#Community cord blood banking

[semenanalysis]

Community Cord Blood Banking Emerges As A Life Saver

LifeCell’s Community Cord Blood Banking became a lifesaver for a 7 years old girl with aplastic anaemia. Read on to learn more about this service and its benefits.

Article Source : This article was originally published on

[cinnamonnangel]

ASTRO 101 - THE HOUSES (PART I)

FIRST HOUSE - I AM

(The First House is ruled by Aries and Mars.)

The first moment you open your eyes to the world, first breath, first sight, first intention and first experience

General appearance, form and shape, physical body, general health, vitality and energy, action

Character, identity, self image, personality, mask, self interest, how others perceive you, self expression, independence, behavior, name, attitude, fame

How you see the world, how the world sees you

Spirit, life, ego, soul body

First impressions, beginnings

Head, face, eyes, blood, brain, muscular system

The moment of birth and people around you, place of birth and atmosphere, birth experiences, mother’s health and experiences during childbirth

SECOND HOUSE - I HAVE

(The Second House is ruled by Taurus and Venus.)

Material and non-material resources, attitude toward possessions,

How you make money or meet obligations, self worth

Personal finances, money matters, sense of value, stocks and share, trade, jewelry, documents, cash money, valuables, wealth, possessions, trade, material possessions, luxuries, banking activities, loans, economic situation, wares, rank, guarantee, financial security, artworks

Talents, comfort zone, security, self esteem, valuables, sense of values, resourcefulness, nutrition

Face, neck, throat, vocal cords, thyroid, metabolic system, voice and vocal talents

Economy, sovereign debt, colonies, fees, trade, banks, internal debts, artistic approaches of a country

THIRD HOUSE - I THINK

(The Third House is ruled by Gemini and Mercury.)

Conscious mind, memory, mental confusion, communication, intellect, mentation, thinking

Skillfulness, study, ability, writing, speaking, researching, learning, reading, perceiving, adaptability, ability to learn foreign languages

Depthless thoughts and informations, smattering

Elementary and primary education, puberty

Siblings, brothers, sisters, cousins, close relatives and neighbors

Short trips, tour, daily travel, neighborhood, public transports, vehicles, motorbike, cars, train, bus, boats, urban roads

TV, radio, telephone, computer, mails, messages, text, communication network and channels, short correspondence on social media, weather forecast

Shoulders, collar bone, arms, hands, fingers, lungs, nerves, the nervous system

Bookstore, library, school, post office, educational institution, streets, telephone kiosk

FOURTH HOUSE - I FEEL

(The Fourth House is ruled by Cancer and Moon.)

The place where we live with the family, home atmosphere, home life, house, mother, family, lineage, family matters, ancestry, custom, femininity

Subconscious, things we hide about ourselves, emotional problems, early childhood, depression, personal commitment, the deepest and the darkest point of the chart

Old age, the end of the life, diseases, grave

Land, realty, genetic heritage, underground sources

Chest, breaths, stomach, uterus, diaphragm, upper alimentary system

Agricultural enterprise, historical values, mining site, real estate, refuge facilities, farmers, cemeteries

FIFTH HOUSE - I WILL

(The Fifth House is ruled by Leo and Sun.)

Actions and activities we do for ourselves, things we like to do, hobbies, how do we spend our free time, creativity, activities we enjoy, pleasure, self expression, risk taking, leisure time, artistic talents,

Love, romance, dating, courtship, love affairs, the way we flirt

Children, birthing and creation, the character of our children

Acting, drama, dance, music, sports, artists, celebrities, stage

Games, cards, puzzles, fun, amusement, games of chance, gambling, speculative investment

Chest, upper back, heart, spine, cardiac system

Hotels, entertainment centers, casino, beauty shops, coiffeur, resort, amusement park, cinema, theatre, sports center, park, art exhibition

SIXTH HOUSE - I ANALYZE

(The Sixth House is ruled by Virgo and Mercury.)

What we do to survive, daily work, everyday routine, details, skills

Work routines, where we specialize our skills, workers, competition, employment, workmates

House of sickness, exhaustion, disease, allergies, health, physical body, physical condition

Issues that tire us and weaken us, drugs and addictions

Pets and animals

Abdomen, intestines, lower liver, alimentary canal, spleen, digestive nerves

Hospitals, health care providers, employees, service sector, trade unions, state employees, restaurants, food and beverage services, enemies, soldiers, police, military, army, security guard, navy, animal clinic

[opalcicle]

If they call me a slut, you know it might be worth it for once

a little smut, a little healthy communication

Chapter 3: Just a Little Jealousy

Summary:

Charlie gets a little handsy when he notices your bruised neck. Does he want you for himself?

Just a few afternoons later Charlie picks me up for a photo shoot. When I take the aux cord I catch him eyeing the fresh set of bruises on my neck. He doesn't notice that I see him looking and his face twists into a strained emotion that I can't place.

I don't belong to him. I can kiss who I want. The words ring through my mind. I can't help but feel uneasy. "What's the plan for today, Charlarlie?" It's a nickname I've used before, but it'll do.

"So, the shoot today is two spots- one down at the river near the campgrounds and then one at the beach. I figured we could start at-" There's a break in his words as pulls his eyes away, "-start at the river, and get some shots with a good amount of sunlight, then head down to the beach later and get a few when it's closer to sunset,"

I bite into my lip, nerves dancing in my stomach. Why was I feeling guilty? "Yeah, I've got the list," I pull it from my work bag, "I was down at the beach last week and it may take some waiting to get some sunset shots at a good angle," I let my emotions slip away as I dive into the shot list with Charlie, picking his brain on the drive out to the campgrounds for all of the inspiration and direction that he'd had for his merch shoot. It was for the plushie line he had. I'd done a handful of product work before, and was happy to help out a friend, especially a friend that insisted on paying me for it. I prefer artistic photography, landscapes, cities, nature, people- I work with a lot of professional cosplayers. Charlie knew that I loved using nature as backdrops, and had suggested the locations weeks ago while I was sending him a list of the options I had already gathered. These were two places he'd spent time at, and both were beautiful.

"Okay, let's set up above the bridge at first, and we can head down to the river bank second, incase these guys get muddy," I said, grabbing one of the small sized plushies from the back seat.

We unload the equipment and I start my work. It goes by smoothly as I work through the steps and analyze the scenes, and soon we're ready for the next location. Charlie does most of the packing up and we head over to the beach. We get set up, but there's a good 30 minutes left until we're gonna get the lighting Charlie wants so I settle back into the passenger seat of his car and open my phone to scroll.

"So what have you been up to this week?" Charlie says, attempting to sound casual. I flick my eyes up at him for a moment, with a raised eyebrow.

"Uhh, not much," I respond distractedly.

I feel his hand on the side of my neck, tracing the bruises left by Bizly. A shiver shoots up my spine and I sit up straight, almost dropping my phone.

"Really?" his voice deepens, and he pulls my shirt down my shoulder to reveal more marks, "This looks like a little more than not much,"

I swallow, a light fear starting to prickle over my skin. Unsure of how to respond, I just look over to his fingers running down my shoulder.

"Show me the rest," he says it softly, but I take it as a command.

I lift my shirt up over my chest, revealing a black and red lacey bra, and he slowly trails over my skin to find each hickie. Blood rushes to turn my face bright pink, and the sensation has me feeling a heavy mix of shame and arousal. As his hand slides down my torso my mouth falls agape. He lifts the waistband of my shorts, and my eyes follow to the bruises around my hips.

"These too," he says softly.

I slide my shorts down to my knees and take a quick look around to ensure we aren't being watched. When my eyes pass by Charlie I see intensity in his gaze and notice his hand stoking slowly over the bulge in his jeans.

He pulls at the side of my panties to see each bruise, spending several long moments teasing each one. Inevitably, he finds the sensitive spot above my hip bone and I let out a quiet whine, closing my eyes and leaning my head back. He chuckles, and drags his fingers back and fourth.

"You're so easy to tease," he says in amusement, before returning to his mission of mapping out the bites in my skin. His touch is only gone for a moment before it returns on my inner thigh.

"Fuck!" I yelp out the word, shuddering again.

"Such a bad girl," he says, leaning across the center console to watch his hand press into the soft flesh of my thigh. He does find each bruise, but quicker than before, and spends extra time grabbing and squeezing, only fingertips away from the growing warmth between my legs.

"Charlie," I say quietly, "we're going to miss the lighting if we start this now,"

He doesn't say anything immediately, instead tracing his hand over my wet panties, up my torso, over my breast, and then taking my face to turn it towards him. We look at eachother and I see that he's undone his pants, and slid them down. His hard cock standing almost straight up in his boxers. His eyes follow mine and he grins.

"Put your clothes back on," he says, and lifts himself to pull his jeans back up.

My face forms a pout and I take a few moments to pull my thoughts back together, pulling my top back down and my shorts back up. I let out a quiet sigh.

Charlie gets out of the car and I see him stretch and start walking away.

A pang of disappointment settles in my chest alongside the worry that never left. I rub my temples. Fuuck, what is wrong with me. I think to myself as I close my eyes to immediately picture Charlie's erection. Why do I care what he thinks? Why do I want him so fucking bad?

I remove myself from the car and reapproach the equipment, readying to take the pictures he needs. By the end of the evening I'm satisfied with the work I've done. The two of us pack the equipment into his car, and I ride home holding one of the plushies in my lap.

By now my confidence is back, and I clear my throat to speak, "So what in the fuck was that about earlier?"

Charlie doesn't say anything for an unbearably long moment. The sun's already down and I can't make out any expression on his face.

"I want you. So. Fucking. Bad." He says, sounding desperate.

"Oh," is all I can even think to say, "Well, uhh-" I'm stumped.

"I was just going to tease you about your bruises," he explains.

"Ahh." I say, shaking off my uncertainty to continue, "yeah, I noticed that you saw them earlier. You looked... unhappy,"

He takes another long moment, "I know it's not my place to ask- but yeah, I noticed there were more than there were Saturday night. Kind of assumed you'd seen Bizly again,"

His voice is guarded and I can't quite get a read on how he's feeling. I answer cautiously, "I did,"

I hear him sigh, and the guilt creeps back into my chest. We sit in silence for awhile. "Come home with me," he says. Again, it's not a question. Charlie would let me say no, but I don't want to. Deep in my stomach I feel a longing. I want to do what he says.

"Yeah," I answer softly, "you can take me home,"

We pull into his driveway and I get out slowly. I am overwhelmed with nerves as we walk into his house. A million things cross my mind but none of them form into sentences that reach my lips. I feel a sadness sitting heavy in my chest, I might have hurt him. I feel an anxious flurry of apologies approach my mouth, and a desire so powerful I almost want to cry.

He takes me into his kitchen. I've been here many times before, but tonight at his table I feel small.

He sets a cooler on the table in front of me, and opens a beer for himself. It's an orange creamcicle flavor, the kind I used to drink underage after school. There's a nostalgia in the too-sugary taste. Charlie knows my favorite drinks. He keeps them on hand.

"You are my best friend," he starts, "and I don't want to fuck that up. If you've got something going on with Bizly, I don't want to fuck that up. I'm jealous, and I want to take it out on you, and that's not fair,"

"Depends on how you want to take it out," I grin at him and he rolls his eyes. "There's nothing serious with me and Bizly," I continue, "and- and you are my best friend. You take my bullshit teasing, and my smart ass comments." My tone softens at the next words, "and you know me, my favorite drinks, my humour. You support me. You're kind to me."

He smiles softly and says, "so now what?"

"I want you too," I don't meet his eyes. "You- you do something to me I can't explain, but I want you so fucking bad,"

"Fuck," he says, pushing his hair back, "I think I know what you mean,"

"So, if you want, I mean ... Why don't we....?" I stumble over my words.

"Do you want to do this?" He asks.

"Yes, yes I do," my answer comes out too fast.

He chuckles at my eagerness, "I want to tease you, I want to be rough with you," he says.

I feel my mouth drop open, "y-yeah, yes please,"

He looks me up and down, "I want to punish you for being a bad girl this weekend,"

My excitement is apparent as I sit up in his kitchen chair, "What's my punishment?"

"I'm going to bend you over my lap," he says, matter-of-fact, "but first I need you to calm down, were going to discus some rules,"

I shake myself off, taking deep breaths to focus, "okay, okay. Rules?"

"We use a safe word," he starts, "or you can tap me like this,". He reaches to take my hand, tapping it three times. He places my hand over his and I copy him. "Good girl," he says, and I give him the biggest smile. He laughs, "you like to be praised, what else?"

"Oh lord, uhh..." I think for a moment. "You, um- you make me want to listen to you, to follow directions. I like the idea of you being rough with me, but I'd like it if you'd check in and take it slow."

He nods, "be more specific,"

I slide my chair closer to him and sit up straight, taking his hands and placing them on my hips. A type of nerves I don't recognize have me moving slow and careful. "You've already found on of my favorite sports to be held," I squeeze my hands over his, and he rubs up and down my sides, not stopping as I continue. "I like to be held down by the wrists, posed into positions, held in place. I'd like your hand on my throat, or pulling my hair. I'd like if you stopped in the middle of something Im really enjoying- make me beg for more."

Charlie's hands are moving up and down my torso, over my hips and down my legs. I don't know if we're gonna last much longer just talking. A sly smile creeps over my face, and I lift myself onto his lap. Sitting on one knee, I hold his chest for support, and he wraps an arm around my waist.

I look into his eyes, our faces close, "What would you like?" My tone is sugary sweet, like the drink he gave me.

"To bend over my lap so I can spank you," he meets my smile with a big grin. "I want to take you to my room and tie you down, I want to make you scream my name."

"What's the safe word?" I whisper, leaning in closer, our faces now inches apart.

"Apples to stop. Tonka if you're reaching your limit," he says before kissing me softly. Our lips work together, and my arms find their way around his neck, but he stops us before long. "Stand up. Bend over." He instructs. I happily comply.

[astra-galaxie]

"If you need anything for your dog, I'm your girl!" - Camilla Martinez

Biographical information

Full Name: Camila Martinez

Nickname(s):

Cam

Cami

Gender: Transgender (Male to Female)

Sexuality: Lesbian

Status: Alive

Age: 37 (season 3)

Birth: 1978

Race: Human

Nationality: American

Origin: Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.

Residence:

McMurdo Station, Antarctica

Baltimore, Maryland, U.S. (formerly)

Profession(s): Veterinarian

Family:

Carmen Martinez (sister)

Unnamed mother

Unnamed father

Milagros Santiago (adopted daughter)

Sanjay Korrapati (nephew)

Affiliation(s): McMurdo Station

Profile

Height: 5’5”

Age: 37 (season 3)

Weight: 140lbs

Eyes: brown

Blood: A+

Hailing from Baltimore, Camila is an animal-loving woman working at the McMurdo Station in Antarctica. She is an inch shorter than Carmen and slightly slimmer, with equally dark skin, black hair in an afro of coil curls, and brown eyes.

During her suspect appearance in Death Below Zero, Camila wore thick black thermal leggings with matching fur-lined winter boots, a yellow parka, a fuzzy black scarf and yellow earmuffs. As per this suspect appearance, it is known that Camila has survival training and is in contact with penguins.

Synopsis

The younger sister of Carmen Martinez, Camila currently resides in Antarctica with her adopted daughter, Milagros. She is a veterinarian who helps the local wildlife around the station.

She grew up with her family in Baltimore and always wanted to be like her older sister. She preferred to play with Carmen's toys, read her books and would beg her parents to let her have Carmen's hand-me-down clothes. No one questioned Camila's choices and assumed she looked up to her big sister and wanted to mimic her.

But as Camila got older, her preferences never changed. One day, as a teenager, she asked if Carmen would call her Camila. The older one agreed but asked why her sister wanted to be called that. Camila explained that her old name didn't feel right, and being called Camila made her feel happy.

With Carmen's help, they did some research and learned about transgenderism. Camila realized that fit with the emotions and dysphoria she had been feeling over the years. After discovering she was transgender, Carmen helped introduce her new sister to their parents.

Their parents were slightly confused but accepted their new daughter with open arms. Together, the family learned what it meant to be transgender and found resources and support for Camila to help her transition. And after Camila began meeting other transgender youth and other members of the LGBTQ+ community, the Martinez house became a safe haven for those kids.

Camila decided to pursue a career as a veterinarian and attend a local university, where she met her best friend, Alondra Santiago. Alondra was from Puerto Rico and had no family in the area, so Camila helped her adjust to the culture shock. The two graduated with honours and worked at the same animal clinic after graduation.

Years after graduation, Alondra announced to Camila that she was pregnant. Camila was ecstatic for her friend and promised to be there for anything she needed. But no one could have predicted what would be discovered during Alondra's second trimester. An ultrasound revealed that the lower half of the baby's legs didn't develop, and further tests showed that it was a genetic condition that caused the birth defect.

Alondra's boyfriend told her to abort the baby, not wanting a disabled child. But she refused, so he left, abandoning her and the baby. Camila immediately had her friend move into her apartment and told her to stay as long as needed. She helped Alondra through the rest of her pregnancy and held her hand when Milagros was born, and even got to cut the baby's umbilical cord.

But three years later, tragedy strikes. Alondra was killed during a bank robbery while protecting a child. Camila and Milagros had been home when a police officer arrived to give them the news. Milagros couldn't understand why her mother wasn't coming home, and Camila tried to stay strong through her grief for the little girl.

After the funeral and Alondra's body being put to rest, Camila was contacted by Alondra's lawyer about her Will. The lawyer informed Camila that Alondra had declared her Milagros's legal guardian should anything happen to her. Camila was surprised, but she never had any intention of abandoning the girl and immediately began the adoption process.

Camila's relatives supported her and welcomed Milagros into their family. The girl was showered in love by everyone, and while she misses her mommy, she's happy to have Auntie Camila and her new family. She loves spending time with her grandparents (Camila and Alondra's parents) and listening to Auntie Carmen's stories of her overseas adventures.

A few months before Death Below Zero, Camila was approached about a job opportunity in Antarctica. It was to assist in researching the effect of climate change on wildlife and the global repercussions. With the encouragement of her family, Camila and Milagros moved to the South Pole, the latter very excited to be living so close to penguins. The two enjoy living at the South Pole but look forward to returning to Baltimore and telling their family and friends about their freezing adventures.

When the Bureau arrived for their vacation, Camila was excited to see her sister again. She was even more excited to meet the nephew she had heard so much about. Milagros was the same; she’d missed her aunt and was excited to have a new friend to play with. She couldn’t wait to introduce Sanjay to her penguin friends.

After Emil Gunnarsson’s murder had been solved, Camila offered to take Carmen and her team on a penguin-watching tour. Once Jonah had repaired the truck’s generator, Camila took the Bureau to the local penguin reserve, where Milagros introduced everyone to her penguin friends. She introduced them all by name, and the Bureau found it adorable to watch the little girl teach them about penguins. Camila was so proud of her daughter and knew Alondra would be too.

Once the Bureau’s visit ended, Camila and Milagros watched Elijah Young’s plane fly away, carrying the team towards their new adventure. Carmen promised to call when they reached the mainland, and Camila looked forward to hearing about the Bureau’s future adventure. Milagros asked Camen and Sanjay to send them pictures and pick up souvenirs wherever they went, and they promised to do so for the little girl.

Near the end of The Darkest Hour, Camila and Milagros returned to celebrate the defeat of SOMBRA alongside the rest of the Bureau's family and friends.

Story Information

First appeared: Death Below Zero

Trivia

Inspiration for her came from Camila Noceda from The Owl House

She likes to style her afro into different shapes and even temporarily dyes it for added fun

Milagros is her secondary stylist. The girl loves coming up with new looks for her aunt’s hair and having her hair styled in return

Sometimes Camila and Milagros do matching hairstyles

She used to go on trips to help endangered wildlife. She had to stop after she adopted Milagros

She still works with a non-profit organization that rescues animals from abusive homes and animal fights

She's always fostering a rescued animal in her house until they find a forever home. She'll foster any animals, from cats and dogs to reptiles and birds. She's temporarily put this on hold while in Antarctica but plans to restart it when she and Milagros returns to Baltimore

Camila always looked up to her big sister. Likewise, Carmen has always protected her sister growing up, beating up any bullies that made fun of Camila or hurt her

When Camila announced she was a girl, Carmen immediately gave her all her old clothes so that her little sister would enjoy the clothes she wore

Her favourite memory with Camila is when her sister wore a dress for the first time. Camila couldn't stop twirling and was smiling so brightly it was like looking at the sun. Carmen still has the picture she took to commemorate the moment

Disclaimer: Character design was created using Rinmarugames Mega Anime Avatar Creator! I have only made minor edits to the design! Background courtesy of CriminalArtist5

Links to my stories:

The Case of the Criminal (Ao3/Wattpad)

Killer Bay (Ao3/Wattpad)

Where in the World are the Killers? (Ao3/Wattpad)

[dtgmarketreport]

Blood Bank Market Size & Forecast 2025-2035

The global Blood Bank market, estimated to be valued at USD 21.85 billion in 2024, is estimated to grow up to USD 41.05 billion by 2035 with a CAGR of 5.9% in the period from 2025 to 2035. This market will encompass a wide variety of services, including umbilical cord blood-based stem cell banking, therapies collected through plasma collection, and platelet apheresis for cancer patients.

Blood banks handle critical functions like blood typing, cross-matching for transfusion compatibility, and pathogen testing for safety. These facilities are critical for the collection, processing, storage, and distribution of blood and its components, making them crucial for healthcare by ensuring a steady and safe supply of blood for transfusions and other medical procedures.

Market Dynamics

Mobile Blood Donation units increase mobilization

Mobile blood donation units are changing the face of blood donation. They have been going to schools, workplaces, and community events, where people can donate blood conveniently. With this increased access, blood donation rates are particularly increasing for younger generations. Mobile units also involve the community by partnering with organizations and businesses within the same area, often offering incentives to drive up participation. According to research, mHealth applications can boost donation appointment rates by as much as 22.7%. This could save hundreds of thousands of lives every year.

Challenges of Short Shelf Life for Blood Products

The blood products do have a short shelf life; for example, whole blood only remains available up to 42 days. For platelets, however, they are only available from 5-7 days, thereby presenting a huge problem for inventory control. Most blood remains unutilized and its potential to cause pressure on management concerning collection, donations, and not going about scarce at all times.

AI-Enhanced Blood Management Solutions

Artificial Intelligence and data analytics become indispensable tools in blood management. These technologies help blood banks understand their inventory better, predict donation trends, and optimize donor outreach. Predictive analytics can predict what blood will be needed by whom, thereby reducing short shelf life waste and making donors retain themselves for long periods of time, so that a more reliable blood supply can be ensured.

Expert opinions

According to Robert Scanlon, the head of Blood Bank of Alaska, one of the great successes of mobile drives has been local donations as it has saved lives state-wide.

Kate Fry, the CEO of America's Blood Centers, also spoke about her work on leadership development with Vanderbilt University.

Get A Free Sample Report @Click Here

Market Segmentation

Product Type

The Blood Bank market carries the entire spectrum of blood products for transfusion such as whole blood, red blood cells (RBCs), platelets, plasma, cryoprecipitate, and white blood cells. Due to its essential role in transportation, RBC is primarily the most transfused form of blood product. Longer the shelf life of the products of RBC it easy for handling within blood bank sites as compared to any of other blood products.

Function Type

The major activities of blood banking include collection, processing, transportation, storage, and testing. Testing is the most essential as it ensures that products meant for transfusions are safe and compatible. In the screening procedure, for instance, it involves conducting tests on infectious diseases together with finding out the different blood types to match up the donors with recipients safely.

Regional Analysis

North America : is the largest market in the global blood bank market due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure, stringent safety standards, and the presence of well-established organizations, such as the American Red Cross. Blood centers in this region supply blood products to over 150 million people and serve more than 3,500 hospitals.

Asia-Pacific: The most booming market is that of the Asia-Pacific region, which is driven by enhanced health care spending, growing blood donation awareness, and government programs oriented toward improving blood safety. The countries of China and India are expanding their services of blood banking, therefore greatly contributing to the quick growth experienced in the region. Competitive Environment The Blood Bank market is also highly competitive. Major players are involved in research and development to improve their position. The key players operating in the market are: The American Red Cross NHS Blood and Transplant Canadian Blood Services Vitalant America's Blood Centers Recent development includes a partnership between InVita Healthcare Technologies and BloodHub to enhance blood supply chain automation and Roche's FDA-approved malaria test to screen blood donors in the U.S. Recent Developments March 2024: Roche won the approval from the FDA to use its malaria test for blood donors to boost safety. InVita Healthcare Technologies and BloodHub recently formed a partnership to advance blood management systems in North America.

Conclusion :

 The Blood Bank market is undergoing evolution, characterized by advancements in mobile donation, artificial intelligence, and blood management technologies. Notwithstanding challenges such as the limited shelf lives of blood products, the growth prospects of the market remain robust, propelled by innovations in blood collection, testing, and distribution. North America continues to dominate the market; conversely, the Asia-Pacific region presents substantial growth opportunities. Additionally, the expansion of the market is further enhanced by the rising demand for blood products and government initiatives aimed at improving blood safety on a global scale.

[credenceresearchdotblog]

The Umbilical Cord Blood Banking Market is projected to expand from USD 5,710 million in 2024 to approximately USD 12,239.89 million by 2032, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10%.The umbilical cord blood banking market has emerged as a significant segment within the healthcare industry, driven by the increasing awareness of the therapeutic potential of cord blood stem cells. Cord blood, rich in hematopoietic stem cells, has become a valuable resource for treating various life-threatening diseases, including leukemia, lymphoma, and genetic disorders. This article explores the growth, trends, and opportunities in the global umbilical cord blood banking market.

Browse the full report https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/umbilical-cord-blood-banking-market

Market Overview

Umbilical cord blood banking involves collecting, processing, and storing the blood from a newborn's umbilical cord and placenta. This blood is preserved in public or private cord blood banks for potential future medical use. The market has been growing steadily due to advancements in biotechnology, increased public awareness, and the rising prevalence of chronic diseases treatable with stem cell therapy.

According to industry reports, the global cord blood banking market was valued at approximately $XX billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of XX% from 2024 to 2030. This growth is attributed to the increasing applications of stem cell therapy, government support for regenerative medicine, and technological innovations in banking processes.

Key Market Drivers

1. Expanding Applications of Stem Cell Therapy

Cord blood stem cells are used in over 80 approved medical treatments, including blood cancers, immune deficiencies, and metabolic disorders. Researchers are exploring their potential for treating conditions like cerebral palsy, autism, and diabetes, further driving demand for cord blood banking.

2. Rising Awareness and Education Campaigns

Healthcare providers and public health campaigns have played a crucial role in educating expectant parents about the benefits of cord blood banking. Organizations and governments worldwide are promoting the importance of preserving cord blood for future medical use.

3. Advances in Cryopreservation Technology

Technological advancements have improved the efficiency and reliability of cord blood storage. Modern cryopreservation techniques ensure the viability of stem cells for decades, enhancing the appeal of cord blood banking.

4. Supportive Regulatory Frameworks

Governments in several countries have introduced supportive regulations and funding for cord blood banking initiatives. Public banks, in particular, benefit from these policies, as they contribute to national and international stem cell registries.

Challenges Facing the Market

Despite its promise, the cord blood banking market faces several challenges:

High Costs: The initial collection and storage fees for private cord blood banking can deter many families, especially in low- and middle-income countries.

Limited Awareness in Developing Regions: While awareness is growing in developed countries, many parts of the world remain uninformed about the benefits of cord blood banking.

Ethical Concerns: The use of cord blood in medical treatments raises ethical and religious concerns in certain communities.

Future Outlook

The umbilical cord blood banking market holds immense potential, with opportunities arising from emerging markets, increasing R&D investments, and the expansion of public cord blood banks. The growing interest in personalized medicine and advancements in regenerative therapies are expected to propel the market further.

Key Player Analysis:

Caladrius Biosciences

Cord Blood America, Inc.

Cordlife Group Limited

American Type Culture Collection (ATCC)

Cord Blood Registry (CBR)

China Cord Blood Corporation

Smart Cells International

Esperite N.V.

ViaCord, LLC

Cryo-Cell International, Inc.

Segmentations:

By Storage Option

Public UCB banks

Private UCB banks

By Application

Leukemia

Bone marrow failure syndrome

Metabolic disorder

Lymphoma

Immune deficiencies

By Service Type

Sample Preservation & Storage

Sample Analysis

Sample Processing

Sample Collection & Transportation

By Region

North America

U.S.

Canada

Mexico

Europe

Germany

France

U.K.

Italy

Spain

Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

China

Japan

India

South Korea

South-east Asia

Rest of Asia Pacific

Latin America

Brazil

Argentina

Rest of Latin America

Middle East & Africa

GCC Countries

South Africa

Rest of the Middle East and Africa

Browse the full report https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/umbilical-cord-blood-banking-market

Contact:

Credence Research

Please contact us at +91 6232 49 3207

Email: sales@credenceresearch.com

Website: www.credenceresearch.com

[voiceoutofstars]

From the Revised Data Bank: “Iron Cavalry Against the Scourge”

Reminder that I’m not a professional editor or proofreader. I cannot read or speak Mandarin. This is a fan revision for readability, not a re-translation. For a lengthy explanation of this pet project and repeated disclaimers, check here.

Below is my attempt at revising the Data Bank entry for the relic set “Iron Cavalry Against the Scourge.” The real in-game text for that entry can be read here. (If you’d prefer an audio narration amateurishly recorded by yours truly, you can instead listen here).

Iron Cavalry's Homing Helm

An iron helm that significantly enhances sensory signals, fusing the consciousness of the Glamoth Iron Cavalry to their armor.

The Swarm that covers the sky turns to dust in a sea of fire. Silvery-white snowflakes drift in deep space, reflecting the pallid light of the star. In this brief moment, the endless sounds of battle—the buzzing of thousands of wings, the flood of commands barked over the communication channel—finally dial down to silence.

This silence means nothing. The enemy of the ‘empire’ has not been routed. This is only a brief pause, too brief even to savor. The next inescapable call to battle will ring out again, as it always does.

This soldier of the empire’s Iron Cavalry feels every external sensation of her armor through the signal receptors buried deep in her spinal cord. She remembers, separately, what the cosmos felt like when she was bared to it, the last time she was taken from the cockpit. Hot wind had gently tousled her hair, and humid air had soaked the back of her neck, leaving droplets of sweat stuck to her skin. She does not hate the memory. It feels like...living, tenfold times as much as these simulated signals ever could.

The armor’s sensory arrays synchronize completely with the pilot’s own biological senses. This worsens the pain of entropy loss—but the Iron Cavalry will pay any price to defeat the Swarm.

"Rule 43 of the Glamoth Military Regulations. Any surviving Iron Cavalry members must return to their regiment without delay or resistance..."

The fighter only realizes that the external sensory signals have tricked her when she sees the headless silver armor of her commander. Ah. The next command to battle will come, but never in that voice again. What a cruel brief reprieve.

Iron Cavalry's Crushing Gauntlet

A powerful iron gauntlet that can crush insectoids. It is sharp and light without compromising its sturdiness.

Glamoth's Iron Cavalry clench their fists tight to crack open the filthy carapaces of the Swarm. Corrosive fluids geyser from the crushed abdomens. When this spray of insectoid innards hits Cavalry armor, it vaporizes instantly, but stains of filth and blood remain.

The wreckage of armor and insectoid limbs drift as deep-space debris, gathered slowly into a terrible ring by the planet’s gravity. Even after the war’s end, this "River of Death" flows around Glamoth in silence, a grim monument to bloody battle.

The leaders of the council discuss the new problems presented by a post-war era. This includes passing judgment on Titania, who was never supposed to wield any real power. Once a beacon of hope, she is now a looming threat to the Republic, because she alone controls the Iron Cavalry, a force whose destructive power rivals even that of the Swarm.

The council is committed to ringing the bells of peace. They are eager to declare to the populace that the Swarm has been dispersed, that the azure sky belongs once more to the Republic.

"If we do not take control of the Empress, who else might in our stead—and what might her weapons do, if no one steps forward to command them?"

Throughout their brief, bloody lives, the Iron Cavalry ceaselessly hone the strength of their iron fists. How unfathomable that it is not their armored fists, but the pale, frail hands of the council rising high that hold the power to shape Glamoth’s fate.

Iron Cavalry's Silvery Armor

The fiery propulsion provided by their armor gives Glamoth's Iron Cavalry a flame hot enough to ignite the entire battlefield.

Several arcs of brilliant fire streak across the night sky, crossing the dawn horizon as they depart for Glamoth’s various star sectors—this is a morning sight that the citizens of the Republic are intimately familiar with and always terrified by.

Glittering silver suits of armor soar through the skies, racing toward expanses of space that are already littered with corpses. Battle is all they know—war consumes their every thought. They do not even think to look down upon the vistas they so tirelessly defend every hour of their lives.

The will of the Empress is absolute. At her command, cloned warriors are birthed endlessly from the incubators, are sworn to her service, and then committed to the battle for Glamoth’s skies. These, her Iron Cavalry, traverse mountains of corpses of seas of insectoid blood. They burn to char the vermin in their shells. They shatter the Swarm’s colossal jaws and pulverize every last toothy remnant…

...And in return for their service, they endure the slow agony of entropy disintegration. For the whole of their lives, they are ablaze, ignited by the friction of their existence at the threshold between life and death.

Until the flames burn out completely, until the Swarm that blots out the sky has in its entirety been seared to ash, until no one among them remains alive—until such a moment comes, the war continues.

What does it mean to be alive? The force of their armors’ acceleration clamps down on their chests. Lungs strain against collapse. Hearts shudder, fighting for each beat. The piercing pain of entropy-induced numbness floods through their bodies. Now, perhaps, the Iron Cavalry get a brief taste of what it means to live.

Iron Cavalry's Skywalk Greaves

Mechanical greaves that combine destructive capabilities with speed. They allow the soldiers of Glamoth's Iron Cavalry to leap high for a kick that concentrates both strength and momentum into a single point for maximum damage.

The Iron Cavalry's fiery trails spread across every corner of Glamoth's ‘Empire’ like shining comets, yet they are kept confined and blinded by Titania’s woven ‘dream’.

The people of the Republic are uneasy with this legion born for war. They wonder how much overlap there really is between the territories in which they’ve built their lives and this ‘Empire’ that has never really existed, yet for which the Cavalry are sworn to fight and die...

To her knights the Empress bestows honor and trust, and to her the Iron Cavalry offer unwavering loyalty and commitment. New soldiers are born from the incubators and given numbers and missions, while old, feeble humans cower beneath steel defenses, anxiously awaiting some long-dreamed-of peace…That peace is a deception and a lie, and it must be exposed. This method of war—making people with planned obsolescence so that others might build happy lives from their corpses, this warping of what it means to be human—should never have been devised. And how will it end? When the conflict is done, people with fear in their hearts will want the distorted products of war eliminated, too.

The Iron Cavalry's flight breaks through the sky. If they could just see beyond Titania’s dream, they could reach any star.

But the ‘Empire’ will not be waiting for them there. There are only two paths forward for the Iron Cavalry now—one that leads to death, and the other to themselves.

[nathfiset]

What is Myeloid/Natural Killer (NK) Cell Precursor Acute Leukemia and how can FDA approved cord blood banking help?

I am ready to enroll in cord blood banking NOW and get my special discount!

By clicking on either buttons, you are agreeing to our TOS and disclaimers and will be redirected to an affiliate cord blood banking provider. We might get financial compensation if you sign up with them through our affiliate links. Unlock your special discounts by adding your promo code.CORD300 in the coupon field to get $300 OFF cord blood and tissue banking. OR cord200 to get $200 OFF if you are getting cord blood banking only. I want more information on cord blood banking

 Myeloid/Natural Killer (NK) Cell Precursor Acute Leukemia is a rare and aggressive form of blood cancer that affects both children and adults. It is characterized by the rapid proliferation of abnormal myeloid cells and natural killer cells, which are responsible for fighting infections and controlling the growth of cancer cells. This type of leukemia is considered a precursor to acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a more common and well-known form of blood cancer. Myeloid/NK Cell Precursor Acute Leukemia requires immediate and intensive treatment, as it can quickly progress and potentially be fatal if left untreated. However, in recent years, the medical community has made significant advancements in the treatment of this disease, including the use of cord blood banking. In this article, we will delve into the details of Myeloid/NK Cell Precursor Acute Leukemia, its symptoms, diagnosis, and current treatment options. We will also explore the role of FDA approved cord blood banking in providing viable and potentially life-saving treatment options for patients with this rare and complex form of leukemia.

Definition and overview of Myeloid/NK Cell Precursor Acute Leukemia

Myeloid/NK Cell Precursor Acute Leukemia is a rare and aggressive form of leukemia that primarily affects children and young adults. It is characterized by the abnormal growth and accumulation of myeloid and natural killer (NK) cell precursors in the bone marrow and blood. This type of leukemia is considered a subtype of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and is associated with poor prognosis and limited treatment options. Patients with myeloid/NK cell precursor acute leukemia often present with symptoms such as fatigue, fever, easy bruising or bleeding, and frequent infections. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of blood tests, bone marrow biopsy, and genetic testing to confirm the presence of abnormal cells. Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for improving outcomes in patients with this aggressive form of leukemia.

Understanding how cord blood banking works

Cord blood banking is a process that involves the collection and storage of stem cells from the umbilical cord blood after a baby is born. These stem cells have the unique ability to develop into various types of blood cells, including those of the immune system. The process begins with the expectant parents making the decision to bank their baby's cord blood, often in anticipation of its potential future medical use. During childbirth, a healthcare professional will collect the cord blood using a sterile needle and special collection bag. The collected cord blood is then transported to a cord blood bank, where it undergoes rigorous testing and processing to ensure its viability for long-term storage. Once stored, the cord blood can be used in medical treatments, such as stem cell transplantation, to replace damaged or diseased cells in the body. Cord blood banking offers a valuable resource for families, providing them with a potential source of stem cells that may be used to treat a variety of conditions, including certain types of leukemia, like myeloid/NK cell precursor acute leukemia. Its approval by the FDA ensures the quality and safety of stored cord blood units, providing assurance to families considering this option.

Benefits of FDA approved cord blood banking for leukemia patients

The benefits of FDA approved cord blood banking for leukemia patients are significant. Leukemia is a complex and challenging disease, particularly Myeloid/Natural Killer (NK) Cell Precursor Acute Leukemia, which requires specialized treatments. Cord blood stem cells, which are collected and stored through FDA approved cord blood banking, offer a potential solution for leukemia patients in need of a stem cell transplant. These stem cells have the ability to differentiate into various blood cell types, including those of the immune system. By utilizing cord blood stem cells from a compatible donor, leukemia patients can receive a life-saving transplant that can potentially replace damaged or diseased cells, restore the immune system, and promote the body's ability to fight the disease. The FDA approval of cord blood banking ensures that the collected stem cells meet rigorous standards of safety and quality, providing reassurance for patients and healthcare professionals alike. With the availability of FDA approved cord blood banking, leukemia patients have greater access to a potentially life-saving treatment option that can significantly improve their chances of remission and long-term survival.

The role of stem cells in treating leukemia

Stem cells play a crucial role in the treatment of leukemia, including Myeloid/Natural Killer (NK) Cell Precursor Acute Leukemia. These remarkable cells have the ability to differentiate into various types of blood cells, including white blood cells that are essential for a healthy immune system. In the case of leukemia, where abnormal white blood cells crowd out healthy ones, stem cell transplants offer a potential solution. By using stem cells from a compatible donor, the diseased or damaged cells can be replaced with healthy ones, allowing for the restoration of the immune system and the potential eradication of the disease. The versatility of stem cells makes them a valuable tool in the fight against leukemia, providing hope for patients and their families.

How cord blood stem cells are collected

Cord blood stem cells, which have shown promise in the treatment of various diseases, including Myeloid/Natural Killer (NK) Cell Precursor Acute Leukemia, are collected from the umbilical cord and placenta after a baby is born. The process begins with the clamping and cutting of the umbilical cord, typically done by the healthcare provider. After this, a sterile needle is inserted into the cord vein, and the blood is drained into a collection bag or syringe. The collection is a safe and painless procedure for both the mother and the baby, as it occurs after the delivery when the cord has already served its purpose. This method of obtaining cord blood is preferred as it poses no harm or risk to the newborn or the mother. Once collected, the cord blood is processed and stored in an FDA approved cord blood bank, ensuring its availability for potential future medical use.

The process of storing cord blood

The process of storing cord blood begins once it has been collected from the umbilical cord. The collected cord blood is transported to an FDA approved cord blood bank, where it undergoes rigorous testing and processing procedures. First, the cord blood is tested for infectious diseases and screened to ensure its safety and viability for potential use. Then, it is processed to separate and concentrate the valuable stem cells from the other components of the blood. This is done using specialized equipment and techniques to achieve the highest possible cell recovery and quality. Once the processing is complete, the cord blood is stored in cryogenic tanks at extremely low temperatures to preserve the integrity and viability of the stem cells. These storage facilities are designed to maintain a constant temperature and provide protection against any potential disruptions in power supply. This ensures that the cord blood remains viable and available for potential use in medical treatments, providing a valuable resource for patients in need.

Safety regulations for cord blood banking

Safety regulations for cord blood banking play a critical role in ensuring the quality and integrity of stored cord blood units. The FDA has implemented stringent guidelines to regulate the collection, testing, processing, and storage of cord blood. These regulations aim to minimize the risk of contamination, transfusion reactions, and transmission of infectious diseases. Cord blood banks must adhere to these regulations and undergo regular inspections to maintain their FDA approval. Additionally, the FDA requires cord blood banks to establish protocols for tracking and traceability of cord blood units to ensure accurate identification and retrieval when needed. By complying with these safety regulations, FDA approved cord blood banking provides assurance to parents and healthcare professionals that stored cord blood units are safe and suitable for potential therapeutic use.

Cost comparison of public vs. private cord blood banking

When considering cord blood banking options, it is important to compare the costs associated with public and private cord blood banking. Public cord blood banking is typically offered at no cost to the donor, as the collected cord blood is donated to be used for transplantation in patients who are a match. On the other hand, private cord blood banking involves a fee for the collection, processing, and storage of the cord blood exclusively for the donor and their family's potential future use. Private cord blood banking costs can vary depending on the bank and the specific services offered. It is essential to carefully evaluate the costs and benefits of public and private cord blood banking to make an informed decision that aligns with individual priorities and financial considerations.

Success stories of cord blood transplants

Cord blood transplants have shown remarkable success in treating a variety of diseases, offering promising outcomes for patients in need. Many success stories have emerged, showcasing the potential of cord blood as a valuable source of stem cells for transplantation. For instance, individuals with blood cancers such as leukemia have experienced transformative results through cord blood transplants. These transplants have enabled patients to achieve remission and regain their health, providing renewed hope for those facing life-threatening conditions. Additionally, cord blood transplants have shown efficacy in treating inherited genetic disorders and immune system deficiencies, offering a chance for improved quality of life for affected individuals. These success stories highlight the immense potential of cord blood banking and its role in advancing medical treatments and improving patient outcomes.

Future potential of cord blood banking in leukemia treatment.

The future potential of cord blood banking in leukemia treatment holds great promise for patients and the medical community alike. As ongoing research and advancements in stem cell transplantation continue to progress, cord blood has emerged as a valuable resource in the fight against leukemia. The unique characteristics of cord blood stem cells, such as their immunological naivety and potential for reduced graft-versus-host disease, make them a compelling option for leukemia patients in need of a transplant. Furthermore, the ability to access stored cord blood units expedites the transplant process, providing a timely and potentially life-saving intervention. With continued efforts to optimize matching algorithms and expand the availability of cord blood units, the future of cord blood banking in leukemia treatment holds the potential to revolutionize the field and offer renewed hope to patients battling this challenging disease.In conclusion, myeloid/NK cell precursor acute leukemia is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that can be difficult to treat. However, with the advancement of medical technology and the FDA's approval of cord blood banking, there is hope for patients diagnosed with this disease. By storing cord blood, individuals can have a readily available source of potentially life-saving stem cells, which can be used for transplant and treatment. This option not only offers a chance for a successful outcome, but also provides peace of mind for families and their loved ones. It is crucial to educate ourselves and others about the importance of cord blood banking in the fight against diseases like myeloid/NK cell precursor acute leukemia.

FAQ

What is Myeloid/Natural Killer (NK) Cell Precursor Acute Leukemia and how does it differ from other types of leukemia?Myeloid/Natural Killer (NK) cell precursor acute leukemia is a rare and aggressive form of leukemia in which abnormal myeloid and NK cells proliferate uncontrollably. This type of leukemia differs from others due to its unique cell lineage, involving both myeloid and NK cell precursors. It can present challenges in diagnosis and treatment due to its rarity and aggressive nature, often requiring a tailored approach. Additionally, the prognosis for patients with this type of leukemia can vary compared to more common forms, necessitating specialized care and management strategies.How does FDA approved cord blood banking play a role in the treatment of Myeloid/NK Cell Precursor Acute Leukemia?FDA approved cord blood banking provides a source of stem cells for transplant in the treatment of Myeloid/NK Cell Precursor Acute Leukemia. These stem cells can be used to replace damaged or diseased cells in the bone marrow, helping to restore normal blood cell production in patients with this type of leukemia. The approval ensures that the cord blood units meet specific quality and safety standards, making them a reliable option for transplantation in leukemia patients undergoing treatment.What are the benefits of using cord blood stem cells in the treatment of leukemia compared to other sources of stem cells?Cord blood stem cells are advantageous in leukemia treatment due to their lower risk of rejection, reduced likelihood of transmitting infections, and higher tolerance for tissue mismatches. Additionally, cord blood stem cells are more readily available, can be stored long-term for future use, and have shown promising results in reducing complications post-transplant. Their versatility and effectiveness make them a valuable resource in treating leukemia, offering potential for improved outcomes and increased survival rates for patients undergoing stem cell transplantation.How does the process of collecting and storing cord blood for banking work, and what are the requirements for FDA approval?Cord blood collection involves extracting blood from the umbilical cord post-birth, which is then stored in a cord blood bank for potential future medical use. The FDA regulates cord blood banking, requiring banks to follow specific guidelines related to donor screening, processing, testing, and labeling to ensure safety and efficacy. Approval from the FDA involves demonstrating compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices, adherence to donor screening protocols, and monitoring for infectious diseases. stringent quality control measures are crucial for FDA approval to ensure the safety and effectiveness of cord blood for potential transplantation or other medical uses.Are there any potential risks or limitations associated with using cord blood banking for the treatment of Myeloid/NK Cell Precursor Acute Leukemia?While cord blood banking offers potential benefits for treating Myeloid/NK Cell Precursor Acute Leukemia, there are some limitations and risks. These include the possibility of insufficient cord blood volume, delayed availability, and a potential mismatch between the donor cord blood and recipient. Additionally, there is a risk of graft failure or graft-versus-host disease post-transplant. It is important to weigh the benefits against these limitations and risks when considering cord blood banking for the treatment of this type of leukemia.  Read the full article

[niharikawritings]

The Significance Of Stem Cell Banking: Explained

As an expectant parent, your main focus will undoubtedly be to ensure a secure future for your baby. And why not? It's quite natural to prioritize your little one's future and offer them the best-secured life! Having said that, you may have heard about stem cell banking to preserve your baby’s stem cells and the numerous benefits it offers. But, did you know that banking your baby’s umbilical cord blood stem cells post-birth can also safeguard your baby and entire family from over 90+ medical conditions? That’s right! In this article, let us learn about the world of stem cells, explore the benefits of stem cell banking and know how you can opt for it.

Unlocking The Potential Of Stem Cells And Stem Cell Banking

In simple terms, stem cells are special human cells that can develop into many different cell types ranging from muscle cells to brain cells.1 Unlike other cells in the body stem cells are unique due to the following reasons:2

They have the ability to self-renew themselves

They cannot perform specific functions in the body as they are unspecialised

They can transform into specialised cells such as blood cells, brain cells and muscle cells

There is ongoing, extensive research in the field of “regenerative medicine” exploring the ability of stem cells to treat various diseases and injuries. This is because experimental evidence suggests that stem cells can potentially function as repair mechanisms for the replacement of damaged cells.3

These stem cells are broadly classified into embryonic stem cells, foetal stem cells, adult stem cells, embryonic germ cells, and amniotic and umbilical cord stem cells.3 If you want to learn more about their sources and specific properties, read this blog on “All About Stem Cells: Different Types & Sources Of Stem Cells”.

Now, let’s discuss stem cell banking: the art of preserving stem cells to safeguard your baby’s future!

What Is Stem Cell Banking?

Stem cell banking involves collecting and freezing your baby’s umbilical cord stem cells using cryogenic technology. These cells have the potential to treat life-threatening diseases such as 4,5

Bone marrow diseases that require a transplant

Cancers like lymphoma or leukaemia

Sickle cell disease

Immune system disorders

By choosing stem cell banking, you can obtain biological assurance to protect your baby and family from life-threatening diseases, if the need ever arises.6 So, if you are looking to bank your baby’s stem cells, then LifeCell, India's first and largest stem cell bank can be a trusted option.

Established in 2004, LifeCell is chosen by over 4,50,000+ parents to preserve their baby’s stem cells. You’d also be surprised to know that it is the first stem cell bank to introduce community stem cell banking. By opting for LifeCell’s stem cell banking plan, you can gain access to a vast repository of 75,000+ qualified cord blood units. Quite fascinating, right? Now let’s explore the benefits of umbilical cord blood stem cell banking. 

Unique Benefits Of Stem Cell Banking With LifeCell

There are several advantages of banking your baby’s stem cells with LifeCell as they offer exclusive benefits to your little one and family.

Family Coverage: Benefits to immediate family members of the baby including parents, siblings, and grandparents (maternal & paternal)

Protects From Various Medical Conditions: Safeguards baby from the impact of 90+ conditions & family members from 82+ conditions

Largest Inventory: Access to 75,000+ qualified cord blood units 

Best Matchmaker: > 97% chance of finding an Indian-origin stem cell match

Medical Insurance: Financial assistance up to INR 20 lakhs for every stem cell transplantation

Highest Retrieval Experience: Safe transplantation program with 64 retrievals in India & 19 Internationally

How Much Does Stem Cell Banking Cost?

The best part is that you can now enrol for stem cell banking at just Rs 1 with zero-interest EMIs. To make stem cell banking affordable LifeCell has partnered with financial institutions such as Bajaj Finserv, Pinelabs, Axio (formerly Capital Float) and LiquiLoans. You can know more about LifeCell’s affordable stem cell banking plans in this article - “Zero-Interest EMIs, 1 Rupee Down Payment: LifeCell Makes Stem Cell Banking Affordable For All.”

It’s A Wrap!

We hope this blog has provided you with all the necessary information on LifeCell’s stem cell banking program. By opting to preserve your baby’s umbilical cord blood cells, you not only ensure the safety and health of your own family but also contribute to improving the lives of others. So, if you’re expecting a baby, grab the chance to protect your family with India's largest and most preferred stem cell bank for up to 75 years! 

To know more details about LifeCell’s stem cell banking call us at 1800-266-5533 or visit lifecell.in

[teddyniffler]

Chapter 20: House of Gaunt

For Mr Gaunt, a normal daily deluge of owls was a normal and regular entertaining pass time of his. He opened them all, but he only ever considered taking a very few serious and helped an even less number than that. His correspondents were from a large number of people, pureblood families asking yet again, forever hopeful, for him to consider courtship between their daughter and Marvolo. Lesser important families mailing him for him to consider their plight or charity with his endless bank vault at Gringotts in mind, those always went into the fire after he stopped laughing, unless he could use them himself. Phineas Black sent an owl at last twice a week asking for reassurances against their latest ‘project’ which he knew to mean Phineas was freaking out about the Sallow boy deception, most of the time they went unanswered, Gaunt, after all kept paying Black visits in person, no need to write to the fellow too, he may get a false sense of mutual friendship.

Others were from people looking for political gain, including the Minister for Magic himself writing to the Gaunt household for their presence at his social affairs.

Everybody wanted something from the Gaunts.

They were just that powerful.

So it surprised him greatly when an owl he didn’t normally see entered through his window bearing the Hogwart’s school crest upon a leather cord around it’s leg. He put down a letter and walked to the owl, it was perched waiting on the owl stand, it’s leg out ready for him. Who from school was writing to him? Surely not…

He noticed the tidy writing at once.

Ominis had sent an owl home. Twice in a matter of months, Master Gaunt should feel privileged that his son would remember his family twice. Slightly smiling he opened the letter.

Father.

I write this letter to you to see if you could sway the headmaster, Professor Black, into admitting Sebastian back to school. He does not appear to be yielding to the pressure the other teachers are placing on him. Sebastian should be at school, I know you have influence with him, can you intervene on my behalf? Please tell mother that I can’t wait to see her and you at Easter.

Ominis.

Mr Gaunt smirked as he read the last line, Ominis would be seeing him regardless of the Sallow boy’s outcome as a student, they had already agreed to that. He did appreciate his son’s boldness though, sensing some kind of attempt by Ominis to use their power over Black. However, Mr Gaunt was a firm believer in personal growth, if Ominis wanted the Sallow boy back at Hogwarts, then Ominis would have to ‘convince’ Phineas himself.

He placed the letter down, maybe he would show his wife later, evidence of their son’s resourcefulness. She often questioned if he was a real Slytherin. He sat back on his chair, now more amused than before.

If Gaunt was being honest, having the Sallow boy remaining in St Mungos was the best option, he knew it would upset Ominis, but it was the best for all. In there he was just a demented boy who made incomprehensible noises or cried all day in all the reports he had been sent by healer Lenus, nobody took no notice of him there, the healers mollycoddled him and washed his face. Out in the world, at Hogwarts or among the community, one day his guilt may force him to confess that everything had been a lie, that he was smuggled out of Azkaban was a likely possibility.

By the boy’s breeding, he was not strong like the Gaunt’s, the Sallows appeared to be half blood at best. They were records, but unclear in places, Hogwarts Professors, Aurors, but also farmers who lived in small hamlets near Muggle and goblin settlements.

Only filth would live in a place like that.

Half breed muggle/wizard filth.

By allowing muggles into their breeding they were naturally weak minded. By any means, if the Sallow named died out, it would not be a great loss to the Wizarding World in Gaunt’s eyes. No, the Sallow boy would remain in St Mungos, Mr Gaunt would write to his healer and inform him to make it happen. If Ominis wanted to remember he had a backbone in the meantime, that would just be an additional bonus.

He raised his cup to his lips and sipped some of the tea inside.

Ominis was the one, Gaunt knew it. He glanced down at the ring upon his hand. That ring had been passed down, father to son as long as it had been made all those years ago by Cadmus Peverell. Marvolo was the likely son to receive it in the eyes of everybody else, but he wanted it to go to Ominis. He was the true heir, Gaunt knew it, why else had he been born the way he had. The snake in the chamber couldn’t harm him if he were to look upon it. He could be in its presence without fear of any harm coming to him at all, he could breed an army of Basilisks without fear, control the wizarding world with them without ever having to concern himself with avoiding their gaze. Marvolo would one day be Minister for Magic, but Ominis would be the one to leave the world trembling.

The only thing that was stopping Ominis was his weak will.

As his father, Mr Gaunt knew what Ominis was capable of, but he also knew Ominis was weak in a way the Gaunts shouldn’t be. How many times had he argued with his dear sister over the same very subjects? Ominis was too much like Noctua.

Ominis just needed a push, and as normal, Mr Gaunt wanted to be a good father.

Lenus,

Regulations be damned, I want results.

The girl is of no consequence, stop fretting over nothing, to whom will she complain too? Her uncle is dead, as are her parents, she and the boy have nobody on their side, or are you really, truly telling me you fear the judgement of an Urchin over that of myself? Move the Sallow boy to that closed ward and be done with him. I do not like loose ends. I want to hear by the end of this week that he has been moved. Don’t keep me waiting.

He did not sign it, healer Lenus would know exactly who it was from. He tapped his wand and the letter disappeared in a ball of flames. He did not trust owls, they could be intercepted in flight. He drank more and placed his cup back down. He then picked up his quill again and started to write a short letter to Ominis.

My dear son.

At times it is a father’s job to guide with a firm hand, then at others it is a father’s job to stand back and allow his son to find his own path, no matter if he has eyes or not. Your plea has been heard; however you shall not have assistance this time. Thrive my son, I know you have what it takes.

father.

He almost chucked at the eye pun, imagining Ominis’ look of outrage when his wand would read that line out to him. His little giggle was interrupted however.

“What does Ominis want?” Came a voice right behind him.

“Intrude upon my private correspondence again Marvolo, and you shall be sorry.” Warned Gaunt softly.

Marvolo’s eyes flashed a second, he almost looked nervous, but there was something in his light brown eyes that ruined that image, his eyes were screamed in icy fury at being chastised.

“Don’t even think of it.” Mr Gaunt waved his hand and Marvolo yelped with pain as something struck him hard across his back.

“I wasn’t doing anything.” Marvolo protested, rubbing his back and cursing his father’s ability to use wandless magic.

“I didn’t like your look.” Mr Gaunt said, matter of factly. “Never look at me or anybody in this house like that again.”

Mr Gaunt watched his son carefully. Another reason why he believed Ominis was the true heir to the Gaunt family was Marvolo’s personality. The Gaunt family often partook in activities that lesser wizards would not have the nerve to do, however Marvolo’s love for violence often went overboard. He was deranged, it was simple, both him and his wife knew it, their son was simply born that way. Mr Gaunt believed Marvolo would be a good leader in time, would bring glory to pure bloods, however his bloodlust, expectably in this home, needed controlling on a tight lead.

Marvolo arranged his look into something more pleasing.

“Sorry father.” He said, while his insides still raged. His father still treated him no better than a child at times and he did not like that.

“So, what did Ominis want? Anything I can help with?”

Master Gaunt looked at his eldest son and smiled.

“This is for Ominis to resolve and if he can’t, then he doesn’t get what he wants this time.” Was all his father would say. Excluding him from the conversation now, where they?

Fine, Marvolo thought as he left the room a little while later, his back now burning where his father had struck him. He had an ugly look on his face, ever since Ominis had made contact again, all his father cared about was Ominis.

Ominis this. Ominis that.

What did Marvolo get? His father’s insane expectations that meant all his days following Minister Spavin around, shadowing him, learning everything he can as fast as he could. Making the old man cups of tea and preparing his lunches. Spavin was ancient and growing older each day, he could be replaced at any time and Marvolo was lined up for a senor position once he did. No matter how well Marvolo did, his father was so obsessed with the blind boy who had ran away, that he had totally forgotten about the son who didn’t. Marvolo loved Ominis, but sometimes he hated Ominis so much he could- well, Marvolo mused, you had to mean it to cause pain to somebody in order for the Cruciatus Curse to work, and Marvolo’s curse had been extremely effective on his little brother.

If his father wouldn’t tell him what was up with his little brother now, then Marvolo would just find out for himself.

“Mori.” He hissed. “Come.”

Professor Weasley had gone, so had Anne.

On Sebastian’s bed was a small box of strawberry flavoured chocolate in small smooth balls. He was unbelievably tired of St Mungo’s chocolate, he never wanted to eat any of that stuff again, but the Honeydukes stuff he had only started eating again. He was laying on his side, raising a chocolate ball to his mouth. He mostly ate food now one small bite at a time, with the chocolate he mostly let it melt on his lips and sadly his fingers. The book Professor Weasley had given him was open on top of his Slytherin fleece. He found it very difficult to focus on the words, so he watched the pictures move.

Hands casting magic without wands. Wands then casting the same magic and a comparison between how both looked. He watched as an illustrated person showed basic breathing in stressful conditions to control their magic, followed by the same cartoon person loosing their control. Arrows showed the way their magic cursed through their bodies. Sebastian could understand this, he always felt something surging through him whenever he lost control. For a moment his eyes closed, his head lolling down before his eyes opened again. He closed his eyes tightly, then opened them, hoping it would clear the sluggish heavy feeling. He wished he could have a cup of coffee, he remembered Uncle Solomon once had gotten him and Anne some of it, but it was so expensive compared to tea, that would help him stay awake.

The door opened as Sebastian was taking another chocolate from the box. He looked at the healer who came in, Sebastian had seen him a few times, this one normally aided in cleaning and feeding him.

Sebastian was sure his name was Lenus or something. All their names blended together just like their lime green robes.

“Hello Sebastian, how are you feeling this evening? We have some news for you. We’re going to be moving you to a bigger room, you’ll feel a lot more at home, you’ll even have people to talk too if you wish.”

The healer was smiling but Sebastian was suddenly flooded with unease. A ward? But Anne said she wasn’t going to sign their forms, so how-

Another healer came into the room, this time a woman, she had papers in her hand, she attached them to the bed with a tap of her wand. She then tapped the bed with her wand and it started to move.

Sebastian gripped the mattress he the bed moved, his book still open next to him.

“Can you please gather all of his possessions, he has a few sweets, oh and that” the male healer pointed at the teddy bear Anne had brought in for Sebastian, the one from his parents. Sebastian glanced at the two healers for answers.

“So” The male healer said with a smile “We believe your healing will improve greatly with other people around, you’re being taken to a little ward where you will have more room and some company, wont that be brilliant after being alone for so long? This is a good thing Sebastian, you should be happy, this is a sign we believe your progress has come a long way.”

They were out in the hall now, Sebastian looking at all the lights and candle holders they passed, pictures of smiling wizards and witches on the walls waving at him, then they arrived at the door, the male healer tapped the door and it opened. They went in and Sebastian could see other beds hidden by curtains, at least two other people spaced around the room. The female healer came in after, holding the sweets and his teddy bear. She placed them onto a little table with a small oil lamp, just as the male healer parked the bed up against the wall, leaving only one side open, which he then tapped with his wand, the bars around his bed grew higher, until it almost felt like he was a young child again in an enclosed bed. Sebastian looked questioningly at the bars.

“A-A-A?”

“Ooh don’t worry about them!” The male healer said all lightly. “They are just so you don’t get out of bed right now, you know, we can’t have you accidently stumbling around, you may mistake somebody for a Dementors or hurt yourself.”

He then pointed to the wall in which Sebastian’s bed laid on.

“So, this is your own personal wall, you can hang up pictures of your family and friends, any pets. We can really make it feel like your home. We’ll keep the curtains closed so you can have your privacy. We want you to be comfortable, it will help you feel better.”

While he talked, the flowery curtains closed around his bed, leaving a small area enclosed around Sebastian’s bed, so he was now looking through the bars at large sunflowers from two sides, and two walls on the other.

“A-A-A” Sebastian gasped.

“Shhh now, it’s okay son. Settle in, I see you are a Slytherin, we can hang up some green and silver streamers if you’d like, and if you’re a Quidditch fan your favourite team will go excellent on this wall. We can also fit a bookshelf in this little area here when you are able to focus more, that way you can read as many books as you want and with your own clothing from home here, this place shall soon feel like your own little area.”

He smiled at Sebastian through the bars.

“I have to go clean the old room now, but take a little time to get your bearings, your bathtime will be soon, try to sleep early tonight if you can.”

He was acting all upbeat and happy. Sebastian looked at him in confusion and unease.

Anne would have told him if she had signed.

He knew she wouldn’t sign him away like this.

Healer Lenus left the room, left that boy’s brown eyes gazing at him.

He wasn’t a bad person, he kept telling himself, the Gaunts just had the money he needed to help his daughter, she had been sick, they had needed the money to take her to America. A blood curse that needed breaking.

He owed the Gaunts money, a lot of it. They had only agreed to help him because he worked at this hospital.

Anybody the Gaunts didn’t want to survive, didn’t.

He was a good person, a good person in a very bad position.

He needed to do as the Gaunts said. This boy would be happy with the care St Mungos could give him, this was the best place for him, for if he went out in the world after Azkaban and being expelled from Hogwarts, his future would be bleak in the Muggle world. Best he be under the care of wizards, he had a warm bed, meals, this was a mercy compared to what could happen to him. During his break, he would send Gaunt an owl to tell him the deed was done. He himself had forged the girl’s signature on the papers, he did it because he had no choice.

Sebastian watched through the bars, not believing what was happening to him. The female healer finished putting his clothing away and his sweets on the table. When she left through the curtains, Sebastian tried pulling himself up, first sitting up and then dragging himself up by the bars until he was on his knees, his eyes not even coming level with the top of the bars. There was no way he could get over this. He allowed himself to fall back down and heard the unmistakable snap of a lock clicking in place.

The room wasn’t silent, he could hear the other people in here, odd muttering and something that sounded almost animal squeaking from the bed on the other side of the room.

Then the trembling started, the feeling of being shut in, locked in a room he couldn’t get out. For an hour he just sat with his hand clutching the pillow behind his head. Sebastian’s eyes flickered from side to side, dry sobs escaping his lips as his heart raced. He knew the other people in there would be able to hear him, but neither of them made any other noise. He couldn’t see any windows in this small closed off corner, he was against plain white walls, even the flowered curtains offered him no comfort, the sunflowers reminded him of Feldcroft. The bars that enclosed around him felt like he was back in the cell, but worse for there was less room now. His sweets were still on his bed, but he had forgotten all about them.

When the healer wheeled in a wheelchair a little while later, she found Sebastian staring ahead blankly, she made a note for more chocolate and medicine to be given to him after his bath.

[desaletushki]

Cryotherapy Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report, 2030

The global cryotherapy market size is expected to reach USD 11.99 billion by 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.0% from 2023 to 2030. This growth is due to a rise in demand for cryotherapy in fitness, beauty & wellness, increased prevalence of chronic diseases, and the high demand for minimally invasive procedures. A rise in the demand for minimally invasive procedures for the treatment of chronic diseases is also among the primary factors driving the market growth. Cryosurgery is a minimally invasive procedure. It has various advantages over conventional surgeries, including lesser pain, rapid wound healing, minimal surgical wounds, shorter hospital stays, and lower risk of complications.

Cardio Clinic at Asklepios St. Georg, one of the top heart centers in Germany, claims to perform around 300 cardiac cryoablation procedures every year. In fitness, beauty, and wellness treatments, there is a high demand for cryotherapy. Due to the high incidence of sports injuries, several sports clubs and sports teams are using cryo chambers for quicker recovery of injuries. For instance, the German rowing team, Wales Rugby Team, and the Chinese Olympic team have their own cryo chambers. All these factors are anticipated to boost market growth over the coming years. The COVID-19 pandemic adversely affected the market. Amid the pandemic, owing to stringent government regulations and lockdown to control the pandemic, a slowdown in the demand for cryotherapy was observed in the initial phase of the pandemic.

However, the market regained its pace by the end of 2020 in most countries. Companies are adopting strategies, such as new product development and partnerships. For instance, in August 2020, Cryoport, Inc. acquired CRYOPDP in an all-cash transaction of approximately USD 56.0 million. CRYOPDP-a French pioneer company-provides temperature-controlled logistics solutions for cell & gene therapy and clinical research communities. In October 2021, CARE Innovative Solutions announced the launch of the Slynarski Knee Clinic. It is the first clinic in Poland to provide computer-controlled cryotherapy solutions for knee-associated treatments.

Request a free sample copy or view the report summary: https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/cryotherapy-market

Cryotherapy Market Report Highlights

The cryosurgery segment held the largest revenue share in 2022 due to a rise in demand for surgical procedures

Cryochamber is expected to grow at a fastest CAGR over the forecast period, due to its high adoption by beauty clinics & fitness centers

Cold storage held the largest revenue share in 2022 due to the high demand for pharmaceutical cold chain logistics

In addition, various applications of cold storage in healthcare, such as bone marrow transplantation, in vitro fertilization, and cord blood banking, are another factor contributing to its largest share

North America is projected to be the dominant region due to high disposable income, well-established healthcare infrastructure, and high per capita healthcare expenditure

Cryotherapy Market Segmentation

Grand View Research has segmented the global cryotherapy market based on therapy type, device type, application, end-use, and region:

Cryotherapy Therapy Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

Cryosurgery

Icepack Therapy

Chamber Therapy

Cryotherapy Device Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

Cryogun

Cryo Probes

Tissue Contact Probes

Tissue Spray Probes

Gas Cylinders

Localized Cryotherapy Devices

Cryochambers & Cryosaunas

Other Devices

Cryotherapy Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

Surgical Applications

Oncology

Cardiology

Dermatology

Others

Pain Management

Beauty & Wellness

Fitness

Cold Storage

Other Applications

Cryotherapy End-use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

Hospitals & Specialty Clinics

Cryotherapy Centers

Spas & Fitness Centers

Others

Regional Insights

North America dominated the global market in 2022 and accounted for the largest share of 42.83% of the overall revenue primarily due to the high disposable income levels, well-established healthcare infrastructure, and high healthcare expenditure. This region has a significant number of cryotherapy centers. According to a research study, North America holds around 69% of total cryotherapy centers around the world. This is expected to propel market growth in the coming years.

Asia Pacific is expected to be the fastest-growing market during the forecast period on account of untapped opportunities in the region, growing awareness about cryosurgery in cancer and skin treatments coupled with the rapidly developing healthcare infrastructure, and increasing disposable incomes in emerging Asian countries. Approval of new products in developing markets is also expected to be a major driving factor. For instance, in October 2021, IceCure Medical Ltd. submitted an amendment to NMPA China regarding IceSense3 Cryoprobes system registration certificate. After successful approval, IceCure Medical can commercialize its product in China.

List of Key Players in Cryotherapy Market

Brymill Cryogenic Systems

Metrum Cryoflex

CryoConcepts LP

Medtronic

Cortex Technology

Medtronic Medicale S.r.l.

Cryoalfa

Wallach Surgical Devices

Zimmer MedizinSysteme GmbH

Authoritative Research: https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/cryotherapy-market

[atlanticcanada]

Here is a list of items Maritimers can donate to help people in Ukraine

Ukrainians in the Maritimes have launched efforts to help the people of Ukraine.

Anastasiia Mereshchuk, a member of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress in Halifax, has started Stand with Ukraine Merch, a non-profit initiative to sell T-shirts to help raise funds for humanitarian support.

“All of the proceeds will go to the Ukrainian foundations to address Ukrainian army needs and everyday needs for civilians,” she said.

Oleksii Shatov, owner of Topaz Transport Inc., said volunteers are also collecting items such as medical supplies and clothes, and organizing a way to pick them up from various locations in the Maritimes and transport them to Ukraine.

In Nova Scotia, items can be dropped off at 1 Kingswood Drive, unit 200, in Hammonds Plains, N.S.

In Charlottetown, items can be dropped off at 149 Sherwood Road, Sherwood Truck & Auto Repair.

Oksana Tesla, a representative of the Ukrainian community in Fredericton, said people have been dropping off items at volunteers’ homes in the Moncton, Saint John and Fredericton areas. The group is deciding on a drop-off location to share publicly.

According to Shatov, the items most needed are:

Medicines and medical supplies:

Ibuprofen

Acetaminophen

Antipyretics

Diarrhea medicines

Bandages

Nurofen

Blood bags

Droppers

Catheters

Elastic bandages

Alcohol wipes

Gauze

Gauze wipes

Novorapid

Protafan

Insulin sensors

Meloxicam

Ciprofloxacin

Novalis

Caver

Hemostatic bandage

Nasopharyngeal tube

Laryngeal tube

Conicotomy set

Decompression needle

Occlusal sticker

YUTA type

Ambu Perfit ACE cervical collar

SAM Pelvic Sling II Israeli Emergency Bandage 8"/12"

additional medical backpacks

additional ampoules

Blood transfusion kits

Tranexamic acid (in ampoules)

Painkillers

Disposable gloves

Insulin, Glucose

Wound patches

Chlorhexidine

Lidocaine/Ketanov

Dexamethasone

Food:

canned food/non-perishable food

cereals

dry rations

sublimates

coffee (custard / instant)

tea

energy drinks

sugar

chocolate bars

Other:

power banks

bandages

adhesive tape

flashlights

sleeping bags

blankets

A4 paper

candles

flashlights

empty bags (for sand)

thermal underwear (large size)

shoes 44+ size

large warm socks

warm clothes in large sizes

fleeces, knee pads, mittens first aid kits, walkie-talkies, tactical trousers

mats

blankets

pillow

personal hygiene (toothbrushes, paste, toilet paper, pads, etc.)

diapers

antiseptics

kettles

extension cords

baby formula

shaving gels and razors

shampoos

plastic tableware

garbage bags

towels

“We have to help our people to survive and keep them safe,” Shatov said.

He said his family is in hiding in Ukraine right now, including his mother, daughter and grandchild.

“From one day I think we have supplies for one plane,” Shatov said, adding he hopes government will help.

“This is not just for Ukrainians. This is for everyone. Everybody who worries about the situation, help us,” he said

from CTV News - Atlantic https://ift.tt/Ae97FvP

[ask-elementalhermitcraft]

The Giving Tree

(1.1k, angst, mod seagrass)

he gives, and gives, and gives until he has nothing left. it hurts, of course, but for his friends-- anything. [Joe overextends himself, over and over, to heal his friends. one day he pushes too far too fast.]

Based off of a prompt given to us during our 200 follower celebration:

Another shirt torn in the same place today

Why they wear out thereabouts, that I cannot say

Another sleeve torn, ripped without a sign

Another top shorn, my wardrobe in decline

There are no threads so sacred that they never are let go

And our bodies grow more naked, as the clothes beneath them show

And the colors once so flagrant, fade thinning into snow

- Joehills

Have you heard the tale of the giving tree?

She gave and gave, til she had nothing left, then she gave more.

Why?

For love, of course. Isn’t that why we do anything?

It’s for love that he does it too, he thinks. Love of his friends, of his teammates, of the whole world. He has to give something, in return for all the love they give him. And he’s got the perfect power for it, too.

Joe can heal everyone, but everything comes at a cost. With the sigh of relief that comes from mending Grian’s wings, his own back tightens and he stifles a cry. It hurts, he thinks, but things stopped hurting a while ago and it’s all about the team now.

They care about him! They’re his friends! And he should help them in turn.

He keeps that in mind as it all escalates, as they come to him with worse injuries, when they limp in looking half-dead and tear tracks down cheeks as he rushes to them, asks what’s wrong (he’s so worried god) and mends their pain.

Joe tries hard at first to keep them all topped up, all ready to go, he really does. Tries to send them off fully healed, with a band-aid or something, ready to go—maybe they’ll be more careful next time, maybe he won’t have to face the sight of blood trailing on his carpet as they drag Stress’s pale body into their base, maybe he can be faster and help them avoid the pain in the first place.

But.

But, it’s so hard.

The healing takes a toll on him, the universe tells him that he can’t keep up, slow down please, you deserve to stay safe too but what else can he do besides keep their team feeling okay?

He starts waking up in odd spots, unaware of when he had fallen asleep.

He starts seeing spots in front of his eyes, learns how to keep his iron count up, learns how to maneuver himself to a bed as fast as any man he’s ever seen.

He starts discovering silvery lines all over himself, for every injury he heals he sees them back on his body like some twisted kind of transfer paper (and how he misses when he had the time for charcoal sketches pinned up above the fireplace).

It hurts, but he’s numb to it by now. Keep going for the team, take one for the sake of your friends. Because you love them.

It’s hard to notice when the cup fills to overflowing, when he starts to realize he’s not effective at base anymore, when he can’t heal fast enough to have them back in before the next battle. All he can tell is that they’re starting to ask him along on the missions.

Humiliation stings, he thinks. Unintentional or otherwise. So he works harder.

Harder, to make up for his failures, all those times he wasn't able to stitch up a wound fast enough.

Harder to try to make things up too little too late. He doesn’t know anymore what’s his own flesh and what’s scar tissue.

He’s so tired, just wants to lay and rest, but they’re moving in on a major battle and Grian had patted his shoulders with the most tired eyes he’d ever seen and a small bleeding gash on his arm and asked him if he was ready and god what could he say to that?

He doesn’t say anything. Just soothes the pain a little (can’t heal it fully can’t even heal a tiny cut anymore) and gives him the best smile he can muster. Grian takes it as proof he’s okay, then, and of course he is.

—

It’s so bright in the afternoon sun, he thinks lazily. The land’s blurry around him. He doesn’t know what’s going on, just that he’s got a new idea for a poem. He’s never been more at bliss, lying on a bed of soft grass, staring at the sky. Everything is warm and happy and peaceful and he thinks he should update the community bulletin board next time he swings around with a new poem.

He hears shouting from a very, very far place. Telling him to get up. He’s not going to get up, it’s such a lovely day, the sun’s so bright for the first time in ages. He can’t remember why he hasn’t done this sooner.

Maybe he’ll take a nap here, he thinks, and starts to slide his eyes shut. There’s a very, very thin string connecting him to his body still, his heavy, heavy, body, and he thinks how easy it would be to wind it around his finger and snap.

Please, someone cries. Pleasepleasepleaseplease—

It’s distracting, and for an instant he pries his eyelids back open to see a bloodied figure clutching his hands. Let go, he tries to say, and discovers how sticky his tongue is. Hm.

Must be something in the water.

Joe slides his eyelids back shut but god, the insistent crying, it’s echoing in his ears and distracting him from severing that last cord that tethers him to his heavy body. He feels a warm sort of liquid on him, but he barely registers it—must be a summer rain shower or something. He doesn’t know. Just wants to sleep.

He vaguely feels his body being lifted up, gathered in someone’s arms like a limp ragdoll, ha, wouldn’t that be funny, a little Joe doll. Could pin it up on someone’s wall or something.

He hopes he’s not causing too much trouble. Then they’d call him down, and he’d have to leave the lovely summer afternoon he’s in.

The pain of the months before is a distant dream? Memory? He doesn’t know, and he turns to his side on the grassy bank. He thinks, or hopes, he can stay here forever.

Inside there’s a little voice, calling to him, please joe you need to wake up you need to hurry your team is hurting you need to tell them you’re okay you need to heal them you need to you need to you need to

You need to fix all this you need to make it right you need to fix all your past mistakes and the time is always for doing that, hurry please wake up don’t die don’t die you still have work left to do

But he ignores the voice, doesn’t he, and shifts into a more comfortable position. He can still hear the crying and the screaming, but it’s getting fainter by the second, and he’s getting more and more comfortable here. He’s safe, and happy, and content here like he’s never been before. They can’t begrudge him that, can they?

Joe Hills starts to slide into a peaceful sleep.

[mythicallore]

Haunted Places: The Amityville Horror

The history of The Amityville Horror began with a best-selling novel. A book entitled The Amityville Horror: A True Story, written by Jay Anson, was published in 1977 and quickly scaled the sales charts. This is the story of America's most shocking haunting.

The story behind the story began on 13th November 1974, when six members of the DeFeo family were killed. The parents, Ronald and Louise DeFeo, were shot in bed while they slept, along with their two sons and two daughters. The sole remaining family member, Ronald Jr. ("Butch"), was arrested for the crime, convicted, and sentenced to prison.

112 Ocean Avenue in Amityville, Long Island

The strangest thing about the murders was that all of the bodies were found face down in bed, as if something had held them there while they were shot. Not one of the family appear to have been woken by the sounds of the gunshots, even thought the high powered rifle that was used can normally be heard up to a mile away when fired.

With the family dead, the house went up for sale. The horrific nature of the massacre unnerved the otherwise quiet Long Island neighbourhood.

The following year, a new family, the Lutzes, moved into the house. George and Kathy Lutz, along with their three children, said that shortly after they moved in, their six-bedroom abode became a Hell house. It seemed that perhaps the demons that drove Butch to slaughter his family were not in his head but in the house.

An unseen force ripped doors from hinges and slammed cabinets closed, noxious green slime oozed from the ceilings, a biblical-scale swarm of insects attacked the family, and a demonic face with glowing red eyes peered into their house at night, leaving cloven-hoofed footprints in the morning snow. Locked windows and doors would open constantly by themselves. George Lutz would wake up every night at 3.15 am, the exact time that the DeFeo murders took place. A priest was called upon to bless the house, but was driven back with painful blisters on his hands, and was told by a demonic voice to "Get out!".

After 28 days the family fled the house, never to return. They left all of their possessions in the house which were never collected. They quickly went public and told of the horrors that that tormented them in the house.

The DeFeo Family

The horrific carnage that prefaced the story of the "Amityville Horror" began one dark autumn night in 1974.On the evening of November 13, police officers were called to 112 Ocean Avenue in Amityville, Long Island, where they found six members of the DeFeo family had been killed whilst sleeping peacefully in their beds.

The victims were Ronald Sr. his wife Louise, their two young sons, Mark and John, and two daughters, Dawn and Allison. Their other son, Ronald "Butch" DeFeo Junior, survived the incident unscathed. The victims had all been shot with a .35 caliber Marlin rifle at around three o'clock in the morning.

The local community were devastated. The DeFeo's were a well known family within the community. Their children attended the local schools with the other children of Amityville. Locals watched with horror as Ronald DeFeo Jr. was taken away by police. He was later tried and convicted for all of the murders.

In June of 1965, Ronald DeFeo Sr. purchased a 3 story Dutch Colonial home at 112 Ocean Avenue, equipped with a boathouse on the Amityville River and plenty of rooms for his wife and four children. It was the American dream: beautiful house, happy family, and money to spare. The DeFeo's even placed a sign in the front yard that read "High Hopes" as a symbol of the family's good fortune and dreams for the future.

Behind the success and happiness, Ronald Sr. was an angry man, prone to outbreaks of rage and violence. He and Louise often fought and he was a threatening figure to his children.

As the oldest child, Butch often bore the brunt of his father's expectations and bad temper. He was an overweight, sullen boy who was often picked on in school. His father harassed him to stand up for himself - but never at home. Ronald Sr. had no patience for disobedience or backchat.

As Butch got older, he grew stronger and larger and was no longer as tolerant of his father's abuse. By the age of 17 Ronald Jnr. or "Butch" as he was called by his friends, was using serious drugs and dabbling in petty thievery. He was expelled from school because of his drug use. His behaviour had also become more erratic and his violent outbursts more psychotic.

His temper had grown as hot as his father's, and when he reached adolescence they often succumbed to fist fighting matches. Even Ronald Sr., with his own anger issues, began to realize that his son's temper and violent behaviour were not normal.

Even though he was well looked after by his family, landing an easy job at his grandfather's car dealership where he received a weekly allowance whether he turned up to work or not, Butch was growing more angry and resentful of his father's supposedly stingy ways.

Ronald Sr. and Louise arranged for Butch to visit a psychiatrist but it did not help. The Butch insisted there was nothing wrong with him and refused to work with the psychiatrist. In the absence of any other solution, the DeFeo's began simply buying Butch whatever he wanted in order to placate him. At the age of 14, his father gave him a $14,000 speedboat to cruise the Amityville River. Whenever Butch needed money, he only had to ask and it was given to him.

The altercations with his father grew more frequent and more dangerous. One night a fight started between Mr. and Mrs. DeFeo and to settle the matter, Butch took a 12-gauge shotgun from his room, placed a shell into the chamber and went downstairs. He walked into the room, pointed the gun at his father and pulled the trigger. Strangely though, it did not go off. Ronald Sr. sat frozen in his chair and watched as his son lowered the gun and walked out of the room. Butch seemed completely unconcerned that he had nearly killed his father in cold blood. The fight was over but Butch's reaction was an indication of events to come.

In the weeks before the murders, the relationship between Butch and his father reached a breaking point. He was unhappy with the money that he "earned" from his father and planned a fake robbery with a friend while he was on the way to the bank to deposit $20,000 from the dealership, splitting the "stolen" cash with his friend. Ronald Sr. exploded into a rage when he heard Butch's story, berating the staff member who had entrusted him with the money in the first place. When Ronald Sr. exposed his sham, Butch wanted revenge.

The DeFeo Family

The police were called who interviewed Butch. Instead of devising a fictional story about the robbery, he became tense and irritable with them. He soon became violent when they began to suspect that he was lying. Butch started cursing them and banging on the hood of a car to emphasize his rage. The police backed off for the moment, but Ronald, Sr. had already come to his own conclusions about his son's behaviour. He knew that he had stolen the money.

On the Friday before the murders, the police had asked Butch to look at some mug shots on the chance that he might be able to identify the thief who had allegedly robbed him. He agreed to do this but then backed out at the last minute. When he father heard this, he confronted Butch and demanded to know why didn't want to help the authorities. The two began shouting at one another and then Butch ran to his car and drove away. This fight had not turned violent, but that was coming.

The DeFeo Murders

The night of Wednesday, November 13th was a cool one in Amityville. The streets were quiet and so was the house at 112 Ocean Avenue. Everyone had gone to sleep with the exception of Butch, who was brooding in his room. The more that he simmered in his thoughts, the more determined he became to solve his problems once and for all. Butch left the second floor TV room armed with his .35 calibre Marlin Rifle from some storage space were he kept several weapons and started off, silently but purposefully, toward his parent's bedroom.

John DeFeo

He entered his parent's bedroom, instantly killing his father Ronald DeFeo with two shots to the lower back. The first shot ripped into Ronald Sr.'s back, tearing through his kidney and exiting through his chest. The second shot, again fired into his back, pierced his father's spine and lodged in his neck.

His mother was now awake but had no time to react before Butch fired at her too. He shot her twice, shattering her rib cage and collapsing her right lung, and then left her to die.

Since the bodies of his four younger brothers and sisters were all found in their beds, it appeared that they were not awakened by the shots. Butch left his parent's room to continue the massacre.

His two younger brothers, John and Mark, were his next victims. Standing between their beds in the room the two young boys shared, he fired one shot at close range into each of their bodies. Mark was killed instantly, while John, whose spinal cord was severed by his brother's attack, twitched for a few moments and then lay still.

Allison DeFeo

Again, the shots had not roused the remaining members of the family. Finally, he entered the room of his sisters Dawn and Allison. As Butch walked into the room, Allison stirred and looked up just as he pointed the rifle at her face and pulled the trigger. His youngest sister was killed instantly. Butch aimed his weapon at Dawn's head as well, blowing off the left side of her face.

The police reported that all six victims were found on their stomachs with their heads resting on their arms.

It was just after 3:00 a.m. In less than fifteen minutes, Ronald "Butch" DeFeo, Jr., had brutally killed every member of his family in cold blood. Butch calmly showered, trimmed his beard, and dressed in jeans and work boots. He then gathered his bloody clothing and the rifle, wrapped them up in a pillowcase, and left the house in his car. Butch drove into Brooklyn, and threw the pillowcase and its contents into a storm drain. He then returned to Long Island, and reported to work at his grandfather's Buick dealership.

Butch DeFeo's Trial

Butch tried to blame a Mafia hit man whom he claimed had a vendetta against him. The detectives grew suspicious when they found an empty gun box in his bedroom that matched the murder weapon. His story came apart after hours of interrogation. "It all started so fast. Once I started, I just couldn't stop. It went so fast," he confessed.

When asked during his trial why he had done such a thing Butch replied, "As far as I'm concerned, if I didn't kill my family, they were going to kill me. And as far as I'm concerned, what I did was self defence and there was nothing wrong with it. When I got a gun in my hand, there's no doubt in my mind who I am. I am God."

DeFeo was put on trial for the killings and attempted a defense of insanity, which was supported by his psychiatrist, Doctor Daniel Schwartz. The psychiatrist for the prosecution, Doctor Harold Zolan, maintained that although DeFeo had an antisocial personality disorder and was an abuser of heroin and LSD, he was aware of what he was doing at the time of the crime.

DeFeo was convicted on six counts of second degree murder on November 21, 1975 and is currently serving a 25 years to life sentence at Green Haven Correctional Facility in Beekman, New York. The court found that Ronald DeFeo Jnr.'s motive for murdering his family was the US$200,000 insurance that was payable to him.

Even though Butch was found guilty of six counts of second-degree murder, many questions still remain about what really happened on that tragic night in November. Why didn't the children run after hearing the first shots? Why were the victims all found lying on their stomachs? Why didn't the neighbours hear the shots?

It was said that he drugged the family at dinner time so they would not awaken as he moved from room to room shooting each one with the rifle, although the autopsies discredited this theory. The police believed that the house muffled the sound of the shots, however, many people who have been in the house reported that street noise could be heard from inside.

According to gun experts, the sound of a .35 Marlin Rifle can be heard from a mile away, yet neighbours claim that the only sound they heard was the barking of the DeFeo family dog.

To this day Butch continues to change his story. Being a habitual liar, it is still unclear what role he played in the murders and whether he acted alone. For many, the truth remains to be told and investigations are in progress that may shed light on the validity of his story.

Just over a year after the DeFeo's murders, a family of 5 moved into the DeFeo's old house, 112 Ocean Avenue, on the 18th December, 1975.

George and Katy Lutz, together with her 3 children from a previous marriage, Daniel, Christopher, and Missy moved into the sprawling house which had cost them just $80,000, and they loved it.

The Lutz Family

George Lutz said that the house was a dream come true. Even though the house had been the scene of a horrific multiple murder a little over a year before, when 23-year-old Ronnie DeFeo went from room to room methodically shooting his parents and his four brothers and sisters in their beds. The Lutzes sat down with their three young children and agreed the family could handle it.

Just to be on the safe side, the day the Lutzes moved in they had a priest, Father Ray Pecoraro, bless the house. While the priest was blessing the house as the family move in, a strange masculine voice clearly said to him "Get out!". Then, Lutz says, Pecoraro became ill with flu-like symptoms and his hands began to bleed.

As he drove back to the rectory, the bonnet of the priest's car flew open, smashing against his windscreen. One of the welded hinges tore loose. The right door flew open. The car stalled. The priest summoned a friend for help. Later the windscreen wipers, began to fly back and forth like crazy and couldn't be stopped.

The family moved in anyway, but within days they began to notice strange phenomena. The Lutz family lived in the house for only 28 days, before they fled one night claiming it was haunted. They never returned to the house for their possessions and have not been back to this day.

Every time the family priest, Father Ray Pecoraro, would attempt to help the Lutzes, bleeding blisters would erupt on his hands. Telephone calls between the Lutzes and the priest were continually interrupted or cut off by loud noises and eerie sounds, making it impossible for them to talk.

The Living Room

There were strange odours in the house that came and went. The Lutzes said there were lots of strange sounds. The front door would slam shut in the middle of the night, even though it had been locked shut. George Lutz couldn't get warm in the house for many days. George kept the fireplace burning day and night in a futile attempt to stay warm.

Windows were constantly opening by themselves, then slamming closed. Doors were often torn off their hinges. In the house windows flew up and down slamming shut and doors were repeatedly ripped off their hinges in the house even though they were securely locked.

Mrs. Lutz would often feel invisible hands grabbing her. She once found red marks where the hands had been.Mrs. Lutz continued to feel invisible hands gripping her and one day found flaming red welts covering her body, like she had been burned by a hot poker.

A sticky substance often oozed from the ceilings, stairs and the door edges. The insides of the toilet bowls in two upstairs bathrooms turned absolutely black, as though someone has painted them from the bottom to the edge just below the rim. Mrs. Lutz had scrubbed both bowls with Clorox but could not remove the substance.

The sticky ooze flowing down the stairs-taken from the original film

A white-hooded figure with its face half-blasted away as if by a gun appeared in the living room fireplace. Its image was permanently burned into the fireplace wall.

Just 28 days after they moved in, the Lutz family fled the house, leaving their clothes in the closets and food in the refrigerator. If the family had not left, Lutz said he believed that something horrible would have happened.

Poltergiest Activity

Lutz claims that he mysteriously woke at 3:15 a.m. almost every night, around the same time the DeFeo murders were believed to have happened. One night, , he heard his children's beds slamming up and down on the floor above him but he was unable to do anything because he was held in his bed by an unseen force. Later that night, he woke to see his wife levitating and moving across the bed. Kathy Lutz levitated about 30 centimetres above her bed on several occasions.

On one occasion, she began levitated and floated toward the open window. When her George tried to pull her down, her 30-year-old face transformed into that of a 90-year-old, toothless woman. Her hair was wild, a shocking white, and her face was a mass of wrinkles and ugly lines and saliva dripping from the toothless mouth.

The Amityville House

In the dead of winter, hundreds of buzzing flies materialized in one of the upstairs rooms on the first floor of the house. A crucifix that Kathy had hung on a wall in a closet revolved until it was upside down, and had been leaking a strange black liquid. The liquid gave off a horrible sour smell.

Lutz discovered a small secret room in the basement, a room that appeared in no blueprints of the house. It was painted solid red - and had the smell of blood. In one of the red walls, Lutz saw a vision of a demonic face. He later recognized the face was that of Ronald DeFeo, from newspaper photographs.

A bartender who had worked at a party in the house at 112 Ocean Avenue when the DeFeo's had lived there told Lutz that he had found the secret red room in the basement. He stated that he had nightmares about it for years. He told him that sometimes he'd dream that people were killing dogs and pigs in there and using their blood for some kind of ceremony."

While standing outside the house one night, Lutz saw the face of a pig with glowing red eyes in the window of his daughter, Missy. Missy began to continually talk of "my friend Jodie, the biggest pig you ever saw."

One night, Missy pointed out of the windows at two red eyes that were staring in. She told her mother that it was Jodie, and he wanted to come inside. Mrs. Lutz then threw a chair through the window. She reported that there was a cry like that of a wounded animal, a long squealing.

The eyes appeared later by the window near the staircase. When George Lutz ran outside, he noticed tracks in the snow in front of the window. No man or woman could make such a mark. The prints were made by something like a giant pig.

[6waypowerstrip]

The use of umbilical cord blood is increasing like anything in the healthcare industry

The use of umbilical cord blood is increasing like anything in the healthcare industry. The reason is that it contains the highly valuable stem cells that support your body to re-generate various kinds of cells, tissues, and organs if damaged due to ailments. This is the reason why cord blood is also considered regenerative medicine. The umbilical cords of newborn babies which were discarded once as waste have now been discovered as a great source to treat life-threatening diseases like cancer (leukemia and lymphoma), tumors, anemia, inherited metabolic disorders, etc. of children and adults. The FDA has approved transplantation of cord blood to treat around 80 diseases while further research is continuing to unveil its potential to treat the diseases like Alzheimer's and more.

Considering the great importance of cord blood banking, an increasing number of possible parents like you speak to their GYN-OBY and doctors for the collection and preservation of their newborn’s cord blood. However, during this process, the questions that may come to your mind are – whether to consider a private or public bank for storing the stem cells, how to choose a dependable community, and stem cell banking costs. When it comes to the cost factor, the answer lies in the objective of your cord blood banking. First of all, cord blood banking in public banks is meant for donation purposes, and for this, you don’t have to pay anything. Before a public bank accepts your baby’s cord blood, you will have to officially forgo your right on the valuable stem cells. So, when the objective of storing your baby’s blood is to ensure the wellbeing of your child and family loved, then you should always go for a reputable private bank. Similarly, while choosing a private bank, you need to consider the reliability, level of services, process, and method of preservation that practically determine stem cell banking costs.

Factors That Influence the CostRecognition Make sure to research the background of the establishment and its reliability in terms of location, ease of access, the process of China 4 Way Garden Socket Wholesale functioning, preservation system before you decide on cord blood banking with them. It should be fitted with the globally valued certifications from authorities including FDA, AABB, apart from the Department of Public Health, etc. Having these certifications and official recognition testifies the expertise level, reliability of services, preservation system of the private blood bank is up to the standard. Hi-tech Research and Preservation SystemConsidering the importance of cord blood banking for the wellbeing of your family, make sure that the community is fitted with high-tech labs and analysts and technicians with in-depth knowledge to examine the blood samples with due diligence before they are taken for storage. Make sure that the community adheres to a cryopreservation storage system whereas your baby’s stem cells need to be preserved in a container of liquid nitrogen maintaining a temperature of -170-degree C.