Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Blood Test Detects Parkinson's Long Before Symptoms

A study led by the School of Health and Medicine at the University of Lancaster in the UK suggests it may be possible to detect Parkinson's disease in the early stages, long before external symptoms emerge, with a simple blood test that looks for a marker called phosphorylated alpha-synuclein. A report on the study appears in the December issue of the FASEB Journal.

Lead investigator Dr David Allsop, told the press:

"A blood test for Parkinson's disease would mean you could find out if a person was in danger of getting the disease, before the symptoms started."

Allsop and colleagues first showed phosphorylated alpha-synuclein is common in people with Parkinson's disease, and then developed a way to detect it in a blood sample.

Allsop said a diagnostic tool that helps detect Parkinson's disease at a very early stage "would help the development of medicines that could protect the brain, which would be better for the quality of life and future health of older people."

For their study, the researchers examined blood samples from a group of 32 people diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and a group of 30 healthy people of the same age who did not have the disease (the controls). They took four samples from the participants with Parkinson's disease, one every month for four months.

When they analyzed the samples they found:

"The levels of [alpha-synuclein] in plasma varied greatly between individuals, but were remarkably consistent over time within the same individual with PD [Parkinson's disease]."

They measured levels of three different forms of alpha-synuclein, including phosphorylated alpha-synuclein. 

Their analysis showed that participants with Parkinson's disease had sigificantly higher levels of phosphorylated alpha-synuclein compared to the controls. This was not the case for the other forms (oligo-alpha-synuclein, and oligo-phospho-alpha-synuclein), nor for the total of all three.

Based on these findings, Allsop and colleagues then went on to develop a simple test that detects phosphorylated alpha-synuclein in the blood that would allow Parkinson's disease to be diagnosed at the stage where brain damage has started to occur, which is long before external symptoms emerge.

They write:

"Immunoblots of plasma revealed bands (at 21, 24, and 50-60 kDa) corresponding to phosphorylated [alpha-synuclein]. Thus, phosphorylated [alpha-synuclein] can be detected in blood plasma and shows more promise as a diagnostic marker than the nonphosphorylated protein."

Dr Gerald Weissmann is Editor-in-Chief of the FASEB Journal. He said most people think of Parkinson's as the outward symptoms, the involuntary movements, but "many people with Parkinson's also develop neurological problems that may be more difficult to detect right away".

"Having a blood test not only helps doctors rule out other possible causes of the outward symptoms, but it also allows for early detection which can help patients and their caregivers prepare for the possibility of the mental, emotional, and behavioral problems that the disease can cause," he added.

The researchers also noted that:

"Longitudinal studies undertaken over a more extended time period will be required to determine whether [alpha-synuclein] can act as a marker of disease progression."

Written by Catharine Paddock PhD 
Copyright: Medical News Today 

AutoPulse


AutoPulse Non-Invasive Cardiac Support Pump

AutoPulse Cardiac Life Support PumpAutoPulse Non-Invasive Cardiac Support Pump. Consistent Compressions. No Interruptions.

AutoPulse Info by E-Mail
For victims of Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA), only one thing is certain - chest compressions will be required. Yet, manual compressions - even when they are done well - only provide 10 - 20% of normal blood flow to the heart and 30 - 40 % to the brain.1

Non-Invasive Cardiac Support Pump

Now, there's an alternative. The only device of its kind, the ZOLL®AutoPulse® is a revolutionary non-invasive cardiac support pumpthat moves more blood, more consistently than is possible with human hands.2,3,4 Easy to use and battery operated, its load-distributing LifeBand® squeezes the entire chest. As a result, victims receive more consistent, high-quality compressions than those delivered by simple automated CPR devices, which means improved blood flow.

Minimizes No-Flow Time

AutoPulse also minimizes no-flow time. It allows rescuers to provide compressions while performing other life-saving activities, or while transporting a victim down the stairs or in the back of a moving ambulance.

Improved Blood Flow For Cardiac Arrest Victims

The AutoPulse cardiac support pump delivers improved blood flow without interruptions of fatigue and provides hospital caregivers better access to the patient resulting in the possibility of improved survival for cardiac arrest victims. In fact, the AutoPulse cardiac support pump has been shown to triple survival-to-hospital discharge 5.

Ensures Clinical Safety

  • Ensures improved blood flow by squeezing the entire chest, not just pushing on a single spot like manual CPR and other mechanical devices
  • Is fast, easy and intuitive to start-up and use - it doesn't require manual adjustments because it automatically calculates the size, shape and resistance of each patient's chest
  • Functions as an "additional person"
  • Ensures clinical safety
  • Ensures rescuer safety during transport
References
1. Kern K et al. Bailliere's Clinical Anaesthesiology. 2000;14(3):591-609.
2. Halperin HR et al. Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 2004; 44(11):2214-2220.
3. Ikeno F et al. Resuscitation. 2006;68:109-118.
4. Timerman S et al. Resuscitation. 2004;61:273-280.5.
5. Ornator JP et al. American Heart Association Annual Meeting. 2005

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Ambu aScope 2


Ambu® aScope 2

Ambu® aScope™ 2 is a single-use flexible intubation scope that guides most difficult airway intubations and PDT procedures. The product is sterile and ready to use.
Request a Quote
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aScope 2

The single use concept is an ideal solution for the OR or ICU as well as outside core elective areas1 as it is ready to use whenever needed. After use it can just be discarded as with any other disposables used. In short, the Ambu® aScope™ 2 provides greater convenience for everyone involved.

A reusable screen – Ambu® aScopeTM Monitor – is used for displaying the video signal from the aScope 2.
The aScope 2 adds new possibilities to the field of anaesthesia and takes single patient use to a higher level of sophistication and practicality. 

Key features

  • No risk of cross contamination: Single patient use only.
  • Ready for use after connection to the Ambu® aScope™ Monitor
  • 8 hours of usage
  • ClearLens design with optimised image quality.
  • Availability: Low start-up investment.
  • Cost effective: no cleaning and repair costs.
  • A powerful solution for monitoring during Percutaneous Dilatational Tracheostomy
     
1 A. Norris, P. Wakeling, M. Wiles, R. McCahon, M. Bennett, Costs associated with fibrescope inventory: what role for a disposable scope?, DAS 2010 (Poster)

PDT is not part of indication for use in the USA
October 2011Note: US: Rx Only

Monday, November 28, 2011

ZOLL Propaq MD


Propaq MD

Propaq MD

The Smallest, Lightest, Most Advanced Monitor/Defibrillator for Military and Air Medical Operations

The Propaq® MD is a new ultra-lightweight compact device with highly sophisticated, advanced capabilities that combine the well-accepted and proven features of Propaq monitorswith the clinically superior therapeutic capabilities of ZOLL defibrillation and non-invasive pacing technologies. The Propaq MD is 60 percent smaller and 40 percent lighter than other similar monitor/defibrillators. It is two pounds lighter than the current military vital signs monitor, the Propaq 206, even with defibrillation and pacing added.

Airworthy Device With Advanced Monitoring And Defibrillation

The Propaq MD provides an unmatched combination of capabilities that include a large, high-contrast color LCD display capable of viewing up to four waveforms simultaneously, as well as a full 12-lead ECG for on-screen review. It also offers a unique night vision goggle (NVG) mode for military and air medical night time operation. All physiological monitoring parameter values, including heart rate, SpO2, ETCO2, respiration, non-invasive blood pressure, two temperatures, and three invasive pressures, are shown in large color-coded numeric formats. The device is capable of monitoring all patients, whether adult, pediatric or neonatal. Alarms are provided for all parameters. The Propaq MD is the only FDA-cleared airworthy defibrillator to provide monitoring of three invasive pressures necessary for treating critical patients during long transports.

Long-Lasting, Rechargeable Battery System

A new battery system and AC power charger provides worldwide land, sea and air operating capability. The system can monitor all physiological parameters, including three invasive pressures and two temperature channels, for over six hours on a single battery charge.

Full Downloadable Data Collection And Trending

In addition to real-time monitoring, the Propaq MD has a full data collection and trending capability. Keys are provided to annotate all ACLS interventions such as intubation, drug administration, and associated ECG and other physiological waveform segments. Full trending data is available on the unit’s display from its integral memory, supporting data collection over 24-hour periods. Trends can include 1,000 time-stamped events and 32 snapshots of treatment. All data can be downloaded to a standard USB flash drive and transferred to electronic medical records using an open architecture XML format. An integrated printer can provide immediate documentation of events and diagnostic ECG traces.

Sunday, November 27, 2011

The Connex® Integrated Wall System




Welch Allyn Connex® Integrated Wall System
Physical assessment and vital signs documentation in one convenient system.

The new Connex Integrated Wall System provides everything vital for improved patient safety, speeding patient flow and saving valuable time and space.

  • Eliminates frustrating and time-consuming searches for equipment
  • Immediately view patient data, then send it directly to an EMR/HIS/EHR system
  • Prevents tools from being lost, stolen or misplaced
  • Enhances the visibility of information to your patients, improving communication and compliance
  • Eliminates tangled, hanging cords
  • Provides accurate data every time, speeding decision-making
  • Open architecture design allows for custom configuration and expansion

Saturday, November 26, 2011

XPREZZON by SpaceLabs



XPREZZON delivers innovative technology and design, to shape the new age of care for clinicians and patients alike. XPREZZON is:

Trendy

A high-resolution screen displays crisp and visually rich Custom Trends for faster, better informed patient assessment. With a single touch, clinicians can access different trend views based on observation needs, type of procedure, or clinical protocols. Trends can be displayed continuously on the bedside monitor for real-time updates, or can be sized and arranged as preferred.

Enlightened

Highly visible LED alarm lights illuminate, front and back, for increased visual awareness.

Expansive

With Spacelabs Dynamic Network Access™ (DNA) the optional dual display allows a dedicated full screen view of physiologic information, plus a secondary screen for charting and other clinical applications. Workstation performance.

Versatile

Ergonomic and versatile mounting solutions enhance the overall appearance of the care environment. Various solutions for both monitor and cable management ensure a more organized and efficient workflow at the bedside.

Sensitive

XPREZZON is the first patient monitor sensitive to a patient's need for a good night's rest. It intuitively dims the display in low ambient light.

Anywhere

Spacelabs' innovative ICS XPREZZ™ provides the ultimate freedom and confidence – patient information on your mobile device – anywhere you have mobile access.

Connected

Fully backward compatible, XPREZZON presents a seamless transition between platforms. It also features a highly intuitive touch screen user interface, universal to all Spacelabs patient monitors, to simplify learning and promote the continuity of workflow.


Friday, November 25, 2011

Masimo Pronto-7




Pronto-7 — with rainbow 4D Technology — for noninvasive and quick spot checking of hemoglobin (SpHb®), SpO2, pulse rate, and perfusion index

A New Solution for Spot Checking

For the first time ever, technology in the Masimo Pronto-7 offers noninvasive and quick spot checking of hemoglobin (SpHb), SpO2, pulse rate, and perfusion index, which may provide the following benefits:

CLINICIAN

  • > Facilitates timely assessment

STAFF

  • > Easy to use — reduces training time and improves efficiency
  • > Requires no lab consumables or waste disposal

PATIENT

  • > Enables immediate face-to-face counseling with clinician

It's As Easy As 1-2-3


Place sensor on finger

Press test button

Obtain results
Automatically saved — option to print,
e-mail, or manually record

SpHb Accuracy

In 3,519 comparisons of SpHb and invasive hemoglobin (tHb) measurements from a laboratory reference device, SpHb accuracy was as follows:1
  • > -0.06 g/dL bias
  • > 0.82 g/dL at one standard deviation
  • > Below 12 g/dL, 100% of SpHb readings were <2 g/dL of the laboratory tHb value
  • > At or above 12 g/dL, 99% of SpHb readings were <2 g/dL of the laboratory tHb value
  • 1 Masimo FDA 510(k) Clearance Submission Data (Technical Bulletin, Accuracy of Noninvasive Spot-Checking of Total Hemoglobin with the Masimo Pronto-7).

Thursday, November 24, 2011

Thermogard XP Temperature Management System


Thermogard XP Temperature Management System

Thermogard XP Temperature Management System (therapeutic hypothermia)Precise and Rapid Control

The Thermogard XP® Temperature Management System provides the next level of precise and rapid control of your patient's core temperature for both cooling and warming applications.
The Thermogard XP System can handle even the most challenging temperature management situations with additional cooling power unmatched by any other method on the market.
The target temperature and rate of temperature change are set on the Thermogard XP system which controls the temperature of the saline flowing within the Alsius Catheter balloons.
Patient and system data are automatically sampled every 60 seconds and a change in patient temperature as small as 0.01°C triggers an immediate adjustment in the saline temperature.
Thermogard Temperature Management System ScreeenThermogard Temperature Manamgement Graph Trend
View current patient and system data on the system display or synchronize with your hospital monitor.
Track patient and system data and electronically transfer to the patient's file.

Same User-Friendly Interface And Functionality As CoolGard 3000

For hospitals currently using a CoolGard 3000® System, bringing a Thermogard XP system on-line will be fast and easy.
  • Identical operation and user interface
  • No difference in disposable inventory - same start-up kits/samecatheters can be used on both systems
  • No need to retrain nursing staff

Sunday, November 20, 2011

ZOLL AED PRO


AED Pro Automated External Defibrillator

AED Pro Automated External DefibrillatorOne Tough Defibrillator. For One Tough Job.


Whether used in a hospital or in the field, the new ZOLL AED Pro®is designed to perform in any environment. The AED Pro provides the ruggedness, portability, and advanced functionality thatprofessional rescuers and services require from an AED.

The Most Rugged, Full-Featured AED For Professional Rescuers

Designed with advanced capabilities, the ZOLL AED Pro supports Basic Life Support as well as Advanced Life Support professionals. This advanced AED features a high-resolution LCD display that allows responders to visualize a patient's ECG while utilizing a 3-lead monitoring cable.
Unique to ZOLL AEDs is a real-time feedback mechanism, known as Real CPR Help®, which allows rescuers to see and hear how well they are performing the rate and depth of chest compressions during CPR. Real CPR Help, includes a metronome set at the AHA recommended 100 bpm and a screen display which helps rescuers achieve optimum rate and depth of compression levels through audible and/or visual prompts.
For the professional rescuer the AED Pro now offers the ability to view a patient's underlying ECG rhythm with See Thru CPR® When the AED Pro is in manual mode and CPR chest compressions are being performed, See-Thru CPR is activated.  See-Thru CPR reduces interruptions by allowing clinicians to see organized electrical activity while CPR compressions are being performed by filtering out compression artifact ("noise").  This allows rescuers the ability to see a patient's underlying cardiac rhythm during resuscitation efforts and eliminates the need to stop compressions to see if defibrillation was successful.

ZOLL AED Pro Features:

  • Superior AED design and rubber over-molds are built to withstand harsh environments.
  • Real CPR Help for rate and depth of chest compressions during CPR using ZOLL's unique one-piece CPR-D-padz®.
  • See-Thru CPR allows a rescuer to view a patient's underlying ECG rhythm while performing CPR.
  • Exceptionally resistant to dust and water jets (IP55 Rating)
  • Only AED in the industry to withstand a 1.5-meter drop test, making it suitable to withstand the rough treatment typically found in an emergency medical environment.
  • Available as semi-automatic only or semi-automatic with manual override for ALS professionals.
  • Built-in internal memory and external USB memory technology allows expanded data storage capacity, and maximum flexibility for data management and transfer.
  • Electrodes and battery compatibility with ZOLL M Series®E Series® and R Series® professional defibrillators.
  • ECG monitoring with 3-lead cable and high-quality display.
  • Unrivaled battery options (long-life disposable or rechargeable) that meet your specific needs.
  • Easy unit configuration through ZOLL's administration software.
  • Intelligent pediatric capability
  • 2010 Guidelines-ready.