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New Hair Loss Treatments
Hair loss has been an issue for centuries, but scientific ways to treat hair loss began to take off in the past 60 or so years. Ointments, transplants, formulations, chemicals, snake oils, and many other products have emerged in the hair loss treatment markets, some of which work well, others which do not. When choosing a hair regrowth treatment, it is important to understand whether a product or method is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), whether it will treat your specific situation, and whether the treatment has any side effects that could be potentially hazardous to your overall physical or emotional health.
Hair follicles are self-regenerating; they produce strands of hair, shed it, and reproduce new hair constantly. However, at some point, the hair follicle stops producing new hair, or produces new hair at a slower rate than the hair is shed, causing hair loss and sometimes baldness. It is this concept that must be understood when creating new ways to treat hair loss. All hair loss treatments aim to assist (or in some cases, replace) hair follicles in producing new hair, whether naturally or synthetically.
As far as hair treatments from a lab go, two main drugs have emerged as the leaders in treating hair loss. Minoxidil slows hair loss and promotes hair growth when used correctly. It helps to maintain the hair you have, and is most effective when used in the earlier stages of hair loss, as opposed to when you are bald or close to it. The other drug commonly used is Propecia. Unlike Minoxidil, which has proven effective for both men and women, Propecia only works on men, because it works to stop male hormones (testosterone) from forming DHT, which shortens the hair growth phase. Several studies have revealed that Propecia produces more side effects than Minoxidil, including loss of sex drive, and several other side effects. (Avacor® hair loss treatment products use Minoxidil and are specifically formulated for men and women).
Men looking to treat hair loss can use one or both of these drugs. However, neither will be effective unless used correctly, as directed by the product.
Surgeries are another way people treat hair loss, and are an $800 Million industry in the U.S. alone, and a $2 Billion industry worldwide, according to the Wall Street Journal. Hair transplants have developed significantly over the last several decades. In the 1980s, large grafts of hair follicles were removed from one area of the head and inserted onto the area experiencing hair loss. The procedure was often painful and the results were mixed; in some cases, hair transplants were quite successful, but not for everyone. Results took a long time to look natural as well. Scalp reduction is another out of date procedure that involved several small incisions on the scalp, which left visible scars.
Nowadays, hair transplant surgery is less invasive than before, requiring much smaller grafts of just one to four hairs. These smaller grafts are less painful and invasive, and have a more natural look since the areas are smaller and more close together.
The Next Evolution: Hair Follicle Regeneration
The new wave of hair loss treatment is hair follicle regeneration. This is essentially a jump start for hair follicles that have stopped or slowed new hair production. Several labs and companies are working on this process, and have seen success manipulating hair follicle stem cells in a test tube. Some companies are experimenting with removing human hair follicles and growing them in a lab. The idea is that if the hair follicles can be re-stimulated using science, then reinserted onto a person's head, the hair follicles will begin working properly again, growing hair naturally and combating hair loss. This takes hair transplant procedures to the next level by expanding the number of new hair follicles you receive from a hair transplant.
Some people have referred to this process as "hair cloning," but this is not an entirely accurate description, since the process does not create a new organism. Rather, it is a duplication effort that puts follicles that have the potential to produce new hair into implants that stimulate new growth. M.D. George Cotsarelis predicts this new transplant process is between 5 and 10 years from becoming publicly available.
New Genes
Another recent development in the hair loss treatment world is a new gene called "Sonic hedgehog." This gene essentially is able to convert hair in the resting stage into new hair growth. Scientists are still in the early stages of experimenting with this gene (and others) to try to control hair follicle size and the growth rate for new hair. If successful, it could become a powerful and popular new way to treat hair loss. Similar experiments are occurring as you read this article in labs all over the world. Using genetics to treat hair loss is similar to how scientists are using genetics to treat disease and other human conditions. These processes and procedures are constantly being updated, and like many other areas of treatment, scientists are paving the way toward new and improved hair loss remedies.
Vitamin D
According to the Wall Street Journal, vitamin D is crucial to hair regrowth. Thus, many efforts to develop new hair loss treatments focus around adding more vitamin D into a person's diet. In addition to stimulating hair growth, vitamin D also has other benefits for the body, such as improving bone growth. However, too much vitamin D can also cause kidney issues or general weakness, so take care not to overdo it. In many cases, simply changing your diet can actually help with hair loss. Adding the proper amount of vitamin D into your diet from fatty fish and sunlight can help you treat hair loss naturally.
FDA Approved Hair Products
We've all seen the term "FDA Approved." But, do you know what it means?
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is a federal government agency in charge of keeping the American public safe by regulating food, drugs, and medical devices. When a product or item is FDA-Approved, it has been rigorously tested and thoroughly inspected, and found to be both effective and completely safe for people to use or consume.
So, how does this relate to your hair?
Well, if you are experiencing hair loss, interested in hair restoration, or just curious about the process, you will undoubtedly encounter a wide variety of products to help stimulate hair growth. Many of these products are not FDA-Approved, which should be an automatic red flag. In other words, if a product is advertised to treat a medical condition, such as hair loss, but it does not indicate anywhere that it is FDA-Approved, then you should avoid using that product. You may be taking a major health risk using a product that is not FDA-Approved to treat any medical condition.
Avacor Physician's Formulation® is an FDA-Approved hair restoration product clinically proven to revitalize hair follicles and help you grow back your very own hair. The FDA has carefully tested and inspected how the product is manufactured, what ingredients are used, how much of each ingredient is used, how the product is stored and packaged, and how the product is administered. In other words, all aspects of Avacor Physician's Formulation production, including each ingredient, the bottling process, and the recommended dosage, have been deemed completely safe and effective for consumers to use for the treatment of hair loss, according to the FDA.
Unfortunately, some consumers continue to be tricked into buying "snake oil" products, or hair loss treatments not approved by the FDA. These products can cause unhealthy and unwanted side effects, such as acne, scalp hair loss, menstrual irregularities in women, irritability, and aggression, according to Dr. Ray Sahelian. The FDA also indicates other side effects of hair growth products that are not FDA-Approved include low blood pressure, heart palpitations and other cardiac symptoms, hair discoloration, sensitivity to sunburn, itching, rash, irritation, or stinging skin. "Snake oil" products are a waste of time and money. They also taint consumer's opinions of the entire industry, making consumers skeptical of all hair loss products, including the legitimate ones. Additionally, they can add more emotional stress in your life when you buy the product and it doesn't work, and/or causes health problems.
The good news is that the FDA is starting to crack down more on snake oil salesmen and punishing people with fines and/or jail time for trying to sell hair regrowth products to consumers that are not FDA-Approved. However, consumers still need to be aware of the product they are buying.
The active ingredient found in Avacor Physician's Formulation is Minoxidil. Currently, the FDA has approved Minoxidil in two different strengths: 5% for men and 2% for women. The Avacor product has Minoxidil levels that adhere to these requirements. If the levels were anything different than the 2% and 5% required by the FDA, the product could not be advertised as FDA-Approved, and could be recalled by the FDA at anytime.
In January of 2012, the FDA issued a press release announcing the recall of some hair regrowth products because they were unapproved new drugs, and had high levels of Minoxidil that could cause health hazards to consumers. These products had Minoxidil levels between 10 and 15%. If you are currently using a hair regrowth product, be sure to check the Minoxidil level, and consider switching to Avacor's FDA-Approved Physician's Formulation, as well as other hair care products: the Avacor® All Natural Nutricap containing the active ingredient Saw Palmetto, which is widely thought to be a DHT inhibitor; Boost! by Avacor®, which is specially formulated to thicken hair from the very first application; and our Scalp Detoxifying Shampoo, which removes dirt and oil from the scalp, ensuring effective delivery of the Minoxidil to the scalp when applied after using the shampoo. Rest assured that all our products are manufactured in facilities that meet the highest safety and quality standards today. Furthermore, all our products are safe to use, and have been formulated to either help you grow a natural, full, healthy head of hair, or to maintain healthy, clean, and stylish hair.
Minoxidil and Pregnancy: What You Should Know
We were recently asked a question about whether women who are experiencing hair loss can use minoxidil when they are pregnant or breast-feeding.
When it comes to medications and your child, don't take any chances. It is very important to check with your doctor before using any medications while pregnant or breast-feeding.
First, we should mention that the FDA has not approved minoxidil for any indications other than pattern hair loss. According to a regulatory compliance guidance document from the FDA,1 minoxidil should not be used for hair loss associated with child birth. ("Do not use if… hair loss is associated with childbirth.")
Information from both the FDA and the National Institutes of Health recommend speaking with a doctor or health professional before using minoxidil if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
The FDA guidance document mentioned above states: "if pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use." The NIH's MedlinePlus website2 provides a similar recommendation: "Before using minoxidil… tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while using minoxidil, call your doctor."
While we are not aware of any large, systematic studies of minoxidil use during pregnancy, a group of physicians from the Università di Firenze in Italy reported a case of a woman who used 2% topical minoxidil during her pregnancy and whose fetus developed abnormally.3 While no causal effect was established, the authors conclude: "Further knowledge on minoxidil-induced fetal toxicity would be beneficial before allowing its use in pregnant women."
Remember - if you are pregnant or breast-feeding, talk to your doctor before using any products that contain minoxidil. And please keep the questions coming!
1. FDA Guidance: "Example Drug Facts Label for Minoxidil Topical Solution 2% for Men and Women". Link to FDA website
2. MedlinePlus drug information: Minoxidil Topical. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a689003.html
3. Smorlesi C, Caldarella A, Caramelli L, Di Lollo S, Moroni F. Topically applied minoxidil may cause fetal malformation: a case report. Birth Defects Res A Clin Mol Teratol. 2003 Dec;67(12):997-1001. Link to PubMed
Improving the Outcome of Hair Transplantation with Minoxidil
During the second half of the 20th century, advances in surgical techniques have led to significant improvements in the cosmetic appearance of hair transplants. Still, it often takes several months for grafted follicles to begin growing new hair and some patients require multiple surgeries to reach their desired cosmetic outcome.
Over the last 20 years a growing number of physicians have begun suggesting the use of minoxidil to improve the results of these procedures.
Minoxidil as an Adjunct to Hair Transplantation
A roundtable group of 11 international hair transplant physicians in 2002 reached a consensus that using hair regrowth medications like minoxidil after surgery "can increase hair density, speed regrowth in transplanted follicles, and complement the surgical result by slowing down or stopping further hair loss."1
They also suggested that using minoxidil prior to surgery could make transplanting easier by enlarging miniaturized suboptimal follicles, although most recommended suspending treatment for a few days before and one to three weeks after the procedure to reduce the risk of bleeding and allow graft sites to heal.
These observations were based on the physicians' own experiences with patients, but are also supported by at least three published clinical studies.
Published Studies
A pilot study in 1987 suggested that some patients who used minoxidil (3% topical solution) after hair transplant surgery demonstrated hair growth within several weeks (rather than the usual time of several months), without experiencing the shedding that occurred in untreated patients in the weeks following transplantation.2
Another study, in which patients applied 2% topical minoxidil solution to the balding area of their scalp for four weeks before surgery, discontinued use for 3 weeks after surgery, then resumed treatment for an additional 3 months, concluded that "minoxidil seems to be an adjunct for a better evolution of grafts after hair transplantation surgery."3
Finally, a double-blind trial involving 12 patients with male pattern baldness found that using 2% minoxidil for 6 weeks before and 17 weeks after surgery significantly decreased the shedding of grafted hair in the weeks after surgery.4
A review in 2008 concluded that minoxidil is "highly effective at helping to maintain existing hair, thereby creating more perceived density from the procedure" and that continuing treatment "will often help increase the density of transplanted hair, slow down the rate of loss of existing hair, and increase the caliber of existing and transplanted hair." 5
Hair transplantation can be a very effective method for dealing with hair loss resulting from androgenetic alopecia, but it carries a hefty price tag. Using current hair transplantation methods, several thousand grafts can be required to cover the affected areas, with costs ranging from $3-12 per graft.
After investing so much time and money, it would make a lot of sense to spend a little bit of time each day using minoxidil to improve the results of your hair transplant and protect your investment for the future. At Avacor®, we provide hair loss treatments to help you regrow hair. Visit our product page to learn more.
1. Avram MR, Cole JP, Gandelman M, Haber R, Knudsen R, Leavitt MT, Leonard RT Jr, Puig CJ, Rose PT, Vogel JE, Ziering CL; Roundtable Consensus Meeting of The 9th Annual Meeting of The International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery. The potential role of minoxidil in the hair transplantation setting. Dermatol Surg. 2002 Oct;28(10):894-900; discussion 900. Link to PubMed
2. Kassimir JJ. Use of topical minoxidil as a possible adjunct to hair transplant surgery. A pilot study. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1987 Mar;16(3 Pt 2):685-7. Link to PubMed
3. Bouhanna P. Topical minoxidil used before and after hair transplantation. J Dermatol Surg Oncol. 1989 Jan;15(1):50-3. Link to PubMed
4. Roenigk HH, Berman MD. Topical 2% minoxidil with hair transplantation. Face. 1993;4:213-6.
5. Avram MR, Rogers NE. Hair transplantation for men. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2008 Sep;10(3):154-60. Link to PubMed
6. Sandoval A. Minoxidil 5% following hair transplantation for increased growth. Abstract of presentation at European Society of Hair Restoration Surgery, June 2002. London, England
Minoxidil Mini-Series (Part 5)
Part 5 – Minoxidil Benefits, Limitations, and Side Effects
This post will conclude the Avacor® Hair Regrowth Blog's five part "mini-series" on minoxidil, the first FDA-approved treatment for hair loss. Earlier episodes of the mini-series covered the early history of minoxidil, clinical trials showing its efficacy in treating androgenetic alopecia, and its approval by the FDA as a hair regrowth treatment. In this final segment we will highlight the benefits, limitations, and side effects associated with minoxidil.
Benefits of Minoxidil Treatment
Minoxidil products, such as Avacor Physicians Formulation® and Rogaine®, have helped thousands of men and women stop their hair loss and begin regrowing hair.
Several clinical trials have proven that minoxidil is able to prevent hair loss and regrow hair, with investigators observing hair growth in anywhere from 30-60% of patients (for details see our previous post on clinical trials). These studies also suggest that even if patients do not achieve noticeable hair regrowth with minoxidil treatment, they can at least stop losing hair and maintain their baseline hair count.
Minoxidil is the only hair regrowth medication that has been approved by the FDA for both men and women, unlike finasteride (Propecia®) which is only approved for use by men.
One of the other benefits of minoxidil is that it has not been associated with the sexual side effects experienced by some patients taking finasteride (Propecia®), such as decreased arousal and erectile dysfunction.1 For a description of the side effects that have been associated with minoxidil, keep reading for the section below on "Reported Side Effects of Minoxidil."
Minoxidil's Limitations
There is no magic cure for hair loss, so it is important to begin any hair regrowth regimen with accurate information and reasonable expectations. Minoxidil will not work for everyone; its effectiveness is limited to certain types of hair loss and the degree of hair regrowth experienced by each person will differ. In addition, minoxidil requires a consistent, diligent program of use to achieve maximum results.
Only Works for Certain Types of Hair Loss
The only types of hair loss for which minoxidil has been approved by the FDA are male and female androgenetic alopecia. Some studies have reported positive results for a small number of patients with alopecia areata, but the benefits have not been consistent enough to recommend widespread use of minoxidil for this condition.
Men: Minoxidil 5% topical solution, (such as Avacor Physicians Formulation® for Men) is only recommended for men with male pattern hair loss, and is not intended for treating frontal baldness or a receding hairline. Despite a conference presentation by the lead investigator of several early minoxidil trials suggesting that it is also effective in the frontal hairline area,2 the supporting data do not appear to have been published in any peer-reviewed journals or evaluated by the FDA. Patients using minoxidil should not expect to regrow hair in any areas other than the top of the scalp.
Women: Minoxidil 2% topical solution, (such as Avacor Physicians Formulation® for Women) is only recommended for women with female pattern hair loss (general thinning of hair on the top of the scalp). Minoxidil products are not indicated for hair loss that is sudden, patchy, or associated with stress or childbirth.
Minoxidil may not work for patients whose hair loss is too advanced. A general visual guide that shows the degrees of thinning hair for which minoxidil is most effective can be found on Avacor's product packaging (pictured above).
Needs to be Used Consistently
In order to achieve the best possible results with minoxidil, it is essential to apply the topical solution regularly and consistently. The best way to do this is to commit to making it part of your daily routine, even if it's not your favorite part of the day. An analogy for this would be brushing your teeth: while no one particularly enjoys the act of brushing their teeth (at least that we are aware of), most people find the benefits are worth the little bit of time each day.
Like all good things, regrowing hair takes time. You may need to use minoxidil for at least 4 months before you see results, although you may begin to notice the effects as early as 2 months.
Continued use is necessary to prevent hair loss from progressing. One of the longest studies of minoxidil for male pattern hair loss (5 years) found that patients who continued to apply minoxidil twice per day were able to maintain nonvellus hair regrowth well beyond their baseline hair counts.3 Patients who stop using minoxidil will likely not maintain hair that has regrown during the course of treatment and will begin losing hair again.
Reported Side Effects of Minoxidil
More than 20 years after minoxidil was first approved for treating hair loss, the list of commonly reported side effects remains fairly limited. However, there are some rare side effects that should be watched for and taken very seriously.
Some of the most common side effects are:
• Localized scalp reactions or skin irritation (i.e., dryness, itching, redness and mild burning)
• GI discomforts (e.g., mild heartburn, nausea, constipation and diarrhea)
• Hair growth in other body areas (i.e., face, arms, back)
If you experience any of the following rare side effects, you should discontinue use immediately and consult your physician:
• Dizziness, light headedness, faintness, headaches
• Sudden unexplained weight gain, water retention
• Rapid heart beat or chest tightness/discomfort
• Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue
In addition to these side effects, some people have experienced changes in hair color and/or texture.
If you have heart disease you should talk to your doctor before using minoxidil. Minoxidil may be harmful if used when pregnant or breast-feeding, should not be used by children under the age of 18, and should be kept out of reach of children at all times.
Thanks again for checking out the "Minoxidil Mini-Series" here on the Avacor Hair Regrowth Blog. We hope the information we have collected here has given you a better understanding of the history, benefits, and limitations of minoxidil and that it will help you choose the best course of action for regrowing your hair.
If you have any questions or would like to see more information on a particular topic, please leave a comment below. We'd love to hear from you!
1. Irwig MS, Kolukula S. Persistent sexual side effects of finasteride for male pattern hair loss. J Sex Med. 2011 Jun;8(6):1747-53. Link to Pubmed
2. Olsen EA, Whiting DA, Miller JJ. Increased Frontal Scalp Coverage and Frontal Hair Regrowth with 5% and 2% Minoxidil Solution. Presented at the American Academy of Dermatology 61st Annual Meeting, March 2003.
3. Olsen EA, Weiner MS, Amara IA, DeLong ER. Five-year follow-up of men with androgenetic alopecia treated with topical minoxidil. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1990 Apr;22(4):643-6. Link to Pubmed
Minoxidil Mini-Series (Part 4)
Part 4 – FDA Approval and Transition to OTC
So far in the Avacor® Hair Regrowth Blog's "Minoxidil Mini-Series," we have documented the initial use of minoxidil as a blood pressure medication, the surprising discovery that it regrew hair in patients with androgenetic alopecia, and the clinical trials that eventually proved minoxidil's effectiveness for treating hair loss.
Today the story continues with the Food and Drug Administration's initial approval of 2% minoxidil for male pattern baldness in 1988, supplemental approvals allowing use by women and availability over-the-counter, and finally the approval of 5% minoxidil (extra-strength) for men in 1997.
FDA Approves Minoxidil for Male and Female Pattern Hair Loss
After the efficacy of minoxidil for treating hair loss was demonstrated in clinical trials (see our last post for a summary), Pharmacia & Upjohn submitted a New Drug Application (NDA) to the FDA seeking approval to market a 2% topical minoxidil solution for male pattern hair loss.
NDA 19-501 for "Rogaine® Topical Solution" presented data on the safety and efficacy of the formulation, pharmacokinetic studies of drug absorption, a statistical review of the clinical results, and proposed package labeling for the product. With its approval on August 17, 1988, minoxidil became the first-ever FDA-approved treatment for hair regrowth.
Soon after, a supplemental application was made for the use of 2% minoxidil by women suffering from female androgenetic alopecia. Supported by several clinical trials that showed the effectiveness of minoxidil for treating hair loss in women (also summarized in our last post), the application was approved in 1991 and Rogaine® became available to women on a prescription basis.
The product was a huge success, reaching sales of $100 million per year by 1995.1 On February 9, 1996, just two days before Pharmacia & Upjohn's patent on minoxidil expired, the FDA approved a supplement to NDA 19-501 allowing over-the-counter distribution of 2% minoxidil for men (in a blue package) and women (pink package).
FDA Approval of "Extra-Strength" Minoxidil (5%) for Men
Since earlier studies had shown a dose-dependent increase in the effectiveness of minoxidil for hair regeneration in men,2 it was only a matter of time before studies began to test whether doses higher than 2% minoxidil could be more effective in regrowing hair.
The results of a 48-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized, multicenter trial in 393 balding men showed that "5% topical minoxidil was clearly superior to 2% topical minoxidil," producing an earlier response to treatment and resulting in 45% more hair regrowth without evidence of systemic effects from the increased concentration.2 In light of the clear benefits of 5% minoxidil, NDA 20-834 for "Rogaine® Extra Strength For Men (5% Topical Minoxidil Solution)," was approved by the FDA on November 14, 1997.
While the benefits for men were clear, a subsequent trial comparing 5% minoxidil to 2% minoxidil or placebo in female patients did not support its use by women.3 Although the 5% minoxidil solution proved superior to placebo (and resulted in favorable impressions from patients), it did not provide a statistically significant benefit over 2% minoxidil for any of the objective measures of hair regrowth.
Avacor Products' ANDA for Minoxidil
When Pharmacia & Upjohn's patents covering topical minoxidil for hair regrowth expired, other companies received FDA approval through the Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) process to manufacture and sell minoxidil for hair regrowth. Avacor Products LLC currently holds such approval in the form of ANDA #075619 and provides topical minoxidil solutions (Avacor Physicians Formulation®) for both men and women.
Make sure to tune in next week when we wrap up the story with the final episode of the Avacor Hair Regrowth Blog's "Minoxidil Mini-Series." Our goal with this blog is to provide you with the information you need so that you can make an informed decision about your approach to hair regrowth; part of this process is making sure you have a clear understanding of what you can and cannot expect from using minoxidil.
In the last installment we will give a summary of the benefits that minoxidil can provide, but also explain the limitations and potential side effects you might experience. In the end we hope that having all this information in one place will make it easier for you to navigate the world of hair regrowth treatments and find the right solution for you.
1. Gellene, Denise. "TV Ads for Rogaine to Sprout." Los Angeles Times. April 19, 1996. (Accessed July 22, 2011)
2. Shupack JL, Kassimir JJ, Thirumoorthy T, Reed ML, Jondreau L. Dose-response study of topical minoxidil in male pattern alopecia. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1987 Mar;16(3 Pt 2):673-6. Link to PubMed
3. Olsen EA, Dunlap FE, Funicella T, Koperski JA, Swinehart JM, Tschen EH, Trancik RJ. A randomized clinical trial of 5% topical minoxidil versus 2% topical minoxidil and placebo in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia in men. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2002 Sep;47(3):377-85. Link to PubMed
4. Lucky AW, Piacquadio DJ, Ditre CM, Dunlap F, Kantor I, Pandya AG, Savin RC, Tharp MD. A randomized, placebo-controlled trial of 5% and 2% topical minoxidil solutions in the treatment of female pattern hair loss. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2004 Apr;50(4):541-53. Link to PubMed
Minoxidil Mini-Series (Part 3)
Part 3 – Minoxidil Efficacy in Clinical Trials
In the last episode of the "Minoxidil Mini-Series," we followed minoxidil from its inception in the laboratory through the world of cardiovascular medicine, ending with the exciting discovery that minoxidil was actually reversing male pattern baldness in some patients. This week on the Avacor® blog the story continues with a summary of the clinical trials that proved minoxidil's effectiveness as a hair regrowth treatment.
Minoxidil's success in clinical trials led to the first FDA approval for a hair loss drug, initially requiring a doctor's prescription but available now as a popular over-the-counter product. This review is focused primarily on the findings of efficacy of minoxidil for hair regrowth; a summary of the side effects reported in the various trials will appear later in the Mini-Series.
After the initial reports of hair growth induced by minoxidil, several clinical groups began studying the safety and efficacy of minoxidil as a topical treatment for hair loss in both men and women.
Since there have been many studies on the efficacy of minoxidil for treating androgenetic alopecia, it would be impractical to go into great detail on each one here. If you would like to know more about the results of any of the studies listed in this post, please leave a comment about your particular area of interest and we will answer your question as quickly as possible.
Clinical Trials of Minoxidil for Male Pattern Hair Loss
A series of pivotal trials were conducted by Elise Olsen, M.D. and colleagues at the Duke University Medical Center, including one of the first major placebo-controlled, double-blind studies of minoxidil for male pattern baldness.
A dose escalation study by this group found that 1% was the minimum concentration of minoxidil that was effective at increasing total target area hair counts, but that 2% minoxidil produced superior results in the investigator's assessment of cosmetic response.1
The same group conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial involving 126 men with early male pattern baldness (median age of ~36 years old) that compared topical minoxidil to a placebo control.2 After the first four months, patients receiving placebo were switched to a 3% minoxidil solution. The results showed that, during the first four months, patients using 3% minoxidil achieved significantly more hair growth than patients using placebo. When the placebo patients were switched over to 3% minoxidil, they experienced a "marked increase in terminal hair count," achieving a greater than three-fold increase in average terminal hair count over the next eight months, from 59 (+/- 98) to 219 (+/- 168). The authors also note that none of the patients experienced a net hair loss in the target area during the study, suggesting that patients who do not achieve noticeable hair regrowth can at least maintain their baseline hair count with minoxidil treatment.
At the end of this trial, 41 of the patients enrolled in a long-term maintenance study in which they continued using minoxidil for another 90 weeks. At the end of the trial they were assessed for nonvellus hair counts (vellus hairs - fine, "peach fuzz" type hairs - were not evaluated).3 While some patients who continued applying 3% minoxidil solution twice a day lost a portion of the initial gains made during the first part of the trial, the average nonvellus hair count increased slightly from 323 (range of 15 to 589 hairs) to 335 (range of 13 to 808 hairs) during the maintenance study.
The Olsen group then extended this trial even further, following 31 patients who went on to complete 4.5 to 5 years of therapy.4 They ultimately concluded that "hair regrowth with topical minoxidil tends to plateau at about 12 months of treatment" and that "continued use of topical minoxidil is associated with a slow decline in the 12-month hair counts but continued maintenance of nonvellus hair regrowth well beyond that at baseline."
Several other studies have been conducted, some of which are briefly summarized here:
Savin RC. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1987 Mar;16(3 Pt 2):696-704. PubMed
- Double-blind, randomized 12 month study
- 79 patients
Total hair counts showed significant increases at 12 months (p < 0.001) with a mean increase of 144.2 hairs in the 3% minoxidil group. The investigators' visual assessment showed moderate to dense regrowth in 64% of these patients. The author suggests that the increases in nonvellus hair count observed during the study support the conclusion that "minoxidil stops the progression of male pattern baldness."
Civatte J, et al. Dermatologica. 1987;175 Suppl 2:42-9. PubMed
- Double-blind, randomized 48 week study
- 225 patients
Minoxidil (2%) showed superiority to placebo with respect to non-vellus hair counts (p = 0.0084), changes in non-vellus hair counts compared with baseline values (p = 0.0227), and investigators' evaluations of hair growth (p = 0.019). Moderate or dense hair growth was reported in 32.7% of the patients by investigator evaluation.
Rietschel RL, Duncan SH. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1987 Mar;16(3 Pt 2):677-85. PubMed
- Double-blind, randomized 12 month study
- 102 patients (up to 7 may have been female)
Hair counts at 12 months increased from 63.5 to 180.6 (2% minoxidil), 61.0 to 179.9 (3% minoxidil), and 65.0 to 191.1 (placebo crossover to 3%). Investigator evaluations showed visible hair growth in 89 patients (~87%) and dense hair growth (enough to cut or comb) in 33 patients (~32%), with patients reporting even more favorable results. The authors suggest that patients who considered themselves nonresponders in fact experienced prevention of hair loss, and suggest an "ultimate success rate for hair growth of about one third of the patients."
Koperski JA, et al. Arch Dermatol. 1987 Nov;123(11):1483-7. PubMed
- Double-blind, randomized 30 month study
- 59 patients at 12 months, 33 patients at 30 months
Hair regrowth appeared to peak at 12 months. Of the patients who used minoxidil for the full 30 months, 70% finished the trial with "at least 50% more hairs than when they originally started the drug therapy" and a subset of patients "appeared to sustain a continued increase in hair counts." The authors suggest that patients who are "excellent responders" in the first 12 months may be more likely to have a continued hair growth response.
Shupack JL, et al. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1987 Mar;16(3 Pt 2):673-6. PubMed
- Double-blind, randomized 6 month study
- 58 patients
The investigators identified a "clear dose-response correlation for the increase of nonvellus hairs" with escalating doses of minoxidil. Mean nonvellus hair counts increased by 25.9 with 0.1% minoxidil, 36.8 with 1% minoxidil, and 54.1 with 2% minoxidil, however "clinically perceptible hair growth" occurred only in patients treated with 1% or 2% minoxidil solution.
Clinical Trials of Minoxidil for Female Pattern Hair Loss
One of the first studies published on the effectiveness of minoxidil for female androgenetic alopecia was conducted at the University of Minnesota School of Medicine. In this trial, 25 patients were treated for 48 weeks with a 3% topical minoxidil solution.5 Each patient's degree of hair loss was assessed at study entry and classified as either 25-50% hair loss (13/25), 50-75% hair loss (10/25), or 75-99% hair loss (2/25). The study reported significant improvement (P = 0.0083) at 48 weeks, with five of the 25 patients moving to a lower category, and patient self-assessments were positive with 17 patients reporting hair regrowth. While these results were promising, the lack of a placebo control group necessitated further trials with a placebo control group.
Two multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled 32 week trials were then conducted in Europe (10 sites, 294 patients)6 and the U.S. (11 sites, 256 patients)7 to compare 2% topical minoxidil solution with placebo.
The trial in Europe revealed that women using 2% minoxidil achieved a significantly greater increase in nonvellus hair count than women in the placebo group (P = 0.0001), with an increase of 33 hairs compared to 19 hairs, respectively. The U.S. study found that average nonvellus hair counts in a 1 cm2 target area increased by approximately twice as much in the 2% minoxidil group (23 hairs) as the placebo group (11 hairs).
These trials were notable for the relatively high percentage of patients in the placebo group who were reported to experience hair growth, both by investigator assessment (~30-40%) and patient self-reporting (~40%).
The results of two smaller studies are summarized here:
Olsen EA. Cutis. 1991 Sep;48(3):243-8. Pubmed
- Randomized, placebo-controlled 32 week study
- 28 patients
The study reported statistically significant increases in both nonvellus target area hair counts (p = 0.006) and investigator's assessment of hair regrowth (p = 0.007), although the study participants were unable to discern a difference between treatment groups.
Whiting DA, Jacobson C. Int J Dermatol. 1992 Nov;31(11):800-4. Pubmed
- Double-blind, randomized 32 week study
- 28 patients
Nonvellus hair counts for patients in the minoxidil group increased from a baseline mean of 169 hairs to a final count of 195 hairs (~15.4% increase) at study completion, compared to an increase from 161 hairs to 177 (~9.9%) in the placebo group. Assessment of hair growth showed 60% of women using minoxidil experienced minimal to moderate hair growth compared to 46% of placebo patients.
Together these trials provided significant evidence of the effectiveness of minoxidil for stopping hair loss and regrowing hair in both male and female patients suffering from androgenetic alopecia. While not all study participants experienced significant hair regrowth, many male patients grew hair that in some cases persisted for up to 4-5 years of minoxidil use. The results of the women's trials were not as simple to interpret as those for men. Many women in the placebo groups appeared to regrow hair during the course of the trials, but in most cases the increased hair growth achieved with minoxidil was statistically significant compared to the placebo group.
Next time on the Avacor Hair Regrowth Blog's "Minoxidil Mini-Series," we will document minoxidil's approval by the FDA for treating hair loss and its eventual approval as an over-the-counter medication.
1. Olsen EA, DeLong ER, Weiner MS. Dose-response study of topical minoxidil in male pattern baldness. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1986 Jul;15(1):30-7. Link to Pubmed
2. Olsen EA, Weiner MS, Delong ER, Pinnell SR. Topical minoxidil in early male pattern baldness. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1985 Aug;13(2 Pt 1):185-92. Link to Pubmed
3. Olsen EA, DeLong ER, Weiner MS. Long-term follow-up of men with male pattern baldness treated with topical minoxidil. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1987 Mar;16(3 Pt 2):688-95. Link to Pubmed
4. Olsen EA, Weiner MS, Amara IA, DeLong ER. Five-year follow-up of men with androgenetic alopecia treated with topical minoxidil. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1990 Apr;22(4):643-6. Link to Pubmed
5. Hordinsky MK, Shank J. Three percent topical minoxidil therapy for female androgenetic alopecia. Clin Dermatol. 1988 Oct-Dec;6(4):213-7. Link to Pubmed
6. Jacobs JP, Szpunar CA, Warner ML. Use of topical minoxidil therapy for androgenetic alopecia in women. Int J Dermatol. 1993 Oct;32(10):758-62. Link to Pubmed
7. DeVillez RL, Jacobs JP, Szpunar CA, Warner ML. Androgenetic alopecia in the female. Treatment with 2% topical minoxidil solution. Arch Dermatol. 1994 Mar;130(3):303-7. Link to Pubmed
Minoxidil Mini-Series (Part 2)
Part 2 – From Blood Pressure to Baldness
In Part 2 of the Avacor® Hair Regrowth Blog "Minoxidil Mini-Series" we will trace the path of minoxidil through the 1970s and 1980s as reports of hair growth led a potent blood pressure (BP) medication to be proposed as a treatment for male pattern baldness (MPB).
Minoxidil was first synthesized in the 1960s by William Anthony and Joseph Ursprung of The Upjohn Company (US Patent No. 3,461,461) and was initially prescribed as a vasodilator for lowering blood pressure in patients with hypertension.1
A few years later, some doctors began to note an unintended effect in patients taking the drug: hair growth.
Early Reports of Hair Growth
Compared to other antihypertensive treatments available at the time, such as propranolol and hydralazine, a 1972 study found that oral minoxidil therapy (later known as Loniten®) provided a significant improvement in blood pressure reduction.2 However, the authors also observed hypertrichosis (excessive hair growth) in five of the eight patients who were treated with the drug for more than two months.
Many subsequent publications during the 1970s confirmed these initial reports of increased hair growth with minoxidil, with observations such as: "side effects included increased hair growth." 3
This effect may not have been particularly surprising since another vasodilator, diazoxide, had been associated with hypertrichosis in the early 1960s.4 Although chemically unrelated to minoxidil, diazoxide relaxes blood vessels by a similar mechanism (activation of ATP-sensitive potassium channels).
"Reversal of male pattern baldness by minoxidil…"
In the early 1980s, isolated case reports began to emerge that described the "reversal of baldness" by minoxidil.5,6 One patient's experience was particularly compelling:6
"Within four weeks dark-brown hair (the normal color for this patient) grew over the area of the scalp that had previously been devoid of hair visible to the naked eye and had made up the major portion of his scalp except for the sides and back of his head. By eight weeks these new hairs were approximately 1.3 cm (0.5 in) long. The density of hair and the hair-shaft thickness were equal to those of the areas of this patient's scalp that were normally not subject to balding."
One prescient report of minoxidil causing "excessive hair growth" on the "temples and forehead," which was published before the other two reports on baldness, even proposed its use as a topical treatment for androgenetic alopecia:7
"The high incidence of hypertrichosis produced by both diazoxide and minoxidil suggests the possibility that an effective topical formulation might stimulate local hair growth in early male-pattern alopecia…"
The drug's maker, Upjohn, was already well-prepared to capitalize on the new indication that was being proposed for its drug. By February, 1979, the company had already received a patent covering the use of topical minoxidil compositions for growing hair.
The Upjohn Company Patents Minoxidil for Alopecia
"The invention claimed is: 1. A method of treating humans for alopecia…"
Upjohn was granted two critical U.S. patents covering the use of minoxidil for treating male pattern baldness:
US Patent No. 4,139,619 claimed a "topical composition" that could be used for "increasing the rate of terminal hair growth in mammalian species" and "conversion of vellus hair to growth as terminal hair."
US Patent No. 4,596,812 claimed a "method of treating humans for alopecia which comprises topically applying to the human scalp an effective amount of a solution containing 6-amino-1,2-dihydro-1-hydroxy-2-imino-4-piperidinopyrimidine and a solvent."
These patents laid the foundation for the successful commercialization of minoxidil as a treatment for male pattern baldness, under the trade name Rogaine®.
In the next installment of the Avacor Hair Regrowth Blog "Minoxidil Mini-Series," we will describe the clinical trials that proved minoxidil's effectiveness against alopecia in men and women, as well as the approval by the FDA of minoxidil as the first treatment for male pattern hair loss. Check back here soon for Part 3 – Efficacy in Clinical Trials.
1. Gilmore E, Weil J, Chidsey C. Treatment of essential hypertension with a new vasodilator in combination with beta-adrenergic blockade. N Engl J Med. 1970 Mar 5;282(10):521-7. Link to Pubmed
2. Gottlieb TB, Katz FH, Chidsey CA 3rd. Combined therapy with vasodilator drugs and beta-adrenergic blockade in hypertension. A comparative study of minoxidil and hydralazine. Circulation. 1972 Mar;45(3):571-82. Link to Pubmed
3. Jacomb RG, Brunnberg FJ. The use of minoxidil in the treatment of severe essential hypertension: a report on 100 patients. Clin Sci Mol Med Suppl. 1976 Dec;3:579s-581s. Link to Pubmed
4. Okun R, Russell RP, Wilson WR. Use of diazoxide with trichlormethiazide for hypertension. Arch Intern Med. 1963 Dec;112:882-8. Link to Pubmed
5. Seidman M, Westfried M, Maxey R, Rao TK, Friedman EA. Reversal of male pattern baldness by minoxidil. A case report. Cutis. 1981 Nov;28(5):551-3. Link to Pubmed
6. Zappacosta AR. Reversal of baldness in patient receiving minoxidil for hypertension. N Engl J Med. 1980 Dec 18;303(25):1480-1. Link to Pubmed
7. Burton JL, Marshall A. Hypertrichosis due to minoxidil. Br J Dermatol. 1979 Nov;101(5):593-5. Link to Pubmed
Minoxidil Mini-Series: Introduction
Of all the products sold to combat hair loss and regrow hair, only two have ever been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for regrowing hair: minoxidil and finasteride.
Minoxidil is available for both men and women as a topical treatment, while finasteride (Propecia®) comes in pill form and is not currently indicated for use by women. Minoxidil was first approved by the FDA for hair regrowth in 1988 and continues to be one of the most effective known treatments for androgenetic alopecia (AGA) to date.
In the next few Avacor® Hair Regrowth Blog posts we will recount the history of minoxidil, from its origins as a prescription blood pressure medication to its current use as an over-the-counter hair growth treatment.
We will highlight some of the clinical trials that have shown minoxidil's effectiveness in stopping hair loss and regrowing hair (for both men and women), explain some of the benefits and limitations of using minoxidil, and describe some potential side effects you might experience.
Stay tuned to the Avacor Hair Regrowth Blog in the next few days for Part 2 of the "Minoxidil Mini-Series": From Blood Pressure to Baldness.
A "New" Molecular Mechanism Proposed For Minoxidil
A study1 published in the June 2011 issue of the Journal of Dermatological Science may shed some light on the mechanisms by which minoxidil promotes hair regrowth.
Minoxidil, the FDA-approved active ingredient in Avacor Physicians Formulation®, has been clinically proven to regrow hair in patients with androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Although minoxidil is a vasodilator and is known to increase circulation and blood flow to the scalp, it is not completely clear how it achieves hair regrowth in AGA patients at the molecular level.
This exciting research shows that minoxidil activates the β-catenin pathway in vitro in cultured human dermal papilla cells, a population of cells in the hair follicle involved in the induction and maintenance of hair growth.
Previous research on β-catenin from Harvard Medical School has shown that β-catenin activity in the dermal papilla regulates the regeneration of hair2 and scientists at the University of Michigan found that simply activating β-catenin in skin cells is sufficient to trigger the active growth phase of the hair cycle in mice.3
While this finding still needs to be confirmed by other research groups, the authors' suggestion that "minoxidil extends the anagen phase by activating β-catenin activity" offers an exciting hypothesis on the mechanism of action of minoxidil.
This hypothesis is especially interesting in light of other research showing that dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone that causes AGA, inhibits β-catenin activity in hair follicle cells (see our previous post on "Mouse-Pattern Baldness").
Taken together, these two conclusions raise the possibility that 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (which block DHT production) could work in concert with minoxidil to further increase β-catenin activity and hair regeneration. Future research into any such potential additive or synergistic effects would be of great interest to the hair regrowth community.
1. Kwack MH, Kang BM, Kim MK, Kim JC, Sung YK. Minoxidil activates beta-catenin pathway in human dermal papilla cells: A possible explanation for its anagen prolongation effect. J Dermatol Sci. 2011 Jun;62(3):154-9. Link to Pubmed
2. Enshell-Seijffers D, Lindon C, Kashiwagi M, Morgan BA. Beta-catenin activity in the dermal papilla regulates morphogenesis and regeneration of hair. Dev Cell. 2010 Apr 20;18(4):633-42. Link to Pubmed
3. Van Mater D, Kolligs FT, Dlugosz AA, Fearon ER. Transient activation of beta-catenin signaling in cutaneous keratinocytes is sufficient to trigger the active growth phase of the hair cycle in mice. Genes Dev. 2003 May 15;17(10):1219-24. Link to Pubmed


text:
- Description
- Reviews
Comvita UMF 10+ Manuka Honey is produced in New Zealand and contains unique plant phenols. Comvita UMF 10+ Manuka Honey is guaranteed to be at least UMF 10+ and has been verified by an independent testing laboratory.
Take 10g (1-2 teaspoonfuls) of Comvita? UMF? 10+ Active Manuka Honey 4 times a day. Alternatively, can be used as a delicious spread. For preferred honey consistency, warm to soften or refrigerate to firm.
Not suitable for children under one year of age.
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subset: commoncrawl


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Annamalaiyar Builders & Co
Address: B/19, AUM Complex, Thiruvalluvar Street, 4th Stop, Thirunagar, Tamil Nadu, 625107
Phone number: 91-045-24246606
URL: http://www.annamalaiyarbuilders.comPost A Recommendation Bookmark this Business
Owning a home is the biggest dream of everyone. However, it needs lots of investment as well as time to plan for it. People look for a good builder with high reputation in the industry. If you are among those professional construction service seekers, Annamalaiyar Builders Private Limited is the perfect destination for you.
The journey of Annamalaiyar Builders has been interesting and mounting. In 2003, Annamalaiyar began its operations, starting with residential building construction contracts and in the subsequent years we carried out Industrial, Educational and Communication Companies Works. "Annamalaiyar" worked with TVS Group of Companies (Textiles Division) and Airtel (Bharati Tele Venture) that were the milestones to for us in this period. After this, we completed Landmark in Valar Nagar Extn "Sai Preethi Homes Phase I & II" and Paravai "Ashwin Nithish Avenue" projects during the years of 2011-14.
Annamalaiyar today is formed as a Private Limited Company Named "ANNAMALAIYAR BUILDERS PRIVATE LIMITED". Now, Vasantham Villas, Shivaanga Avenue projects operate in the name of "ANNAMALAIYAR BUILDERS & CO". Under the aegis of Mr. M.ALAGAPPAN, Managing Director (Finance & Marketing) and Mr. M.RAMANATHAN, Managing Director, (Planning & Execution), Annamalaiyar has invested in Building Homes of Supreme Quality & Eco Friendly.
You can call us for all or any construction needs and wants. With a commitment to on-time delivery of quality work, we work with sincerity towards the successful completion of your construction projects.
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"Jim Manley, a spokesman for Mr. Reid, said that Senator Olympia J. Snowe of Maine, the lone Republican on the Finance Committee to vote in favor of the bill, would be invited to future sessions. And Mr. Manley said the Democratic leader was prepared to go to substantial lengths to keep Ms. Snowe's support."[emphasis added.]
Here's what this means. So, the health care bill has been voted out of both the Senate Fiance Committee and the HELP Committee. Now it goes into a super secret phase in which wimpy Harry Reid, shitfacey Max Baucus, questionable-at-best Chris Dodd, and the PhRMA-loving White House are all gonna sit in a sauna, naked, counting their money until New Year's Eve, at which point the country will be told "we have to pass a bill quickly!" and we'll get some real weak-ass sauce called "reform."
BUT NOW it turns out that Olympia Snowe, who overthrew the elected government of the US in a bloodless coup earlier this month, will also be sitting in on these circles jerk sesh-es. For analysis of what that means for YOU, the angry, progressive, blog-reading stoner (probably!), let's turn to Ezra Klein, who blogs for literally 23.5 hours every day. Word has it he only stops to mainline that 6-hour energy stuff and then sing "You Are The Wind Beneath My Wings" to a poster of Peter Orszag. Ez-dog writes:
"This shifts the room's balance of power substantially: The negotiations were previously confined to one liberal Democrat and one centrist Democrat. Now they'll be between one liberal Democrat, one centrist Democrat, and one moderate Republican. In practice, this is likely to mean that Baucus will have something of a trump card against Dodd. If there's a particularly thorny dispute, and Snowe weighs in strongly alongside Baucus, it's hard to imagine Reid siding with Dodd, except in the most extraordinary of cases."
In words more appropriate for this blog: three fucks you can't trust just included a new fuck who's worse than all of them. Perfect!
In what should come as a surprise to nobody, FireDogLake is just goin' NUTS about this. Jon Walker from FDL has started calling Snowe, "The Empress."
"I know many on the left have taken to calling Republican Senator Olympia Snowe, President Snowe. This has been in response to the Democratic party leadership willingness to do almost anything to gain/keep Snowe's support for health care reform. Frankly, this does not fully encompass just how much power has been handed over to Snowe.
After all, many presidents (Nixon, Clinton, Truman, Johnson) have tried and failed to get the health care bill they wanted passed the United States Senate. Snowe is basically being told that she can write whatever health care bill she wants. This is more say than has been offered to any president in the past 100 years.
Her sway on the issue of health care reform is closer to that of absolute monarch than of any American president in history. I think Empress Snowe more properly summarizes how completely some in the Democratic leadership are prepared to defer to her."
Also worth briefly mentioning is a bit of boring Parliamentary procedure that makes this sauna fuck-fest so important. Once the Finance bill and the HELP bill get combined in this closed-door meeting, it will take 60 votes on the floor of the Senate to either add or subtract any amendments to or from the new bill. THAT MEANS, in essence, that whatever comes out of the meeting is what the Senate bill will ultimately look like. It's in all likelihood going to be impossible to add a public option amendment to the bill if it doesn't have one. By the same token, if a public option is in the bill, it will not be removed.
What it comes down to is that supporters of the Public Option are now relying on the repulsive Harry Reid to act as their advocate for the most important domestic reform since the Voting Rights Act. Shudder. Already, colleagues are placing the responsibility squarely on Reid. Chuck Shumer was on Maddow last night, and he had this to say [via FDL]:
"Well, first leader Reid has the option of putting [the public option] in the final bill. If he puts it in the final bill, in the combined bill, then you would need 60 votes to remove it, and there are clearly not 60 votes against the public option. And so we're urging him to do that, and he is seriously considering it. Once it passes the Senate, if that were to happen, it is in the House bill, it is in the Senate bill, and it would have to be in the final product. So, it is very important to see if the public option is in the bill leader Reid puts together. He hasn't yet made up his mind, but many of us who believe in the public option are urging him to do so. So far, we are getting heard."
Before you get ahead of yourselves, though, Reid and Whores may very well include a "public option" with a "trigger," which, as I've written before, is not a public option. Jonathon Cohn, who writes for the retardo-zine The New Republic, sees this option as quite likely. He writes:
"The most likely scenario, I continue to think, is to arrive at some sort of trigger. But a well-designed trigger might still do some good. The key is designing one that would actually scare insurers, enough to make them provide the kind of affordable coverage we all want."
He is wrong. That outcome will scare nobody--nobody, that is, except future progressive politicians who want to enact reform. The triggers are worse than useless, as Empress Snowe, Rahm the Knife Murderer, and everybody else knows. They will insure that insurance companies profits will continue to rise, as the quality of health care goes down.
One thing we can know for sure is that this latest development--of including Snowe in the meeting--is bad, bad, bad.


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The author suggests that the concept of man's evolution by natural selection has been overtaken by `culture' and rendered obsolete. `We no longer have to adapt genetically to our environment. We have mastered it. Today, inherited tendencies once vital for our very survival are no longer appropriate. They serve only to underline our socio-environmental problems.'
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MacPlay has announced an agreement with JAMDAT Mobile, Inc. to port 3 new games to the Mac platform. Slated for development are Kasparov Chessmate, Emperors Mahjong, and Hard Rock Casino to whet a gamers appetite. Along with the well known gameplay, the titles offer additional features for expanded amusement. According to MacPlay:
MacPlay, a subsidiary of United Developers, LLC, today announced a multi-title agreement with JAMDAT Mobile Inc. The first three games in the agreement-Kasparov Chessmate(tm), The Emperoris Mahjong, and Hard Rock(r) Casino-are scheduled to be available during the fourth quarter of 2003.
Kasparov Chessmate features the deep wisdom of renowned chess Grandmaster Garry Kasparov, who offers useful hints to players of all skill levels. Gamers can tackle challenges based on historic matches, play against the computer or virtual opponents at the Kasparov Chess Club, select one of four game-length modes and track their personal game histories. In addition, players can switch between 2D and 3D views to get the best look at the action.
The Emperoris Mahjong is set in ancient China, where players participate in a quest for the six gems that will make them Emperor of China. Their goal is to master the five spheres of knowledge, as represented by mahjong boards with different themes, and win the corresponding gems. After they complete that task, they attend the Meeting of the 12 Emperors, where the final gem is up for grabs.
Hard Rock Casino combines the hard-driving beat of rock music with the intensity of the most popular casino games. Players can select from tunes that span the i50s to the present day,as they go for big money in a variety of popular casino games. High-rollers gain access to rooms that feature greater stakes, and marvel as their clothing accessories change to reflect whether they are up or down in winnings.
You can find more information about JAMDAT title development at the MacPlay Web site. The games are slated for release in Q4 2003, and will carry are retail price of US$19.99 each.


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Boulder, Colo., USA - The rise of the Tibetan plateau -- the largest topographic anomaly above sea level on Earth -- is important for both its profound effect on climate and its reflection of continental dynamics. In this study published in GSA Bulletin, Katharine Huntington and colleagues employ a cutting-edge geochemical tool -- "clumped" isotope thermometry -- using modern and fossil snail shells to investigate the uplift history of the Zhada basin in southwestern Tibet.
Views range widely on the timing of surface uplift of the Tibetan Plateau to its current high (~4.5 km) over more than 2.5 square kilometers. Specifically, interpretations differ on whether the modern high elevations were recently developed or are largely a continuation of high elevations developed prior to Indo-Asian collision in the Eocene.
Clumped isotope temperatures of modern and fossil snail shells record changing lake water temperatures over the last nine million years. This is a reflection of changes in surface temperature as a function of climate and elevation change. A key to their Zhada Basin paleo-elevation reconstructions is that Huntington and colleagues were able to contextualize them with sampling of modern and Holocene-age tufa and shells from a range of aquatic environments.
Huntington and colleagues find that the Zhada basin was significantly colder from three to nine million years ago, implying a loss of elevation of more than one kilometer since the Pliocene. While surprising given the extreme (~4 km) elevation of the basin today, the higher paleo-elevation helps explain paleontological evidence of cold-adapted mammals living in a high-elevation climate, and is probably the local expression of east-west extension across much of the southern Tibetan Plateau at this time.
Huntington and colleagues note that future studies could improve on their own initial "calibration" work with year-round monitoring of water temperature and a focus on specific taxa and their micro-habitat preferences.
High Late Miocene-Pliocene elevation of the Zhada basin, SW Tibetan plateau, from carbonate clumped isotope thermometry
K.W. Huntington et al., Dept. of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA. Published online 7 Aug. 2014; http://dx.
Other GSA Bulletin articles (see below) cover such topics as
- Earthquakes and tsunamis in the Yaquina River estuary, Oregon, USA;
- The sinistral Garlock fault, California; and
- The normal Grayback fault block, Arizona; and
- Central England: A globally significant Charnian fossil locality, among others.
GSA Bulletin articles published ahead of print are online at http://gsabulletin.
Sign up for pre-issue publication e-alerts at http://www.
Please discuss articles of interest with the authors before publishing stories on their work, and please make reference to GSA Bulletin in your articles or blog posts. Contact Kea Giles for additional information or assistance.
Non-media requests for articles may be directed to GSA Sales and Service, email@example.com.
Stratigraphic and microfossil evidence for a 4,500-year history of Cascadia subduction zone earthquakes and tsunamis at Yaquina River estuary, Oregon, USA
N.A. Graehl et al. (Kelsey, corresponding author), Dept. of Geology, Humboldt State University, Arcata, California 95524, USA. Published online 7 Aug. 2014; http://dx.
New research on the central Oregon coast reveals that 11 subduction zone earthquakes and associated tsunamis have affected the Newport, Oregon, USA, area in the past 4,500 years. This research adds to a growing body of knowledge that implicates great subduction zone earthquakes recurring on average every 420-580 years. Each earthquake is accompanied by abrupt land-level lowering of the coastal region of at least half a meter and by incursion of tsunami waves to the Yaquina Bay region.
Evolution of the central Garlock fault zone, California: A major sinistral fault embedded in a dextral plate margin
Joseph E. Andrew et al., Dept. of Geology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66045, USA. Published online 26 Aug. 2014; http://dx.
The slip rate of the Garlock fault in southeastern California has accelerated through time to the modern rate of 9 mm per year. Left-lateral strike-slip displacement of 64 km on the Garlock fault began 11 million years ago as an accommodation structure to Basin and Range extension. The Garlock fault subsequently changed geometry and rates when dextral shear initiated inboard of the San Andreas plate boundary. The Garlock fault evolved to a structurally more complex fault zone to accommodate the transversely oriented dextral shear. Dextral shear across the Garlock fault is accommodated by internal deformation within the Garlock fault zone via lateral extrusion, uplift, folding, internal block rotation, and counterclockwise rotation of its trace.
Confirmation of a low pre-extensional geothermal gradient in the Grayback normal fault block, Arizona: Structural and AHe thermochronologic evidence
M.S. Wong et al., Dept. of Geology, Colgate University, Hamilton, New York 13346, USA. Published online 7 Aug. 2014; http://dx.
Many models of continental extension and rifting call upon crustal heating from magmatism or other processes to trigger and localize rifting (active rift models). However, it is often difficult to measure the thermal structure of the crust directly for ancient rift zones, so such models have been difficult to evaluate. M.S. Wong and colleagues present new (U-Th)/He apatite thermochronology from the Grayback tilted normal fault block in the North American Basin and Range extensional province confirming that a very low geothermal gradient (14 to 17 degrees Celsius per kilometer) existed just prior to major Tertiary extension. This result challenges the notion that reheating of the crust was a significant driving force of crustal extension in the Basin and Range.
U-Pb geochronology and global context of the Charnian Supergroup, UK: Constraints on the age of key Ediacaran fossil assemblages
S.R. Noble et al., Natural Environment Research Council Isotope Geosciences Laboratory, British Geological Survey, Keyworth, Nottinghamshire, NG12 5GG, UK. Published online 26 Aug. 2014; http://dx.
The Charnian Supergroup of Central England is a globally significant fossil locality where Precambrian complex life-forms are well preserved. The Neoproterozoic Ediacaran Period was a seminal time in the evolution of multicellular life. Important among these Precambrian complex organisms were the Rangeomorphs and their possible taphomorphs (ivesheadiamorphs). Unfortunately, the timing of key biological events relating to the evolution of these organisms is relatively poorly constrained due to a paucity of high-precision dates worldwide. New U-Pb geochronology data presented here by Stephen R. Noble and colleagues contribute significantly to the temporal constraints on these organisms, showing that Charnian fossils (older than 569 to 557 million years) partly overlap in age with the other key Rangeomorph locality in the paleo-region (Mistaken Point, Newfoundland), and also with macro-organism communities from very different environmental settings (e.g. White Sea, Russia). Together, this indicates that paleoenvironmental differences rather than temporal control are a first-order control on biota composition at this time.
Sinkholes, pit craters, and small calderas: Analog models of depletion-induced collapse analyzed by computed X-ray microtomography
S. Poppe et al., Dept. of Geography, Earth System Science, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium. Published online 26 Aug. 2014; http://dx.
In nature, sub-surface bodies of molten or ductile rock might become abruptly depleted, resulting in the collapse of the overlying rock and the sometimes catastrophic formation of a "hole in the ground" at surface. These are termed sinkholes in karst terrains and pit-craters or calderas on volcanoes. For the first time, S. Poppe and colleagues use computed X-ray micro-tomography (μCT), similar to the imaging of patients using CT-scanners, to image laboratory-scale models of such collapse process. Their simulations illustrate how collapse rates within the collapsing rock are varying in space and time, with the highest rates before and shortly after the surface depression is formed. The collapsing material also undergoes a volumetric expansion. On volcanoes, such "bulking" of the rocks overlying an emptying magma chamber may at least partially explain why the volume of the erupted lava is commonly larger compared to that of the surface depression. This insight is of great use to seismic or volcano observatories who will face such collapse events in the future.
Impacts of catastrophic volcanic collapse on the erosion and morphology of a distal fluvial landscape: Hautapu River, Mount Ruapehu, New Zealand
M. Tost et al., Volcanic Risk Solutions, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand. Published online 26 Aug. 2014; http://dx.
Debris avalanches caused by the collapse of volcanic flanks may permanently change the surrounding landscape and its drainage systems. Deposits of a two- to three-cubic-kilometer debris avalanche exposed along the Hautapu River about 50 km southeast of Mount Ruapehu, New Zealand, reflect the largest known collapse event of the stratovolcano, followed by a regrowth phase that produced pyroclastic eruptions and pumice-rich lahars. The collapse most likely occurred due to magmatic unrest during the shift from a glacial to an interglacial climate. The debris avalanche inundated an area of more than 260 square kilometers, and was channelized within the proto-Hautapu catchment. The subsequent pumiceous mass-wasting events continued to be confined to the proto-Hautapu River for another approx. ten thousand years. At present the volcaniclastic deposits form a distinctive plateau on the highest topographic elevation within the river valley, while the Hautapu River incises into the underlying softer late Pliocene sediments.
Sevier belt exhumation in central Utah constrained from complex zircon (U-Th)/He data sets: Radiation damage and He inheritance effects on partially reset detrital zircons
William R. Guenthner et al., Dept. of Geology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois 61820, USA. Published online 26 Aug. 2014; http://dx.
In this manuscript, William Guenthner and colleagues provide new data that demonstrate the age of mountain building processes in the mountain ranges of western Utah. The authors rely upon radiometric dating and a new understanding of nanoscopic processes occurring in the mineral zircon to record some of the oldest ages for mountain uplift in this portion of the Rocky Mountains. Their new data provide support for previous interpretations that the Rocky Mountains in Utah were being uplifted at least 120 million years ago.


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Garmin Launches Edge 510 and 810 GPS Cycling Computers
Extending its already formidable lead in the category, Garmin has launched two new powerful GPS cycling computers that will eventually replace the Edge 500 and Edge 800 units. The new Garmin Edge 810 and Edge 510 look to be about as slick as this highly-produced video made to promote the computers. The 810 keeps the same dimensions and form as its predecessor, while the 510 gets even smaller and more compact than the 500, and adds a touchscreen display that's readable in sunlight.
The big story—as attested to by Ryder Hesjedal, David Millar, Dan Martin, Jonathan Vaughters, et al—is the new units' connectivity. By interfacing with a smartphone, the computers can automatically upload activities to GarminConnect and other social media outlets, provide real-time weather updates on the road, and facilitate live tracking. That means that anyone a user invites can follow along with a ride in real time, which makes it a great way for friends and family to keep tabs on their riders while they are out in the field. It's also a perfect tool for coaches, since they'll be able to easily follow along with their athletes' progress on the road, including heart rate, cadence, power, and all other metrics. Battery life on the units are also said to increase, to 17 hours on the 810 and 20-plus hours on the 510, making them more applicable for endurance and adventure activities than past iterations.
The Edge 810 is available now for $500, and the 510 will go on sale later this winter for $330. We'll be taking posession of both units this week and will bring you a detailed review as soon as we've logged some time with them.
—Aaron Gulley


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The 1997 Chrysler Town and Country Speed Control System is electronically controlled and vacuum operated. The electronic control is integrated into the powertrain control module, located next to battery. The controls are located on the steering wheel and consist of the ON/OFF, SET, RESUME/ACCEL, CANCEL and DECEL buttons.
Archives for Town
1997 Chrysler Town and Country Starting System Component Schematic Diagram
The 1997 Chrysler Town and Country Starting System consists of ignition switch, starter relay, powertrain control module (PCM) double start override, neutral starting and back up switch with automatic transmission only, wiring harness, battery, starter motor with integral solenoid, positive temperature coefficient (which is the circuit protection for the ignition feed to the starter relay coil. The PTC is located in the Junction Block).


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The lines between the Clinton Foundation and the Hillary Clinton-run state department are getting blurrier every day. Emails obtained by theWashington Examiner reveal that the Clinton Foundation was pushing for a relationship with Russian billionaire Viktor Vekselberg at the same time Vekselberg was running a key part of the "Russian reset" which was the responsibility of Hillary Clinton's State Department.
Last month we detailed a report by Peter Schweizer released in a report called "From Russia With Money," Secretary of State Hillary Clinton oversaw "a major technology transfer initiative" that "may have substantially undermined U.S. national security." Coincidentally (if you believe in coincidences) the Clinton Family enriched themselves out of the deal. This was all part of the failed Clinton effort to improve relations with Russia that began with presenting Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov with a button she thought said "reset" in Russian, but it actually said "overcharged."
Mr. Schweitzer revealed that a key program of the "reset" was to help Russia develop its own version of Silicon Valley. Called "Skolkovo" and located near Moscow, it housed technology for developing biomed, space, nuclear and IT technologies.
Trending: Former Australian Politician Gives Life to Christ at 85 After Lifetime of Atheism
On first glance the project itself seemed benign and possibly a good deal for both sides, the Russians get access to American cash and some of the country's best technology, the U.S.-based companies, gets access to the Russian market, receive special tax status and "special access to research in Russia. For example, one investment firm received "priority access to the database of the Skolkovo Foundation projects and companies, enabling it to select the most promising projects early in their development." On the other hand, there are warnings from the FBI that and within Ms. Clinton's own state department at the time that Skolkovo may have created a for Russia a legal way to gain access to America's classified technology, the kind of access they used to use espionage to access.
At the time we learned that Skolkovo Foundation chief and billionaire Putin confidant Viktor Vekselberg was a donor. Vekselberg's Renova Group has donated between $50,000 and $100,000 to the Clinton Foundation, donor records show. Another firm associated with Vekselberg, OC Oerlikon, donated $25,000 to the Clinton Foundation.
Now emails obtained by the Washington Examiner reveal that Clinton Foundation staff pushed Hillary's State Department to approve a meeting between Bubba Clinton and Vekselberg at the same time the State Dept. was lining up investors for Vekselberg's Skolkovo project.
The Clintons' relationship with Viktor Vekselberg, the billionaire whose name appears in the documents, has taken on new significance amid an expanding criminal investigation into his company. Last week, authorities raided the offices of Vekselberg's firm, Renova Group, following allegations of bribery from several of Renova's subsidiaries.
The emails reveal another case of "blurred lines" between Hillary's State Department and the Bubba Clinton run foundation…
Continue Reading this Intriguing Story at Jeff Dunetz's the Lid…


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12 Raleigh-Made Holiday Gift Ideas
Friday, November 04, 2016, 8am by visitRaleigh
There's no doubt that Raleigh, N.C.'s "maker" scene is thriving. Passionate entrepreneurs are creating and selling handmade products, some nationally-known, throughout the destination. And residents and visitors alike are hooked on them. If you're looking for the perfect gifts for family and friends this holiday season, the capital city is your place to shop. You can't go wrong with these picks:
Moon and Lola jewelry and accessories
Kelly Shatat's jewelry-making started as a hobby, but it didn't take long to bloom into a full-scale business. Her jewelry has been featured in publications nationwide and is honored to have been on Oprah's Favorite Things list more than once. Hit the DIY Charm Bar at the Moon and Lola headquarters in Apex or at one of the Raleigh locations to personalize jewelry on the spot; monogram and themed charms are at your fingertips. For animal lovers, the Oprah's Favorite Things-featured pet ornaments are perfect for the holidays.
The chocolate factory in downtown Raleigh, dreamed up and created by Sam and Starr Ratto and Chris Heavener, offers up bean-to-car chocolate using fair-trade, organic beans, which Sam sources himself from Central and South America. Popular picks are the 70% Classic Dark chocolate bar and the 70% Dark Chocolate with Organic Candy Cane (pictured below), available now and throughout the holidays.
Escazu, also downtown, offers up handcrafted bars, truffles, confections and more. Inspired by a 2005 trip to an organic cacao farm in Costa Rica, Hallot Parson returned to the U.S. and began to study the chocolate making process and how it might be produced on a small scale. Soon enough, his chocolate would become a Raleigh favorite. Goat's Milk, Sea Salt and Roasted Nib are a few of the bars you can choose from.
House of Swank clothing
John Pugh was playing gigs as Johnny Swank in bars and blues jams. In an effort to offset his bar tab, he decided to make some Johnny Swank merch T-shirts. With the power of the silkscreen, John started to make other shirts that would represent his love of N.C., music and food. Part-time hobby gave way to full-time passion in 2012 as House of Swank was born and became a regular presence at local festivals and events. Shop House of Swank's downtown home-base for N.C.-themed graphic tees, hats, hoodies and more.
Holly Aiken bags
Homegrown talent Holly Aiken draws inspiration from dime store aisles
and vintage racing jackets, combining crisp colors with striking shapes
for a modern take on vintage vibe. And fashion editors have taken notice,
with Lucky, Design Milk and Teen Vogue recently
showcasing her designs. Bags are made onsite at her downtown Raleigh
shop by textile artisans, enabling you to shop a seemingly-endless
variety of ready-to-wear items, or to commission their own custom
Local beer
With 25 breweries (and counting) in the Raleigh area, there's no shortage of local beers to choose from as gifts. A good number of the breweries bottle or can, and all of them offer up growler pours (just gift the growler as soon as you can for freshness). You can also pick up a souvenir glass or two to include with the gift!
Raleigh Denim jeans
When designers Victor Lytvinenko and Sarah Yarborough decided to start their own line of handmade jeans, they chose an unconventional place to launch a clothing line—downtown Raleigh. It's one of those unexpected things you find here, but Raleigh Denim is helping to make the city fashion-forward and a destination for true fashionistas. Everything they use at Raleigh Denim is from N.C., including the denim, thread, zippers and the numbered labels. Shop their downtown Raleigh store, Raleigh Denim Workshop, and gift a loved one their next favorite pair of jeans.
Carolina Popcorn Shoppe
The Menards own the Carolina Popcorn Shoppe, which has been popping flavorful corn in Raleigh since 2000. All of their recipes are original, and their many varieties are hand-blended using real creamery butter, brown sugar, fresh-roasted nuts, rich cheese blends and other superior ingredients. Want to gift something sweet? Pick up their the ever-popular kettle corn, birthday cake, chocolate caramel or cookies-n-cream flavors. How about something salty with a Carolina kick? Choose from salt-n-vinegar, bacon cheddar or Chicago-style popcorn.
Founded by "coffee's head bean," Larry Larson, Larry's Coffee works with farming partners to get beans with the deep, rich flavor profiles needed for their slow-roasting process. And you can find the coffee at their new downtown hot spot, 42 & Lawrence, also carrying cans of their nitro cold brew.
Oak City Coffee Roasters makes it a point to personally know the farmers who supply their beans, bringing the customer as close to the origin of the coffee as possible. Grab their canned nitro coffee, bags of their delicious coffee and more at their location in downtown Raleigh.
Their cold brew coffee was listed among 11 Excellent Cold Brew Coffees by Eater. Just a few of the many awesome places where you can get it: Videri Chocolate Factory, Yellow Dog Bread Company, The Mill in Fuquay-Varina, Wine Authorities and Devolve Moto.
Hail Mary Bloody Mary Mix
For health-conscious Blake Stewart, consuming all-natural products has always been a priority. His grandmother, Edna, was a Southern farmer who canned her own tomato juice, and Blake thought that would be the perfect base for his homemade Bloody Mary mix. After experimenting with a few different recipes, Hail Mary was born, an all-natural, gluten-free mix that is the perfect blend of fresh juiced tomatoes, peppers, horseradish root and high-quality spices. A few cool places to get it: Brew N Que in Cary, Bottle Mixx, DECO Raleigh and NOFO @ the Pig.
Bone Suckin' Sauce
The Ford's Foods enterprise started in 1946 when patriarch A.J. Ford began selling produce from the back of his truck. Generations later, the family created Bone Suckin' Sauce, which is a western N.C.-style barbecue sauce, a red sauce with a tomato-paste base. The sauce also uses honey and molasses to offer a sweeter taste than eastern N.C. sauces (vinegar-based) or S.C. sauces (mustard-based). A few fun places where you can get it: their store at the State Farmers Market, Raleigh, Logan's Trading Company, North Carolina Museum of History Shop and NOFO @ the Pig.
First Olive soaps
First Olive was started by a mother in Cary making natural products for her son who suffered from eczema. After successfully helping her son's skin condition and also getting great feedback from family and friends about the soaps, First Olive was born and now offers a variety of handmade soaps for everyone, with or without skin issues. Pick up soaps like coconut lime verbena, bamboo charcoal and more for unique gifts for loved ones. Where to get it: DECO Raleigh and Relish Cafe & Bar.
Sluice Hammocks
Give your friends the gift of relaxation, anywhere they go. Sluice Hammocks is named after the gold miner's sluice box, which has been used to separate gold from dirt since the early gold rushes. Founder Kemp Dunbar wants to do the same thing: "Let's sift out the distraction and give people a product that works really well and lasts forever." Where to get it: DECO Raleigh, The N.C. Hammock Company, Garden Supply Company in Cary and NOFO @ the Pig.
The list doesn't stop there. Though their products are not technically made right in Raleigh, Feelgoodz (flip flops) and Peter Millar (with their design headquarters and a store in Raleigh) are rooted here, and their products make great gifts!
Raleigh Denim photo: Ted Richardson


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Kathleen Marden is a well-known UFO abduction researcher, author and lecturer with 23 years experience in the field. She is MUFON's International Director of Abduction Research. For ten years Kathy volunteered as MUFON's Director of Field Investigator Training. In 2012, she was the recipient of MUFON's "Researcher of the Year" award.
She earned a B.A. degree in social work, with honors, from the University of New Hampshire in 1971, and participated in graduate studies in education while working as a teacher and education services coordinator. She is also a certified hypnotherapist.
Her interest in UFOs dates back to September 20, 1961, when her aunt, Betty Hill phoned her nearby home to report that she and Barney had encountered a flying saucer in New Hampshire's White Mountains. A primary witness to the evidence of the UFO encounter and the aftermath, Kathleen has intimate knowledge of the Hill's biographical histories, personalities, and the previously unpublished historical files pertaining to their sensational story.
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When I read about automation, which I do very often nowadays, I feel it's bringing another industrial revolution which will change everything in professional landscape beyond recognition all in a few years' time. Many of the existing roles across industries will be automated with technology replacing humans. Those that remain human-dependent will transform beyond recognition. Companies are reacting to it through adoption and adjustment. They are embracing automation on one hand and trying to figure out how best to use their existing workforce in this new emerging order. Neither is without its challenges.
Automation will invade roles of varied kinds across industries rendering most of them redundant. Is it possible to reskill/upskill everyone whose role will be made obsolete by automation? You can't reskill someone in anything you want; each resource has certain limitations defined by aptitude/education etc.
That leaves us with one question: what kind of roles are endangered? A short answer is roles involving tasks/activities that are simple and repetitive. But a bigger concern is how simple is simple and repetitive, repetitive. HDFC, for example, is automating loan-underwriting, an activity highly regarded in banking.
Additionally, in any role there are activities that are simple and repetitive – if you only automate those parts and leave the other parts, in a role, to be performed by humans, then you will leave employees partially underemployed leaving the organization to pay for their downtime neutralizing the cost benefit automation was expected to bring to the organization.
Among all industries facing this challenge, it is IT which is making the biggest noise – because automation may have caused disruption to other industries, but IT is faced with an existential threat: automation can throw its entire business model into disarray.
In its roughly two and half decades of existence, majority of the Indian IT industry's workforce has been involved in low-end volume oriented work outsourced from the West and very little or nothing in terms of innovation or research and development based work. Although this is particularly true when it comes to services, the product part of the industry is not much better. The Indian bellwethers, like Infosys, Wipro and TCS have subsisted on this outsourcing model for so long.
And as a result, the industry is infested with roles involving activities that are simple and repetitive. Skills to handle volume based work are lauded here and simple renovations are passed off as innovations. The industry has produced an army of workers who almost no nothing outside nuts and bolts and quick fixes required to keep an IT infrastructure going and have very little skills to survive outside this ecosystem.
The product part of IT is also threatened but in slightly different ways. Basic coding – the main stock in trade of the software companies – is one of the things that will be made obsolete by automation. Product/application consumption and maintenance habits are also changing. Applications residing on cloud is a point in case.
So where are we headed?
My guess is the behemoths will try to negotiate the storm by doing several things: offloading workforces, reskilling where possible, investing in technologies and acquiring new startups (attempting to monopolize innovation in the process). Startups that manage to survive the predatory attempts of the biggies and remain afloat will occupy a huge market space and they will be among equal employers in Indian IT (and also in other sectors). In short, they will script a new IT story. And given the rising protectionism in geopolitics, it mayn't be one of handling low end outsourced work from the US and Europe.
But every day when I read my fill of business news I feel we won't get there without considerable pain.


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All the files have names like "baked_tpIllumination_groundShape.png" or "baked_tpIllumination_hengepieceShape7.png". These filenames are generated by a pattern you set in the Render Settings for Turtle in Maya. By default, it's
- Code: Select all
where $p is the Pass (Diffuse, Specular, Ambient, Albedo, SSS, etc) and $s is the shape name. We're using the "Illumination" pass which is the sum of all the lighting components. If you check "Full Shading" it also includes the material and texture properties, or what is known optimistically as the "Beauty" pass.
In Panda, we're going to load the PNG file, find the appropriate NodePath to attach it to, create a new texture stage and apply the texture.
Exporting from Maya
The default Panda export settings should work. Make sure that "Keep all UV's" is checked - otherwise it will trim out UV sets that it doesn't think you're using.
Panda Code
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import direct.directbase.DirectStart #starts Panda
from pandac.PandaModules import * #basic Panda modules
from direct.showbase.DirectObject import DirectObject #for event handling
from direct.actor.Actor import Actor #for animated models
from direct.interval.IntervalGlobal import * #for compound intervals
from direct.task import Task #for update fuctions
import sys, math, os
class World(DirectObject):
def __init__(self):
self.level = loader.loadModel("henge")
def applyLightMaps(self):
lightmapFiles = os.listdir("lightmaps")
for f in lightmapFiles:
f2=os.path.splitext(f)[0] #remove the extension
shapename=f2.split("_")[-1] #split on _ and take the last one
transformName=shapename.replace("Shape","",1) #remove the word "Shape" to get the name of the transform node
print f
print transformName
obj = self.level.find("**/"+transformName)
print obj
if not obj.isEmpty():
tex=loader.loadTexture("lightmaps/" + f)
The only trickery to this is figuring out the name of the NodePath based on the filename. In Maya, all objects have two nodes - a Transform node and a Shape node. The Transform only holds transform data (position, rotation, etc) while the Shape node holds the actual geometry data, for example "hengepiece1" and "hengepieceShape1" or "pCube1" and "pCubeShape1". In Panda, the NodePath is equivalent to Maya's Transform, while a Node contains the Shape data. The setTexture() function is applied at the NodePath level, but the lightmap filenames all are based on the names of the Shape nodes in Maya, so we just have to do some string manipulation to get the name of the transform to feed into find() and setTexture().
For more on those functions, see the sections in the Panda Manual:
http://www.panda3d.org/manual/index.php ... cene_Graph[/url]
http://www.panda3d.org/manual/index.php ... troduction[/url]
Scene without lightmaps, and then with lightmaps


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Constructed Variables
Researcher constructed variables are available to contract holders by request. To obtain the following constructed variables please fill out and submit this request form.
Included in this file are a single race variable and a multiracial variable constructed from the Wave I race questions. The Race codebook describes the construction of these two variables.
Citation: Udry, J.R.; Li, R.M.; & Hendrickson-Smith, J. (2003). Health and Behavior Risks of Adolescents with Mixed-Race Identity. American Journal of Public Health, 93, 1865-1870.
This file contains four variables, utilizing five, seven, eight, and fourteen categories, to describe the household parental structure at Wave I. The Family Structure codebook provides additional details.
Citation: Harris, Kathleen Mullan. 1999. The Health Status and Risk Behavior of Adolescents in Immigrant Families. Pp. 286-347 in Donald J. Hernandez (ed.), Children of Immigrants: Health, Adjustment, and Public Assistance. Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press.