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Synthetic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS linked to liver damage

A new study systematically reviews data on PFAS exposure and liver damage, linking three commonly detected PFAS to elevated levels of a liver enzyme, ALT. The research suggests a potential link between PFAS and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a growing public health crisis affecting 25% of adults worldwide.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 27, 2022
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.

Product label changes do not prevent accidental acetaminophen overdoses

A Canadian study of over 12,000 hospital admissions found that updated product label changes did not reduce rates of accidental acetaminophen overdose. The study suggests additional measures are needed to prevent these episodes beyond just labeling changes.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 19, 2022

Experimental Biology 2022 press materials available now

This year's Experimental Biology 2022 meeting features groundbreaking studies on COVID-19 vaccine-associated symptoms in non-menstruating people, a plant compound showing promise for alleviating food allergies, and the potential of omega-3s to boost immunotherapy's cancer-fighting power. Researchers also explore the safety of using CBD...

SourceExperimental Biology·DateMar 25, 2022

Globins - on the hunt to protect your liver

Researchers at Osaka City University found that globin family members can suppress liver inflammation and fibrosis in mice. The proteins' antioxidant capacity was greater than glutathione and vitamin C, suggesting a potential therapy for liver fibrosis.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalRedox Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 23, 2022
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.

Journal of Hepatology COVID-19 news brief

Research in the Journal of Hepatology suggests that COVID-19 vaccines are unlikely to cause liver injury, but liver transplant patients may experience delayed care due to the pandemic. The study found that vaccinated patients with liver disease had a lower antibody response compared to healthy patients.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Hepatology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 21, 2022

CNIO researchers identify a mechanism that causes liver cirrhosis

Researchers have identified a molecular mechanism underlying liver cirrhosis, a deadly disease poorly understood. The discovery, made using genetically modified mice, reveals that the lack of MCRS1 protein leads to bile acid accumulation and fibrosis, opening new avenues for treatment.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalJournal of Hepatology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 18, 2022

Spaceflight wreaks havoc on liver metabolism

A study found that spaceflight alters liver gene expression and reduces antioxidant capacity in mice, leading to increased oxidative stress. However, exposure to artificial gravity can mitigate some of these effects, suggesting potential for dietary supplementation to offset changes during spaceflight.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 6, 2021

Antiviral treatment for hepatitis C virus reduces risk of post-treatment liver cancer progression, study shows

A cohort study of 165 patients with hepatitis C-related hepatocellular carcinoma found that treating the virus with direct-acting antivirals reduces tumor progression and metastasis. The study showed a 72% reduction in tumor progression and an 88% reduction in risk of death from HCC.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalJournal of Viral Hepatitis·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 24, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

AGA recommends change in testing protocol for cirrhosis patients

The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) has released new clinical guidelines that recommend against extensive preprocedural testing to estimate clotting in patients with cirrhosis. This change aims to reduce the risk of morbidity and mortality associated with unnecessary blood clotting tests.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGastroenterology·DateNov 3, 2021
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.

Hepatotoxicity reports in the FDA adverse event reporting system database

This study compared drugs associated with hepatotoxicity in the FDA's FAERS database, finding that mitochondrial mechanisms are a leading cause of drug-induced liver injury. The top four drugs with the highest risk were associated with mitochondrial mechanisms, and older patients and females were more likely to be affected.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalActa Pharmaceutica Sinica B·DateSep 2, 2021

'Good cholesterol' may protect liver

A study in mice and human blood samples found that HDL3 protects the liver by blocking gut bacterial signals that cause inflammation. The researchers identified a special type of HDL called HDL3 that is produced by the intestine, which blocks lipopolysaccharide signals that activate immune cells.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience·DateJul 22, 2021

Study shows simple blood test could detect liver injury earlier

Researchers have developed a simple blood test that can detect acute liver damage earlier than current methods. The test uses gold nanoparticles to target the antioxidant glutathione, which is depleted in damaged liver cells. This early detection could lead to faster recovery and improved treatment outcomes for patients with liver injury.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 10, 2021
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.

Cytoglobin: key player in preventing liver disease

Cytoglobin has been identified as a key player in delaying liver fibrosis progression in mice. The enhancement of CYGB on hepatic stellate cells or intravenous injection of recombinant CYGB suppresses liver damage and cirrhosis. This discovery holds promise for developing new anti-fibrotic therapy for human chronic liver diseases.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalHepatology·DateFeb 16, 2021

A gene mutation that protects against disease

Researchers have discovered a gene mutation that protects against liver disease and may offer a 'fountain of youth' for French-Canadian families. The PCSK9Q152H mutation has been found to lower bad cholesterol and prevent cardiovascular diseases, allowing individuals to live longer and healthier into their late 80s and mid-90s.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 19, 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.

Hangover drug shows wider benefits in USC research

Researchers found dihydromyricetin (DHM) activates mechanisms that quickly metabolize alcohol and reduce liver harm. The study supports DHM as a dietary supplement to offset acute and long-term risks of alcohol consumption.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateApr 7, 2020

Lactobacillus balances gut microbiome and improves chronic-alcohol-induced liver injury

Researchers found that Lactobacillus rhamnosus can restore a balanced intestinal microbiome and counter liver damage caused by chronic alcohol consumption. The probiotic effect of the bacteria reduced inflammation and fat accumulation in the liver, indicating potential therapeutic applications for alcohol-induced liver disease.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Medicinal Food·DateDec 9, 2019

A tiny cry for help from inside the liver could lead to better treatment

A new study finds that an enzyme involved in liver function also triggers a protective response when liver cells are damaged. By boosting the levels of this enzyme, researchers hope to develop new treatments for acute liver injury.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 8, 2019

New insights on liver injury in men taking body building supplements

Researchers found that men taking bodybuilding supplements experienced prolonged and difficult-to-treat liver injuries, often accompanied by jaundice and generalized itching. The study also revealed that many products contained illicit anabolic steroids not accurately listed on the label.

SourceWiley·JournalAlimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics·DateApr 3, 2019
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.

MANF identified as a rejuvenating factor in parabiosis

Researchers from the Buck Institute report that MANF regulates metabolism and immune response, and replenishing it shows promise as an anti-aging treatment. MANF deficiency has hallmarks of age-related diseases, including inflammation and liver damage.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalNature Metabolism·DateJan 14, 2019

Pyronaridine-artesunate for treating uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria

Researchers found pyronaridine-artesunate to be as effective as currently used artemisinin-based combination therapies for treating uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria. Mild liver injuries were observed in some patients but no severe damage was reported. The treatment holds promise for areas with rising artemisinin resistance.

SourceLiverpool School of Tropical Medicine·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateJan 8, 2019

Breakthrough for treatment of fibrotic diseases

Scientists have found a drug combination that can halt the progression of fibrosis, a condition responsible for almost half of all deaths. The study, published in European Urology, tested a combination of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors and selective oestrogen receptor modulators on cells and animals.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalEuropean Urology·DateNov 5, 2018

Researchers discover molecule involved in the repair of liver wounds

A new study reveals that CD26/DPP-4 is a key player in the regeneration of acute liver wounds and may serve as a valuable biomarker for detecting hepatic disease. The molecule's enzymatic activity was shown to increase with reduced liver immune cell population, suggesting its potential use in non-invasive diagnosis.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalHepatology Communications·DateSep 26, 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.

New scientific study: no safe level of alcohol

A new scientific study reveals that there is no safe level of drinking alcohol, with nearly 3 million deaths globally attributed to alcohol use in 2016. The study finds massive health risks associated with alcohol consumption, including premature death, cancer, and cardiovascular problems.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 23, 2018

Nutmeg's hidden power: Helping the liver

Researchers have discovered how nutmeg helps protect the liver, using a mouse animal model of liver toxicity. The spice was shown to restore healthy levels of lipids and acylcarnitines, and a specific compound, myrislignan, had a strong protective effect against liver damage.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Proteome Research·DateMay 9, 2018
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 spots overdose patients at risk of liver damage

A new blood test can accurately predict which patients are at risk of liver damage from paracetamol overdose, enabling targeted treatment and reducing hospital stays. The test detects three specific molecules associated with liver damage, allowing for earlier intervention and more effective care.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalThe Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology·DateNov 13, 2017

Molecule's role in maintaining liver size and function revealed

Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University have identified a molecule called YAP that determines whether liver cells proliferate or are eliminated, depending on the presence or absence of injury. This balance is crucial for maintaining organ structure and function.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 1, 2017
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.

Under pressure: Understanding how portal hypertension occurs following liver injury

Investigators at MUSC have identified a critical regulatory mechanism for nitric oxide production in liver endothelial cells following liver injury. The study reveals that inhibition of CAV1 or GRK2 phosphorylation compromises complex formation and reduces eNOS activity, leading to increased portal pressure.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateMay 1, 2017

p53 critical to recovering from acetaminophen overdose

Researchers found that the p53 protein plays a key role in preventing acetaminophen-induced liver damage and promoting regeneration. Activation of p53 helps prevent injury progression while inhibition stimulates liver repair, offering hope for new treatment options.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 26, 2017

Nutrient offers hope to stop deadly march toward cirrhosis, liver cancer

A new study found that supplements of DHA, an essential omega-3 fatty acid, can prevent the progression of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) into more serious health problems like cirrhosis and liver cancer. This breakthrough discovery offers hope to millions of people worldwide who struggle with obesity and poor diet.

SourceOregon State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 19, 2017
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.

Protein involved in blood clotting stimulates liver repair

Researchers at Michigan State University found that liver injury activates blood clotting, which then stimulates liver repair using an experimental model of high-dosage acetaminophen. The study identified fibrinogen as a critical protein in this process.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Hepatology·DateJan 18, 2017
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.

Oklahoma researchers find that a biological 'good guy' has a dark side

Researchers at Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation found that an enzyme thought to be beneficial can pose significant danger to developing embryos. They discovered excessive plasmin activity can lead to liver blood vessels becoming fragile and prone to bleeding.

SourceOklahoma Medical Research Foundation·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 4, 2016

Aerobic fitness may protect liver against chronic alcohol use

Researchers found that aerobic fitness protected against metabolic dysfunction in the liver, reducing inflammation and fatty deposits. Chronic alcohol ingestion did not cause significant changes in blood insulin or glucose levels, contrary to expectations.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalBiomolecules·DateFeb 15, 2016

Binge drinking with chronic alcohol use more destructive than previously thought

A recent study published in Biomolecules found that chronic alcohol use combined with repeated binge drinking causes significant liver damage, exceeding previous estimates. The research, conducted on mice, showed that mice exposed to both chronic and binge consumption exhibited the highest levels of liver injury.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalBiomolecules·DateDec 17, 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.

Cancer-causing parasite may accelerate wound healing

A cancer-causing parasitic worm has been discovered to drive wound healing and blood vessel growth, which could lead to accelerated recovery from chronic wounds such as diabetic ulcers. The growth factor secreted by the parasite also increases the risk of developing liver cancer over time.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateOct 20, 2015

Chili peppers hold promise of preventing liver damage and progression

Capsaicin, the active compound in chili peppers, has been found to have beneficial effects on liver damage. In a study, capsaicin reduced the activation of hepatic stellate cells, which are involved in liver fibrosis. The compound partially improved liver damage and inhibited further progression of the injury in mice models.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·DateApr 23, 2015

Crucial protective role observed for farnesoid-X receptor in cholestatic liver injury

Researchers observed a crucial protective role for farnesoid-X receptor in cholestatic liver injury, with oral FXR-agonist INT-747 normalizing dysfunctional intestinal FXR-signaling and changing in intestinal permeability, inflammation, and bacterial translocation. The study suggests potential new therapeutic avenues for liver disease.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateJan 29, 2015
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Dysfunctional ketogenesis promotes fatty liver disease in mice

A study in mice reveals that dysfunctional ketogenesis promotes fatty liver disease, characterized by excessive hepatic glucose and lipid production. The findings suggest targeting ketogenesis could be a viable approach to treating NAFLD.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 27, 2014

Preservation technique for marginal livers prevents biliary stricture

A new preservation technique, sequential subnormothermic ex vivo liver perfusion (SNEVLP), has been shown to prevent ischemic type biliary stricture following liver transplantation using grafts from donations after cardiac death (DCD). SNEVLP reduces bile duct and endothelial cell injury post-transplantation compared to cold storage.

SourceWiley·JournalLiver Transplantation·DateOct 21, 2014
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.