Research on the tests that detect and monitor disease. Covers blood tests, cancer monitoring, emergency diagnostics, and new patent-pending assays.
Researchers from San Diego State University have developed a portable balance board called BTrackS that provides fast, objective feedback on an athlete's balance disruption following a suspected concussion. The technology has been found to be about twice as effective as the most widely used balance test for concussion nationwide.
A new study found that estrogen replacement therapy improves verbal memory and cognitive flexibility in young female athletes with amenorrhea. The study showed significant improvements in both immediate recall of words and ability to switch between tasks, even when controlling for age and pre-treatment test scores.
Scientists have repurposed portable glucose monitors to detect diseases using enzymes and liposomes. The method accurately detects thrombin levels, corresponding to restricted blood flow or heart disease. This approach could be used to detect other disease-associated proteins.
A new perspective paper advocates for a comprehensive approach to recognize and manage therapeutic illusion to improve the use of medical treatments. Physicians' unjustified beliefs in treatment can perpetuate unnecessary and costly care.
A new study reveals that despite the availability of lung cancer tests and treatment to 70% of the world's population, large discrepancies exist in patient access. The study found that many poorer countries lack access to essential tests and treatments due to high costs and low HDI scores.
Lyme disease is transmitted by ticks primarily carrying the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi. Researchers are exploring four arms of treatment-related research, including a mouse study of a regimen that eradicated the bacteria in the test tube and strategies to discover new drugs selectively targeting the Lyme bacterium. The goal is to pr...
Mount Sinai researchers found that testing service and time of collection significantly influenced results, with some test providers flagging more abnormal readings than others. The study highlights the importance of accurate lab test results in medical decision-making.
A study by the University of Geneva found that excessive noise disrupts premature babies' tactile skills, hindering their ability to memorize shapes and distinguish between objects. The researchers suggest implementing environmental measures to reduce noise levels in neonatal units to support optimal brain development.
African American patients are less likely to receive a common genomic test that predicts the seriousness of early-stage breast cancer. The study found higher scores among African Americans, indicating an increased likelihood of aggressive tumor biology benefiting from chemotherapy.
A study from Sahlgrenska Academy found that free gynecological pap test screenings did not increase participation among women in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas. Despite a low fee of SEK 11, the results showed only a slight difference in participation rates between those offered free screening and those who paid the usual fee.
A study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that women tend to perform better on verbal memory tests and have less brain shrinkage in areas responsible for verbal memory. This suggests that women may be protected from loss of verbal memory skills before Alzheimer's disease symptoms appear.
In vitro tests of Vype ePen e-cigarette vapor revealed no activation of cell stress responses, DNA damage, or cellular transformation. In contrast, cigarette smoke induced significant DNA damage and promoted tumour formation in human lung cells.
A University of Florida study found that less than one-quarter of patients with prediabetes received treatment from their primary care physician. Prediabetes is a common condition that increases the risk of vascular problems and diabetes, yet many people remain undiagnosed or untreated.
Research finds that single and double-bundle ACL reconstruction techniques yield comparable outcomes in patients undergoing surgery, with both groups demonstrating similar knee stability and health post-recovery. The study also notes no significant difference in performance tests between the two techniques.
The USPSTF found convincing evidence that visual acuity testing can identify refractive errors, but inadequate evidence on the benefits of screening and detection. Early treatment of refractive error, cataracts, and AMD improves or prevents loss of visual acuity, with small harms from early treatment.
Researchers at NYU Langone Health found that non-native English speakers performed slower on sideline vision tests and had higher saccade rates compared to native English speakers. The study suggests that clinicians and trainers need to consider language when interpreting test results, which may impact concussion detection.
Children with ADHD often exhibit hyperactive behavior when trying to solve problems. New FSU research shows that movement can positively impact working memory and cognitive function in these children. The study's findings suggest that fidgeting may be a helpful strategy for improving attention, impulse control, and school success.
The Institute for In Vitro Sciences (IIVS) received a grant from the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM) to develop non-animal test methods for fragrance materials. The project aims to characterize respiratory effects using computational approaches and in chemico techniques.
A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that Charlie Sheen's public disclosure of his HIV status led to a significant increase in Google searches related to the disease. The study suggests that this surge in interest may have benefited public health by raising awareness and driving people to learn more about HIV prevention.
Researchers from MIPT and MSU created a computer model predicting agrochemical activity using machine learning and Kohonen self-organizing maps. The model showed high predictive power, accurately classifying molecules into pesticides or plant growth regulators with 87% accuracy.
A new coordinated soybean variety evaluation program aims to provide African farmers with high-yielding and disease-resistant seed options. The program, in partnership with the Syngenta Foundation and the University of Illinois, tests 25 varieties at 12 locations across Kenya, Malawi, and Zambia.
Researchers will develop software using virtual human models to predict injuries and recommend training modifications based on individual soldier characteristics. The program aims to prevent musculoskeletal injuries in US Marines and potentially benefit veterans and older adults with musculoskeletal injuries.
Research suggests that endovascular treatment can improve cognitive functioning and executive abilities after an ischemic stroke. Patients who underwent thrombectomy showed better preservation of executive function compared to those treated with medication alone.
The Atlas io system uses DNA probes with bespoke electrochemical tags to detect infectious diseases in less than 30 minutes. This technology has significant benefits over existing diagnostic tests, allowing for faster results and potentially reducing the spread of sexually transmitted infections.
Researchers found that mild stress increases brown fat activity, linked to higher cortisol levels and potential heat production. This discovery has implications for preventing obesity and diabetes through sustainable interventions.
Declines in PSA testing varied by physician type, with primary care physicians showing a larger decrease than urologists. The study suggests that perceptions of PSA screening benefits and conflicting guidelines may contribute to the differences.
Researchers have discovered a new bacterial species, B. mayonii, that causes Lyme disease in people in the upper Midwestern US. The species was previously unknown and has been identified through PCR testing of patient samples.
A simple test can rapidly detect preeclampsia, a deadly pregnancy-related condition affecting 5-8% of pregnancies worldwide. The Congo Red Dot (CRD) diagnostic test has an accuracy rate of 86%, identifying high blood pressure and protein in the urine.
Researchers developed a new test that detected mesothelioma 4-10 years before symptoms appeared, using a specific protein marker. The ONCOblot test detected the ENOX2 protein in serum samples from asbestos-exposed individuals, paving the way for earlier cancer detection and potentially reducing deaths.
A new report found that mature drivers are in favour of tighter rules on checking the health and suitability of over-70s to drive. Over half of respondents self-regulate to stay safe, but many support measures to increase their safety on the roads, such as annual tests and regular eyesight checks.
A new paper outlines how the University of Utah hospitalists used a tool developed at University of Utah Health Care to reduce unnecessary lab testing, decreasing lab costs by nearly 10 percent per patient visit. The approach resulted in significant cost savings and improved resource allocation.
A new investigation by The BMJ questions the validity of a pivotal trial supporting rivaroxaban's approval, citing concerns over a faulty blood clotting test device. Doctors and scientists are now calling for an independent investigation and access to original trial data to clarify the drug's benefits and harms.
A study published in the Journal of Medical Entomology found that the OFF! Clip-On repellent device is highly effective against hungry Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. The device causes high mosquito mortality and knockdown rates, making it a promising tool for preventing Zika bites.
Researchers developed a new biosensor test system based on magnetic nanoparticles to measure protein concentrations in various samples. The system provides high sensitivity and accuracy, exceeding laboratory methods, and can detect proteins even in opaque liquids.
Research suggests that adding a simple endorsement from a patient's GP practice to the invitation letter could increase the number of people taking the bowel cancer screening test by up to 40,000 annually. This would lead to an additional 61 cases of bowel cancer and 165 high or medium-risk polyps being detected each year.
Researchers found that individuals with higher MET scores (indicating higher physical fitness) had a 40% lower mortality rate after a first heart attack. The study, published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings, suggests that doctors should recommend exercise programs to patients at risk of cardiovascular disease.
A study of nearly 70,000 patients found that those with higher aerobic fitness before a heart attack are more likely to survive their first heart attack. Fitness levels were associated with improved short-term survival rates after the event.
Researchers validated a two-protein test for predicting spontaneous preterm birth in asymptomatic women, identifying an optimal gestational age window and highly performing proteins. The study showed excellent performance of the novel classifier, with high accuracy rates for predicting preterm delivery before 35 weeks.
Adverse Outcome Pathways (AOPs) are a framework for improving chemical hazard assessment by prioritizing modern test methods that reduce animal use. Scientists can identify specific Key Events that lead to adverse outcomes, allowing them to choose the most needed tests.
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison discovered that people with excellent 3D vision are more susceptible to motion sickness while using virtual reality displays. The study found that these individuals are also better at judging the direction of moving objects, which may contribute to their discomfort.
A study of nearly 1 million Ontario adults found that preoperative laboratory tests were conducted prior to approximately 30% of low-risk surgical procedures. The rate of these tests varied significantly among institutions, with some performing them in over 98% of cases and others in none.
A Canadian study shows that pharmacists can detect chronic kidney disease (CKD) in a significant proportion of high-risk patients. Using an online decision-making tool, pharmacists screened 720 patients and found CKD in 39%, including previously unrecognized cases.
Researchers found that bed bugs that fed after being treated with insecticides had significantly lower mortality rates than those that didn't. The study suggests that feeding stimulates detoxification enzymes, leading to increased resistance and survival.
A new device to treat postpartum hemorrhage has received funding, with the goal of saving thousands of lives. The PPH Butterfly device can both stop bleeding immediately and help diagnose its source.
Researchers developed a system using Wi-Fi and Bluetooth signals to collect accurate travel data, matching origin and destination information collected by riders. The technology has the potential to improve equity in transit systems, particularly for less-privileged neighborhoods.
A new study developed a comparable test of learning and memory for humans as the one used in mice, addressing limitations in translating results from animals to humans. The virtual version of the Morris water maze was found to show significant impairments in both Alzheimer's disease model mice and early-stage AD patients.
Researchers at KU Leuven have fine-tuned a test for ultrasound diagnosis of ovarian tumours, improving accuracy and providing exact risk assessments. The new test has been analysed in 5,000 patient cases from 22 countries and is now ready for clinical use.
Researchers at the University of Hawaii developed innovative experiments to test first-aid measures for box jellyfish stings, finding that tried-and-true methods like vinegar and hot water immersion are effective in reducing venom toxicity. The study also introduced a new therapeutic called Sting No MoreTM, which inhibits venom directly.
Patients undergoing urologic surgery who are frail have a 1.7-times higher risk of complications. Frailty is an independent predictor of postoperative complications across most procedures.
A new app called QUiPP was tested in high-risk women to predict preterm birth risk. The app performed well as a predictive tool, outperforming individual factors like cervical length and fetal fibronectin levels.
The Endocrine Society recommends treating severe primary adrenal insufficiency symptoms immediately, even if a diagnosis is not confirmed. Patients should undergo diagnostic testing to rule out the condition and receive glucocorticoid replacement therapy to maintain cortisol levels.
Researchers discovered a new type of antidepressant that acts quickly in mice, unlike current treatments which take weeks or months. The compound CGP3466B targets a new network of proteins and has fewer side effects than existing medications.
Researchers developed a saliva-based test detecting methanol, ethanol, ethylene glycol, propan 1,3 glycol and γ-hydroxybutyric acid. The test uses gas chromatography-differential mobility spectrometry for accurate detection of toxic levels in saliva samples.
A device developed by UVA researchers aims to automate blood-sugar levels in people with type 1 diabetes through two clinical trials, which could lead to FDA approval if successful. The artificial pancreas will be tested at nine locations worldwide, including Europe.
A study published in JNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that virtual colonoscopy had higher detection rates than traditional methods like FIT and OC. The researchers concluded that combination of lower attendance and higher detection rate makes CTC a key factor for optimization of its role in population screening.
Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital re-evaluate guidelines for testing and treating toenail fungus, finding that confirmatory testing may no longer be necessary for certain therapies. The study suggests that blanket recommendations should be replaced with tailored recommendations based on specific treatments.
A study suggests that treating all suspected cases of nail fungus with oral terbinafine is more cost-effective than performing confirmatory diagnostic tests beforehand. However, confirmatory testing before treatment with the expensive topical medicine efinaconazole resulted in reduced costs and overall savings.
Researchers developed a microfluidic biochip to count red and white blood cells, and platelets from just 11 microliters of blood. The biosensor takes under 20 minutes to measure and has the potential to improve patient care in low-resource settings.
Scientists have developed a rapid diagnostic test to combat Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT), a deadly sleeping sickness. The test requires a pin-prick blood sample and is more heat-stable and user-friendly than existing methods.
Researchers have developed a new diagnostic method for a deadly fungal lung infection in leukemia patients, offering improved early detection and treatment options. The breakthrough uses distinct test results to identify the infectious mold, potentially refining diagnostics and improving survival rates.