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April 2012: The Lungs
Hospitals Profit from Infections
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[23/05/2013] Johns Hopkins researchers report that hospitals may be reaping enormous income for patients whose hospital stays are complicated by preventable bloodstream infections contracted in their intensive care units. Hospitals Profit from Infections - Read more
Fewer Unnecessary Early Deliveries
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[10/04/2013] A new study shows that multistate, hospital-based quality improvement programs can be remarkably effective at reducing early elective deliveries of babies. Fewer Unnecessary Early Deliveries - Read more
CyberKnife: “It is currently the only system that is routinely used worldwide to compensate for breathing-induced motion”
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[13/03/2013] Even if the name “CyberKnife” is reminiscent of a scalpel and surgery, the precision radiation performed by the robotic radiosurgery system is a non-invasive treatment option for many tumor patients. Aside from precision robotics as it is also known in the automotive industry, the CyberKnife features an image guidance system and respiratory compensation technology.CyberKnife: “It is currently the only system that is routinely used worldwide to compensate for breathing-induced motion” - Read more
Improving Floor Design Against Fatigue
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[04/02/2013] In hospitals, poor floor design, storage closet clutter and crowded corridors can contribute to staff fatigue. These distractions can hurt patient care quality and result in higher medical costs. A new study offers a spatial solution. Improving Floor Design Against Fatigue - Read more
Intimately in Tune with the Latest Technology
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[01/02/2013] Progress in medical fields has been enormous. The skills physicians and other medical personnel acquired during their studies or training is no longer sufficient for their daily job routine. Medical technology in particular is constantly evolving. Many colleges and universities have discovered this market niche and offer continuing education in medical technology. Intimately in Tune with the Latest Technology - Read more
Unsafe High-risk Medical Devices on the Market
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[23/01/2013] Technological advancements in medicine have allowed patients suffering from musculoskeletal conditions such as hip and knee pain to regain mobility and live relatively pain-free. But some "high risk" surgical devices that have been approved by the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are not required to go through clinical trials. Unsafe High-risk Medical Devices on the Market - Read more
The Key to Medication Adherence
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[10/01/2013] Study shows patients who give their doctors high marks in communication more likely to fill prescriptions. The work suggests preparing doctors to be better communicators may help improve medication adherence and ultimately health outcomes. The Key to Medication Adherence - Read more
Ties to Fewer Hospitals Work Better
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[09/01/2013] Experience working for a particular hospital matters when it comes to the performance of radiologists who work for outsourcing teleradiology companies. This finding could have important implications, given the growing use of telemedicine. Ties to Fewer Hospitals Work Better - Read more
Hydrogen Peroxide Vapor Enhances Disinfection
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[03/01/2013] Infection control experts at The Johns Hopkins Hospital have found that a combination of robot-like devices that disperse a bleaching agent into the air and then detoxify the disinfecting chemical are highly effective at killing and preventing the spread of multiple-drug-resistant bacteria, or so-called hospital superbugs. Hydrogen Peroxide Vapor Enhances Disinfection - Read more
Study Reports Racial Disparities in Treatment
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[02/01/2013] When researchers investigated the link between racial disparities and appendicitis outcomes in children, they found that the type of hospital —community, children's or county— affects the patients’ odds of developing a perforated appendix. Study Reports Racial Disparities in Treatment - Read more
Guidelines to Fight Infections after Surgery
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[13/12/2012] Multispecialty physician teams need to work together to reduce disability, death and costs associated with the ever-growing number of prosthetic joint infections, note the first guidelines on the topic being released by the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA). Guidelines to Fight Infections after Surgery - Read more
Finding Physicians May Be Problematic
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[06/12/2012] Implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is expected to result in up to 50 million currently uninsured Americans acquiring some type of health insurance coverage. However, newly insured patients may have trouble finding primary care physicians. Finding Physicians May Be Problematic - Read more
Defining Career Paths to Improve Systems
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[05/12/2012] The sheer number of efforts aimed at improving the quality and efficiency of the health care system in United States – ranging from portions of the national Affordable Care Act to local programs at individual hospitals and practices – reflects the urgency and importance of the task. Defining Career Paths to Improve Systems - Read more
"The dynorphin opioid receptor system decreases the intensity of stress memory“
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[03/12/2012] Forgetting stressful events isn’t always easy, especially when they have been deeply committed to human memory. Scientists at the Universities of Bonn and Berlin have now discovered a mechanism that inhibits the ability to forget fear after a stressful incident. They demonstrated in experiments that subsiding fear does not happen if not enough dynorphin is dumped in the brain. "The dynorphin opioid receptor system decreases the intensity of stress memory“ - Read more
Young Surgeons Face Special Concerns
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[03/12/2012] A study has found that young, less-experienced surgeons made major surgical mistakes almost half the time during a "simulated" gall bladder removal when they were distracted by noises, questions, conversation or other commotion in the operating room. Young Surgeons Face Special Concerns - Read more
More Involvement in Decision-Making Necessary
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[30/11/2012] Everywhere, there is a clear need for the systematic improvement of patient safety. Patient safety cannot be improved by simply making new rules. A new model of adaptive safety-management is already being used at Vaasa Central Hospital in Vaasa, Finland. More Involvement in Decision-Making Necessary - Read more
Options for Leaders to Reduce Costs
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[16/11/2012] Alliance to Reduce Disparities in Diabetes calls for national decision makers to consider local experience in reducing disparities in diabetes as health reform implementation advances. Options for Leaders to Reduce Costs - Read more
Experts Call for More Rigorous Evidence
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[26/10/2012] Leading clinicians and health researchers from across Europe say much greater emphasis must be placed on the scientific evidence for the effectiveness of treatments and other healthcare interventions to ensure patients receive the best care available. Experts Call for More Rigorous Evidence - Read more
Fewer Patient Deaths After Surgery
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[23/10/2012] Patients treated in magnet hospitals (specially designated for their nursing excellence) had 14 percent lower odds of death than those in non-magnet hospitals in a four-state study of 564 hospitals led by the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing. Fewer Patient Deaths After Surgery - Read more
“Hands are playing the most important role in conveying pathogens“
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[23/10/2012] According to the German Federal Ministry of Health (Bundesministerium für Gesundheit, BMG) there are around 600,000 hospital infections every year in Germany alone, which result in 15,000 deaths. According to the Federal Ministry of Health, 20 to 30 percent of the infections and deaths would be preventable by adhering to well-known rules of hygiene. “Hands are playing the most important role in conveying pathogens“ - Read more
New Way of Imaging Lungs
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[10/10/2012] A new approach to lung scanning could improve the diagnosis and treatment of a lung disease that affects approximately 24 million Americans and is the country's third-highest cause of death. New Way of Imaging Lungs - Read more
T-Systems: Making mobile medical rounds with Smartphones and tablets
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[01/10/2012] More and more hospital employees appreciate the potential of mobile working with Smartphones and tablets. Quick access to clinical data in day-to-day work life streamlines information search processes, can relieve physicians and supports the quality of medical care of patients. Deutsche (German)Telekom presents new solutions for healthcare. T-Systems: Making mobile medical rounds with Smartphones and tablets - Read more
Scanner Prototype Represents Soft Tissue
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[12/09/2012] A promising approach for producing medical images with enhanced soft tissue visibility — grating-based x-ray phase contrast — has now advanced from bench-top studies to implementation in an in vivo preclinical computed tomography scanner. Scanner Prototype Represents Soft Tissue - Read more
”A unique benchmarking database for hospitals has been developed over the past ten years“
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[03/09/2012] Hospitals have to fulfill many requirements, for instance in the area of hygiene, but at the same time they are supposed to work efficiently. This balancing act is easier to master with so-called hospital facility management. Professor Kunibert Lennerts from the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) has developed a database with which hospitals are able to get information about their costs. ”A unique benchmarking database for hospitals has been developed over the past ten years“ - Read more
Investing in Quality of Care Reduces Costs
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[20/08/2012] University of Minnesota School of Public Health researchers have found that medical group practices can reduce costs for patients with diabetes by investing in improved quality of care. Investing in Quality of Care Reduces Costs - Read more
"Active therapy can ultimately delay the mobility disability"
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[01/08/2012] For the longest time, a specifically developed physiotherapy treatment for Parkinson’s patients was not being adequately considered. Yet goal-oriented therapy can alleviate and delay mobility disability. The sooner you start these newly developed types of physiotherapy training, the faster you can get results. "Active therapy can ultimately delay the mobility disability" - Read more
Relieving Respiratory Distress
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[10/07/2012] If a person‘s windpipe is constricted, an operation in which the surgeon inserts a stent to enlarge the trachea is often the only way to relieve their respiratory distress. Relieving Respiratory Distress - Read more
Good News for Aging Eyes
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[06/07/2012] Today’s senior citizens are reporting fewer visual impairment problems than their counterparts from a generation ago, according to a new Northwestern Medicine study. Good News for Aging Eyes - Read more
"There is an enormous automation in laboratory techniques"
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[08/06/2012] The function of systems biology is to treat organs and biological organisms as a whole. In doing so, researchers among other things examine interactions and different aspects of the human cell. This still young discipline creates interfaces to biology, mathematics and physics to be able to understand regulatory processes for cells, tissues and organisms and thus get an integrated idea. "There is an enormous automation in laboratory techniques" - Read more
”Interoperability is still not developed“
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[01/06/2012] Exchanging medical topics through digital media is rapidly on the rise. Health apps in particular, offer interested people and patients a medical overall service package: whether it is measuring vital signs, the prevention of falling in patients with Parkinson’s disease or providing recommendations for healthy eating. ”Interoperability is still not developed“ - Read more
US Spends Far More for Health Care Than 12 Industrialised Nations
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[04/05/2012] The United States spends more on health care than 12 other industrialised countries yet does not provide "notably superior" care, according to a new study from The Commonwealth Fund. US Spends Far More for Health Care Than 12 Industrialised Nations - Read more
"The understanding for the respective other side is missing in part"
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[02/05/2012] For some time, the German Crisis Pregnancy Act that regulates the information and advice for the prenatal diagnosis in special cases, for example evidence of damage to the physical and mental health of the unborn child, is integrated into the German day-to-day practise. However, slowly, criticism is growing on the part of physicians. Bureaucracy and the daily workload seems to be increasing. "The understanding for the respective other side is missing in part" - Read more
”It was and is our aspiration to structure residency training and education“
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[02/05/2012] What can future medical specialists expect during the time of their training and education, which areas will they have gotten to know and what quality is attached to the apprenticeship. Depending on the hospital and location in Germany, this question has to be answered differently. ”It was and is our aspiration to structure residency training and education“ - Read more
"Global interconnectedness makes uniform traceability systems necessary"
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[23/04/2012] In order to design safety standards and traceability of medical devices more professionally in the future, international committees are currently working on a new identification system that could apply worldwide in the future. In doing so, products could be identified during their entire life cycle. "Global interconnectedness makes uniform traceability systems necessary" - Read more
Pneumonia as reflected in modern medicine
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[02/04/2012] Pneumonia is a classic among infectious diseases. Hippocrates already described an illness whose symptoms included coughing followed by pneumonia but today would more resemble an influenza virus. Sir William Osler, considered to be the father of modern medicine, characterized it as “Captain of the Men of Death“ at the start of the 20th century. And what about today? Pneumonia as reflected in modern medicine - Read more
Air Emissions Near Fracking Sites May Impact Health
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[19/03/2012] In a new study, researchers from the Colorado School of Public Health have shown that air pollution caused by hydraulic fracturing or fracking may contribute to acute and chronic health problems for those living near natural gas drilling sites. Air Emissions Near Fracking Sites May Impact Health - Read more
Increasing of Death Risk in Coronary Stent Patients
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[16/03/2012] After seven years of follow up, depressed patients were 1.5 times more likely to have died than non-depressed patients. The findings were independent of age, gender, clinical characteristics, anxiety and the distressed (Type D) personality. Increasing of Death Risk in Coronary Stent Patients - Read more
Body Clocks May Hold Key for Treatment
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[14/03/2012] Scientists have gained insight into why lithium salts are effective at treating bipolar disorder in what could lead to more targeted therapies with fewer side-effects. Body Clocks May Hold Key for Treatment - Read more
More Children Living with 'Life-limiting' Conditions
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[12/03/2012] The number of children with conditions such as muscular dystrophy, neurodegenerative disorders or severe cerebral palsy who are surviving into adulthood has been underestimated, a new study led from the University of Leeds shows. More Children Living with 'Life-limiting' Conditions - Read more
Protein Identified that Can Lengthen Our Life
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[02/03/2012] Cells use various methods to break down and recycle worn-out components – autophagy is one of them. Karin Håberg of the Umeå University, Sweden, shows that the protein SNX18 is required for cells to be able to perform autophagy. Protein Identified that Can Lengthen Our Life - Read more
“If you fail early, you will reach your goal faster“
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[01/03/2012] Medical devices are becoming increasingly complex and develop faster and faster technically. Modern medicine would be unthinkable without the use of new and more delicate equipment. But there can also be risks to patients, since a comprehensible handling cannot be guaranteed in all cases – it can’t even be excluded in experienced medical specialists. “If you fail early, you will reach your goal faster“ - Read more
Recognising the Early Stages of Alzheimer‘s Disease
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[01/02/2012] Diagnosing advanced Alzheimer‘s nowadays is no longer difficult. And yet, to detect the so-called “progressive neurodegenerative brain disease with memory loss as the leading symptom“ early on, basic diagnostic methods are not sufficient. Recognising the Early Stages of Alzheimer‘s Disease - Read more
Surgical Breast Biopsy Not Overused
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[01/02/2012] Contrary to earlier findings, surgical breast biopsies may not be as overused as previously thought, according to a new study. Surgical breast biopsies are more invasive than needle biopsies, requiring an incision and the use of general anaesthesia. Surgical Breast Biopsy Not Overused - Read more
Radiation Therapy Improves Patients' Quality of Life
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[30/01/2012] Patients with head and neck cancers who have been treated with newer, more sophisticated radiation therapy technology enjoy a better quality of life than those treated with older radiation therapy equipment, a study by UC Davis researchers has found. Radiation Therapy Improves Patients' Quality of Life - Read more
Mediterranean Diet Gives Longer Life
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[21/12/2011] A Mediterranean diet with large amounts of vegetables and fish gives a longer life. This is the unanimous result of four studies to be published by the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg. Mediterranean Diet Gives Longer Life - Read more
Malaria Patients Vulnerable to Deadly Infection
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[20/12/2011] The link between malaria and salmonella infections has been explained for the first time, opening the way to more effective treatments. Malaria Patients Vulnerable to Deadly Infection - Read more
Lying and Sitting More Comfortably
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[13/12/2011] People who have to sit at work often have back pain. People permanently confined to bed are even worse off – they frequently develop bed sores. New smart cushioning is intended to eliminate the discomforts of lying and sitting. An integrated sensor system equalises pressure selectively. Lying and Sitting More Comfortably - Read more
New Disinfection Technique
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[12/12/2011] A Queen’s University infectious disease expert has collaborated in the development of a disinfection system that may change the way hospital rooms all over the world are cleaned as well as stop bed bug outbreaks in hotels and apartments. New Disinfection Technique - Read more
“Data protection for the insured person is unquestionably guaranteed”
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[08/12/2011] Since October 2011, Germany’s electronic health insurance card (“elektronische Gesundheitskarte” eGK) has been adopted into the everyday lives of patients and physicians for good. After a long and tedious process, it finally meets the required regulations to ensure data protection for the insured. “Data protection for the insured person is unquestionably guaranteed” - Read more
Body Weight, Sleep-disordered Breathing and Cognition Linked
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[04/11/2011] Researchers at the University of Chicago have found important new relationships between obesity, sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) and cognitive processing among elementary school children. Body Weight, Sleep-disordered Breathing and Cognition Linked - Read more
"Among experts we focus far too little on the basics"
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[02/11/2011] If a wound does not heal within four to twelve weeks after emergence, doctors call it a chronic wound. In many cases underlying diseases such as venous or vascular disease or diabetes mellitus are the cause. A successful therapy, however, still presents a challenge and requires an interdisciplinary cooperation. "Among experts we focus far too little on the basics" - Read more
Reducing Risk of Suffering Allergy
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[17/10/2011] Today, about one in four European children suffer from allergy, which makes this disease the non-infectious epidemic of the 21st century. Evidence suggests that lifestyle factors and nutritional patterns, such as breastfeeding, help to reduce the early symptoms of allergy. Reducing Risk of Suffering Allergy - Read more
"You can learn a lot in many different areas from each other"
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[01/09/2011] To be able to fight resistant hospital bacteria effectively and for the long term, it is getting more and more important to collaborate throughout Europe and internationally with different stakeholders of medical facilities. Now one European project is making this its primary goal. The German-Dutch collaboration is meant to strengthen patient safety and protection against infections. "You can learn a lot in many different areas from each other" - Read more
Medical Science and Technology against hospital-acquired Infections
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[01/09/2011] Time and again it sweeps through the media and we hear of serious diseases, like for instance MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), which attack patients in hospitals. Needless to say these diseases happen, but they have long ago come to the forefront of hygiene experts, who fight with a vengeance to prevent essentially “man-made” infections in clinics and hospital facilities. Medical Science and Technology against hospital-acquired Infections - Read more
Chocolate Linked to Heart Health
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[30/08/2011] High levels of chocolate consumption might be associated with a one-third reduction in the risk of developing heart disease, finds a study published on bmj.com. Chocolate Linked to Heart Health - Read more
Sutureless Method for Joining Blood Vessels
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[29/08/2011] Reconnecting severed blood vessels is mostly done the same way today — with sutures — as it was 100 years ago, when the French surgeon Alexis Carrel won a Nobel Prize for advancing the technique. Now, a team of researchers at the Stanford University School of Medicine has developed a sutureless method that appears to be a faster, safer and easier alternative. Sutureless Method for Joining Blood Vessels - Read more
Giving Amputees a Natural Gait
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[19/08/2011] A new lower-limb prosthetic developed at Vanderbilt University allows amputees to walk without the leg-dragging gait characteristic of conventional artificial legs. Giving Amputees a Natural Gait - Read more
Dementia: An underestimated problem
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[01/08/2011] Dementia is a disorder caused by malfunctions in brain performance, from which in Germany alone approximately 1.2 million people are suffering from. Since dementia mostly appears in the third phase in one’s life and the number of affected people is increasing constantly, all industrial nations are facing entirely new challenges.Dementia: An underestimated problem - Read more
“The procedure is minimally traumatic“
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[22/07/2011] The da Vinci Surgical System revolutionizes the job in the operating room. For several months, surgeons at the RWTH Aachen University have worked with the da Vinci Surgical System. Here, the surgeon no longer stands alongside the patient, but instead works at a console from which he operates the surgical instruments inside the patient. “The procedure is minimally traumatic“ - Read more
"Research has to be interdisciplinary"
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[08/07/2011] The number of heart failure disease has increased for years. Drugs and a change in lifestyle can help the affected person, but a cure is still not in sight. That’s why it is all the more important to research the origins of heart disease as well as develop suitable strategies for prevention. These are some of the objectives the German Center for Heart Failure has committed itself to. "Research has to be interdisciplinary" - Read more
Better Quality of Life and Less Depression
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[15/06/2011] Getting six to nine hours of sleep per night is associated with higher ratings for quality of life and lower ratings for depression. Better Quality of Life and Less Depression - Read more
Separate Methods for Handling Evidence Neither Identifiable Nor Required
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[02/05/2011] People with rare diseases have the same right to high-quality health care in line with current medical knowledge as other patients do. However, relevant and reliable clinical studies on rare diseases are often lacking. Among other things, this makes the development of corresponding guidelines more difficult, but precisely such guidelines could help improve treatment quality. Separate Methods for Handling Evidence Neither Identifiable Nor Required - Read more
“Sadly, humanity will fall by the wayside“
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[22/04/2011] Rural exodus is not just a well-known German problem, but happens all over the world. In the foreseeable future, this development will have a negative impact on the rural infrastructure and with it also on medical care. The fact remains: Many physicians prefer the city and a country atmosphere doesn’t do much for them. “Sadly, humanity will fall by the wayside“ - Read more
Blood Test Could Predict Metastasis Risk
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[18/04/2011] Scientists at Yale University have identified a set of plasma biomarkers that could reasonably predict the risk of metastasis among patients with melanoma. Blood Test Could Predict Metastasis Risk - Read more
Brain Speeds Up Learning
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[15/04/2011] In a breakthrough that may aid treatment of learning impairments, strokes, tinnitus and chronic pain, UT Dallas researchers have found that brain nerve stimulation accelerates learning in laboratory tests. Brain Speeds Up Learning - Read more
Relation to Hip Osteoporosis in Postmenopausal Women
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[30/03/2011] Women with osteoporosis in their hip suffer menopause two years earlier than healthy women, a study conducted at the University of Granada says. Additionally, researchers have found at least three genetic markers associated with osteoporosis in the hip in postmenopausal women. Relation to Hip Osteoporosis in Postmenopausal Women - Read more
Due to Lack of Support From Partner
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[14/03/2011] Pregnancy is meant to be a joyous time however some women experience overwhelming 'baby blues' before the birth of their child. Anxiety and depression during pregnancy can result in premature birth, or low birth weight, and impact the child's health into early school years. New research shows that a bad relationship is the strongest predictor of maternal emotional distress. Due to Lack of Support From Partner - Read more
Providing a 'Red Alert' for Women's Hearts
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[08/03/2011] Today on International Women's Day, the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) is calling for action to reduce the gender disparities that are currently resulting in women receiving second rate cardiovascular (CV) care. Studies published show a persistent under-utilisation of guideline recommended treatments for heart disease in women compared to men. Providing a 'Red Alert' for Women's Hearts - Read more
Learning to handle emergencies
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[01/03/2011] An emergency is a situation that requires immediate assistance – this is how the Duden, Germany’s definitive directory on orthography specifies it. However, this cut and dry sentence cannot reflect the amount of feelings people are subjected to in emergency situations. All the more admirable are those people who stay calm in the face of an emergency. Learning to handle emergencies - Read more
Focus on Decision Making When Doctor Is a Woman
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[25/02/2011] A study conducted reveals that patients have greater expectations of their family doctor listening actively to them, keeping them informed and considering their opinions than in getting involved in decision making. Focus on Decision Making When Doctor Is a Woman - Read more
Family of Proteins Essential for Cell Function
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[24/02/2011] Researchers have completed the 3D structural sequence adopted by several essential proteins in the exchange of substances between the extra and intracellular milieu. Family of Proteins Essential for Cell Function - Read more
Prevention of Metastasis
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[10/02/2011] Tumor cells have several routes that enable them to move from the primary tumor to distant tissues, a process called metastasis. It is metastasis of the primary tumor that kills most cancer patients. Prevention of Metastasis - Read more
Vitamin D Absorption Diminished
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[19/01/2011] Researchers have for the first time shown that reduced vitamin D absorption in patients with quiescent Crohn's disease (CD) may be the cause for their increased risk for vitamin D deficiency. The findings also showed that the only way to determine absorption efficiency is to perform a vitamin D bioavailability test. Vitamin D Absorption Diminished - Read more
Sex, Race, and Geography Influence Health
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[18/01/2011] Women, nonwhites, and people in the southern United States who were newly infected with HIV and followed for an average of four years experienced greater HIV/AIDS-related morbidity compared to men and people of other races living in other regions of the country. Sex, Race, and Geography Influence Health - Read more
A ship’s surgeon in the 17th century
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[03/01/2011] Discovering foreign countries, getting to know new civilizations. What’s possible for many today, in the 17th century was an adventure few dared to embark on. Back then, moving from one continent to another was only possible by ship. But journeys that often lasted many months were often also very perilous – and generally no trained physicians were on board the ship. A ship’s surgeon in the 17th century - Read more
“At first there is the experimental research“
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[03/01/2011] For centuries many different types of remedies to soothe the suffering and pain of people have been known. Nonetheless, the search for pain free, reversible anesthesia took a while. Not until the 19th century was the first progressive anesthesia possible and paved the way for modern surgery. “At first there is the experimental research“ - Read more
More Time Sick Than A Decade Ago
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[14/12/2010] Increased life expectancy in the United States has not been accompanied by more years of perfect health. More Time Sick Than A Decade Ago - Read more
Lead to More Active Lives
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[28/10/2010] Experts at the University of Surrey discovered that many older people felt that they may be branded lazy for taking afternoon naps so they tried hard to avoid nodding off. Lead to More Active Lives - Read more
Development of Implanted Device
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[22/10/2010] Success could spur new treatment approach for millions of people who suffer vestibular problems. Development of Implanted Device - Read more
“Communication is the central tenet in medical science“
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[22/10/2010] Just like in modern society, the image of physicians is also subject to different developments. The physician’s profession has to constantly meet new challenges. It is particularly difficult to reconcile role perceptions, which have increasingly become more differentiated due to the modern science- and health care system. “Communication is the central tenet in medical science“ - Read more
Nicotine Could Play A Role
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[14/10/2010] Stimulating the brain's Alpha7 nicotine receptor may eliminate side effects caused by promising Alzheimer's drug. Nicotine Could Play A Role - Read more
“It Is Important That The Methodology Is Right“
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[22/09/2010] Initially it is a puzzle made up of small pieces or an assumption that question established diagnostics and therapy methods. Yet not always do the individual components add up to the desired shape. Being the core of evidence-based medicine, clinical trials are admittedly indispensable for the systematic development and quality inspection of pharmaceuticals and surgical- and radiation methods. “It Is Important That The Methodology Is Right“ - Read more
Contribution to Health Disparities in Kidney Disease
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[17/09/2010] Processed and fast foods enriched with phosphorus additives may play a role in health disparities in chronic kidney disease. Contribution to Health Disparities in Kidney Disease - Read more
New Frontier in Fighting Cancer
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[02/09/2010] A "game-changing" technique using near infrared light enables scientists to look deeper into the guts of cells, potentially opening up a new frontier in the fights against cancer and many other diseases. New Frontier in Fighting Cancer - Read more
Repairing Hearts
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[17/08/2010] Mayo Clinic investigators have demonstrated that rationally "guided" human adult stem cells can effectively heal, repair and regenerate damaged heart tissue. Repairing Hearts - Read more
Gene Brings Teeth in Shape
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[06/08/2010] No healthy teeth without this gene: if during tooth formation (odontogenesis) the so-called Jagged2 gene is inactivated, and hence the Notch signalling pathway interrupted, tooth crowns will be malformed and enamel will be lacking. Gene Brings Teeth in Shape - Read more
“The Body of Experts Needs to Close Ranks“
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[22/07/2010] It’s the “I” rather than the “we” that’s most important in personalised medicine. After all, new methods should offer an individually targeted treatment for patients. Many developments however are still in their infancy. Several players are cavorting in the subject, but what is the central theme here and where are knowledge and new research results being exchanged? “The Body of Experts Needs to Close Ranks“ - Read more
Click Me – Fair Grades for Doctors
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[01/07/2010] With its suggestion to grade doctors on the Internet, the German National Health provider AOK caused a big stir one year ago. Supporters expected more transparency and quality health care from this. Critics feared that physicians are being put on a digital chopping block. Now the first step was made. Whether hopes are being fulfilled or fears prove to be true: MEDICA.de has taken a closer look. Click Me – Fair Grades for Doctors - Read more
“Quality Requires Transparency“
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[01/07/2010] The introduction of quality standards in hospitals is in vogue. This does not just apply to legally required records, but also for “self-imposed“ quality management. For some hospitals the competition has just started: They publish and analyze data and face direct comparison. It still is disputed how quality can be measured best. “Quality Requires Transparency“ - Read more
“Extensive service does not automatically mean higher premiums“
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[08/06/2010] Many patients get the feeling that they have to keep paying more for increasingly worse service. This is why all the commotion over the additionally levied premiums by the statutory health insurance was high in the past and remains so now. “Extensive service does not automatically mean higher premiums“ - Read more
“Aesthetics Is Not Everything“
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[08/04/2010] Coco Chanel, Calvin Klein, Karl Lagerfeld – they all cause a big stir in the fashion world. Design is also a topic in medical science. Here, it’s not just the visual appearance that counts. In medical design, it’s primarily about ergonomics of equipment and more safety for the patient. “Aesthetics Is Not Everything“ - Read more
May Last for More than 150 Years
[25/03/2010] Current body protheses do not last more than ten to 15 years. After this time, the operation has to be repeated in order to change prothesis. Researchers have now found a way of producing a prosthesis that could last more than 150 years. May Last for More than 150 Years - Read more
Images Speed Decision Making
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[05/03/2010] Embedding clinical images to accompany findings described in a radiology text report enhances radiologists' communication with referring physicians and can improve patient care, according to a new study. Images Speed Decision Making - Read more
Big Brother Is Integrated
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[01/03/2010] In former times, folded cartons were sufficient: pills were packed in boxes and given to the patient. This has not complied with modern standards for a long time. Medicine packaging is advancing and Smart Labels are all the rage: they are able to assure product quality as well as to protect against drug fakers.
Big Brother Is Integrated - Read more
Communication Was Successful, Patient Is Alive
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[01/03/2010] Medical study is full of dull theory. After completing their final University semester, most graduates have become walking medical encyclopedias. Still, mistakes in the operating room happen time and again. Usually the reason is not a physician‘s lack of medical knowledge. Communication is the key word here- and simulation dummies can help. Communication Was Successful, Patient Is Alive - Read more
Six-Point Patient Protection Plan
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[01/03/2010] The American Society for Radiation Oncology has committed to a six-point patient protection plan that is to improve safety and quality and reduce the chances of medical errors, Board Chairman Tim R. Williams said. Six-Point Patient Protection Plan - Read more
“Learning Early on that Everybody Makes Mistakes”
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[01/03/2010] “A man, who has made a mistake and doesn't correct it, just made another mistake.” This quote from Confucius also applies to doctors, since only being open-minded and dealing with mistakes prevents them. Matthias Schrappe is the Director of the Institute for Patient Safety in Bonn – the first facility of its kind in Germany. MEDICA.de talked with him about forgotten swabs, students and pilots.
“Learning Early on that Everybody Makes Mistakes” - Read more
Accreditation Improves Quality of Ultrasound Practice
( Source: MEDICA.de )
[22/07/2004] American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) accreditation increases the quality of ultrasound practice, according to an article published in the August 2004 issue of the Journal of Ultrasound in Medicine. Accreditation Improves Quality of Ultrasound Practice - Read more
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