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Treat-to-target strategy in gout management is effective

A randomized controlled trial found that a nurse-led care approach with a treat-to-target strategy significantly lowered uric acid levels and reduced the risk of gout flares and tophi compared to usual care. The study suggests that educating patients and providing regular follow-up can improve treatment adherence and outcomes.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 18, 2018

Cancer blood test trialed to prevent unnecessary chemotherapy

A new blood test that detects circulating tumour DNA is being tested to determine if cancer patients need chemotherapy after surgery. The trial aims to identify high-risk patients who may benefit from aggressive treatment and low-risk patients who can avoid chemotherapy.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·DateOct 17, 2018
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.

World's first trial of new three-part children's cancer treatment

A groundbreaking Phase 1 trial at the University of Southampton combines mIBG-targeted radiotherapy with two antibody therapies to boost the immune system against neuroblastoma, a common childhood cancer. The treatment aims to improve survival rates and is the first to test this combination of therapies.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·DateOct 9, 2018
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.

Can the timing of pushing during delivery affect outcomes?

A randomized clinical trial examined the timing of pushing during delivery, finding no significant difference between immediate and delayed pushing in rates of natural delivery or adverse outcomes among newborns. However, rates of hemorrhage and infection were higher among women who delayed pushing.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateOct 9, 2018

Participants in dementia prevention research motivated by altruism

A novel study suggests that people who participate in dementia prevention trials are primarily motivated by a desire to help others. The findings also highlight the importance of human interaction, with trial participants preferring staff-administered assessments over automated technologies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateOct 5, 2018

The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology: Vitamin D supplementation in adults does not prevent fractures, falls or improve bone mineral density

A large meta-analysis of 81 randomised trials found no effect of vitamin D supplementation on bone mineral density, fractures, or falls in adults. The study suggests that clinical guidelines should be changed to reflect the best available evidence and that there is little justification for using vitamin D supplements for musculoskeleta...

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateOct 4, 2018

Funder involved in all aspects of most industry-funded clinical trials

Most industry-funded clinical trials show funder involvement in design, conduct, and reporting, raising questions about academic freedom and independence. Only a few trials were found to be independent, highlighting the need for accurate reporting of contributorship to ensure patient confidence in trial results.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateOct 3, 2018
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.

Novel inhibitor of vascular calcification tested in trial of haemodialysis patients

A phase 1b study and a phase 2 proof of concept study have generated positive results for SNF472, demonstrating a linear pharmacokinetic behavior and improved safety profile. A randomized, placebo-controlled phase 2b study is evaluating the effect of SNF472 on cardiovascular calcification over 1 year in haemodialysis patients.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateOct 3, 2018

Diagnostic advance: gas-sensing capsule set to hit market by 2022

A world-first electronic capsule measures gaseous biomarkers in the gut to diagnose common and debilitating conditions, offering rapid, non-invasive diagnosis. Phase 2 clinical trials will pursue enhanced technology and target related biomarkers for improved treatment and reduced healthcare costs.

SourceRMIT University·DateOct 1, 2018

Women who drank more water had less frequent urinary tract infections

A study of 140 premenopausal women with recurrent cystitis found that those drinking more water (1.5 liters daily) experienced less frequent infections (average 1.7 vs 3.2 episodes). Drinking more water may be a safe and inexpensive alternative to antimicrobial treatment.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateOct 1, 2018
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.

Enhanced rehab for stroke doubles movement recovery

Researchers developed targeted plasticity therapy (TPT) to pair physical movements with vagus nerve stimulation, accelerating brain reorganization and recovery. The study found TPT to be twice as effective as traditional rehabilitation alone in doubling upper limb recovery rates.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalStroke·DateSep 27, 2018

Wearable defibrillator lowers sudden cardiac death, but only when you wear it

A UCSF-led study found that wearable cardioverter defibrillators lower mortality among patients who wear them consistently, but do not significantly reduce sudden cardiac death. The devices were more effective in reducing overall mortality, with a 35.5% lower risk of death compared to those who did not wear the device.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 26, 2018

Motor learning for precise motor execution

Researchers found that both internal models are necessary for precise movement: learning to move and where to move. This discovery may lead to the development of new clinical tests and training methods for athletes, particularly those with cerebellar ataxia.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 25, 2018
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.

Results from the SOLVE-TAVI trial reported at TCT 2018

The SOLVE-TAVI trial found that local anesthesia is both safe and effective for patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), especially those with intermediate to high surgical risk. The study also showed similar outcomes between current-generation balloon-expandable and self-expanding valves.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateSep 23, 2018
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Results from the COAPT trial reported at TCT 2018 and published simultaneously in NEJM

The COAPT trial found that the MitraClip device significantly reduced hospitalization rates and mortality, while improving quality-of-life measures and functional capacity in heart failure patients with secondary mitral regurgitation. The study also showed a substantial reduction in the need for heart transplants or left ventricular as...

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 23, 2018

Experimental nasal influenza vaccine tested in kids, teens

A Phase 1 clinical trial is testing the safety and immune-stimulating ability of an experimental nasal influenza vaccine in healthy children and teens. The investigational vaccine, developed by FluGen, Inc., has been designed to replicate only once in the body and prompt a robust immune response.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateSep 17, 2018

Regret is a gambler's curse, neuroscientists say

A UC Berkeley study reveals the brain's orbitofrontal cortex replays and revisits nearly every feature of previous decisions after placing a bet. The researchers found that gamblers' regret from losing or not betting more is the main driver of activity in this region.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 13, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

High dose folic acid does not prevent pre-eclampsia in high risk women

A randomised controlled trial found that high dose folic acid supplementation beyond the first trimester has no benefit for preventing pre-eclampsia. However, low dose folic acid supplements before and during early pregnancy are still strongly recommended to prevent birth defects such as spina bifida.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateSep 12, 2018

Regrowing dental tissue with stem cells from baby teeth

Researchers have successfully conducted a Phase I clinical trial in China, showing that stem cells extracted from baby teeth can regrow dental tissue, promoting healthy root development and increased blood flow. The treatment has been found safe and effective, with patients regaining sensation in their injured teeth.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 11, 2018
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Did tai ji quan balance training program reduce fall risk for older adults?

A randomized clinical trial found that a Tai Ji Qan balance training program was more effective than other exercise programs in reducing falls among older adults at high risk. The study included 670 participants and lasted six months, with results suggesting improved fall prevention through the specific focus on balance training.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateSep 10, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Clinical trial testing topical cream plus influenza vaccine in progress

A Phase 1 clinical trial is underway to evaluate the immune-boosting properties of imiquimod cream in combination with an H5N1 influenza vaccine. The study aims to enhance the immune response conferred by the pre-pandemic vaccine, potentially reducing the number of doses required to achieve sufficient immunity.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateSep 5, 2018
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.

Best of ESC Congress 2018

At ESC Congress 2018, a record 156 countries were represented, with over 4,500 abstracts presented in 500 expert sessions. Key clinical trials included MARINER, CAMELLIA-TIMI 61, and ASCEND, which may impact practice and guideline updates. The congress also featured new guidelines for hypertension care.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 29, 2018

First randomised trial tests criteria used to diagnose heart attack

A new randomized trial tested a revised set of criteria for diagnosing heart attacks, but found that using these criteria did not reduce the rate of recurrent heart attacks or cardiovascular deaths. The study suggested that the revised criteria could lead to more diagnoses and treatment, but with no adverse effects on patient outcomes.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 28, 2018

Clinical trials needed to study cannabinoid use in Canadian children

A national approach is needed for trialing cannabinoids in children due to the lack of high-quality evidence and unregulated use of products. Collaboration among academics, industry, and provincial governments is required to conduct multiple-site clinical trials with long-term follow-up.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateAug 28, 2018

New treatment can halve hospital stays for some patients with heart infection

A new treatment has been found to significantly reduce hospital stays for patients with heart infections by halving the duration of intravenous antibiotic treatment. The POET trial showed that giving patients oral antibiotics after at least ten days of intravenous treatment was as effective and safe as continued intravenous treatment, ...

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 28, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Blood pressure drug slows aortic dilatation in Marfan syndrome

Treatment with irbesartan, a blood pressure medication, slows aortic dilatation in children and young adults with Marfan syndrome. The five-year study found a clinically important reduction in aortic dilatation rates, potentially delaying surgical intervention and reducing complications.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 28, 2018
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.

Fish oils do not prevent heart attack or strokes in people with diabetes

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that fish oil supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids did not reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in patients with diabetes. The ASCEND trial involved over 15,000 participants and followed them for an average of 7.4 years.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 26, 2018

Dengue vaccine efficacy and viral genetic diversity

A statistical analysis of two Phase 3 clinical trials reveals a decrease in dengue vaccine efficacy with increasing antigen amino acid mismatch in children aged 2-8. In contrast, older children showed broader protective responses with prior virus exposure.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 20, 2018
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.

NIH begins clinical trial of live, attenuated Zika vaccine

The Phase 1 clinical trial will analyze the immune response and assess the safety of the experimental vaccine, which has shown promise in earlier tests in rhesus macaques. The trial is designed to enroll 28 healthy adults and will last up to one year.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateAug 16, 2018

How people use, and lose, preexisting biases to make decisions

A study from Columbia University neuroscientists found that the human brain employs precise logic to decision-making, allowing prior knowledge to be updated based on new evidence. Participants learned to recognize and incorporate bias in a statistically optimal manner without confirmation bias.

SourceThe Zuckerman Institute at Columbia University·JournalNeuron·DateAug 16, 2018
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.

Intervention for young transgender women to reduce risk of HIV

A randomized clinical trial found an intervention reducing condomless sex acts among young transgender women, suggesting it is both feasible and effective. The project shared information about HIV, promoted condom use, and encouraged partner communication to reduce the risk of HIV transmission.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateAug 13, 2018

Experts highlight Ebola vaccine progress and suggest next steps

Experts review current Ebola vaccine candidates and clinical trials, highlighting key gaps in knowledge that need to be addressed by future research. More data is needed on the durability and rapidity of immune responses generated by various vaccine approaches.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 10, 2018
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.

AI model 'learns' from patient data to make cancer treatment less toxic

MIT researchers develop a machine-learning model that reduces toxic chemotherapy and radiotherapy dosing for glioblastoma patients, maintaining tumor-shrinking potential while minimizing side effects. The model uses reinforced learning to favor lower doses and schedules, improving patient quality of life.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateAug 10, 2018