Better Living Through Well Being

Hidden in plain sight but invisible for decades to scientists using old methods of pathologic analysis, a new organ has been discovered in the human body. This organ termed "the interstitium" consists of an interstitial space in the submucosa with fluid-filled compartments defined by a complex lattice of thick collagen bundles. This forms an interactive network connecting the skin and lining the gut, lungs, bladder, muscles, fascia, arteries, veins, and nearly every major organ. These layers had been long thought to be just dense connective tissues. This was because the anatomical structure of the organ couldn't be seen by traditional fixing methods for medical slides that drain away fluid from the tissue sample in the process, causing the protective protein meshwork of the interstitium to pancake like floors in a collapsed building. Scientific Reports published the study in March that describes the process of discovering the interstitium using advanced "in vivo" microscopy technology.

This discovery may be one of the most significant medical findings of our time and may shed light on causes and treatments for cancer and inflammatory conditions and how they spread through the body. The team that discovered the interstitium observed how its components act as shock absorbers to protect the body tissues from damage. The study of the organ was made possible with a procedure called freezing biopsy and researchers found that the layers drain into the lymphatic system, which transports lymphatic fluid and is involved in the body's immune system response. Researchers also found that cancer cells from tumors can make their way through the layers and into the lymphatic system and lead to the spread of cancer through the body.

Researchers say the findings of their study of the interstitium call for "reconsideration of many of the normal functional activities of different organs and of disordered fluid dynamics in the setting of disease, including fibrosis and metastasis," and the new organ needs to be recognized as "a potential conduit for movement of injurious agents, profibrogenic signaling molecules, and tumor cells."

It is hoped the findings of this research will prompt further study in ways of using the interstitium and its fluids to detect early stages of cancer. "This finding has potential to drive dramatic advances in medicine, including the possibility that the direct sampling of interstitial fluid may become a powerful diagnostic tool," said Dr. Theise, a lead partner in the research.

Other articles of interest in this Spring 2018 TMIS eNewsletter:

* Shoppers vow to protect one of nature's most beneficial insects -- the ladybug -- this Earth Day.

* Agricultural partners launch the "No Taste for Waste" campaign, an initiative for consumers to reduce household food waste and also learn how farmers work to minimize food loss in their fields.

* Water restoration projects across America through the Nature Conservancy's freshwater program receive major corporate support.

* Useful steps for homeowners to take to maximize efficiency of water use and reduce the monthly bill.

* A look at the growing consumption of renewable energy alternatives and how the economy is benefitting.

* Alzheimer patient experiences astounding success from treatment with stem cell therapy.

* New wildlife veterinarian training program created by Smithsonian collaborators to save animals' lives around the world.

* Grocery shopping trends for using new platforms and shifts in marketplaces require retailers to develop comprehensive strategies.

I am grateful to be in a collaborative business with many talented and skilled professionals. Additional feedback and recommendations for our products and services at TM Information Services are always welcome.

- Mary Michele McLaughlin

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Researchers Find New "Organ" Missed by Gold Standard Methods for Visualizing Anatomy and Disease
New York, New York

Researchers have identified a previously unknown feature of human anatomy with implications for the function of all organs, most tissues and the mechanisms of most major diseases. Published March 27 in Scientific Reports, a new study co-led by an NYU School of Medicine pathologist reveals that layers of the body long thought to be dense, connective tissues -- below the skin's surface, lining the digestive tract, lungs and urinary systems, and surrounding arteries, veins, and the fascia between muscles -- are instead interconnected, fluid-filled compartments. This series of spaces, supported by a meshwork of strong (collagen) and flexible (elastin) connective tissue proteins, may act like shock absorbers that keep tissues from tearing as organs, muscles, and vessels squeeze, pump, and pulse as part of daily function.

Importantly, the finding that this layer is a highway of moving fluid may explain why cancer that invades it becomes much more likely to spread. Draining into the lymphatic system, the newfound network is the source of lymph, the fluid vital to the functioning of immune cells that generate inflammation. Furthermore, the cells that reside in the space, and collagen bundles they line, change with age, and may contribute to the wrinkling of skin, the stiffening of limbs, and the progression of fibrotic, sclerotic and inflammatory diseases. The field has long known that more than half the fluid in the body resides within cells, and about a seventh inside the heart, blood vessels, lymph nodes, and lymph vessels. The remaining fluid is "interstitial," and the current study is the first to define the interstitium as an organ in its own right, and as one of the largest of the body, say the authors.
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Nationwide Celebrations and Tree Planting Opportunities Announced for Arbor Day, America's Oldest Environmental Holiday
Lincoln, Nebraska

April 27, 2018 marks the 146th celebration of Arbor Day. A holiday established in 1872 in Nebraska City to inspire people to plant trees, it became a national holiday in 1972. To help people across the country get more easily involved in celebrating the country's first environmental holiday, the Arbor Day Foundation has launched celebratearborday.com. People can visit the website to see what's going on in their local communities as well as to get information on how to plant trees and plan their own Arbor Day celebrations.

"Arbor Day is that one day every year reminding us to think about all that trees do for us -- a day for reflection and for action," said Dan Lambe, president, Arbor Day Foundation. "On April 27, communities across the country will to come together to plant, nurture and celebrate trees. We encourage everyone to set differences aside, grab a shovel and make a positive impact in your community by planting a tree."

Not only can visitors learn about celebrations in their area, people across the United States can sign a pledge signifying their commitment to planting a tree during the month of April as well as purchase a tree to be planted in their yard or a national forest. Visitors to celebratearborday.com can watch the number of trees planted increase on the website's "Treemometer." This commitment to plant 1 million trees by 2025 with the Arbor Day Foundation is part of the One Earth program.
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High Blood Pressure and High Cholesterol Associated with Noisy Jobs
Atlanta, Georgia

High blood pressure and high cholesterol are more common among workers exposed to loud noise at work according to a CDC study published in the American Journal of Industrial Medicine. Researchers at CDC's National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) also found that a quarter of U.S. workers – an estimated 41 million people -- reported a history of noise exposure at work. "

Reducing workplace noise levels is critical not just for hearing loss prevention – it may also impact blood pressure and cholesterol," said NIOSH Director John Howard, M.D. "Worksite health and wellness programs that include screenings for high blood pressure and cholesterol should also target noise-exposed workers." High blood pressure and high LDL cholesterol are key risk factors for heart disease, the leading cause of death for both men and women. Loud noise is one of the most common workplace hazards in the United States affecting about 22 million workers each year.

NIOSH researchers analyzed data from the 2014 National Health Interview Survey to estimate the prevalence of occupational noise exposure, hearing difficulty and heart conditions within U.S. industries and occupations. They also looked at the association between workplace noise exposure and heart disease. The analysis showed:
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Natural Grocers customers pledge to protect the ladybug this Earth Day
Denver, Colorado

Throughout the month of April, and in celebration of Earth Day on April 22, Natural Grocers will invite the community to pledge to protect one of nature's beneficial insects – the ladybug. Shoppers will vow to never use chemicals that harm ladybugs or other beneficial insects and pledge to support 100 percent organic produce. Customers will also learn how to make a natural, do-it-yourself weed killer at a free, educational class hosted by Natural Grocers.

"We are dedicated to protecting the environment -- because the health of the environment is directly linked to the health of the economy, and the health of all people," said Heather Isely, Natural Grocers' Executive Vice President. "This Earth Day, Natural Grocers selected the ladybug as its mascot because it symbolizes the importance beneficial insects play in the overall health of the economy and environment."

It's estimated that insects, like the ladybug, contribute at least $57 billion to the U.S. economy every year by controlling pests, pollinating crops, as part of the food web and processing waste. In addition, beneficial insects prevent $18.77 billion in damages to U.S. crops every year, supporting a healthy economy, a healthy environment and human health – the triple bottom line.
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Valent Group Helps Launch "No Taste for Waste" Campaign
Washington, DC

The Valent Group of Companies is partnering with the CropLife Foundation and Meredith Agrimedia to launch the "No Taste for Waste" campaign, an initiative to reduce food waste and loss. The campaign, which includes an interactive website, special edition "bookazine" and social media messages, is a resource for consumers interested in reducing household food waste, while educating the public on how farmers take steps to fight food loss in their fields.

The Valent Group and other partners, including Land O'Lakes SUSTAIN, the American Farm Bureau Federation and FLM Harvest, collaborated with the CropLife Foundation and Meredith Agrimedia to launch the "No Taste for Waste" campaign. The campaign connects consumers to real farmers, like Washington state apple growers Mike and April Clayton, who work hard to operate in a sustainable manner and act as good stewards of the land, while reducing food waste.

"It's an honor to be able to partner with the CropLife Foundation. Land O'Lakes, and the American Farm Bureau Federation in support of this important campaign," said Andy Lee, President and CEO of the Valent Group of Companies. "We're hoping that by understanding how much the ag community does to minimize food waste, consumers will be encouraged to extend those efforts into their own pantries and kitchens."
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Public Invited to Vote For Water Restoration Projects Across America
Kennebunk, Maine

America's waterways stretch for millions of miles, providing drinking water, irrigation, electricity, food, transport and recreation for people and critical habitat and nutrients for wildlife. These water supplies, however, are quickly being depleted, threatening the people and nature that depend on them for support. Fortunately, there are countless ways we can inspire change and protect our nation's water resources together.

Tom's of Maine, the leading maker of natural personal care products, is taking action to make a positive impact on future generations, and will donate $1,000,000 in 2018 to The Nature Conservancy to help turn the tide toward better protecting, preserving and restoring our nation's freshwater. Just in time for Earth Month, the public can help by voting for their favorite of four different water-related protection efforts around the United States to direct project funding. Vote today for your favorite water protection project at https://www.tomsofmaine.com/turnthetide.

"It's easy to overlook the amount of water we use on a daily basis. At Tom's of Maine, we want to be a part of the solution, and help show our kids that together we can have an impact at home, at work and as a community," said Rob Robinson, brand and goodness leader at Tom's of Maine. "Teaming up with The Nature Conservancy will help us make a difference in support of waterways around the nation."

The top three vote-getting projects will receive $25,000, $15,000 and $10,000 in funding, respectively, in addition to a guaranteed base level of support for each. Projects include:
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Rain Bird Suggests These Steps for a Beautiful Yard, While Conserving Water
Azusz, California

Many states and municipalities across the country have restrictions on when, and for how long, yards and shrubs can be watered. Many homeowners are looking for ways to maximize the efficiency of the water they use, and to reduce their monthly water bill. In recognition of World Water Day, Rain Bird, a leading supplier of irrigation products for residential, commercial, golf, and agricultural applications, offers these steps to help you use water intelligently:

1) Know Your Yard
* Understand Your Soil. The soil type in your yard will greatly affect your watering schedule and influence the type of sprinkler you choose. A simple jar test will tell you what type of soil you have.
* Know Your Water Pressure. Water pressures vary greatly. If you have high pressure, make sure you install products equipped with pressure regulating devices, which can save you up to one gallon per minute per sprinkler.

2) Design Your System With Efficiency In Mind
* Select A Landscape Design That Minimizes Water Use. Use drought-tolerant plants when possible. Reserve your use of grass for areas with high value, visual prominence or frequent physical use.
* Divide Your Yard Into Zones. Divide your yard into separate zones so groundcover, shrubs and trees can be watered separately and less frequently.
* Use A Weather Adjusting Smart Clock. This automatically adjusts your watering schedule to take into account both the seasons and current weather conditions, optimally watering plants year round without the need to constantly reprogram.
* Use a rain sensor to automatically shut off your sprinkler system when it rains.
More...
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The Future of Sustainable Energy and its Economic Impact
Dallas, Texas

Renewable and reusable energies make up a small percentage of the nation's energy consumption, but this market is growing and attracting much more than conscious consumers. Acting as an untapped resource across most industries, the opportunity presented with energy production sources such as wind, cold water and solar power have the potential to save businesses money and create new jobs. Even in today's marketplace that has just begun to scratch the surface in utilizing energy alternatives, consumers nationwide are taking advantage of the benefits they have access to. This growing demand for energy saving options can be seen through the cars we drive, homes we live in and companies we work at.

As a new direction and generation that will require sustainability to have future success gains momentum, the early adapters are already catching on. "Incorporating energy efficiency into all of our rental communities has helped our properties and residents save money and live better. As of 2017 all WRP properties include energy star rated appliances and solar powered technologies that help us do our part in maintaining a cleaner living environment and lifestyle for our residents and the surrounding communities," shares Marcus Hiles, entrepreneur and CEO of Western Rim Properties.

With only a handful of states across the nation helping to build the capacity and ultimately future of the renewable energy industry, two of the top leaders are Texas and California. Looking at the lone star state which generated 18% of its energy through sustainable sources in 2017, wind and solar power are the primary drivers in the area's alternative energy solutions. Thanks to a $7 billion investment in 2007, Texas now owns nearly a quarter of the nation's installed generating capacity for wind energy and has become the national leader in this renewable power source.
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Miraculous Results Dementia/Alzheimer's Treatment with Stem Cell Therapy
Noida, India

"I am thankful to you, at least you guys are trying to put an end to this disease," said Mr. Jagjit Singh, to the entire team of Advancells. Mr. Jagjit Singh is a vibrant young professional, who experienced the harsh realities of Dementia and loss of mobility in a very hard way. More than 10 years ago, his father was diagnosed with a neurodegenerative condition called Dementia. It was a game changer for the entire family that 60 years old humorous and goofy person like Mr. Jagtej Singh suddenly stopped playing with his grandchildren, lost his patience and is in need of constant support and care.

It was truly a blessed day when he began searching for possible treatment options for his father's condition and reached Advancells. Since he wants his father to be fairly independent for the road ahead; he made the decision to trust Advancells. In his preliminary consultation with medical experts, he could agree that his dad began to show signs of memory loss about 10 years ago at the age of 60 years. Initially, there were subtle signs, like repeated questions, confusion, irritation, and memory loss; but in later days, he slowly lost his ability to talk full sentences and let his needs be known.

What had happened to Mr. Jagtej Singh? The human brain is noted to be the most powerful of all our possessions. You will completely agree with the statement, once you will know some of the truly stupendous facts of our brain's functional capacity. It needs the fifth fraction of all the energy generated by our body, even in its resting stage. You can compare it with a 20-watt bulb, which is continuously glowing! Astonishingly, this small organ weighing just 3 lb contains around 12 trillion brain cells that are approximately two and a half times the people on this planet. Such a dense forest of about 100 billion networking neurons with 1500 branches; making a total of about 1 trillion connections can process around 30 billion bits of information each second!

As the research puts it, "Not even the universe with its all countless billions of galaxies represents greater complexities than a single human brain." However, just like a lively ecosystem slowly begins to go silent in case of drought; dense networking of the brain starts to tangle, reducing the electrical activity and causing the brain cells to shrivel and die in case of a neurodegenerative disorder, Dementia or Alzheimer.
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Morris Animal Foundation & Smithsonian Collaborate on Wildlife Veterinarian Training Program
Denver, Colorado

To help cultivate the finest wildlife veterinarians of tomorrow, Morris Animal Foundation and the Smithsonian Global Health Program (SGHP) have collaborated to establish the Morris Animal Foundation and Dennis and Connie Keller Director of Training at SGHP. The position is responsible for national and international training programs in wildlife veterinary medicine. Morris Animal Foundation will dedicate $700,000 over seven years to fund the position.

"This is a truly exciting opportunity and one we are proud to see come to fruition," said Tiffany Grunert, Acting President and CEO of Morris Animal Foundation. "This wildlife health training program will leverage our funding and the Smithsonian's expertise to multiply our collective impact to save animal lives around the world."

Dr. Lindsey Shields has been named as the first Morris Animal Foundation and Dennis and Connie Keller Director of Training. She is an epidemiologist and board-certified preventive medicine veterinarian with substantial experience in international public health and capacity building. In her new role, Shields will supervise four to eight trainees every year, including veterinary students and veterinarians, from countries around the world as well as in the United States. Trainees will conduct research focused on a wildlife health issue based on the program's priorities and the trainee's background. Trainees will work on projects in both Africa and Asia. Trainees also will participate as teachers in workshops and in the individual training of other wildlife researchers during their program.

"I believe that building capacity in current and future wildlife veterinarians and conservationists is the best way to safeguard biodiversity," said Shields. "This opportunity will bring global impact to our training programs."
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New research released about the shifts and future of grocery shopping
Brea, California

A leader in precision retail activation for valued partners in the CPG, healthcare and retail grocery environment has released research that explores the growing impact e-commerce is having on the shopper journey in certain categories of grocery purchases. SKUlocal found that shoppers over the past five years have seamlessly integrated digital channels as part of their "path to purchase," and this shift is changing the way different categories are now consumed.

Thanks largely to retailers like Amazon, general merchandise was the first to migrate online, and beauty care wasn't far behind. The perceived quality gap between branded and private label products has also shifted. Click here to see the research, which is titled, "The Convenience Dynamic: How Digital Shopping Is Shifting the Grocery Ecosystem." Here are a few highlights:
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