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January/February 2010 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

Research suggests that low vitamin D levels are an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease and may contribute to higher cardiovascular risk among blacks. The study found that accounting for vitamin D levels reduced the race-based risk of cardiovascular mortality by 60 percent.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 11, 2010

Fewer headaches on the horizon thanks to latest guidelines

The International Headache Society has published new research guidelines to stimulate more research into headache treatment and reduce health risks associated with treatment. The guidelines focus on episodic and chronic tension-type headaches, aiming to identify more effective treatments and improve clinical trial safety for patients.

SourceSAGE Publications UK·JournalCephalalgia·DateJan 6, 2010
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.

Pain management failing as fears of prescription drug abuse rise

Health consumers must become informed advocates for comprehensive pain treatment as physicians struggle with inadequate training and fear of prescription drug abuse. Long-term solutions require education, responsibility, and collaboration among all parties involved.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Pain & Palliative Care Pharmacotherapy·DateJan 4, 2010

Anti-inflammatory drugs (coxibs) interfere with aspirin's clotting ability -- Ben-Gurion U.

A new study at Ben-Gurion University reveals that taking coxib medications like Celebrex with aspirin increases the risk of cardiovascular events. Researchers found that coxibs interfere with aspirin's effectiveness in preventing blood clots, potentially offsetting its protective benefits.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 23, 2009

Could acetaminophen ease psychological pain?

A study found that acetaminophen reduced self-reported social pain and neural responses to social rejection in brain regions associated with physical pain. The findings suggest that acetaminophen may mitigate the distress of social rejection, potentially reducing antisocial behavior.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateDec 22, 2009

Painkiller undermines aspirin's anti-clotting action

A new study suggests that combining celebrex with low-dose aspirin may reduce the effectiveness of aspirin in preventing heart attack and stroke. Researchers found that celebrex interferes with aspirin's ability to block blood clots, particularly when taken in low doses.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 14, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Deaths related to narcotic pain relievers have doubled since 1991: Study

A study led by St. Michael's Hospital found that deaths from opioid use in Ontario doubled between 1991 and 2004, with a five-fold increase in oxycodone-related deaths after OxyContin was introduced in 2000. Most opioid-related fatalities were accidental, and most people who died had visited a doctor recently.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateDec 7, 2009

Deaths from opioid use have doubled, 5-fold increase in oxycodone deaths

A new study found that opioid-related deaths in Ontario, Canada have doubled since 1991, with a significant increase in oxycodone-related deaths. Most of these additional deaths were accidental, and the study suggests that increased rates of opioid prescriptions are a major factor in these deaths.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateDec 7, 2009
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

3 anticoagulant studies may change current medical practice

Recent studies on anticoagulants suggest that aspirin and heparin may not be effective in preventing unexplained, recurrent miscarriages. In contrast, a new study shows that dabigatran etexilate is as safe and effective as warfarin for treating venous thromboembolism.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood·DateDec 6, 2009

Are stroke survivors taking their medicine?

A UCLA study found that nearly 20% of stroke survivors were not taking antithrombotic medications, with non-Hispanic, older, and male patients more likely to be on these medications. The study suggests further research is needed to understand the reasons behind this disparity in medication adherence.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateDec 4, 2009

Outpatient disc treatment gives long-term back pain relief

A randomized study found that percutaneous disc decompression provides sustained pain relief up to two years, while conservative therapy only offers short-term benefits. Disc decompression involves deflating the bulging disc and relieving nerve root pressure, allowing for improved mobility and quality of life.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateDec 2, 2009
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.

Preventing repeat strokes -- are survivors taking their medicine?

Despite increased availability of prescription antiplatelet medications, the overall use of blood-thinning agents among stroke survivors has plateaued. Aspirin remains the predominant agent used for secondary stroke prevention, with no improvements in antithrombotic agent usage over a 7-year period.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateDec 1, 2009

Can heart disease treatments combat AMD?

A recent study found that low-dose aspirin may offer mild protection from AMD, reducing the risk by 18% in women who took the medication. However, statins did not show a significant impact on advanced AMD risk, with patients taking statins actually at a slightly higher risk of developing advanced disease.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalOphthalmology·DateDec 1, 2009

Aspirin, tylenol may decrease effectiveness of vaccines

University of Missouri researchers found that aspirin and Tylenol block enzymes that inhibit vaccines. This could lead to reduced antibody responses and decreased protection against infections.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateDec 1, 2009
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine

A new self-assessment score has been developed to predict diabetes risk, showing promise as a simple and effective tool. Additionally, researchers are considering alternative bacteria, Fusobacterium necrophorum, for sore throat treatment due to its association with a rare but life-threatening complication, Lemierre syndrome. Furthermor...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 30, 2009

Got a pain? -- Have a cup of Brazilian mint

Researchers at Newcastle University have scientifically proven the pain-relieving properties of Hyptis crenata, a traditional South American herb. The study showed that the herbal tea was as effective as Indometacin in relieving pain, with results comparable to synthetic aspirin-style drugs.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalActa Horticulturae·DateNov 24, 2009
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.

Common pain relievers may dilute power of flu shots

Research from the University of Rochester Medical Center found that using common pain killers like Advil and Tylenol at the time of flu injection can blunt the vaccine's effect. The study suggests that timing and dosage of pain relievers also play a role in reducing antibody production, which is necessary for immune protection.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·DateNov 3, 2009
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Study may explain how a well-known epilepsy and pain drug works

A Duke University researcher has discovered a receptor that receives messages from astrocytes, which can form excitatory synapses in the brain. The discovery may explain why people develop epilepsy or have neuropathic pain, and could lead to new therapies for these conditions.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalCell·DateOct 12, 2009

Aspirin misuse may have made 1918 flu pandemic worse

A new study suggests that high aspirin dosing levels during the 1918-1919 influenza pandemic may have contributed to increased mortality. Autopsy reports from 1918 support this theory, as they show signs consistent with aspirin toxicity and viral causes of death.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateOct 2, 2009

Chronic pain treatments work better together, says anesthesiologist

A new study by Queen's University researchers found that taking an anti-seizure drug and an antidepressant together is a more effective treatment for neuropathic pain than taking either individually. Patients experienced less pain and improved sleep when given both drugs, with significant improvements also seen in sleep interference.

SourceQueen's University·JournalThe Lancet·DateSep 30, 2009
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.

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.

New device could more effectively alleviate menstrual cramp pain

Researchers have developed a new vaginal device that delivers at least 10 times more medication to the uterus than existing oral medications, reducing side effects and potentially alleviating menstrual cramp pain. Phase II clinical trials will assess efficacy of the treatment in reducing pain.

SourceAmerican Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists·DateSep 21, 2009

Using magnetism to turn drugs on and off

Scientists have created an implantable device that utilizes magnetism to control the release of medication, allowing for precise and repeatable dosing. The device uses nanoparticles that heat up when exposed to a magnetic field, causing the drug to be released into the body.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 18, 2009
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Heart study shows many suffer poor quality of life

A recent study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that 29% of chronic angina patients experience angina chest pain at least once a week. Despite treatment options, many patients report limited enjoyment of life due to the symptom.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateSep 14, 2009
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.

Endothelin receptor may play role in sickle cell pain

Researchers found that the endothelin receptor plays a role in vaso-occlusive pain in sickle cell disease, with males more sensitized to pain. Females have more of the ETB receptor, which may explain better pain control and reduced sensitivity.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·DateSep 10, 2009

Deaths from unintentional injuries increase for many groups

A study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found a significant increase in deaths from unintentional injuries, particularly among middle-aged white women and men. The death rate from falls increased by 38% for white men and 48% for white women 65 and older.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateSep 2, 2009

Tiny pump means pain relief for big cats

A surgically implanted capsule-sized pump has been developed to provide continuous pain relief for big cats, reducing the need for daily injections. The pump was successfully used on two leopards at a Tennessee sanctuary, demonstrating its effectiveness in delivering pain medication quickly and efficiently.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Veterinary Research·DateSep 1, 2009

Aspirin works for primary prevention in moderate and high risk diabetics

Recent studies suggest that aspirin may not provide significant benefits for primary prevention in all diabetics. However, the European Society of Cardiology recommends its use for individuals with a high cardiovascular risk profile. Aspirin has been shown to reduce the risk of myocardial infarctions and strokes in this population, par...

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 31, 2009
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Ibuprofen is as effective as acetaminophen with codeine to treat pain in children with arm fractures

A recent study by the Medical College of Wisconsin found that ibuprofen is as effective as acetaminophen with codeine in treating pain in children with arm fractures. The study showed that children treated with ibuprofen reported better functional outcomes and higher satisfaction rates than those receiving acetaminophen with codeine.

SourceMedical College of Wisconsin·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateAug 18, 2009
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Computer system improves pain therapy for cancer patients

A new computer system has been successfully tested at Heidelberg University Hospital to improve pain therapy for cancer patients. The system, AiDPainCare, was found to have little variance from international guidelines and reduced patient pain.

SourceHeidelberg University Hospital·JournalPain·DateAug 11, 2009
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Neuropathic pain: The sea provides a new hope of relief

A newly discovered compound from a soft coral may hold the key to developing effective treatments for neuropathic pain. The research suggests that inflammation in the nervous system is a major factor in this condition, and the compound has been shown to reduce pain-related activities in isolated microglia and experimental rats.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Pharmacology·DateAug 4, 2009

Heart disease patients with previous blockages more likely to die

A study of heart disease patients reveals those with prior atherosclerosis are more likely to die in the hospital and receive less recommended therapy. Researchers found these patients were also more likely to have high blood pressure, diabetes, and earlier stroke and heart failure incidence.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateAug 3, 2009

Pain relief only 1 motive for opioid use among high school seniors

A study of high school seniors found that most who took opioid medications without a prescription did so for reasons other than pain relief, including relaxation and getting high. Students who used the drugs only for pain relief were less likely to engage in heavy drinking or other substance use.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateAug 3, 2009

Developing a safer form of acetaminophen

Scientists have developed a more efficient method to produce a novel form of acetaminophen with reduced liver toxicity risk, offering a potential solution to the growing concern over the drug's effects.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalOrganic Process Research & Development·DateJul 15, 2009
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.