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What is the main advantage of using nanomaterials in electrochemical sensors for medical diagnostics?
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3. They enhance sensitivity and surface area for detection |
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Nanomaterials have a very high surface-to-volume ratio, which means they provide more surface area for chemical reactions or for binding with biomolecules such as glucose, DNA, proteins, or antigens used in disease diagnostics.
Additionally, certain nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs), nanowires, or metallic nanoparticles (e.g., gold or silver) possess excellent electrical conductivity. This enhances the electrical signals generated upon binding with target substances, allowing for the detection of ultra low concentrations.
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Electrochemical sensing theory: สัญญาณไฟฟ้าที่เกิดจากปฏิกิริยาเคมีบนผิวเซ็นเซอร์สามารถแปรผันตามปริมาณสารที่ต้องการตรวจจับ
Nanotechnology in biosensors: นาโนวัสดุทำหน้าที่เพิ่มพื้นที่ปฏิกิริยาและปรับปรุงการถ่ายเทอิเล็กตรอน (electron transfer)
Reference research:
Wang, J. (2005). Carbon-nanotube based electrochemical biosensors: A review. Electroanalysis.
Katz, E., & Willner, I. (2004). Nanomaterials-based biosensors. ChemPhysChem.
Wang, J. (2005). Carbon-nanotube based electrochemical biosensors: A review. Electroanalysis.
Katz, E., & Willner, I. (2004). Nanomaterials-based biosensors. ChemPhysChem.
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Which of the following nanomaterials is frequently mentioned as enhancing sensor conductivity?
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2. Gold nanoparticles |
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Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are widely used in electrochemical sensors because of their excellent electrical conductivity, biocompatibility, and high surface to volume ratio. These properties enhance electron transfer between the electrode surface and the target analyte, thereby improving sensor sensitivity and signal stability.
Gold nanoparticles also provide a favorable platform for immobilizing biomolecules (such as antibodies or enzymes) without significantly affecting their activity, which is essential for biosensing applications.
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Electron transfer theory in sensors: The efficiency of an electrochemical sensor often depends on how well electrons can move between the sensing interface and the electrode. Conductive nanomaterials like gold nanoparticles act as "bridges" to facilitate this process.
Surface functionalization theory: AuNPs can be easily modified with thiol (-SH) groups, allowing for targeted biomolecule attachment,
a critical aspect in biosensor development.
References:
Dykman, L. A., & Khlebtsov, N. G. (2012). Gold nanoparticles in biomedical applications: recent advances and perspectives. Chemical Society Reviews.
Pumera, M. (2007). Nanomaterials for electrochemical sensing and biosensing. TrAC Trends in Analytical Chemistry.
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Why are carbon-based nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs) useful in electrochemical sensors?
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3. They improve electron transfer and mechanical strength |
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Carbon-based nanomaterials like carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are highly valuable in electrochemical sensors because of two main features:
Excellent electrical conductivity – CNTs facilitate fast electron transfer between the sensor surface and the analyte, which significantly improves the sensitivity and response time of the sensor.
Superior mechanical strength Their high tensile strength and structural integrity help increase the sensor's durability and stability over repeated use or in harsh conditions (e.g., body fluids).
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Electron Transfer Theory (Marcus Theory):
The efficiency of electrochemical sensors is strongly influenced by how easily electrons can move from the sensing element to the electrode. CNTs, due to their delocalized π-electron system, provide an ideal conductive path.
Mechanical Reinforcement Theory:
Sensors benefit from nanomaterials like CNTs because of their Young’s modulus (~1 TPa) and high aspect ratio, which enhance the mechanical properties of the sensor substrate.
References:
Wang, J. (2005). Carbon-nanotube based electrochemical biosensors: A review. Electroanalysis.
Liu, Y., Yu, D., Zeng, C., Miao, Z., & Dai, L. (2010). Biocompatible graphene oxide–based glucose biosensors. Langmuir.
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What is one challenge in integrating nanotechnology with electrochemical sensors for medical use?
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3. Issues in reproducibility and standardization |
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While nanotechnology significantly enhances the performance of electrochemical sensors by increasing sensitivity, selectivity, and miniaturization a major challenge is achieving reproducibility and standardization in both fabrication and performance.
Reproducibility issues: The properties of nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene, or metal nanoparticles can vary from batch to batch due to slight changes in synthesis conditions. These variations affect the sensor's electrochemical behavior, making it hard to produce identical sensors with consistent performance.
Lack of standardization: There are no universally accepted standards for characterizing and integrating nanomaterials in medical sensors making it difficult to compare results across different studies or manufacturers.
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Reproducibility in analytical chemistry: Reliable medical diagnostics require high reproducibility to ensure consistent results across patients and time.
Nanomaterial variability: Due to their nanoscale nature, even slight differences in particle size, surface chemistry, or morphology can drastically alter electrochemical performance.
Key References:
Pumera, M. (2009). The electrochemistry of carbon nanotubes: fundamentals and applications. Chemical Record.
Vashist, S. K. et al. (2011). Nanotechnology-based biosensors and diagnostics: technology push versus industrial/healthcare requirements. The Analyst.
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5 |
Which technique is commonly used to enhance the signal in nanotechnology-based electrochemical sensors?
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2. Enzyme labeling |
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Enzyme labeling is a widely used technique to amplify the electrochemical signal in nanotechnology-based sensors. In this method, enzymes such as horseradish peroxidase (HRP) or alkaline phosphatase (ALP) are attached (labeled) to a biological recognition element like an antibody, aptamer, or DNA strand.
When the target analyte binds to the recognition element, the enzyme catalyzes a redox reaction, producing electroactive species. These species generate a measurable electrical signal that is proportional to the analyte concentration. This approach significantly enhances sensitivity, allowing detection of even trace level biomarkers in clinical diagnostics.
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Signal amplification theory in biosensing:
Enzymes act as biocatalysts that convert multiple substrate molecules into product, leading to signal amplification from a single binding event. This improves the limit of detection (LOD) of the sensor.
Electrochemical reaction mechanism:
The redox reaction catalyzed by the enzyme produces or consumes electrons, which can be measured as current (in amperometry), voltage (in potentiometry), or charge (in coulometry).
Key References:
Wang, J. (2006). Electrochemical biosensors: Towards point-of-care cancer diagnostics. Biosensors and Bioelectronics.
Liu, G. et al. (2008). Signal amplification in biosensors via enzyme-functionalized nanostructures. Analytical Chemistry.
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Why is biocompatibility crucial in designing electrochemical sensors for medical diagnostics?
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2. To prevent rejection or toxicity in biological systems |
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Biocompatibility refers to the ability of a material or device to perform its function without eliciting any harmful response from the body. In the context of electrochemical sensors for medical diagnostics, especially those used in direct contact with biological tissues (e.g., implanted sensors, wearable devices, or those analyzing blood/saliva), biocompatibility is essential for safe and effective function.
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Host material interaction theory:
When a sensor is introduced into a biological environment, it interacts with proteins, cells, and immune cells. A biocompatible material should minimize adverse immune reactions and maintain sensor function over time.
Toxicology & bio interface engineering:
Materials used in sensors must be evaluated for cytotoxicity, hemocompatibility, and tissue compatibility, particularly in long-term or in vivo applications.
Key References:
Ratner, B. D., Hoffman, A. S., Schoen, F. J., & Lemons, J. E. (2004). Biomaterials Science: An Introduction to Materials in Medicine.
Wang, J. (2006). Electrochemical biosensors: Towards point-of-care cancer diagnostics. Biosensors and Bioelectronics.
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7 |
How do label-free electrochemical sensors differ from labeled ones?
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3. They do not rely on additional reagents or markers |
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Label free electrochemical sensors detect target molecules directly, without the need for external labeling agents such as enzymes, fluorescent dyes, or nanoparticles. They rely on intrinsic changes in electrical properties (e.g., current, potential, impedance) caused by the interaction between the analyte and the sensor surface.
By contrast, labeled sensors require additional reagents or markers like enzyme tags or fluorescent labels that react with the analyte to produce a signal. While labeled methods can offer high sensitivity, they often involve multiple steps, such as sample labeling, incubation, and washing.
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Direct signal transduction:
In label free systems, the analyte binding event alters the electrical signal (e.g., impedance, capacitance, current) that can be directly measured.
Impedance spectroscopy & field effect detection:
Techniques like electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and field effect transistor (FET)-based sensors are often label free and detect changes in surface charge or resistance upon biomolecular binding.
Key References:
Sassolas, A., Leca-Bouvier, B. D., & Blum, L. J. (2009). Label-free biosensors and their applications in diagnostics. Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry.
Pumera, M. (2007). Nanomaterials-based electrochemical biosensors for label-free detection. TrAC Trends in Analytical Chemistry.
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What is one promising application of nanotech-based electrochemical sensors?
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2. Early detection of disease biomarkers |
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Nanotechnology based electrochemical sensors are highly promising for the early detection of disease biomarkers because they offer:
High sensitivity and specificity: Nanomaterials (like gold nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes) increase the sensor’s surface area and facilitate electron transfer, enabling detection of very low concentrations of biomarkers such as proteins, nucleic acids, or metabolites.
Rapid and real time monitoring: These sensors can quickly detect changes in biomarker levels, which is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.
Miniaturization and portability: Nanotech sensors can be integrated into portable devices for point of care testing, improving access to healthcare diagnostics outside traditional labs.
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Electrochemical biosensing principle: Binding of biomarkers to a recognition element (e.g., antibody or aptamer) causes measurable electrochemical changes.
Nanomaterial enhanced sensitivity: The large surface to volume ratio and catalytic properties of nanomaterials amplify the detection signal.
Key References:
Wang, J. (2006). Electrochemical biosensors: Towards point-of-care cancer diagnostics. Biosensors and Bioelectronics.
Pumera, M. (2011). Nanomaterials for electrochemical sensing. Chemical Society Reviews.
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9 |
Which of the following factors most directly affects the sensor's detection limit?
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2. Nanomaterial surface-to-volume ratio |
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The detection limit of an electrochemical sensor is largely determined by its ability to detect very small concentrations of analytes.
A higher surface to volume ratio in nanomaterials means:
There are more active sites available for interaction with the target molecules, improving the sensor’s ability to capture and detect analytes at low concentrations.
Nanomaterials such as nanowires, nanotubes, and nanoparticles provide a large reactive surface that enhances sensitivity and lowers the detection limit by increasing the probability of analyte adsorption and electron exchange at the electrode interface.
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Surface adsorption and reaction kinetics:
The rate of analyte adsorption on the sensor surface is proportional to the available surface area. More surface area enhances analyte accumulation, improving signal strength and lowering the detection limit.
Surface adsorption and reaction kinetics:
The rate of analyte adsorption on the sensor surface is proportional to the available surface area. More surface area enhances analyte accumulation, improving signal strength and lowering the detection limit.
Signal to noise ratio improvement:
Increasing the active surface area increases the electrochemical signal magnitude relative to background noise, enhancing detection accuracy at low analyte levels.
Key References:
Turner, A. P. F. (2013). Biosensors: Fundamentals and Applications. Oxford University Press.
Narayan, R. (2012). Nanotechnology and Biosensors: Applications. CRC Press.
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10 |
What is one of the primary goals of using digital sensing technologies in cancer care?
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3. Enable earlier and more personalized diagnosis |
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Digital sensing technologies in cancer care aim to improve patient outcomes by providing earlier detection of cancer related biomarkers and enabling personalized diagnosis tailored to each patient’s unique disease profile. These technologies use advanced sensors, wearable devices, and data analytics to monitor biological signals continuously and non invasively.
Early diagnosis is crucial for increasing the success rate of treatment and survival.
Personalized diagnosis helps identify specific cancer subtypes or mutations, guiding targeted therapies.
Digital sensors can detect subtle biochemical changes or circulating tumor markers before symptoms become apparent.
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Precision medicine principle:
Using detailed patient data (genomics, proteomics, metabolomics) from sensing technologies to tailor diagnostics and treatments.
Early biomarker detection:
Sensitive digital sensors detect molecular changes at early stages, improving prognosis.
Key References:
Collins, F. S., & Varmus, H. (2015). A new initiative on precision medicine. New England Journal of Medicine.
Wang, J. (2015). Electrochemical biosensors for cancer biomarker detection. Analytical Chemistry.
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11 |
Which type of sensor is often used to monitor physical activity in cancer patients?
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3. Accelerometers |
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Accelerometers are widely used sensors that measure acceleration forces, which correlate with movement and physical activity levels.
In cancer care, monitoring physical activity is important to assess patient health, recovery progress, fatigue levels, and overall quality of life.
Accelerometers are commonly embedded in wearable devices like fitness trackers and smartwatches.
They provide quantitative data on steps, intensity, duration, and patterns of movement.
This data helps clinicians tailor treatment plans and monitor rehabilitation.
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Motion detection principle:
Accelerometers detect linear acceleration along multiple axes (x, y, z), which can be translated into physical activity metrics.
Wearable health monitoring:
Continuous activity monitoring helps in managing cancer-related fatigue and improving patient outcomes.
Key References:
Evenson, K. R., & Terry, J. W. (2009). Assessment of physical activity and sedentary behavior by accelerometry. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise.
Basch, E. et al. (2017). Digital health tools for cancer symptom management. JAMA Oncology.
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Why are patient-reported outcomes important in digital cancer care systems?
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3. They provide subjective data complementing sensor metrics |
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Patient reported outcomes (PROs) capture the patient’s subjective experiences such as symptoms, pain levels, emotional well being, and quality of life, which cannot be fully measured by digital sensors alone.
PROs complement objective data from digital devices (e.g., wearables, biosensors) by providing insight into how patients feel and function.
This holistic approach allows clinicians to better understand treatment effects, side effects, and patient needs.
PROs support personalized care decisions and improve symptom management.
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Complementarity of subjective and objective data:
Objective sensor data quantify physical parameters, while PROs offer qualitative information on patient perception, enabling a fuller clinical picture.
Patient-centered care:
Incorporating PROs promotes engagement and tailors treatments to individual experiences.
Key References:
Basch, E. et al. (2017). Symptom monitoring with patient-reported outcomes during routine cancer treatment: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA.
Deshpande, P. R., & Rajan, S. (2011). Patient-reported outcomes in cancer care. Oncology Reviews.
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What is one major advantage of real-time digital sensing in cancer treatment?
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3. Rapid detection of deterioration in patient condition |
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Real time digital sensing enables continuous monitoring of vital signs, biochemical markers, or symptoms, allowing healthcare providers to quickly detect any worsening or deterioration in a cancer patient’s condition. This immediate feedback can:
Trigger timely clinical interventions to prevent complications.
Improve patient safety by catching adverse events early.
Reduce hospital admissions or emergency visits by proactive management.
This advantage is critical because cancer patients often have fluctuating health statuses that require close observation.
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Continuous monitoring principle:
Digital sensors provide ongoing data streams, allowing detection of subtle physiological changes that precede clinical deterioration.
Early warning systems:
Algorithms analyze sensor data in real time to identify risk patterns, enabling proactive care.
Key References:
Kheterpal, S., et al. (2016). Real-time clinical decision support for early detection of patient deterioration. Critical Care Medicine.
Basch, E., et al. (2017). Symptom monitoring with patient-reported outcomes during routine cancer treatment: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA.
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Which of the following is a key barrier to implementing digital sensing in routine oncology practice?
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3. Limited digital literacy among patients and providers |
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A significant barrier to integrating digital sensing technologies in oncology is the limited digital literacy among both patients and healthcare providers. This can lead to:
Difficulty in operating devices and interpreting data correctly.
Resistance or reluctance to adopt new technologies.
Increased risk of misuse or underutilization of digital tools.
Improving digital literacy is essential to maximize the benefits of digital sensing, ensuring that users can engage effectively with the technology for better patient outcomes.
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Technology acceptance models:
These highlight that user knowledge and comfort with technology strongly influence adoption rates in healthcare.
Health informatics principles:
Training and education reduce barriers to digital health implementation.
Key References:
Gagnon, M. P., et al. (2016). Digital literacy and health technology adoption in cancer care: a systematic review. Journal of Medical Internet Research.
Holden, R. J. (2010). The technology acceptance model and healthcare. Applied Clinical Informatics.
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Which stakeholders are considered central to the adoption of digital cancer care platforms?
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2. Patients and healthcare providers |
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The successful adoption of digital cancer care platforms fundamentally depends on patients and healthcare providers because:
Patients are the end users who interact with the platform to report symptoms, track health data, and adhere to treatment.
Healthcare providers interpret the data, make clinical decisions, and guide patient care using insights from the platform.
Their engagement, acceptance, and trust are critical for effective use and integration of digital tools in cancer care.
Platforms that fail to meet the needs of these stakeholders often face low adoption.
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Stakeholder theory:
Emphasizes the importance of key stakeholders in organizational and technology adoption success.
User centered design:
Solutions must address the needs and preferences of primary users patients and providers—for effective uptake.
Key References:
Davis, F. D. (1989). Perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and user acceptance of information technology. MIS Quarterly.
Greenhalgh, T., et al. (2017). Adoption of digital health innovations in cancer care: a stakeholder analysis. Journal of Medical Internet Research.
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Digital sensing systems collect which combination of data types for cancer care optimization?
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2. Sensor metrics and patient-reported outcomes |
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Digital sensing systems in cancer care typically gather objective sensor metrics (such as vital signs, physical activity, biochemical markers) along with subjective patient-reported outcomes (PROs) (like symptoms, pain, fatigue). This combination allows for a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s health status.
Sensor metrics provide continuous, real time, quantitative data.
Patient reported outcomes capture the patient’s personal experience and quality of life.
Together, these data types enable more precise monitoring, personalized treatment adjustments, and better symptom management.
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Multimodal data integration:
Combining objective and subjective data improves diagnostic accuracy and clinical decision-making.
Patient centered care:
Including PROs emphasizes the patient’s voice alongside clinical data.
Key References:
Basch, E. et al. (2017). Symptom monitoring with patient-reported outcomes during routine cancer treatment: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA.
Piwek, L., et al. (2016). The rise of consumer health wearables: promises and barriers. PLOS Medicine.
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How do digital sensors contribute to improving the quality of life in cancer patients?
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3. By enabling symptom tracking and early intervention |
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Digital sensors help improve cancer patients' quality of life by continuously monitoring symptoms such as pain, fatigue, or physiological changes. This allows healthcare providers to:
Detect worsening symptoms early before they become severe.
Adjust treatments promptly to manage side effects or complications.
Provide timely support, reducing hospital visits and improving comfort.
This proactive approach helps patients maintain better health and wellbeing during treatment.
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Scientific Concepts:
Remote patient monitoring:
Continuous data collection enables early detection of adverse events.
Patient centered care model:
Focuses on responding to patient needs quickly to enhance life quality.
Key References:
Basch, E., et al. (2017). Symptom monitoring with patient-reported outcomes improves overall survival in cancer patients. JAMA.
Kearney, N., et al. (2016). Using mobile health technology to support cancer patients. Supportive Care in Cancer.
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What does the article suggest about the future direction of digital sensing in cancer care?
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3. It holds promise for widespread personalized care |
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Current research and trends indicate that digital sensing technologies in cancer care are evolving toward enabling personalized medicine by:
Continuously monitoring individual patient data in real time.
Tailoring treatments based on unique patient responses.
Facilitating remote care and improving access.
Integrating with AI and big data for predictive analytics.
This future direction supports more precise, patient-centered, and effective cancer management.
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Personalized medicine paradigm:
Using patient specific data to customize healthcare.
Digital health integration:
Combining sensors, data analytics, and patient feedback to optimize treatment plans.
Key References:
Topol, E. (2019). Deep Medicine: How Artificial Intelligence Can Make Healthcare Human Again. Basic Books.
Esteva, A., et al. (2019). A guide to deep learning in healthcare. Nature Medicine.
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Based on the diagram, which of the following would most likely result in a false signal output in an electrochemical sensor for medical diagnostics?
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1. Using a transducer made of non-conductive materials |
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Electorchemical sensors rely on electron flow from a biochemical reaction to an electrode, via a tranducter.The tranducter's role is to convert chemical and biological signals into electrical signals. If the tranducter is made of non-conductive materials electron tranfer will be blocked.
As a result :
The electrochemical signal cannot reach the electrode
The system may output a false signal and no signal at all , even if the biological recognition occurred correctly.
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Electrochemical biosensors typically involve :
Biomolecular recognition = where target molecules bind to bioreceptors
Signal transduction = converting the biochemical event into an electrical signal
Signal measurement = detecting the electrochemical current at the electrode
Key Reference :
Grieshaber, D., MacKenzie, R., Vörös, J., & Reimhult, E. (2008). Electrochemical biosensors – Sensor principles and architectures. Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical, 140(1), 54–64.
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Based on the image, which of the following scenarios best demonstrates the advantage of using emerging digital platforms in cancer diagnostics?
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3. A portable chip-based sensor detects protein biomarkers from a blood sample within minutes |
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Emerging digital platforms in cancer diagnostics such as:
Digital ELISA
Digital SERS (Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy)
Digital Flow Cytometry
offer major advantages like:
High sensitivity for detecting low-abundance biomarkers (proteins, nucleic acids, CTCs, EVs)
Rapid analysis within minutes
Portability, enabling point of care testing
Minimal sample requirement, e.g., a drop of blood
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Digital diagnostics allow for early, non-invasive detection of cancer by identifying molecular signatures (like proteins or DNA) using highly sensitive and compact devices.
These technologies are increasingly used in point of care settings and can dramatically reduce diagnosis time and improve outcomes.
Key references:
Cohen, L., & Walt, D. R. (2017). Single molecule array detection methods.
Zhang, Y., et al. (2020). Digital biosensors for point-of-care diagnostics. Biosensors and Bioelectronics.
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