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Unlocking the secrets of Ebola

Scientists have identified two biomarkers that accurately predict patient survival in Ebola cases. The study analyzed blood samples from survivors and fatal cases, revealing distinct metabolic responses and immune-related molecules. These findings could improve treatment allocation and patient outcomes.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateNov 16, 2017

Taking blood using 'push-pull' method gets accurate results with fewer pokes

A new study by University of Pennsylvania researchers has found that the 'push-pull' blood sampling technique is as accurate as venipuncture, but requires no presample to be discarded and minimizes contamination risk. The method uses a catheter's dead space to collect samples, reducing needle pricks and pain for patients.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·DateNov 9, 2017

Better, cheaper healthcare with dry blood samples

Researchers at Uppsala University have developed a new method to measure proteins in dry blood samples, allowing for easier and cheaper healthcare. The study found that this method has great potential to save resources and enable early diagnostics, with minimal changes to protein levels over time.

SourceUppsala University·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·DateMay 22, 2017

A breath of fresh air for severe asthma research

A study by Brigham and Women's Hospital reveals that natural killer cells in patients with severe asthma are disabled from resolving inflammation, leading to ineffective corticosteroid treatment. Researchers also identified lipoxins as a potential therapeutic approach, as they preserve NK cell pro-resolving functions.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalScience Immunology·DateMar 10, 2017

E-cigarettes effectively deliver nicotine

E-cigarettes are effective at delivering nicotine, particularly for experienced users. The study found that newer generation e-cigarettes outperform first-generation devices in terms of nicotine delivery. However, the efficacy of e-cigarettes also depends on individual behavior and vaping habits.

SourceR&D at British American Tobacco·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Behavior·DateDec 2, 2016

Holographic imaging and deep learning diagnose malaria

A new technique using computer 'deep learning' and light-based, holographic scans can spot malaria-infected cells from simple blood samples, offering fast and reliable diagnosis in resource-limited areas. The method was tested on hundreds of cells and accurately identified malaria 97 to 100 percent of the time.

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 6, 2016

Biobank storage time as important as age

A new study from Uppsala University found that biobank storage time is a crucial factor in medical research, rivalling the importance of blood donor age. The researchers analyzed 380 samples from 106 women, isolating the impact of storage time to show its significant influence on test results.

SourceUppsala University·JournalEBioMedicine·DateSep 5, 2016

Test holds potential to diagnose myriad conditions with drop of blood

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a unique method to detect antibodies in the blood, enabling simple diagnostic tests for diseases without known microbial causes. This approach successfully led to the detection of HIV antibodies and holds potential for diagnosing various conditions with just a single drop of bl...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Immunological Methods·DateJun 9, 2016

Cellphone-sized device quickly detects the Ebola virus

A handheld instrument has been developed to detect the Ebola virus quickly and efficiently, allowing for faster treatment and real-time monitoring of viral loads. The device can process four samples simultaneously and produces results in under 37 minutes, significantly reducing the testing time required by conventional methods.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateApr 27, 2016