Millions of Americans are using DNA test kits sold online to research their ancestry, either out of simple curiosity or to find answers about their identity. But some academics warn the craze could reinforce racial stereotypes and divisions. For around $100 and a few drops of saliva, a number of companies offer to decipher the […]
Independence tests should ask more of seniors
UCR psychology researcher says the bar is too low for “functional independence” in older adults, and should be aligned with skills younger adults must conquer. The Activities of Daily Living, or ADL, questionnaire is a standard used by healthcare professionals to decide what services older adults need to remain independent. These activities include eating and […]
Adults who were breastfed as babies earn more and score higher in memory tests as adults
A research study from Queen’s University Belfast, in collaboration with University College Dublin, University College London and Cass Business School, has found that babies who were breastfed went on to have a higher household income and scored higher on memory tests in adulthood, in comparison to babies who were not. The study examined whether there […]
Assay combines microfluidics and next-generation sequencing to reveal more mutations than existing tests
A new diagnostic test developed at A*STAR is helping researchers around the world identify gene mutations that put people at risk of severe eczema and other chronic skin diseases. The skin’s outer layer forms a protective barrier against the external environment, thanks to a gene called FLG. People lacking a functional copy of this gene, […]
New technology will fight infectious diseases by outing fake diagnostic tests
Some shady people are profiting from making fake tests to diagnose disease like malaria or HIV. Now new technology is providing a level of protection. Infectious diseases are still a big problem in some parts of the world. A recent study estimated that, in 2016, more than 8 million people died because of infectious diseases […]
Mammography use tied to other preventive tests in older women
(HealthDay)—Women enrolled in Medicare who undergo screening mammography seem to have increased awareness and use of other preventive screening measures, according to a study published online June 5 in Radiology. Stella K. Kang, M.D., from New York University in New York City, and colleagues used Medicare claims (2010 to 2014) to retrospectively assess whether there […]