Magnetic sunburst

Description

Honorable Mention In this image, nanofibers coat magnetic beads. These spiny beads are used to detect and diagnose malaria. This nest of nanofibers has a larger surface area than a plain bead has on its own, which creates many more binding sites for malaria proteins. More sites mean a more efficient and sensitive diagnostic test. Faster and more accurate diagnoses can give patients a better chance for recovery. Portable diagnostics like this malaria test are especially important in developing nations, where access to clinics is often limited. These devices can be used remotely and return results rapidly wherever the patient is located, reducing the time and cost needed for diagnosis and, hopefully, helping more people get the treatment they need.

Abstract

This image originally appeared as part of Northwestern's Scientific Images Contest. The contest and subsequent exhibitions are organized by Science in Society, the university's research center for science education and public engagement. Further information and opportunities to participate are available on their website. Prints and canvas editions of these Northwestern research images can also be purchased online (with the small net profit going to science education and outreach programming in the Chicago area).

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