Microbiology
Rapid POC Test Developed to Detect Influenza
Addressing the perennial threat of a major flu pandemic, researchers have developed fast, easy-to-use point-of-care (POC) diagnostic test for influenza that could head off rapid spread of the virus during an outbreak. Preliminary clinical testing of the prototype device were encouraging. More...22 May 2017
Device Simplifies Identification of Leishmania Hosts
Researchers have developed a novel device for obtaining essentially painless, minimally invasive microbiopsies (MBs) that mimic sand fly bites and meals, providing a convenient sampling method for identifying asymptomatic, potentially infectious carriers of Leishmania donovani in endemic areas. More...22 May 2017
Standard Test May Miss UTI in Some Women
Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common infections that people experience. It arises when bacteria, most likely from the skin or rectum, enter the urethra and travel up to the bladder. UTIs affect several parts of the urinary tract, which includes the urethra, bladder, ureters, and kidneys. However, the most common type of UTI is a bladder infection, also known as cystitis. More...18 May 2017
Rapid Assay Monitors Influenza Virus Susceptibility
Early detection of drug-resistant influenza viruses is needed for timely modification of policies and recommendations on the use of antivirals. In many countries, neuraminidase (NA) inhibitor(s) are the medications of choice for treatment and prophylaxis of influenza infections, with oseltamivir being most commonly prescribed. More...17 May 2017
Manually Powered Device Separates Blood for Diagnosis
Inspired by a whirligig toy, researchers have used its mechanical principles to develop an ultra-low-cost, hand-powered blood centrifuge out of paper, no electricity required. The tool could improve diagnosis of diseases like malaria, African sleeping sickness, and tuberculosis in resource-poor, off-the-grid regions where these diseases are prevalent. More...16 May 2017
Research Makes Flu Virus Visible to Naked Eye
Researchers have discovered a way to make influenza visible to the naked eye by engineering fluorescent dye molecules to target a specific enzyme of the virus. The team was able to develop a prototype test kit that detects influenza in samples using a handheld lamp or blue laser pointer, and that even helps determine if a given antiviral therapy will likely be effective. More...16 May 2017
In Other News
Immune Response Differentiates Malaria from Other Infections
Drug-Resistant Bacteria Can Raise Sepsis Risk
POC Test Advances Hepatitis C Diagnosis
Blood Test Predicts Vaccine Immunogenicity
Novel Assay Rapidly RSV in Children
Bordetella Direct Test Receives FDA Clearance
Bacterial Pathogens Panel Receives CE Marking
Automated Test Screens for HTLV-I/II Viruses
Accuracy Evaluated for Schistosomiasis Tests
Methods Assessed for Detecting Asymptomatic Malaria
Newborn Screening for CMV Remains Controversial
Multiplex Molecular Assays for Respiratory Viruses Evaluated
Mass Spectrometry Identifies Bacteria Resistant to Colistin
LAMP-based Assay Launched for Detection of Malaria
Link Discovered Between Strep Infections and Blood Type
Sensitive NA Detection Aids Pathogen Diagnoses
New Immunoassay Evaluated for Toxoplasmosis
Bacterial Panel Detects Stool Pathogens from Swabs
Routine Donor Screening Revealed Acute Usutu Virus
Novel Flu Test Developed to Speed Up Treatment
Rapid Tests Conclusively Diagnose Chagas Disease
Automated Blood Culture System Receives FDA Clearance
Biosensor Chips Identify Antibiotic Treatment Faster
The LabMedica Microbiology channel provides the latest news in the fields of epidemiology, bacteriology, virology, and parasitology, all viewed from the unique perspective of Laboratory Medicine.