A device to give diabetics freedom
Israel’s Insuline has developed InsuPad - a device that warms the body after diabetics inject themselves - even after meals. The pad helps less insulin absorb much quicker and reduces hypoglycemic incidents. J&J Lifescan has just signed an agreement to market InsuPad in Germany.
A wireless device for heart failure patients
Israel’s Leviticus Cardio is developing a wireless device that delivers energy to operate Left Ventricle Assist Devices (LVADs). LVADs keep heart failure patients alive for up to seven years until they can have a heart transplant. Ex US vice-President Dick Cheney was a LVAD user.
Gene mutation discovery
Researchers at Sheba Medical Center and Weizmann Institute together with Duke University have identified genes ASNS and TECPR2 responsible for two serious neurological disorders in children. The discovery will identify carriers and prevent such severe genetic diseases from being passed down.
Israeli doctors remove hatpin from Arab girl’s throat
The 16-year-old from Baka al-Gharbiya was adjusting her headscarf and had put the 3.5cm hatpin in her mouth temporarily. Unfortunately, something made her laugh and she swallowed the pin. Doctors at Hadera hospital pulled the pin out of her vocal cords. Ouch!
Teva launches generic treatment for kidney disease
Teva is the first company to produce generic Zemplar (paricalcitol) tablets in the US. The treatment is for patients with Stage 3 or Stage 4 chronic kidney disease and in Stage 5 patients on dialysis.
Keep taking the tablets
Israel’s MediSafe has just raised $1million to expand its medication management solutions. MediSafe’s smartphone app keeps track of medication taken and sends alerts to relatives or monitoring organizations if any treatment is missed.
Israel’s contribution to World Vision
(Thanks to Israel21c) October 10th was “World Sight Day”. Here are 10 products from the “Light to the Nations” that will transform the field of vision. They include implants, keyboards, a smartphone for the blind, electronic spectacles and cameras.
Brain cancer breakthrough
The media is reporting the discovery by Dr Regina Golan-Gerstl, of Jerusalem’s Hadassah Medical School, of hnRNP A2/B1. The protein gene is key to the most common and aggressive adult brain cancer - glioblastoma. Great news, as reported it in my 14th Aug 2011 newsletter.
Laquinimod reduces brain damage in MS patients
In Phase III trials, Israel’s Teva reported that its Laquinimod oral treatment for multiple sclerosis reduced neuro-degeneration, slowing the progression of locomotor disability in multiple sclerosis patients. Laquinimod might also help treat Crohn's disease, lupus nephritis, Huntington’s disease and Alzheimer’s.
Americans look to Israel for Parkinson’s treatment
1.5 million Americans, including many Jews, suffer from Parkinson’s disease. The Pittsburgh Jewish Chronicle highlights some of the many Israeli treatments.