Neuroendovascular Coil and the Risks Associated

Endovascular coiling is a procedure is performed to hinder the flow of blood into an aneurysm which is a weakened area in the wall of an artery. Recently, this method is more frequently used in treating brain aneurysms and the process if termed as Neuroendovascular Coil or aneurysm coil embolization. The coiling method was first introduced in the 1990s as a way of treating ruptured or unruptured aneurysms without the need for a craniotomy, i.e., not having to have to open the head to expose the brain. Neuroendovascular Coil is a minimal invasive technique in which the coiling is done using a catheter and by approaching the aneurysm from within the blood vessel. During this procedure, a catheter is passed through the groin or hip up into the artery that contains the aneurysm, after which the platinum coils are released (neuroendovascular coil).  These metal coils stimulate clotting (embolization) of the aneurysm and avoid the blood from getting into the bulge and thereby lessen the risk of bleed or re-bleed. Eventually, the residual blood inside the aneurysm clots around the coils and seals the weakened area.

The risks associated with coiling:

A surgeon will discuss all the probabilities before a patient gives a complete consent for the procedure and it is quite likely that the advantages of coiling will strongly preponderate any potential risks. Nevertheless, with any kind of invasive procedure, there are certain risks associated with the process. The probable and potential complications include stroke-related symptoms such as numbness, weakness in the arms and/or legs, slurred speech, or vision-related issues. Furthermore, there are risks of infection, bleeding or arterial damage in the area where the catheter is inserted.

The outcome of Neuroendovascular coil:

Market analysis of Neuroendovascular coil states that prolonged success of endovascular coiling in order to treat aneurysms is approximately 80 to 85%. A recurrence happens when coils do not completely block off the aneurysm or when the metal coils get compacted within the aneurysms. Neuroendovascular coiling is gaining more popularity relatively to the conventional treatment of surgically clipping the aneurysm due to the prevention of subarachnoid hemorrhage, which might result in stroke, paralysis and even death.

Heart-Lung Machine – A Key Device in Cardiac Surgeries

A heart-lung machine is a medical apparatus which renders cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), or mechanical circulatory support of the lungs and heart. It is a medical device used in an open heart surgery to hold up the body at the time surgical procedure when the heart is stopped. It temporarily does the function of the lungs and heart and thereby maintaining the blood circulation and the oxygen content of the patient’s body.  A more technical term of the heart-lung machine is cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) pump or ‘the pump’. The machine comprises of arterial cannula (tubes) and venous, reservoir (to hold blood), polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or silicone tubing, cardiotomy (filtered reservoir), bubbler or membrane oxygenator, arterial line filter pumps, heat exchanger(s), inline blood gas and electrolyte analyzer, flow meter and pressure-monitoring devices. The heart-lung machine has a chamber which receives blood from the body (something that a heart’s right atrium does) and the machine then pumps the blood with an oxygenator, which right ventricle of the heart does. This procedure eliminates the carbon dioxide from the blood and adds oxygen. It also maintains the temperature of the blood and pumps the blood back to the body. The heart-lung machine is connected by sequential tubes which the surgical team places on the patient. Lastly, when the surgical procedure is over, the surgeon in a very gradual manner lets the patient’s heart to recommence its normal function, and the hear-lung machine is weaned-off.

The Heart Lung Machine market study states a fact that the first ever successful open heart surgery by using a heart-lung machine was carried out on 6^th of May, 1953. The machine is used for two primary reasons – (1) Heart can be stopped for a surgery, (2) Help an individual with heart failure.

Several surgical conditions wherein heart-lung machine is put to use:

·         Cardiac valve replacement or repair

·         Coronary artery bypass surgery

·         Transplantation

·         Repair of congenital heart defects

·         Repair of large aneurysms

·         Ventricular septal defects

·         Pulmonary thromboendarterectomy (PTE)

·         Pulmonary thrombectomy

Lastly, a heart-lung machine consists of a pump, cannulae, reservoir, temperature control, and oxygenator, filter, roller/centripetal pump, and connected by a series of PVC or silicone tubes.

Spinal Cord Stimulator and its Advantages

Spinal cord stimulation uses minimal voltage stimulation to the spine to obstruct the feeling of pain. A small device, known as spinal cord stimulator (SCS) is implanted in the body and it transmits a beam of electric current to the spinal cord. The device when turned on emits stimulation which is mildly tingly in the focused area of pain. It assists the patients to manage their symptoms in a much better way and potentially lessen the consumption of pain medications. It is the best option for an individual who suffers from chronic leg and arm pain and have not found any relief with all other therapeutics. A spinal cord stimulator is also termed as a dorsal column stimulator, is the device which placed under skin at the back by performing a minimally invasive surgery. This device in equal intervals sends current to the spinal cord. A small, thin wire carries and transmits the current from a pulse generator to the nerve fibers of the spinal cord. The tingly sensation in the area of pain helps in alleviating the pain as the electric current from the spinal cord stimulator interrupts the pain signal and prevents it from reaching the brain.

Stimulation does not abolish the main source of pain, instead it intervenes with the signal that goes to the brain, and therefore the amount pain relief that an individual receives from a spinal cord stimulator varies person to person. Many patients find the tingly sensation very displeasing and annoying and for such reasons, a trial stimulation session is performed prior to the device being permanently placed. A recent survey on spinal cord stimulator market reveals that this therapy has been in use for more than 35 years and has helped around 350,000 patients across the world to find pain relief. The prime goal for the SCS is a 50% to 70% reduction in pain. Nevertheless, even a little amount of pain relief is quite substantial in helping with day-to-day activities, also with reduction in pain, the consumption of main medication also decreases. Unlike most of the surgical procedures, spinal cord stimulation is reversible. Meaning, if the device does not work for a particular patient for some stated reasons, or if the patient decides to discontinue the therapy, the wires, electrical contacts and the generator can be removed and there are no permanent alterations to the spine.

Prosthetic Liners and their Different Types

Prosthetic liners are protective covers which are made up of flexible, cushioning material. These liners are worn directly against the skin and either act as a substitute for socks or are worn in combination with them. Prosthetic liners are worn over the residual limb as it lessens movement and abrasion between the socket and the skin, and they are specially designed with particular characteristics to work with different suspension systems. One has to choose the right liner which assists in assuring that the prosthesis will fit well and will be comfortable to wear. In the last decade, there has been a tremendous increase in the variety of prosthetic liners which are commercially available. A recent Prosthetic Liners market study states that there are approximately 1.9 million amputees in the United States and around 185,000 amputations surgeries performed every year.

Determining the proposed use, these liners render a few or all of the following advantages:

·         Vigorous and good distribution of the pressure led from the characteristics of the materials

·         Great protection against friction

·         Suspension of the prosthesis when fitted with a lateral attachment

Whether a person is picking up groceries, riding a bike, and/or walking a dog, comfort, confidence and control are the three key requirements in the everyday lives of lower-limb amputees. Prosthetic liners are designed to specially facilitate such activities, roll-on protective covering made of various materials are used to curb the skin abrasions, selling, inflammation and other habitual pain any amputee will experience. Liners provide amputees the needed flexibility to take part in everyday tasks, as they are created using a soft, flexible substance and rolled on a residual limb for safety and deferment of the prosthetic device. Prosthetic liners are available in silicone, polyurethane, and/or mineral-oil derivative. A silicone liner gives high stability and great adhesion if the limb has a lot of soft-tissue; also, silicone is durable and easy to clean. A polyurethane liner has a distinctive ability to flow away from high pressure, meaning, the pressure is well distributed in the socket. It offers accurate, intimate and comfortable fit for all types of residual limbs.

Importance of Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP)

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP) are naturally occurring proteins in the human body which promotes bone growth. The particular family of proteins is involved in innumerable cellular responses. BMPs are a group of growth factors which are also known as cytokines and metabologens. Such proteins which are already present inside the body can be generated, concentrated and positioned in the spinal area for a spinal fusion to take place. Bone morphogenetic proteins are relegated under the transforming growth attribute beta superfamily. Also, they can create a fusion without the need for any use of the patient’s own bone. Certain BMPs are osteoinductive, which is one of the three prime categories of bone grafts and plays an active role in bone formation and maintenance. Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP) were first insulated by a scientist named Marshall Urist way back in 1965, who found their ability to infuse the bone and cartilage formation. The proteins sequence in humans might be manufactured synthetically in a consistent and controlled process; this process is commonly referred as recombinant technology, therefore the name "rhBMP" (recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein). Up to now, almost 20 different BMPs have been ascertained, out of which only BMPs 2, 4, 6, 7, and 9 are proved to play a vital role in bone formation. Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) Market suggests that these proteins are highly osteoinductive and should go via stringent preclinical and clinical trials before Premarket Approval (PMA) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The key goals of using BMP in spinal fusions are:

·         To generate spinal fusion along with making use of patient’s own bone.

·         To alleviate the necessity for harvesting the patient’s bone from his/her hip and hence preventing the possible side effects and associated complications of the bone harvesting procedure.

Successful growth of a product for use in spinal fusion involves picking the osteoinductive molecule, the amount of the bone morphogenetic protein needed, and the process of delivery, along with conducting consequent clinical and preclinical studies to assess its safety and efficiency. A few of the bone morphogenetic protein as for the products are concerned render for revolutionary therapies in orthopedic practice.

Importance of Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Mesenchymal stem cells, also known as MSCs, are multipotent stromal cells which can mark the difference into a variety of cell types, which includes chondrocytes (cartilagecells), osteoblasts (bonecells), myocytes (musclecells), and adipocytes (fat cells). This process development has been registered in particular cells and tissues in living animals and the equivalent growing in tissue culture. Mesenchymal stem cells are adult stem cells conventionally found in the bone marrow. Nonetheless, these stem cells are also insulated from several other tissues which include peripheral blood, cord blood, fetal liver, lungs, and fallopian tube. Mesenchymal stem cells are a distinctive entity to the mesenchyme, embryonic connective tissue which is a derivative of the mesoderm and distinguishes to form hematopoietic stem cells. Geomorphologically, these cells have which have long tapered and thin cell bodies along with a large nucleus. As compared to the other stem cell variants, MSCs have a higher capacity for self-renewing at the same time sustaining the multipotency. Therefore, these cells have tremendous therapeutic potential for tissue repair.

Applications of Mesenchymal stem cells:

MSCs in the body can be activated and mobilized if required, nevertheless, the efficacy is little.MSCs have their applications is a few of the following diseases:

Osteo-diseases – An analytics based on a certain statistics of MSC therapy for osteo-diseases (osteoarthritis) cited that most of the studies are yet underway.

Autoimmune disease –Minimum of 218 clinical trials probing into the efficiency of MSCs in treating diseases have been initiated out of which many were autoimmune diseases. Many successful and promising results have been shown in conditions such as multiple sclerosis, graft versus host disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, Crohn's disease, and systemic sclerosis.

MSCs have great potential for tissue repair and many scientists in the world are investigating whether how MSCs would probably be used for the treatment of diseases pertaining to cartilages and bones. The Mesenchymal stem cells market industry has been investigating in a few research and development into therapies for several other diseases, nevertheless, the scientific basis for such applications have not been widely accepted. MSCs are unlimited source to substitute tissue and cells to treat diseases and even disabilities.

Cryotherapy and Conditions Which Require it

Cryotherapy is a pain treatment which makes use of localized and general use of lowered temperatures I order to deaden an irritated nerve. This therapy is used mostly in case of the treatment for variety of malignant and benign tissue damage which are medically termed as lesions. Also, cryotherapy is used as a method of treating localized areas of some cancers such as prostate cancer and to treat abnormal skin cells by dermatologists. The word ‘cryotherapy’ comes from the Greek word ‘Cryo’ which means cold and therapy meaning cure, and it has been used ever since the seventeenth century. The primary motive of cryotherapy is to reduce the cell’s growth and reproduction, improve cellular survival, reduce inflammation, ease out the pain and spasm, and persuade the constriction of blood vessels (also known as vasoconstriction). Also, at the time of extreme temperatures, kill cells by crystallizing the cytosol which is the fluid inside the cells and the method is also termed as intracellular fluid (ICF). The most vital use of the term refers to surgical treatment, particularly called cryosurgery and ice pack therapy.

Conditions that need cryotherapy

Cryotherapy is used to cure and treat conditions which involve irritation and soreness of an isolated nerve. Ordinarily, the conditions would refer to benign nerve growths a.k.a. neuromas and pinched nerves (nerve entrapments). However, certain particular conditions would include cluneal nerve entrapment, nerve irritation between the ribs (intercostal neuralgia), hypogastric neuromas, interdigital neuromas, ilioinguinal neuroma, and lateral femoral cutaneous nerve entrapment. In simple terms, many forms of nerve entrapment can be treated with cryotherapy.

Cryotherapy reduces nerve irritation, however many a time cryotherapy leaves abnormal sensations, such as redness, irritation of the skin and numbness and tingly feeling; although, these effects are temporary. The cryotherapy unite sales market states that minimally invasive procedures and the upsurge occurrence of skin, prostate and cervical cancer and other are cumulatively making this therapy gain more popularity. 

Marine Power (Wave and Tidal) and its Importance

Marine power also known as marine energy, ocean power and/or marine and hydrokinetic energy, is relevant to the energy which is carried by the ocean tides, waves, salinity and oceanic temperature differences. Any kind of movement of water beneath the ocean generates a broad store of kinetic energy or any other energy in motion. This generated marine power (wave and tidal) can be garnered to create electricity to power transport, homes and industries. Marine power comprehends both wave power (power from the surface waves), and tidal power (derived from the kinetic energy of moving water).

Marine Wave Power – It is the transport of energy by wind waves and incarcerate of the generated energy to do efficient work such as water desalination, pumping of water into reservoirs, generating electricity, etc. A machine which is used to exploit wave power is usually known as a wave energy converter (WEC). It is distinctive from the diurnal flux of the tidal power and the steady ringlets of ocean currents. Presently, marine wave power generation is not a broadly employed commercial technology. Plenty attempts, have been made since 1890, however in the year 2008, the first ever experimental wave farm was opened in Aguçadoura Wave Park in Portugal.

Marine Tidal Power – Also termed as tidal energy, it is a form of hydropower which converts the energy from the tides into efficient forms of power, primarily electricity. Tides have more potential are more predictable than the solar power and wind energy, and hence tidal power has an impending for future electricity generation. Tidal power is a renewable energy which has customarily suffered from comparatively higher cost and limited availability of sites with sufficient high tidal ranges or flow velocities.

There are several procedures of harnessing marine energy; nevertheless, presently, wave and tidal are the predominant methods. Tidal energy is further sectioned into tidal range energy and tidal stream. Tidal range energy is comparatively a more established technology, which implies manufacture of tidal barrages. Both, wave and tidal stream energy are new concepts and are in the incipient stages of technology development. Presently, in the Marine power market industry, more than 200 companies across the world function in the wave and tidal energy sector.

Knee Arthroplasty and All You Need to Know About it

Knee arthroplasty is also termed as knee replacement is a surgical procedure which is done to replace the weight-bearing surfaces of the knee joint to alleviate pain and the disability caused due to it. In simpler words, the knee joint which has been damaged due to various probable diseases is replaced with artificial parts i.e., prostheses. A normal knee functions as a hinge joint between the femur and the tibia and fibula. The surface where these bones come in contact with each other, worn-out over a period of time, mostly due to arthritis and/or any other conditions, which might result in excruciating pain and inflammation along with swelling in the knee joints. Knee arthroplasty market is booted by technologies such as 3D printed knee implants which is exclusively manufactured by the U.S. based medical company named ConforMIS.

Knee arthroplasty is performed generally for osteoarthritis along with other knee diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis or any serious accidental damage to the knee joint. Patients, who suffer from severe deformity from trauma, advanced rheumatoid arthritis, and/or long-standing osteoarthritis, might undergo a surgery which is more complex and carry higher risk factor. A certain market study stated that, as of 2010, more than 600,000 total knee arthroplasties were performed each year in the United States alone. Presently, the global

Who are recommended for knee arthroplasty – A knee arthroplasty is quite an invasive surgery and hence is recommended if any of the alternate treatments such as physiotherapy or steroidal injections have not eliminated the pain of bettered the mobility. A total knee arthroplasty is suggested if…

…the knee pain is so chronic that it interferes with the quality of life and sleep.

…the pain, inflammation, swelling and stiffness in the knee joint and the mobility is disrupted.

…day-to-day tasks, such as shopping, bathing witness excruciating pain, and the dependency increases.

…the patient suffering is depressed due to the pain and lack of mobility.

Also, the orthopedic will assess if the patient’s body is well enough to cope with the major surgery and rehabilitation post the surgery. A few other causes of debilitating pain include cartilage defects, ligament tears and meniscus tears, and of these cases might also require knee arthroplasty.

Useful Pointers to Prevent Zika Virus

Zika is a flavivirus which is a mosquito-borne disease occurring primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. This virus was first identified in Uganda in 1947 in monkeys through a complex system which kept a tab on yellow fever, and the first few human cases were found in 1957 in the United Republic of Tanzania and Uganda. The first ever large outbreak of zika cases was reported from the island of Yap in 2007. Besides the mosquito bite, zika virus is also spread sometimes by having unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected person. In May 2015, Brazil accounted the first zika outbreak in the Americas. Approximately, one out of five people show symptoms and the infection is generally quite mild. A few of the most common symptoms are rash, fever, joint pain or red eyes, muscle pain and headache. The symptoms usually start two to seven days after being bitten by an infected aedes mosquito and last for several weeks. Hospitalization and/or deaths from zika are very rare. However, a nerve disorder called Guillain-Barré Syndrome might seldom follow an infection. Also, one of the biggest concern is pertaining to the birth defects which have been witnessed when infected pregnant women give birth, as evidence supports link between zika and microcephaly (a birth defect which leads to incomplete brain development). A few ways one can prevent from acquiring zika virus are mentioned-below.

Clothing

·         Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.

·         One can treat and spray the clothing apparels with permethrin.

Insect Repellent

·         Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents.

·         Avoid using insect repellents on babies younger than 2 months old, instead use mosquito nets.

At Home

·         Use mosquito nets to cover beds and use door screens to prevent mosquitoes from coming in.

·         Use mosquito repellent coil, electrical, sprays, etc.

Sexual Transmission

·         To avoid sexual transmission of Zika, always use condoms.

Unfortunately, zika does not have any effective and successful treatment yet; only paracetamol and ample rest will help with the symptoms. This illness cannot be prevented by any medications or vaccines; one can take all possible above-mentioned precautionary measure to prevent aedes mosquito bite.

Pharma Pellets – Pelletization Technique

The term pellet has been used by several industries to describe a range of clusters produced from different and varied raw materials. Many industries have been making use of pelletization techniques since the 20^th century, however pharmaceutical industry has been showing exquisite interest in this technology in the later phase owing to the rise in the demand of sustained release preparations. Pellets for pharmaceuticals of pharma pellets are defined as semi-spherical or spherical, free slowing solid units. On account of their numerous advantages, pellets have garnered substantial aid and attention in the production of both modified as well as immediate release dosage form. The commercial pellets are formulated with a polymer film coating in order to obtain a controlled release effect. Presently, the palletization technologies are getting more intense as they focus on an effective pathway for the manufacture of oral drug delivery systems. The credit goes to the fact that pellets give many technological, biopharmaceutical, as well as therapeutic benefits over the traditional and conventional oral dosage forms.

Pellets developed through the palletization technique results in better flow, appearance and mixing properties and thereby preventing development of excess dust particles and reducing the segregation. It helps in eliminating detrimental properties and enhances the chemical and physical properties of the fine powders. Pharma pellets are generated via several techniques such as layering, freeze palletization, extrusion or spheronization, spray congealing, cryopelletization, spray drying and compression. Out of all of these techniques, extrusion or spheronization is the most commonly used technique owing to its superior efficacy and simple yet rapid processing. Some of the advantages of pharma pellets are – enhanced safety and efficiency of the active ingredient, decreased handling hazards and user-friendly transport, lessened hygroscopicity, little abrasion, no crystallization, uniform size with tapered distribution, higher drug loading capacity, reduce drug accumulation, pellets disperse freely, etc. Also, pellets render reduced variations in gastric emptying rate and intestinal transit time and thus lessen inter and intra subject variability.

Hemoglobin Analyzer and its Significance

Conducting clinical diagnostic analysis on concentration of hemoglobin is a common blood test, and such types of analyses are performed on hemoglobin analyzers. Hemoglobin analyzers are also termed as HbA1c Analyzer and it has the ability to report the concentration of hemoglobin in urine or blood sample in g/dL, g/L, or mol/L. Hemoglobin analyzers can run in test samples as little as 1uL in just a matter of few minutes. Hemoglobin is a protein which contains iron in the red blood cells (RBCs) and these red blood cells transport oxygen to ever organ and tissues of the human body and carry carbon dioxide from the organs back to the lungs. Besides, the hemoglobin also trusses to various gases such as carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and nitric oxide. Also, there are several types of hemoglobin, out of which a few are said to cause diseases such as sickle-cell anemia. When a hemoglobin test unveils that the levels of hemoglobin in the blood is lower than the normal range, which would mean one is anemic. Anemia can be caused due to various reasons which include profuse bleeding, chronic diseases, and vitamin deficiencies. If a hemoglobin analyzer displays the hemoglobin levels greater than the normal level, it could mean many possible reasons like - polycythemia vera (PCV), smoking, dehydration, excess vomiting, living at high altitude, etc.

Hemoglobin tests are done in cases like:

Overall Health checkup – where the medical professional examines the hemoglobin as a part of complete blood count (CBC).

While diagnosing a medical condition – when an individual feels weak, experiences shortness of breath of dizziness, the healthcare professional might suggest a hemoglobin test to determine the underlying cause.

While monitoring a medical condition - when an individual is diagnosed with polycythemia vera or anemia, hemoglobin test is must to keep a tab on the hemoglobin levels and accordingly alter the treatment.

Hemoglobin analyzers work by either pricking the fingertip or inserting a needle into a vein of the arm, and taking a sample of the blood. 

Different Types of Breast Imaging

Breast imaging is more commonly termed as mammography and it is the most specific and specialized medical imaging which makes use of a low-dose x-ray system to view inside the breasts. The test is done prior to a woman starts experiencing the symptoms as it helps in early detection and diagnosis of breast diseases. X-ray radiography is a non-invasive medical test which helps healthcare professionals to diagnose and treat any medical conditions. Breast imaging is the key step in early detection of breast cancers because it can establish alterations in the breast up to two years prior to you or your medical practitioner can feel them physically. The American College of Radiology (ACR) and the American Medical Association (AMA) suggest that every woman who is above the age of 40 must get a mammogram once a year. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) further suggests that women who have a hereditary case of breast cancer must consult their healthcare professional about what and when to start screening. There are different technologies of breast imaging and each has different methods of scanning, of which mammography has already mentioned above.

Breast MRI – Magnetic resonance imaging of the breast makes use of strong magnetic field, radio waves, and a computer to generate the intricate pictures of the breasts from within.

Thermography – It is a non invasive, painless high-tech clinical test and does not involve any exposure to radiation. This technique is most efficient for early detection.

Tomosynthesis – Digital breast tomosynthesis which is commonly referred as tomo is a 3D mammography. It is uses screening and diagnostic breast imaging tool to enhance the early signs of breast cancer.

Nuclear imaging – It is a process of developing images by detecting radiation from several parts of the body post a radioactive tracer material is given to the patient. The nuclear imaging expert construes the images to conclude the diagnosis.

Breast Ultrasound – This technique is used to examine if a breast lump is filled with fluid material and/or if it is a solid lump.

At the time of mammography, a particular skilled radiologist will position the breasts in the mammography unit and the breast will be put on a specific platform and squeezed with a clear plastic paddle.

Benefits of Skin Toner and What You Need to Know About Them

A healthy and supple skin speaks volumes about regular grooming habits and skin toner is one of the most vital components of a skin regime. Regular use of a cleanser and a toner can help your skin look hydrated and toned. Our skin is usually acidic in nature having an estimated pH level of approximately 6 and skin toners help in restoring the skin’s natural pH level. A toner’s function is to deep-clean the skin by removing dust, pollution, dirt, oil, and all the impurities which can still are persistent post washing with a cleanser, because most of the cleanser consists of certain ingredients such as oil, which leaves a film on the layer of the skin. Skin toners also help in removing the makeup which get conglomerated in the pores of the skin and shrink the appearance of the pores. Many dermatologists recommend the use of toners regularly as they refresh and prep-up the skin and reduce irritation and inflammation caused because of several environmental factors. Toners control the oil secretion of the skin and give anti-aging nourishment to the skin.

Most of the toners are water-based liquids which comprises of particular ingredients such as essential oils, plant extracts, tailor-made to suit every skin type. There are different types of toners, such as calming and soothing toners, hydrating toners, and astringent toners. Astringent toners are the strongest form of toner and consists a higher proportion of alcohol (20% to 60%), water, antiseptic properties, and a humectants ingredient. Astringents are generally recommended for oily skins since they are more drying on the skin. As per a common myth, removing oil regularly from the skin does not make the skin secrete more oil. One can use a water-based, non comedogenic moisturizer in case the skin becomes too dry after using an astringent. Toners are usually applied to the skin in different ways – spritzing on a damp cotton ball and applying on the skin downward, by spraying directly on the skin, or by putting a tonic gauze facial mask (which is nothing but a gauze covered with skin toner and covered on the face and left for a few minutes.

Definition of Asthma and the Drugs Associated

Asthma which is actually pronounced as ‘Aaz-ma’ is a chronic respiratory condition wherein the airways which lead to the lungs become inflamed and tapered. It may result in a grave and incurable condition if left untreated. Asthma leads to reoccurring and persistent wheezing, i.e., a whistling noise while breathing, breathlessness, tightness in the chest, and coughing. Asthma cough generally occurs early in the morning or at night. The inner walls of the airways are inflamed, swollen and red. This inflamed swelling makes the airways exceptionally sensitive to irritants and escalates the vulnerability to an allergic reaction; also the inflammation lets very little air pass through them. Asthma affects people of all ages, although more often than not it starts during childhood. According to a survey, in the United States, more than 25 million people are suffering from asthma and of which approximately 7 million are children. Although it depends from person to person, there are plenty of environmental factors which trigger such as cold air, smoke, and various other allergens like dust mites, pollen, and infections. The wheezing starts when the chemicals present in the lungs dramatize with the cold air or dust mites.

Long lasting and prevention control measures are vital in arresting asthma attacks prior to them starting. The treatment generally comprises of learning to acknowledge your triggers, taking precautions to prevent them and keeping tab on the breathing pattern to make sure that the daily dose of asthma medications are keeping the symptoms under check. The appropriate medications for asthma depend on several factors such as age, symptoms, asthma triggers and what works best to control it. Preventive and lasting medications can control the inflammation in the airways which lead to the lungs. Quick-relief inhalers (bronchodilators) rapidly open-up the inflamed and swollen airways which are obstructing the breathing. Moreover, in certain cases allergy medications are needed. One must jot down an asthma action plan after consulting the doctor such as the dosages, symptoms, and list-down triggers and the necessary steps to avoid them.

Significance of Vertical Farming – Plant Factory

A plant factory is a closed growing facility which helps in balanced and constant production of superior quality vegetables throughout the year. This kind of facility cultivates vegetables by artificially controlling the entire environment, i.e., temperature, light, humidity, culture solution, fertigation and carbon dioxide concentration; and thereby enabling growers to mass production of plants. Plant factory practices vertical farming which is producing food in vertically stacked layers, inclined surfaces or incorporated in various other structures. The modernized and latest techniques of vertical farming make use of controlled-environment agriculture (CEA) technology, in which all the possible environmental elements can be controlled. A few of the vertical farms use procedures analogous to greenhouses, where natural light i.e., the sun can be easily bettered with artificial lighting and metal-reflectors.

A few of the advantages of Vertical farming are –

Can be set up on non-farmland areas, e.g., vacant stores, industrial parks, etc.

Proficient of throughout-year production with stability

Work-friendly environment wherein even disabled as well as elderly people can work

Can hire novice farmers owing to light workload

Safe and superior-quality agricultural production with no or very minimum use of pesticide

Verticalfarming is categorized into three types - Mixed-use skyscrapers, Despommier's skyscrapers and Stackable shipping containers.

Mixed-use skyscrapers – This concept was proposed and executed by architect Ken Yeang. He suggested that as an alternative to hermitically sealed mass-produced agriculture which plant must be cropped within open air, mixed-use skyscrapers for the purpose of climate control and consumption. This variant of vertical farming is dependent on personal and/or community use instead of extensive production along with distribution of plant life which aims to feed a complete city.

Despommier's skyscrapers – This theory of vertical farming surfaced in 1999 at the Columbia University. It encourages mass cultivation of plant life in skyscrapers for commercial purposes. The concept is quite similar to the mixed-use skyscrapers, except that these would predominately be sealed off from the rest of the world and would be operational with very minimum to no human interaction.

Stackable shipping containers – The concept of stacking recycled shipping containers especially in urban settings have become a latest trend. For example, Freight Farms develops a ‘leafy green machine’ which is a full farm-to-table system outfitted along with vertical hydroponics, climate controls, LED lighting, all within a 12m x 2.4m shipping  container.

Uses and Importance of Ammonia

Ammonia (NH₃) is one of the frequently developed chemical compounds which are generally used in various industries. Consisting one atom of nitrogen and three atoms of hydrogen, this chemical is either a strong smelling gas or liquid. It is utilized in several industries and commerce as well as it is present in us, humans and also in the environment.

Many biological procedures require ammonia and it also functions a precursor for amino acids and nucleotide synthesis. Ammonia is a vital part of the entire nitrogen cycle and is developed in soil from bacterial processes. Apart from synthetically producing it, ammonia can also be created in a natural manner by decomposing organic matter which includes animals, plants and animal wastes. Ammonia-based commercial products are many a time used to fertilize crops, and clean grime. This chemical compound is very harmful and even in minimal amount, if got in contact with skin or accidentally inhaled can cause fainting, dizziness, burning and can sometimes prove fatal.

A few of the many physical and chemical properties of ammonia –

It has alkaline properties and is corrosive.

Ammonia, in pure form is called anhydrous ammonia and is hygroscopic (readily absorbs moisture).

Ammonia is generally transported in a compressed manner in steel containers.

It forms a clear liquid when under pressure.

Ammonia in the form of gas is considerably lighter than air. Therefore, it will never be confined indoors like other hazardous gases, like propane. Even though ammonia is pungent, acrid and has a typical odor, it is clear and cannot be easily combusted unless it is very concentrated. This factor makes it much safer than other chemicals for in-house usage. There are many uses of ammonia – approximately 80% of the total ammonia produced by the industries is used as a fertilizer in agriculture. This compound is also used for cleansing of the water supplies and used as refrigerant gas. Apart from these, it is also used in the manufacturing of textiles, plastics, pesticides, explosives, and other chemicals. Ammonia cleaning solutions in household are specifically developed by diluting 5% to 10% ammonia in water.

A Complete Know-how About Goat Milk and its Infant Formula

When we think of milk, by default we visualize cows. Nonetheless, there exists a wide variety of milk and dairy products beyond our cattle pals. In the past few years the milk market has flourished owing to people’s awareness over the benefits of diverse forms of dairy. Goat’s milk has gained tremendous popularity as one of the dairy alternatives; in fact one particular survey conducted states that, “65 percent of the world drinks goat’s milk over cow’s milk.” As a result more and more parents are switching their infant’s formula base to this kind of dairy. Babies born with a cow’s milk protein allergy or who suffer from lactose intolerance might get benefitted from goat milk and goat milk based food product.

Many parents get suggestions from their pediatricians that goat’s milk might settle more comfortably and is also easier to digest in a baby’s tummy having lactose intolerance. But, goat’s milk is not completely lactose-free; it does comprise of small portions of lactose and not all infants will gain advantages from goat-milk based food. In various parts of the world, people prefer goat’s milk over cow’s milk for self and their infants. The proteins present in goat’s milk as compared to cow’s milk forms lesser, softer and looser curd in the stomach. Also, it degrades quicker than cow milk protein. This could be a possible advantage for babies who spit up a lot and/or who go through gastro-esophageal reflux (GER). The allergenic protein known as alpha-S1 casein is found in traces in goat’s milk, but, both goat’s and cow’s milk has a another variant of same allergenic protein called the beta-lactoglobulin. Hence, a few percentage of toddlers are allergic to both cow’s as well as goat’s milk.

However, goat’s milk has less percentage of folic acid, iron and vitamin D and hence it may not be that ideal for children under two years of age. Lastly, to sum up goat’s milk of any infant formula derived from goat’s milk is slightly more beneficial than any other diary variant because of a few factors such as it consists of less allergenic proteins, it is more digestible than the rest, and slightly less lactose.

Benefits of Clinical Trial Management System

A Clinical Trial Management System (CTMS) is a software system used by pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries to deal with clinical trials in clinical research. This systematic software system manages and maintains planning, reporting and executing several functions, along with contact information of the participants. That’s not all one can also track deadlines and set milestones. Any new drug or medical device or therapeutic product prior to a final launch in the market, undergoes a clinical trial which is a medical research related study carried out on humans to ensure the efficiency and safety of those products. Many pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, and clinical research organizations (CRO) have made precise and proper managements of such clinical trials as their priority. Clinical trial management system assists in analysis and storage of drugs associated clinical data. This software system in mainly used to manage large chunk of informative data which includes a great amount of preparation, planning and reporting. This software also renders data to a business intelligence system. Its user-friendliness allows clinicians to keep a tab and manage the clinical trials, especially the one which are very complex in nature.

Globally, Clinical trial management system market is worth approximately US $534.0 million in 2016 and is predicted to grow at a CAGR of 11.5% during the forecast period from 2016 to 2021. The global acceptance of the CTMS software is on demand owing to the efficiency and significance of the outcomes and also the fact that it lessens the cost of amount invested on clinical trials. Major factors which are driving the lucrative growth of CTMS market are rising adoption of CTMS solutions in clinical trials, and increased R&D expenses of the biopharmaceutical pharmaceutical companies. Nevertheless, the acute insufficiency of trained and skilled professionals to function the latest CTMS solutions and restrained budget of small to medium sized biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies along with small CROs are hindering the future growth of this market.

Categories and Treatment of Pressure Ulcers

Pressure ulcers are many a time termed as bedsores, pressure sores or decubitus ulcers. These are localized skin injuries or inherent tissue which generally occurs over a bony protrusion as a result of pressure along with a combination of friction. These pressure ulcers happen owing to the pressure applied to soft tissues which partially or completely block the blood supply to that particular tissue.

These types of ulcers mostly happen to people who have not moved in a long time such as been bedridden or been on a wheelchair. The most common places on the body where these ulcers usually occur are over a bony prominence such as sacrum/ischium, heels, hips (trochanter), even knees, ankles, elbows, back of the head (occipit) and ears, coccyx, and at the back of the shoulders. It has been proved that a few other external factors can also encourage the tolerance of skin for any kind of pressure and eventually increasing the chances of pressure ulcer development. Microclimate (skin wetness because of sweating or incontinence), diseases that lessen the skin’s sensation (paralysis or neuropathy), protein-calorie malnutrition, and diseases that reduce blood flow to the skin (arteriosclerosis) are a few examples. The rate at which these pressure ulcers heal might get affected owing to the age of an individual, his/her health conditions – for instance diabetes, any kind of infection, or arteriosclerosis, having smoking habit, or consuming any anti-inflammatory drugs.

Classification and Treatment of Pressure Injury

Pressure injuries which occur due to pressure ulcers are usually classified depending on the intensity of the damage which has been suffered.

Stage 1 – When the skin remains intact with some visible changes and redness

Treatments – Keep the affected area clean and dry. Apply moisture barrier cream and reduce the pressure on that particular area by repositioning the body.

Stage 2 – When the skin becomes partially thick and has dermis or epidermis

Treatment – Clean the affected area with saline and small amount of hydrogel application is needed. Also, change the dressing every day. Off load the pressure ulcer area by distributing the weight to other places.

Stage 3 – Excessive thickness with necrosis of hypodermic tissue which might extend to underlying fascia

Treatment – Saline cleansing and hydrogel application. Cover the wound with non-adherent dressing and change regularly. Seek the help of a medical practitioner before the wound worsens.

Stage 4 – Complete thickness with skin loss with extreme tissue damage along with muscle and bone damage

Treatment – As this is the extreme stage of pressure ulcer, it might involve surgical procedure and severe medication depending upon the condition.

Apart from the above-mentioned treatments, there are also many products such as pressure relief mattress and bed pads, anti-bedsore mattress/cushions, etc., available in the market which helps in getting some relief from the pressure ulcers. Also, remember to keep yourself hydrated at all times, as dehydration might lead to rapid worsening of the pressure ulcer.

Brief Description of mHealth (Mobile Healthcare) Ecosystem

M-Health ecosystem refers to the habitual practice of rendering health services and health-related information with the help of mobile and electronic devices such as smart phones, tablets, PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants) and wireless infrastructure. mHealth is the most important branch of the e-health (electronic health) and most of the times referred to as wireless health or digital health. mHealth ecosystem helps in providing one-to-one care and treatment for patients living in remote areas who do not have access to any personal medical care and are suffereing from acute illnesses. mHealth is drastically changing the way the world functions today because of the constantly evolving strategy.

 mHealth being ubiquitous, cost efficient along with the personalization of mobile devices are rendering unanticipated possibilities to provide healthcare services as quick and efficient as possible. mHealth is a sub-domain of electronic health technology and is emerging at a lightning speed with far reaching implications for the complete healthcare ecosystem. As per a recent survey, the total number of individuals using mobile monitoring devices with incorporated cellular connectivity surpassed one million in 2012 and is predicted to reach 7.10 million by the end of 2017. mHealth empowers people to opt for healthier lifestyles by making use of wireless monitoring devices in order to better manage acute diseases.

Cancer and diabetic patients using mHealth monitoring devices which constantly monitors medication schedule have been showing better adhesion to the guidelines of the treatment. At the primary care provider end of the mHealth ecosystem using mobile monitoring devices allows smart alert systems which notifies medical practitioners through a platform which is cloud based when a particular patient is not consuming his/her medicines and an intervention is needed. Many government organizations across the world have been investing to a great extent in mHealth ecosystem. The more mHealth ecosystem grows, the technology will emerge as a prime factor in impacting the overall healthcare industry.

What are Hemofiltration Generators and How do they work?

Hemofiltration Generators are machines used in hemofiltration procedure which is a therapy very similar to hemodialysis. This process is used in case of renal failure as a substitute to the function of kidneys. As compared to hemodialysis, hemofiltration is more often than not used in case of severe and acute renal failure or acute kidney injury (AKI) and that too in intensive care settings. The procedure involves the patient’s blood to pass through the hemofiltarion generators which separates out water and waste products from the blood and then adds the replacement fluid (a fluid to preserve the blood volume and supplies electrolytes) just before injecting the treated blood back to the patient’s body.

Hemofiltration is a prolonged, lengthy and uninterrupted process which generally needs 12 to 24 hours per session and is performed on a regular basis for as much as needed depending on the patient’s condition. Also, acute renal failure can be reversed effectively if the diagnosis is done at an early stage with an immediate appropriate treatment. The hemofiltration generators work slightly different from that of the machines used in hemodialysis, meaning the filtration method of both these machines are different. While both the methods involve a use of semi-permeable membrane to filter the blood, hemofiltration generators use convectional heat along with diffusion. The convectional heat enables positive pressure of the fluid to thrust out solutes and water via the filtering membrane, and therefore the hemofiltration generators are more effective than that of a hemodyliasis machine. The heat mechanism of the machine solves the underlying problem in diffusion alone by enabling the filtration of solutes of various sizes at a similar rate; and this rate of blood filtration of differently-sized solutes are balanced with the help of hemofiltration and dialysis one behind the other. It is a procedure which is termed as hemodiafiltration.

Different Functions of a Hemofiltration Generator:

·         To imitate the physiology and functions of the native organ

·         Repairing and maintaining of homeostasis

·         Qualitative and quantitative blood purification

·         Avoid complex and good clinical tolerance

·         Render conditions preferring the early recovery of renal function

Presently, there is an elevated demand of hemofiltration generators on a global level. This is owing to a few key factors such as rise in the number of acute kidney injuries (AKI), rising geriatric population with increasing number of ICU patients. Nonetheless, the complicated procedure and its cost per session, along with strict regulations and insufficiency of trained ICU nurses in the United States are hindering the market growth.