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Lowering blood pressure and cholesterol may not improve thinking and memory

A new study published in Neurology has found that medications commonly used to lower blood pressure and cholesterol do not slow down cognitive decline in older adults. The study, which involved over 1,600 participants, suggests that longer studies are needed to determine the effects of these medications on brain health.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 27, 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.

The 'blue' in blueberries can help lower blood pressure

A new study found that eating 200g of blueberries daily for a month improves blood vessel function and reduces systolic blood pressure in healthy people. Anthocyanins, a type of phytochemical responsible for blueberry's color, play a key role in this effect.

SourceKing's College London·JournalThe Journals of Gerontology Series A·DateFeb 20, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Stroke survivors' beliefs seem to reduce blood pressure

Researchers found that stroke survivors who believe they can protect themselves from having another stroke have significantly lower blood pressure. The study revealed nearly 78% of adults agreed they could protect themselves, leading to a 6.44 mm Hg reduction in systolic blood pressure.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJan 30, 2019

Cycling and treadmill workstations may be 'healthier' than standing options

A systematic review of available evidence suggests that cycling and treadmill workstations are associated with greater short-term physiological changes compared to standing versions. Both types boosted heart rate, energy expenditure, and reduced blood pressure. However, treadmill versions interfered with keyboarding skills.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateJan 28, 2019

Does intensive blood pressure control reduce dementia?

The SPRINT MIND trial found that intensive lowering of systolic blood pressure did not significantly reduce dementia risk, but had a measurable impact on mild cognitive impairment. The study demonstrated that intensive blood pressure control is safe for the brain and may offer avenues for prevention.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Aging·JournalJAMA·DateJan 28, 2019
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.

Lowering blood pressure reduces risk of cognitive impairment

A clinical trial led by Wake Forest School of Medicine found that intensive control of blood pressure significantly reduced the risk of developing mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in older people. MCI is a precursor to early dementia and increases the risk of dementia progression, but reversion to normal cognition is possible.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJAMA·DateJan 28, 2019

Discovery could advance blood pressure treatments

A team of researchers has discovered genetic associations with blood pressure that could guide future treatments for patients with hypertension. Over 250 new genetic variants and 400 new genes associated with blood pressure were identified, suggesting existing drugs may be used to lower blood pressure.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 24, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Home-based hypertension program produces 'striking' results

A pilot study at Brigham and Women's Hospital found that an innovative home-based care-delivery program helped 81% of participants achieve blood pressure control in seven weeks. The program used Bluetooth-enabled blood pressure devices and patient navigators to facilitate rapid assessment and medication adjustments.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalClinical Cardiology·DateJan 18, 2019

Exposure to chemicals during pregnancy is not associated with an increase in blood pressure

A recent study published in the International Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health found no association between exposure to certain chemicals during pregnancy and an increase in blood pressure. In fact, higher exposure to phthalates, BPA, and parabens was linked to a decrease in blood pressure, particularly in the second trimester.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalInternational Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health·DateJan 18, 2019

High-fat diets appear bad for blood pressure in younger males and females

A recent study found that high-fat diets significantly increase blood pressure in both young male and female rats, with comparable effects on males and females. The study also showed sex differences in inflammation response, where females maintained a higher percentage of Tregs, which help decrease blood pressure.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateJan 8, 2019
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

New data show barbershop blood pressure checks remain highly effective

A recent study by the Smidt Heart Institute at Cedars-Sinai shows that a pharmacist-led intervention at barbershops can significantly lower blood pressure in high-risk African-American men. After 12 months, the average systolic blood pressure fell by nearly 29mmHg in the intervention group.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalCirculation·DateDec 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.

Study points to optimal blood pressure treatment for stroke patients

Researchers found that maintaining systolic blood pressure at around 140 mmHg experienced fewer negative health outcomes, such as second strokes, death or cardiovascular disease. The findings provide some clarity for physicians, but more research is needed to confirm the optimal level of blood pressure.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalAmerican Journal of Hypertension·DateDec 10, 2018

Home blood pressure assessments are more accurate than office checks

A recent editorial suggests that home blood pressure monitoring is more accurate than traditional office assessments, due to the phenomenon of white coat syndrome. This can lead to misdiagnosis and inadequate treatment for patients with high blood pressure.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalJAMA·DateNov 21, 2018
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.

Study of two tribes sheds light on role of Western-influenced diet in blood pressure

A South American tribe living in near-total isolation shows no increase in average blood pressure from age one to age 60, contrasting with a nearby tribe exposed to Western dietary influences. The findings support the idea that exposure to Western diet and lifestyle may contribute to age-related blood pressure rise.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateNov 14, 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.

Your heart hates air pollution; portable filters could help

Researchers found that using low-cost portable air purifiers at home significantly lowered urban seniors' fine particulate matter exposure and blood pressure. The study showed a 40% reduction in air pollutant exposure and an average of 3.4 mm Hg decrease in systolic blood pressure.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateNov 13, 2018

Blue light can reduce blood pressure

Exposure to whole-body blue light significantly reduces systolic blood pressure by almost 8 mmHg, similar to blood pressure lowering drugs. Blue light also improves other cardiovascular risk markers such as arterial stiffness and increased blood vessel relaxation.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateNov 8, 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.

Elevated blood pressure in people under 40 poses hazard of developing CVD prematurely

Two new studies link high blood pressure to premature cardiovascular disease in adults younger than 40, emphasizing the need for better understanding of its causes and prevention strategies. Experts suggest that lifestyle measures such as regular physical exercise and weight management can help maintain optimal blood pressure levels.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateNov 6, 2018

Violent crime raises blood pressure even among those living in safe areas

Research found that rising violent crime rates were associated with higher odds of high blood pressure among residents living in low-crime communities, even if they weren't directly exposed to crime. The study suggests that the environment affects heart health and stress responses can vary between neighborhoods.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 5, 2018

Stroke survivors and those at risk urged to focus on yoga and tai chi

A new study suggests that mindfulness-based interventions like yoga and tai chi can lower blood pressure, improve diabetics' health, and boost antioxidants. These practices may help reduce stroke risk by mitigating key factors such as hypertension, fatty acids, and blood sugar levels.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalFuture Neurology·DateNov 5, 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.

Solving a 100-year mystery in blood pressure research

A new Scripps Research study reveals how specialized neurons detect changes in blood pressure and maintain cardiovascular homeostasis. The researchers identified two proteins, PIEZO1 and PIEZO2, that play a crucial role in the baroreceptor reflex, which has significant implications for treating drug-resistant hypertension.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalScience·DateOct 30, 2018

Home monitoring confirms clinic diagnosis of high blood pressure

A new study by the American Heart Association confirms that home blood pressure monitoring can diagnose high blood pressure in US adults. The research found that readings of 130/80 mmHg or higher taken at home are consistent with clinic measurements, providing a reliable method for identifying hypertension.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateOct 29, 2018

Novel insights into the heart health benefits of cocoa flavanols and procyanidins

A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that cocoa flavanols, especially (−)-epicatechin, improve blood vessel function and lower blood pressure. Flavanol-only groups experienced all benefits, while procyanidin-enriched extracts showed reduced cholesterol without improvements in vascular effects.

SourceCNC Communications·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateOct 26, 2018
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.

Study questions certain treatments for diabetic patients at high risk for heart disease

A study of over 10,000 participants with type 2 diabetes found that intensive blood sugar control and targeting low blood pressure reduced the risk of macroalbuminuria, but had no impact on more significant kidney outcomes. The use of fenofibrate to lower cholesterol increased the risk for doubling of serum creatinine.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateOct 25, 2018

Could wearable technology help patients monitor blood pressure?

A study demonstrates that pulse wave velocity shows promise as a measurement to monitor blood pressure levels. Continuous, cuffless and non-invasive monitoring using wearable patches could provide an inexpensive option for patients with high blood pressure.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 24, 2018

Kidneys aren't harmed when significantly lowering blood pressure

Researchers found that aggressive blood pressure treatment does not damage the kidneys themselves, but rather leads to decreased blood flow. This discovery challenges previous beliefs and offers new hope for patients with hypertension.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateOct 23, 2018

Continuous blood pressure monitoring

Researchers have developed an analytical model linking blood pressure to pulse wave velocity, validated by human participant experiments. This method could enable future development of continuous blood pressure monitoring systems.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 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.

Faith-based approach to changing lifestyle lowers blood pressure

A church-based program combining faith-based lifestyle change with motivational interviewing significantly lowered systolic blood pressure by 5.8 mm Hg, compared to an educational program alone. The study found that the intervention was effective in improving blood pressure control and could be a routine practice in places of worship.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateOct 9, 2018

Largest ever genetic study of blood pressure

A massive genetic analysis of over one million people has revealed 535 new genes linked to high blood pressure. The discovery sheds light on new biological pathways for blood pressure regulation and holds promise for improved cardiovascular disease prevention.

SourceLancaster University·JournalNature Genetics·DateOct 8, 2018
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.

Using personal data to predict blood pressure

Engineers at UC San Diego developed an algorithm to predict individual blood pressure based on sleep, exercise, and blood pressure data from wearable devices. The study found that personalized data was more effective than generalized information in lowering blood pressure.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateOct 4, 2018

Study finds more belly fat, less muscle after crash dieting

A new study found that extreme dieting in female rats led to a decrease in metabolic factors and functions, including body weight and blood pressure, but resulted in a higher accumulation of abdominal fat. This increase in belly fat may cause long-term health risks for people who have previously crash dieted.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·DateOct 2, 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.

Drug cocktail may treat postmenopausal PCOS complications

Researchers found a combination of liraglutide and enalapril effectively addresses all symptoms of postmenopausal polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), including metabolic syndrome. The treatment promotes significant weight loss, reduces insulin resistance, and normalizes blood pressure.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·DateOct 1, 2018

OHSU discovers molecular channel that regulates blood pressure

Researchers at OHSU have discovered the three-dimensional structure of a membrane channel critical in controlling blood pressure. The breakthrough provides a starting point for developing better treatments for diseases associated with this channel, including severe hypertension and heart failure.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·DateSep 25, 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.

Diagnosing and treating resistant hypertension

Resistant hypertension affects 12-15% of patients with high blood pressure, who require three or more medications to control it. Improving lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, and weight can lower blood pressure.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalHYPERTENSION·DateSep 13, 2018