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Opening a new door to immunity

Researchers uncover clue to disease process development by identifying novel way to control innate immune response, which may translate to treatments for conditions such as atherosclerosis, autoimmunity, and heart failure. Animal studies support finding, showing mice with mutated sNASP proteins are more susceptible to septic infection.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 11, 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.

Researchers find gut microbiome plays an important role in atherosclerosis

The study found that patients with unexplained atherosclerosis had significantly higher blood levels of toxic metabolites produced by intestinal bacteria. The researchers suggest that the gut microbiome plays an important role in an individual's risk for atherosclerosis, opening the door for new treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalAtherosclerosis·DateMay 2, 2018

New actors identified in atherosclerosis

Researchers have identified three distinct macrophage populations that play different roles in the development of atherosclerosis. These findings provide new insights into the disease and may lead to improved treatments. The study used single-cell RNA sequencing to analyze immune cell populations in affected vessels.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalCirculation Research·DateApr 5, 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.

An organ-on-a-chip device that models heart disease

Researchers have developed an organ-on-a-chip device that accurately models atherosclerosis, allowing them to study inflammatory responses in cells lining blood vessels. The device can also be used to diagnose early immune responses in patients, providing a more accurate assessment of blood health.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Bioengineering·DateJan 2, 2018

New hope for stopping an understudied heart disease in its tracks

Scientists have made breakthroughs in understanding the early stages of CAVD by studying pig valves and creating a lab model. They found that certain sugar molecules called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) can increase blood vessel growth, but also trap low-density lipoprotein (LDL) molecules.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 25, 2017

LDL cholesterol, the main modifiable predictor of atherosclerosis in individuals with no risk factor

A new study by CNIC researchers found that LDL-C is the main predictor of atherosclerotic plaques in individuals with no risk factors, such as hypertension or smoking. The study suggests that reducing LDL-C levels can help prevent the appearance of atherosclerosis.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateDec 11, 2017

Naturally occurring molecule may help prevent and treat atherosclerosis and gum disease

Researchers found that topical application of Resolvin E1 on gum tissues prevented and treated gum disease, while also reducing the likelihood of advanced arterial plaque rupture. The study suggests effective preventive and therapeutic treatments for heart disease and gum disease without unwanted side effects.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalCurrent Atherosclerosis Reports·DateNov 16, 2017
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.

Fight against top killer atherosclerosis garners acclaimed NIH award

A team of researchers, led by Tony Kim, has developed an innovative lab chip called the human-coronary-artery-on-a-chip to explore new treatments for atherosclerosis. The study aims to improve understanding of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) interactions with proinflammatory proteins and vascular tissues.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateOct 5, 2017

Skipping breakfast associated with hardening of the arteries

Researchers found skipping breakfast associated with increased risk of atherosclerosis and poorer cardiometabolic health. Participants who skipped breakfast had higher waist circumference, blood pressure, and fasting glucose levels.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateOct 2, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

Vaccine that lowers cholesterol offers hope of immunizing against cardiovascular disease

A study published in the European Heart Journal shows a vaccine that lowers cholesterol may be effective in preventing cardiovascular disease. The AT04A vaccine, administered to genetically modified mice, reduced cholesterol levels by 53% and induced long-lasting antibodies against PCSK9, an enzyme contributing to high cholesterol.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateJun 19, 2017

Running multiple marathons does not increase risk of atherosclerosis

Researchers found that marathon running had no association with pre-atherosclerotic changes, but age was independently linked to stiffer arteries. The study suggests that runners can complete multiple marathons without increasing their risk of atherosclerosis.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateJun 7, 2017

Unveiling nasty act of trans-fatty acids in blood

Trans-fatty acids directly activate ASK1 kinase by enhancing extracellular ATP, promoting cell death in a more direct manner than previously thought. The study identifies several trans-fatty acid types that stimulate cell death, but not their corresponding cis-fatty acids, which have health benefits.

SourceTohoku University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMay 17, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Assessing heart disease risk is within arm's reach

Researchers at New York Institute of Technology found that the radial artery may be useful for assessing heart disease risk, as it exhibits positive correlations with key risk factors. This discovery could lead to a new way to measure systemic atherosclerosis and improve cardiovascular health monitoring.

SourceNew York Institute of Technology·JournalThe Anatomical Record·DateApr 14, 2017

Inflammation: It takes two to tango

A systematic analysis of chemokine interactions reveals two structural types with different functional effects on inflammation. The study identifies potential therapeutic targets using specially designed peptides that selectively inhibit atherosclerosis and acute inflammation.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 6, 2017
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.

Marshall School of Medicine team advances research on metabolic syndrome

The study demonstrates that pNaKtide attenuates the development of experimental nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and atherosclerosis in mice fed a Western diet. The researchers found improvements in insulin sensitivity, dyslipidemia, and cholesterol levels.

SourceMarshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 15, 2017

Laser-based camera improves view of the carotid artery

A new laser-based camera has been developed to improve the view of the carotid artery, allowing physicians to detect potential problem areas and monitor atherosclerosis. The technology uses high-resolution imaging to identify lesions and biological markers associated with increased stroke risk.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateFeb 10, 2017
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 role for mutated blood cells in heart disease?

A new study links mutations in blood cells to atherosclerosis, a leading cause of death in the elderly. The research found that accumulated DNA mutations in hematopoietic cells contribute to plaque formation and inflammation.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 19, 2017

A role for mutated blood cells in heart disease?

A recent study found that mutations in blood cells of elderly humans may contribute to atherosclerosis, a leading cause of death. The research suggests that hematopoietic mutations could be an age-dependent risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalScience·DateJan 19, 2017

Atherosclerosis: Endogenous peptide lowers cholesterol

Researchers have identified an endogenous peptide that reduces cholesterol levels in mice, inhibiting the development of atherosclerosis. The protein, human neutrophil peptide 1 (HNP1), binds to LDL in the bloodstream and induces rapid uptake by the liver, reducing hypercholesterolemia.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalEBioMedicine·DateJan 19, 2017

Activation of 2 genes linked to development of atherosclerosis

PARP9 and PARP14 have been identified as regulators of macrophage activation, a key factor in the development of atherosclerosis. The study found that silencing these genes had opposite effects on macrophage activation, with PARP14 increasing and PARP9 decreasing activation.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 28, 2016

A culprit cell that drives plaque buildup in arteries

Researchers found that removing aging macrophages from atherosclerosis-prone mice reduced plaque buildup by 60%, suggesting a potential cellular target for therapy. The study also showed that suppressing senescence limited disease progression and reduced markers of plaque instability.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 27, 2016
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.

Mayo Clinic research links senescent cells and atherosclerosis progression

Senescent cells drive the formation of fatty streaks in animal models of atherosclerosis. These lesions progress to larger plaques through the recruitment of immune cells, ultimately leading to unstable plaques prone to rupture. Eliminating senescent cells selectively can reduce plaque size and preserve cap integrity.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalScience·DateOct 27, 2016

Promoting regulatory T cell production may help control atherosclerosis

Research led by Catherine Hedrick found that removing ATP-binding cassette transporter G1 (ABCG1) from immune cells increases regulatory T cell production, decreases pro-inflammatory T cells, and reduces atherosclerotic lesions in mice. This suggests that therapies targeting ABCG1 could help control atherosclerosis.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 2, 2016
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.

Nearly half of all heart attacks may be 'silent'

According to new research, nearly half of all heart attacks are 'silent', with symptoms appearing so mild that they are barely noticed. Silent heart attacks increase the risk of dying from heart disease and other causes, and can be as deadly as those with classic symptoms.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMay 16, 2016

Improved insulin signaling reduces atherosclerosis in mouse models

Researchers found that increased insulin signaling reduces atherosclerosis development and improves aorta function in atherosclerosis-prone mice. The anti-atherogenic effects were linked to induction of nitric oxide and activation of downstream pathways, including endothelin receptor B (EDNRB).

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJCI Insight·DateMay 5, 2016

Could a combined dietary supplement help ward off heart disease?

A combined dietary supplement of marine fish oil, cocoa extract, and phytosterols could potentially prevent atherosclerosis by inhibiting key processes associated with its progression. The study found that combining these ingredients helped halt the progression of atherosclerosis in cell-based models.

SourceCardiff University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 25, 2016

Ring-shaped sugar helps in cases of atherosclerosis

Researchers at the University of Bonn discovered that cyclodextrin promotes the breakdown of cholesterol deposits in arteries, reducing inflammation and plaque formation. The ring-shaped sugar increases natural mechanisms for cholesterol breakdown and reduces inflammatory response, offering a potential new treatment for atherosclerosis.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 6, 2016
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.

Early use of postmenopausal hormone therapy may prevent heart disease

Researchers found that taking hormone therapy within six years of menopause can slow the buildup of plaque in arteries and prevent heart disease. The study suggests that timing is crucial for the effectiveness of hormone therapy in preventing atherosclerosis progression.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 30, 2016

Heart arrhythmia drug may fight plaque buildup in blood vessels

Researchers found that digoxin decreased levels of total cholesterol and triglycerides by 41% and 54%, respectively, in mice treated with high-dose digoxin. Digoxin also lowered LDL-cholesterol levels by 20%. The study suggests a potential link between the drug and reduced plaque buildup.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Pharmacology·DateFeb 16, 2016

More evidence found on potential harmful effects of e-cigarettes

Research by UofL professor Daniel J. Conklin found e-cigarettes may cause atherosclerosis, a plaque-causing disease leading to heart attacks and strokes. The study exposed mice to varying levels of e-cigarette aerosol, tobacco smoke, or nicotine alone, revealing that multiple constituents have cardiovascular disease-causing potential.

SourceUniversity of Louisville·DateFeb 11, 2016

Necroptosis: How crystals precipitate cell death

Researchers at LMU Munich uncover the mechanism by which crystalline deposits induce cell death, revealing a regulated process leading to necroptosis and inflammation. This discovery offers new targets for therapies and potentially improves treatment of conditions like gout and atherosclerosis.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 28, 2016

Drugging the microbiome may treat heart disease

Researchers discovered a compound that targets gut microbes to prevent heart disease by preventing the formation of toxic metabolic byproducts. This new approach may provide a whole new strategy for treating cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateDec 17, 2015
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.

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.

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.

Periodontitis and heart disease: Researchers connect the molecular dots

Periodontitis has been shown to increase the expression of pro-inflammatory angiopoietin 2, while decreasing anti-inflammatory angiopoietin 1 in aortic smooth muscle cells, leading to increased inflammation and atherosclerosis. This study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms linking periodontitis to heart disease.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalInfection and Immunity·DateSep 11, 2015

Testing testosterone: Trial finds no link to hardening of the arteries

A three-year clinical trial found no link between testosterone administration and atherosclerosis progression, sexual function, or quality of life in older men. The study suggests that testosterone should not be used indiscriminately by men, as it may not provide benefits for these outcomes.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA·DateAug 11, 2015
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.

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.

UNC researchers find 2 biomarkers linked to severe heart disease

Researchers at UNC School of Medicine have discovered two biomarkers - oxidized LDL cholesterol and fructosamine - that are strongly correlated with the development of severe coronary disease in females. Elevated levels of these biomarkers were found to be a strong predictor of severe heart disease, particularly in women.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 6, 2015