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Imaging: revolutionizing cancer surgery
18.09.2019
Cancer treatment could be dramatically improved by an invention at the University of Waterloo to precisely locate the edges of tumors during surgery to remove them.
Commodities: needle-free flu vaccine patch
18.09.2019
A new needle-free flu vaccine patch revved up the immune system much like a traditional flu shot without any negative side effects, according to a study. Though the research is in the early stages, it's an important step toward a technology that could replace needle-based vaccination methods that require administration by health care workers and biohazard waste removal.
Sports medicine: GymCam tracks exercises that wearable monitors can't
17.09.2019
Wearable sensors such as smartwatches have become a popular motivational tool for fitness enthusiasts, but gadgets do not sense all exercises equally. Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have found that a stationary camera is a better choice for gym exercises.
Optical sensor: detects very low glucose concentrations
17.09.2019
The Optical Research Group of the Universitat Jaume I has developed an optical nanoparticle sensor capable of detecting very low glucose concentrations, such as those present in a person's tear, by means of fluorescent carbon quantum dots, applying synthesis of nanomaterials based on irradiation with ultra-short lasers, which is an alternative, sustainable and non-polluting method.
Wearables: new health monitors are flexible, transparent and graphene enabled
16.09.2019
New technological devices are prioritizing non-invasive tracking of vital signs not only for fitness monitoring, but also for the prevention of common health problems such as heart failure, hypertension, and stress related complications, among others.
Imaging: proton therapy for children with cancer
13.09.2019
From improving outcomes in children with brain cancer to lowering the risk of damage to the brainstem in children with central nervous system tumors, a pair of new studies published today add to the growing body of research showing the potential benefits of proton therapy.
Genetics: cardiac fibrosis study identifies key proteins
13.09.2019
Using cutting-edge technologies, researchers at Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, have developed the first genome-wide dataset on protein translation during fibroblast activation, revealing a network of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) that play a key role in the formation of disease-causing fibrous tissue in the heart.
Genetics: women's deep belly fat strongly linked to diabetes
12.09.2019
A comprehensive study from Uppsala University, with over 325,000 participants, shows that deep belly fat is a major contributing risk factor for developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Moreover, the scientists investigated how our genes affect the accumulation of fat and present a new, simpler method to estimate the amount of deep belly fat.
Wearables: reconfigurable electronics promising innovations
11.09.2019
Medical implants of the future may feature reconfigurable electronic platforms that can morph in shape and size dynamically as bodies change or transform to relocate from one area to monitor another within our bodies.
DNA: construction kit replaces expensive antibody medication
11.09.2019
Researchers at KU Leuven in Belgium have developed a technique to make sheep produce new antibodies simply by injecting the DNA building blocks. This approach is much cheaper and more efficient than producing antibodies industrially and administering them afterwards. The study in animals with a similar size as humans brings us a step closer to the clinical use of antibody gene therapy.
mHealth: app assessment for multiple sclerosis
10.09.2019
Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers report they have developed and validated a tablet-based app that offers a faster, easier and more accurate way for health care providers who don't have specialized training to assess the cognitive function of people with multiple sclerosis (MS).
Imaging: reducing lung cancer mortality
10.09.2019
A combination of the EarlyCDT-Lung Test followed by CT imaging in Scottish patients at risk for lung cancer resulted in a significant decrease in late stage diagnosis of lung cancer and may decrease lung cancer specific mortality, according to research presented at IASLC 2019 World Conference on Lung Cancer hosted by the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC).
Imaging: eye scan makes diseases visible at an early stage
09.09.2019
According to the World Health Organization, in four out of five cases age-related vision disorders could be avoided if they were diagnosed at an early stage. A European team of scientists, including the Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology (Leibniz IPHT) in Jena, has researched a new method that will enable doctors to better detect such eye diseases in the future.
Imaging: supporting cancer treatment monitoring
06.09.2019
A grant from the National Institutes of Health will support a biomedical engineering professor's pursuit of technologies that can identify treatment-resistant tumors early in the treatment process.
Stents: better protection against occluded blood vessels
06.09.2019
Cardiovascular stents are special implants used to widen blood vessels that have become constricted as a result of calcium deposits. In some cases, the body's immune system can reject these implants in a process known as foreign-body reaction. In a joint project with partners, Fraunhofer researchers have now developed enhanced coatings that substantially improve the biocompatibility of stents.
Prosthetics: electronic glove offers 'humanlike' features
04.09.2019
People with hand amputations experience difficult daily life challenges, often leading to lifelong use of a prosthetic hands and services. An electronic glove, or e-glove, developed by Purdue University researchers can be worn over a prosthetic hand to provide humanlike softness, warmth, appearance and sensory perception, such as the ability to sense pressure, temperature and hydration.
Sensors: diagnosing middle-ear infection with ultrasound
04.09.2019
A new type of ultrasound transducer from Fraunhofer should soon be delivering a fast and reliable diagnosis of infection of the middle ear. A U.S. company and the Fraunhofer IPMS are collaborating on the development and application of this technology. The transducer is integrated in an otoscope and helps physicians decide whether a course of antibiotics is really necessary.
Man vs. machine – the benefits of AI in imaging
02.09.2019
Radiology is a field that produces large volumes of data, which can no longer be managed without the help of intelligent systems. This is especially true when it comes to the interpretation of medical images. While this takes physicians years of training and experience, several hours of work and the highest level of concentration, AI only requires a few seconds to accomplish the same task.
Sensors: electronic skin technology for AI development
02.09.2019
DGIST announced on Wednesday, August 21 that Professor Jae Eun Jang's team in the Department of Information and Communication Engineering developed electronic skin technology that can detect "prick" and "hot" pain sensations like humans. This research result is expected to be applied on the development of humanoid robots and patients wearing prosthetic hands in the future.
AI in imaging: how machines manage our Big Data
02.09.2019
In modern medicine, especially in the field of imaging, huge amounts of data are produced – so much that radiologists can hardly keep up with diagnosing the images. Artificial Intelligence could be the solution to this problem. But how exactly can it help in this task? How can man and machine work together? And what else will be possible in the future with the support of intelligent systems?
AI in radiology: reliable partner for diagnosing CT images
02.09.2019
More patients, more examinations, more CT images – in radiology there is too much work for too few physicians. CT scans are evaluated in the shortest possible time, which leads to anomalies being overlooked. Artificial intelligence, on the other hand, works with constant speed and performance, which is why radiological routine increasingly relies on its support.
AI: radiomics model to predict thyroid nodules
02.09.2019
Machine learning models can be trained to extract immunohistochemical (IHC) characteristics from the CT scans of patients with suspected thyroid nodules, and these IHC characteristics can then be utilized to significantly improve thyroid nodule diagnoses.
Deep Learning Image Reconstruction – what AI looks like in clinical routine
02.09.2019
Artificial intelligence is no longer a dream of the future in medicine. Many studies and initial application examples show that it sometimes achieves better results than human physicians. At Jena University Hospital, the work with AI is already lived practice. It is the first institution in the world to use algorithms in radiological routine to reconstruct CT images.
Islet-on-a-chip: miniature device for diabetes research
30.08.2019
In a study led by Harvard University's Kevin Kit Parker, microfluidics and human, insulin-producing beta cells have been integrated in an "Islet-on-a-Chip". The new device makes it easier for scientists to screen insulin-producing cells before transplanting them into a patient, test insulin-stimulating compounds, and study the fundamental biology of diabetes.
Imaging: new MRI technique spots scar heart muscles
30.08.2019
Traditional MRI scans use the metal gadolinium, which resonates areas of the heart muscles that are not functioning efficiently, however gadolinium affect the Kidney function. The new 3D MRI computing technique calculates strain in heart muscles showing which muscles are not functioning enough without damaging other organs - researchers at WMG, University of Warwick have found.
Skin substitute: medication delivery in one minute
29.08.2019
Nearly 100,000 new cases of melanoma are diagnosed every year, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Now, researchers have developed a fast-acting skin patch that efficiently delivers medication to attack melanoma cells. The device, tested in mice and human skin samples, is an advance toward developing a vaccine to treat melanoma and has widespread applications for other vaccines.
Analyzing systems: technique stores cellular 'memory' in DNA
29.08.2019
Engineers program human and bacterial cells to keep a record of complex molecular events. Using a technique that can precisely edit DNA bases, MIT researchers have created a way to store complex "memories" in the DNA of living cells, including human cells.
Hydrogels: show promise in treating bone defects
28.08.2019
Bioengineers and dentists from the UCLA School of Dentistry have developed a new hydrogel that is more porous and effective in promoting tissue repair and regeneration compared to hydrogels that are currently available. Once injected in a mouse model, the new hydrogel is shown to induce migration of naturally occurring stem cells to better promote bone healing.
Imaging: faster intestine endoscopy with a pill-sized camera
28.08.2019
Greater resolution, sharper images, and more efficient diagnostic processes – this is the promise of an endoscopy capsule developed by Fraunhofer IZM to allow more detailed small intestine diagnostics.
Hearing aids: algorithms for personalized sounds
27.08.2019
The Hearing, Speech and Audio Technology Division (HSA) ft he Fraunhofer IDMT in Oldenburg is developing algorithms for hearing profiles which adjust themselves automatically and dynamically to the acoustic input signal: An easy way to personalized sound and good speech intelligibility for wearers of hearing aids, headphones and hearables.
Augmented reality: glasses help people with low vision
27.08.2019
In a new study of patients with retinitis pigmentosa, an inherited degenerative eye disease that results in poor vision, Keck School of Medicine of USC researchers found that adapted augmented reality (AR) glasses can improve patients' mobility by 50% and grasp performance by 70%.
mHealth: Bitcoin-technology improves medication dose
26.08.2019
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have developed a prototype of an app that may potentially prescribe the optimal dose of medicine for the individual patient, as well as prevent counterfeit products.
Tissue Engeneering: bioprinting complex living tissue
26.08.2019
Tissue engineers create artificial organs and tissues that can be used to develop and test new drugs, repair damaged tissue and even replace entire organs in the human body. However, current fabrication methods limit their ability to produce free-form shapes and achieve high cell viability.
Robotics: software for diagnostics and fail-safe operation
23.08.2019
A team of scientists from School of Engineering at Far Eastern Federal University (FEFU), Institute of Automation and Control Processes, and Institute of Marine Technology Problems of the Far Eastern Department of the Russian Academy of Sciences developed a software module to automatically diagnose defects in sensors and electric drives in various kinds of robots.
Laboratory medicine: biomaterials smarten up with CRISPR
23.08.2019
The CRISPR-Cas system has become the go-to tool for researchers who study genes in an ever-growing list of organisms, and is being used to develop new gene therapies that potentially can correct a defect at a single nucleotide position of the vast reaches of the genome.
German Medical Award 2019 celebrates the future of (patient) care
22.08.2019
The German Medical Award will take place on November 18, 2019, as part of the MEDICA trade fair in Düsseldorf. The ceremony emphasizes the commitment to excellence in cutting-edge care for patients. Doctors, clinical centers and companies in the medical and healthcare industry can demonstrate their achievements in medicine and management in hopes of receiving the coveted award.
Biomarker: health indication in old age
21.08.2019
Researchers on ageing from the Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing and the Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC) collaborate to link basic insights from model organisms to the causes of ageing in humans. They can determine the disease vulnerability of older people using a defined set of substances in the blood.
Wearables: sensors detect what's in your sweat
21.08.2019
New easy-to-make sensors can provide real-time measurements of sweat rate and electrolytes and metabolites in perspiration. Needle pricks not your thing? A team of scientists at the University of California, Berkeley, is developing wearable skin sensors that can detect what's in your sweat.
Precision medicine: graphene nanoflakes as a new tool
20.08.2019
Chemists funded by the SNSF have created a new compound for flexible drug delivery that specifically targets prostate cancer cells. Incorporating four different molecules, the compound prevents tumour cells from multiplying, can be detected by medical imaging and has staying power in the bloodstream.
Wearables: wireless sensors that stick to the skin to track our health
20.08.2019
Skin-hugging sensors track health indicators and use a novel type of RFID to beam signals to receivers clipped to clothing. We tend to take our skin's protective function for granted, ignoring its other roles in signaling subtleties like a fluttering heart or a flush of embarrassment.
Sports medicine: Neuromuscular training for optimal performance
20.08.2019
Movement, strength and coordination - after injuries as well as in healthy athletes, these three components must be intact for movements to run smoothly. At the Beta Klinik in Bonn, Dr. Markus Klingenberg, a specialist in orthopaedics, trauma surgery and sports medicine, offers neuromuscular training with a playful character that can be adapted to the patient's needs.
Imaging: 3D images of objects smaller than a cell
19.08.2019
Researchers have developed a new self-calibrating endoscope that produces 3D images of objects smaller than a single cell. Without a lens or any optical, electrical or mechanical components, the tip of the endoscope measures just 200 microns across, about the width of a few human hairs twisted together.
Sensory cells: new insight on retinal diseases
19.08.2019
Finnish researchers have found cellular components in the epithelial tissue of the eye, which have previously been thought to only be present in electrically active tissues, such as those in nerves and the heart. A study at Tampere University found that these components, voltage-gated sodium (Nav) channels, are involved in the renewal of sensory cells in the adjacent neural tissue, the retina.
Training partner robot – This is the rehabilitation of the future
16.08.2019
In medicine, robots are already taking over tasks that only a few years ago were exclusively in human hands. Especially in the field of rehabilitation, they will play a major role in the future. In the "RoSylerNT" project of the German Sport University Cologne, a robot arm from KUKA is being used here for training purposes. Find out why a robot is the right training partner!
Exoskeleton: walk and run more easily
16.08.2019
Between walking at a leisurely pace and running for your life, human gaits can cover a wide range of speeds. Typically, we choose the gait that allows us to consume the least amount of energy at a given speed. For example, at low speeds, the metabolic rate of walking is lower than that of running in a slow jog; at high speeds, the metabolic rate of running is lower than that of speed walking.
Nanotechnology: better stem cell transplantation research
15.08.2019
Nanotechnology developed at Rutgers University-New Brunswick could boost research on stem cell transplantation, which may help people with Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, other neurodegenerative diseases and central nervous system injuries.
Blood test: liquid biopsy improves breast cancer diagnostics
14.08.2019
A new type of blood test for breast cancer could help avoid thousands of unnecessary surgeries and otherwise precisely monitor disease progression, according to a study led by the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) and Mayo Clinic in Arizona.
Robotics: novel neck brace improves functions of ALS patients
13.08.2019
A novel neck brace, which supports the neck during its natural motion, was designed by Columbia engineers. This is the first device shown to dramatically assist patients suffering from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in holding their heads and actively supporting them during range of motion.
Vascular prostheses: the world's smallest stent
12.08.2019
Approximately one in every thousand children develops a urethral stricture, sometimes even when they are still a foetus in the womb.
Diagnostics: mass spectrometric technique using laser and graphene
12.08.2019
A technology that can obtain high-resolution, micrometer-sized images for mass spectrometric analysis without sample preparation has been developed. DGIST Research Fellow Jae Young Kim and Chair-professor Dae Won Moon's team succeeded in developing the precise analysis and micrometer-sized imaging of bio samples using a small and inexpensive laser.
Oral appliances: highly effective in treating sleep apnea
09.08.2019
Certain traits may define a type of obstructive sleep apnea that can be effectively treated with an oral appliance, according to new research published online in the Annals of the American Thoracic Society.
Tumor excision: triple imaging for unique diagnostics
08.08.2019
After their tumor has been removed, some patients have to return to the hospital to undergo surgery again. That's because the tumor was not precisely identified and was subsequently not completely removed. That's both an ethical and financial dilemma. A new surgery-adjacent procedure is designed to rapidly and accurately detect tumors.
Tissue engineering: restoring damaged cells in the ear
06.08.2019
Using genetic tools in mice, researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine say they have identified a pair of proteins that precisely control when sound-detecting cells, known as hair cells, are born in the mammalian inner ear. The proteins, described in a report published June 12 in eLife, may hold a key to future therapies to restore hearing in people with irreversible deafness.
Tissue engineering: 3D printing the human heart
05.08.2019
A team of researchers from Carnegie Mellon University has published a paper in Science that details a new technique allowing anyone to 3D bioprint tissue scaffolds out of collagen, the major structural protein in the human body. This first-of-its-kind method brings the field of tissue engineering one step closer to being able to 3D print a full-sized, adult human heart.
Dementia: Super-resolution microscopy sheds light
05.08.2019
University of Queensland researchers have used super-resolution microscopy to observe key molecules at work inside living brain cells, further unravelling the puzzle of memory formation and the elusive causes of dementia.
Medical back supports: human torso simulator offers promise for back brace
02.08.2019
Engineers have for the first time created a simulator mimicking the mechanical behaviour of the human torso - which could lead to innovations in the design of medical back supports. It allows researchers to test different back brace designs and configurations without needing to test them on people - removing significant logistical and ethical issues.
Last-resort antibiotics: "We can identify carbapenemases within half an hour"
01.08.2019
Antibiotic resistance is modern medicine's greatest challenge. Some bacteria only respond to a handful of antibiotics, prompting hospitals to spend a lot of time finding an effective drug. That’s why it is critical for physicians to rapidly identify antibiotic resistance to avoid ineffective treatments.
Imaging: novel technology to identify patients with CAD
01.08.2019
Coronary artery disease (CAD) - caused by plaque buildup in the artery walls that constricts the flow of blood to the heart - is the most common form of heart disease and the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States.
Prostheses: wireless sensors for new prosthetics device
30.07.2019
A Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) professor, a local prosthetics company, and an occupational therapist with limb absence have teamed up to develop wireless sensors to improve the performance of prosthetics for individuals with upper limb amputations.
Diagnostics: 3D-printed pill samples aid diagnosis and treatment
29.07.2019
The pill is the first known working device capable of non-invasively and accurately assessing the profile of bacterial species inhabiting any stage of the gastrointestinal tract. The ability to profile bacterial species inhabiting the gut could have important implications for conditions that affect and are affected by the intestinal microbiome.
Microsurgical instruments: microrobots for treating tumors
26.07.2019
Targeting medical treatment is a practice as old as medicine itself. But what is inside the body, is not so easy to reach. In such cases, a treatment like surgery might be called for. Researchers in Caltech's Division of Engineering and Applied Science are working on microrobots that can deliver drugs to specific spots inside the body while being monitored and controlled from outside the body.
Desinfection: gel heals itself while healing you
26.07.2019
McMaster researchers have developed a novel new gel made entirely from bacteria-killing viruses.
Implants: hybrid implant imitates bone structure
25.07.2019
The National University of Science and Technology MISIS together with their colleagues from the N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Centre of oncology developed a unique implant to replace the damaged bone fragment. The implant, which imitates real bone structure, was installed to a domestic cat with osteosarcoma by surgeons of the veterinary clinic "Biocontrol".
Software: better determination for macromolecular structures
25.07.2019
The structures of proteins, RNA and DNA are the key to our understanding of life. These structures are measured with X-ray or neutron diffraction, but the data are rarely perfect. Researchers at the University of Würzburg are now developing a new software to analyse this data.
Imaging: reducing size and weight of MRI equipment
24.07.2019
The Superconductivity Research Center of the Korea Electrotechnology Research Institute (KERI, President Gyu-ha Choe) under the Ministry of Science and ICT has developed a superconducting insulation technology that can significantly reduce the size and weight of medical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) equipment.
Hearing aids: new tech for "almost perfect" hearing
24.07.2019
Dr. Wim Melis from the University of Greenwich is working on deconstructing and reconstructing audio signals with extremely high accuracy.
Blood test: may also identify people at most TB risk
23.07.2019
A new study conducted by researchers in Leicester and Nottingham has shown the potential for a new blood test to not only diagnose human tuberculosis (TB) but also identify those at most risk of developing the disease.
Prosthetics: sensors for wireless control of muscle signals
23.07.2019
For the first time in the world, the research group led by Oskar Aszmann from MedUni Vienna's Department of Surgery, working with commercial partner Otto Bock Healthcare Products and a development group in the USA (Alfred Mann Foundation), has successfully implanted sensors in three male patients following nerve transfers, to transmit biosignals for wireless control of robotic arms.
Two new algorithms identify patients at risk of HIV
22.07.2019
Two new studies developed algorithms that can identify patients who are at risk of acquiring HIV and may benefit from preventive care.
Urological diagnosis: electronic tongues detect bladder cancer
22.07.2019
A team from the Polytechnic University of Valencia (UPV), the La Fe Health Research Institute (IIS-La Fe) and the Centre for Biomedic Research in the fields of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), dependant of the Carlos III Health Institute, has developed a new non-invasive method to help with the early detection and monitoring of bladder cancer.
Free head, without pain - World Brain Day 2019
19.07.2019
World Brain Day 2019 is on July 22. It was created by the World Federation of Neurology (WFN) and the International Headache Society (IHS) to help people pay more attention to neurological diseases. This year the focus will be on migraine - a painful disease that seriously affects people in their daily lives.
Imaging: combination of super microscope and supercomputer to target new treatments
12.07.2019
Badri Roysam, chair of the University of Houston Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, is leading a $3.19 million project to create new technology that could provide an unprecedented look at the injured brain.
Rapid test: diagnosing pneumonia and other lower respiratory infections
09.07.2019
Scientists at the Quadram Institute and the University of East Anglia (UEA) have developed a new, rapid way of diagnosing bacterial lower respiratory tract infections in hours rather than days, that could improve patient care and slow the spread of antimicrobial resistance. The method is published today in the journal Nature Biotechnology.
Human-on-a-chip: prediction of in vivo results based on in vitro model
08.07.2019
Hesperos Inc., pioneers of the human-on-a-chip in vitro system has announced the use of its innovative multi-organ model to successfully measure the concentration and metabolism of two known cardiotoxic small molecules over time, to accurately describe the drug behavior and toxic effects in vivo. The findings support the potential of body-on-a-chip systems to transform the drug discovery process.
Striking new paths in medicine - Diagnostics Partnering Conference 2019
08.07.2019
On November 18th, 2019, parallel to the first day of MEDICA, the world forum for medicine, the Diagnostics Partnering Conference (DxPx Conference) will take place in Düsseldorf, bringing together stakeholders in the diagnostics and research tool industry. The DxPx Conference focuses on discovering technologies, finding financing and investment opportunities and forming collaborative partnerships.
Prosthetic hand: 3D printed and combinable with a computer interface
08.07.2019
Losing a limb, either through illness or accident, can present emotional and physical challenges for an amputee, damaging their quality of life. Prosthetic limbs can be very useful but are often expensive and difficult to use.
Computer model supports cancer therapy
05.07.2019
Researchers from the Life Sciences Research Unit (LSRU) of the University of Luxembourg have developed a computer model that simulates the metabolism of cancer cells. They used the programme to investigate how combinations of drugs could be used more effectively to stop tumour growth.
Cybersecurity: Software uncovers vulnerability
05.07.2019
Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories identified the weakness and notified the software developers. The issue has also been fixed in the latest release of the software. While no attack from this vulnerability is known, the National Institutes of Standards and Technology recently described it in a note to software developers, genomics researchers and network administrators.
Cell therapies: homing instinct shows cells "home"
04.07.2019
In a world first, scientists have found a new way to direct stem cells to heart tissue. The findings, led by researchers at the University of Bristol and published in Chemical Science, could radically improve the treatment for cardiovascular disease.
Imaging: MRI scanner diagnoses knee injuries accurately
04.07.2019
The team say the device – which uses so-called "magic angle" effect - could potentially help diagnose knee injuries more quickly, and more accurately. In a proof-of-concept study using animal knees, the results suggest the technology could be used to show all the structures of the knee.
Biomarker: test improves prostate cancer detection
03.07.2019
A team of researchers from UCLA and the University of Toronto have identified a new biomarker found in urine that can help detect aggressive prostate cancer, potentially saving hundreds of thousands of men each year from undergoing unnecessary surgeries and radiotherapy treatments.
Wearables: real-time insight into wearers' emotions
03.07.2019
Smart wearable technology that changes colour, heats up, squeezes or vibrates as your emotions are heightened has the potential to help people with affective disorders better control their feelings.
Monitoring system: Body mapping treats damaged organs
02.07.2019
Medical advancements can come at a physical cost. Often following diagnosis and treatment for cancer and other diseases, patients' organs and cells can remain healed but damaged from the medical condition.
Wearables: new e-tattoo enables heart monitoring for days
02.07.2019
A new wearable technology made from stretchy, lightweight material could make heart health monitoring easier and more accurate than existing electrocardiograph machines - a technology that has changed little in almost a century.
Sports medicine - performance values in best health
01.07.2019
Those who integrate physical activities into their own lifestyle live healthier and more balanced. But where are the physical limits? Can health status measurements also be carried out on the road? Discover more about how sports medical examinations contribute to maintain performance and minimize health risks in our Topic of the Month.
Sports medicine – keep moving to stay healthy
01.07.2019
Physical activity plays a big role in today's society. Whether you are an amateur or professional athlete – incorporating exercise into your life positively impacts your mental and physical health. Ideally, sport should be fun, pressure-free and not overburden you. But can you measure individual performance and align it with sports?
Training and rehabilitation: fit thanks to hover technology
01.07.2019
Amateur and professional athletes are susceptible to sports injuries, balance disorders or deficits in motor function and posture. Prevention and the right training can help avoid these incidents, while targeted therapy can support a return to sports after an injury.
Haematology: problems of anti-bleeding detected in 60 mins
01.07.2019
Researchers from the Universities of Geneva and Franche-Comté have developed an innovative device that investigates a patient's platelet capacity in near real-life conditions so that bleeding can be stopped (haemostasis).
Performance diagnostics: success in sports – testing the limits of performance
01.07.2019
Stationary or mobile - competitive athletes rely on regular health assessments. They must deliver peak performance and be physically fit during competitions. But when do they reach their physical limits? Are there any devices that provide information, no matter where the test subject is located?
AI: contactless system detects cardiac arrest
01.07.2019
Cardiac arrests often occur outside of the hospital and in the privacy of someone's home. Recent research suggests that one of the most common locations for an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest is in a patient's bedroom, where no one is likely around or awake to respond and provide care.
AI: recognizing pathological movement patterns
28.06.2019
Reliably evaluating walking and gripping movements of patients is essential for the diagnosis and therapy of movement disorders, for example after a stroke or in Parkinson's syndromes. However, the success of this challenging diagnostic procedure depends to a large extent on the experience and skills of the attending physician.
Telemedicine: telephone-based coaching as an impetus for more exercise
25.06.2019
Sports scientists from the University of Basel found that providing telephone-based coaching over the phone is an effective method for getting people in Switzerland to adopt a physically active lifestyle.
Imaging: non-invasive view into the heart
25.06.2019
The non-invasive measurement of blood flow to the heart using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is on par with cardiac catheterization. This was the result of an international study published in the current issue of the New England Journal of Medicine and headed by researchers from Goethe University.
Optical method: compact device for rapid tissue analysis during surgery
24.06.2019
A team of researchers from Jena is presenting a groundbreaking new method for the rapid, gentle and reliable detection of tumors with laser light. For the first time, the Leibniz IPHT will present a compact device for rapid cancer diagnosis during surgery. The optical method will help surgeons to remove tumors more precisely and could make cancer operations possible without a scalpel.
Open data: making science more verifiable
24.06.2019
The unrestricted availability of original data – so-called open data – on scientific publications is an important prerequisite for ensuring research results are verifiable and able to be used in the best possible way. Moreover, the reproducibility of results is crucial for the transfer of research findings into commercial or social application – which is the main concern of the BIH.
Healthy Living thanks to robotics – KUKA Innovation Award 2019
24.06.2019
Improving technology transfer from research to industry and driving robotics development - that's the idea behind the KUKA Innovation Award. This year’s topic is "Healthy Living". Applicants from around the world were tasked with creating a robot application for healthcare settings. Now, the finalists, who will showcase their innovations at the MEDICA 2019 trade fair have been selected.
Functional Imaging: The puls of modern oncology
17.06.2019
Medical imaging techniques have developed considerably in recent decades. In addition to morphological imaging techniques more and more functional imaging techniques are used in oncology that can continously record the functions of specific organs locally and regionally in real time. These are groundbreaking for diagnostics, therapies and preoperative preparations.
Of exoskeletons and service robots – the future of rehabilitation
03.06.2019
For most people, enjoying a good quality of life means having the ability to move freely, safely and independently. Intensive and costly rehabilitation is needed if this is no longer an option after a stroke for example. We are introducing some projects that deliver innovative robotic solutions.
Walking is an issue of mind over matter – how robots assist rehabilitation
03.06.2019
Humans are living longer than ever but still want to continue to live independently as they age. Meanwhile, our motor and cognitive abilities decline as we age, sometimes as the effects of a stroke. The number of people in need of long-term care is growing at breakneck speed. At the same time, fewer and fewer young people choose stressful careers as caregivers.
Rehab with a robot – robot-assisted therapy in neurology
03.06.2019
It takes consistent repetitions if rehab patients want to relearn skills after surviving a stroke. This requires extreme effort. The industrial sector uses robots to perform repetitive tasks or handle jobs that require strength. What has been a fixture in factories for decades is now also making its way into rehabilitation facilities.
Robotics – rehab with motors and sensors
03.06.2019
They work with power, precision and tirelessly. This makes robots an ideal instrument for rehabilitation. In gait or motor training, movement sequences must be repeated thousands of times so that they can be learnt anew. What tires the patient and costs the therapist's time can easily be managed by robot-assisted systems. Learn more about the possibilities of robotics in rehabilitation.
mHealth: Atrial fibrillation detection – App supports heart health
08.05.2019
Atrial fibrillation is the most common type of persistent cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heart rhythm). Researchers estimate that 1.8 million Germans are presently affected by this disease. The condition is difficult to diagnose, frequently goes undetected and may result in a stroke. A new smartwatch medical app is designed to help patients detect atrial fibrillation before it’s too late.
Human firewall – keeping your resources safe
02.05.2019
Digitization impacts many areas of life. It is also remapping the healthcare landscape and is becoming increasingly important, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care as quickly as possible. To make this a reality, data is stored digitally and medical devices are connected.
Security first – hospitals prime targets of cyberattacks
02.05.2019
Safety should be a top priority when it comes to safeguarding human lives. That's why hospitals must protect their computer networks and data against unauthorized access. However, thanks to the proliferation of connected devices in hospitals, they are at high risk of suffering devastating cyberattacks. There is also a lack of cybersecurity awareness.
Stroke: 4D brain perfusion accelerates treatment
01.04.2019
In an ischaemic stroke, rapid treatment is essential. In this moment good imaging data is particularly important to enable doctors to make the best possible decision for therapy. Modern CT scanners are increasingly being used to assess stroke patients because they can show the blood flow to the brain over time.
Brain mapping: preoperative planning with functional MRI
01.04.2019
A surgery already begins before the patient is lying on the operating table – namely with the planning. For example, if brain surgery is imminent, the brain must first be mapped. This makes the activity level of certain brain areas visible. Functional magnetic resonance imaging makes this possible.
Functional imaging: what makes the brain tick?
01.04.2019
Our brain is the command center of our body. This is where all information and impressions are collected and converted into responses and movements. Modern imaging techniques offer physicians and researchers unique insights into the actions of the human central nervous system. The functional imaging technique allows them to watch our brain in action.
Blood Sugar Monitoring: Using Infrared Instead of Invasive Techniques
22.03.2019
Over six million people in Germany have diabetes. It is estimated that almost 400 million people are affected by this disease worldwide. Diabetes sufferers must prick their fingers several times a day to monitor their blood sugar.
Orthopedic implant: More comfortable thanks to full weight-bearing capacity
08.03.2019
Orthopedic implants – they are a necessity when it comes to congenital or acquired limb length discrepancies. However, full weight-bearing during the limb lengthening process is not feasible with previous implant models. For the first time, the 3D Surgery division at the Medical Center of the University of Munich has succeeded in using an implant that facilitates immediate weight-bearing.
Restoring Pulmonary Function
01.03.2019
People suffering from lung disease temporarily need ventilator support because they are unable to breathe naturally. Mechanical ventilation is designed to ensure the survival of these patients. The goal is to adapt the ventilator settings and tailor them the patient's specific needs and prevent lung tissue damage.
All-round care for COPD: diagnosis, treatment, self-management
01.03.2019
COPD affects more than 200 million people in the world. Those affected by this chronic pulmonary disease are often slow to notice the symptoms and get a medical diagnosis. This results in secondary complications and high medical costs. That's why an early diagnosis, comprehensive treatment, and frequent monitoring are very important. Various devices and tools support this all-round care.
Comprehensive Treatment: It’s All About Breathing
01.03.2019
Coughing, airway obstruction, difficulty breathing: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an umbrella term used to describe progressive and currently incurable lung diseases. The innovative solutions of Philips Respironics help patients to manage each stage of the disease and their medication intake, train the respiratory system and provide respiratory support.
Gentle medication for the little ones – with every breath
22.02.2019
According to the WHO, ten percent of babies worldwide are born prematurely. Since most organs of these tiny babies have not fully developed yet, it can quickly lead to complications and disorders and most notably affect the lungs of the premature infants. What's more, infections require gentle treatment, as the preemies themselves are fragile and susceptible – making this a challenging situation.
Organ-on-a-chip – Organs in miniature format
01.02.2019
In vitro processes and animal tests are used to develop new medications and novel therapeutic approaches. However, animal testing raises important ethical concerns. Organ-on-a-chip models promise to be a feasible alternative. In a system the size of a smartphone, organs are connected using artificial circulation.
Multi-Organ Chips – The Patients of Tomorrow?
01.02.2019
The liver, nervous tissue or the intestines: all are important human organs that have in the past been tested for their function and compatibility using animal or in vitro test methods. In recent years, TissUse GmbH, a spin-off of the Technical University of Berlin (TU Berlin), has launched multi-organ chip platforms. But that’s not all.
Hybrid Imaging – Two Views of the Lungs
25.01.2019
CT scan, MRI or X-ray: All these methods allow doctors to see inside the body - including inside the lungs - and make a diagnosis. The clinic for Nuclear Medicine at the RWTH Aachen University Hospital uses a state-of-the-art gamma camera that combines SPECT and CT.
AI ensures dynamic sitting
22.01.2019
Whether in the office, at school or behind the wheel: we spend a lot of time sitting and often stay in the same position for too long. The possible side effects are stiffness, back problems and pain. The SensA-Chair smart seating solution combats decreased mobility and ensures dynamic sitting.
Better living thanks to telemedicine – “TelePark“- project targets patients with Parkinson’s disease
08.01.2019
Parkinson's disease is a progressive nervous system disorder that primarily affects movement of patients and makes their everyday lives very challenging. It also makes regular doctor appointments and treatment sessions necessary. "TelePark" - a project that collects different movement-related parameters using sensors and apps is designed to improve the quality of life for Parkinson’s patients.
A digital look inside the human eye – when algorithms diagnose Diabetes
02.01.2019
Diabetes mellitus or simply diabetes has become very common and is often described as a lifestyle disease. More and more people are suffering from this chronic metabolic disorder. Next to established diagnostic procedures, digital retinal screening has shown to be successful - a promising technique that will also play an important role in the diagnosis of other diseases in the future.
Diabetes digital – smart support for diabetics
02.01.2019
Monitoring blood sugar levels, counting carbohydrates, calculating insulin doses, and keeping accurate records - diabetes is a data-intensive disease that demands a lot of self-discipline and attention from the patients. Some concerns are patients neglecting to keep a food journal, "fudged" test results or calculation errors. Digital solutions help patients easily manage the large volumes of data.
Collect, process, communicate – retina measurements with Mimo
19.12.2018
Continuous monitoring is an essential process with every disease. In the case of eye disorders, frequent retina measurements can facilitate early detection of deterioration to quickly initiate intervention. This calls for comprehensive care settings, easy ways to take measurements and prompt results. However, in reality, this is rarely the case.
Back to health – when electrical pulses provide healing
03.12.2018
Strengthening and healing thanks to the power of electrical pulses - is that really possible? When mobility is restricted or muscles are no longer as strong as they used to be, electrical treatment options can lead to improvement or even cure of diseases. But why are more and more people turning to these alternatives, what are the advantages and what are their limitations and drawbacks?
MoreGrasp – being able to grasp again with paraplegia
22.11.2018
Every year between 250.000 and 500.000 people suffer a spinal cord injury, MoreGrasp is intended to make their lives easier. The project aims to restore the lost gripping function in people with high paraplegia. Researchers at Graz University of Technology have developed a neuroprosthesis that is currently undergoing a feasibility study.
From algorithm to rapid test – Artificial Intelligence classifies blood cells
21.11.2018
Our blood reveals a lot about our physical health. The shape of our blood cells sheds light on several hereditary diseases for example. For a diagnosis, the cells must first be examined under the microscope and categorized into a specific cell class. We met with Dr. Stephan Quint and Alexander Kihm of the Institute of Physics at the Saarland University, who explained how this classification works.
Interview with Verso Vision
15.11.2018
Artificial intelligence and algorithms that become ever more complex are increasingly used in devices in the hospital. This does not only bring speed, but also safety to the treatment and care of patients. We learn more at the stand of Verso Vision at MEDICA 2018.
Interview with Rapid Response Revival Research
15.11.2018
When sudden cardiac arrest occurs, every minute counts to prevent severe damage to the patient. AED devices are proven to increase the survival rate during these events. One who has first-hand experience with this is Donovan Casey.
Interview with MedicalTek Co., Ltd.
15.11.2018
Many diagnostic and treatment questions can be answered with a glance inside the body. At the MedicalTek stand at MEDICA 2018, we learn how imaging systems in minimally invasive surgery can help physicians.
Surglasses: surgery with perspective: Interview with Taiwan Main Orthopedics
15.11.2018
Surgeons need a good overview of what they are doing. This is especially true for minimally-invasive surgery, since they cannot see the operating area directly. Using augmented reality, Taiwan Main Orthopedics Biotechnology helps surgeons to retain their perspective, even during complex interventions.
Interview with KUKA Deutschland GmbH
15.11.2018
Man and machine have been working hand in hand for years. KUKA GmbH offers industrial robots in many variants. At MEDICA 2018, it presents the KUKA MED lightweight robot, which is to be used in medicine in the future.
Interview with ERBA Diagnostics Mannheim GmbH
15.11.2018
A lot of answers in medicine are found in the laboratory. Correct analysis is key to find the right diagnosis and cure for the patient. We learn more about innovative analysis devices at the stand of ERBA Diagnostics at MEDICA 2018.
The Future of X-Ray – Interview with PROTEC
14.11.2018
Since Konrad Röntgen discovered X-rays in 1895, this type of diagnosis has been part of everyday hospital routine. But what innovations will there still be in this area of imaging methods in 2018? PROTEC gives us an insight into the fascinating world of X-rays at MEDICA 2018.
Typing with TiPY – Interview with the Drory Handels GmbH
14.11.2018
Whether with or without disability, one-handed typing could make our work more efficient. You can't imagining this on a standard keyboard? The developer of TiPY can't do too. But in the interview at MEDICA 2018 he gives the answer how it could work in the future.
Healthcare data to go – Interview with medicus.ai
13.11.2018
New technologies lead to new challenges, but also open up new possibilities. At the stand of Medicus AI at MEDICA 2018, we will find out what they look like specifically for medicine. The company has developed an app that bundles all of a patient's health-related data and helps understand medical reports.
OR Equipment
13.11.2018
Germ-free, fast and precise - in order for interventions in the OR to run safely and smoothly, the rooms have to be equipped with specific operating equipment. This must not only comply with hygiene standards, but also guarantee sufficient free space and fast retrieval of patient data. We are visiting MEDICA 2018 to learn more about these innovations.
A clean kidney: Break then glue
08.11.2018
Not enough exercise, an unhealthy diet: Kidney stones develop when urine contains too many insoluble compounds and are now one of the most common diseases worldwide. The ailment annually affects 1.2 million people in Germany alone. The stones are broken up and taken out via endoscopic surgery. Now it’s possible to remove even the tiniest residual fragments. The solution: a biocompatible adhesive.
Digitization: Hospitals as Popular Targets?
02.11.2018
It’s safe to say that patients and their prompt medical care take center stage at any hospital. Digitization of the healthcare sector is quickly advancing to make this a reality: data is stored in a digital medium, devices are linked together. But how safe are hospitals in the age of innovation?
"Dr. Algorithm suggests the best treatment option"
02.11.2018
The technology of the 20th century is progressing faster than ever – and this also applies to technology in the field of medicine. That’s why it is only a matter of time before hospitals are fully driven by artificial intelligence - data-driven medicine that suggests the best treatment and facilitates zero error surgeries. A path that doesn’t just require openness!
Diagnostics at record speeds – POCT in high-performance sports
02.11.2018
This is what diagnostic investigation normally looks like: a patient sample is collected, sent to the laboratory and analyzed. Once that's completed, the patient is told of the lab test result. But if the patient is a high-performance athlete and has to follow and stick to a rigid training schedule, he or she needs these results immediately. What makes this possible? Point-of-care testing!
Healthy aging: further research needed on measurement methods in geriatrics
22.10.2018
Today’s society is faced with an aging population. The past has seen the development of many methods for measuring body composition in older adults. However, some of these techniques are not available to medical practices and hospital facilities or are in dire need of optimization.
Lung Imaging – Keeping the Respiratory System Healthy
05.10.2018
Many people have damaged or suboptimally functioning lungs. An accurate diagnosis and subsequent treatment are vital to protect this life-sustaining organ. Modern imaging solutions help physicians and patients understand what happens inside the lungs.
Lung segmentation: easier and faster thanks to new algorithms
01.10.2018
A look inside the lungs is a time-consuming process. To identify the boundaries of the respiratory organ from surrounding other organs, tissues, and structures requires between 200 and 500 computed tomographic images and subsequent manual markings – an elaborate process that can take up to six hours. An optimized computer program is now able to do this in only a few seconds.
Back pain: The research project Ran Rücken is intended to help
10.09.2018
About eight in ten Germans suffer from back pain during their lifetime. Too much or the wrong movements can also cause problems. "Ran Rücken", the interdisciplinary research project aims to determine the right minimum dose of exercise that proves effective. (Explanatory note: "Ran Rücken" can be loosely translated as "Target the Back")
Master plan Smart Hospital: well-connected is half cared for
03.09.2018
Artificial intelligence makes the diagnosis, robots perform the surgery and physicians manage all processes via touchscreen – is that what hospitals of the future will look like? And how far away are we actually from this future? Many hospital facilities are already on their way to becoming Smart Hospitals with the latest technology and where everything and everyone is linked and connected.
Pathology 4.0 – inveox automates laboratory processes
22.08.2018
Mix-ups, contamination and sample loss – most errors in pathology happen when specimen are received. Countless samples arrive daily at the laboratory, while the sample entry process is very monotonous. As a result, the work is inefficient. The start-up company inveox has now developed a system that automates the processes in the pathology laboratory, thus making them more efficient.
Regenerative heart valves: from simulation to replacement
23.07.2018
Every year, more than 250,000 patients worldwide receive heart valve implants. Children require repeated replacement surgery because their bodies are still growing, the prosthetic heart valves are not. Regenerative heart valves solve this problem. Until now, we have only been able to monitor how these living implants develop in the body after the fact. Computer models now make this predictable.
Ambulances of the future – a safe and ergonomic workplace
19.07.2018
Today's ambulance features far more technology than meets the eye. But not everything is aimed at treating patients. Ambulance manufacturers must also ensure that their vehicles make a great workplace for the crews on board and can adapt to the different challenges of emergency medical services.
The perfect bone fracture - MEDICA 2018
19.07.2018
Studies show that young trauma surgeons are allowed to operate immediately after completing their training, but have not necessarily practiced as often as mandatorily required. And that even though training Doctors could take place without putting the patients in any danger - on realistic preparations in training centers.
The path to the Digi-Doc – MEDICA 2018
19.07.2018
The electronic patient record is only one of many examples that shows how difficult digitization is in the healthcare industry in Germany. So it is no wonder that this topic will dominate at MEDICA, the world's largest medical trade fair. At the same time, the suppliers of medical technology present themselves.
Resuscitation via videostream – how EmergencyEye can save lives
02.07.2018
When the heart stops beating, irreversible brain damage occurs within minutes without resuscitation. Meanwhile, action is only taken in very few instances of cardiac arrest. Even first responders frequently feel helpless in this situation. In Germany, approximately 65,000 people die each year from sudden cardiac arrest. This is where EmergencyEye comes in to offer valuable support.
Cells in the speed trap – diagnosis in a matter of seconds
22.06.2018
A drop of blood provides a lot of valuable information. However, it takes several hours to analyze the blood of a patient and make a diagnosis. This takes away a lot of time that's crucial for treatment. A new method intends to considerably speed up this process by testing the cells in the blood in terms of their deformability and immune response.
Light and Bluetooth – dynamic measurement techniques for orthopedics
02.05.2018
X-rays for diagnostic imaging and therapy evaluation are still the norm in orthopedics. Meanwhile, patients who frequently need X-rays are repeatedly exposed to radiation. That's why the University Hospital RWTH Aachen uses and develops methods that are not just radiation-free but can also capture motions.
A startup makes melanin glow: skin cancer diagnostics with Magnosco
09.04.2018
When a skin lesion is suspected to exhibit malignant changes, it is usually promptly removed. However, not all cases require an excision of the affected tissue. The startup company Magnosco has developed a procedure that uses a laser to support the diagnosis and early detection of malignant melanoma.
VR Lab for medical students: linking theory and practice
22.03.2018
Virtual reality and medicine are increasingly mentioned in the same context. In addition to the development of applications that support the treatment of patients suffering from chronic pain and anxiety, this technology also benefits medical staff. Two months ago, the Ulm University Hospital has opened the VR Lab, where medical students can train and learn with the help of 3D organs.
Surgical navigation systems – with precision to the destination
06.03.2018
With the help of surgical navigation systems, prostheses or implants can be better inserted. During the procedure, surgeons can see exactly where they need to operate on a screen. Just like a navigation system in the car, navigation in the OR guides you precisely to your destination. At the Uniklinik RWTH Aachen we can find out what advantages this has for physicians and patients.
Personalized cancer medicine: customized treatment
01.03.2018
Everyone is different. This statement also applies to our health. Cancer, in particular, can look and progress differently depending on the individual person. That’s why every patient ideally also needs a customized treatment that is tailored to their individual needs. But how feasible is this idea?
Everything flows: transportation and material flows in hospital logistics
01.02.2018
During a visit to the hospital, patients naturally expect to receive comprehensive care. Not only does this include the proper treatment, but also a hospital bed and regular meals for example. Patients typically don't ask about the transport logistics this entails for the hospital.
Hospital logistics: guarantor of quality and efficiency
01.02.2018
Medical supply distribution, supplying operating rooms with sterile instrument kits, the provision of food and catering services for patients – these are some of the around-the-clock care processes at a hospital. Efficient logistics are crucial to guarantee smooth processes. All of these pieces ultimately come together at the hospital’s in-house logistics center.
The surgeon's co-pilot: pin-point accuracy through electromagnetic navigation systems
04.01.2018
The position and alignment of surgical tools in the patient’s body must always be kept in view during the operation process to guarantee success and safety. With fine sensors at the tip of the instruments and an electromagnetic signal, Fiagon's electromagnetic navigation systems accurately reproduce their position in the body.
Surgical navigation systems: Safely guiding the scalpel
04.01.2018
Imaging, navigation, integration – these are terms that describe the modern operating room. All of these components play a key role in accurate surgical procedures. They are integrated into surgical navigation systems, which make complicated medical surgeries considerably safer.
Illuminated pyjamas treat jaundice in mommy's arms
20.12.2017
Sixty percent of newborns are affected by jaundice during their first days of life. In most cases, the condition is harmless. The ailment is more pronounced in premature babies, whose treatment involves irradiation with blue light in a special incubator – naked and alone.
CO2 treatment: a traditional therapeutic approach
15.11.2017
Spa treatments and therapies using carbon dioxide are very old, according to historical traditions. They also promise success in wound healing and prevention. Under the motto "Preventing Amputations", Unitronic presents a medical treatment system at MEDICA 2017, which, in contrast to other complex spa treatments, relies on an uncomplicated application. Find out more in our exhibitor video.
The "Leipzig Spoon" to cure pathological myopia
22.09.2017
Many people all over the world suffer from myopia, also known as nearsightedness. A severe elongation of the eyeball is the cause behind it. If it continues to progress, it ultimately leads to complete loss of vision. Now an innovative medical device intends to stop this progression in the future.
Laboratory automation: from note book to gesture recognition
08.08.2017
For centuries, scientific research has succeeded by chronicling experiments with pinpoint accuracy. Yet despite all the progress in the actual laboratory, recording is often still done manually, in notebooks, logs or computer systems for instance. In the future, a gesture recognition system could perform this task for scientists.
Physician Assistant - profession with perspective
22.06.2017
The doctor's profession is exhausting and involves many different activities. For a long time, there have been discussions about how doctors can be supported by other specialists. One solution: help from so-called physician assistants.
Hospital hygiene - Little helper tool for hand disinfection
04.05.2017
The main weak spot in hand disinfection at hospitals is that it is either not or not properly carried out. Oftentimes, the reason is that employees lack the time to do it right. The HELIOS University Hospital Wuppertal now uses a little helper to motivate staff members to correctly disinfect hands. MEDICA-tradefair.com took their camera to watch how this works.
Hospital-acquired infections: pathogens know no borders
03.04.2017
Many aspects are uniformly regulated in Europe, however, hospital hygiene and MRSA prevention, for example, are not. The Netherlands plays a pioneering role in the fight against hospital-acquired infections. The country is an often-cited role model. But can other countries simply adopt the same system? And what makes it so different? MEDICA asked expert Prof. Alexander W. Friedrich.
Healthy at work: "Occupational health management is a win-win situation"
22.03.2017
Exercising, keeping fit, staying healthy as you age – modern lifestyle goals pursued by many. Another buzzword related to this lifestyle is work-life balance. But how can you maintain this balance if your job makes it impossible to stay healthy? If stress and physical as well as emotional distress cripple employees? Finding a balance is often barely possible.
Collect Data? Utilize Data! – The Blessings of Big Data
01.03.2017
Genome data, MRI images, and blood test results – data collected in the medical sector is not only very heterogeneous but also extremely extensive. However, it is important to not only collect this data but to also utilize it. After all, processed, linked and analyzed data provides many opportunities in research, hospital management and ultimately also for the individual patient.
Medical Databases: One for All, All for One
01.03.2017
In the "KDI – Clinical Data Intelligence Project", researchers are trying to consolidate various types of data to make them useable and useful to both medical professionals and scientists. This is a tremendous undertaking, considering the data volumes from different sources. In this conversation with MEDICA, Dr. Martin Sedlmayr explains the project setup.
Smart versus big: how data can assist in the OR
01.03.2017
The OR is the centerpiece of every hospital and also the most expensive resource that should be used efficiently. Yet in reality, there are often delays when interventions are not intelligently scheduled and take place back-to-back. This is why the InnOPlan Research Consortium wants to make surgical device data usable and useful to improve the operating room planning process.
Project TeleView – Telemedicine for refugees
23.01.2017
Refugees who come to Germany struggle with language and cultural barriers – also when it comes to medical issues. Patients are often not able to state their medical history or acute conditions, which requires extra time and means increased costs for medical offices and shelters. The telemedicine project TeleView seeks to offer a solution to this problem.
Hospital construction: infection prevention through architecture?
09.01.2017
Hospitals apply many infection prevention and control measures. They all have one thing in common: they are individual parts of an overall concept that is aimed at preventing the spread of highly infectious and resistant pathogens in hospitals. Nevertheless, previous hygiene concepts ignore one aspect of hospitals: the architecture of the actual hospital facility itself.