the public portion of the sausage-making live-streamed by the CBC and annotated with twitter feeds, I marveled at how unsurprised all the commenters were, and indeed, how very polished the performances were, and how little the new media altered the message.On my way to the House of Commons, where I will move non-confidence in the Harper regime. Enough is enough. #cdnpoli #lpc M_Ignatieff 5 hours ago I missed Harper's moment in the scrum, but he took n... Graphictruth blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4636602 Fri, 25 Mar 2011 20:35:00 +0100 4636602 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4636528&cid=t_99843_113_f&fid=38236&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthcareitnews.com%2Fblog%2Fafter-icd-10-will-coders-ever-regain-icd-9-efficiency-levels If anyone is suggesting that ICD-10 will not create a productivity drop in the days after compliance, they must be practicing silent protest. Most experts agree that come the flip-switch October 1, 2013 compliance deadline even seasoned, well-trained coders will take longer with the ICD-10 than they did with ICD-9. The overarching question is whether or not coders will master ICD-10 and, in so doing, resume ICD-9-era productivity? read more (Source: Healthcare IT News Blog) Healthcare IT News Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4636528 Fri, 25 Mar 2011 14:22:30 +0100 4636528 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4631648&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FLb25IzA8q8M%2F Good morning, everyone, and how are you today? Gloomy skies are hovering over the Pharmalot corporate campus again. Nonetheless, our spirits remain sunny. You know the refrain: ‘Every brand new day should be unwrapped like a precious gift.’ In other words, those meetings and deadlines may loom, but you will persevere. Meanwhile, please join us for, yes, that mandatory cup of stimulation and get ready to conquer the world. Have a good one and stay in touch… Merck Returns Blood Clot Drug to Portola (Reuters) Bayer Launches Melt-In-The-Mouth Impotence Pill In UK (Pharma Times) Abbott Settles HIV Drug Price Lawsuit With Pharmacies (Reuters) No Fracture Warnings Needed On OTC Heartburn Meds (Reuters) Canadian Access To Medicines Bill Stalls In Senate (Bridges Weekly) Amgen Say... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4631648 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 11:59:01 +0100 4631648 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4611004&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F56jJMRBUxuk%2F And so, another work will soon draw to a close. This is, of course, a signal to start daydreaming about weekend plans. Our agenda is modest: spending time with our assorted short people, catching up on some reading and promenading with the official Pharmalot mascots. What about you? Getting a headstart on spring cleaning? Perhaps there is time to take a walk in the park? Or plan the rest of your lives? Whatever you do, we hope you enjoy. Meanwhile, here are some tidbits. See you soon, everyone… Pfizer Sells A Chewable Viagra Tablet In Mexico (Reuters) FDA Rejects Lilly Drug For Alzheimer’s Test (Associated Press) Genzyme Warns EU Of Continued Thyrogen Shortage (Reuters) New Evidence That Avandia Is Riskier Than Actos (MedPage Today) Mylan Recalls Pills Over Labeling Mix Up (Ott... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4611004 Fri, 18 Mar 2011 11:46:59 +0100 4611004 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4606777&cid=t_99843_10_f&fid=35345&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.GIDEONonline.com%2F2011%2F03%2F17%2Fbotulism-in-canada%2F A recent episode involving contaminated jelly belies the fact that current botulism rates in Canada are only half those reported in the United States [see graph] The following background data on botulism in Canada are abstracted from the Gideon e-book series. [1,2] Primary references are available on request. Historical background: The first outbreak of botulism in Canada was recorded in 1919. - A total of 100 outbreaks involving over 230 cases had been reported to 2005. - Botulism is primarily encountered among the First Nations and Inuit people. - Rates of 30 per 100,000 per year are reported among the Inuit. - Most cases in recent years have been caused by fermented salmon roe (‘stink eggs’ or ‘gink’) in British Columbia; and fermented sea mammal meat among the ... GIDEON blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4606777 Fri, 18 Mar 2011 06:11:35 +0100 4606777 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4606050&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FM_ivj0IUcGM%2F Some doctors are writing significantly more prescriptions for powerful painkillers such as OxyContin than others and the trend is blamed by some on undue influence from drugmakers. The issue was raised thanks to a study analyzing prescription trends among physicians in Ontario, where doctors who wrote the largest number of scrips also had the highest numbers of patient deaths linked to the drugs. The study examined prescription records from 2006 for people ages 15 to 64 who qualified for drug coverage. Of 408 people whose deaths were linked to opioid painkillers, 166 - or 40 percent - were given at least one scrip in the preceding 12 months. And of these, 102 received a final script before death from a family physician. And 62 percent of those who died while in the care of a family physici... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4606050 Thu, 17 Mar 2011 14:00:54 +0100 4606050 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4575247&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F0Udf2nUwwkU%2F And so another working week will soon draw to a close. This, of course, means that the time has come to daydream about weekend plans. Our agenda is rather modest - we hope to do fun things with assorted short people, catch up on some sleep and read interesting documents about a big drugmaker (this can actually be relaxing). What about you? Will you cavort with a special someone? Run some errands? Make plans to escape somewhere? Whatever your fancy, be safe and enjoy. Meanwhile, here a few tidbits. See you soon… Merck Not Obligated To Accept Bid For Dutch Organon Unit (Dow Jones) Amgen Will Buy Pfizer Plant In Ireland (Bloomberg News) Arena Pharma Narrows Losses (Associated Press) Roche’s Accutane Caused Tragedy For An Actor (Bloomberg News) Dendreon Gets OK To Expand Provenge C... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4575247 Fri, 11 Mar 2011 12:37:29 +0100 4575247 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4570761&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FzGaMvXkB8L0%2F After weeks of anticipation and furious lobbying, Canada’s House of Commons passed a bill called C-393, which was designed to allow generic versions of patented AIDS meds to be sent to developing countries. The bill was conceived to amend a 2004 law called Canada’s Access to Medicines Regime, which proved ineffective. Since its passage six years ago, only one license was ever issued and this involved exporting just one order of an AIDS med to Rwanda. However, the legislation, which the pharmaceutical industry has fought over concerns that intellectual property rights would be undermined, still has another hurdle to clear, because it must still be approved by the Senate before becoming law. And the Senate is controlled by the Conservative Party, and supporters are now ramping up th... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4570761 Thu, 10 Mar 2011 14:01:41 +0100 4570761 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4560269&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fbig-herbas-research-deficit-why-it-isnt-about-the-money%2F2011.03.08 This is a guest post from Erik Davis of Skeptic North. ********** Bankers, Buyouts & Billionaires: Why Big Herba’s Research Deficit Isn’t About The Money It’s a scene from the blogosphere that’s become all too familiar. A skeptic challenges a natural health product for the lack of an evidentiary base. A proponent of that product responds that the skeptic has made a logical error — an absence of evidence is not evidence of absence, and in such a scenario it’s not unreasonable to rely on patient reporting and traditional uses as a guide. The skeptic chimes back with a dissertation on the limits of anecdotal evidence and arguments from antiquity — especially when the corresponding pharma products have a data trail supporting their safety and efficacy. The pr... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4560269 Tue, 08 Mar 2011 22:00:09 +0100 4560269 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4527720&cid=t_99843_86_f&fid=34445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwomenshealthnews.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F02%2F27%2Fsunday-news-round-up-sunburn-edition%2F A bit of what I’ve been reading this week, when I haven’t been outside getting a mild sunburn. In February. Via fellow librarian Bobbie Newman, I learned of this piece, “The Hazards of Leading Culture Change” (click on the download link for the PDF). It’s kind of oriented toward businesses/organizations instead of movements/activism, but there were a few points I thought were relevant: “When you are up to your backside in alligators,” goes the oft-quoted line, “it is hard to remember you were there to drain the swamp.” Organizations under pressure are fraught with alligators-those seemingly never ceasing crises that keep leaders up at night. But, if all the energy goes into simply fighting alligators, there will always be alligators. Culture change is... Women's Health News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4527720 Sun, 27 Feb 2011 17:34:44 +0100 4527720 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4525032&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fnot-enough-psychiatric-beds%2F2011.02.26 I read today that Eastern Ontario has started a bed registry to keep track of where open psychiatric beds are available. This is something I’ve long advocated. The United States now has less than 10 percent of the beds it used to have 50 years ago. Granted, treatment has improved and community resources are enhanced. But there are still areas that often do not have a sufficient number of hospital beds for folks needing acute inpatient psychiatric care. The Ontario story described in the Ottawa Citizen states that six of the area hospitals have been connected to a computerized “bed board” that provides real-time information on who has an appropriate bed available. This saves time in the ER and gets patients to needed treatment more quickly. Otherwise calls need to be made... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4525032 Sat, 26 Feb 2011 19:00:00 +0100 4525032 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4512617&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F3sAMB9LDD1o%2F Rise and shine, everyone. Another day is on the way. And as usual, we are preparing by quaffing the mandatory cup of stimulation - our flavor today is Golden French Toast. We would also like to remind your that we are hosting a webinar on requirements for disclosing payments to physicians (please look here). Meanwhile, here are a few items of interest to help you on your way. We hope today is productive and you achieve your goals. Have a good one… Texas AG Wants Actos Marketing Documents From Lilly (Dow Jones) US Protests Canadian Drugmaker Insolvency Case (Dow Jones) Vertex Reports Significant Data For Cystic Fibrosis Drug (The Street) India Begins Review Of Foreign Takeovers Of Drugmakers (Economic Times) Takeda Pulls Pain Drug That Is Now Called Useless (Japan Times) CMO Consolida... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4512617 Wed, 23 Feb 2011 12:48:46 +0100 4512617 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4507262&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FA4YRqrIWVIY%2F By Daniel J. MitchellAmerica faces a fiscal crisis. The burden of federal spending has doubled during the Bush-Obama years, a $2 trillion increase in just 10 years. But that's just the tip of the proverbial iceberg. Because of demographic changes and poorly designed entitlement programs, the federal budget is going to consume larger and larger shares of America's economic output in coming decades. For all intents and purposes, the United States appears doomed to become a bankrupt welfare state like Greece. But we can save ourselves. A previous video showed how both Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton achieved positive fiscal changes by limiting the growth of federal spending, with particular emphasis on reductions in the burden of domestic spending. This new video from the Center for Freedom an... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4507262 Tue, 22 Feb 2011 14:16:41 +0100 4507262 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4507582&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fjhk8uLvM9QY%2F Call it congressional deja vu. Last week, a pair of bills that previously went nowhere were again introduced and both take aim at brand-name drugmakers. The first, called the Say No to Drug Ads Act, would eliminate tax breaks for direct-to-consumer advertising and was introduced by Jerry Nadler, a Democratic Congressman from New York who failed to enlist any co-sponsors. The rationale for his repeat effort is that DTC ads allow drugmakers to “keep prices artificially high, steering consumers – and physicians – away from generics…It’s bad enough that TV drug ads mislead consumers and tout benefits of high-priced drugs without properly conveying the risks, but the drug companies don’t need extra subsidies to do so,” he says in a statement. (You can read the bill her... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4507582 Tue, 22 Feb 2011 13:27:06 +0100 4507582 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4495150&cid=t_99843_83_f&fid=34856&url=http%3A%2F%2Finsidesurgery.com%2F2011%2F02%2Fplastic-surgeon-dr-don-lalonde-resigns-hospital-position-due-lack-patient-access%2F Prominent Canadian surgeon Dr. Don Lalonde has resigned an important internal hospital position at Saint John Regional Hospital in New Brunswick, Canada because of his dismay over long operating wait times. (Source: Inside Surgery) Inside Surgery blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4495150 Fri, 18 Feb 2011 15:25:12 +0100 4495150 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4495436&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FUG_9mGgMAXg%2F And so, another work week will soon draw to a close. You know what that means: daydreaming about weekend plans. And this will be a long weekend here in the states. We expect to catch up with family, promenade with the official Pharmalot mascots and tend to sundry chores. What about you? Will you spend time with a special person? Take a long walk? Curl up with an e-book? Whatever you do, we hope you have a swell time. Meanwhile, here are some items to get you started. Be safe and stay in touch… FDA Rules For Biosimilars Are Coming Soon (Bloomberg News) Canada Lost More Than 3,600 Jobs Last Year (InPharma-Technologist) Inspire Pharma Restructures And Cuts 65 Jobs (Raleigh News & Observer) AstraZeneca To Invest $150M In Plant In Russia (Reuters) FDA Defends Record For Approving Dev... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4495436 Fri, 18 Feb 2011 13:07:48 +0100 4495436 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4482876&cid=t_99843_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F_yJ4wQY3NAs%2F We’re delighted to add Brain Resource to the roster of Sponsors of the upcoming 2011 SharpBrains Summit, and the Center for  Technology and Aging and the Brain Injury Association of Canada to the roster of Partners. Thank you for your support! New Sponsor Brain Resource brings new insights and new efficiencies to managing brain health. Its proprietary platforms are used to predict who will best respond to what drug, and develop new drugs, to provide objective reports from on-line assessments of brain health across the lifespan (including ADHD, Depression, Anxiety and Schizophrenia), and to match individualized profiles with brain training exercises & interactive videos to optimize wellness & brain function. New Partners The Brain Injury Association of Canada has a mandate to im... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4482876 Wed, 16 Feb 2011 02:27:03 +0100 4482876 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4450387&cid=t_99843_122_f&fid=34755&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneuropsychological.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F02%2Funiversity-of-victoria-honours-chris.html The University of Victoria is honouring alumnus Chris Fibiger, neuroscientist, this evening, along with ten other distinguished graduates.Read the full press release (Source: BrainBlog) BrainBlog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4450387 Tue, 08 Feb 2011 17:08:00 +0100 4450387 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4446032&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FqZDR45Q5V5o%2F A trade deal being negotiated between Canada and the European Union could cost Canadians another $2.8 billion annually in drug costs - notably, by delaying the availability of lower-cost generics in Canada by about 3.5 years - if certain proposals are cemented, according to a new report commissioned by generic drugmakers. During the talks, the EU has sought various changes in Canadian laws and regulations governing intellectual property concerning brand-name meds. These include extending the term of patent protection by up to five years if drugs are bogged down in the regulatory approval process; lengthening the period of data exclusivity from eight years to 10 years or more; and strengthening notice of compliance regulations by adding an appeals process. The upshot is that Canadian payers... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4446032 Mon, 07 Feb 2011 16:24:19 +0100 4446032 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4446036&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FjcEW-wZX9A8%2F Hello, everyone, and nice to see you again. We hope the weekend was refreshing and interesting. Now, of course, the routine returns as those meetings and deadlines beckon. To cope, we are brewing our usual cup to stimulation - our flavor today is Gingerbread - and invite you to join us. Or grab a bottle of water, if you prefer. Meanwhile, here are a few tidbits to help you get started. Hope your day goes well and do stay in touch… AstraZeneca And Wellpoint To Conduct CE Studies (Dow Jones) Glaxo To Pay $250M To Resolve Avandia Lawsuits (Bloomberg News) Canada Debates HPV Vaccines For Boys (CTV) Pfizer Will Buy Danish Consumer Health Business (Associated Press) Roche Says Turkish Price Cuts Hurt Investment (Bloomberg News) Glaxo Updates Avandia Labeling (Associated Press) AstraZeneca ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4446036 Mon, 07 Feb 2011 12:54:46 +0100 4446036 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4419451&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FvXrdzviin2U%2F A closely watched debate will get under way in Canada today over a bill, called C-393, which was designed to allow generic versions of patented AIDS meds to be sent to developing countries. The bill was conceived to amend a 2004 law called Canada’s Access to Medicines Regime, which proved ineffective. Since its passage six years ago, only one license was ever issued and this involved exporting just one order of an AIDS med to Rwanda. Two months ago, however, a Canadian House of Commons committee eliminated a key reform, notably the one-license solution. This would provide a generic drugmaker with a single compulsory license to export lower-cost meds to developing countries covered by the law, rather than requiring a separate negotiation and licensing process for every single order f... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4419451 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 14:30:55 +0100 4419451 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4394688&cid=t_99843_135_f&fid=35247&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmyjourneywithaids.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F01%2F24%2Fa-grand-old-montreal-building-enters-a-new-phase%2F When I read news from over the weekend that another former Montréal banking landmark is up for sale – there’s a wealth of information from this link – I found the photo (below) of “The Canadian Bank of Commerce” which I took a few years ago. (In 1961 it merged with The Imperial Bank of [...] (Source: My journey with AIDS) My journey with AIDS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4394688 Tue, 25 Jan 2011 04:19:13 +0100 4394688 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4382948&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FEIoAa660t8g%2F For nearly four years, Celgene has been locked in a dispute with Canada’s Patented Medicine Prices Review Board over the agency’s insistence on getting pricing info for Thalomid. At issue: Celgene was selling its Thalomid treatment at a higher price in Canada than elsewhere and the board maintained that it has jurisdiction to order Celgene to lower its price (see the board decision). After all, Health Canada gave the board the power to review international pricing info of patented drugs sold in Canada to protect consumers from excessive prices. But Celgene argued Thalomid was sold at its New Jersey plant and shipped to Canadian docs, and so the board does not have jurisidiction. Celgene then yanked the drug and won a federal court decision, sending the dispute went all the way to t... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4382948 Fri, 21 Jan 2011 15:19:35 +0100 4382948 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4377792&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FshWlI8o-q9M%2F Rise and shine. Another day is on the way. And here on the Pharmalot corporate campus, where the official mascots are barking and the short people are scurrying off to the school houses, we are preparing for the usual meetings and deadlines. We imagine you are doing the same. So as always, please join us for a needed cup of stimulation and take a moment to peruse the news of the world. We hope your day is productive and please stay in touch… Vertex Hepatitis C Drug Gets Priority Review (Associated Press) Merck Confirms Bleeding Risk With New Clotbuster (Reuters) Perrigo Buys Assets Of Paddock Labs (Bloomberg News) Forest Labs Says Depression Drug Fails In Study (Associated Press) UK Plans To Overhaul The NHS (The Guardian) Parents Upset At FDA Panel Rejection Of Lilly Drug (Xconomy) ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4377792 Thu, 20 Jan 2011 13:03:28 +0100 4377792 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4360985&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fhomeopathy-why-is-the-canadian-government-regulating-a-scam%2F2011.01.17 Regular readers of the Better Health blog are familiar with the shoddy science behind homeopathy (an outdated system of “medical” treatment that relies on water dilution and shaking to ‘”strengthen” the effects of drugs). But because homeopathic placebos have been marketed so successfully (even receiving paid endorsements from hockey teams), the Ontario government has decided to regulate homeopathic practices. In this terrific news exposé, reporters ask if it’s appropriate for the government to regulate health scams. In doing so, are they not lending credibility to modern-day snake oil? Check out these videos and let me know what you think. Is there a roll for government in regulating homeopathy? Part 1:   (more…) (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4360985 Mon, 17 Jan 2011 13:00:14 +0100 4360985 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4294616&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FuhcdnyGW0Tk%2F By Chris EdwardsBloomberg is reporting more bad news for the nation’s air traffic control system, which is run by the Federal Aviation Administration. The FAA is $500 million overbudget and six years behind schedule on a $2.1 billion technology upgrade project. The FAA has a long history of mismanaged technology projects, and so the latest screw-ups are nothing new. Yet the nation needs high-tech advances in air traffic control more than ever to ease our increasingly congested airspaces. There is a better way to run air traffic control—a private sector way, as Canada has been demonstrating. In 1996, Canada converted its government air traffic control system to a private nonprofit corporation. Nav Canada has been a smashing success, providing an excellent model for possible U.S. reforms... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4294616 Mon, 27 Dec 2010 15:53:48 +0100 4294616 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4233363&cid=t_99843_135_f&fid=35247&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmyjourneywithaids.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F12%2F05%2Fmemories-revisited%2F Holiday stories are nothing if not repetitive. These memories crossed my mind again today so, after double-checking to see that I had covered mostly everything, I’m left only to re-post! From 13 December 2009, I give you Christmas church candles and Coca-Cola chuckles. (Source: My journey with AIDS) My journey with AIDS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4233363 Sun, 05 Dec 2010 15:03:05 +0100 4233363 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4230284&cid=t_99843_135_f&fid=35247&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmyjourneywithaids.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F12%2F05%2Fmemories-revisited%2F Holiday stories are nothing if not repetitive. These memories crossed my mind again today so, after double-checking to see that I had covered mostly everything, I’m left only to re-post! From 13 December 2009, I give you Christmas church candles and Coca-Cola chuckles. (Source: My journey with AIDS) My journey with AIDS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4230284 Sun, 05 Dec 2010 15:03:05 +0100 4230284 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4214483&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FZvMCwRENZ_o%2F Over the next few days, countless grandmothers - and so-called ‘grand-others’ - will hold vigils across Canada in hopes of convincing Parliament to revive a recently gutted bill, which was designed to amend a controversial 2004 law that was supposed to allow generic versions of patented AIDS meds to be exported to developing countries. Earlier this month, the Canadian House of Commons Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Technology eliminated key reforms proposed for the bill. Known as C-393, the bill was supposed to fix the Access to Medicines Regime (CAMR). But the law proved ineffective - since passage six years ago, only one license was ever issued and this involved exporting just one order of an AIDS med to Rwanda. “There are further opportunities to amend and... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4214483 Tue, 30 Nov 2010 13:29:36 +0100 4214483 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4207352&cid=t_99843_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdoctorandpatient.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F11%2Fcanadian-couple-success-story.html We have been married for 7 years now. We tried to get pregnant after the first year of marriage with no success. We then tried IVF clinics in Canada the first Doctor we went to we did IVF it was a positive result only to find out that it was a chemical pregnancy. We took that very hard because we wanted to have a baby and we wanted to start our family right away. This Doctor told us that because of age that we had to use a donor’s egg we despised that thought we did not accept it so we decided to go to another Doctor. We were with this Doctor for 2 years trying all kinds of treatment, firstly , IUIs with no success, we then decided to try IVF again but every cycle my eggs got lesser and lesser and not developing the way they should for a successful IVF procedure so I we would be detour t... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4207352 Sun, 28 Nov 2010 17:18:00 +0100 4207352 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4207258&cid=t_99843_83_f&fid=34856&url=http%3A%2F%2Finsidesurgery.com%2F2010%2F11%2Fcash-bribes-reported-widespread-canada-timely-care%2F Vivian Green is claiming that she paid a $2000 bribe to get her mother’s surgery moved to the top of the waiting list, but that it was not enough to get the surgeon of her choice. She has decided to report this to medical authorities in Canada who say they are shocked, shocked that such practices are occurring. (Source: Inside Surgery) Inside Surgery blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4207258 Sun, 28 Nov 2010 05:42:01 +0100 4207258 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4197357&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fzs1JuMdwgfQ%2F Once again, controversy is erupting over British Columbia’s PharmaCare program. The latest flare up centers on a previously undisclosed plan by the health ministry to give the pharmaceutical industry greater input into the process used to review drugs for the PharmaCare formularly placement. A Sept. 30 memo from British Columbia’s deputy health minister John Dyble to unnamed “stakeholders” describes four separate “engagement points” in the “enhanced review process” that would determine which drugs would be covered by PharmaCare. The purpose is to create “increased sponsor engagement,” according to the Sept. 30 memo (see here). The proposed “engagement points” for industry, which are being reviewed today at a closed-do... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4197357 Wed, 24 Nov 2010 16:48:39 +0100 4197357 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4187060&cid=t_99843_154_f&fid=35773&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.openmedicine.ca%2Fnode%2F287 Canadians visiting emergency departments for care, instead of seeing primary health care providers Health Council of Canada releases 2010 Commonwealth Fund International Health Policy Survey results. Report: How Do Canadians Rate the Health Care System? The bulletin indicates that although, Canadians feel strongly about their health care system, they recognize the need for key improvements to the system. Over half of Canadians surveyed feel that fundamental changes are required to make the system work better. "What Canadians are saying is 'We want to keep Medicare. We believe our system is world class. But we are not happy with our access to care in a timely and coordinated way. So we must fix it, to improve our current system," said John G. Abbott, CEO, Health Council of Canada. "And this... Open Medicine Blog - blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4187060 Sat, 20 Nov 2010 21:36:01 +0100 4187060 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4164661&cid=t_99843_135_f&fid=35247&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmyjourneywithaids.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F11%2F13%2Fan-historic-church-building-lives-into-the-future-with-the-past%2F Crédit-photo: Massicotte et Dignard Une traduction ( +/- ) suit. That glass atrium between the church on the left and the social hall on the right was, until renovations began, an empty space most of the time – except in the weeks leading up to Christmas when a pre-fabricated wall, about half the height of [...] (Source: My journey with AIDS) My journey with AIDS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4164661 Sat, 13 Nov 2010 23:50:54 +0100 4164661 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4142747&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fmedical-devices-daylight-savings-time-and-y2k-nostalgia%2F2010.11.07 Remember that cold December in 1999 when we all thought that planes would soon be dropping out of the sky, nuclear power plants were to be melting down, and the world was going to end? This weekend Health Canada is giving clinicians across the country (and really all of North America) an opportunity to feel the anxiety, fear, and excitement all over again. In 2007, the dates for switching between Standard and Daylight Saving time were changed, and the authorities, three years into the new schedule, have issued a warning for this weekend’s one hour rollback: Medical equipment manufactured prior to 2007 may not function optimally if the equipment has not been updated by manufacturers to compensate for the new dates. To date, Health Canada has not received any reports of device malfunct... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4142747 Sun, 07 Nov 2010 22:00:13 +0100 4142747 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4139481&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FYx4Lr3S96k8%2F Good morning, everyone. And we are happy to say that the time has come to daydream - just a wee bit - about the weekend. With any luck, we hope to catch up on some reading, perhaps see a movie and frolic with the short people. Never mind the leaves piling up. What about you? A drive in the country? Dinner with someone special? Whatever you do, have a good time. Meanwhile, here are some tidbits. See you soon… FDA Approves Lilly’s Cymbalta For Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain (Reuters) Roche Melanoma Drugs Shows Promise In Study (Reuters) Canada’s Share Of Health Spending To Drop (PharmaTimes) Acceleron Cuts 40 Percent Of Its Workforce (Boston Globe) Teva Backs 2015 Goals (The Wall Street Journal) Zydus Claims Injunction Against Generic Strattera Doesn’t Apply (Law.com) G... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4139481 Fri, 05 Nov 2010 12:06:46 +0100 4139481 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4106064&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FjEVliExIRuE%2F Hello, everyone. Nice to see you again. Hope your weekend was refreshing and relaxing. Now, of course, the routine returns as we gear up for those meetings and deadlines. To cope, we are brewing our favorite cup of stimulation. Please join us as we peruse the news of the world and continue our quest for interesting items. Tidbits are always welcome. Hope your day goes well and see you soon… Novartis Menveo Vaccine Protects Infants In Study (Bloomberg News) Glaxo Cuts Cervarix Price By 30 Percent In Canada (Reuters) Chinese SFDA Steps Up Fake Avastin Investigation (Shanghai Daily) Alcon Names Dan Vasella As Chairman (MarketWatch) FDA Finds High Levels Of Peroxide In Batch of Crospovidone (InPharma-Technologist) J&J Faces UK Class-Action Suit Over Hip Devices (The Daily Mail) Penn... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4106064 Mon, 25 Oct 2010 11:40:04 +0100 4106064 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4077354&cid=t_99843_112_f&fid=34971&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdoctorandpatient.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F10%2Ftaking-infertile-patients-for-ride.html I got an email from a patient whose fallopian tubes were blocked at the fimbrial end. I explained to her that her best option would be IVF.She was very concerned about how expensive IVF was; and wanted to explore alternative options. She sent me a link to this website - Blocked Fallopian Tube Kit (USA & Canada)http://biotanicalhealth.com/products/blocked-fallopian-tube-kit-usa-canada and asked me my opinion as to whether this would be useful.Visiting this site made my blood boil - and also taught me a lot about how people will prey on an infertile patient's desperation and ignorance and take them for a ride. It's also a great example of clever marketing ! The manufacturer has cleverly packaged a few herbs, tampons, books and DVDs ( costing about US $ 50) - and is selling them as a Kit ... The Patient's Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4077354 Sun, 17 Oct 2010 07:23:00 +0100 4077354 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4065356&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FXaKuW9VKokY%2F By Adam SchaefferThe Washington Post reports that Michelle Rhee is on her way out of the DC Public School system: D.C. Schools Chancellor Michelle A. Rhee will announce Wednesday that she is resigning at the end of this month, bringing an abrupt end to a tenure that drew national acclaim but that also became a central issue in an election that sent her patron, Mayor Adrian M. Fenty, to defeat. Rhee survived three contentious years that made her a superstar of the education reform movement and one of the longest-serving school leaders in the city in two decades. Student test scores rose, and the teachers union accepted a contract that gave the chancellor sweeping powers to fire the lowest-performing among them. No man or woman, mayor, chancellor or superintendent can significantly and perma... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4065356 Wed, 13 Oct 2010 13:05:01 +0100 4065356 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4055958&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FnhT6tumVJgc%2F A senior Health Canada analyst who reviews drugs before they go on the public market is suing his boss for allegedly branding him as mentally unstable and potentially violent after he opposed a government policy on labeling hormone drugs for men, The Ottawa Citizen reports. Thaddeus Yarney had argued against an alleged policy proposed by a Health Canada director to remove a statement from drug labeling that andropause (otherwise known as male menopause) is a condition that can be treated by testosterone drugs. This is a contentious issue that was the subject of a recent study in The New England Journal of Medicine (see here). Yarney, a reproductive endocrinologist, had what was described as a prestigious and unblemished career for 25 years until 2005, when he started reporting to a new bos... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4055958 Mon, 11 Oct 2010 12:03:00 +0100 4055958 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4045094&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fhealth-benefits-of-green-tea-omega-3-combo%2F2010.10.08 We have know for some time that there are health benefits from drinking green tea. Research also shows that Omega 3 fatty acids have beneficial effects on a number of organs in the body, including the cardiovascular system, the brain, and even depression. Dr. Fereidoon Shahidi, research professor in the Department of Biochemistry at Memorial University in Newfoundland, Canada, is hoping to show that green tea polyphenols, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), may also prevent colon cancer and even have anti-viral effects when combined with certain Omega 3 fatty acids. “We know from experience that green tea is not well absorbed by the body,” Dr. Shahidi said. “Our premise was to see if by adding something to it that has its own benefits, like Omega 3 fatty acids, we might g... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4045094 Fri, 08 Oct 2010 16:00:00 +0100 4045094 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4045079&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FEfdT3MN1wKo%2F By Chris EdwardsI blogged about how Canadian government spending cuts since the mid-1990s coincided with strong economic growth. Let’s take a closer look at the spending cuts. The chart shows Canadian federal spending from 1984 to 2009 in actual, or nominal, dollars. Spending includes all “discretionary” and “entitlement” programs, as we would call them, but excludes interest payments. (Data are here). Spending peaked in the early 1990s, and it relied on massive deficit finance. As a result, interest costs were spiralling out of control. The prime minister and his finance minister–members of the center-left Liberal Party–decided to reverse course and start cutting. They cut spending from $123 billion in in 1995 to $111 billion in 1997,... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4045079 Fri, 08 Oct 2010 01:41:00 +0100 4045079 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3987036&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FD4c9mrf8LPQ%2F By Tad DeHavenCanada’s private air traffic control system, Nav Canada, recently received its second “Eagle Award” from the International Air Transport Association. The Eagle Awards “honor air navigation service providers and airports for outstanding performance in customer satisfaction, cost efficiency, and continuous improvement.” In naming Nav Canada “the best” ATC, the IATA said the following in its press release: Nav Canada is a global leader in the efficient implementation and reliable delivery of air traffic control procedures and technologies. It actively engages its customers at all levels in regular and meaningful consultations. “The performance of Nav Canada has been enhanced by the right technical and operational investments following extensive cost/benefit a... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3987036 Mon, 20 Sep 2010 19:41:28 +0100 3987036 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3969185&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FZNSkdvTLV6k%2F A universal prescription drug plan could save Canada about $10.7 billion, or 43 percent of annual spending on medicines, according to a report from the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives. The projection is based on the premise that private insurance is more expensive to administer and consolidating existing coverage networks would allow the government to make lower-cost bulk purchases. As an example, the report states that administrative fees for public plans in Ontario and Quebec were estimated at 2 percent, but were 8 percent for private plans. In total health spending, Canada’s public program had administrative costs of 1.3 percent compared with 13.2 percent for private plans. And so the authors “conservatively infer” that at least 6 percent of costs for drug insuranc... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3969185 Tue, 14 Sep 2010 12:48:57 +0100 3969185 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3962010&cid=t_99843_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fdependency-is-a-ravenous-beast%2F The Governor General of Canada, Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean delivered the following Speech on the Occasion of the 20th Anniversary of the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse The fight against dependency is not a fair one. For dependency is a ravenous beast. It stalks us at every turn, feeding off our fears, our anguish, our frailties. It devours us from the inside out. This is how dependency gathers strength, conquering reason, will, self. It seems such a daunting task to root out dependency because it ensnares its prey in invisible chains. Chains that bind together to form a complex web of social ills. Chains whose weight is borne by our families, our friends, and the community as a whole. Faced with this elusive phenomenon and the suffering it causes, it i... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3962010 Sun, 12 Sep 2010 15:48:00 +0100 3962010 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3934479&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fcanadians-warned-to-protect-themselves-against-unvaccinated-californians%2F2010.09.04 The Public Health Agency of Canada has issued a “travel health notice” to its citizens who plan to travel to California. Childhood vaccination against whooping cough (pertussis) has dropped low enough to result in a 7-fold increase in the number of infections over the past year alone. An increasing number of parents are opting out of vaccines, a trend that could threaten to reverse the preventive health gains we’ve made against certain infectious diseases this past century. How scary is that? Incidentally, whooping cough can be lethal — killing a small percentage of kids who suffocate from the damage it does to the respiratory tract. For more information about whooping cough, I recommend the Mayo Clinic’s consumer health website. To all the moms and dads ou... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3934479 Sat, 04 Sep 2010 14:17:35 +0100 3934479 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3911670&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2F197411%2F You Go, Canada. Our neighbors to the north just moved to ban BPA. (via Inhabitat) Post from: BlissTree (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3911670 Fri, 27 Aug 2010 18:55:55 +0100 3911670 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3911867&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FuRHkwC75RlU%2F How’s this for creative governing? The Toronto city council voted yesterday to call on Pfizer and Eli Lilly to help finance a 410-foot flagpole that would fly a Canadian flag the size of a football field in an industrial area, The National Post reports. The idea is to create a renowned monument, such as St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome or Trafalgar Square in London, by which the city would be known, according to the deputy mayor. Local laws, however, prevent the local business improvement area from leasing or owning land, so the scheme is left to the city to buy the land where the flagpole would be erected. However, such a move would require as much as $10 million. To defray the cost, the council passed a resolution to seek corporate sponsorship from Pfizer and Lilly, since they have a... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3911867 Fri, 27 Aug 2010 13:32:56 +0100 3911867 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3865237&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2F194889%2F Go, Walmart! Well, go Walmart Canada. At the beginning of 2010, Walmart Canada convinced 24 of Canada’s largest companies to participate in a sustainability project that would reduce their environmental impact. So far, so good. (via Fast Company) Post from: BlissTree (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3865237 Fri, 13 Aug 2010 19:02:48 +0100 3865237 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3862199&cid=t_99843_154_f&fid=35946&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCanadianMedicine%2F%7E3%2FGQfunrHTmZI%2Flistening-in-to-brain-chatter.html A microchip will soon be wedded to human neuronsIt looks like Canadian researchers are at the threshold of a scientific breakthrough that may pave the way to better meds and superior control of artificial limbs.Dr. Naweed Syed, a neurobiologist at the University of Calgary, was part of the team that wowed the international scientific world six years ago by successfully fusing mollusc brain cells (in this case pond snails) with a one-millimeter square silicon chip. Now he’s at it again. Dr. Syed, who heads cell biology and anatomy at the U of C, intends to marry human neurons this time around – taken from the brain tissue of a patient undergoing surgery for epilepsy – with the silicon-polymer chip (Biomedical Microdevices).This will be another step towards being able to not only “li... Canadian Medicine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3862199 Thu, 12 Aug 2010 19:55:00 +0100 3862199 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3831324&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Feco-friendly-shopping-ethicaldeal-com%2F We’re addicted to those email coupon services — a full-body massage for $20? Yes, please. And now a new one has us excited for the future of eco-friendly shopping: ethicalDeal.com. Dubbed the “Green Groupon,” ethicalDeal offers exclusive discounts on the best green things to do, see, and buy. For now, the service is only available for deals in Vancouver, Canada, but we’re hoping ethicalDeal will come to a city near us very soon. (Are you listening, ethicalDeal?) Anything that makes living a green life more affordable is a service that the entire continent (and world) can use. Post from: BlissTree Eco-Friendly Shopping: ethicalDeal.com (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3831324 Fri, 06 Aug 2010 20:10:27 +0100 3831324 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3823169&cid=t_99843_154_f&fid=35946&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCanadianMedicine%2F%7E3%2FO_Orz-eNKxk%2Frelistor-may-weaken-gi-wall.html When to bewareAs all meds do, mythylnaltrexone bromide (Relistor) has its share of possible side effects, the most common being dizziness, flatulence, mild diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, and hyperhidrosis. Severe reactions include a serious case of any already mentioned, or allergic reactions.Today, Health Canada and Wyeth Canada added a new possible adverse reaction to the list: a heightened risk of gastrointestinal perforation, especially in those with GI cancers and other conditions that could weaken the gastrointestinal wall.When Relistor came onto the scene – it was approved by Health Canada on March 28, 2008 – it relieved opioid-induced constipation in palliative-care patients with incurable cancers, end-stage COPD from emphysema, heart failure, Alzheimer’s disease, ... Canadian Medicine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3823169 Wed, 04 Aug 2010 22:08:00 +0100 3823169 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3808787&cid=t_99843_133_f&fid=35452&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.graphictruth.com%2F2010%2F08%2Fignatieff-in-middle-of-word.html Michael Ignatieff is making a damn solid point. It's the sort of point a conservative leader should be making; that your government is only as good as the data it has on hand... unless of course you are governing to American Conservative standards, where "post-modernism" and wishful thinking have taken the place of facts.The allergy of the modern Western Conservative to facts in evidence is akin to a virus, and it's spread, methinks, by the like of Rupert Murdoch, who's propagandist organs are waved in our faces daily.God forbid a government should actually do some hard science to find out what it's citizens, it's small business communities, it's regions and it's future require in terms of sensible and sustainable public policy. That sounds like something that noto... Graphictruth blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3808787 Sun, 01 Aug 2010 18:19:00 +0100 3808787 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3802533&cid=t_99843_133_f&fid=35452&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.graphictruth.com%2F2010%2F07%2Fcrisis-in-rcmp-musical-run-around.html A Canadian Icon, the world around. Photo Credit: Mrs LogicThe RCMP are not just a police force. They are an iconic organization, inextricable from our collective identity as Canadians. We expect them to do far more, with far less, with more scrutiny than others and we expect them to do all this while serving as one of the great symbols of our nation. The great difference between police in other nations (and indeed, even other Canadian police forces) and the RCMP is that to some degree, people think of police in general as "them," while somehow, the RCMP are seen as "us."Astonishingly, this works. More often than not, members of the RCMP live up to this impossible standard with elan. And while everyone knows it's an impossible ideal, that could only be achieved in film and st... Graphictruth blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3802533 Thu, 29 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3802533 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3795002&cid=t_99843_133_f&fid=35452&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.graphictruth.com%2F2010%2F07%2Fdoes-steven-harper-gets-his-ideas-from.html How to annoy Glenn Beck in five minutes or lessWant to annoy Fox News' Glenn Beck in five minutes or less while simultaneously making sure your community gets its fair share of federal money? Fill out and return the 2010 U.S. Census questionnaire when it arrives in your mailbox.Few other issues seem to whip media conservatives into a frenzy of misinformation and half-baked conspiracy theories like the decennial count of Americans.You see, for the world of "conservative journalism," the census is a manifestation of everything they fear. Put yourself in their shoes: Obama's administration is hell-bent on imposing a socialist-fascist-communist-totalitarian-Marxist police state, and now he's sending us all mail! Even worse, Obama's thugs may show up at your door to get a more accurate count.Wh... Graphictruth blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3795002 Wed, 28 Jul 2010 03:17:00 +0100 3795002 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3784438&cid=t_99843_133_f&fid=35452&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.graphictruth.com%2F2010%2F07%2Fcanadian-census-flap.html Excellent article, fascinating discussion thread. Libertarians and the censusThe announced reasons for making the 2011 census long form voluntary is that it is 'intrusive' and that it is 'coercive' to make it mandatory. If this were the the position of a principled, reality-based libertarian government, then it would be a powerful argument. But it isn't.But that's a policy wonk blog. Very perceptive - indeed, perhaps too perceptive to quite grasp the Harper government's essential thinking... to be charitable about it.From the Globe and Mail:while many voters won’t notice or care about what happens to the census, “it will resonate deeply with certain swathes of voters by communicating to them that this government shares their suspicion of stats and the pointy-headed, out-of-touch academ... Graphictruth blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3784438 Fri, 23 Jul 2010 21:30:00 +0100 3784438 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3784222&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2F190454%2F New York State Goes on Goose Killing Spree: Citing overpopulation and health and safety reasons (remember Sully Sullenberger, people?), New York City Parks and Recreation officials plan to gas or euthanize 170,000 Canadian geese to reach a more manageable number of 85,000. Can we blame Canada for this one? (via The New York Times City Room Blog) Post from: BlissTree (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3784222 Fri, 23 Jul 2010 20:23:10 +0100 3784222 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3780509&cid=t_99843_133_f&fid=35452&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.graphictruth.com%2F2010%2F07%2Fit-reminds-me-of-mulroony.html The CBC reports:Industry Minister Tony Clement has dismissed growing calls for him to reverse his decision to scrap the mandatory long-form census, saying he and Prime Minister Stephen Harper are on the same page on the issue."There's not a micron of difference of opinion between myself and the prime minister on this," Clement told the CBC's Rosemary Barton in an interview on Power & Politics with Evan Solomon.During the interview from London, Clement said the government has taken a "compromise position" between privacy concerns and ensuring usable data from the next census in May 2011. Clement's comments came a day after Munir Sheikh, the head of Statistics Canada, the national statistical agency, resigned in protest over the move to scrap the mandatory survey.Meanwhile on T... Graphictruth blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3780509 Fri, 23 Jul 2010 04:33:00 +0100 3780509 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3780344&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FU1eZx5BmK6w%2F By Walter OlsonPaul Waldie at Toronto’s Globe and Mail reports on the case of Mike Reilly, who (unsuccessfully so far) has sought to write off as tax expenses the costs of campaigning for local office in a suburb of Vancouver. Reilly told a tax court that there was nothing idealistic about his quest for government office: he wanted “to earn a good salary and promote his business,” raising the visibility of his development company. Lawyers for the Canada Revenue Agency insisted that Reilly wouldn’t have gone to the trouble of running unless he had cared about at least some public issues, but he disputed that: “You know, I don’t recall being passionate about any issues other than seizing an opportunity to step in and develop a better profile for myself,”... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3780344 Thu, 22 Jul 2010 17:20:26 +0100 3780344 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3776555&cid=t_99843_133_f&fid=35452&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.graphictruth.com%2F2010%2F07%2Flies-tony-clement-and-statistics.html Canada's Conservatives have been trying to turn the Conservative Party into The Northern Tea Party, but unfortunately for them, Canadians do not tend to polorize along idiologial fracture lines as easily as do people in the US. Therefore, "Red Meat Treats," such as the Harper Government's decision to reward the Social Conservatives of the Prairie Provinces has rather backfired. (When only Alberta fails to disagree with you, in a conditional sort of way, it's not exactly a sign of broad consensus support.)The Alberta government, however, said it backs the move, but wants to see details about how the quality and availability of data will be maintained – particularly so that it can still be compared to past records.“We don't have a problem with removing threat of prose... Graphictruth blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3776555 Thu, 22 Jul 2010 00:56:00 +0100 3776555 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3758046&cid=t_99843_133_f&fid=35452&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.graphictruth.com%2F2010%2F07%2Fkiller-beaver-is-safe-for-work-but-not.html You can have your rattlesnakes and your black widow spiders, your pesky bears and the odd cougar, but we here in North America take them in stride. One rather expects predators to be dangerous predators.But when cute and tasty critters start behaving badly, it IS alarming!Killer beaver warning issued in Alberta!CALGARY — City officials in Red Deer, Alta. are warning pet owners to be on guard for an aggressive beaver that killed a dog and injured at least one other in an off-leash park.On Monday, the city's parks department received a complaint from Alberta Animal Services that a beaver in northeast Red Deer had fatally attacked a dog while it was swimming in the water, said parks superintendent Trevor Poth.Poth said it's believed the same beaver is responsible for injuring another dog th... Graphictruth blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3758046 Thu, 15 Jul 2010 17:05:00 +0100 3758046 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3746807&cid=t_99843_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F07%2F12%2Ffeeling-low-or-down-online-research-study%2F This study is conducted entirely online. It will involve you either joining an online support group or completing an expressive writing activity (minimum 5 minutes every two weeks) as well as filling in questionnaires about how you are feeling. Psych Central has no direct affiliation or connection with this study. We do not get anything if you sign up for this research (other than the hope that the researchers will prove or disprove their hypotheses). If this might be of interest to you, you can learn more about the study and enroll on their website. (Source: World of Psychology) World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3746807 Mon, 12 Jul 2010 16:39:23 +0100 3746807 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3746989&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FWwA5LUh4guc%2F Welcome back. We hope you had a refreshing weekend and feel recharged. Now, of course, the routine returns with those meetings and deadlines. As you might expect, we are brewing the mandatory cup of stimulation. Please join us as we indulge and scan the news of the world. Hope your day goes well and do stay in touch… Russia Approves Merck KGgA’s MS Pill (Reuters) Sanofi May Sell EU Research Sites To Covance (OutsourcingPharma) J&J Sued Over Pediatric OTC Med Recalls (Reuters) Another Canadian Province Cuts Generic Prices (PharmaTimes) FDA To Review First Of Three New Diet Pills (Associated Press) Sigma Pharma Wants Better Deal From Aspen (International Business Times) Abbott Warns Against Further Healthcare Cuts (Irish Examiner) Pfizer Works To Clean Contaminants From Mich... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3746989 Mon, 12 Jul 2010 12:09:04 +0100 3746989 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3743654&cid=t_99843_133_f&fid=35452&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.graphictruth.com%2F2010%2F07%2Fbreaking-news-strombo-returns.html ...from the CBC, who don't seem to understand how email news alerts work.Trouble with images? Add us to your address Book or view this online >Update Preferences     Unsubscribe     Questions/FeedbackNews AlertSpain wins World CupSpain has won the World Cup for the first time. Andres Iniesta scored late in extra time to give the Spaniards a 1-0 win over the Netherlands in Sunday's final in Johannesburg.My first reaction......I get to watch The Hour again! Oh, and Spain won the World Cup. Let me click that link to see if anything interesting actually happened... well crap. There isn't one. Here you go, fixed that for ya. (Source: Graphictruth) Graphictruth blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3743654 Sun, 11 Jul 2010 21:46:00 +0100 3743654 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3733300&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FNGX4aEjEK1k%2F Another hot day here on the Pharmalot corporate campus, where we are keeping the water bottles handy. We hope you are doing the same. After all, a flash of hot news does not require you to get overheated. Meanwhile, there is plenty of work to keep us busy. So please join us as we survey the headlines and dig in for another round of meetings and deadlines. Stay cool, everyone… Migraine Drug From Glaxo And XenoPort Fails Test (Associated Press) Aspen Lowers Its Offer For Sigma Pharma (Bloomberg News) India Expands Role As Drugmaker (New York Times) Roche Submits Breast Cancer Drug To FDA (Reuters) University Presses Invention Lawsuit Against Pfizer (Salt Lake City Tribune) Drugmakers To Boost Efforts Against Doping (Financial Times) Germany Seeks Cuts From Pharma & Insurers (Pharm... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3733300 Wed, 07 Jul 2010 12:02:21 +0100 3733300 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3727734&cid=t_99843_10_f&fid=35345&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.GIDEONonline.com%2F2010%2F07%2F05%2Ftrichinosis-in-mexico%2F In recent years, reported rates of trichinosis in Mexico have decreased to levels which are comparable to those of the United States. In fact, Canada now reports the highest rates for North America (see graph). [1,2] Chronology of trichinosis outbreaks in Mexico (primary reference available on request) [1,2] Notable outbreaks: 1979 (publication year) – An outbreak was reported among family members in Naucalpan. 1981 (publication year) – An outbreak was reported in Villanueva, Zacatecas. 1984 (publication year) – Outbreaks were reported in Zacatecas. 1985 (publication year) – An outbreak was reported in Zacatecas. 1985 – An outbreak was reported in a government office in Federal District. 1986 (publication year) – An outbreak was report... GIDEON blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3727734 Tue, 06 Jul 2010 05:24:18 +0100 3727734 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3726573&cid=t_99843_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F07%2F05%2Fdiversity-in-health-and-care-2010-vol-7-no-2%2F This article looks at the newcomers experience of social support deficiencies in their county of settlement. It examines newcomers’ perceptions of social support and it’s impact on health and use of services. A comparative support analysis tool appraises two different culture and newcomer groups and examines how their cultures influence support seeking strategies. Contact the Library for a copy of this article Filed under: Current Awareness, Journals Tagged: Canada, Immigrants, Newcomers, Social Support, Well-being (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3726573 Mon, 05 Jul 2010 09:09:10 +0100 3726573 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3718698&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fh68KkPeH3gU%2F Rise and shine, everyone. Another day is on the way. This means, of course, that meetings and deadlines beckon. Never mind that a holiday weekend is just around the corner. To cope, we are brewing the mandatory cup of stimulation, and enjoying an unexpectedly cool breeze. So please join us as we peruse the news of the world. Good luck today and catch you soon… AstraZeneca Loses Bid To Overturn Antitrust Fine (Dow Jones) Biogen Names Exelisis’ George Scangos As CEO (Bloomberg News) Recession Hurts Funding For AIDS Drug Program (New York Times) FDA Issues Latest List Of Drug With Possible Risks (Reuters) Quebec To Cut Generic Drug Prices (PharmaTimes) USPTO Denies Request To Re-Examine Plavix Patent (Dow Jones) Michigan Grows CROs (Xconomy) Calistoga Raises $40M To Fund Drug Tria... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3718698 Thu, 01 Jul 2010 11:56:22 +0100 3718698 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3718635&cid=t_99843_133_f&fid=35452&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.graphictruth.com%2F2010%2F07%2Fspeaking-of-canada-on-canada-day.html I went to check on Canada today, to see if we were doing anything at all interesting. But on the very eve of Canada day, during the Queen's Visit, and immediately subsequent to the 100th' birthday of the Canadian Navy.1 this is the top story.Yes, there is the odd murder. Yes, we are still spilling blood in Afghanistan, our own and those of Afghanis. And yes, being Canadian, part of our contribution is a rather large contingent of medical professionals. Once someone HAS been shot and is unable to shoot back - if they were ever so inclined in the first place - we think that it is utterly unremarkable for us to be concerned about their well-being. This is quite aside from the fact that we are entirely sure that our soldiers are, man for man, twice as good as any Ahmur... Graphictruth blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3718635 Thu, 01 Jul 2010 09:41:00 +0100 3718635 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3714445&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FkLpeuK6mO5o%2F The objectives of the province-wide suicide prevention strategy should include: • Enhanced mental health and well being for Ontarians. • The education of the public to de-stigmatize mental health disorders, including depression and substance abuse disorders. • Improving intervention and support for Ontarians affected by depression and substance abuse. • Improving intervention and treatment for those at risk of suicide. • Increased efforts to reduce access to lethal means of suicide. • Increased research activities in Ontario on suicide, suicidal behaviour and suicide prevention. • Improved suicide and suicidal behaviour-related surveillance systems. • Inform and educate the media into strategies when reporting deaths due to suicide to prevent ‘copy cat’ suicides from oc... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3714445 Wed, 30 Jun 2010 12:26:55 +0100 3714445 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3706999&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FzTQ3Ns30cEA%2F Hello, everyone. Nice to see you again. Hope the weekend was relaxing. Now, of course, the routine returns as meetings and deadlines beckon. What better way to get prepared than to brew a cup of stimulation and survey the news of the world? Please join us as we indulge. Meanwhile, have a great day and stay in touch… Data Show Declining R&D Productivity (Reuters) Roche Diabetes Drug Continues To Disappoint (Dow Jones) Shire Braces For FDA Study On ADHD Drugs And Heart Risks (The Guardian) Eisai To Hire 100 People For Lab In India (Bloomberg News) Non-reimbursable Rx Sales Outpaced French Market Growth (PharmaTimes) Analyst Foresees Lilly Acquiring Amylin Pharma (Benzinga) Brand-Name Drugmakers Spend Too Little On R&D In Canada (Vancouver Sun) Vietnam Wants To Increase Access... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3706999 Mon, 28 Jun 2010 11:52:50 +0100 3706999 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3695691&cid=t_99843_122_f&fid=37835&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.iqscorner.com%2F2010%2F06%2Fuse-of-wj-iii-nu-cognitive-and.html ASB #12 Use of the Woodcock-Johnson III NU Tests of Cognitive Abilities and Tests of Achievement with Canadian Populations  is now available for download at the Riverside Publishing web site (click here).As described at the Riverside web page:This bulletin examines the use of the Woodcock-Johnson III Normative Update (WJ III NU) Tests of Cognitive Abilities and Tests of Achievement  with a random sample of 310 school-age Canadian students. Results were compared with a matched sample of U.S. subjects selected from the WJ III NU standardization sample using WJ III NU norms. While some minor score differences are reported across the two samples, the study findings generally support the use of the U.S.-based WJ III NU norms with Canadian school-age populations.Conflict of interest - I am a c... Intelligent Insights on Intelligence Theories and Tests (aka IQ's Corner) blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3695691 Thu, 24 Jun 2010 15:07:00 +0100 3695691 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4259207&cid=t_99843_151_f&fid=35819&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gamblingwatchglobal.com%2Farchives%2Fns-group-wants-to-talk-with-author-of-conservative-government-rejected-study%2F Safe Bet Society wants to meet with Mark Anielski, the author of a gambling impact study rejected by a former Conservative Party Committee. Safe Bet Society says it can live with the government’s decision to not release the draft report, providing it waives contract conditions preventing it from having access to author Mark Anielski. The report looks [...] (Source: Gambling Watch Global) Gambling Watch Global blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4259207 Thu, 24 Jun 2010 02:57:51 +0100 4259207 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4259208&cid=t_99843_151_f&fid=35819&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gamblingwatchglobal.com%2Farchives%2Faccounting-for-the-real-impacts-of-gambling-in-canada%2F Mark Anielski, economist and president of his family-owned corporation Anielski Management Inc. and adjunct professor of corporate social responsibility at the University of Alberta’s School of Business in Edmonton, Alberta is not happy a Nova Scotia commissioned gambling impact report was rejected. Accounting for the real impacts of gambling in Canada The study had two objectives: to establish [...] (Source: Gambling Watch Global) Gambling Watch Global blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4259208 Thu, 24 Jun 2010 02:20:51 +0100 4259208 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4259209&cid=t_99843_151_f&fid=35819&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gamblingwatchglobal.com%2Farchives%2Fgambling%25e2%2580%2599s-real-impact-nova-scotia%2F Gambling’s real impact NS Study killed by province would help us understand how VLTs, casinos affect society, says economist who wrote report By MARK ANIELSKI | COMMENTARY 2010-06-20 IN 2007 OUR firm, Anielski Management, won the bid to conduct a study on the impact of gambling in Nova Scotia, the first of its kind in Canada using [...] (Source: Gambling Watch Global) Gambling Watch Global blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4259209 Tue, 22 Jun 2010 23:29:29 +0100 4259209 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3676899&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FZRxrE7wS55A%2F Good morning, everyone. How are you today? The weekend is just around the corner, of course, and that means looking ahead to…. what? We expect to frolic with some industry types at a soiree and, otherwise, lounge around the Pharmalot corporate campus to catch up on some reading. As for you, we hope your plans are exciting. Meanwhile, here are a few news items of the world. Have a great time and, by the way, do remember to call Dad… Sanofi-Aventis Prostate Cancer Drugs Wins FDA Approval (Reuters) UK’s NICE Approves Amgen’s Prolia (Bloomberg News) Walgreens Launches Mobile Prescription Reminders (EWeek) Malaysia Forecast To Lead Generics Growth In Asia (PharmaTimes) Pharma Urged To Develop More Orphan Drugs (Bloomberg News) Pfizer Biotech Drug Tops Placebo In Knee Pai... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3676899 Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:48:30 +0100 3676899 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3672035&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FN1LYwKfnai4%2F Does government intervention help Canadians obtain lower drug prices compared with the free market in the US? Not according to a new report from the Fraser Institute, a libertarian think tank in Calgary, which examined per-capita spending on meds by both Canadians and Americans last year. The results indicate that everyone is spending the same 1.7 percent of their income on a per-capita basis. As a percentage of after-tax income, per capita spending in Canada was 2.6 percent, compared to 2.3 percent in the US. Meanwhile, the number of scrips dispensed per person was 14.2 in Canada and 12.7 in the US. While per capita incomes are higher in the US, the study argues one main reason spending is so similar is because Canadians pay more than twice as much for generics than Americans. In absolute... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3672035 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 11:55:41 +0100 3672035 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3665944&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2F183245%2F Want to take a summer trip? Check out Ontario – you could even win a free trip there for you and your family. Post from: BlissTree (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3665944 Tue, 15 Jun 2010 20:46:28 +0100 3665944 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3648455&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fsponsored-post-escape-to-ontario-%25e2%2580%2593-the-museums-and-mazes-contest%2F WIN the Museums and Mazes Contest! Only in Ottawa can you come face-to-face with a prehistoric creature one day, then name a newborn calf in an urban farm the next. You’ll also try to find your way through a theme park’s collection of outdoor mazes, and then explore a world-class museum’s collection of never-before-seen artifacts. Enter now and yours could be the lucky family to do all this and more on a summer adventure in Canada’s capital. Enter today and your family of four could be the one to enjoy: A three-night stay at the Residence Inn by Marriott in Downtown Ottawa A $2,000 Family Travel Allowance Admission to the Canadian Museum of Nature and a gift shop welcome basket A guided tour through the Canada Science and Technology Museum, including a be... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3648455 Thu, 10 Jun 2010 15:37:26 +0100 3648455 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3621657&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2F5Tjx8UPjycw%2F By Michael F. CannonThe economic tragedy unfolding in Greece is the welfare state taken to its logical conclusion.  When groups of people use the state to live at the expense of others, the feedback loop about the costs of those transfers is attenuated — often by design.  The welfare state therefore makes commitments that it cannot honor.  By the time creditors or taxpayers say, “Enough,” the welfare state has created a clash between expectations and means that leads to unrest and hardship — a clash that never had to occur. Reuters reports that this tragedy is playing itself out in Canada, where the Medicare system is straining the budgets of taxpayers and provincial governments — even as Canada remains infamous for providing inadequate access to care.  Ac... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3621657 Tue, 01 Jun 2010 18:09:17 +0100 3621657 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4259210&cid=t_99843_151_f&fid=35819&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gamblingwatchglobal.com%2Farchives%2Fthanks-jim-coyle-thanks-toronto-star-wisdom-paid-for-by-pain%2F At first glance I nearly dismissed this article, but I like to read Jim Coyle. Michael Bryant a wiser man after tragedy Former Ontario Attorney General Michael Bryant finishes speaking to journalists at a press conference in Toronto after criminal charges against him in the death of a cyclist were withdrawn. Michael Bryant struck a grace note this [...] (Source: Gambling Watch Global) Gambling Watch Global blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4259210 Mon, 31 May 2010 22:56:56 +0100 4259210 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3549568&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FTPxQQJprgls%2F A blustery day here on the Pharmalot corporate campus, where we are using the opportunity to catch up on some reading and, of course, quaffing a cup or three of needed stimulation. Later, we hope to take Mrs. Pharmalot and the Pharmalittles to one of her favorite eateries in honor of you-know-what day. Whatever you do today, we hope it is enjoyable. Meanwhile, here are a few items to keep you fresh. And remember to say hi to your mom. Have a great time… Teva Pharmaceuticals is really just a bunch of kibbutzniks. So says Bill Marth, who runs the US arm of the Israeli drugmaker, which is moving aggressively to become one of the biggest suppliers of medicines in America. “We are aggressive and not everybody likes us. But we are doing something every day that lowers health care costs and ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3549568 Sun, 09 May 2010 15:49:54 +0100 3549568 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3538387&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F8SmLptd4QEY%2F The industry cutbacks continue. Of course, 70 positions is relatively modest compared with the thousands announced at various times. Just the same these do add up. Sanofi-Aventis, which recently eliminated another 70 jobs at its US headquarters in Bridgewater, New Jersey, (see here), cites decaying patent protection as a key reason for deteriorating business conditions and, by extention, the job cuts. In announcing the cuts, Sanofi-Aventis complains that brand-name drugmakers in Canada have “no effective right of appeal” when facing patent challenges and, as a result, generics can appear before patents expires. Using rather pointed language, the drugmaker says the “lack of government policy leadership” threatens its ability to maintain R&D investments, capital ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3538387 Wed, 05 May 2010 22:55:07 +0100 3538387 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4259211&cid=t_99843_151_f&fid=35819&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gamblingwatchglobal.com%2Farchives%2Fgaming-industrys-dark-side-carries-heavy-toll%2F Legislature’s committee on addictions warned of the high social cost it’s taking on Ontarians It’s one of your more eye-popping numbers in the avalanche of annual reports churned out at Queen’s Park. Since 1975, crows the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp., gambling has generated more than $28 billion for provincial coffers and funded countless good works. As always, [...] (Source: Gambling Watch Global) Gambling Watch Global blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4259211 Wed, 05 May 2010 02:26:38 +0100 4259211 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3530031&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FmiviPokCbNc%2F Less than a week after a stink was made that an appointee to an Alberta health advisory committee is a registered lobbying for Eli Lilly, the appointee has stepped down. “It was an inappropriate appointment,” Alberta NDP Leader Brian Mason (in photo at left) tells the Canadian Broadcasting Corp. “I think there’s a clear conflict of interest to have a lobbyist for a major pharmaceutical corporation on this committee.” Patricia Bayne, a senior manager of policy and public affairs at Lilly’s Canadian unit, was named to a nine-member advisory committee formed to sift through recommendations for an Alberta Health Act. And the committee, which was appointed by Health Minister Gene Zwozdesky, will identify policy issues the government needs to address and provide a... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3530031 Tue, 04 May 2010 12:01:32 +0100 3530031 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3526742&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fhealth-and-life-insurance-companies-invested-in-fast-food%2F2010.05.03 A new article published in the American Journal of Public Health shows that U.S., Canadian, and European insurance firms hold $1.88 billion of investments in fast food companies like Jack in the Box, McDonald’s, Burger King and Wendy’s/Arby’s Groups. Both health insurers and life insurers have substantial holdings in these companies. A person just needs to read “Fast Food Nation” or watch the documentary “Food, Inc.” to understand the negative impact of processed foods on the health of our country. The evidence is so compelling that the new health reform legislation is requiring fast food and chain restaurants to disclose calorie counts on their menus. Ironically, the new legislation will also add millions of customers to the health insurers. (mo... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3526742 Mon, 03 May 2010 14:00:00 +0100 3526742 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3519707&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FACDBPJSAVNM%2F Patricia Bayne, a senior manager of policy and public affairs at Lilly’s Canadian unit, is now part of a nine-member advisory committee formed to sift through recommendations for an Alberta Health Act. And the committee, which was appointed by Health Minister Gene Zwozdesky, will identify policy issues the government needs to address and provide advice on the new legislation. Not everyone likes this idea. “The concern is that she’s got a vested interest,” NDP Leader Brian Mason tells The Calgary Herald. “It’s a clear conflict and I don’t think the minister should have appointed her. She is clearly a senior official and a registered lobbyist for one of the biggest drug companies in the world.” Bayne, by the way, described by the government as ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3519707 Fri, 30 Apr 2010 12:52:57 +0100 3519707 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3515644&cid=t_99843_154_f&fid=35773&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.openmedicine.ca%2Fnode%2F261 . by J Mikkonen & D Raphael Foreword by Hon. Monique Bégin (Former Minister of National Health & Welfare of Canada) Published in May 2010. ISBN 978-0-9683484-1-3 – 62 pp [63p.] http://thecanadianfacts.org/The_Canadian_Facts.pdf “……The primary factors that shape the health of Canadians are not medical treatments or lifestyle choices but rather the living conditions they experience. These conditions have come to be known as the social determinants of health. This information – based on decades of research and hundreds of studies in Canada and elsewhere – is unfamiliar to most Canadians. Canadians are largely unaware that our health is shaped by how income and wealth is distributed, whether or not we are employed and if so, the working conditions we experience. Our health... Open Medicine Blog - blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3515644 Wed, 28 Apr 2010 20:11:42 +0100 3515644 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3511513&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2F176193%2F Is Canada an Abortion Opponent? NPR reports that Canada won’t contribute to international abortion funding at the G8 development summit, according to Bev Oda, Canada’s international cooperation minister. Post from: BlissTree (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3511513 Tue, 27 Apr 2010 22:03:40 +0100 3511513 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3499308&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FEyBkqr9b-FE%2F Pricing is always a touchy subject. Celgene, however, is taking this to a new level. The drugmaker is battling Canada’s Patented Medicine Prices Review Board over its insistence on getting pricing info for Thalomid. Last December, a federal court ruled the agency was entitled to the data, but Celgene appealed and the Supreme Court of Canada has agreed to hear the appeal, Bloomberg News reports. A federal appeals court ruled last December that the review board “has a legitimate interest” in the cost of the med because the price will be paid “by the ultimate consumer in Canada.” But Celgene has a unique argument - since Thalomid was sold at its New Jersey plant and shipped to Canadian docs, Celegene says the review board doesn’t have jurisdiction to demand anything. T... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3499308 Fri, 23 Apr 2010 11:45:10 +0100 3499308 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4259212&cid=t_99843_151_f&fid=35819&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gamblingwatchglobal.com%2Farchives%2F1254%2F For those of you who had the opportunity to hear Bill Clark  speak at your conference this weekend, we hope you all had a great time. Welcome to Gambling Watch Global! We have a list of resources for you which were mentioned in Mr. Clark’s presentations; the search field at the top of the site is quite [...] (Source: Gambling Watch Global) Gambling Watch Global blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4259212 Thu, 15 Apr 2010 23:38:51 +0100 4259212 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3468021&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fx5kKBxgumFg%2F Top of the morning to you. Another shiny day here on the Pharmalot corporate campus and our spirits are high. And why not? Once again, we would like to share a favorite saying of the Morning Mayor: ‘Every brand new day should be unwrapped like a precious gift.’ So go ahead and tug on the ribbon. Meanwhile, here are a few items to help you along. Have a great day, everyone… Buy Bullish Dendreon Options Says Analyst (Bloomberg News) Canada Made ‘Value Judgment’ In Dropping HIV Plant (InPharmaTechnologist) Harvard’s Avorn Hires Faculty To Test Comparative Effectiveness (Bloomberg News) Orexigen Revises Obesity Drug Data (Reuters) Sanofi-Aventis Shifts PR Chief To Global Responsibility Role (PR Week) Teva Strikes Deal For Mersana Cancer Drug (PharmaTimes) Me... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3468021 Wed, 14 Apr 2010 11:14:44 +0100 3468021 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3449018&cid=t_99843_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FRy1y-YiQKd4%2F Marian Diamond, UC-Berkeley: “People frequently do the same level of crossword puzzles to stimulate their brains year after year. They do not challenge their brains with more difficult levels of puzzles. In our research, we showed that if we challenged the rats to reach their food cups by having to climb over many obstructions, their brains increased more than those of rats who could walk unhindered to their food cups. Challenge increased brain size.” Tom Warden, Allstate: “… we see the opportunity that cognitive training provides as just the next evolution of things that we can advocate and get behind that ultimately make for a better driving experience, a safer driving experience for people. Not only for our insureds, but to help the roads be safer for everyone&#... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3449018 Thu, 08 Apr 2010 16:45:14 +0100 3449018 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3443835&cid=t_99843_122_f&fid=34755&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneuropsychological.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fupcoming-event-american-academy-of.html The annual conference of the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) takes place from the 10th to the17th of April 2010, in Toronto.Conference homepage (Source: BrainBlog) BrainBlog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3443835 Tue, 06 Apr 2010 20:25:00 +0100 3443835 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3441055&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FwHPKVX7Mulg%2F The drugmaker feared frequent visits by Canadian inspectors would slow production of its H1N1 vaccine, according to The Toronto Star, citing newly released documents. Emails between Paul Lucas, who heads Glaxo’s Canadian unit, and senior officials at Health Canada last November reveal Glaxo was frustrated over an extra visit by inspectors to its Ste-Foy, Que., facility, where it made the vaccine. In Nov. 1, 2009 email, Lucas was surprised that Health Canada planned to send inspectors the next day after having been there the previous day. “I understand the difficult position that everyone is in during this pandemic situation and the various pressures in the system,” Lucas wrote in the email sent to Morris Rosenberg, deputy minister at Health Canada. “However, I must... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3441055 Tue, 06 Apr 2010 13:03:53 +0100 3441055 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3433032&cid=t_99843_122_f&fid=34755&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneuropsychological.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fcongratulations-dr-byron-rourke.html Windsor neuropsychologist Dr. Byron Rourke to receive The Order of Canada next week.Read the article in The Windsor Star (Source: BrainBlog) BrainBlog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3433032 Fri, 02 Apr 2010 15:43:00 +0100 3433032 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3432999&cid=t_99843_113_f&fid=38236&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthcareitnews.com%2Fblog%2Fmobile-devices-online-communities-and-cost-cutting Healthcare systems around the world have been scrambling to come up with ways to leverage mobile technologies in order to reduce healthcare costs, especially those stemming from chronic disease management. Now, the Australia-based International Journal of Networking and Virtual Organisations has outlined an approach in which online communities could easily be used to offer people with chronic illnesses wireless healthcare services via mobile phones and the internet. (Source: Healthcare IT News Blog) Healthcare IT News Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3432999 Fri, 02 Apr 2010 13:16:15 +0100 3432999 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3420421&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2F3-cool-things-7%2F Three things we like, in no particular order, from Blisstree to you: Bloomin’ Plantable Seed Paper – Stationery made of 100 percent recycled paper mixed with wildflower seeds that bloom when the cards are buried after use. Surf Sister – Surf camps and lessons in Tofino, British Columbia, led by an all-female staff. Moop – Simple, beautiful handmade bags created in Pittsburgh. (And some are organic cotton!) Post from: BlissTree 3 Cool Things (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3420421 Tue, 30 Mar 2010 15:32:58 +0100 3420421 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3420714&cid=t_99843_135_f&fid=35247&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmyjourneywithaids.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F03%2F29%2Fan-easter-i-wish-i-could-do-over%2F In my second year at college I hitchhiked from Niagara to Burlington, as I would do occasionally, just a few weeks before Easter. A cousin, her husband and their young family were happy to pamper me with good food and fun. On this particular weekend they also shared their enthusiasm with me about [...] (Source: My journey with AIDS) My journey with AIDS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3420714 Mon, 29 Mar 2010 20:57:49 +0100 3420714 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3416173&cid=t_99843_122_f&fid=34755&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneuropsychological.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fin-wide-world-halifax-nova-scotia.html The Novel Tech Ethics research team at Dalhousie University, where today's Neuropsychology Abstract of the Day originated:Novel Tech Ethics websiteFrom the homepage: "The Novel Tech Ethics research team led by Françoise Baylis and based at Dalhousie University, focuses on novel technologies that promise transformation. These technologies challenge us to explore the social, political, and cultural understandings of the self, and to reexamine our ethical obligations to others, including those with whom we will not co-exist. "Currently, the Novel Tech Ethics research team has a particular focus on neural, genetic, and reproductive technologies. Grant-funded projects in these areas address the concerns of the individual, the community and the species. Academic exchanges, public discussion and... BrainBlog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3416173 Mon, 29 Mar 2010 15:01:00 +0100 3416173 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3408363&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FuwkVqhiO5Nc%2F By David RittgersFree speech isn’t exactly free in Canada, and even Glenn Greenwald and Mark Steyn agree on this point. When conservative commentator Ann Coulter (who can be uncivil, but shouldn’t be muzzled by the state for it) tried to give a speech at the University of Ottawa, she was warned by the political correctness police not to hurt anyone’s feelings: I would, however, like to inform you, or perhaps remind you, that our domestic laws, both provincial and federal, delineate freedom of expression (or “free speech”) in a manner that is somewhat different than the approach taken in the United States. I therefore encourage you to educate yourself, if need be, as to what is acceptable in Canada and to do so before your planned visit here. You will realize that Canadian... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3408363 Thu, 25 Mar 2010 19:57:49 +0100 3408363 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3408364&cid=t_99843_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2Fsrr9nu0Bzcc%2F By Christopher PrebleSecretary Gates’s new guidelines for “don’t ask, don’t tell” are consistent with the Obama administration’s plan to alter—and eventually reverse—the misguided policy. Both the guidelines and their ultimate goal deserve broad public support. In the nearly 17 years since it was enacted, DADT has impeded military effectiveness by prohibiting motivated and well-qualified individuals from serving their country. A new generation of military leaders, both officers and enlisted, has seen the harm and injustice done by this policy, and is ready for change. As this cohort advances through the ranks, and as an earlier generation that was not willing to change retires from service, we should anticipate a relatively smooth transition to a pol... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3408364 Thu, 25 Mar 2010 17:51:43 +0100 3408364 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3374333&cid=t_99843_135_f&fid=35247&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmyjourneywithaids.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F03%2F16%2Funearthing-one-of-my-early-newspaper-appearances%2F   After the cathartic experience here this morning of again recalling Craig’s struggles, in the early days of his ministry, I was remembering some of what was going on in my life 700 km away from Craig.  In the raucous days of an Ontario Human Rights Code amendment debate, giving gays and lesbians protection in the [...] (Source: My journey with AIDS) My journey with AIDS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3374333 Tue, 16 Mar 2010 20:02:00 +0100 3374333 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3370672&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fc1K953fiV_U%2F Rise and shine. Another day is under way. And so, momentarily, we will rouse our short people from their slumber. Meanwhile, we have gathered a few items for your perusal as you steel yourselves for the latest round of meetings and deadlines. AstraZeneca Will Be Selective About Branded Generics (Reuters) Canada Will Revamp Pandemic Vaccine Supplies (The Globe & Mail) Genetic Test Can Cut Warfarin Hospitalizations (Reuters) Abbott’s CEO Pay Fell On Reduced Stock Options (Associated Press) FDA Seeks More Data On MannKind’s Inhaled Insulin (Reuters) (Source: Pharmalot) Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3370672 Tue, 16 Mar 2010 12:03:12 +0100 3370672 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3370620&cid=t_99843_135_f&fid=35247&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmyjourneywithaids.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F03%2F16%2Falyson-huntly-will-receive-this-years-craig-chaplin-memorial-award%2F    Google Alyson Huntly’s name, as I did even before I knew with absolute certainty that I’d be writing this, and you’ll see what an accomplished author, educator, Diaconal Minister, grandmother (and on and on) she is!  Add Doctor, too, Alyson having received her Ph.D. in Education (Curriculum) from Queen’s University last fall. So for [...] (Source: My journey with AIDS) My journey with AIDS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3370620 Tue, 16 Mar 2010 06:49:00 +0100 3370620 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3318616&cid=t_99843_135_f&fid=35247&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmyjourneywithaids.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F02%2F28%2Fthe-moments-that-made-canada-believe-before-sunday%2F Click here for a video montage of “the moments that made Canada believe” which aired on CTV in the hours leading up to the gold medal hockey game that brought competition to an end. (Source: My journey with AIDS) My journey with AIDS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3318616 Sun, 28 Feb 2010 21:21:00 +0100 3318616 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3302636&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FG4qZxWrBJDg%2F Hello, everyone. Nice to see you again. A dreary week here at the Pharmalot corporate campus, where assorted short people are battling head colds and moving about at a sluggish pace. We urge them to persevere but, alas, they are too young for the magic cup of stimulation (coffee, for those of you whose imaginations are too vivid). Meanwhile, we now turn our attention to the day ahead, as should you. So dig in and have a good one… Roche’s Xeloda Cancer Drug Gets New EU OK (Reuters) Canada Approves Gardasil For Warts In Boys (Edmonton Journal) Basilea And Astellas Sign Licensing Deal (Reuters) FDA Warns Lilly Over Violations At Plant (FDA warning letter) FDA Warns About HIV Drug Combo Risk (Associated Press) (Source: Pharmalot) Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3302636 Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:44:03 +0100 3302636 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3262645&cid=t_99843_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F11%2Fthe-fresh-air-fund-needs-host-families%2F Imagine growing up in a city environment where you rarely see a tree, a patch of grass, or a bird. Imagine having nowhere to play a game of baseball or play catch with your dog. Imagine a place where the only thing summer brings is sweltering indoor temperatures, with no vacation or fun outside of playing in the fire-hydrant spray. For many children, this is inner-city life and the only life they know. But the Fresh Air Fund is a non-profit that has been giving free summer experiences to poor children in New York City since 1877. During that time, they’ve helped more than 1.7 million children have a very different kind of summer vacation — a chance to breath some fresh air in a different, less urban environment. In 2009, The Fresh Air Fund’s Volunteer Host Family program... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3262645 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 16:30:38 +0100 3262645 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3205130&cid=t_99843_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FUWbdmsQddao%2F The objective of this study in Canada was to examine the effects of sexual abuse on substance use patients’ entry and their recovery course in treatment. Consecutive admissions to an addictions service were assessed at intake and six-month follow-up. Upon entering treatment, 23% reported prior sexual abuse with or without physical abuse. Patients with a sexual abuse history had higher rates of psychological problems, stronger family histories of substance use disorders, and more impaired family relationships. At six months, there were no differences between patients with and without sexual abuse histories in their response to treatment, or their utilization of treatment services. Dara A. Charney; Jorge Palacios-Boix; Kathryn J. Gill, Sexual Abuse and the Outcome of Addiction Treatment.... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3205130 Sun, 24 Jan 2010 07:13:04 +0100 3205130 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3159929&cid=t_99843_133_f&fid=35452&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.graphictruth.com%2F2010%2F01%2Ftelegraph-blows-our-secret-identity.html Say it, Canada! T-Shirt by EhCanadaGet t-shirts from ZazzleThe country the world forgot - again - Telegraph[I]ts purely voluntary contribution to the cause of freedom in two world wars was perhaps the greatest of any democracy. Almost 10 per cent of Canada's entire population of seven million people served in the armed forces during the First World War, and nearly 60,000 died. The great Allied victories of 1918 were spearheaded by Canadian troops, perhaps the most capable soldiers in the entire British order of battle.Canada was repaid for its enormous sacrifice by downright neglect, its unique contribution to victory being absorbed into the popular memory as somehow or other the work of the "British". The Second World War provided a re-run. The Canadian navy began the war with a half doze... Graphictruth blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3159929 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 05:06:00 +0100 3159929 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3146170&cid=t_99843_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fhelp-i-need-an-adjective.html After starting the week with posts about Sluggish Sunday and Murky Monday, I've been searching for an adjective to describe Tuesday, today. To keep the alliteration going, it should be a "T-adjective," but all I can come up with is "turgid," which doesn't quite suit today's mood. (For definitions, see: turgid.)I'm feeling better than yesterday--less pain and more energy, and I just got a phone call with the times for my cyberknife treatments. I will have five treatments, starting on Thursday this week. I also go in for the planning for the field radiation to my right hip on Wednesday, tomorrow, so cancer has, yet again, taken over my life. However, my commitments to myself for the day are:Walk dog.Write letter re: HELOC.Go to post... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3146170 Tue, 05 Jan 2010 20:47:57 +0100 3146170 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3135667&cid=t_99843_133_f&fid=35452&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.graphictruth.com%2F2009%2F12%2Fprorogues-with-sour-grapes.html When returning to Canada, I had the hope that I would be returning to a nation governed by grownups, people promoted and selected for their competence, and those who viewed politics as being both a referendum and a sport, to be played upon the field of public opinion.Instead, I came home to the Steven Harper government, who has made more prorogues than Hunky Bill. I will certainly make a point of voting against Steven Harper at the earliest opportunity. I may even become sufficiently motivated to actually Write Letters and Make Phone Calls. I could even volunteer to stump for my various non-Conservative candidates. You see, that's how Parliamentary Democracy works.Sweet Goddess On High, I'm glad I'm back in Canada. Two years now, and I'm STILL kissing the ground. For as bad as Steven Harpe... Graphictruth blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3135667 Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:56:00 +0100 3135667 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3119068&cid=t_99843_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Faddicted-lawyers-recovery%2F Addicted lawyers can overcome barriers to recovery Robert started drinking at age 18 and was an alcoholic by the time he entered law school. “I managed to get my degree and go to work for a Wall Street firm. After that I changed jobs every two years or less. I just couldn’t hang on to one. Nobody ever mentioned drinking to me. But I’m sure that with every job I lost, drinking was the main reason.” Images of hard-headed, hard-drinking lawyers abound in popular culture. These images make a point: The professional status granted by a law degree offers no immunity from addiction. The same can be said for people in other prominent professions, such as physicians, pilots and politicians. In fact, the rate of addiction for attorneys may exceed that for the general population. In 2... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3119068 Thu, 24 Dec 2009 11:38:40 +0100 3119068 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3111588&cid=t_99843_131_f&fid=34994&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gnxp.com%2Fblog%2F2009%2F12%2Fcanada-north-american-theocracy.php In the comments Europeans often point out that nations we Americans consider very secular, such as the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, actually provide state subsidy to religious schools. Part of the issue here is that Americans have a caricature of Europeans in mind, just as Europeans often have a caricature of Americans. Though in terms of their personal beliefs most Europeans are more secular than most Americans, that does not mean that we Americans can infer from that particularities of how Europeans organize their relationship between church & state. When the American republic was founded a proactive effort was made to separate the national government from any particular church or religion (a precedent which was eventually followed by the states in the early 19th century). At ... Gene Expression blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3111588 Tue, 22 Dec 2009 08:45:00 +0100 3111588 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3108546&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FeKEEzSvEXNQ%2F Despite the defeat of two Senate amendments to health care reform that would have allowed imports from Canada and elsewhere, the Obama administration is pledging to make it possible anyway - but not as part of the legislation winding its way through Congress. The issue was raised by White House advisor David Axelrod this weekend after back-room intrigue surrounding the Senate amendment suggested the Obama administration backpedaled on a campaign pledge in order to secure the support of the pharmaceutical industry for the health care bill (see here). Drugmakers agreed to $80 billion in discounts as part of the deal, but objected to imports. “Let me be clear. The president supports…safe re-importation of drugs into this country,” he told CNN’s “State of the Uni... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3108546 Mon, 21 Dec 2009 13:21:45 +0100 3108546 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3101062&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F4ElM3c_A9fo%2F The recent Senate squabbling over whether cheaper imports from Canada and elsewhere should be allowed into the US was full of intrigue. Why, for instance, did President Barack Obama flip-flop on his oft-stated campaign remarks that imports should be allowed? Was it the $80 million deal that PhRMA cut on discounts that would help pay for health care reform legislation? Meanwhile, some questioned the sudden appearance of a letter from FDA commish Margaret Hamburg, who worried aloud that her agency couldn’t guarantee the safety of meds coming into the country. Byron Dorgan, the North Dakota Democrat who fought for the importation amendment, tells The Wall Street Journal that he thinks the White House drafted her letter. Ironically, more active pharmaceutical ingredients are coming from ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3101062 Fri, 18 Dec 2009 14:11:19 +0100 3101062 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3092933&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FCsQ9xaTVnN4%2F The vote on the amendment was 51-48 in favor, but 60 votes were needed to prevail under a special rule, the Associated Press reports. President Obama supported the measure as a senator, but his administration echoed safety concerns raised by the pharmaceutical industry, which is supporting the Democrats’ health care bill. And now that bill may have a better chance of passage. An angry Byron Dorgan, the North Dakota Democrat who introduced the measure, denounced a competing amendment that would permit imports if the FDA certifies it can be done without risks. “Do not vote for this amendment and say you’ve done something about the price of prescription drugs because constituents will know better,” Dorgan admonished his colleagues, according to the AP. The alternative ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3092933 Wed, 16 Dec 2009 01:35:02 +0100 3092933 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3083168&cid=t_99843_135_f&fid=35247&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmyjourneywithaids.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F13%2Fchristmas-church-candles-and-coca-cola-chuckles%2F As I look forward to hearing and singing the music of the Christmas season I think back to the break-neck pace we kept in the family at this time of year when I was a kid. This probably would have been the Sunday for our church’s candlelight service, or perhaps the 20th, and it was always [...] (Source: My journey with AIDS) My journey with AIDS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3083168 Sun, 13 Dec 2009 09:24:56 +0100 3083168 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079577&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F9wiFK8p7CQs%2F A deal between the White House and the pharmaceutical industry is holding up a bipartisan amendment to allow the importation of cheaper meds from abroad, according to reports. The Senate has been debating the amendment, sponsored by North Dakota’s Byron Dorgan this week, but has not voted, which is causing a delay in floor action on healthcare reform. His amendment, which would permit bulk exports of meds from countries such as Canada, enjoys broad and bipartisan support and likely has the backing of more than 60 senators, which would guarantee its adoption on the healthcare reform bill, The Hill writes. “People are walking on eggshells,” Dorgan, a Democrat, tells The New York Times. “If we pass legislation allowing people freedom to import drugs, the pharmaceutical... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079577 Fri, 11 Dec 2009 14:48:14 +0100 3079577 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3056886&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FIq5TRgT3rT0%2F The Canadian Medical Association is being criticized for agreeing to accept $78,000 in funding from Pfizer’s Canadian subsidiary to create continuing medical education programs (here is the CMA statement). Several prominent physicians argue the CMA may cross ethical lines in ways that could negatively influence treatment decisions. “Partnering with a pharmaceutical company sends the wrong message to doctors – that we don’t have to pay for our continuing education, that it’s the responsibility of others. This is unlike how any other profession deals with continuing education,” Joel Lexchin, a health-policy professor at York University in Toronto, tells us. “The sponsorship provided by Pfizer sets up a ‘gift relationship’ between Pfizer and the docto... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3056886 Thu, 03 Dec 2009 17:46:17 +0100 3056886 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3052345&cid=t_99843_136_f&fid=36032&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-breast-cancer%2Fbeating-cancer-is-a-family-affair%2F This Thanksgiving I did something a little different; I went to Canada to see family. Although they had already had their feast last month, it was really nice to have the time with them. Sister was a little under the weather and hasn’t been sleeping well lately. I think there is a lot going on with her since the hysterectomy to reduce her risk for ovarian cancer. As a BRCA carrier she has taken steps to address her risks for breast and other cancers due to the gene mutation. I have to say I worry about her. I also got to see my niece and her new baby. Nicole also tested positive for the BRCA II gene mutation and having her babies in her twenties is something we have heard can help reduce her risk. More importantly, once she has had all her children she can turn her efforts to other w... Life with Breast Cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3052345 Wed, 02 Dec 2009 21:53:39 +0100 3052345 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3056891&cid=t_99843_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2Fuj4gwIKxXkY%2F Canadian Maole Leaf The Twelve Steps may help the alcohol abuser, but what about those who have been abused? Substance abuse is an issue in a number of Canadian families. The abuse of alcohol is known as alcoholism, and can be recognized by several symptoms according to the Mayo Clinic, a large medical research and treatment group, based in several U.S. cities, including Phoenix, Ariz. Symptoms include “drinking alone or in secret, blacking out, feeling a need or compulsion to drink, becoming intentionally intoxicated to feel good or drinking to feel ‘normal’.” These symptoms, however, are just that, symptoms. They are not the cause of the alcohol dependence. “Genetics, emotional state, psychological factors and social and cultural factors” can all lead to a state of alcohol de... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3056891 Wed, 02 Dec 2009 13:53:48 +0100 3056891 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3040021&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FbRCJLCSatBw%2F Welcome to the working week. Hope your long weekend - those of you who are stateside, at least - was a good one. Ours was quiet, thanks. So, no complaints. Now, though, the routine returns. And that means deadlines, projects and meetings. To help you along, here are a few interesting items to help you ease back in. So grab a cup of stimulation and get started… Serge Weinberg May Be Next Sanofi Chairman (Reuters) Canada Extends Patient Access To Avastin (The Star) Glaxo To Provide Anti-Doping Gear To The Olympics (USA Today) Daewoong Threatens Pfizer Over Scrapped Deal (AsiaPulse) $50M Of Meds Overseas Diverted From UK Each Month (Daily Telegraph) Celgene Revlimid Sales May Trounce J&J’s Velcade (Bloomberg News) Ranbaxy Launches Herpes Drug In US (Reuters) Coffee courtesy o... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3040021 Mon, 30 Nov 2009 13:49:25 +0100 3040021 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3030092&cid=t_99843_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F7pmvUrYw12g%2F Last month, Canada’s Health Committee appointed Bernard Prigent, Pfizer Canada’s vp and medical director, to the Governing Council of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, which sets policy, directions, and strategies for publicly funded health research. At the time, CIHR president Alain Beaudet said he hopes to create closer ties with industry to ensure involvement and investment. But the move has not gone over well with some Canadians, who fear the appointment creates ethical quandaries. And so a petition is being circulated in hopes of convincing the committee, which meets on Monday, Nov. 30, to change its collective mind and rescind the appointment. Two reasons are cited for drawing up the the petition: 1 - Pfizer has a “well-documented history of transgressions... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3030092 Wed, 25 Nov 2009 21:55:06 +0100 3030092