BACKGROUND Conflicting evidence exists about how patients would like their doctors to dress. This is complicated by new evidence showing elements of common physician attire (white coat or ties) can be contaminated with pathogens. METHODS We conducted a survey on a convenience sample of adult patients in three academic primary care offices in South Carolina and Ohio during the summer of 2010. ...

Chondrocytes produce large pericellular coats in vitro that can be visualized by the exclusion of particles,e.g., fixed erythrocytes, and that are removed by treatment with Streptomyces hyaluronidase, which is specific for hyaluronate. In this study, we examined the kinetics of formation of these coats and the relationship of hyaluronate and proteoglycan to coat structure. Chondrocytes were iso...

OBJECTIVE The aim of the present study was to determine the importance of physician attire in inspiring confidence in patients, patient preferences and factors influencing the impression made by the clothing worn by doctors. METHODS Self-administered questionnaires were distributed and completed in five pharmacies across Japan (April-October 2012) to patients or their carers (aged ≥20 years)....