Research on the tests that detect and monitor disease. Covers blood tests, cancer monitoring, emergency diagnostics, and new patent-pending assays.
Canada has awarded $1.2 million in grants to 11 new global health innovations in La Francophonie member states, aiming to address pressing health challenges such as malaria, malnutrition and sanitation. The projects focus on improving maternal, newborn and child health, with a particular emphasis on low- and middle-income countries.
A new study by the University of Michigan found that more than half of seniors with signs of dementia haven't received a medical evaluation. The study suggests that as many as 1.8 million Americans over 70 with dementia are not being evaluated for cognitive symptoms, which can lead to modifiable causes of thinking or memory impairment.
A new measuring system has been developed to objectively assess the fatigue level of physicians through their eye movement, specifically the speed of saccadic movements. This study found that the speed of saccadic movements effectively diminished after long hours, while subjective fatigue perception increased.
A PhD student at Brunel University London created a low-cost inverted microscope by adapting a cheap instrument to measure cell motility and study the immune system of snails. The instrument, costing around £160, is significantly cheaper than high-quality equipment that can stretch to hundreds of thousands of pounds.
Researchers developed a new biomarker called SDMA that can identify chronic kidney disease in cats earlier than existing tests. Special diets have been shown to slow the progression of this disease once identified, and may help extend the lives of affected cats.
Researchers have developed a fast and low-cost method to create flexible electronic sensors on paper using silver nanowire ink. The new technology has the potential to make medical tools more accessible and affordable.
Researchers have identified key components in oats that trigger an immune response in some people with coeliac disease, potentially leading to better tests and new treatments.
Men with early atherosclerotic plaque development and arterial stiffness are more likely to develop erectile dysfunction. Researchers found that coronary artery calcium scores were the strongest association to erectile dysfunction, followed by carotid intima-media thickness.
A new study found that offering a $50 cash reward through a lottery-style incentive increased the completion rate of stool tests for colon cancer screening among veterans. The test helps detect early signs of abnormal growths or cancer in the colon and is recommended annually for people over 50.
Researchers found that smartphone apps designed for weight loss were unlikely to produce substantial weight loss in obese patients, highlighting the need for more engaging and time-efficient tools. Meanwhile, a study showed that offering a one-in-ten chance of winning $50 increased colon cancer screening rates by 20% compared to other ...
Researchers found that oxytocin facilitates extinction of conditioned fear in humans by reducing activity in the amygdala and increasing stimulation in fear-inhibiting regions. This basic research could lead to new treatments for anxiety disorders.
A low-cost electronic tongue has been developed to detect various substances in samples, including food, water, and blood, enabling accurate quality checks and monitoring for pollutants. The device's precision and affordability make it suitable for applications in medical diagnostics, pharmaceutical testing, and environmental monitoring.
A study published in Optometry and Vision Science found that preschoolers' ability to change focus is lower than subjective tests suggest. The test results showed a significant difference between the objective and subjective measures of accommodation amplitude in young children, with the former being about half of the latter.
A new study found that younger postmenopausal women with normal bone density are at a very low risk of fractures. Without osteoporosis, it took an average of 11 years for just 1% to sustain a vertebral fracture and 3% to sustain a major osteoporotic fracture.
According to a randomized trial, nurse navigators can aid in colon cancer screening follow-up by increasing follow-up rates exceeding 92 percent. The study, led by Beverly B. Green, MD, MPH, found that combining a systems approach with nurse navigation resulted in improved follow-up rates.
A new study from the University of Kansas found that neighborhoods that encourage walking for leisure and transportation are associated with improved physical health and cognition in older adults. The research suggests that easy-to-walk communities can help stave off cognitive decline, even in individuals with mild Alzheimer's disease.
According to two studies, 94% of patients who believed they had a penicillin allergy actually tested negative. Consulting an allergist and conducting skin testing can help determine if alternative treatment is necessary before surgery. This can significantly lower prescription costs by reducing the use of high-cost antibiotics.
A Tel Aviv University study found that medical clowns significantly decrease anxiety and pain levels in children undergoing skin-prick testing. The intervention also reduced parents' anxiety before and after the test.
Researchers, led by Bart De Strooper, have found that failed Alzheimer's tests can teach valuable lessons for future research. Studies on γ-secretases and Aβ-peptides may still hold promise in treating the disease, but more fundamental research is needed to bridge the current knowledge gap.
A study found that Google glasses created partial peripheral vision obstruction in participants, inducing scotomas and impairing daily functions. The authors suggest additional research is needed to understand the effects of these devices on visual function.
A new study using forensic DNA tests successfully identified the species of venomous snakes that bit people 100% of the time. The test has the potential to improve care for patients affected by deadly snakebites in countries where this is a major health risk.
Researchers have developed a new test that can analyze thousands of FDA-approved drugs to find effective treatments for Lyme disease. The test, called the SYBR Green I/PI assay, enables the measurement of bacterial viability after drug treatment, making it more accurate and efficient than existing methods.
A new test accelerates global progress toward eliminating onchocerciasis, the leading cause of preventable blindness in Africa. The SD BIOLINE Onchocerciasis IgG4 rapid test is faster and easier to use than current options, providing results within 20 minutes.
Researchers at the University of Montreal are exploring virtual reality as a tool to better gauge sex offenders' reactions and assess therapeutic progress. By testing virtual reality protocols, they aim to validate theories explaining why offenders act on their impulses.
Researchers are developing new tests to track changes in cognitive functioning of people with intellectual disabilities, including those with Fragile X and Down syndromes. The tests will assess processing speed, memory, attention, and language skills.
Researchers found that a blood sugar level of ≥135 mg/dL is the optimal first step cutoff for additional screening in women carrying twins, yielding 100% sensitivity with a 28.6% test positive rate. This cutoff may decrease cost and anxiety without compromising treatment effectiveness.
Researchers at Indiana University have found that a panel of microRNAs in plasma can accurately diagnose pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, the most common type of pancreatic malignancy. The discovery could lead to a blood test for early detection and potentially improve treatment outcomes.
A study by Northwestern University found that influential colleagues can boost the adoption of new treatments in doctors, with a sweet spot of reminders every five to seven days. The research aimed to accelerate physicians' adoption of new treatments and tests, which can take up to 17 years.
Researchers at UBC have developed a novel method to test for vitamin B12 deficiency, which can be done with just one drop of blood. The new method is sensitive enough to detect B12 levels in newborn babies and large populations, offering a convenient alternative to traditional blood tests.
Research at Brown University found a significant association between self-reported dispositional mindfulness and improved cardiovascular health, including lower BMI, physical activity, and fasting glucose. The study suggests that mindfulness training may be effective in increasing cardiovascular health indicators.
A new skin patch has successfully detected malaria proteins in live mice, paving the way for a less painful and more accessible diagnostic method. The patch, designed by Simon R. Corrie's team, captures multiple biomarkers for diseases like malaria, which could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment.
Scientists have identified two promising candidates for blood-borne biomarkers that could lead to a simple screening test. Abnormal DNA methylation patterns and microRNAs show promise in detecting colorectal cancer.
A new three-minute diagnostic assessment, 3D-CAM, detects delirium with greater-than-90-percent specificity and sensitivity, particularly in patients with dementia. The test has the potential to significantly improve detection of this common and morbid condition in vulnerable older hospital patients.
A simple test called transcutaneous oximetry may predict which patients are most likely to experience wound-healing complications after surgery. Patients with lower oxygen levels before surgery were more likely to develop complications, highlighting the potential tool as a means of taking extra precautions.
Researchers developed a new test called ADNEX to accurately diagnose ovarian tumours and choose the most appropriate treatment. The test uses clinical information, tumour marker blood tests, and ultrasound scan features to discriminate between benign and malignant tumours with high accuracy.
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that medical residents' knowledge of High Value Care is essential for patient outcomes. The study used the IM-ITE exam and a hospital care intensity index to assess resident knowledge, revealing that conservatively managing patients was a key competency.
A $6.2 million grant will fund the Hepatitis C Community Alliance to Test and Treat (HepCCATT) program to build Chicago's capacity to test for and cure HCV infections. The initiative aims to screen 18,500 people annually and treat 2,500, with a focus on underserved communities.
The Endocrine Society advises against testosterone therapy in healthy women, citing unknown long-term risks and limited benefits. Testosterone therapy may improve sexual function in women with Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder, but more research is needed to determine its safety and effectiveness.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that older adults who failed a simple smelling test were more likely to die within five years. The researchers found that olfactory dysfunction was a stronger predictor of mortality than chronic diseases like heart failure and cancer.
A nearly 40-year-long study found that middle-aged women experiencing anxiety, jealousy, and moodiness are at a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Women who scored highest on neuroticism tests had double the risk of dementia, with those who were both easily distressed and withdrawn having the highest risk.
Commentaries in Annals of Internal Medicine argue that Proposition 46's mandatory physician drug testing could deter help-seeking and reporting, potentially harming patients. The authors instead advocate for addressing physician impairment through more nuanced solutions.
A study by MIT professor Antoinette Schoar found that strong client-banker relationships reduce loan delinquencies and defaults. When loan officers leave, good-standing clients increase their probability of becoming delinquent on loans by almost 22 percent.
A survey of 895 doctors in Europe, South America, and Asia revealed that over three-quarters of oncology specialists believe their patients are not well-informed about treatment options. The majority (90%) use biomarker testing to choose treatments, but many identify cost or lack of reimbursement as key barriers.
Textile scientist Rachel McQueen's research found that antimicrobial fabrics were less effective at preventing bacteria and odours when tested on humans compared to lab experiments. The silver-chloride titanium dioxide compound, marketed for its ability to prevent odour, failed to eliminate bacteria in human testing.
A new study by University at Buffalo confirms that COPD patients breathe easier and report improved health status when using the Lung Flute, a hand-held respiratory device. The six-month study shows significant improvements in symptoms and quality of life.
The UW-Madison team is creating a human tissue chip technology to classify compounds as dangerous or not dangerous. The technology has shown 100% accuracy in predicting toxic responses with early results on a 2-D system with 45 known toxins.
Researchers at University of North Carolina Health Care developed a blood test that identifies individuals at high risk for developing psychosis. The test measures immune and hormonal system imbalances, as well as oxidative stress, and shows promise in predicting the development of severe mental disorders like schizophrenia.
A new study led by Henry Ford researchers found that guidelines recommending against routine prostate cancer screening in elderly men have had little effect. The study analyzed data from the 2012 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System and found significant variability in PSA screening rates across states and regions.
Researchers studied astronauts' movements in low gravity and found that they could maintain higher speeds while walking on the moon. The team used NASA's DC-9 aircraft to simulate lunar gravity and tested the speed at which walkers transitioned from a walk to a run, discovering an average speed of 1.4m/s, exceeding previous estimates.
Researchers found that 28% of medical orders were rated as defensive and cost $1,695 per patient. The study suggests that only a small portion of medical costs might be reduced by tort reform.
A simple, disposable testing device analyzes a single droplet of blood to diagnose anemia, with results available in about 60 seconds. The device has shown promising sensitivity and specificity compared to conventional hematology analyzers.
A $2 million NIH grant will support a five-year study on the effects of malpractice risk and financial incentives on cardiac testing. The researcher aims to explore three motivations for testing: patient benefit, financial incentives, and malpractice liability.
Researchers developed a new test to assess vestibular ocular system, which is predictive of longer outcomes from sports-related concussions. The Vestibular/Ocular Motor Screening (VOMS) was shown to be 90% accurate in identifying patients with concussion, providing a more comprehensive assessment.
Researchers have discovered a six-fold higher risk of developing heart failure among people with diabetes who appear healthy. A highly sensitive test found elevated troponin levels indicating microscopic heart muscle damage, unrelated to high cholesterol.
A team of researchers at the University of Cincinnati is working on a potential cure for food allergies by using a laboratory-grown monoclonal antibody to rapidly desensitize patients. The therapy has shown promise in mice and aims to suppress multiple types of allergies, including skin allergies and asthma, quickly and safely.
Researchers discovered that patients with lung cancer have a higher breath temperature than those without. The study also identified a cut-off value in temperature measurement to accurately diagnose lung cancer.
A study found that tear gas exposure can lead to respiratory symptoms such as coughing, chest pain, and phlegm production in protesters, with the effects lasting up to two weeks. Researchers also discovered that people living near protest areas were exposed to harmful lung health effects from tear gas use.
A new lab test, Carba NP, has been developed to detect carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) in just 2.5 hours, with a specificity of 100%. The test is highly sensitive and specific for detecting carbapenemase production, making it a crucial tool for preventing the spread of CRE.
A new test for sickle cell disease can identify the condition in just 12 minutes and costs as little as 50 cents, offering hope for rural clinics around the globe. The test is based on separating cells by density using polymers and water, making it simple and low-cost to run.
The BiliCam app uses a smartphone's camera and flash to take a picture of a baby's belly, which is then analyzed by machine-learning algorithms to detect bilirubin levels. This non-invasive tool could replace current screening methods, especially in resource-poor areas where access to medical care is limited.