International journal of medical informatics
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A computerised record hash coding and linkage procedure is proposed to allow the chaining of medical information within the framework of epidemiological follow-up. Before their extraction, files are rendered anonymous using a one-way hash coding based on the standard hash algorithm (SHA) function, in order to respect the legislation on data privacy and security. ⋯ Once rendered anonymous, the linkage of patient information can be accomplished by means of a statistical model, taking into account several identification variables. Quality assessment of this anonymous record linkage procedure shows a specificity of 100% and a sensitivity of 95%.
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During the past 2-3 decades, development work on Medical Devices focused on improving their functionality (device control, signal analysis, pattern recognition and classification). At present, the dominant user requirement is information integration. This requires interconnectivity and interoperability of devices and device systems. ⋯ This common base of problem understanding makes consensus finding less difficult. Continuous cooperation between the IEEE P1073 group and the CEN/TC251 WG5 project team also ensures early harmonization of the related standards. Finally, early implementation projects in Europe and the US allow verification and modifications based on feed-back from practical experience.
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SUTIL is an intelligent monitoring system for intensive and exhaustive follow up of patients in coronary care units. This system processes electrocardiographic and hemodynamic signals in real time, with the main objective of detecting ischemic episodes. ⋯ In addition to basic tasks, those at higher levels will also be presented. Some of these latter tasks attempt to mimic, to some extent, the way in which the human expert operates.