Showing posts with label science. Show all posts
Showing posts with label science. Show all posts
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
The whole point of machines in our lives is to perform tasks that would be
physically or mentally impossible for a mere moral. Why, you would have to be
some sort of Superman if you wanted to replace machines! As children, people
dreamed of growing up to become the Man of Steel. While that has never really
panned out for anyone, people did grow up to become scientists and engineers
who created machines to do everything Superman can. Is he faster than a
speeding bullet? Of course he is. Although we lack the ability to fly by
ourselves, we have invented aircrafts that will Superman a run for his money.
Bell X-1
The Bell X-1 is a classic example of the power of collaboration. They say that two heads are better than one; the Bell X-1 had boffins from three companies working together to create the first aircraft to break the sound barrier. Researchers at the Bell Aircraft Company, NACA (National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics) and the US Air Force worked around the clock to give Captain Chuck Yeager an aircraft that would hit Mach 1. In October 1947, 2 years after the end of World War II, Glamorous Glennis (an X-1 christened for Chuck Yeager’s wife) broke the sound barrier and mankind went supersonic for the first time in history.
Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird
Lockheed Corporation is one of the biggest names in military aviation history. Over the decades, the company has produced some of the finest military aircrafts ever made. However, all of them pale in comparison to the company’s greatest achievement, the SR-71. Nicknamed “blackbird”, the SR-71 is the baby of Skunk Works, Lockheed’s Advanced Development Programs (ADP) division where some of the finest aeronautical brains in the planet are put to work. Operating at the edge of space, where the atmosphere is at its thinnest, the Blackbird cruised at speeds over Mach 3. When targeted by a missile, aircrafts have to outmanoeuvre the weapon so that they are not hit; a Blackbird simply outran any missile fired at it. Officially launched in 1966, the Blackbird remains the fastest air-breathing manned aircraft ever built.
Aerospatiale-BAC Concorde
Having the ability to fly will be thrilling in the beginning, but its charm would probably wear off after some time. What if, for a change, Superman wants to take it nice and easy while crossing the Atlantic, but doesn’t want to sacrifice speed? The son of Jor-El need not fret; the British and French worked together to create the greatest commercial airliner ever made – the Concorde. Cruising at Mach 2, the Concorde has so far been the pinnacle of commercial aviation. Although retired out of service in 2003, we are pretty sure Superman can get his hands on one of these engineering marvels for personal use.
The concept of flight has fascinated mankind since the first time man laid eyes on a bird. Now that we have perfected the art of getting airborne and landing safely, the next goal is to go as fast as science will allow us to. The next time you are looking up to the heavens and see something moving very fast, keep a close eye on it. It could be a bird or it could be a plane. Or it might just be Superman.
Author Bio:
Bell X-1
The Bell X-1 is a classic example of the power of collaboration. They say that two heads are better than one; the Bell X-1 had boffins from three companies working together to create the first aircraft to break the sound barrier. Researchers at the Bell Aircraft Company, NACA (National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics) and the US Air Force worked around the clock to give Captain Chuck Yeager an aircraft that would hit Mach 1. In October 1947, 2 years after the end of World War II, Glamorous Glennis (an X-1 christened for Chuck Yeager’s wife) broke the sound barrier and mankind went supersonic for the first time in history.
Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird
Lockheed Corporation is one of the biggest names in military aviation history. Over the decades, the company has produced some of the finest military aircrafts ever made. However, all of them pale in comparison to the company’s greatest achievement, the SR-71. Nicknamed “blackbird”, the SR-71 is the baby of Skunk Works, Lockheed’s Advanced Development Programs (ADP) division where some of the finest aeronautical brains in the planet are put to work. Operating at the edge of space, where the atmosphere is at its thinnest, the Blackbird cruised at speeds over Mach 3. When targeted by a missile, aircrafts have to outmanoeuvre the weapon so that they are not hit; a Blackbird simply outran any missile fired at it. Officially launched in 1966, the Blackbird remains the fastest air-breathing manned aircraft ever built.
Aerospatiale-BAC Concorde
Having the ability to fly will be thrilling in the beginning, but its charm would probably wear off after some time. What if, for a change, Superman wants to take it nice and easy while crossing the Atlantic, but doesn’t want to sacrifice speed? The son of Jor-El need not fret; the British and French worked together to create the greatest commercial airliner ever made – the Concorde. Cruising at Mach 2, the Concorde has so far been the pinnacle of commercial aviation. Although retired out of service in 2003, we are pretty sure Superman can get his hands on one of these engineering marvels for personal use.
The concept of flight has fascinated mankind since the first time man laid eyes on a bird. Now that we have perfected the art of getting airborne and landing safely, the next goal is to go as fast as science will allow us to. The next time you are looking up to the heavens and see something moving very fast, keep a close eye on it. It could be a bird or it could be a plane. Or it might just be Superman.
Author Bio:
Matt
Pearce, the author of this post, works for a custom aircraft parts supplier and he enjoys writing about his work.
He likes to indulge in cooking for his family in his free time.
Tuesday, May 21, 2013 0
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Technology
has changed the whole world for the better. This is especially apparent in
hospitals, where efficiency and effectiveness have gotten a huge boost.
There is no longer a reason to wait weeks on end for a blood sample or
hours and hours for an X-ray image to pop up on your doctor’s screen. But how
exactly has technology helped hospitals work more effectively?
Computers
As a patient, you probably remember when doctors were still using paper charts. Technology has completely changed the way hospitals store charts and patient data. Now that patient data is stored on computers, the daily life of a hospital is much smoother. This goes beyond desktop computers as well. Handheld computers, tablets, and even smart phones have helped hospitals rise to the top in patient care.
Ultrasound Machines
People may think of the ultrasound machine as a basic device, but it has truly been life changing in the healthcare system. From helping pregnant patients to dealing with someone who may have a body malfunction, ultrasound machines have helped hospitals work more effectively in identifying a problem that would otherwise be difficult or impossible to see with the naked eye. Ultrasound machines help save lives and detect early health problems, which is something that had been lacking previously in medical history.
Medical Accessories
Larger hospitals have it difficult in the sense that they sometimes have to cater to a large crowd of patients on limited resources. Mobile technology has been important in making sure patients are being well taken care of. Computers that are able to move from room to room without any wires or cables have been vital tools for these hospitals. Display machines that show X-ray results and radiology information display machines have also helped hospitals work more effectively.
Infection Detection Technologies
Doctors have a lot of knowledge and experience, but there are technologies that help make their job a little easier. Technology has helped raise infection detection awareness. Doctors can determine serious infections in almost any situation with the help of their knowledge and these advanced technologies.
Social Media
Social media has helped technology work in hospitals more effectively than anyone has ever thought possible. It puts hospitals and patients on an equal level. Patients can express gratitude or talk about an issue they had while being treated. Social media has also allowed hospitals to have more of a voice and a presence in the branding world.
Conclusion
Technology is changing the way hospitals and medical care work these days. Patients are being taken care of faster than ever before and more lives are being saved. Technology includes the most basic of things, like social media, all the way to the more complex things like getting the on-call doctor to a room as quickly as possible.
Thanks to technology working more effectively in hospitals, lab results get back to the doctor quicker and are delivered to the patient sooner. Computers, ultrasound machines, medical accessories, and infection detection technologies are all just the beginning of how technology has changed the medical scene.
Author Bio:
Written by the Technical Consultant Team at Onyx Healthcare, a professional Medical IT company.
Written by the Technical Consultant Team at Onyx Healthcare, a professional Medical IT company.
Tuesday, May 7, 2013 0
Sequential
compression devices are useful for the treatment and mitigation of a wide range
of medical problems. From forcing fluid out of muscle tissue to forcing blood
in, these specialized devices are helping many people treat and mitigate the
pain and soreness that comes with diseases such as peripheral artery disease
and diabetes. Sequential compression devices work by forcing air into a series
of champers in a special sleeve, which can inflate in sequence to help force
fluids out of tissue and to provide "milking motion" to help blood
reach deep portions of the body.
Many
diseases and wounds are treated with the aid of what is known as compression
therapy, which is when a special sleeve or wrap is applied to an area of the
body and applies mild to intense pressure. The pressure is meant to achieve one
of two goals:
First,
compression therapy is used to force retained fluid out of an area of the body.
The human body can retain fluid for many reasons, such as in the case of some
diseases or deep injuries where fluid buildup occurs deep within the body. In
these cases, and because surgery can be an invasive and dangerous process,
compression therapy is used because it can quickly force fluid out of the
body's tissue and allow the body to process it normally. Also, because
compression therapy is a noninvasive process, it can usually be applied over
the course of a few visits to the doctor's office or, in many cases, at the
patient's home during their leisure time.
Second,
compression therapy is used to force the supply of blood to reach areas where
it is being blocked from. Because many injuries cause swelling, and because
some diseases can hamper the body's ability to pump blood to all areas where it
needs to be, a compression wrap or sleeve can be used to force blood into the
deeper parts of the human body, supplying needed nutrients and oxygen to organs
and to deep tissue. Similarly to forced fluid removal therapy, compressed blood
flow therapy is a noninvasive procedure that does not require surgery. Because
of this, it is often used when surgery would be unnecessary, or dangerous.
Because
there are many things that can disrupt the flow of blood to the deep tissues of
the body, and because of the noninvasive nature of compression therapy, this
new technique is seeing increased use not only in hospitals and at primary care
locations, but for in-home and out-patient care as well. Compression therapy
can be used for a wide range of diseases and medical problems, and because it
is typically covered by health insurance, many people can see the benefits of
this pain free procedure today.
Author Bio:
Paul is a
freelance writer and blogger for Spectrum Healthcare who is interested in pain management, in-home patient care, and
in lymphedema compression. For more information on sequential compression devices, and to
see how an SCD can help you, visit Spectrum Healthcare on the web today at
spectrumhealthcare.net.
Sunday, May 5, 2013
Mars
has long been a source of mystery to us. Numerous studies have shown that the
Red Planet show similarities to Earth that could mean that the planet may be
able to sustain human life, but are these enough for us to think that permanent
human habitation on Mars is a doable feat?
The Allure of Living in Mars
The idea of living on Mars is not farfetched. There have been NASA proposals for two-way trips to Mars to see if human habitation for a defined period of time is possible there. Private companies like Mars One and 4Frontiers have been conducting studies for a possible colony on Mars and are in talks for opening applications for those who want to be the first batch in this mission which is slated for 2023. The allure of being pioneers and being able to explore this planet for the first time is definitely going to be one driving factor for those who are interested, especially for adrenaline junkies and adventurers who feel like Mars is the next boundary to conquer.
Another possible reason is the exploration for minerals. Mars is rich in mineral deposits, and it might even be home to new kinds of minerals that we do not have on Earth. Drilling for natural resources is one of the first industries once habitation in Mars is found to be feasible.
Potential
Obstacles
Of course, scientists want to temper the excitement with some words of caution. Humans have not tried one way missions before and even two way missions come with potential problems. A big factor which causes concern is how the brain will react to lengthy space missions such as these. Human behavior can be unpredictable sometimes, especially in alien environments. How humans will cope with the closed space during the trip, the loneliness and the isolation still have to be determined. Simulations to train astronauts or scientists for lengthy underwater research have shown that the prolonged isolation, decreased exposure to the sun and living in an enclosed space for years can change how the brain reacts and can cause alterations in mood, sleep, and overall behavior.
Another factor to consider is the potential health risks that could arise when humans are exposed to 40% gravity at all hours of the day. Days are also longer than 24 hours, which is just one of the many changes that hopeful colonizers would likely face. How these will affect the function of major organs is yet unknown.
Although the prospect of colonizing Mars may be an enticing one, it is clear that this feat still requires further study. How the planet and its environment will affect human behavior is a matter of speculation. A cause for concern is Mars One's planned exploration which will be composed of astronauts who are chosen by the public, not by trained and expert scientists. Even NASA scientists are unsure about how to choose the best astronauts for long term, one-way flights to Mars so there is a big question whether or not Mars One's chosen astronauts are suited for the mission. Perhaps it is better to consider two-way trips and limited periods of stay on the Red Planet to give us an idea how exactly it is like to live on Mars. Data gathered on this short-term missions could be very helpful in determining how humans will fare for longer durations on the planet.
Author Bio:
John is a passionate blogger and enjoy writing about science and technology topics.
John is a passionate blogger and enjoy writing about science and technology topics.
Sunday, May 5, 2013 0
Thursday, May 2, 2013
Most of us are aware on some level that the
future of energy will come down to renewable resources - sun, wind and water.
But how do we get from here to that picture perfect planet, where humans
happily exist using only environmentally friendly, limitless resources? In our
lifetimes - what does the future of energy look like?
At the moment the vast majority of the country - nae, the world - is dependent on fossil fuels. Oil, coal and natural gas are still used in abundance in many areas of modern life. Forming hundreds of millions of years ago, people have got used to treating these natural fossil fuels like an infinite resource. But now they're running out. And it's serious.
And that’s not our only problem. The burning of these fossil fuels is also contributing to the destruction of the Earth's atmosphere and ultimately our planet. In fact, since the start of the Industrial Revolution, there has been a 40 per cent increase in the concentration of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere.
The UK government has made a commitment to cutting carbon emissions by 80 per cent before the year 2050 (compared to 1990 levels). So throughout the course of our lifetimes, we can expect some big changes.
The centre point of this change is, of course, renewable technology. Solar panels, wind turbines, biomass heating systems, hydro power and heat pumps are all becoming more and more common. But they're expensive, and still far outnumbered by traditional methods of energy generation.
A number of government initiatives are already in place to try and encourage the uptake of renewable technology in homes and businesses across the country, such as the Green Deal and the Renewable Heat Incentive. These initiatives offer financial support in the form of loans or payments to people installing various types of renewable energy. And although these incentives are working to a certain extent and making renewables slowly becoming more commonplace, many still have doubts - and one of the biggest is the undeniable fact that these technologies alone are not yet enough to provide for all our energy needs.
Despite our continued reliance on certain traditional methods of energy generation, the UK must forge ahead with the closure of coal-fired power stations if it's going to meet its climate targets. However, this could leave our resources dwindling, with an ever-closing gap between our generation demand and capacity.
In the long-term, focus will move towards new-build nuclear plants and extensive offshore wind generation areas, which are expected to become increasingly important as onshore wind sites become more limited. But for now, according to a recent report published by Carbon Connect, plants should be switched to run on biomass or gas to reduce emissions in the first instance. This is where a large amount of responsibility falls to major energy suppliers like npower to invest in new power stations across the country, working alongside government to fund the future of energy in the UK.
This means for now, we are most likely to continue to see rising costs in energy. However, working together, consumers, energy suppliers and the government can help shift attitudes, make renewable and energy efficient technologies a part of the present and ultimately, help bring Britain closer to a clean, green future.
Author Bio:
Mike
Johnson is a freelance writer working for a marketing agency. This post has
been written for an energy supplier npower.
Thursday, May 2, 2013 0
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Psychology has dramatically changed the world in virtually every aspect imaginable. From the way that we view criminal behavior to the role that dreams play in our waking life, psychology has revolutionized human behaviors and interactions. This kind of progress would certainly not be possible without the practitioners whose research have been driving this science forward. From scientific to metaphysical speculation, the approaches of psychologists have been dramatically diverse throughout the history of psychology.
The Father of Modern Practice
Sigmund Freud is often known by the above title. His pioneering investigation into the roles that sexuality and our relationships with our parents play in our daily decision-making process has made invaluable contributions to psychological insight. Despite the fact that he receives some abuse for his extreme emphasis on the role of sexuality, our understanding of important psychological factors such as repressions and sublimation would not be what they are today without his influence. Other members of the Freud family became influential as well. His daughter became well-known in the area of child psychology and his son was a successful portraitist.
Genius on the Fringes of his Field
Carl Jung has been extremely influential in this field regardless of the fact that his writings are left out of many of today's classrooms. He had a long relationship with Freud until they had a fallout concerning theories of roots causes for a large number of illnesses. Rather than focus on the role that sexuality could play in mental illness, Jung developed writing on an understanding of the collective unconscious and its role in inhibiting the ability of the individual to “actualize” themselves in contemporary society. Many of the techniques that formed the foundation of Alcoholics Anonymous were also based on the ideas of Jung.
Pavlov's Dogs
Ivan Pavlov laid the foundations for for what we now know to be behavioral therapy and cognitive/behaviorist analysis. By conditioning dogs to salivate at the sound of a bell through associating food with this audio stimulus, Pavlov demonstrated the strength in the relationship between stimulus, our actions, and the memory of our responses to certain stimulus in the past. Though technically not a psychologist, Pavlov's research has changed the face of modern psychology.
The Mind of a Child
Any childhood education major will be familiar with the name Jean Piaget. His investigations into childhood development have governed many of the techniques used to educate children in the classroom. From developmental skills to cognitive abilities, he helped to establish the stages of development that allow us to understand the limitations of learning for specific age groups from a technical standpoint. Erik Ericson also made considerable contributions to this area of study. However, Piaget's efforts more clearly linked these stages of development with the concept of identity that children cultivate as they develop. Piaget was also the first practicing psychologist to state that children think in ways that are vastly different from adults.
Shifting the Paradigm
Carl Rogers picked up where the Greeks and early Renaissance left off in a certain sense, shifting the focus of psychoanalysis from the Freudian model to that of a more Humanist perspective. He believed that the people being treated, rather than the prominent theory of the day, should be the focus of treatment. In other words, the patients were responsible for guiding the direction of sessions and ultimately responsible for their own healing. The client-centered counseling was revolutionary at the time. It was somewhat controversial due to the fact that it slightly undermined the stature of the practitioner. Giving power over to the patient flew in the face of the notion that the psychologist alone possessed expertise and that their methods were absolutely unquestionable.
Author Bio:
School
counselor Jen Dover enjoys sharing some of the roots of psychology as well as
some of the more modern theories with her readers. Jen is also a contributing
writer at School Psychologist Files, a terrific
resource for those interested in becoming a school psychologist.
Tuesday, April 30, 2013 0
Friday, March 22, 2013
CERN is a European scientific, nuclear discovery
facility. The goal of the facility is to discover how the universe works, what
it is made of, and how the universe begin. The facility is also called the
European Organization for Nuclear Research. Want to know where the acronym CERN
comes from? It is derived from the French version of the name, the Conseil
Européen pour la Recherche Nucléaire.
CERN primarily works with particle accelerators and detectors. The accelerators boost particles to high energy and then the beams collide with each other or targets. The detectors then observe and record the results of the collisions.
In 2013, CERN will work with some of the research and data collected throughout 2012 and the past few years.
LHC Shutting Down
The current star of CERN, the LHC (large Hadron Collider) will go offline in 2013. The facility is planning to have a series of three shutdowns for all accelerators at the facility to allow refurbishing and updating of the systems and machinery. The hope is to increase the energy output of the machine from 8 TeV to 14 TeV. The speed increase and upgrades are planned to reach new scientific discoveries and to prove or disprove existing theories in practice.
After the upgrade, the machine will use radiofrequency structures and a two-beam concept for fields that can reach up to 100 MV per meter.
Exploiting LHC discoveries
While the accelerators are shut down, the scientists and researchers will spend 2013 focused on uncovering the secrets of the findings created by LHC in the past few years. Other engineers and technicians will work on upgrading the equipment.
Current scientific studies only study the matter that we are made of, which is only 4 percent of the entire matter in the world. Other matter, dark matter and dark energy, make up the rest of the 96 percent of matter in the world. Current particle physic research is only capable of understanding 4 percent of the universe. Scientists will use 2013 to explore the data presented by the LHC and try to determine how it fits in with current particle research and how it fits into the unknown 96 percent of matter.
Improving all accelerators
The facility is also taking 2013 as a time to upgrade the other particle accelerators and detectors in the facility. It is hoped that by 2014 or 2015, all machines at the facility will perform faster, better, and use less energy.
CERN technology in the real world
Although CERN is largely a theoretical facility, much of their findings also
have practical uses. The detectors and sensors used to monitor the findings of
particle accelerators are also used in the industrial world to measure the
vibrations and energy production of manufacturing equipment. Using this
technology in vibration sensors can help prevent machinery from breaking due to
internal vibrations. When the energy of the machine reaches a too high
velocity, the vibration sensor can shut down the machine or move the energy to
a new location.
2013 will be an exciting year of discovery and study at CERN. With a reduced number of experiments, scientists can focus on discovering the meaning of past findings and help unlock a few additional mysteries of the universe.
2013 will be an exciting year of discovery and study at CERN. With a reduced number of experiments, scientists can focus on discovering the meaning of past findings and help unlock a few additional mysteries of the universe.
Author Bio:
This is a guest post by Lindsey Mcmahon. She's main
interests are Health and Technology. She suggests you have a look here if your
looking for manufacturing sensors.
Friday, March 22, 2013 0
Thursday, January 24, 2013
These engineering projects may seem primitive by
today’s standards, but they were groundbreaking efforts for their respective
times. The fact that they still exist today is a testament to their excellent
construction and adherence to solid engineering principles.
Step Pyramid of Djoser
Egypt 2630 B.C.
The first Egyptian pyramid was built to entomb the Third Dynasty Pharoah, Djoser. Constructed entirely of stone, instead of mud-brick like many buildings of the time, it began as a simple, flat-topped building. Construction continued throughout Djoser’s lengthy reign, and when he died this first pyramid was over 200 feet tall. Instead of the smooth sides of later versions, Djoser’s pyramid was constructed with six stepped levels. Its designer, Imhotep, was later deified. Although it was intended to protect Djoser’s remains for all eternity, it was looted in antiquity and most of Djoser’s body has been lost.
Water and Sanitation Systems
Indus valley 2500 B.C.
Homes in the ancient Indus Valley cities of Harappa and Mohenjo Daro were constructed with running water and bathrooms that drained into a public sewer system. Each household had a sink into which clean water flowed from a public water supply. Waste water from each house drained into a system of brick lined sewers designed to trap trash and solids. The cities even had work crews who cleaned the sewers regularly.
Indus valley 2500 B.C.
Homes in the ancient Indus Valley cities of Harappa and Mohenjo Daro were constructed with running water and bathrooms that drained into a public sewer system. Each household had a sink into which clean water flowed from a public water supply. Waste water from each house drained into a system of brick lined sewers designed to trap trash and solids. The cities even had work crews who cleaned the sewers regularly.
Aflaj Water Tunnels
Middle East Before 714 B.C.
A system of subterranean and surface canals constructed to bring irrigation water from wetter mountain areas into the dry desert has existed in what is now Oman for at least 2700 years. The systems were probably in use much earlier, since an aflaj water system in the city of Ulhu was destroyed by King Sargon II of Assyria in 714 B.C. Many ancient aflaj are still being used throughout the Middle East and North Africa to transform useless desert into arable farmland.
Drinking Water Well
Israel 700 B.C.
Beneath the old city of Jerusalem, an ancient channel was constructed to bring water from a spring outside the city walls into an underground cistern. The site has been dated to the reign of King Hezekiah, around 700 B.C. The rock-cut tunnel is over 1500 feet long, with several turns. It was constructed by two teams of diggers that started from opposite ends, and with the use of primitive surveying techniques somehow managed to meet in the middle. The tunnel provided a source of drinking water to the city that allowed it to withstand lengthy sieges.
Israel 700 B.C.
Beneath the old city of Jerusalem, an ancient channel was constructed to bring water from a spring outside the city walls into an underground cistern. The site has been dated to the reign of King Hezekiah, around 700 B.C. The rock-cut tunnel is over 1500 feet long, with several turns. It was constructed by two teams of diggers that started from opposite ends, and with the use of primitive surveying techniques somehow managed to meet in the middle. The tunnel provided a source of drinking water to the city that allowed it to withstand lengthy sieges.
The First Paved Road
Italy 312 B.C.
The first 132 mile stretch of the Via Appia was constructed by the Romans starting in 312 B.C. Paved streets had existed in ancient cities prior to the Via Appia, but the construction of a large scale paved inter-city highway had never before been attempted. The road was constructed with a crown to allow rainwater to drain away, and consisted of cemented base stones covered by a lava stone wearing surface. The Romans eventually constructed thousands of miles of paved road to connect the far reaches of their massive empire.
Author Bio:
Robert
Wallace has worked as an engineer for over 14 years and has contributed to the Best Online EngineeringDegree for others fascinated
with engineering feats and would like the education to begin a career in this
exciting field.
Thursday, January 24, 2013 0
Saturday, January 12, 2013
In 2012, scientists around the world introduced
medical breakthroughs that offer hope for a vast number of people. Laboratory
discoveries created new medications and treatment options for patients
suffering from the common but life threatening conditions of diabetes and
hypertension. Continued research also developed a minimally invasive method of
treating large, arterial aneurysms. Experimenting with genetic manipulation
equipped scientists with the ability to greatly reduce the instances of
transmittable diseases caused by insects.
Innovations in Diabetes Medications
Formulations prescribed for individuals diagnosed with diabetes typically provide insulin, stimulate insulation production and secretion by the pancreas, or make cells more receptive to insulin. Often times, despite medication, patients experience difficulty in maintaining blood sugar at recommended levels. A protein known as sodium glucose co-transporter 2, or SGLT2 prevents the kidneys from eliminating all of the excess sugar from the body. SGLT2 inhibitors interfere with this protein, which then allows complete elimination of excess sugar through the urine.
Blood Pressure Control Using Denervation
Studies suggest that up to one third of the adult population in the United States suffers from hypertension. One third of these patients do not respond to standard treatment measures that usually include an array of oral medications. A team of Polish physicians developed a treatment method that eliminates the need for medication. Known as catheter based renal denervation, the 40 minute procedure entails accessing the sympathetic nerves of the kidneys via catheterization. Once the catheter reaches the appropriate location, a physician subjects the area to low powered radio waves, which permanently interferes with nerve transmission and the release of chemicals that contribute to hypertension.
Implants for Treating Brain Aneurysms
When diagnosed with small aneurysms, surgeons often bypass the affected artery using clips or tiny metallic coils. However, bypassing larger arteries is not an option. The FDA recently approved an implantable device constructed of platinum and nickel cobalt that resembles a braided, flexible mesh tube. Surgeons deliver the device through arterial catheterization. Accessing the femoral artery merely requires making a small incision in the region between the lower abdomen and the thigh. Once inserted, the implant acts by protecting the weakened area of the vessel by redirecting blood flow. Blood remaining in the weakened area cannot circulate and clots. In time, without blood flow, the weakened area shrinks, which reduces the likelihood of rupture. Surgeons predict that the implant may prove successful in treating up to 25 percent of aneurysm cases.
Bionic Prostheses
Below the knee amputees may now achieve more natural limb movement through the use of prosthetics equipped with computerized processors and chips. The durable devices weigh a mere four pounds and enable wearers to have more active lives by mimicking natural movement. Each prosthetic contains a battery operated motor that performs the physical movement once achieved by muscles. The devices additionally have Bluetooth connectivity, which allows prosthetic wearers the option of adjusting the device settings as desired.
Neutered Mosquitoes
In an effort at reducing the many diseases carried and transmitted by mosquitoes, scientists discovered a means of altering the DNA of the insects. One method involved sterilizing male mosquitoes, which scientists then released into the Cayman Islands. Mosquitoes in this location typically cause an illness called dengue fever. Approximately three million male insects mated with existing females but were unable to produce offspring. Having a short lifespan and no generational replacements, the population decreased by 80 percent. Scientists continue developing DNA alteration research. One theory under current investigation includes the possibility of creating defects that produce death in larvae. Another project entails finding a means of preventing offspring from transmitting diseases.
Author Bio:
Ben
Bailey is a medical transcriptionist and guest author at Health InformationTechnology.
Saturday, January 12, 2013 0
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
These are exciting times to be alive, and thanks to
advances in technology and science, people are living longer and enjoying
better lives than at any other time in history. Advances in medical science,
aided by the data sharing of electronic health records (EHR) is making it
possible to treat people in new and exciting ways. Here are three new trends in
healthcare that are helping people live healthier lives.
Nano Technology (and
other small things)
There was a time when any invasive medical
procedure was risky and painful. Surgical instruments were large, and incisions
had to be even larger to allow the surgeons and medical team to see what it was
they were working on.
Today, thanks to nano technology, even the most complex procedures are much less taxing on patients. Nano technology involves shrinking things - everything. Now surgeons can see the chambers of the heart without ever cutting open the patient's chest or skin. All they do is run a catheter through a small hole in the leg, through an artery and into the heart. Cameras, stents, balloons and other life-saving medical devices and tools can be inserted into a body. And the best part is that damage to the patient due to trauma, incisions, and mistakes is significantly minimized. Shrinking technological devices are used in everything from heart to cancer to neuroscience. And it's paying off big time.
Today, thanks to nano technology, even the most complex procedures are much less taxing on patients. Nano technology involves shrinking things - everything. Now surgeons can see the chambers of the heart without ever cutting open the patient's chest or skin. All they do is run a catheter through a small hole in the leg, through an artery and into the heart. Cameras, stents, balloons and other life-saving medical devices and tools can be inserted into a body. And the best part is that damage to the patient due to trauma, incisions, and mistakes is significantly minimized. Shrinking technological devices are used in everything from heart to cancer to neuroscience. And it's paying off big time.
Digital Imaging
Sometimes a doctor can't treat what a doctor
can't see. This is especially true for complex medical conditions related to
the heart, pregnancy and cancer. Thanks to advances in digital imaging, doctors
can see more today than they ever could in the past. They can see inside the
brain and heart. They can see three-dimensional images of fetuses in the womb.
And they can see individual blood vessels. And because they can see more, they
can save more lives.
Electronic Health Records
We live in the information age. Information is
power, and in healthcare, it guides how doctors care for us. In the past,
patient information was static. It existed only in a patient's official
"medical records," which were in one place - the patient's primary
doctor's office. If another doctor needed the information, he or she had to
contact the primary care physician and request it. This could take hours, days
or even longer. And it was a problem, especially in an emergency.
Today, thanks to electronic medical records, patients' medical information is available to any medical professional who needs them and has the patients' permission to access it. Records are more comprehensive than ever, including doctor notes, images, and prescription history - all of which can be cross-referenced to ensure that a patient's doctors are all working with the same information. EHRs can, and have, proven to be life-saving advancements for thousands of patients across the country each year.
Author Bio:
PatrickWhalen is a writer who
specializes in SEO. He had written for numerous web sites. Follow him at @2patwhalen.
Tuesday, December 11, 2012 0
Friday, November 30, 2012
Science likes to have an
answer for everything; it likes to put everything away in its own special
compartment along with a rational explanation for its creation or existence.
But what happens to the things that science can’t explain? Those items from the
past that simply shouldn’t exist yet do. Despite the best attempts at science
to unravel the mystery of the existence of these artefacts, it is no further
forward than it was decades ago.
The Voynich Manuscript
This incredible illustrated manuscript has been dated back to the early part of
the 1400’s. Across the centuries it has been in the hands some of the best
brains that society had to offer, from mathematicians and scientists through to
philosophers and kings. In this century it has been examined by the top code
breakers and cipher masters from top level government institutions that have
the ability to crack just about every code ever invented, and yet nobody can
read it. Not only can they not read it there is no clue as to where it
originally came from, who wrote it or what its intended purpose was. It may be
illustrated with impressive drawings and diagrams, but no one can explain what
the illustrations are representing either. Parts of the manuscript seem to
explain aspects of biology and herbalism and astronomical information, but the
plants that have been illustrated bear no resemblance to any known plants on
earth neither does the astronomical information look familiar. So what does
science do? It tucks it neatly away inside the Yale Rare Manuscript Library,
far away from prying eyes.
The Baigong Pipes
There is a certain part of China that has been proven never to have been
subject to human habitation or any kind - there has never been any industry
placed there or any form of settlement. Yet travel to the top of the mountain
and you will see protrusions sticking up through the rocks that can only be
described as pipes. Many of these pipes travel on a straight line right into
the mountain rock, and some of them lead from the mountain across to a nearby
lake. The lake too also contains these strange pipe formations. In some cases
the diameter of these pipes reaches around 40cm, they are uniform in size and
appear to have been laid, or constructed in seemingly mathematical patterns.
This is a part of the world that is barely fit for human habitation, yet
scientists and archaeologists have dated these pipe formations to a time long
before the Iron Age. They certainly give the impression of being manufactured
and purposefully placed, but the answer remains by who? There are those who
speculate that it was part of an alien construction of some kind, others claim
it is part of a natural part of tree fossilisation, others claim that they are
an elaborate hoax aimed at confusing the masses, but really? Surely science
should be able to come up with a definitive answer to just what these pipes
are, were for or were constructed by?
Are you looking for more information on all things technology related? Visit
Tech Solvers now for the best in ITSupport in Watford.
Friday, November 30, 2012 0
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Electricity has been around for as far back as
anyone can remember, having existed within lightning even before the Earth was
established. Neanderthals recognised the power of electricity during
thunderstorms when lightening was known for, singeing, burning, even causing
death. It is possible they even took note of the fact that light objects are
attracted to amber, or the manner in which electric eels stunned their food.
Scientists have been unable to confirm exactly to what extent their knowledge
and understanding of the subject stretched. However, they have determined that
these were the beginning, serving as the earliest source of history for this
powerful element, known to man.
Static
Electricity
In the year 600 BC, a Greek named Thales made
a discovery. When he rubbed amber against an animal’s fur, it started to
attract light objects. Even though we don’t have his reports, other people from
his time period scripted writings about his work. They detail his noting how
objects like feathers and bits of fluff held to the amber after rubbing it with
wool or hide. However, at the time this was mistaken for magnetism.
Later on, it was found that other objects – diamonds for one – also had the same reaction as amber. These became known as insulators. Other matter of this nature, including gold, copper and silver, did not create a static charge as the diamonds. These were known as conductors, allowing an electric current to flow right through them instead of serving as an obstacle to the current.
Later on, it was found that other objects – diamonds for one – also had the same reaction as amber. These became known as insulators. Other matter of this nature, including gold, copper and silver, did not create a static charge as the diamonds. These were known as conductors, allowing an electric current to flow right through them instead of serving as an obstacle to the current.
Inventions and Discoveries
The
very first electric generating device was designed and built by a German man
named Otto Von Geuricke, in 1660. By making use of a wet string, he showed how
electricity could be conducted by several feet.
During the 18th century, the idea of electricity became increasingly popular. Many demonstrations were made to the public, depicting new designs for generators. A teacher called Pieter Van Musschenbroek from Holland, came up with a storage item for electricity. He called it a Leyden jar. It was the first proof of the fact that electricity can be stored and kept for later use. Even today, lots of things are based on the Leyden jar, including televisions, computers and camera flashes.
Ben Franklin is famous for his electronic experiment. Awaiting a stormy night in 1752, he flew a kite with a stiff rod attached to its top, along with a key attached to the string, up into the sky. He allowed it to drift close to a Leyden jar. Rain began to wet the string, and when lightning struck, it conducted electricity, allowing sparks to bounce from the key to the jar. Not only did he prove the existence of electricity in lightning, he also showed that pointy rods were better for attracting sparks than balls.
Where other scientists focussed on the generation and storage of electricity, a man named Charles de Coulomb was the first to measure the quantity amassed in a circuit board. Today, we still call the unit of an electrical charge after his name; coulomb to honour his discovery.
During the 18th century, the idea of electricity became increasingly popular. Many demonstrations were made to the public, depicting new designs for generators. A teacher called Pieter Van Musschenbroek from Holland, came up with a storage item for electricity. He called it a Leyden jar. It was the first proof of the fact that electricity can be stored and kept for later use. Even today, lots of things are based on the Leyden jar, including televisions, computers and camera flashes.
Ben Franklin is famous for his electronic experiment. Awaiting a stormy night in 1752, he flew a kite with a stiff rod attached to its top, along with a key attached to the string, up into the sky. He allowed it to drift close to a Leyden jar. Rain began to wet the string, and when lightning struck, it conducted electricity, allowing sparks to bounce from the key to the jar. Not only did he prove the existence of electricity in lightning, he also showed that pointy rods were better for attracting sparks than balls.
Where other scientists focussed on the generation and storage of electricity, a man named Charles de Coulomb was the first to measure the quantity amassed in a circuit board. Today, we still call the unit of an electrical charge after his name; coulomb to honour his discovery.
If you
are in need of advice concerning energycomparison in your area, you
can visit uSwitch.com in order to find a detailed and informative assessment.
They will help you find cheaper, more affordable options, to save you money on
your power usage, pertaining to your exact location.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012 0
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Due to
technological inventions in the world, there are new and sophisticated latest
medical devices being realsed on an almost daily basis.
Medical devices are an evseential part to everyday life, treating and diagnosing some of the most complicated diseases in the world and is something we have all come to reply on. FOr that reason I would like to pay homage to the top three developments in fascinating world of medical devices.
Medical devices are an evseential part to everyday life, treating and diagnosing some of the most complicated diseases in the world and is something we have all come to reply on. FOr that reason I would like to pay homage to the top three developments in fascinating world of medical devices.
Ultra sensitive colour testing spot for HIV and cancer
Researchers in the United Kingdom have succeeded in developing a machine that can test for HIV and cancerjust by looking at your eyes. As well as testing for cancer this breakthrough device can also test for the presence of viruses and other pathogens and diseases. The naked eye tester is more than ten times faster as compared to the currently used standardized methods. The naked eye tester was tested using prostate cancer and HIV viruses. With this new device, it is now cheaper and simpler to spot the early developments of the above diseases. The device will be of greater help especially in poorer developing countries. In their presentation, lead researcher Stevens Molly from the London Imperial College says their prototype was used to detect the p24 biomarker that causes HIV in a high success rate. This is a cheap technology that improves sensitivity in detecting the early development with less sophisticated instruments.
The TCT 2012 MASTER
The TCT 2012 Master is a medical deviice which can greatly improve the flow of blood in the veins. The researchers published their findings through which there was an improved blood flow restoration in the heart tissues for patient with heart conditions. The trials were presented at the cardiovascular Transcatheter Therapeutics meetings.
Heart patients with angioplasty problem use the stent micronet that will prevent and reduce embolisation by holding thrombus in a good place against the arteries that are blocked. For patients undergoing coronary treatment, they have to use micromenet stents compared to the bare metal and eluting stent resulting in higher rates of coronary blood flow in the arteries.
Angioplasty catheters
Angioplasty catheters is a new development used for treating arteries found below the knees. The use of two catheters will only target interventional treating of the narrowed atherosclerotically arteries. This PTA device come with an over the wire diameter measuring 0.35mm. It also comes with a high pressure range. It offers a wider working range and additional size. These technological devices offers' faster deflation-inflation solutions to angioplasty below the patients' knee. The other deeper PTA catheter inform of a balloon will target the lesions found in various arteries below the knee. The two catheters are designed well and will reflect the unique characteristic in the vessels that will be targeted in the body. The two will give solutions for the arteries found below the knees while targeting the lesions below or above the knee areas. The new development on the Amphirion balloons allows good 'pushability' and 'crossability' that makes it the ideal tool in the market to help in managing the critical limb problems.
Author Bio:
Lee is a part time blogger and technology nerd, writes for 'med-techinnovation.com' andloves things that go 'Beep!'
Lee is a part time blogger and technology nerd, writes for 'med-techinnovation.com' andloves things that go 'Beep!'
Thursday, November 15, 2012 0
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