Artificial sharp-wave-ripples to support memory and counter neurodegeneration.

Information processed in our sensory neocortical areas is transported to the hippocampus during memory encoding, and between hippocampus and neocortex during memory consolidation, and retrieval. Short bursts of high-frequency oscillations, so called sharp-wave-ripples, have been proposed as a potential mechanism for this information transfer: They can synchronize neural activity to support the formation of local neural networks to store information, and between distant cortical sites to act as a bridge to transfer information between sensory cortical areas and hippocampus. In neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's Disease, different neuropathological processes impair normal neural functioning and neural synchronization as well as sharp-wave-ripples, which impairs consolidation and retrieval of information, and compromises memory. Here, we formulate a new hypothesis, that artificially inducing sharp-wave-ripples with noninvasive high-frequency visual stimulation could potentially support memory functioning, as well as target the neuropathological processes underlying neurodegenerative diseases. We also outline key challenges for empirical tests of the hypothesis.

[Digital Nephrology]. / Digitale Nephrologie.

Clinical Nephrology faces considerable structural challenges. Digitization can be a critical catalyst to better address the needs of patients and their healthcare providers with new system solutions. Improved communication is the key driver. Through health-related mobile applications, big data and machine learning, as well as natural language processing, treatment processes can be rethought and redesigned.

[Health 4.0 - how are we doing tomorrow?] / Gesundheit 4.0 ­ Wie gehts uns denn morgen?

Digitization in healthcare is progressing steadily. While currently processes are being optimized and processes are being facilitated, the breakthrough of digital medicine is still forthcoming. Digital medicine includes applications that focus on the patient and give them the promise of better care. Many digital health applications are raising attention in traditional healthcare, as they are increasingly showing evidence.This report discusses the question of the impact of digital health applications on healthcare in the near future by evaluating the effect of software used to improve diagnosis, therapy and the communication between patients and healthcare professionals.Three key technologies have been identified that have the potential to create applications that will have a major impact on healthcare. Exemplary applications in the fields of natural language processing, deep learning and virtual reality are presented and discussed, including how the widespread use of these products can change healthcare from the perspective of the patients.The prognosis for healthcare in a digital future is obviously: we are getting better. This is due to better quality in the field of diagnosis, enabling balance in the communication between patients and healthcare professionals, and low-threshold access to healthcare, regardless of location and time.