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Combined online self-management for pain, associated anxiety and depression works

A new study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that online symptom self-management works to decrease pain, anxiety, and depression symptoms. The study also showed that combining online self-management with clinician telecare leads to greater symptom improvement for some individuals.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJul 22, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Enhanced recovery pathway for bariatric operations cuts hospital stays by half

A new bariatric surgery protocol has been implemented to reduce postoperative hospital stays and readmissions. The Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol, which includes early ambulation and liquid administration, as well as targeted pain management, has been shown to reduce hospital stays by half and readmissions by 38%.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·DateJul 22, 2019

Mathematical model explores daily rhythms in pain sensitivity

A computational model simulates how pain is transmitted from a nerve to the spinal cord's dorsal horn, reproducing experimental results on pain sensitivity. The model suggests a potential mechanism for neuropathic pain's flipped sensitivity rhythm: a change from inhibition to excitation in synaptic connections between nerve cells.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJul 11, 2019

Opioid use is reduced in patients treated with NSAIDS

Researchers found that patients treated with ibuprofen and Percocet used less opioids than those prescribed just Percocet after arthroscopic shoulder instability repair. This study suggests a possible reduction in post-operative narcotics distribution, addressing the public health crisis of opioid abuse.

SourceAmerican Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine·DateJul 11, 2019
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Novel therapy for acute migraine shows promise in phase 3 clinical trial

Rimegepant, a novel gepant therapy, demonstrates significant relief from acute migraine pain and associated symptoms in a large-scale clinical trial. The study found that rimegepant effectively blocks the CGRP pathway, providing a new option for people with migraine not helped by existing medications.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 10, 2019

More money, more gabapentin

Research found that more physicians receiving industry money prescribed brand-name gabapentin, increasing concerns about its potential for abuse. Gabapentin prescriptions have tripled in the US since 2002.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJul 8, 2019

New device sheds light on mechanism, efficacy of arthritis treatment

A new study by Cornell University provides insight into the mode of action of hyaluronic acid (HA) injections, finding a direct correlation between lubricating properties and pain relief in patients. The research suggests that HA products should be reclassified as drugs to better regulate their treatment options.

SourceCornell University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 3, 2019
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

App helps improve pain control and reduce opiate use after surgery

A smartphone app called PainCoach helps patients reduce their use of opiate painkillers and improve pain control after total knee replacement surgery. The app provides personalized advice on pain relief and exercises to help patients manage their pain levels, resulting in lower opiate use and improved quality of life.

SourceThe European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care (ESAIC)·DateJun 1, 2019

US dentists out-prescribe UK dentists when it comes to opioids

Researchers found US dentists prescribe 37 times more opioids than UK counterparts in 2016, a peak year in the US opioid crisis. The study emphasizes the importance of adopting national guidelines for treating dental pain and promoting judicious opioid prescribing among US dentists.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 24, 2019

University of Virginia chemist IDs possible addiction-free pain reliever

Researchers at the University of Virginia have identified a possible new drug target for reducing chronic pain and inflammation. A naturally occurring enzyme called diacylglycerol lipase-beta (DAGL?) has been found to produce chemical signals that control inflammation, making it a viable target for non-addictive pain relief.

SourceUniversity of Virginia·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateMay 16, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Bullying linked to student's pain medication use

A school-based survey study in Iceland found that bullied students were more likely to use pain medications, despite controlling for pain levels. The study suggests that interventions aimed at reducing bullying may help reduce analgesic use in adolescents.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Paediatrica·DateMay 9, 2019

Does insulin resistance cause fibromyalgia?

Researchers have discovered a significant link between insulin resistance and fibromyalgia, enabling the use of metformin medication to reduce pain levels. The study found that most patients with fibromyalgia can be identified by their A1c levels, which reflect average blood sugar levels over two to three months.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 7, 2019

Deadly box jellyfish antidote discovered using CRISPR genome editing

Researchers at University of Sydney have discovered an antidote to the deadly Australian box jellyfish sting, blocking necrosis, skin scarring and pain. The medicine was developed using CRISPR genome editing techniques, which identified a pathway in human cells that can be targeted by a known cholesterol-blocking drug.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 30, 2019
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

New discovery in how mammals sense the cold could lead to new pain relief drugs

Researchers have identified distinct sensory neuron systems for detecting different intensities of cold in mammals, which may lead to the development of new drugs for treating cold-related pain. The study found that Trpm8 neurons detect acute cold and NaV1.8-expressing neurons detect prolonged extreme cold.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 24, 2019
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Study suggests 'rest is best' for carpal tunnel and similar injuries

A four-week rest period was nearly as effective as an experimental drug in reducing discomfort and regaining function after injury from repeated moderate-strain activity. The study suggests that rest may be a good first treatment choice for common musculoskeletal disorders, with exercises and pain reducers used to aid recovery.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 9, 2019

Combining opioids and marijuana may be advantageous for pain sufferers

Researchers found that combining cannabinoids with morphine did not increase impulsivity or memory impairment in rhesus monkeys, suggesting a safe way to cut opioid dosage for pain sufferers. The study's findings support the notion that opioid-cannabinoid mixtures can be effective for treating pain without greater adverse effects.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 9, 2019
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Opioid epidemic is increasing rates of some infectious diseases

The opioid epidemic is driving a surge in infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, heart infections, and skin and soft tissue infections. Comprehensive treatment that addresses both substance use disorder and underlying infections can improve outcomes for patients.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateApr 3, 2019

Acetaminophen may increase stroke risk for those with diabetes

Researchers found that acetaminophen use was associated with a slightly higher risk of stroke in people with diabetes. In contrast, the medication did not increase the risk of heart attacks or overall deaths. The study suggests that older adults with diabetes should exercise caution when taking acetaminophen.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateApr 2, 2019
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Woman with novel gene mutation lives almost pain-free

Researchers discovered a novel gene mutation that reduces activity of the FAAH gene, which is involved in pain sensation and anxiety. The mutation is associated with enhanced wound healing, reduced anxiety, and fearlessness, potentially leading to new treatments for post-surgical pain and anxiety.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalBritish Journal of Anaesthesia·DateMar 27, 2019

ACC/AHA guidance for preventing heart disease, stroke released

The new guideline provides comprehensive recommendations for preventing cardiovascular disease through lifestyle changes, such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight. It also emphasizes the importance of identifying and addressing personal or social barriers to adopting these habits.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMar 18, 2019
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Stopping DAPT after one-month improved outcomes in stent patients

Patients who stopped taking aspirin and continued clopidogrel fared significantly better after one year, with a reduced risk of bleeding and no increase in clot-related events. The study suggests that stopping DAPT after one month may be a good option for patients after drug-eluting stent implantation.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 18, 2019

Study suggests painkillers taken during pregnancy not a cause of asthma in kids

A study of nearly 500,000 women found that taking paracetamol or other painkillers during pregnancy increases the risk of asthma in children, but the risk is similar when other types of painkillers are used. The research suggests that another factor linked to painkiller use and asthma risk may be chronic pain and stress.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateMar 17, 2019

HSS orthopedic surgeons address opioid epidemic head on

HSS has developed a pain management pathway that combines multimodal analgesia and alternative treatments, resulting in a significant decrease in opioid use without sacrificing pain control. The initiative involves surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and other care team members.

SourceHospital for Special Surgery·DateMar 12, 2019
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

No difference in IV versus oral acetaminophen for pain after hip replacement

A study published in the Journal of Arthroplasty found that intravenous and oral acetaminophen work equally well to manage post-surgery pain after hip replacement. The researchers tested both forms as part of a multimodal analgesia protocol, with patients showing low pain scores and minimal side effects.

SourceHospital for Special Surgery·JournalThe Journal of Arthroplasty·DateMar 12, 2019

Opioid crisis: Only a US phenomenon?

The opioid crisis is expanding globally, with Norway, Sweden, and Denmark reporting a surge in prescription opioid prescriptions for chronic non-cancer pain. The study highlights the need to curtail the use of strong painkillers like oxycodone, which can lead to overdose deaths.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalScandinavian Journal of Pain·DateMar 12, 2019

New target for chronic pain relief confirmed by scientists

Researchers at Hiroshima University discovered a potential new target for chronic pain treatment by activating the REV-ERBs receptor. This discovery could lead to more effective drugs for various types of chronic pain, including sciatica, cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis.

SourceHiroshima University·DateMar 7, 2019
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

No link found between MMR vaccine and autism

A nationwide cohort study of Danish children found no link between MMR vaccination and autism. The study included 657,461 children and analyzed their risk for autism after vaccination. No increased risk was observed in susceptible subgroups or during specified time periods.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 4, 2019

Machine learning could eliminate unnecessary treatments for children with arthritis

Researchers developed a machine learning tool to classify children with arthritis into seven distinct groups based on joint patterns. This allowed them to predict which children will go into remission faster or develop more severe disease, enabling doctors to tailor treatment and spare patients unnecessary medication side effects.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateFeb 26, 2019

Stopping inflammation from becoming chronic

Researchers developed a cell model to investigate anti-inflammatory drug efficacy in both acute and resolving phases of chronic inflammation. The model reveals that conventional drugs can impair the resolution phase, leading to prolonged inflammation.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateFeb 22, 2019
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

New painkiller lasts longer, is less addictive than morphine

Researchers have developed a new nano-painkiller that bypasses the blood-brain barrier and has been shown to be effective in treating intense pain without severe side effects. The new approach uses Leu-enkephalin-based nanoparticles that target peripherally located opioid receptors with lower abuse potential than morphine.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 13, 2019

Potent marijuana edibles can pose a major unrecognized risk to patients with cardiovascular disease

A case report describes a patient who developed cardiac events after consuming potent marijuana edibles, emphasizing the importance of understanding THC's effects on the cardiovascular system. The study highlights the need for healthcare providers to educate patients with cardiovascular disease about cannabis use and its complications.

SourceElsevier·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·DateFeb 11, 2019
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Research pushes back on benefits of compounded topical pain creams

A federally funded study of nearly 400 patients found that compounded topical pain creams and gels offer no statistically significant difference in pain relief compared to placebos. The researchers concluded that people using these creams are being taken advantage of, as the scientific evidence supporting their benefits is lacking.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 5, 2019

Compounded pain creams no better than placebo

Researchers found compounded pain creams ineffective in relieving localized pain, with small benefits attributed to peripheral nervous system drugs. The treatment's lack of efficacy and high cost make it less suitable than FDA-approved compounds.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 4, 2019
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.