Abstract: A sensor for monitoring a physiological function such as hydration including microelectrode arrays and electronics operatively connected and placed on an elastic strip, the assembled sensor being attached to a person in such a manner as to pinch and raise the skin under the elastic strip.

Abstract: The invention is directed to methods suitable for detecting the presence of a plurality of immune system modulators in a complex solution by running a single sample through a mass spectrometer without any surface preparation or preliminary purification step. Immune system modulators that can be analyzed with the methods of the present invention include cytokines (interferons and interleukins), chemokines, host cell response molecules, and peptide fragments. The method also allows the identification of truncated receptors for immune modulators secreted by infected cells or pathogens, such as virokines, and other pathogen-encoded proteins that affect the host immune system.

Abstract: This proposal specifically addresses the problem of rapid medical evaluation of civilian or military personnel after potential exposure to biological weapons (BW). We propose to expand current non-invasive methods of infection detection through breath analysis used to measure nitric oxide (NO) production following exposure/infection. We will establish methods to analyze respired proteins as early markers of infection. Breath vapor will be collected and analyzed by mass spectrometry for indicators of host cell responses such as cytokine production and agent specific factors derived from biological threats such as cell wall components or virulence factors. As part of this effort we will develop the prototype for a single integrated collection device. This device would permit coordinate collection and analysis of NO levels and condensed exhaled air.

Abstract: The invention is directed to methods suitable for detecting the presence of a plurality of immune system modulators in a complex solution by running a single sample through a mass spectrometer without any surface preparation or preliminary purification step. Immune system modulators that can be analyzed with the methods of the present invention include cytokines (interferons and interleukins), chemokines, host cell response molecules, and peptide fragments. The method also allows the identification of truncated receptors for immune modulators secreted by infected cells or pathogens, such as virokines, and other pathogen-encoded proteins that affect the host immune system.