Articles tagged with Medical Tests
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
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Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A recent study by Brigham and Women's Hospital found that pregnancies among women taking isotretinoin continue to occur despite a special restricted distribution program, iPLEDGE. The study reported a range of 218-310 pregnancies per year after 2011, highlighting the need for further regulations to reduce this number.
Researchers created a comprehensive test using machine learning algorithms to better guide patient management for pancreatic cysts, a precursor of pancreatic cancer. The test, called CompCyst, outperformed the current standard-of-care in an international study, avoiding surgery in 60% of patients who underwent unnecessary removal.
A large retrospective study found that statins are significantly underutilized in patients with and at risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Despite known benefits, only two-thirds of these patients were receiving moderate/high-intensity statins.
Researchers found that young athletes who fail to achieve a 90 percent score on quadricep strength tests are at increased risk for second knee injuries. Those who failed individual return-to-sport criteria were three times more likely to suffer contralateral ACL tears.
A study of over 150 youth tackle football players found minimal changes in neurocognitive outcomes after two seasons, with no correlation between head impacts and cognitive function. Other factors like ADHD and younger age were more predictive of worsening scores on pre- and post-season tests.
A new optical sensor developed at Berkeley Lab can provide reliable information on building damage immediately after an earthquake. The Discrete Diode Position Sensor (DDPS) measures interstory drift and will speed up efforts to safely assess, repair, and reoccupy buildings post-quake.
A recent study published in PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases reveals that female Anopheles mosquitoes bite more often and have varied diets than previously assumed. The study also found that certain species of Anopheles mosquitoes, typically considered less important for malaria transmission, are infected with the Plasmodium parasite.
A new blood test has shown potential to diagnose human tuberculosis and identify those at most risk of developing the disease. The test, Actiphage, was found to be highly sensitive in detecting Mycobacterium tuberculosis, with 73% of participants testing positive for the bacteria.
A new breakthrough in sensor technology uses a one-molecule-thick coating to improve detection of diseases and detect doping in sports. The coating, based on beta-cyclodextrin, produces sensors around ten times more sensitive than existing ones, allowing for earlier diagnosis and detection at lower concentrations.
A Kumamoto University study found that drinking Matcha tea can reduce anxiety by activating dopamine D1 and serotonin receptors. The anxiolytic effects were stronger with extracts derived using 80% ethanol than those using hot water.
A new epidemic forecast model developed by Texas A&M researchers can accurately predict disease trajectories by taking into account human behavior. This allows for more effective resource allocation during outbreaks, reducing the risk of over-preparation and public mistrust.
A new ultrasensitive chemiluminescence-based method has been developed to rapidly detect Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes. This test can be carried out in the field and requires no containment laboratory, significantly faster than conventional methods.
A new iPad app, mPATH-CRC, will be tested in North Carolina and Kentucky clinics to increase colorectal cancer screenings. The project aims to determine the optimal way to implement technology-based programs to improve medical care delivery.
A review of 117 efforts to reduce low-value care found that most measured only the reduction of test and treatment use, while few assessed intended patient benefits or unintended consequences. Only half of ongoing studies aim to measure patient-reported outcomes, highlighting a need for more comprehensive evaluation.
A new protocol implemented at Montgomery Hospital resulted in a 25-hour reduction in patients' time on broad spectrum antibiotics, saving $322,508 over four months. The interdisciplinary approach combined comprehensive blood culture identification testing with pharmacist recommendations to optimize antibiotic use.
A new study proposes a novel, non-invasive test for assessing gut function that may help screen and monitor treatment of gut diseases. The test measures the concentration of gut bacterial products in patient's blood and stool, detecting gut leakage and its potential impact on IBD and other intestinal diseases.
Researchers at Penn State's Sensory Evaluation Center found that milk significantly reduces capsaicin burn, with whole milk and skim milk showing the largest reductions. Milk's effectiveness is attributed to its protein content, which may play a more relevant role than fat content.
Researchers found that levels of neurofilament light chain (NfL) in the blood contribute to stroke risk in diabetic patients. The study discovered a strong association between NfL levels and stroke occurrence, suggesting that adding this protein to existing stroke risk scores can increase accuracy.
A new intelligent liver function test has been developed to detect liver disease decades before it can become fatal. The test has shown a 44% increase in diagnosis of liver disease, giving patients earlier access to treatment.
A new biomarker test developed by researchers at Uppsala University and Sahlgrenska Academy can detect women without cancer, reducing unnecessary surgery. The test has a high accuracy rate of one in three cases, increasing the detection of early stages and borderline cases.
A human-on-a-chip model developed by Hesperos, Inc. realistically replicates the responses of cancer treatments, enabling more accurate and efficient preclinical testing. The model demonstrated efficacy and toxicity of anticancer drugs on various cell lines, informing treatment decisions for individual patients.
A Texas Biomed Associate Professor has received a $100,000 grant to test an FDA-approved drug for reversing age-related cognitive decline and memory deficits in aged baboons. The study aims to develop a therapeutic intervention to enhance brain cell function and improve overall health.
A study of 5,704 patients with MS found that those with pediatric-onset disease had lower test scores and faster declining cognitive abilities. Patients with pediatric-onset MS were also more likely to experience cognitive impairment compared to those with adult-onset MS.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have developed a test for early detection of diseases, including different types of cancer, using sensory nanoparticles. The test can identify unique
Scientists have developed a method to transport individual droplets using transverse surface waves, enabling more efficient applications in lab-on-a-chip systems and self-cleaning surfaces. This technology also opens up possibilities for harvesting moisture from the air and improving blood tests.
A new approach is needed for clinical trials in dialysis patients to address high morbidity and mortality. Innovative RCT designs, such as pragmatic clinical trials and adaptive platform designs, can improve the success of testing interventions in ESRD.
Researchers found almost 60% of patients were over 65, and nearly a third lived in socio-economically deprived areas. The study also revealed high rates of the disease in regions with previously low numbers of cases, including Canterbury and Hawkes Bay.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University developed a low-cost, smartphone-based diagnostic system using nanoscale porous silicon to detect various bodily fluids. The system accurately detects proteins in urine and bacteria in water with accuracy comparable to commercial benchtop measurement systems.
Researchers used exosomes to detect microRNAs targeting carbohydrate metabolism in obese teens. The study found a link between altered adipocyte-derived exosomal microRNAs and progression from obese normoglycemia to hyperglycemia/diabetes.
A new analysis of 997 twin pregnancies reveals that cell-free DNA testing for Down syndrome is just as accurate as in singleton pregnancies, with a detection rate of 98% and only 0.05% misdiagnosis rate. The study provides compelling evidence to recommend cfDNA testing for mothers carrying twins.
A new blood test that measures multiple proteins could provide a more accurate diagnosis of heart failure, allowing for earlier treatment and improved outcomes. Researchers are now collecting further samples to confirm the accuracy of this protein-based test.
Research reveals two distinct brain regions involved in recognizing raw and processed foods, highlighting the importance of semantic memory in identifying key characteristics. The study's findings have significant clinical implications, particularly for understanding eating disorders related to neurodegenerative diseases.
A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that nonfasting lipid levels were similar to fasting lipid levels in the same individuals, predicting cardiovascular risk just as well. The results suggest it may be unnecessary for most patients to fast before having bloodwork done to measure lipid levels.
Researchers developed a device that uses ultraviolet light to measure stress biomarkers in bodily fluids, providing an easy-to-interpret result. The device can be used to monitor health and detect potential health problems, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
A new study found that middle-aged individuals' health can predict their brain function later in life. Factors such as smoking, diabetes, and a history of head injury were associated with increased risk of brain aging.
A new study from the University of Cambridge suggests that virtual reality can spot navigation problems in early Alzheimer's disease, a condition affecting over 525,000 people in the UK. The research highlights the potential of new technologies to help diagnose and monitor conditions like Alzheimer's.
Researchers found similar patterns of diagnostic laboratory tests across five countries, despite differences in poverty levels and disease prevalence. The top 25 most common tests were common everywhere, with biochemical tests being the lowest priced.
The Johns Hopkins researchers advocate for a 'digital health scorecard' to provide objective validation and ratings for health technology solutions. They aim to address the lack of rigor in evaluating health care technology, which often prioritizes speed over safety and clinical effectiveness.
Researchers used cognitive dysfunction tests and analysis of drug use patterns to identify patients at high risk of relapse after treatment. The study suggests that a revised classification system may be needed to better predict vulnerability to relapse.
A new CDC study cautions that sports whistles used by referees, coaches, and others are a risk factor for hearing loss. The study measured the acoustic signature of 13 whistle brands, finding sound levels between 100-120 decibels, which can exceed safe daily exposure within just a few seconds.
Scientists have developed a new test to examine a drug's embryotoxicity in cell cultures instead of animals. The test uses human liver tissue and embryoid bodies, allowing for early detection of substances harmful to embryos.
A joint report from AMP and CAP provides evidence-based recommendations for designing and validating clinical CYP2C9 assays, promoting standardization and improving patient care. The report defines a minimum set of alleles and their variants that should be included in all clinical CYP2C9 genotyping tests.
A study of gay and bisexual men in Melbourne found that kissing, with or without sex, was associated with a higher risk of throat gonorrhoea. The researchers suggest that this may be an important route of transmission, potentially leading to new preventive options.
Researchers compared common bedside testing platforms to determine blood clotting speed and found the iSTAT platform offers a better balance of speed and accuracy. The Hepcon system provides consistent results with lab-based anti-Xa tests but lacks physiologically active heparin levels, making it less valuable for patient care.
Researchers investigated whether taking aspirin before a fecal immunochemical test could improve the ability to detect cancer precursors. The study found no statistically significant difference in detection rates between those who took aspirin and those who took a placebo.
Researchers developed a microchannel trapping device to detect bacteria in patient samples quickly, reducing testing time from days to minutes. The device can classify bacteria into three main shapes and identify antimicrobial susceptibility directly from clinical samples.
A digital procedural checklist for trauma centers has been developed and implemented, supporting trauma teams without hindering performance. The checklist, which includes over 55 tasks, was designed through years of collaborative research and testing, and its use in real trauma settings showed positive results.
A survey of fourth-year radiology residents who took the 2018 ABR Core Exam found that those who passed perceived higher value in preparation resources. Residents who passed also had more study time off and higher USMLE step 1 scores compared to those who failed.
Scientists have identified three specific subtypes of precursor cells that go on to become fat cells, which may help determine an individual's health risk. The discovery could lead to the development of new treatments that target 'fast burning' fat cells to prevent weight gain and metabolic disease.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have created a blood test that can flag the disease, which currently lacks a standard diagnostic test. The test successfully identified participants in a study with chronic fatigue syndrome and is being used to screen for potential drugs that may help treat the condition.
The number of gonorrhoea cases in the EU/EEA has risen by 17% in 2017, with over 240 cases per day, largely due to antibiotic resistance. The majority of cases are reported among men who have sex with men, and women are increasingly affected as well.
A hospital electronic health record system with diagnostic stewardship strategy reduced inappropriate GI test use by 46% and saved up to $168,000. The hardwired alerts and 'hard stop' feature improved care without compromising quality.
A study from Yale University finds that low mobility is a significant predictor of hospital readmission in older heart attack patients. Patients who took more than 25 seconds on the Timed Up and Go test were nearly twice as likely to be readmitted after a heart attack.
A team at Vanderbilt University is developing 'safe harbor' standards of care based on scientific evidence to reduce defensive medicine and its consequences. The project aims to lower healthcare costs, improve quality of care, and decrease patient exposure to radiation.
Researchers developed ELISAtools to limit variability in research-use-only assay kits, enabling more consistent results over time. The software provides a stable platform for comparing data from different kits, reducing variability by up to 90%.
A large study found that moving more is linked to living longer, with a 2.8% reduction in all-cause mortality for each milliliter increase in maximal oxygen uptake. The benefits of fitness were seen in men and women across all age groups and fitness levels.
Researchers found commercially available fish preparations for skin prick testing varied greatly in allergen content, leading to false negative results and potential life-threatening consequences. The team is working on advanced diagnostics and therapy for seafood allergy.
A color test developed at University of Technology Sydney can accurately detect all cathinones, a new illicit synthetic drug entering the market every four days. The test is now commercialized and being marketed to police and customs agencies in Europe, offering a solution for detecting new psychoactive substances.
A new urine test using nanoparticles that detect early enzyme activity of immune cells attacking cancer has received a major funding boost from the National Institutes of Health. The test can identify immunotherapy effectiveness very early, helping doctors adjust treatment and combat resistance.
A new blood test has been shown to diagnose pre-eclampsia on average two days sooner than current methods, reducing serious complications by 20%. The test measures placental growth factor (PlGF) in a woman's blood, enabling clinicians to provide timely and targeted care.