A new clinical trial has found that donor stem cell transplantation nearly doubles the survival rate of older patients with higher-risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), aged 50-75. The study suggests that transplant should be considered for all eligible patients, ideally referred early to increase chances of finding a suitable donor.
A $2.1 million federal grant will enhance clinical trial access in five areas, including care before birth and obesity, with the goal of improving health outcomes for all Louisiana children and potentially slowing or preventing chronic diseases like asthma.
SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·DateDec 4, 2020
Researchers propose guidelines to continue placebo-controlled trials of COVID-19 vaccine candidates even after an effective vaccine is found. This approach aims to address the global pandemic while ensuring valuable data collection from low-risk participants.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 3, 2020
Researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign have found that combining exercise and mindfulness training can significantly reduce fatigue in breast cancer survivors. The study used a feasibility trial with 40 women, who reported a drop in fatigue levels after participating in a combination of both interventions.
SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalPsycho-Oncology·DateDec 2, 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.
The UC San Diego-led Collaborative Clinical Trials Unit (CTU) will investigate therapeutic strategies for a cure and functional cure of HIV. The CTU will also evaluate viral persistence and latent reservoirs, as well as new antiretroviral drugs and treatments for co-infections.
A new approach to guiding heart bypass surgery is being tested on patients for the first time, using non-invasive CT scans. The FAST TRACK CABG study aims to simplify treatment for coronary artery disease patients.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Dallas are working on a new brain implant that aims to restore vision to people with blindness. The device uses small electrodes to stimulate neurons, producing phosphenes that can help individuals recognize objects and navigate their surroundings.
A widely used tuberculosis vaccine is associated with reduced likelihood of contracting COVID-19, according to a new study by Cedars-Sinai. The BCG vaccine was found to be effective in reducing SARS-CoV-2 antibody levels and the risk of coronavirus infections or severity of the disease.
SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 20, 2020
A research team led by Susan Bergeson has developed a new medication to treat alcohol use disorder, receiving a $7.25 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to begin testing the drug. The treatment targets neuroinflammation as a major pathway in AUD.
SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·DateNov 20, 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.
A Danish trial found that wearing masks outside the home weakly supports lesser degrees of protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection, but cannot definitively exclude no effect. The study showed similar infection rates between mask and control groups despite public health measures in place.
SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 18, 2020
The PCR Valves e-Course will unite global experts in valvular heart disease for a 3-day digital initiative. Key findings include virtual LIVE demonstrations and classroom environment workshops offering simulation-based learning on cardiac anatomy and pathophysiology.
A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that pod e-cigarettes are significantly safer than combustible cigarettes, with reduced levels of carcinogens and respiratory symptoms. The study suggests that e-cigarettes may be a viable harm-reduction option for smokers who struggle to quit or reduce their smoking habit.
SourceBrown University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 18, 2020
A phase 1/2 randomised controlled trial of the inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine candidate CoronaVac involved over 700 healthy volunteers aged 18-59 years recruited in China. The study found that CoronaVac is safe and induces a robust antibody response within four weeks after two doses, with optimal dosing identified as 3μg.
SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateNov 17, 2020
A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming dairy foods did not directly affect blood sugar levels in people with metabolic syndrome. However, participants on a full-fat dairy diet gained weight and those on low-fat or full-fat diets experienced reduced insulin sensitivity.
SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateNov 16, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
A randomized trial investigated carboxylic acid formulation of EPA and DHA, reducing cardiovascular outcomes in patients with atherogenic dyslipidemia. The study found omega-3 CA to be more effective than corn oil in reducing major adverse cardiovascular events in high-risk patients.
A clinical trial found that fluvoxamine prevented COVID-19 infections from worsening and kept patients out of the hospital. The antidepressant drug reduced inflammation and protected against serious breathing difficulties, suggesting it may be a promising treatment for mild to moderate cases of COVID-19.
SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·DateNov 13, 2020
A study found that diagnostic imaging studies with positive conclusions were associated with a shorter time from study completion to publication, contributing to an overrepresentation of positive results in the test accuracy literature. Studies with positive titles showed no significant association with faster publication times.
SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateNov 13, 2020
A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine shows that providing support for small lifestyle changes can almost halve the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. The Norfolk Diabetes Prevention Study found that modest weight loss and increased physical activity reduced the risk by 40-47% for those with prediabetes.
SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateNov 13, 2020
A national study published in JAMA found that hydroxychloroquine did not improve clinical outcomes for adult patients hospitalized with respiratory illness related to COVID-19. The study, which enrolled 479 patients, showed no evidence that the drug prevented death or helped patients recover more quickly.
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateNov 13, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A recent study published in JAMA found that fluvoxamine may prevent serious breathing problems in people with mild COVID-19 illness. The results show that fluvoxamine has the potential to reduce the risk of hospitalization in COVID-19 patients.
A randomized trial found fluvoxamine significantly reduces the risk of worsening symptoms like pneumonia and oxygen desaturation in adult outpatients with mild COVID-19. The study also suggests fluvoxamine's potential as a treatment for COVID-19, offering hope for improved patient outcomes.
A recent survey by the American Cancer Society found that nearly 1 in 5 cancer patients are less likely to enroll in clinical trials during the pandemic. The top reason cited is fear of COVID-19 exposure. This could lead to reduced enrollment in trials already struggling to find patients.
SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateNov 12, 2020
A recent survey of cancer survivors found that many are hesitant to participate in clinical trials due to concerns about COVID-19 safety protocols. The study's authors aim to understand these attitudes and promote patient enrollment in trials.
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 randomized clinical trial found that vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acid supplements, and strength-training exercise program improved blood pressure and cognitive function in older adults. The study also investigated the combination of these interventions, which showed even greater benefits.
The VA Integration Support Program provides $50,000 grants to VA medical centers to facilitate veteran enrollment in SWOG and NCTN trials. This initiative aims to increase access to targeted treatments and immunotherapies for veterans with cancer.
A randomized clinical trial found that e-cigarette use combined with individual counseling significantly increased quit rates compared to counseling alone. The study concluded that e-cigarette assistance can be an effective complement to traditional counseling services for smokers trying to quit.
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.
Researchers found that adding tree nuts to a Western-style diet improves sperm count, viability, motility, and morphology. Nut consumption also alters specific sperm DNA methylation patterns, with 97.2% of regions displaying hypermethylation.
SourceUniversitat Rovira i Virgili·JournalAndrology·DateNov 9, 2020
A randomized trial found that hydroxychloroquine improved the clinical status of adults hospitalized with COVID-19. The study compared the effects of hydroxychloroquine versus placebo on patients' clinical status at 14 days.
Dr. Anne B. Newman will receive the American Heart Association's 2020 Clinical Research Prize for her work on aging and cardiovascular disease. She is being recognized for her extensive research career, including long-term cohort studies and clinical trials on aging and physical functioning.
The use of brain magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has shown promise in treating depression, PTSD, and cognitive issues in military populations, but the effectiveness remains unclear. A review of nine clinical trials found mixed results, with some studies showing improvement while others found no benefit.
SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation·DateNov 5, 2020
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.
The study aims to enroll non-pregnant adults older than 18 and will investigate the safety, immune response, and efficacy of the vaccine. UH Cleveland Medical Center is part of the NIAID-supported COVID-19 Prevention Network (CoVPN) and has extensive knowledge in vaccine research.
SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·DateOct 29, 2020
A tiny brain device called Stentrode has been shown to help patients with upper limb paralysis text, email and even shop online. The device was implanted successfully in two patients with severe ALS and enabled them to complete daily tasks wirelessly.
SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalJournal of NeuroInterventional Surgery·DateOct 28, 2020
The study found that 5-year freedom from biochemical failure stands at 68%, comparable to other salvage modalities. At 10 years, the rate dropped to 54%. Late Grade 3 gastrointestinal and genitourinary adverse events occurred in 14% of participants.
A combination approach of catheter ablation and ethanol infusion significantly reduced atrial fibrillation recurrence rates, with 49% remaining free from AFib after six months. This finding supports the use of the Vein of Marshall Ethanol for Untreated Persistent Atrial Fibrillation (VENUS) trial's treatment as a first-line therapy.
A new study examines clinical trials involving radiation therapy from 1996 to 2019 and finds that Black and Asian American patients are underrepresented, with 12% and 3% of trial participants respectively. The findings highlight the need for better inclusion of racial minorities in research studies.
SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateOct 27, 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.
A randomized clinical trial found that electroacupuncture significantly reduced pain severity among adults with chronic low back pain. The study compared the effects of electroacupuncture to a placebo treatment, with results indicating a notable decrease in pain severity.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 27, 2020
A randomized phase III trial found that image-guided intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) improves long-term toxicity-free survival and reduces gastrointestinal side effects in women with cervical cancer. The study showed a significant reduction in moderate-to-severe gastrointestinal side effects compared to 3D-CRT, with improv...
SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateOct 26, 2020
A phase II trial found no statistically significant overall survival differences between dose-intensification radiation therapy (IMRT) and standard-dose radiation therapy with temozolomide treatments. However, MGMT methylation and RPA were predictive of progression-free survival.
The study found that MFS was strongly correlated with OS (τ = 0.86), while BF and DM were only moderately and weakly correlated with OS, respectively. The analysis suggests that researchers should be cautious when inferring clinical benefit from studies using biochemical failure as a surrogate for overall survival.
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
The NRG-RTOG 0712 trial demonstrated high efficacy rates for both gemcitabine and daily radiation regimens, with 79% and 85% distant metastasis-free rates at 3 years, respectively. The findings confirm the acceptance of these treatments as alternatives to cystectomy.
A clinical trial published in the New England Journal of Medicine shows that finerenone significantly slows the progression of diabetic kidney disease by 18% compared to a placebo. The study also found a reduction in cardiovascular event rates, offering new treatment options for patients with chronic kidney disease and type 2 diabetes.
SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 23, 2020
Recent clinical trials have shown promising results for finerenone, which slows diabetic kidney disease progression and reduces cardiovascular events when added to standard care. Empagliflozin also demonstrated benefits in patients with heart failure and chronic kidney disease. These findings suggest new treatment options for patients ...
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.
Current Covid-19 vaccine trials are not designed to detect a reduction in serious outcomes such as hospitalisations, intensive care use, or deaths. The trials evaluate mild disease and may not provide evidence of vaccine effectiveness in preventing severe illness or transmission.
Researchers consider indirect protection strategies due to potential ineffectiveness in elderly and comorbid individuals. Indirect effects are harder to measure than direct effects, highlighting the need for evidence on vaccine impact before approval or soon after.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 21, 2020
The study found that tocilizumab significantly improved survival rates among adults hospitalized with moderate-to-severe COVID-19 pneumonia compared to standard care. By reducing mortality and shortening hospital stays, the treatment offers a promising alternative for critically ill patients.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateOct 20, 2020
Researchers found that tocilizumab, an anti-inflammatory drug, reduced mortality by 30 percent in critically ill COVID-19 patients when administered early in ICU care. The study analyzed data from over 4,000 patients with COVID-19 and found consistent benefits across age, sex, and illness severity.
SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateOct 20, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
Researchers at University of Chicago Medicine are launching a four-year trial to test two interventions for personalized diabetes care in older adults. The 'My Diabetes, My Community' trial incorporates personalized sugar control goals, telephonic care management, and community-based resource access.
The FORECAST trial found that fractional flow reserve derived from computed tomography coronary angiography (FFRCT) reduced the use of invasive coronary angiography by 22% without significantly reducing costs. The strategy also showed promise in terms of reducing healthcare utilization and improving patient outcomes.
The TARGET FFR trial found that a physiology-guided incremental optimization strategy (PIOS) reduced the proportion of patients with a final post-PCI FFR ?0.80, while also improving mean Coronary Flow Reserve. The study's results suggest potential benefits for PCI outcomes.
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.
The MITHRAS trial found that interventional closure of an iatrogenic atrial septal defect (iASD) driven by transcatheter mitral valve repair was not superior to conservative medical treatment. The study also revealed that the presence of a persistent iASD is associated with increased long-term mortality and morbidity following TMVR.
SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·JournalCirculation·DateOct 15, 2020
Researchers from the University of Minnesota developed a bimodal neuromodulation treatment using sound and electrical stimulation to reduce tinnitus symptoms. The study, published in Science Translational Medicine, showed significant improvements in symptom severity for 86% of participants after 12 weeks of treatment.
SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 15, 2020
A new self-expanding bioprosthetic valve used in TAVR failed to demonstrate non-inferiority compared to an existing valve. The SCOPE II Trial found increased rates of cardiac death and moderate-severe aortic regurgitation with the new valve.
SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·JournalCirculation·DateOct 15, 2020
The REFLECT II trial evaluated the safety and effectiveness of TriGuard 3, a self-stabilizing cerebral embolic deflection filter, in patients undergoing TAVR. The device met the primary safety endpoint, but did not demonstrate superiority for reducing ischemic stroke or larger lesions.
A Phase 1/2 randomised controlled trial found the vaccine candidate BBIBP-CorV is safe and induces an immune response in healthy volunteers. The study detected antibody responses in all recipients by day 42 after vaccination, and was well-tolerated with no severe adverse reactions reported.
SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateOct 15, 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 new study found that personal and psychological characteristics significantly impact progress in workplace wellness programs. The research suggests that tailoring nudges to an individual's behavior profile can unlock full potential, leading to improved outcomes. For some groups, ongoing incentives may be necessary to sustain motivation.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 14, 2020
A randomized clinical trial found that different fitness strategies were effective for distinct subgroups of participants based on their personality and behavioral characteristics. These subgroups included extroverted and motivated individuals, less active and less social participants, and those who were less motivated and at-risk.
The PROSPECT ABSORB trial found PCI safe with favorable long-term outcomes for non-flow-limiting vulnerable plaques. Follow-up lumen areas were substantially enlarged in BVS-treated lesions compared to GDMT alone.
SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateOct 14, 2020
The COMBINE (OCT-FFR) trial found that the presence of TCFA is a strong predictor of future MACE, despite lack of ischemia. Combining FFR and OCT can improve accuracy of high-risk lesion identification in patients with diabetes.
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.
The NIH has launched the ACTIV-5 Big Effect Trial to determine whether certain approved therapies or investigational drugs show promise against COVID-19. The study will enroll adult volunteers hospitalized with COVID-19 at up to 40 US sites and test three investigational treatments against a placebo.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateOct 13, 2020
A Phase I trial found neoadjuvant combination immunotherapy with tremelimumab and durvalumab showed early signs of activity in patients with high-risk disease, with a pathologic complete response rate of 37.5%.
SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateOct 12, 2020