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 new study published in Neurology found that in-person license renewal laws and vision testing significantly reduce crashes involving drivers with dementia. Hospitalized drivers aged 60-69 were 37% less likely to have dementia in states with in-person renewal laws.
NHS experts recommend ending the mandatory friends and family test, citing its lack of scientific evidence and burden on staff. The test has collected over 30 million pieces of feedback since 2013, but its implementation is complex and costly.
Researchers from LSTM are utilizing the Polio network of labs to study neglected tropical diseases affecting over a billion people. The Ghana GPLN lab successfully tested for helminths in a pilot study, identifying a prevalence of 22%, while also detecting Strongyloides infections with no surveillance system.
A simple test has shown significant improvement in the recognition of possible posterior strokes by medical professionals. The finger-to-nose test, which assesses coordination and balance, doubled recognition rates for this type of stroke.
The Global Polio Laboratory Network has successfully tested for soil transmitted helminths and schistosomiasis in Ghana, identifying a prevalence of 22% for combined helminth infections. The study demonstrates the potential for adapting GPLN labs for monitoring and control of neglected tropical diseases.
A study published in Anesthesiology found that a novel operating room software system improved management of lung ventilation in patients during surgery, but did not affect postoperative outcomes. The system provides a 'live' schematic organ system view and digital alerts to aid physicians in decision-making.
A recent study by Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso aims to identify the most accurate stool test for detecting colorectal cancer. The research consortium will compare four different fecal immunochemical tests (FITs) to determine their effectiveness in detecting blood in the stool, a common early sign of cancer.
A Lehigh team, backed by the Canadian government and philanthropic foundations, is developing test strips for women's health issues in rural Africa. The project aims to quickly diagnose urinary tract infections and prevent premature labor, low birth weight, or spontaneous abortion.
Researchers have developed a minimally invasive, cost-effective test to detect pre-cancerous Barrett's esophagus, which can help prevent esophageal adenocarcinoma. The test involves swallowing a pill-sized balloon that swabs the esophagus and is then tested for DNA abnormalities.
Research reveals that evening hours are a high-risk time for overeating, particularly among individuals prone to binge eating. The study found that stress levels spike in the evening, increasing hunger hormone ghrelin and decreasing satiety hormone peptide YY.
Researchers at Harvard University have developed a faster method for manufacturing 'heart-on-a-chip', allowing for quicker testing of new drugs on engineered human heart tissue. This new approach aims to reduce cardiac toxicity and improve the predictability of drug effects, paving the way for safer clinical trials.
A BfR study reveals specific research fields in need of new alternative methods, such as investigating and treating human diseases like cancer and hypertension. The EU-wide solution aims to enhance transparency and promote the development of alternative methods for more animal welfare.
Researchers developed an implanted robotic system that applies traction forces to stimulate tissue growth in stunted hollow organs. The device was tested on pigs and showed a 77% increase in esophagus length, promoting cell proliferation without disrupting organ function.
A new review of published studies suggests that levels of distress and neuroticism at cancer diagnosis are useful markers of vulnerability. However, more prospective research is needed to understand the relationship between these variables and identify psychological mechanisms maintaining distress.
A 30-minute sauna bath lowers systolic and diastolic blood pressure and increases carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity, indicating improved vascular compliance. This study builds on previous findings linking regular sauna bathing to reduced risk of coronary diseases, hypertension, and Alzheimer's disease.
A group of authors from IQWiG has contradicted the American Society of Clinical Oncology's conclusion that MammaPrint can identify patients who do not require chemotherapy. The IQWiG analysis found a statistically significant disadvantage of the test for disease-free survival in certain patient groups.
A study published in Neurology found that eating at least one serving of green, leafy vegetables a day was linked to a slower rate of decline on tests of memory and thinking skills. The difference was equivalent to being 11 years younger in age.
The new guidelines recommend a set of blood tests to diagnose patients with liver disease, including bilirubin, albumin, and liver enzymes. They also provide guidance on how to manage patients with abnormal test results, aiming to reduce unnecessary repeat testing for those unlikely to have significant liver disease.
Scientists have discovered that blueberry vinegar can restore cognitive function in mice with induced amnesia by reducing the breakdown of acetylcholine and boosting brain-derived neurotrophic factor. The treatment improved short-term memory performance in maze tests and avoidance tests.
Researchers at UCSF have developed a test that can predict how patients with juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia will respond to treatment, potentially identifying those who are likely to recover spontaneously. The test uses epigenetic annotations of the genome and has been validated in an additional group of patients treated in Germany.
Researchers at Lobachevsky University have found that bee venom inhibits the growth of malignant tumors and can enhance biological activity in the body. The study also suggests that bee products may be used to treat diabetes mellitus by lowering blood sugar levels.
A new study published in JAMA Oncology analyzed data from almost 7,000 tests and found that both FDA-approved companion diagnostics and laboratory-developed tests demonstrated excellent performance on proficiency testing, exceeding 97% accuracy combined across three cancer genes. Most laboratories purchasing in vitro diagnostics for FD...
Researchers at Aalto University developed a new plasmonic biosensor that detects diseased exosomes with high sensitivity using the naked eye. This breakthrough technology enables rapid recognition of inflammatory bowel diseases, cancer, and other conditions, allowing for timely treatment initiation.
A recent study found that digital assistants on smartphones are less effective than laptop-based Google searches in providing quality sexual health advice. The researchers tested Siri and Google Assistant with 50 questions and compared their answers to laptop-based Google searches, finding that Google performed better in most cases.
Nearly 3 in 10 elite footballers at top England clubs have undetected lung and airway issues that could impair performance. Lung health screening programmes are recommended to help identify and treat these problems, improving player well-being and on-field performance.
A simple blood test detecting tumor cells in blood may predict high or low risk of breast cancer relapse. The study found that 5% of cancer-free women had a positive CTC test, associated with a 35% recurrence risk after two years.
Engineers at UC San Diego developed a smartphone case and app that allows patients to record and track their blood glucose readings anywhere. The device, called GlucPhone, uses reusable sensors and wireless transmission for accurate measurements.
Researchers say new diagnostic methods can accurately detect Lyme disease earlier, improving patient outcomes and avoiding severe long-term health problems. The improved tests are less susceptible to false-positive or false-negative results associated with current antibody-based tests.
Researchers from the University of Gothenburg have identified a new method for detecting drug use and disease through analyzing compounds in exhaled breath. The study found that methadone was present in all samples using both methods, but with varying concentrations, highlighting the importance of device design and sampling technique.
A UBC study found that iPhone pedometers missed about 1,340 steps per day compared to a purpose-built accelerometer, highlighting the need for accurate data in health research.
Researchers at Auburn University discovered that both children and adults rely more on their right ear for processing information in noisy environments. The study found that when cognitive demand increases, the right-ear advantage persists in mature auditory systems.
A new quick and portable test can detect iron and vitamin A deficiencies in under 15 minutes, providing a potential solution to the global health problem affecting over one-third of the world's population. The test has the potential to prevent blindness, anemia, and death among children and women.
Researchers found that women with a history of suicide attempts had lower circulating levels of BDNF, a protein critical for neuron function and synaptic activity, compared to those without such a history. This biomarker shows promise in predicting future suicide attempts and may be incorporated into standard blood tests at annual chec...
Researchers found that a blood test for tumour DNA can predict the likelihood of aggressive skin cancer returning, with 33% of patients who tested positive being alive after five years compared to 65% of those who didn't. The study also revealed that patients with faults in genes BRAF and NRAS are more likely to experience a return wit...
A new biomarker test developed by researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center can predict, with up to 90 percent certainty, which chemical compounds can cause DNA damage that could lead to cancer. The test, called TGx-DDI, is based on genes that are actively transcribed in a cell and can identify stress due to DNA damage.
A study found that denying patient requests for services, such as referrals and medication, is associated with lower patient satisfaction. The findings suggest that clinicians' decisions to deny these requests may penalize their patients and negatively impact their experiences.
A new study at Vanderbilt University Medical Center uses a blood test to personalize treatment for smokers. The study found that patients who are 'normal' metabolizers of nicotine respond better to varenicline (Chantix), while those who are 'slow' metabolizers do as well with a nicotine patch.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed microelectromechanical resonators that can detect biological markers in small amounts of blood, allowing for early disease detection and treatment. The test has potential applications in detecting traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and other conditions.
Scientists at NIST have discovered a way to make tiny colonies of cells grow in three-dimensional structures inside petri dishes, paving the way for more realistic biological environments for testing pharmaceuticals. The method could help bridge the gap between lab and living creature testing, speeding up drug development.
Researchers have identified a new blood-sugar marker, fructosamine, that can predict patients at highest risk of complications after joint surgery. The test detects changes in glucose control faster than current markers, which could help prevent life-threatening post-surgery complications.
A Mayo Clinic study surveyed neurosurgeons on their attitudes toward ceasing practice and testing in late career. Most disagreed with an absolute age cutoff, while half favored additional testing for neurosurgeons 65 and older. The study highlights the need to focus on patient safety and assess a surgeon's capacity over time.
Researchers compared 11 measures of aging, including blood and chromosome tests, and found that none consistently predicted physical or cognitive changes. Telomere length and epigenetic clocks showed some promise but were less clearly linked to physiological outcomes.
Researchers at UC Davis have created a method to produce all 34 proteins required for mRNA translation in the correct proportions within a single mixed culture. This breakthrough enables rapid and high-purity reconstitution of cellular reactions, making it useful for various applications such as disease diagnosis and drug development.
A new smartphone app has shown comparable results to in-office vision testing for patients with age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. The Checkup app encourages patients to take an active role in their care, sending reminders and storing test results securely.
A new blood test can accurately predict which patients are at risk of liver damage from paracetamol overdose, enabling targeted treatment and reducing hospital stays. The test detects three specific molecules associated with liver damage, allowing for earlier intervention and more effective care.
La Jolla Institute researchers find Histamine-Releasing Factor (HRF) exacerbates both asthma and food allergies. Inhibiting HRF may prevent allergic reactions, offering a new treatment avenue.
A simple colour-changing test developed by researchers at the University of Bath can detect high levels of fluoride in drinking water, which can cause crippling skeletal fluorosis. The test aims to be low cost, rapid, and robust, allowing anyone to perform a test without scientific training.
A new neurostimulator device inserted into the nose has shown significant relief for people suffering from dry eyes, increasing tear production and producing a complete tear. Researchers tested 97 patients with moderate to severe dry eye and reported no side effects.
A low-cost rapid blood test can accurately rule out heart attack risk in nearly half of all patients with chest pain, saving millions from further tests and reducing healthcare costs. The test, which measures troponin levels in the blood, can identify a threshold level below which patients are unlikely to have had a heart attack.
A new study reveals that visual intelligence is a separate entity from general intelligence (IQ), with considerable individual differences among people. Researchers developed a novel test to measure visual object recognition and found that performance on this task was not predictive of IQ.
Researchers have discovered a unique 'breathprint' of people with malaria, allowing for accurate diagnosis using a breath test. The analysis found that infected patients exhale a compound attracting mosquitoes, accelerating disease spread.
Researchers have created a simple, fast and sensitive test system to determine the toxicity of carbon nanomaterials. The system uses a unique enzymatic system called Enzymolum, which reacts differently to various additives.
A study by UC San Francisco and CDPH found that lead in imported candy was the top source of food-borne contamination in California, with nearly all cases coming from Mexico, China, and India. The testing program has identified lead sources upstream, allowing for removal before poisoning can occur.
A recent study found that cloth skullcaps are more effective than disposable bouffant hats in reducing airborne contamination in operating rooms. The researchers tested three types of headgear and observed lower particle counts and microbial shedding with cloth caps, suggesting they may be a better option for minimizing infection risk.
Researchers aim to detect synthetic opioids, heroin, and a heroin substitute in saliva samples from inmates, arrestees, and DUI suspects. This study could save time and money by using a single sample for multiple drug tests.
A study published in The Lancet Public Health found that federal drinking water regulations reduced toxic exposure and protected human health. Compliance with the EPA regulation led to a decline of 17% in levels of urinary arsenic, resulting in an estimated reduction of over 200 cases of lung and bladder cancer every year.
A recent study published in The Journals of Gerontology: Series A found that individuals who consumed more fruit, vegetables, and wholegrain cereals across their adult lives performed better in physical function tests at age 60-64. Improving diet quality throughout adulthood can have a significant beneficial effect on strength and phys...
Researchers developed a plan to eliminate unnecessary medical testing by providing educational efforts, auditing testing patterns, and harnessing electronic medical records. This initiative aims to reduce medical bills while improving patient outcomes, safety, and satisfaction.
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) has released a position statement on home sleep apnea testing, emphasizing the importance of a physician's involvement in diagnosing and treating obstructive sleep apnea. The guideline outlines conditions under which a home sleep apnea test can be used for diagnosis.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that live phone calls are significantly more effective at reminding patients to complete and return at-home fecal screening tests for colon cancer. Phone calls outperformed other reminder strategies, including text messages and letters, especially among Spanish-speaking patients.