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Blood tests can predict the risk of liver cirrhosis

Repeated blood tests measuring liver damage biomarker FIB-4 identify people at high risk of severe liver disease. The study found that increased FIB-4 scores between testing occasions can predict future liver cirrhosis, with almost half of affected individuals identifiable.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJournal of Hepatology·DateJul 2, 2020

Clear signs of brain injury with severe COVID-19

A study from University of Gothenburg found that COVID-19 patients with moderate to severe symptoms exhibited brain injury signs, including elevated GFAP and NfL biomarkers. These biomarkers were also associated with disease severity and ventilator treatment.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNeurology·DateJun 18, 2020
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.

Combination biomarker predicts response to immune checkpoint therapy in patients with advanced bladder cancer

Researchers discovered a novel combination of biomarkers from baseline tumor tissues that predict improved clinical responses and prolonged survival in patients with advanced bladder cancer. ARID1A mutations and CXCL13 expression were associated with better overall survival, suggesting potential patient selection improvements.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 17, 2020

Simple blood test could one day diagnose motor neurone disease

Scientists at the University of Sussex have identified a potential pattern within blood that signals the presence of motor neuron disease. The discovery could significantly improve diagnosis with a future development of a blood test that identifies the unique biomarker, simplifying and speeding up diagnosis.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalBrain Communications·DateJun 17, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Rapid chip medical tests prototyped for premature babies

Scientists at the University of Southampton are developing a rapid bedside test to diagnose neonatal Respiratory Distress Syndrome in premature babies. The test uses photonic technology and fingerprint spectroscopies, offering compact and versatile diagnostic capabilities.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·DateJun 12, 2020
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.

Biomarkers may help us understand recovery time after concussion

A blood test using neurofilament light chain may predict recovery time after concussion, especially for those with multiple concussions. High levels of the biomarker are associated with severe symptoms like post-traumatic stress disorder and depression years later.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateMay 27, 2020

Potential biomarkers for multiple sclerosis

Two plasma and 10 cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers were identified to aid in early detection of MS with high sensitivity and specificity. These biomarkers may help monitor treatment response and disease progression.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 25, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Retinal texture could provide early biomarker of Alzheimer's disease

Researchers at Duke University have developed a new imaging device that can measure the thickness and texture of the retina, potentially providing an early warning system for Alzheimer's disease. The device combines two technologies to spot structural changes in the retina, which could be indicative of the disease.

SourceDuke University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 14, 2020
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.

A new biomarker for the aging brain

A study published in Brain found that a lag in blood drainage from the deep region of the brain is associated with ventriculomegaly and can be detected with MRI. The researchers identified this biomarker as a potential predictor for dementia and ventriculomegaly, which can be reversed by removing excess fluid.

SourceRIKEN·JournalBrain·DateMay 6, 2020

Race-specific lupus nephritis biomarkers

A study published in Nature Communications reveals distinct urinary biomarker proteins for lupus nephritis in African American patients. The findings suggest that the ALCAM protein may be a promising therapeutic target. Researchers plan to conduct a longitudinal study to predict disease flares and improve treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 5, 2020

Nasal biomarkers predict severity of pollen-specific allergy symptoms

Researchers identified IL-8 and IL-33 as key biomarkers for predicting pollen-specific nasal symptoms. These biomarkers also enable the prediction of symptom severity before the start of the pollen season.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateApr 29, 2020
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.

Personalized nutrition smart patch to reduce diabetes risk

A new wearable smart patch is being developed to help people personalize their diets and reduce their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. The device will measure key dietary biomarkers and send the information to an app, enabling users to precisely track how their bodies respond to different foods.

SourceRMIT University·DateApr 27, 2020

Blood test offers early warning of chemotherapy-related heart problems

Scientists have identified biomarkers that signal potential heart damage from cancer treatment, allowing for early diagnosis and intervention. The findings could lead to better patient care and outcomes by enabling doctors to adjust chemotherapy types or dosages before cardiac damage occurs.

SourceExperimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateApr 27, 2020

Spanish scientists identify a biomarker that detects atherosclerosis before the appearance of symptoms

Researchers at CNIC discovered a biomarker, complement component 5 (C5), that detects atherosclerosis in its preclinical phase. Plasma levels of C5 can identify individuals with subclinical atherosclerosis, helping to select those who would benefit from more costly imaging analysis.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 21, 2020
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.

A non-invasive way of monitoring diabetes

A new non-invasive method of monitoring diabetes uses saliva as a more convenient and sustainable alternative to traditional blood glucose testing. The research, published in PLOS ONE, achieved an accuracy rate of 95.2% using infrared platform technology.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 16, 2020

Potential early biomarker to track development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Researchers from Joslin Diabetes Center have identified a potential early biomarker for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is linked to the regulation of liver fat metabolism and fibrosis. The protein NREP was found to decrease in levels as NAFLD progressed, suggesting its role as an early indicator of the disease.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 6, 2020

Discovery of new biomarker in blood could lead to early test for Alzheimer's disease

Researchers discovered a biomarker for early detection of Alzheimer's disease in the form of high levels of RNA produced by the PHGDH gene. The study, published in Current Biology, suggests that overproduction of extracellular RNA by the PHGDH gene in elderly individuals may serve as an early warning sign of Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 31, 2020
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.

Unlocking schizophrenia

A novel imaging marker has been developed to help diagnose and treat schizophrenia, using abnormal striatal function as a promising biomarker. The study, published in Nature Medicine, shows that this biomarker can distinguish between schizophrenia patients and healthy controls, while also predicting treatment response.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 23, 2020

Cancer diagnostics

A team of scientists has developed a cancer diagnostics method that amplifies microRNA in live tumor cells using synthetic DNA and nanoparticles. This allows for the detection of tumor cells with high sensitivity, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and improved treatment outcomes.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMar 16, 2020

Novel blood test points to risk of weight gain and diabetes

Researchers developed a computer program analyzing molecules in blood plasma to identify individuals at risk of becoming overweight and developing obesity-related diseases. The test is 90% accurate in detecting whether the subject will gain weight without intervention, also predicting diabetes and other health risks.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·DateMar 10, 2020
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.

Blood test method may predict Alzheimer's protein deposits in brain

A new blood test detects abnormal tau protein accumulation, differentiating healthy participants from those with Alzheimer's pathology and predicting disease progression. The test shows promise for early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and related neurodegenerative disorders.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Aging·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 2, 2020
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.

Study finds certain genetic test not useful in predicting heart disease risk

A study published in JAMA found that polygenic risk scores are not a reliable predictor of coronary heart disease (CHD) in patients, contradicting long-held expectations. The researchers analyzed data from over 7,000 adults and concluded that these genetic tests provide limited information about who will develop CHD.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 21, 2020

E-cigarette users are exposed to potentially harmful levels of metal linked to DNA damage

A recent study by the University of California, Riverside found that e-cigarette users have elevated biomarkers of exposure and potential harm, including zinc excess correlated with oxidative DNA damage. The study highlights the risks of prolonged e-cigarette use and advises physicians to exercise caution when recommending e-cigarettes.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalBMJ Open Respiratory Research·DateFeb 20, 2020
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Studying sweat, the small stuff

A team of scientists is working on wearable devices that can detect molecules in sweat to monitor patient health status continuously without blood draws. They aim to standardize sample collection methods and develop low-level detection techniques for neuropeptides, allowing for a more holistic understanding of bodily functions.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateFeb 13, 2020

Ceramides predict vascular brain injury and dementia

Higher ratios of very-long-chain to long-chain ceramides were associated with reduced dementia and Alzheimer's disease risks, suggesting a potential role for plasma ceramides as biomarkers. Elevated ceramide ratios may also have protective effects against dementia, while altered lipid metabolism is linked to its development.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAnnals of Clinical and Translational Neurology·DateFeb 13, 2020
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Seismic biomarkers in Japan Trench fault zone reveal history of large earthquakes

Researchers found multiple faults with evidence of over 10 meters of slip during past large earthquakes in the Japan Trench fault zone, revealing a complex history of seismic activity. The technique used to analyze organic molecules in sedimentary rocks provides new insights into the likelihood of future tsunamis and earthquake hazards.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 27, 2020

Portable device helps doctors diagnose sepsis faster

A new portable biosensor developed by researchers at EPFL's School of Engineering can rapidly detect sepsis biomarkers in a patient's bloodstream, slashing diagnosis time from several days to just a few minutes. The device uses plasmonics technology and achieves accuracy on par with gold-standard laboratory methods.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalSmall·DateJan 23, 2020

Refining breast cancer classification by multiplexed imaging

Researchers used imaging mass cytometry to analyze 35 protein biomarkers in breast cancer patients, identifying four subcategories of the disease with varying molecular profiles. This breakthrough has the potential to change clinical practice by enabling precision medicine and personalized treatment approaches.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature·DateJan 20, 2020
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.

A secreted signature of aging cells

Researchers have discovered a secreted protein signature of aging cells, which is enriched with biomarkers found in human plasma. This breakthrough could lead to the development of therapeutic approaches to treat age-related diseases by targeting senescent cells.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 16, 2020

Racial disparities in heart failure explained

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found a significant association between malignant left ventricular hypertrophy and an increased risk of heart failure among black individuals. The study, published in the journal Circulation, suggests that early intervention can be beneficial in preventing future risk.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCirculation·DateJan 14, 2020
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Brain network activity in preterm infants

Researchers used MRI to assess neural activity in preterm infants and adults, finding similar patterns of interindividual variability in brain network activity. The study suggests that age-related increases in brain network variability may be linked to cortical maturation and expansion.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 30, 2019

sphingotec's endothelial function biomarker bio-ADM® predicts need for organ support in general ICU patient population

A new study published by sphingotec demonstrates that biomarker bio-ADM identifies high-risk patients for septic shock and those requiring immediate life-saving therapeutic intervention. Elevated bio-ADM levels are associated with prolonged ICU stays, fatal outcomes, and distortions in endothelial function.

Sourcesphingotec GmbH·JournalCritical Care Medicine·DateDec 20, 2019

Brain biomarkers for detecting Alzheimer's disease are located

Researchers at Universidad Complutense de Madrid have identified brain biomarkers for detecting Alzheimer's disease. A study found that patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment who develop dementia show increased and then decreased synchronization in brain regions, indicating cortical network dysfunction.

SourceUniversidad Complutense de Madrid·JournalBrain·DateDec 20, 2019

Sphingotec's biomarker penKid® predicts septic acute kidney injury

The penKid biomarker accurately predicted acute kidney injury (AKI), multiorgan failure, and mortality in unselected sepsis patients at presentation to the emergency department. Increasing penKid levels indicated worsening kidney function, enabling timely treatment decisions that improve outcomes.

Sourcesphingotec GmbH·JournalBMC Emergency Medicine·DateDec 20, 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.

SUTD and collaborators developed novel methodology to predict spinal fractures in patients

A new computational clinical tool predicts osteoporotic vertebral fractures by analyzing patient-specific finite element analysis of functional spinal units from routine clinical scans. The method enables more accurate patient-specific analysis, paving the way for a spinal risk assessment tool and targeted early treatment strategies.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalThe Spine Journal·DateDec 19, 2019