Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade
’New findings in the field of medicine and research’
’On the second day of our stay in Germany, we visited Goethe University and University Clinic where we were hosted by Prof. Dr. Akker. Prof. Dr. Akker talked about polypharmacy. It is a challenge we have to face regardless of a country and its (under)development. We have gained knowledge about the most common diseases in the elderly, their frequency, and present comorbidities in an interesting way, from an effective presentation with relevant data on new researches, and concisely. I have learned that although there are different combinations of diseases in different persons, there are still good clinical practice guidelines in place that provide guidance on the best approach to such patients, who also use multiple medications. I think that such guidelines are necessary in our country, given the aging population and the use of multiple medications. The best guidelines would certainly increase the quality of life of patients. The Goethe Institute is located in a slightly secluded area, surrounded by greenery in a very pleasant, quiet and peaceful environment. It comprises a complex of 10 identical buildings. We are entering a building where molecular biology researches are conducted. Silence again. We arrive at the hall where, Prof. Dr. Amparo, winner of the Paul Ehrlich Prize for Young Researchers, appears exactly on time. Her lecture really captures our attention, telling us about her researches and results in the development of blood vessels and nerves. Although the research is complex, she is trying to make it understandable to us, and explain it as simply as possible. Prof. Dr. Amparo has an amazing life story, both professionally and privately. In addition to being the winner of this prestigious prize, she is also a full-time professor at Goethe University, and a mother of two girls. Prof. Amparo took us on a tour of the laboratories where she and her team conduct researches. Listening to her while she is talking about expensive equipment, her ways and doing the best she can to get some appliances, her will and perseverance to be a great researcher, professor, mentor become prominent again. I have never seen such equipped laboratories, though I have never even had an opportunity to visit a research centre such as the Goethe Institute. What was also fascinating to me was the decision of Prof. Amparo that her team members, in addition to their work place in the laboratory, also have their own offices where they can go to when distracted by noise, when they are doing something more complicated, or simply want to rest. The care itself of providing better person-tailored working conditions, not only to young researchers but also to other employees, being alert to their needs and respecting their diversity, makes their work easier and enhances quality at the same time, which brings positive results in any business’.