Articles tagged with Systems Biology
A clinical trial alert system significantly increased physicians' participation in patient recruitment, doubling the enrollment rate from 2.9 to 6.0 participants per month. The system alerted physicians about ongoing trials when a patient's records met selected criteria, leading to a 10-fold increase in referrals.
Proteome Systems has received a $20 million grant from the US government to develop therapeutic compounds for treating radiation damage. The company's 'catalytic scavenger compounds' show potential in preventing radiation-induced tissue damage and are expected to protect victims of radiation exposure, including first responders.
A study found that transcatheter arterial embolization procedures using a digital flat-panel system resulted in lower radiation doses to patients' skin, ranging from 130-467 mGy. This compares to higher doses of 510-1,882 mGy with conventional units.
A new study found that brain noise limits both motor control and perception in common movements. Researchers analyzed neural activity and smooth pursuit eye movements to understand how the brain processes sensory inputs and executes decisions.
The Mayo Clinic has developed a new coma measurement system called the FOUR Score, which quantifies the level of consciousness and severity of brain injury. The score, tested in 120 intensive care unit patients, provides more precise measurements and higher agreement between evaluators than the Glasgow Coma Scale.
The US government has awarded a $20 million grant to develop novel synthetic catalytic scavengers (SCS) to protect against and treat the effects of radiation exposure. Proteome Systems will provide its SCS compounds for clinical application, aiming to create medical products for victims of radiological terrorism or radiation accidents.
The Cribier-Edwards Percutaneous valve offers a less invasive solution for patients with fibro-calcific native aortic valves, reducing mortality rates associated with untreated disease. Recent developments include custom retrograde delivery systems and larger valve sizes, improving procedure success rates.
A study published in PLoS Medicine found that a computer monitoring system can alter doctors' behavior, making them more likely to stop prescriptions or order further tests when alerted to potential problems. This could lead to significant reductions in adverse drug events and hospital costs.
Researchers are studying the lipopolysaccharide outer membrane of P. aeruginosa to understand its interaction with minerals and heavy metals, which has significant implications for bioremediation applications.
A Virginia Tech research group has created molecular assemblies that can absorb therapeutic light and activate complexes attached to DNA, allowing for more precise delivery of cancer-killing drugs. Platinum was added to the structure, ensuring the activation of complexes already attached to the target.
Loyola Medicine has become the first in the US to implant a new, FDA-approved defibrillator that can signal doctors of patient's irregular heartbeat or device malfunction. This innovation allows for real-time monitoring and early intervention, reducing mortality rates associated with arrhythmia.
A new robotic technique in weight-loss surgery, developed by Stanford Medicine, offers several advantages over traditional methods. The da Vinci robotic surgical system provides improved visualization and precise maneuvers, reducing surgical time by approximately 30 minutes compared to conventional laparoscopic procedures.
Researchers found that the revised TNM staging system is strongly associated with disease-free survival and overall survival. The new system provides more accurate information about tumor response to chemotherapy, helping doctors determine the best treatment plan for patients.
A new study by Michigan Medicine found that a simple written-reminder system can reduce urinary catheter use by 7.6% and lead to a significant decrease in hospital-acquired infections. The system's cost is estimated to be lower than the savings it generates, with potential tens of thousands of dollars in annual savings.
Studies reveal high users of primary care are often over-serviced but underserved, and electronic medical records have little impact on diabetes quality of care. In contrast, patients treated with dignity report higher satisfaction, treatment adherence, and receipt of preventive services.
A new study reveals that predatory dinosaurs, such as T. rex, had a more complex air sac system similar to that in modern birds. The findings suggest that these ancient beasts may have been warm-blooded creatures, with a pulmonary machinery for enhanced gas exchange.
The DOE is exploring the potential of Active Denial Technology (ADT) to protect nuclear assets from intruders. A small-sized ADS system is being developed for DOE fixed-site applications, which has shown encouraging results in previous studies and human effectiveness testing.
The Gamma Medica imaging system enables researchers to use PET only, CT only, or a combination of modalities, allowing for flexibility and efficiency in research objectives. This tri-modality system is expected to speed up the development of life-saving drugs by enabling faster and more efficient work.
The Cleveland Clinic Health System has implemented a mobile PET/CT unit, providing on-site cancer diagnosis to patients in need. The cooperative efforts of all involved hospitals have made the service a successful operation.
An outbreak in 2000-2001 revealed fungal contamination in breast implants, caused by poor ventilation and storage conditions. Investigators recommended improved HVAC systems, infection control staff inclusion, and use of closed systems to fill implants.
In a study published in Archives of Internal Medicine, researchers found that despite implementing multiple computerized interventions, medication errors continued to occur at high rates. The authors identified common error types, including failure to monitor adverse drug reactions and improper medication dosages.
A recent study published in Nature Methods found that different microarray systems are more alike than previously thought, yielding comparable results when used properly. The study involved 10 laboratories using various platforms and showed that with proper methods and reporting, the results can be reliable across different platforms.
New fluorescent technology, Onco-LIFE, improves colonoscopy's diagnostic capability by increasing tumor detection and accuracy. The Aer-O-Scope device offers a self-propelling, self-navigating option for colon cancer screening, potentially reducing discomfort and improving success rates.
PENN researchers have developed a novel approach to treat head and neck cancer using the daVinci System, allowing for complete tumor removal while preserving voice and swallowing function. This innovative technique has shown great potential in improving treatment outcomes and quality of life for patients.
Mayo researchers identified a genetic glitch in the heart's electrical system, which can lead to sudden and unexpected drownings. The study found two cases of proficient swimmers who died unexpectedly while swimming, highlighting the importance of further research into this phenomenon.
A new $8.9 million research program will utilize powerful computing resources to study the systems regulating cell growth and division, potentially leading to new cancer treatments. Dr. Stuart Kauffman, a renowned theoretical biologist, will lead the program at the University of Calgary.
A national matching program for kidney donors and recipients can significantly increase the number of transplants, improve match quality and survival rates, while reducing travel costs.
Molecular Systems Biology is a new journal that publishes papers on complex biological systems using molecular components and their interactions. The journal features innovative technology for formal descriptions of biological systems and sharing of data in widely-used XML-based formats.
A Northwestern Memorial study finds that smart pump technology alone has limited potential to improve patient safety, but integrating it with EHRs and other technologies can significantly reduce errors. The hospital is developing a robust two-way communication system to verify physician orders in real-time.
The USC High-resolution Ultrasonic Transmission Tomography (HUTT) system offers superior 3D images of soft tissue, outperforming existing commercial X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI units. The technology uses multi-band analysis with sub-millimeter ultrasonic transducers to create detailed images with improved resolution and precision.
Researchers found significant differences in oxygen consumption and skeletal muscle oxygen conductance between high- and low-running endurance rats. The study, spanning 15 generations, demonstrated coordinated improvements in the oxygen delivery system, including larger hearts and lungs, to maximize efficiency.
The Rheos System uses low-level electrical stimulation to activate the brain's control mechanisms, promoting fluid excretion and reducing blood pressure. The device has shown promise in lowering blood pressure in patients who have not responded to medications.
A study by Mark Hall found that care coordination does not increase liability and may even lower risks for primary care physicians. Care coordination involves comprehensive treatment plans and resolving conflicts among specialists to improve health outcomes and reduce costs.
A Pitt University study reveals that confidence levels among physicians do not always align with their accurate diagnoses. In approximately 1/3 of cases, the physicians' confidence was misplaced, making them more likely to lack confidence in correct diagnoses.
The new £6m biocentre will pioneer a novel approach to genomics, combining theoretical models with experimental data. This will enable pharmaceutical companies to develop safer medicines more efficiently by predicting human reactions in advance.
Professor Kidd's extensive research has significantly impacted the development of early caries detection methods and treatment planning. Her work has been instrumental in shaping best practices for treating dental caries, with a focus on practical clinical applications.
A University of Pennsylvania study identified 22 ways in which CPOE systems facilitate medication errors, including information errors and human-machine interface flaws. The researchers recommend that institutions focus on the organization of work within the hospital and continuously evaluate and improve their technology.
A new study published in JAMA Network found that computerized order entry (CPOE) systems can facilitate up to 22 types of medication error risks. The researchers identified issues such as fragmented displays, pharmacy inventory mistakes, and inflexible ordering formats as contributing factors.
As millions of children with special health-care needs turn 18, researchers warn of a culture clash between pediatric and adult medicine. The influx is putting pressure on healthcare systems, with patients facing difficulties in receiving adequate pain relief and accessing comprehensive care.
A large-scale study of 39,462 members found that electronic medical records can reduce hospitalizations by 19% and annual paid claims by $817. The CareEngine system improved patient outcomes while reducing costs, highlighting the potential of clinical decision support tools.
A large multicenter study will record injuries from non-lethal weapons like Tasers and bean bags, with a focus on documenting the severity of these injuries. The study, led by Wake Forest Baptist, aims to rate the safety of less-lethal weapons for the first time.
The study found that dedicated hospital stroke centers improved quality of acute care by increasing tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) use from 2.4% to 7.7%, reducing disability from stroke, and decreasing complications. This model can motivate other communities to establish similar systems.
The American Heart Association publishes a blueprint to improve stroke care in the US, aiming for seamless transitions and integrated team-based care. The initiative aims to overcome geographical boundaries and increase access to high-quality stroke care for all citizens, regardless of their economic circumstances.
A study found that clinicians reported missing clinical information in 13.6% of patient visits, including laboratory results and medications. Missing information was more likely in recent immigrants, new patients, or those with multiple medical problems.
Researchers at the University of Houston discovered a zebrafish that glows in response to light, shedding light on biological clocks. The per3-luc zebrafish contains genetic material that enables its circadian rhythm without parental influence.
A study by SLU researchers found that African-Americans receive less medical care and smaller compensation packages for work-related back injuries, leading to greater dissatisfaction and long-term disability. This disparity can result in increased costs for the system and individuals, highlighting the need for more equitable treatment.
The Forward Resuscitative Surgery System (FRSS) improved treatment times for critically injured Marines, with median arrival times of one hour. The system also reduced casualty rates compared to previous conflicts, thanks to its rapid access to surgical care.
A study models the hospital's entire system to identify bottlenecks and high-priority strategies for improving patient flow. Engineering techniques aim to optimize triage, scheduling, and resource allocation to reduce delays and costs.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University and Pria Diagnostics LLC collaborate to develop a portable device that can quickly detect infectious diseases and biological agents. The device, which aims to produce its first portable HIV monitor within two years, utilizes microfluidic devices and micro-optical fluorescence spectroscopy.
A new high-resolution ultrasound imaging device, SCAD, can monitor and diagnose bone quantity, density and strength in space. The technology has the potential to aid diagnosis for a number of skeletal disorders and improve treatment outcomes for people suffering from osteoporosis.
The invention uses protein-DNA chimeras to detect and count small numbers of molecules, offering exquisite sensitivity and dynamic range. Methods based on these molecules are designed to work with existing PCR machines, making them useful for human disease diagnosis, environmental monitoring, and pathogen detection.
A team of MIT researchers has successfully created a patch of heart tissue that displays characteristics of mature cardiac tissue, including regular contractions. The innovation involves seeding cells onto a biodegradable scaffold and applying electrical signals to mimic natural heart rhythms.
Researchers developed a real-time patient dose-tracking system to prevent radiation-induced skin injuries. The system tracks radiation exposure on the skin, providing physicians with real-time visual feedback to adjust and minimize the risk of burns.
The article highlights three key findings: depression severity impacts functioning and quality of life more dramatically in elderly patients than other chronic medical conditions. Rural blacks have significantly worse diabetes and hypertension control, while 42% of clinic appointments are no-shows due to issues of disrespect by the hea...
The new model of care emphasizes patient-centered care, electronic health records, and primary care services to improve quality and reduce costs. Implementation could lead to significant reductions in healthcare expenditures and increased compensation for family physicians.
Professor Carsten Peterson and his team demonstrate how genes interact to produce stable systems, using the fruit fly as a model organism. They found that canalyzing rules, where one controlling gene activates another without affecting it, are present in almost 200 genetic networks in fruit flies.
The US postmarketing surveillance system requires major restructuring to effectively monitor drug safety. An independent agency would oversee the process, ensuring complete independence from pharmaceutical industry influence.
A study examined the association between cerivastatin sodium and rhabdomyolysis to illustrate the US postmarketing safety-surveillance system's limitations. The authors suggest an outside group should review label changes, new studies, or suspension of sales to balance patient and industry interests.
A randomized trial found that computerized standing orders for influenza and pneumococcal vaccines significantly increased vaccine administration rates compared to physician reminders. Patients with standing orders received vaccinations 12-24% more often, highlighting the effectiveness of this approach in improving preventive care.
A new report provides guidance for monitoring adverse events from dietary supplements, recommending a user-friendly approach and standardized questionnaire to detect and prioritize signals. The report aims to enhance the likelihood of identifying true adverse effects and improve the effectiveness of postmarket surveillance systems.