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Study: Severe asthma fails to respond to mainstay treatment

Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have discovered a unique immune response feature in patients with severe asthma, which may lead to new treatments. The study found that boosting levels of secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) reduces airway hyper-reactivity in animal models.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 29, 2015

UC Davis study guides efforts to find new strategies, solutions to fight pediatric asthma

A recent UC Davis study highlights the need for improved primary care support structures to address high pediatric asthma rates in California. The research found that nearly 10% of state children suffer from asthma, with low flu vaccination rates and limited access to primary care providers contributing to these rates.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalPopulation Health Management·DateJun 26, 2015

Children with asthma likely born in Toronto area with high air pollution

Researchers identified clusters where higher numbers of children who developed asthma were born in Toronto, suggesting early life factors at the neighbourhood level are relevant to childhood asthma. Air pollution during pregnancy and shortly after birth was found to be related to developing asthma later in childhood.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalHealth & Place·DateJun 26, 2015

Older asthma patients at increased risk for treatment failure

A new study found that older asthma patients, particularly those over 30, are more likely to experience treatment failure. The risk of treatment failure increases proportionally with age above 30 and is associated with lower lung function measurements and longer duration of asthma.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJun 12, 2015
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.

Dusty secrets could help asthma sufferers

A study by the University of Arizona's BIO5 Institute has identified potential protective compounds in dust samples from Amish farming communities. The findings suggest that these natural environmental products could be transformed into medicines to promote lung health and prevent asthma. The research aims to understand the biological ...

SourceUniversity of Arizona·DateJun 11, 2015

Aerobic exercise seems to curb asthma severity and improves quality of life

Research suggests that aerobic exercise can curb asthma symptoms and improve quality of life by reducing bronchial hyperresponsiveness and inflammatory response. The study found significant improvements in symptom-free days, worsening symptom bouts, and quality of life scores among participants with moderate to severe asthma.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThorax·DateJun 10, 2015
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.

Contaminant particles increase hospital admissions for children with respiratory illnesses

A study by researchers from the University of Seville found that high concentrations of fine particles (PM2.5) in urban areas increase hospital admissions for children with respiratory illnesses such as bronchiolitis, pneumonia, asthma, and bronchitis. Reducing PM2.5 levels to the recommended WHO threshold could lead to a daily saving ...

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of the Air & Waste Management Association·DateJun 1, 2015

Soy supplements don't improve asthma

A new study from Northwestern University finds that soy supplements do not improve lung function for patients with asthma. Lifestyle and diet may play a role in managing the disease, rather than relying on individual strategies like increasing soy consumption.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA·DateMay 26, 2015
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.

Many children with asthma have reaction to peanuts, but do not know it

A new study found that nearly 22% of children with asthma also demonstrate a sensitivity to peanuts, which can lead to increased morbidity and mortality. The study suggests that peanut sensitivity screening may be beneficial for these children, especially when controlling wheezing and coughing is difficult.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 17, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

How Twitter can help predict emergency room visits

Researchers created a model that predicts asthma-related emergency room visits with 75% accuracy by analyzing Twitter data and air quality sensors. The study highlights the potential of big data to address health challenges, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma and diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalIEEE Journal of Biomedical and Health Informatics·DateApr 15, 2015

NIH-funded scientists identify receptor for asthma-associated virus

Researchers have identified a cellular receptor, CDHR3, for rhinovirus C, a cold-causing virus strongly associated with severe asthma attacks. A variant of the gene has been linked to an increased risk of childhood wheezing illnesses and asthma.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 6, 2015
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.

UofL researchers to examine asthma triggers in older adults

Researchers will investigate biophysical factors, environmental exposures and allergens associated with asthma control in older adults. The five-year study aims to develop interventions to improve symptoms, reduce emergency room visits and enhance overall well-being for seniors with asthma.

SourceUniversity of Louisville·DateMar 30, 2015

Bariatric surgery appears to cut risks for serious asthma-related events

A study led by Massachusetts General Hospital investigators suggests that bariatric surgery can significantly reduce the risk of asthma attacks in obese patients. Significant weight reduction after surgery resulted in a half reduction in serious asthma-associated events, including emergency department visits and hospitalizations.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateMar 13, 2015

Keck School of Medicine of USC scientists open door for asthma cure

Researchers at Keck School of Medicine of USC have identified a crucial molecule in the survival of type 2 innate lymphoid cells, which trigger primary asthma symptoms. Targeting these molecules could lead to a cure for asthma or exacerbations caused by these cells.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalImmunity·DateMar 10, 2015
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.

Investigational drug can reduce asthma flareups

A new investigational drug, reslizumab, has been shown to reduce asthma attacks in patients who have difficulty controlling the disorder with standard medications. The study found that patients treated with reslizumab were at least 50% less likely to experience severe asthma exacerbations.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·DateFeb 23, 2015

Breastfeeding, other factors help shape immune system early in life

Research by Henry Ford Hospital reveals that breastfeeding and early exposure to bacteria stimulate the immune system, boosting protection against allergies and asthma. The study found distinct gut microbiome compositions in breastfed vs non-breastfed infants, with breastfed babies at lower risk of developing allergies.

SourceHenry Ford Health·DateFeb 21, 2015

Protein linked to development of asthma

A study published in Journal of Biological Chemistry identifies CCL28 as a key player in inducing asthma pathology even without a viral infection. This finding opens the door for developing potent and specific CCL28 inhibitors to prevent post-viral asthma in young children.

SourceMedical College of Wisconsin·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateFeb 20, 2015
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.

Severe asthma: Gallopamil confirmed as a therapeutic approach

Researchers from INSERM have demonstrated gallopamil's clinical efficacy in treating severe asthma by reducing bronchial smooth muscle mass and airway obstruction. The study involved 31 patients with severe asthma, who showed significant improvements in BSM thickness and asthma attacks after treatment.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateFeb 19, 2015

CU School Of Medicine researchers offer new target for treating asthma

Researchers at CU School of Medicine have identified Muc5ac, a protein involved in airway hyperreactivity, as a potential target for reducing obstruction in asthma. The study found that genetic removal of Muc5ac eliminated airway hyperreactivity, offering new hope for treating this chronic respiratory disease.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 18, 2015

Premature babies grow out of asthma

A large-scale Danish study shows that premature babies are more likely to suffer from asthmatic symptoms and lung conditions in early life. However, the study found that they tend to grow better and eventually suffer no more lung conditions than others as adults.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 4, 2015
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.

Time to rethink the inner-city asthma epidemic?

A new study from Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals that urban living is not a significant risk factor for asthma, instead highlighting the importance of poverty, African-American race, and Puerto Rican ethnicity as potent predictors. The research found no differences in asthma rates between children living in urban areas and their suburba...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJan 20, 2015

Rare mutations do not explain 'missing heritability' in asthma

A large-scale study found rare genetic mutations in three genes (GRASP, GSDMB, and MTHFR) associated with asthma risk, but only in specific ethnicities. These findings suggest gaps in the current understanding of asthma genetics.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 16, 2015
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.

Cold virus replicates better at cooler temperatures

Researchers found that the common cold virus, rhinovirus, replicates more efficiently in cooler temperatures, such as inside the nose. The study suggests that lower body temperature impairs the innate immune response to the virus, making it easier for the virus to replicate.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 5, 2015

Energy efficient homes linked to asthma

A new study by the University of Exeter Medical School found that residents in energy-efficient social housing may have a greater risk of developing asthma. The presence of mould doubled this risk, highlighting the need for residents to properly ventilate their homes to prevent health issues.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEnvironment International·DateDec 11, 2014
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.

Higher rate of asthma seen in toddlers who share a bed with their parents

A new study published in the European Respiratory Journal suggests that toddlers who share a bed with their parents are more likely to develop asthma in later childhood. Researchers found an association between bed-sharing at two years old and increased wheezing symptoms in early childhood.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateDec 10, 2014

Diagnosis targets in primary care are misleading and unethical

A senior GP argues that UK government plans to extend diagnosis targets in primary care to six other conditions are problematic and unscientific. The data on which they are based is flawed, leading to potential overdiagnosis and unnecessary tests and treatments.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 2, 2014

Causal link between antibiotics and childhood asthma dismissed

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have found no causal link between antibiotics and childhood asthma, contradicting previous studies. The study of half a million children suggests that respiratory infections may increase the risk of asthma, regardless of antibiotic treatment.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 1, 2014

High incidence of bowel disease seen in people with lung conditions

Research found that people with asthma had a 27% higher incidence of Crohn's disease, while those with COPD had a 55% higher incidence compared to the general population. The study highlights the importance of early detection and treatment of bowel diseases in airway patients.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateNov 18, 2014
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.

Active asthma may significantly raise risk of heart attack

Research studies presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2014 found that people with active asthma are more likely to experience a heart attack. Participants in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) who required daily medications for asthma were 60% more likely to have a cardiovascular event.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 16, 2014

Telephone coaches improve children's asthma treatment

A new program has been shown to reduce asthma symptoms and hospitalizations in low-income children by training their parents over the phone. The peer coaching model, which was tested in a two-year trial, resulted in significant reductions in ER visits and hospitalizations among families with Medicaid insurance.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateNov 13, 2014
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

What leads to weight loss success in adults with asthma?

A new study suggests that individuals with more severe asthma may be more motivated to lose weight, making them a key target for intervention. Gender tailoring of weight loss programs could also enhance success rates among adults with asthma.

SourceWiley·JournalRespirology·DateNov 13, 2014

Record grant will continue inner-city asthma research

The University of Wisconsin-Madison will continue its Inner-City Asthma Consortium research with a $70 million, seven-year grant from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. The project aims to reduce asthma severity in inner-city children and develop effective treatments.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·DateNov 10, 2014

Asthma vs. COPD, similar symptoms -- Different causes and treatment

Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) share similar symptoms, but the conditions have different causes and require unique treatment strategies. Accurate diagnosis is crucial to provide effective management for patients with overlapping characteristics of asthma and COPD.

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·DateNov 7, 2014

Does father really know best? Maybe not when it comes to controlling asthma

A recent study by the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) found that teenagers with asthma have higher health literacy levels than their caregivers. Additionally, a study on YouTube videos for asthma control revealed that most popular videos provide low-quality information, while videos from healthcare providers ...

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·DateNov 7, 2014
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.

Allergy sufferers are allergic to treatment more often than you'd think

An allergic response to a medication for allergies can often go undiagnosed due to its initial purpose of reducing inflammation. Patients experiencing worsening symptoms or an unresponsive rash may be reacting to the medication itself or one of its components, such as antibiotics or antifungals.

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·DateNov 6, 2014

Adenotonsillectomy and childhood asthma

A study found that adenotonsillectomy significantly decreased acute asthma exacerbations and episodes of status asthmaticus in children with asthma. The procedure may help alleviate underlying asthma severity by addressing related obstructive sleep apnea.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 4, 2014
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.

Genetic damage caused by asthma shows up in circulating blood stream, too

Asthma is a widespread disease that causes genetic damage in peripheral blood, leading to oxidative stress and DNA damage. The study found four types of systemic effects, including protein damage, which can result in unstable chromosomes and increase the risk of other diseases.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·DateNov 4, 2014

Surgery for sleep apnea improves asthma control

A large study found that surgery for sleep apnea significantly improves asthma control in children, with a 30% reduction in acute asthma exacerbations and a 38% decrease in severe asthma attacks. The study suggests that early identification and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea may help reduce asthma severity and improve outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 4, 2014

Study recommends integrating housing data with health data to improve patient medical care

Researchers found that children hospitalized for asthma are nearly twice as likely to be rehospitalized if they live in areas with high housing code violations. Integrating housing data with health data can help target patients for medical interventions and improve healthcare delivery at the population and patient level.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalHealth Affairs·DateNov 3, 2014

Breathe easier: Get your D

Researchers found that Vitamin D-deficient asthmatics are at a higher risk of an asthma attack and that boosting levels may help manage acute episodes. The study analyzed medical records of nearly four million people and found significant immunomodulatory effects of Vitamin D on asthma.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalAllergy·DateOct 28, 2014
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.