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A blood test for cancer shows promise thanks to machine learning

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a machine-learning model that detects cancers at an early stage by analyzing fragments of cell-free DNA in plasma. The technique, which uses readily available lab materials, distinguished people with any stage of cancer from healthy individuals 91% of the time.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 19, 2023

Artificial intelligence tool developed to help make real-time diagnoses during surgery

A new AI tool developed by Brigham and Women's Hospital improves the accuracy of time-critical pathology diagnostics during surgery. The tool, which leverages deep-learning technology, translates frozen tissue samples into high-quality images, increasing diagnostic accuracy and reducing the need for lengthy laboratory tests.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeObservational study·DateDec 23, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Artificial Intelligence searches an early sign of osteoarthritis from an x-ray image – might save from unnecessary treatments and examination

Researchers developed an AI-based neural network to detect early knee osteoarthritis from x-ray images, matching doctors' diagnoses in 87% of cases. This method could help reduce unnecessary examinations, treatments, and even knee joint replacement surgery.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalDiagnostics·TypeObservational study·DateDec 15, 2022

New study maps the development of the 20 most common psychiatric disorders

The study analyzed over 180,000 patients, finding that depression, addiction, and stress reaction disorder are the most uncertain diagnoses. Doctors can use this data to predict treatment outcomes and improve care for patients, ultimately leading to better evidence-based follow-up.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 27, 2022
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Alzheimer's or Lewy body dementia? How patients draw can determine the type of dementia

A study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease found that analyzing patients' drawing tests can help diagnose Alzheimer's disease (AD) and distinguish it from dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). The researchers discovered that DLB patients showed differences in speed-, pressure-, and pause-related features, whereas AD patients sh...

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·DateNov 3, 2022

Test for carbon monoxide poisoning is unreliable and should not be used

A systematic review and meta-analysis found that pulse oximetry has a high false negative rate, making it inaccurate for triaging patients with suspected carbon monoxide poisoning. The researchers recommend developing alternative methods for rapid screening of carbon monoxide levels in capillaries.

SourceEuropean Society for Emergency Medicine (EUSEM)·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 17, 2022

Are smartwatch health apps to detect atrial fibrillation smart enough?

A study published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology found that smartwatch health apps detecting atrial fibrillation generated a high rate of false positives and inconclusive results, especially in patients with certain cardiac conditions. Better algorithms and machine learning may help improve the accuracy of these devices.

SourceElsevier·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2022

Ovarian cancer detection takes a step forward, thanks to Wilmot

A new study has successfully predicted ovarian cancer in patients with a pelvic mass using a simple blood test. The liquid biopsy technology captures circulating tumor cells, allowing for genetic analysis in just a couple of hours, which can help diagnose the disease earlier.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 8, 2022
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Novel technique helps discover whether bacteria that cause meningitis are resistant to antibiotics

A novel method developed by Brazilian researchers can analyze bacterial samples without isolating live bacteria, making it easier to detect antibiotic resistance in Streptococcus pneumoniae. The technique was tested on 873 samples and found that 51% were sensitive to antibiotics, while 17% were resistant.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 6, 2022

New portable diagnostic detects SARS-CoV-2 RNA and antibodies at the same time

A new point-of-care diagnostic device combines CRISPR with electrochemical sensing to track COVID-19 infections' course via saliva. The device can simultaneously detect both SARS-CoV-2 RNA and antibodies, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional lab tests.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 8, 2022

For better diagnosis of rare/genetic diseases

PubCaseFinder, a clinical decision support system, has been updated to provide more precise phenotyping and automated differential diagnosis. The new version enables users to filter ranked lists using causative genes, modes of inheritance, and disease names, making it easier for medical professionals to diagnose rare and genetic diseases.

SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·JournalHuman Mutation·DateAug 3, 2022

Global contrast media shortage: Strategies for conservation

The global contrast media shortage has affected millions of diagnostic imaging examinations and requires immediate attention. Researchers propose several methods to conserve contrast media, including weight-based dosing and adjusting CT settings.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 30, 2022
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Drawing a better picture of global cognition in older adults

A study published in JMIR Formative Research reveals that automated analysis of a common clinical drawing task can be used to estimate cognition in older adults from Japan and the USA. Researchers found that people with lower cognitive scores had more variability in their drawing speed, angle, and time spent paused during the task.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalJMIR Formative Research·DateJun 16, 2022

Joining the fight against non-small cell lung cancer

Researchers have identified new biomarkers to detect non-small cell lung cancer in its early stages through a blood test, offering improved survival chances. The approach can also identify potential drug resistance, allowing clinicians to choose alternative treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 2, 2022

Compared to COVID-19 PCR testing, dogs can detect infections with high sensitivity (97%), though lower specificity (91%) - even when patients are asymptomatic

A study published in PLOS ONE found that dogs can detect SARS-CoV-2 infections with high sensitivity (97%) and lower specificity (91%), even when patients are asymptomatic. The diagnostic accuracy of canine olfaction for non-invasive detection of COVID-19 was demonstrated in a clinical trial conducted in France and the UAE.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 1, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Different stroke symptoms could be making them harder to spot early in women

New research reveals that women with strokes often exhibit generalized symptoms such as confusion and weakness, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses. Women also face worse post-stroke outcomes, including increased institutionalization rates, compared to men.

SourceGeorge Institute for Global Health·JournalInternational Journal of Stroke·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 13, 2022
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Getting to the heart of bedwetting

Researchers recommend expanding diagnostic workup to include cardiac arrhythmias for unexplained enuresis in adults and children. An electrocardiogram is a cost-effective and non-invasive test that can detect potentially fatal diseases.

SourceElsevier·JournalHeart Rhythm·TypeSurvey·DateApr 7, 2022

New studies in journal of pharmaceutical analysis demonstrate advancements in nanotechnology and their impact across multiple areas of human health

Recent studies published in the Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis have found applications of nanotechnology in medicine, drug research, and environmental protection. Researchers developed nanodots made of carbon using natural polysaccharides from mushrooms to detect chromium, and created nanozymes that could be used to detect drug con...

SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 7, 2022

Kids with rare autoimmune disease show these symptoms before blood clots

Researchers identified common features of pediatric antiphospholipid syndrome, a rare autoimmune disease causing inflammation and recurring blood clots. Nearly half of children with APS experienced recurrent blood clots despite treatment, highlighting the need for early diagnosis and prevention.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalPediatric Rheumatology·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 22, 2022
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Distinct gut microbial profile may identify pancreatic cancer, irrespective of stage

Research suggests that changes in the microbiome may play a role in both the development and progression of pancreatic cancer. A distinct gut microbial profile was observed in patients with ductal pancreatic cancer compared to those without the disease, and this signature consistently identified patients regardless of disease stage.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalGut·TypeObservational study·DateMar 8, 2022

Study finds ulcerated plaque in the femoropopliteal artery as source of arterial embolism in the popliteal arteries

A study of 31 patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) reveals a high correlation between ulcerated plaque in the femoropopliteal artery and poor angiographic runoff scores, suggesting a possible origin for arterial embolism. This discovery could lead to improved treatment methods for PAD.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 17, 2022
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Digital breast tomosynthesis spot compression clarifies ambiguous DBT findings

A study published in American Journal of Roentgenology found that digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) spot compression views increased both intrareader and interreader agreement, as well as diagnostic accuracy, for equivocal findings. This improvement was primarily due to increased specificity.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 16, 2022

New benchmark could improve detection of genetic variants linked to spinal muscular atrophy, other diseases

A new DNA benchmark, developed by NIST and collaborators, enables more accurate detection of genetic variants linked to diseases such as spinal muscular atrophy. The benchmark, based on HiFi sequencing technology, helps labs and clinics sequence genes with high accuracy, critical for disease diagnosis and treatment.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateFeb 7, 2022

Constant tinnitus is linked to altered brain activity

Researchers from Karolinska Institutet developed a novel method to diagnose constant tinnitus using auditory brainstem responses (ABR). The study found that people with occasional tinnitus are at increased risk of developing constant tinnitus, while those with existing constant tinnitus are more likely to experience persistent symptoms.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 26, 2022

Fast, cheap test can detect COVID-19 virus’ genome without need for PCR

Researchers at University of Washington developed a fast, cheap test for COVID-19 that combines speed of antigen tests with accuracy of PCR tests. The Harmony COVID-19 test detects genetic material from SARS-CoV-2 virus with 97% accuracy and provides results in under 20 minutes.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2022
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Undescended testis: fate of fertility predicted by blood biomarkers

A recent study published in The Journal of Urology found that serum hormone ratios can predict the risk of future infertility in children with cryptorchidism. Researchers discovered that inhibin B levels and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) are significant markers of spermatogenesis, helping to identify boys at high risk of infertility.

SourceNagoya City University·JournalThe Journal of Urology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 19, 2022
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Physicians over-relying on a commonly used laboratory test can miss liver cirrhosis

Research from MUSC suggests that physicians should be cautious when using laboratory tests to diagnose alcoholic cirrhosis due to false negative results. Patients with advanced liver disease often show subtle signs and symptoms in the early stages of cirrhosis.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalThe American Journal of the Medical Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateDec 17, 2021

New AI system provides the consistent endoscopic evaluation

Researchers developed an AI system to detect inflammation in ulcerative colitis patients using live colonoscopy videos. The system accurately predicted remission cases with high accuracy, reducing the need for invasive biopsies.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalThe Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology·DateDec 13, 2021

Giving AI penalties to get better diagnoses

A new study improves AI diagnoses by penalizing algorithms for false negatives, which can be more urgent than accuracy. Researchers achieved significant improvements in precision and recall for chronic kidney disease and other conditions using cost sensitivity techniques.

SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalInformatics in Medicine Unlocked·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 1, 2021

Plasma biomarkers predict long-term kidney function after acute kidney injury

A plasma biomarker panel identified a combination of sTNFR1, sTNFR2, cystatin C, and eGFR that discriminated between patients with worsening or low risk of chronic kidney disease after three years. This combination was particularly effective at identifying those with very low risk of subsequent kidney dysfunction.

SourceNational Kidney Foundation·JournalAmerican Journal of Kidney Diseases·DateOct 12, 2021
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Calculated risk – A new tool to predict mortality in patients with liver failure

A novel mortality risk prediction method helps tailor treatment decisions and transplant needs for patients based on individual symptoms. The new tool uses a random survival forest algorithm to predict individual mortality risk curves, calculate mortality at any given time, and provide a 95% confidence interval.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 9, 2021

Using two CRISPR enzymes, a COVID diagnostic in only 20 minutes

Researchers at UC Berkeley created a rapid COVID-19 diagnostic test utilizing tandem CRISPR nucleases, which accelerates RNA detection and reduces sample handling. This innovation simplifies the assay process, making it faster and more efficient for SARS-CoV-2 virus detection.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 2021
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Ultrasound-guided percutaneous needle biopsy excellent for small pleural lesions diagnosis

A study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found that ultrasound-guided percutaneous needle biopsy is highly accurate for diagnosing small pleural lesions with nodular morphology or thickness over 4.5 mm. The procedure yielded a diagnostic accuracy rate of 85.4% and a 96.4% yield rate for nodular CT lesions.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateNov 6, 2020
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Are physical examinations really necessary?

Family physicians value physical exams for their diagnostic and empathetic benefits, promoting a healing relationship with patients. The research highlights the importance of physical exams in today's clinical practice, where emerging technology is changing the way doctors interact with patients.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJul 10, 2019

Novel index accurately predicts PCI success post procedure compared to standard measurement metrics

A novel non-hyperemic pressure ratio (NHPR) index, combined with fractional flow reserve (FFR), accurately predicts percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) success. The study found a significant linear correlation between NHPR and FFR, with a Pd/Pa value of <0.90 demonstrating excellent diagnostic performance against FFR.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·DateMay 21, 2019

Diagnosing strokes is complicated by 'mimics' and 'chameleons'

Stroke specialists often see conditions known as stroke mimics and 'chameleons' that can mimic ischemic strokes, making accurate diagnosis complicated. Accurate diagnosis requires a detailed history and neurologic examination to avoid administering clot-busting drugs incorrectly.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalNeuroimaging Clinics of North America·DateOct 26, 2018
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

What is the cost of interrupting a radiologist?

A study finds that interrupting radiologists does not reduce diagnostic accuracy but changes their focus and increases time spent on cases, with more time spent on dictation screens.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Medical Imaging·DateMar 19, 2018