The Cardiovascular Package for the new Aplio series ultrasound systems features ‘Picture Perfect Ultrasound’ for the cardiovascular segment on Aplio 300, 400, and 500 together with advanced features such as Tissue Enhancement and Wall Motion Tracking. The Cardiovascular Package which has been developed together with key opinion leaders in Japan, Europe, and the USA, includes features such as Tissue Enhancement for extreme image quality in transthoracic and transesophageal imaging, flexible M-Mode, comprehensive measurement programs, an on-board reporting module, a very user-friendly stress echo imaging tool, and a soft ware for automatic measurement of intima-media-thickness (IMT)’. The new Aplios can operate a wide range of high performance transducers offering for many applications in the areas of echocardiography and vascular imaging powerful, user friendly, and flexible workflow solutions. A highlight of the Cardiovascular Package is the new Wall Motion Tracking application. ‘High-fi delity’ raw data-based speckle tracking technology from the latest version of the Artida, Toshiba’s flagship product in echocardiography, is now available on the new Aplio series supporting the initiative of the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) and the European Association of Echocardiography (EAE) to achieve a standardization of speckle tracking measurements. Wall Motion Tracking on the new Aplio is easy-to-operate, contains comprehensive measurement capabilities, including various strain and strain rate parameters, and can be evaluated directly on the ultrasound system or off -line on the post-processing workstation.
Read more

An early risk assessment of lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) patients is essential for optimizing treatment and rational resource allocation. Adrenomedullin (ADM) has a significant presence in the course of LRTI and is strongly associated with a patient’s risk of mortality and severe complications. ADM reflects a patient’s risk profile while its elevation is independent of the LRTI etiology. A robust method to assess ADM levels is the measurement of a stable surrogate marker, the midregional fragment of ProAdrenomedullin (MR-proADM). The only available automated immunoassay is from Thermo Fisher Scientific. Biomarkers are an additional or alternative tool to improve prognostic accuracy of clinical scores such as Pneumonia Severity Index (PSI), C(U)RB etc. The validation of new biomarkers showed that ProArenomedullin performed best as a prognostic marker reflecting severity and prognosis, particularly if combined with clinical risk scores. Directly reflective of ADM production in a 1:1 ratio and well documented for clinical use, the measurement of ProADM (MR-proADM) by immunoassay provides results that are rapidly available to aid timely clinical decision-making. The assay features small sample volume (26μL) and measurement in EDTA plasma.
Read more

The Cervical Biopsy Punch with Rotation has been designed to remove the risks of crosscontamination which can occur when reusing hard-to-clean instruments on patients undergoing cervical cancer biopsies. The nylon-based trigger handle and the metal jaw were developed using the most advanced materials, techniques and expertise available. The shaft and inner rod – made from stainless steel – actuate the jaw ensuring no movement or flex occurs, enabling a sharp and clean cut. With the sheer volume of cervical biopsies taken every year (over 1.5 million in Europe), this device could have huge potential.
Read more

The model DR660 portable scale provides mobile bariatric weighing making it ideal for visiting home healthcare nurses. The 21.5 inch (56 cm) wide platform accommodates broad stances inherent in bariatric patients. The weighing platform is only 2 inches (5 cm) high, requiring only a minimal step and features a non-skid rubber mat for patient assurance and safety. The features of this model are i) 660 lbs. (300kg) capacity, ii) 1 inch (25 mm) high bold LCD readouts, iii) RS232 serial port for EMR/EHR connectivity, iv) carrying handle and v) rechargeable built-in battery. There is also a HOLD function, which retains weight on the display after a patient has stepped off the scale, thereby allowing for patient attendance before recording measurements.
Read more