Emergency CT (Computed Tomography) for stomach pain is declining among kids but not adults — who receive more ineffective exams

January 29, 2021 The drop is largely attributed to recent quality improvement efforts from the American Society of Pediatrics and American College of Radiology, including an ultrasound-first strategy for suspected appendicitis.  Given the known risk factors associated with CT — radiation exposure and incidental findings — similar campaigns may be required for adult populations, authors … Read more

MRI scan data predicts preterm infants at risk of developmental brain issues

January 26, 2021 The team detailed its novel software tool that quantifies diffuse white matter abnormality (DWMA) on MRI scans Sept. 28 in Scientific Reports.  It revealed DWMA volume to be an independent predictor of motor development deficits, such as cerebral palsy.  Lead researcher Nehal Parikh, DO, MS, a Neonatologist at Cincinnati Children’s, said the … Read more

Imec and Ghent University tout artificial iris in smart contact lens

January 21, 2021 With partners at the Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Fundación Jiménez Diaz in Madrid, along with the Holst Centre in the Netherlands, Imec and Ghent presented the artificial iris as a device that is tunable through concentric rings on an integrated liquid crystal display (LCD).  The lens is designed with an ultra-low-power design … Read more

FDA lays out 2021 regulatory science areas of focus

January 18, 2021 The Focus Areas of Regulatory Science (FARS) issued on in mid-January 2021 “outlines topics that the FDA has identified as needing continued targeted investment in regulatory science research to facilitate the development of innovative products, provide data and methodology to inform regulatory decision-making and improve guidance to sponsors,” according to FDA Chief … Read more

Scientists develop breakthrough COVID-19 antibody test

January 15, 2021 DENVER — Scientists at the University of Denver’s (DU) Knoebel Institute for Healthy Aging, in collaboration with two other research entities, have developed and tested a new and highly sensitive antibody test for COVID-19 that is so accurate, it can predict if a patient will experience “mild” COVID symptoms verses more “severe” … Read more

Medtech takes a stand on D.C. rioting at United States Capitol

January 12, 2021 The National Manufacturers Association called for Vice President Mike Pence to invoke the 25th Amendment to remove Trump from office. The Business Roundtable tweeted a call for an end to the violence and for a peaceful transition of power to President-elect Joe Biden’s administration. Medtech trade group AdvaMed followed suit, with President … Read more

Simple Invention Helps You Sober Up by Exhaling Alcohol

January 07, 2021 Usually, toxins like alcohol are largely broken down by the liver.  The liver can take a lot of punishment; however, the rate that it metabolizes alcohol is constant, meaning you cannot speed up the process in times when the amount of alcohol in your body is enough to be fatal or seriously … Read more

FDA Warns Website Operators Illegally Selling Opioids to Consumers

January 05, 2021 The opioids offered for sale include products such as tramadol and oxycodone.  These are prescription drugs that have significant risks of addiction, abuse and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death, and should only be used under the supervision of a licensed health care provider.  These Warning Letters are a continuation … Read more