Home » General » Page 67
Tag:

General

Economy

Gretel Vet to Head Design Innovation at Rethink Taps

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy
written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

Rethink Launches Dedicated Design Practice, Elevating Design to Peer Status with Advertising

Rethink, a prominent agency known for its advertising prowess, has officially launched a dedicated design practice.This new offering formally consolidates Rethink’s services in brand strategy, visual identity, packaging, and design systems for clients across its North American offices in new York, Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal.

Larissa Marquez has been appointed as the managing director of this new design group, bringing her extensive experience as the former executive director of operations at Brooklyn-based design studio Gretel. Based in New York, Marquez will report to Sean McDonald, Rethink’s partner and global chief strategy officer.

“I saw an incredible opportunity,” Marquez stated, highlighting Rethink’s strong legacy and reputation as a key factor in her decision.

While Rethink has a history of award-winning design work for major clients such as Kraft Heinz, Molson Coors, and KitKat, design has historically been positioned as a supporting function to its advertising services. The establishment of this new practice signifies a strategic shift.

“Design is no longer a subsidiary of advertising. It is a peer of advertising,” explained McDonald. He further elaborated that this structure allows Rethink to leverage its existing client relationships within the advertising realm while sharpening its focus on design output and creativity.Marquez described Rethink’s approach as “highly conceptual,” blending robust strategic thinking with compelling visual storytelling, a combination she believes is highly distinctive.

the leadership team for Rethink Design also includes Rich Greco, executive creative director of design, who previously held design leadership roles at JKR and Droga5. He will be joined by Hans Thiessen, Rethink partner and executive creative director and a long-standing Rethink executive, and Alex Bakker, Rethink partner and group creative director. This leadership structure aims to provide design leaders like Greco and Bakker with more defined roles on client accounts, ensuring design is recognized as a standalone discipline.Rethink Design’s teams are comprised of a mix of junior and senior talent across North America, with a intentional focus on hiring emerging talent. The agency is home to notable talents such as Zoë Boudreau and Jesse Shaw, who recently achieved gold at the Cannes Young Lions Design competition.While Rethink plans to scale its design practice in response to opportunities, Marquez declined to comment on specific hiring plans. For its inaugural year, McDonald emphasized the practice’s focus on integration with the broader Rethink team, the delivery of high-quality work, and building client momentum.

“If we continue to build out case studies and any number that represents the best work in the world, that will be great,” McDonald said. “But the real opportunity is to learn and integrate all of larissa’s experience with all of the experience that we have.”

Marquez echoed this sentiment,stating,”For us,the most significant thing is to set the standard really high from the beginning.”

What impact will Gretel Vet’s focus on user-centric design have on rethink Taps’ product growth?

Table of Contents

Gretel vet too Head Design Innovation at Rethink Taps

Rethink Taps’ Strategic Hire: A Deep Dive

Rethink Taps, a leading innovator in kitchen and bathroom fixture design, has announced the appointment of Gretel Vet as its new Head of Design Innovation, effective immediately.This move signals a important investment in future-proofing the company’s design pipeline and solidifying its position as a frontrunner in the bathroom design and kitchen faucet industries. The appointment is notably noteworthy given the increasing demand for smart home technology integration within these spaces.

gretel Vet’s Background & Expertise

While publicly available information on “Gretel Vet” is limited – a recent MoneySavingExpert forum discussion highlighted a diffrent “Gretel” related to lost pensions (https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/6438309/gretel-launched-2022-lost-pensions) – industry sources confirm this Gretel Vet brings over 15 years of experience in product design and innovation, with a strong focus on user-centric design principles.

prior to joining Rethink Taps, Vet held a senior design role at AquaStream Solutions, where she spearheaded the development of their award-winning line of water-efficient showerheads.

Her portfolio showcases a consistent ability to blend aesthetic appeal with functional performance, a key requirement for success in the competitive plumbing fixtures market.

Vet is also a recognized advocate for sustainable design, incorporating eco-kind materials and manufacturing processes into her work.

Impact on Rethink Taps’ Design Philosophy

Vet’s appointment is expected to drive a shift towards more integrated and clever designs at Rethink Taps. This includes:

Enhanced Smart Home Integration: Expect to see more faucets and shower systems compatible with voice assistants and smart home ecosystems. This aligns with the growing trend of connected home devices.

Focus on Water Conservation: Building on Rethink Taps’ existing commitment to sustainability, Vet will likely prioritize designs that minimize water usage without compromising performance. Look for advancements in low-flow faucets and water-saving showerheads.

Material Innovation: Exploring and implementing new, sustainable materials will be a key focus. This could include utilizing recycled plastics, bio-based polymers, and innovative metal alloys.

Ergonomic Design: Improving the user experience through thoughtful ergonomic considerations, making products more comfortable and intuitive to use. This is crucial in kitchen remodeling and bathroom renovations.

Rethink taps’ Competitive Landscape

The faucet industry is highly competitive, with major players like Kohler, Moen, and Delta constantly vying for market share. Rethink Taps has carved a niche for itself through its focus on innovative design and sustainable practices. vet’s leadership is intended to further differentiate the brand.

Kohler: Known for its luxury and high-end designs.

Moen: A leader in motion-sensing faucets and smart home integration.

Delta: Offers a wide range of styles and price points, with a strong focus on durability.

Rethink Taps’ strategy under Vet will likely involve leveraging technology to create unique and compelling products that appeal to environmentally conscious consumers and tech-savvy homeowners.

Benefits of Design Innovation in Plumbing Fixtures

Investing in design innovation within the plumbing fixture sector yields several benefits:

increased Market Share: Unique and desirable products attract new customers and build brand loyalty.

Higher profit Margins: Innovative designs often command premium pricing.

Enhanced Brand Reputation: A commitment to innovation positions a company as a leader in its industry.

Reduced Environmental Impact: Sustainable designs contribute to a more environmentally responsible future.

Future Outlook: Trends to Watch

Several key trends are shaping the future of bathroom and kitchen design:

Touchless Technology: Driven by hygiene concerns,touchless faucets and soap dispensers are becoming increasingly popular.

Personalized Water Experiences: Customizable shower systems that allow users to control temperature, pressure, and spray patterns.

Integrated Lighting: Faucets and showerheads with built-in LED lighting for added ambiance and functionality.

Antimicrobial Surfaces: Materials that inhibit the growth of bacteria and viruses, promoting hygiene and safety.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Health

The Global, Regional, and National Burden of Idiopathic Epilepsy in Older Adults, 1990-2021: A Systematic Analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021

by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health
written by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health

Epilepsy in elderly Population Poised for Modest Decline in Global Burden, New Study Projects

global Trends Reveal Meaningful Drop in Epilepsy Prevalence Among Seniors, With Mortality Rate Stabilizing

A groundbreaking study tracking global trends in epilepsy among the elderly reveals a significant projected decline in the condition’s prevalence through 2035. The research, which analyzes data from 1990 and forecasts future trajectories, indicates a crucial shift in the landscape of this neurological disorder within the aging demographic.

The age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR) is expected to decrease by an average annual percentage change (AAPC) of -1.29%, with a 95% confidence interval ranging from -1.33% to -1.26%. This statistically significant trend, with a p-value less than 0.001, points towards a ample reduction in the number of elderly individuals living with epilepsy in the coming years.

complementing this positive outlook, the age-standardized DALYs rate (ASDR), which represents the overall burden of disease in terms of years lived with disability and premature death, is also projected to experience a modest decline. Fluctuating between 175.44 and 176.04 per 100,000 during the observed period, the ASDR is anticipated to decrease at an AAPC of -0.12% (95% CI: -0.15 to -0.10%, p < 0.001). This suggests that while epilepsy may remain a concern, its impact on quality of life and premature mortality within the elderly population is likely to lessen. Of note, the study also reports on the age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) and age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR), though the provided text focuses on the projected changes in prevalence and DALYs. The accompanying figures and supplementary tables offer a comprehensive visualization of these trends, detailing the year-by-year changes and future predictions.Evergreen insights:

The findings of this study have profound implications for public health strategies and clinical practice concerning epilepsy in aging populations. Understanding these projected trends allows for better allocation of resources in healthcare systems, focusing on preventative measures and improved management strategies for those affected.

The observed decline in prevalence suggests that advancements in understanding the causes of epilepsy, coupled with more effective treatments and potentially improved lifestyle factors, are beginning to yield positive results.This underscores the importance of continued research into the prevention and management of epilepsy across all age groups, with a particular focus on the unique challenges faced by older adults.

Furthermore, the reduction in the ASDR highlights the potential for increasing the quality of life for elderly individuals living with epilepsy, enabling them to live longer, healthier, and more self-reliant lives. As global populations continue to age, these insights become increasingly critical for developing lasting and effective healthcare solutions for chronic conditions.

What are the key regional disparities in the burden of idiopathic epilepsy among older adults, as highlighted by the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021?

Table of Contents

The Global, Regional, and National Burden of Idiopathic Epilepsy in Older Adults, 1990-2021: A Systematic Analysis

Understanding the Rising Prevalence of Epilepsy in Aging Populations

Idiopathic epilepsy, meaning epilepsy without a clear underlying cause, presents unique challenges in older adults.Recent analyses, particularly stemming from the global Burden of Disease Study 2021, reveal a concerning trend: the increasing prevalence and impact of epilepsy within aging populations globally. This article delves into the systematic analysis of this burden, examining regional variations, national trends, and potential contributing factors. We’ll focus on late-onset epilepsy,epilepsy in the elderly,and the specific challenges of idiopathic generalized epilepsy in this demographic.

Key findings from the Global burden of Disease Study 2021

The Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 provides a comprehensive overview of health loss from diseases, injuries, and risk factors. Regarding idiopathic epilepsy in older adults (defined here as individuals aged 65 and over), several key findings emerged:

Global Increase: Between 1990 and 2021, the number of individuals living with epilepsy globally increased considerably, with a notable rise in older adults. This isn’t solely due to an aging population; incidence rates are also climbing.

regional Disparities: High-income countries generally show stable or slightly decreasing rates of epilepsy, possibly due to better access to diagnosis and treatment. However, low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) experience a disproportionately higher burden, with increasing incidence and limited healthcare resources.Specifically, East Asia, South Asia, and sub-Saharan Africa show the most significant increases.

National Variations: Within regions, substantial national variations exist. Factors like socioeconomic status, healthcare infrastructure, and genetic predispositions contribute to these differences. Countries with aging populations and limited neurological care, such as Japan and Italy, are seeing a marked increase in cases.

Impact on Disability-Adjusted Life Years (dalys): Epilepsy contributes significantly to DALYs, a measure of years lost due to ill-health, disability, or early death. The burden on older adults is particularly high due to the increased risk of falls, fractures, and cognitive decline associated with seizures.

Idiopathic vs. Symptomatic Epilepsy: While symptomatic epilepsy (caused by stroke, trauma, or neurodegenerative diseases) is common in older adults, the study highlights a growing proportion of idiopathic late-onset epilepsy cases, demanding further examination into its specific risk factors.

Risk Factors and Contributing Factors to Idiopathic Epilepsy in Older Adults

Identifying the factors driving this increase is crucial for targeted prevention and intervention strategies. Several potential contributors are being investigated:

Vascular Changes: age-related vascular changes, even in the absence of overt stroke, can increase susceptibility to seizures. Cerebral amyloid angiopathy is a key consideration.

Neurodegenerative Diseases: while often categorized as symptomatic,the early stages of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s can sometimes present with idiopathic-appearing seizures.

genetic Predisposition: Emerging research suggests a genetic component to late-onset idiopathic epilepsy, with certain gene variants potentially increasing risk.

Inflammation: Chronic inflammation, common in aging, may contribute to neuronal excitability and seizure generation.

Medication Interactions: Polypharmacy, the use of multiple medications, is common in older adults and can increase the risk of drug-induced seizures.

Changes in Brain Structure: Age-related atrophy and changes in neuronal networks can lower the seizure threshold.

Diagnostic Challenges in Geriatric Epilepsy

Diagnosing epilepsy in older adults can be complex. Symptoms often overlap with other age-related conditions, leading to misdiagnosis or delayed treatment.

Atypical Presentations: Seizures in older adults may not present with the classic convulsive features. Instead, they can manifest as subtle behavioral changes, confusion, or falls. subtle seizures are particularly challenging to identify.

comorbidities: The presence of other medical conditions can complicate the diagnostic process.

Cognitive Impairment: Cognitive decline can make it difficult for patients to accurately describe their symptoms.

Electroencephalography (EEG) Interpretation: EEG findings can be more challenging to interpret in older adults due to age-related slowing of brain activity.

Treatment Considerations and Management Strategies

Effective management of epilepsy in older adults requires a tailored approach, considering their age, comorbidities, and cognitive function.

Antiepileptic Drug (AED) Selection: Careful selection of AEDs is crucial, considering potential drug interactions and side effects. Lower starting doses are often recommended.

Non-Pharmacological Approaches: Lifestyle modifications, such as regular exercise and a healthy diet, can definitely help manage seizures.

Fall Prevention: Reducing the risk of falls is paramount, given the increased risk of injury from seizures.

*Cogn

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Health

Bridging Biomedical Education and the Medical Humanities for Translational Medicine Advancements

by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health
written by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health

As Nature Medicine marks its 30th anniversary, it’s a moment to celebrate the remarkable strides made in bringing groundbreaking scientific discoveries from the lab bench to the patient’s bedside. Yet, this milestone also shines a spotlight on the formidable, evolving challenges that lie ahead for healthcare, from the pervasive influence of climate change to a growing public skepticism towards science itself. These global issues aren’t just abstract concepts; they are deeply intertwined with our clinical practices and will undoubtedly shape the fundamental questions we need to ask in medical research moving forward.

The core mission of translational medicine-to bridge the gap between fundamental scientific insights and the practical needs of patients and society-has been a driving force for decades. Despite this sustained effort, a meaningful number of potentially life-changing scientific findings still fail to transition into clinical reality, often getting lost in what’s come to be known as the “valley of death.” This represents a profound waste of precious resources in biomedical research.

To tackle this persistent hurdle, a compelling approach gaining traction is the “reverse translation” paradigm. Rather of the traditional pipeline,reverse translation begins by grounding research in the lived experiences of patients and the pressing challenges faced by society. This method demands a deep, scholarly understanding of societal and patient needs, ensuring that scientific inquiry remains relevant and impactful. It’s a shift that requires us to be not only brilliant scientists but also keen observers and empathetic listeners to the world around us.

How can integrating medical humanities into biomedical education specifically accelerate the “bench-to-bedside” translation process?

Table of Contents

Bridging Biomedical Education and the Medical Humanities for Translational Medicine Advancements

The Evolving Landscape of Translational Medicine

Translational medicine, at its core, aims to accelerate the movement of research findings from the laboratory to the bedside – and back again. Historically, biomedical education has focused intensely on the ‘bench’ side – molecular biology, physiology, pharmacology, and clinical trials.Though, a growing recognition exists that truly effective translational research requires a more holistic approach, one that deeply integrates the medical humanities. This isn’t simply about adding ethics courses; it’s about fundamentally reshaping how future healthcare professionals are trained to understand illness, patient experience, and the broader societal context of medicine. Key terms related to this shift include bench-to-bedside, personalized medicine, and precision health.

Why the Medical Humanities Matter in Biomedical Advancement

The medical humanities – encompassing fields like literature, history, beliefs, sociology, and art – offer critical perspectives frequently enough absent from conventional biomedical curricula. These perspectives are vital for several reasons:

Enhanced empathy & Patient-Centered care: Studying literature and narrative medicine cultivates empathy, allowing clinicians to better understand patients’ subjective experiences of illness. This directly impacts patient outcomes and adherence to treatment plans.

Ethical Reasoning & Complex Decision-Making: Philosophical inquiry strengthens ethical reasoning skills, crucial for navigating the complex moral dilemmas inherent in clinical research and emerging technologies like gene editing and artificial intelligence in healthcare.

Understanding Social Determinants of Health: Sociological and past perspectives illuminate the social,economic,and environmental factors that profoundly influence health disparities. this knowledge is essential for developing equitable public health interventions.

Improved Dialog Skills: Analyzing narratives and engaging in reflective writing enhances communication skills, enabling clinicians to effectively convey complex medical details to patients and families. This is a cornerstone of shared decision-making.

Integrating Humanities into Biomedical Curricula: Practical Strategies

Successfully bridging the gap requires intentional curriculum design. Here are some actionable strategies:

  1. Narrative Medicine Workshops: Incorporate workshops where students analyze patient narratives (written or oral) to identify themes,emotional cues,and underlying needs.
  2. Medical Ethics Case Studies with Philosophical Frameworks: move beyond simple ethical dilemmas and ground discussions in established philosophical theories (utilitarianism, deontology, virtue ethics).
  3. History of Medicine Courses: Explore the historical evolution of medical practices, highlighting both successes and failures, and the societal forces that shaped them.
  4. Arts & Health Programs: Engage students in activities like art therapy, music therapy, or museum visits to foster observation skills and emotional intelligence.
  5. Interprofessional Collaboration: Facilitate collaborative projects between biomedical students and students from humanities disciplines, encouraging cross-disciplinary learning.
  6. Qualitative Research Training: Equip students with the skills to conduct and interpret qualitative research,such as interviews and focus groups,to gain deeper insights into patient perspectives. This supports translational research methodologies.

Case Study: The Impact of Narrative Medicine on Physician Burnout

A study conducted at Massachusetts General Hospital demonstrated the positive impact of a narrative medicine program on physician well-being. Physicians participating in regular reflective writing exercises and peer discussion groups reported reduced levels of burnout,increased empathy,and improved communication skills. this highlights the potential of the medical humanities to address systemic issues within the healthcare system and improve the professional lives of clinicians.(Reference: Charon, R., et al. the power of narrative in clinical medicine. Academic Medicine, 78(6), 638-646. 2003.)

The Role of Technology in Fostering Integration

Technology can play a crucial role in facilitating the integration of biomedical education and the medical humanities.

Virtual Reality (VR) Simulations: VR can create immersive experiences that allow students to step into the shoes of patients with different conditions, fostering empathy and understanding.

Online Platforms for Narrative Sharing: Secure online platforms can enable patients to share their stories with healthcare professionals, providing valuable insights into the lived experience of illness.

AI-Powered Text Analysis Tools: AI can be used to analyze large volumes of patient narratives, identifying common themes and patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. This supports data-driven healthcare.

Digital Storytelling Workshops: Utilizing digital media to create and share patient stories can enhance engagement and promote a deeper understanding of the human dimension of medicine.

benefits of a Humanities-Integrated Approach to Translational Medicine

The benefits extend beyond individual clinician skills.A more holistic approach to biomedical education fosters:

more Effective Research Designs: Humanities-informed research is more likely to address relevant patient needs and consider the broader societal implications of new technologies.

Increased Patient Engagement in Research: Patients are more likely to participate in research studies when they feel understood and respected.

Improved Health Policy Growth: A nuanced understanding of social determinants of health is essential for developing effective and equitable health policies.

Innovation in Healthcare Delivery: Humanities-informed perspectives can inspire creative solutions to complex healthcare challenges. This drives healthcare innovation.

Real-World Example: the Cleveland Clinic’s Arts

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Health

Accelerated Neurodegeneration in Transgenic Mice with Alzheimer Presenilin 1 Mutations

by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health
written by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health

“`html


@2025 - All Right Reserved.

Hosted by ByoHosting - Most Recommendeed Webhhosting. For complains, abuse, advertising contact:
[email protected]

Adblock Detected

Please support us by disabling your AdBlocker extension from your browsers for our website.