Articles tagged with Medical Tests
The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) has developed the world's first cruelty-free insulin assay, a significant improvement over existing methods that rely on animal testing. The new test kit uses synthetic replacement for fetal calf serum and is now commercially available.
A study of 93 Michigan State University undergraduates found that those who perform well under high-pressure conditions tend to do poorly in standardized tests. The researchers argue that this suggests that high-stakes tests may not be effective predictors of future academic success.
Researchers at Ohio State University found that pre-exam stress hinders students' ability to solve complex problems. After an exam, however, stress levels dropped, allowing for improved performance on word and shape tests.
The study reveals that obese individuals have low non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT), a biological need to sit more, which is linked to brain chemical differences. Encouraging NEAT-seeking behaviors can help obese patients overcome this defect and achieve weight loss.
Researchers at Georgia Tech and MUSC developed a novel mathematical model that accurately predicted the behavior of a key signaling pathway in yeast. The model was tested experimentally and showed promising results, with predictions validated in all qualitative scenarios.
A recent study suggests that whole-body CT screening for cancer and other diseases is not a cost-effective use of healthcare funding. The procedure's estimated $2,513 cost per patient yields only minimal gains in life expectancy, making it more expensive than many other interventions.
Current FOBT screening recommendations are being reexamined due to low test accuracy and non-compliance. A study of 3,121 people found that single office-based FOBT tests missed advanced precancerous lesions 95% of the time.
Fewer than half of patients had received at least one screening test more than six months prior to diagnosis. Patients with a history of screening had earlier stage and presumably more treatable disease, highlighting the underuse of colorectal procedures in clinical practice.
Alcohol consumption was a significant risk factor in fatal plane crashes, with 52% occurring at night and 64% in worsening weather. Researchers hope to design programs similar to those combating drunk-driving to lower accident rates.
Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center have developed a simple urine test to detect preeclampsia risk in pregnant women. Urinary PIGF levels drop prior to preeclampsia symptoms, predicting which women will develop the condition.
A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association finds that women with low levels of placental growth factor (PlGF) in their urine are highly likely to develop preeclampsia. Researchers plan to refine this finding into a clinical test to screen for high-risk pregnancies.
A new test for tinnitus evaluates loudness and pitch using an automated procedure. Veterans are found to be more independent in daily activities and less physically disabled than their peers residing in community nursing homes, suggesting the impact of extensive rehabilitation services available to veterans.
The Life Sciences Research Office has established scientific criteria to assess the impact of non-tobacco additives on cigarette smokers. The criteria focus on identifying potential risks and determining safe levels of additives, while considering inhalation testing within a smoke matrix.
A new stool DNA test has been found to detect a significant proportion of colorectal cancers, potentially overcoming barriers to screening among unwilling individuals. The test, which analyzes tumor-specific DNA, detected 52% of cancers in average-risk asymptomatic individuals.
Researchers tested devices outside of the body and found no interference, but warn that technology advances require continual testing for clinical safety.
The UCSB team has developed RNA grids with finite size and various patterns using atomic force microscopy, visualizing beautiful nano-grids and jigsaw puzzle-like structures. The researchers aim to attain total control of matter arrangement at a molecular level for applications in nanotechnology and medical testing.
A study found that only 9% of adults with moderately decreased kidney function reported being told they had weakened or failing kidneys, highlighting a need for increased awareness and diagnosis. The researchers suggest that control of diabetes and hypertension are critical in reducing the rate of progression and complications of chron...
Sandia is testing five innovative arsenic-removal technologies at a geothermal spring in Socorro, New Mexico, as part of the Arsenic Water Technology Partnership. The pilot test aims to develop cost-effective water treatment solutions for small communities impacted by the new EPA standard.
Researchers used reactive hyperemia peripheral arterial tonometry (RH-PAT) to assess coronary endothelial dysfunction in patients. The study found a strong correlation between fingertip test results and coronary endothelial dysfunction, suggesting the fingertip test could be an effective screening tool for early heart disease.
A team of scientists led by Michael Lieber has successfully recreated the mammalian nonhomologous DNA end joining (NHEJ) pathway in a test tube. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new cancer drugs that target this pathway, which is also essential for repairing radiation damage and maintaining immune function.
The article highlights three key findings: depression severity impacts functioning and quality of life more dramatically in elderly patients than other chronic medical conditions. Rural blacks have significantly worse diabetes and hypertension control, while 42% of clinic appointments are no-shows due to issues of disrespect by the hea...
A study found that dental x-rays were as sensitive as questionnaires in identifying women with spinal osteoporosis. Dental x-rays can be used as a first step in determining which women need further BMD testing, especially for those with low response rates to questionnaires.
CT colonography offers improved accuracy and convenience for colorectal cancer screening, but challenges remain in standardization, patient preparation, and interpretation of results. Standardization and training are necessary for widespread adoption.
A study estimates that 41 million Americans are eligible for colorectal cancer screening, but only a fraction have received it. The capacity for screening tests like flexible sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy is limited, with colonoscopies being the most expensive option.
A CT scan has identified air trapping as the cause of a puzzling cough among World Trade Center rescue workers. The test, which measures lung airways, reveals abnormalities not detected by standard pulmonary function tests.
A University of Edinburgh health study found that people with previously undiagnosed diabetes are at a similar increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease as those with known diabetes. The researchers suggest using simple fasting blood sugar tests to identify individuals at high risk of heart disease and stroke.
Elevated Lp-PLA2 levels are associated with a significantly increased risk of ischemic stroke, even after accounting for traditional cardiovascular risk factors. The enzyme's potential as an independent diagnostic measure is being evaluated.
A study found that 83% of physicians reported delays in reviewing test results, which can jeopardize patient safety and satisfaction. Physicians also identified tools to help manage test results, such as generating result letters and tracking test orders.
A phase I/II study demonstrates the bioartificial kidney's safety and effectiveness in treating acute renal failure, with six patients surviving over 30 days after treatment. The device uses human adult progenitor/stem cells to filter blood and regulate immune system molecules.
A study published in the British Journal of Psychiatry found that electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) improves mood, quality of life, and activities of daily living in patients with major depression. Sixty-six percent of patients showed significant improvement after ECT treatment.
A new study from Saint Louis University has found that a standard test for vitamin B12 deficiency may be too insensitive, leading to potential misdiagnosis. The research urges doctors to also test for levels of methylmalonic acid in patients suspected of having the deficiency, which can easily be reversed with treatment.
A study found that lung function has a natural rhythm that affects energy levels and best times for exercise and treatments. Patients with respiratory conditions may benefit from adapting therapies to their individual circadian rhythms.
A UCLA study of 22,343 adults aged 50+ in California found that 54% had a recent CRC test, with disparities seen among Latinos, women, and those without insurance or continuity of care. Improving access to screening through policies and education programs can help address these gaps.
Researchers at Ohio State University found that anxiety enhances memory recall but impairs problem-solving skills, particularly those requiring flexible thinking. Stress levels before an exam boost working memory, while stress after the exam improves word and shape tests.
Researchers found that bilateral motor performance improvements were seen in patients with Parkinson's disease, regardless of where the stimulation was applied. The study suggests that unilateral deep brain stimulation could be a more effective and lower-risk treatment option for some patients.
A study from Senegal found that urine-based detection of abnormal methylation of three genes provided a sensitivity of 53% and specificity of over 90% for detecting cervical cancer. This approach could have a huge impact on women in developing countries without access to Pap screening.
Researchers studied 13,000 people for ability to detect deception and found 31 'wizards' who consistently outperform others in spotting lies. They identified key behavioral clues, including micro-expressions and inconsistencies in speech patterns, that can betray a liar.
The Lancet article advocates for randomized criminal-justice trials to improve evidence-based decision-making in the UK. The proposed approach would involve randomizing offenders between drug treatment and testing order, or alternative sentence, to inform judicial decisions.
A study of 563 Chicago-area women found that postmenopausal status is associated with a significant decline in pinch strength and marginally significant decline in grip strength. Physical activity may help stave off these declines, possibly due to its influence on metabolic and neurologic mechanisms.
A study by Dr. Namanjeet Ahluwalia found that iron deficiency in older women can impair immune function, affecting T-cell and granulocyte responses to infection. The study included 72 healthy women over 60 living in rural Pennsylvania counties.
Damage to the parasympathetic nervous system may account for nearly half of symptoms such as gallbladder disease and depression in Gulf War syndrome veterans. The parasympathetic system regulates automatic bodily functions like digestion and sleep, which was found to be impaired in veterans.
Research finds that higher levels of physical exercise, especially walking, are associated with improved cognitive function and reduced cognitive decline in older women. The study, involving 18,766 women aged 70-81, shows a 20% lower risk of cognitive impairment among those who engaged in moderate physical activity.
A recent study published in Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research found that energy drinks like Red Bull do not improve physical performance when consumed with alcohol. The researchers surveyed Brazilian nightclub-goers and found that the combination of energy drinks and alcohol did not reduce depressant effects or increase stim...
A recent study found that people with mild Alzheimer's disease are more likely to make driving errors during a route-following task, including wrong turns and safety errors. However, those familiar with the area drove safely, suggesting that familiar routes may be exempt from restrictions for drivers with early dementia.
A new portable device called the Newton TM has been developed to detect glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness. The device is more accurate than previous models and can be used in various positions, making it ideal for early detection and treatment.
Virtual colonoscopy has shown promise as a colorectal cancer screening option, with limitations in detecting flat polyps and varying results in clinical trials. Further research is needed to determine the optimal size for removing small growths and standardizing test performance.
The study found that approximately 1 in 5 subjects had previously undiagnosed diabetes, while over 1 in 4 had impaired glucose tolerance. Lifestyle changes and medication may help prevent the progression of impaired glucose tolerance to full-blown diabetes and its associated complications.
A study by Daphne Bavelier and her team found that visual information is less effective at holding seven items in short term memory compared to auditory information. However, a new test design revealed that both sight and sound are equally important for cognitive ability.
Researchers found VA patients received standard processes of care more often, including recommended tests and services, and had better diabetes control. The study suggests the VA's national system provides excellent quality care due to its integrated care and tracking mechanisms.
Research found that injured methamphetamine users stayed in hospitals longer and incurred higher costs, compared to those who tested negative. The study, which analyzed records of 212 patients, showed that positive test results were linked to increased hospital admissions, stays, and charges.
Researchers found that a high-fiber diet from fruits and soy foods reduces the incidence of chronic respiratory symptoms, particularly cough with phlegm production. Additionally, brief exposure to multidrug-resistant tuberculosis can lead to infection, as detected by rapid molecular testing in hospital contacts.
A new study using wavefront diagnostic equipment has shown that different types of cataracts produce identifiable results, allowing for accurate measurement of visual errors and improved treatment. This technology can help reduce the number of patients unable to receive early treatment due to inadequate or outdated testing methods.
A new study found that almost 60% of children with asthma during the pre-pubertal period continue to experience wheezing episodes after the onset of puberty. Obesity at age 11 was also associated with a threefold increased risk for persistence of asthma, according to researchers analyzing data from a longitudinal birth cohort.
Early detection of COPD through a simple spirometry test can slow the loss of lung function, improve symptoms and quality of life, and prevent hospitalizations. Smoking cessation is the only known method to alter the loss of lung function seen in this disease.
Researchers are collecting blood samples from hundreds of women to validate the novel approach. The test has received worldwide attention due to its potential for early detection and high survival rates. If successful, it could save thousands of lives annually.
A study of 5,115 young adults found that those who react to psychological stress with spikes in blood pressure are more likely to develop high blood pressure in their 40s. The research suggests that assessing blood pressure changes in response to stress may be a useful tool for determining future risk.
A study found that states with mandated in-person license renewal laws had a lower death rate among drivers aged 85 and older. In-person renewal allowed for medical evaluations, which may lead to decreased fatality rates among this age group.
Researchers found that older adults who pictured testing their blood sugar were 50% more likely to do so regularly compared to those using other memory techniques. The study's findings suggest that imagination may be a powerful and inexpensive technique for improving medication adherence in older adults.
A Stanford study found that a sting-inhibiting cream reduced swelling and discomfort after exposure to jellyfish tentacles. The cream works by repelling water, disrupting communication systems, and mimicking a substance found in the jellyfish bell.
A randomized trial found that direct mailing of fecal occult blood tests increased colorectal cancer screening rates by 16.9% among those who received kits and 23.2% among those with reminders, compared to 1.5% for the control group.