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What's happening with your donated specimen?

A Michigan State University study found that most people are willing to donate bodily samples for medical research, but this willingness drops when specific projects are mentioned. The study suggests that biobanks should rethink their consent processes and be more transparent about the research they support.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJAMA·DateJan 28, 2015

Simple test can indicate cervical cancer

A new plasma thermogram test has been developed by researchers at the University of Louisville, indicating the presence or absence of cervical cancer. The test measures unique protein signatures in blood plasma, providing a non-invasive alternative to traditional Pap smear screening.

SourceUniversity of Louisville·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 8, 2014

Researchers determine digestibility of blood products as feed in weanling pigs

Researchers at the University of Illinois have determined the amino acid digestibility of five blood products produced in the US to provide swine producers with guidance for formulating diets. The study found that spray-dried blood products were good sources of amino acids, while flash-dried products had lower digestibility.

Blood is thicker than water -- and blood plasma is, too

Researchers at Saarland University and the University of Pennsylvania have discovered that blood plasma is a non-Newtonian fluid that forms threads and exhibits viscoelastic properties, influencing blood flow into narrow capillaries. This study may improve computer simulations of vascular pathological processes.

SourceSaarland University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 18, 2013

Inappropriate uses of frozen plasma

A recent commentary in the Canadian Medical Association Journal highlights inappropriate uses of frozen plasma, with 45% to 48% of audited transfusions found to be misuse. Experts recommend introducing measures to promote alternative use and screen orders against guidelines to improve practice.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMar 15, 2010

Too much selenium can increase your cholesterol

A new study from the University of Warwick found that high levels of selenium are associated with increased cholesterol levels. The research team discovered a 10% increase in non-HDL cholesterol levels and an 8% total cholesterol level increase, which can lead to heart disease. The study highlights the importance of moderate selenium i...

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateNov 12, 2009

Australia-US FTA threatens blood supply

The Australia-US Free Trade Agreement could lead to a decline in Australia's blood safety standards if plasma fractionation is opened up to overseas tender. The move could also affect products in other countries, including New Zealand, which may be forced into 'piggy-backing' with new arrangements.

SourceResearch Australia·JournalThe Medical Journal of Australia·DateJul 14, 2006