Israel Active

(Thanks to San Diego Jewish World) Scientists at Tel Aviv University have developed a new technique for detecting hazardous particles in the lungs.  The test can be used in emergencies such as fire rescues or as a warning of high pollution levels.

(Thanks to Stuart) The Emek Medical Center in Afula, Israel is one of many successful stories showing how ethnic groups in Israel can successfully work side by side.  Jews, Muslims, Christians and Druze raised funds together for a new cancer center, via an inspiring radio campaign.

Back in Feb 2012 I reported good pre-clinical trials of Israeli biotech BioLineRX’s BL-7010 co-polymer for the treatment of celiac disease, for which there is currently no cure or formal treatment. BioLineRX has now announced successful final results from its Phase 1/2 study of BL-7010.

Ben Gurion University Professor Zvi Bentwich has received a Grand Challenges in Global Health grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for his project in Ethiopia to wipe out parasitic worm infections. Clean water and sanitation facilities and health education are being provided.

Israeli biotech Efranat Ltd. is developing an immunotherapy treatment approach for cancer, based on a glycoprotein named GcMAF (Globulin component Macrophage Activating Factor). Efranat has just raised $4.5 million and is conducting trials at Tel Hashomer’s Sheba Medical Center.

Israel’s Novocure has announced that its NovoTTF-100A portable scalp device extends the life of brain cancer patients. The device creates an alternating electric field and has had significant success in Phase 3 trials with patients receiving chemotherapy only.

The Israeli start-up Talkspace has erected large transparent bubbles on New York’s Fifth Avenue to offer free online psychological advice to pedestrians.  Passersby can enter a make-believe living room inside an inflated dome and chat online with a psychologist.

Israel’s Brainsway has now installed 101 Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation devices worldwide – 50% in the USA and has orders for another 36.  Brainsways depression-treatment service using DTMS is covered by the insurance policies of 193 million people in the US.

(Thanks to Atid-EDI and Globes) I reported on the non-invasive diabetes finger monitor from Israeli biotech CNoga Medical in Sept 2013.  CNoga has just received a $12.5 million investment from Chinese investment fund GoCapital to help expand development and marketing.

Intel Israel has developed a Parkinson’s disease monitor that sufferers wear on their wrists.  The device records pulse, slowness of movement, tremors and sleep quality, making up to 300 observations per second.  Doctors previously relied on patients’ verbal reports and brief hospital checkups.