Researchers at Israel’s Bar-Ilan University are developing gold nano-rods to help identify and treat blocked arteries, and scientists at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem have destroyed the HIV virus using peptides containing multiple copies of the virus’ DNA.
By: Michael Ordman
ISRAEL’S MEDICAL ACHIEVEMENTS
Gold lights up blocked arteries
Researchers at Israel’s Bar-Ilan University are developing gold nano-rods to help identify and treat blocked arteries. The tiny gold particles are absorbed by macrophages (bacteria-viruses) in the blood to illuminate problem areas. Combining them with good cholesterol can then clear the blockages.
http://www.timesofisrael.com/israeli-study-uses-gold-particles-to-search-and-destroy-artery-blockages/
Breakthrough treatment for HIV
Scientists at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem have destroyed the HIV virus using peptides containing multiple copies of the virus’ DNA. Combined with existing HIV medications the peptides activate the cell’s self-destruction mechanisms. After two weeks there was no sign of the virus. Human trials will commence in a few months. http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4750903,00.html
A high-definition image of your eye
Scientists at Israel’s Technion Institute have developed innovative imaging technology to capture fine, high-quality optical images of the retina of the eye (including blood vessels and neurons) non-invasively. It could transform eye research.
MDA’s “Life Guardians” go live
Magen David Adom has launched its new “Life Guardians” program. It relies on Israelis nationwide to respond to an emergency in their area until Emergency Medical Support units arrive. MDA states that anyone with first aid training can become a part of the program.
http://www.theyeshivaworld.com/news/headlines-breaking-stories/381179/mdas-nationwide-volunteer-life-guardians-program-goes-live.html
Predicting cancer & obesity using artificial light
Haifa University’s Nataliya Rybnikova has been granted NIS 500,000 ($126,000) to help her research into satellite images of artificial light at night and its link to high levels of cancer and obesity. Night shifts may endanger health, and LEDs can damage melatonin production.
http://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/science/.premium-1.700425
How well do you sleep?
Israel’s EarlySense has “got into bed” with US-based iFit to develop the first “sleepable”- an Internet of Things connected sleep sensor that will be integrated with iFit mattresses and mattress covers. By monitoring sleep quality, users can improve sleep and overall wellness.
http://www.timesofisrael.com/israeli-sleepables-to-boost-performance-of-ifits-fitness-tech/
http://www.earlysense.com/news-and-events/news/jan-6-2016/
More donors and transplants
2015 saw a 60% increase in organ donations agreed by Israeli families of the deceased. It led to a 28% increase in the number of Israeli organ transplants – to 433 in 2015. In addition, 668 corneas were donated and 42 burns patients received donated skin. There was a 5% increase (to 850,000) in registered donor cards.
Free screening devices for Kenya
Israel’s MobileODT has donated 20 of its Enhanced Visual Assessment (EVA) cervical cancer screening devices to healthcare providers in Kenya. On World Cancer Day (4th Feb), nurses trained by the NGO Rotary International aim to screen over 700 Kenyan women using the devices.
http://www.israel21c.org/mobile-cancer-screening-device-could-save-womens-lives/
Overseas paramedics recognized
The Israeli Knesset has approved an amendment to a law on health professions. Professional paramedics, who were certified in a country where their job does not require an academic degree, can convert their qualifications in Israel without having to go back to school.
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