WUTH publication: Developments in Transduction, Connectivity and AI/Machine Learning for Point-of-Care Testing

Citation: Sensors. 2019, 19(8),  pii: E1917
Author: O'Sullivan S, Ali Z, Jiang X, Abdolvand R, Ünlü MS, Silva HPD, Baca JT, Kim B, Scott S, Sajid MI, Moradian S, Mansoorzare H, Holzinger A
Abstract: We review some emerging trends in transduction, connectivity and data analytics for Point-of-Care Testing (POCT) of infectious and non-communicable diseases. The patient need for POCT is described along with developments in portable diagnostics, specifically in respect of Lab-on-chip and microfluidic systems. We describe some novel electrochemical and photonic systems and the use of mobile phones in terms of hardware components and device connectivity for POCT. Developments in data analytics that are applicable for POCT are described with an overview of data structures and recent AI/Machine learning trends. The most important methodologies of machine learning, including deep learning methods, are summarised. The potential value of trends within POCT systems for clinical diagnostics within Lower Middle Income Countries (LMICs) and the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) are highlighted.
KEYWORDS: POCT; artificial intelligence; deep learning; microfluidics; mobile phone; photonics

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Release your potential this Spring!

Is writing a joy? Do you find it hard to get going? Do you find yourself out of balance and pulled in different directions? Would you benefit from more confidence in your research experience? Due to the success of the previous workshop earlier this year, NHS R&D North West are offering another opportunity to enhance your research experience through coaching with Will Medd. Write here, right now: coaching writing workshop - 23rd April 2019, 9.30am-5pm, Federation House, Manchester Our coaching approach is tailored to the full experience of being a researcher, improving your professional and personal impact. This workshop is a full day event from 9.30am - 5pm, held at Federation House in Manchester City Centre. It is a £45 + VAT to attend for NHS Staff (50% is funded by Health Education England). For non-NHS staff, it is £90 + vat to attend. A purchase order number will be required upon booking to secure your place

Writing is a huge part of research and yet, as a skill, the focus of training is often on how to produce scientific papers, whilst retreats tend to focus on blocking out the time and space to write.  That’s great and important. What about the experience of writing itself?  How can researchers learn to be productive, to keep writing and even enjoy the process? While working on a current piece of writing (a paper, proposal etc) it aims to explore what happens if you unlock the possibility of enjoying writing! This workshop explores confidence, fears, values, goals and habits while experimenting with different writing moods. The day will include identifying new writing habits that you can start putting into practice! You'll come away with: Dedicated writing time on your work. Greater awareness of what gets in the way of your writing and how to overcome that. Learning from others about their writing experiences and strategies. A commitment to new writing habits. Click here to read more  Book your place here

WUTH publication: Localised bullous pemphigoid overlying knee arthroplasty: a diagnostic challenge

Citation: BMJ Case Reports. 2019, 12(4), e227440
Author: Truss A, Papalexandris S, Gardner S, Harvey R
Abstract: An elderly Caucasian woman developed bullous pemphigoid (BP) overlying the site of total knee arthroplasty for osteoarthritis 2 days after surgery. The clinical findings were consistent with blistering due to soft tissue swelling, bullous impetigo or allergic contact dermatitis. The blistering spread over weeks to months down the ipsilateral leg and then to the other leg and hips. A biopsy for H&E and direct immunofluorescence established the diagnosis of BP. A concomitantly occurring wound infection was identified and treated. The blistering responded well to superpotent topical steroids and local care.
© BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2019. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.
KEYWORDS: dermatology; joint interposition; orthopaedics

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