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High efficiency synthesis of insulin by self-assembly based organic chemistry

Researchers have developed a new method for synthesizing insulin using self-assembly of polypeptide chains, achieving a 40% efficiency rate. This approach enables the production of customized insulin compounds without relying on genetic engineering, which could lead to the development of novel insulin preparations.

SourceTohoku University·JournalCommunications Chemistry·DateMay 10, 2018

Diabetes UK commits £2.6 million to new research

Diabetes UK has committed £2.6 million to 19 new research projects investigating medieval remedies for foot ulcers, sleep disturbances as a predictor of Type 2 diabetes, and other forms of diabetes. The funding aims to reduce amputations, sepsis cases, and improve treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·DateApr 26, 2018

Culprit in reducing effectiveness of insulin identified

Researchers discovered that Stromal derived factor-1 (SDF-1) secreted from adipocytes reduces insulin effectiveness and glucose uptake in cells. In SDF-1 knockout mice, insulin-induced glucose uptake increased and insulin efficacy improved.

SourceOsaka University·JournalDiabetes·DateApr 25, 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.

Implantable islet cells come with their own oxygen supply

A new implantable device could help insulin-producing cells live longer after transplant and improve treatment of type 1 diabetes. The device, developed by MIT researchers, supplies oxygen to transplanted islet cells, allowing them to remain viable for several months and maintain normal blood glucose levels.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 25, 2018

Artificial pancreas is a safe and effective treatment for type 1 diabetes

A review of 41 trials involving over 1000 people with type 1 diabetes found that artificial pancreas systems provided almost two and a half extra hours of normal blood glucose levels per day. The treatment also reduced time spent in both hyperglycaemia and hypoglycaemia compared to other types of insulin-based therapy.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateApr 18, 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-energy breakfast promotes weight loss

A new study from Israel found that a diet with three meals per day, including a high-energy breakfast, promotes weight loss and improves diabetes control in obese type 2 diabetes patients. The study showed significant reductions in glucose levels, insulin dosage, and hunger.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateMar 18, 2018

Low-fat or low-carb? It's a draw, Stanford study finds

A Stanford University School of Medicine study found that cutting carbs or fats results in similar weight loss, with no association between individual biological factors and diet success. Participants followed either a low-fat or low-carb diet for one year, showing that the fundamental strategy for losing weight is to eat whole foods.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 20, 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.

How the insulin receptor works

Researchers from Helmholtz Munich successfully visualize insulin receptor activation for the first time, revealing a structural change that propagates across the plasma membrane to initiate signaling cascades. This breakthrough sheds new light on insulin's biological actions and has implications for understanding diabetes and cancer.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateFeb 19, 2018

Type-2 diabetes: Insulin held up in traffic

A study by Uppsala University researchers reveals that a vesicle attachment defect is the root cause of insulin secretion problems in type-2 diabetes. The defect leads to slowed arrival of new insulin-containing vesicles at the cell membrane, resulting in insufficient insulin release.

SourceUppsala University·JournalCell Metabolism·DateFeb 6, 2018
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.

New clinical trial accepting patients, hopes to ease type 1 diabetes management

A new nationwide clinical trial aims to make managing type 1 diabetes easier for patients using the world's first hybrid closed-loop system automated insulin delivery device. The trial, funded by Medtronic, will monitor blood glucose levels and adjust insulin doses continuously to help patients maintain stable blood sugar levels.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateDec 18, 2017

Russian scientists developed new approaches to treating diabetes

Researchers from Ural Federal University and Russian Academy of Sciences developed new methods to treat type 1 diabetes by using anti-diabetic chemical compounds. The study showed that these compounds can help reduce glucose levels and increase insulin production in lab rats with diabetes.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalBiomedicine & Pharmacotherapy·DateDec 11, 2017

Type 1 diabetes as common in adults as children, but many adults misdiagnosed

Research published in the Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology found that over 40% of type 1 diabetes cases occur after age 30, and many adults are initially misdiagnosed with type 2. Type 1 diabetes requires insulin treatment to control blood sugar levels, while type 2 can often be managed with diet and medication.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateNov 30, 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.

Diabetes: Immune system can regulate insulin

Scientists at University of Basel find feedback mechanism to maintain insulin production in overweight patients, using ILC2 immune cells and retinoic acid. The study highlights the complex interactions between endocrine and immune cells in regulating insulin release.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalImmunity·DateNov 21, 2017

Can an insulin pill delay or prevent type 1 diabetes?

A daily insulin pill did not slow down or prevent type 1 diabetes development among individuals with a higher risk of developing the disease. The trial involved 560 participants who received either oral insulin or a placebo, and found that time to diagnosis was not significantly different between groups.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateNov 21, 2017

Simplified method allows CGM users to leverage trend arrow data

Experts developed a streamlined approach to using Dexcom G5 Mobile Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) trend arrow data. The new tool helps individuals with diabetes adjust insulin doses more accurately, reducing dangerous fluctuations and long-term complications.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalJournal of the Endocrine Society·DateNov 20, 2017
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.

Targeting a microRNA shows potential to enhance effectiveness of diabetes drugs

Researchers found that inhibiting microRNA-204 could lead to better treatment of diabetes by regulating the cell surface receptor GLP1R. This could result in lower-drug doses and reduced dose-dependent side effects. The study suggests a novel approach to targeting beta-cell function and improving glucose control.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalDiabetes·DateNov 7, 2017

Study refutes using anti-malaria drug to treat diabetes

A recent study from UC Davis researchers refutes the use of an anti-malaria drug to create new insulin-producing cells for Type 1 diabetes treatment. The findings highlight the crucial need for reproducibility in scientific research, contradicting a previous report that sparked excitement in the field.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalCell Metabolism·DateNov 3, 2017

Smart artificial beta cells could lead to new diabetes treatment

Artificial beta cells mimic the body's natural glucose-controllers and can be subcutaneously inserted into patients or delivered via a painless skin patch. In lab experiments and animal models, they demonstrated rapid responsiveness to excess glucose levels and normalized blood glucose levels in diabetic mice.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateOct 30, 2017

Diabetes researchers discover potential new insulin sensitizers

Scientists at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have identified several compounds that selectively inhibit FOXO1, improving insulin sensitivity and reducing glucose production in the liver. These findings offer a promising approach to developing new, safer treatments for diabetes.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalCell·DateOct 24, 2017
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.

New obesity treatment lowers body weight in mice, rats and primates

Researchers developed an engineered protein therapy based on the GDF15 molecule to treat obesity. The treatment successfully lowered body weights, insulin levels, and cholesterol in obese mice, rats, and primates.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 18, 2017

A new role for insulin as a vital factor in maintaining stem cells

A new study reveals that insulin is essential for preserving pluripotent stem cells' ability to become any cell type. Insufficient insulin leads to a specialized endoderm cell type, similar to early embryonic cells, suggesting potential importance in human development and pregnancy.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateSep 26, 2017

Injection alternative

The new model predicts how glucose-responsive insulin (GRI) will affect patients' blood sugar levels based on chemical traits. The MIT team identified several strong GRI candidates and plans to test them in animals.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Chemistry·DateSep 26, 2017

New study on reasons for low rates of blood glucose monitoring in type 2 diabetes in China

A Chinese study found very low rates of blood glucose monitoring among nearly 19,000 patients with type 2 diabetes before and after initiating basal insulin treatment. The data showed an increase in mean SMBG frequency after 6 months, but the percentage of patients who never monitored their blood glucose remained high.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalDiabetes Technology & Therapeutics·DateSep 21, 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.

A new approach to high insulin levels

Congenital hyperinsulinism is caused by a genetic mutation that leads to permanent activation of the GDH protein, resulting in excessive insulin production. This triggers chronic hypoglycaemia, brain damage, and intellectual retardation. A new study may pave the way for novel therapies, including a drug that inhibits the GDH accelerator.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateSep 18, 2017

Type 2 diabetes is a reversible condition

A low-calorie diet has been shown to reverse Type 2 diabetes by reducing liver and pancreatic fat content, allowing insulin production to resume. The reversal of diabetes remains possible for up to 10 years after onset with sustained weight loss.

SourceNewcastle University·DateSep 13, 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.

Compounds in cocoa may help delay onset of type 2 diabetes

Researchers discovered that epicatechin monomers in cocoa enhance beta cells' ability to secrete insulin, improving blood glucose control. The study suggests these compounds could potentially delay or prevent type 2 diabetes onset in patients.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalThe Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry·DateAug 28, 2017

HIIT helps combat high insulin resistance -- a warning sign for diabetes

A new study suggests that High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is an efficient way to combat high insulin resistance, a warning sign for diabetes. HIIT improved blood pressure and glucose levels in women at risk of type 2 diabetes, with the greatest benefits seen in those with higher insulin resistance.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateAug 16, 2017

New measure of insulin-making cells could gauge diabetes progression, treatment

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a new measurement for the volume and activity of beta cells, which are responsible for producing insulin. The new test uses PET scanning to detect minute levels of a radioactive chemical in the mouse pancreas, providing a more accurate assessment of insulin production.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalDiabetes·DateAug 10, 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.

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 insulin in the brain may suppress the subjective feeling of hunger

Researchers found that intranasal insulin improves functional connectivity in brain regions involved in cognitive processes and appetite regulation. The study suggests that insulin in the brain may help regulate eating behavior and facilitate weight loss by suppressing the relationship between adiposity and hunger sensation.

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 23, 2017

Diabetes patients still produce insulin

A recent study published in Diabetes Care found that almost half of patients with type 1 diabetes for over ten years still produce some insulin. Higher levels of interleukin-35 were detected in these patients, suggesting a link between this protein and the regeneration of remaining insulin-producing cells.

SourceUppsala University·JournalDiabetes Care·DateJun 22, 2017

Is the finger-stick blood test necessary for type 2 diabetes treatment?

A large pragmatic trial found that checking finger-stick blood sugars did not offer significant advantages in blood sugar control or quality of life for non-insulin treated type 2 diabetes patients. The study suggests that the costs of home blood glucose monitoring may outweigh its benefits for this population.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 10, 2017

Home monitoring of blood sugar did not improve glycemic control after 1 year

A randomized trial found that self-monitoring of blood glucose levels in patients with non-insulin-treated type 2 diabetes did not improve glycemic control or health-related quality of life after one year. The study suggested that SMBG should not be routine for most patients, contradicting existing practice.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 10, 2017
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.

A small group of neurons modulates the amount of insulin that the pancreas must produce

Researchers discovered that a small group of hypothalamus neurons, called POMC, modulate the amount of insulin produced by the pancreas. The study reveals new molecular mechanisms involved in this connection and highlights the importance of mitochondrial dynamics in glucose sensing and insulin release control.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJun 7, 2017

Metabolism: Beta cells under fire

Fatty acid esters disrupt insulin synthesis and lead to beta cell dysfunction in type 2 diabetes. High-resolution mass spectrometry imaging reveals an imbalance in insulin production and secretion, affecting the function of pancreatic islets.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJun 7, 2017

Newly discovered disease mechanism for type 2 diabetes

A newly discovered mechanism behind reduced insulin production in type 2 diabetes reveals that insulin-producing cells regress and become immature, reducing their function. The study identifies key genes, including SOX5, which affects disease progression and suggests potential new treatments targeting cellular maturity.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 6, 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.

Designing better drugs to treat type 2 diabetes

Two studies have shown how new potential anti-diabetic drugs interact with their target in the body, reducing blood sugar by increasing sensitivity to insulin and changing metabolism of fat and sugar. Researchers are now designing modified drugs that will work even more efficiently.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateMay 17, 2017

Novel tissue-engineered islet transplant achieves insulin independence in type 1 diabetes

Scientists at the Diabetes Research Institute have successfully transplanted tissue-engineered islet cells into a patient with type 1 diabetes, achieving long-term insulin independence. The omentum tissue site has been found to be a viable alternative for islet implantation, minimizing inflammatory reactions.

SourceDiabetes Research Institute Foundation·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 10, 2017

UT Health diabetes breakthrough increases insulin-producing cells

Researchers at UT Health San Antonio have developed a gene-transfer technique that increases insulin-producing cells, potentially curing Type 1 and improving Type 2 diabetes. The therapy has cured diabetes in mice without side effects, offering a major advance over traditional insulin therapy.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·DateMay 5, 2017
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.

Smartphone-controlled cells help keep diabetes in check

Researchers created custom cells that produce insulin when illuminated by far-red light, allowing for remote control via smartphone application. This innovation enables instant feedback between therapeutic cells and diagnostic devices, promoting stable blood glucose levels in diabetic animals.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 26, 2017

KU Leuven researchers unravel how stevia controls blood sugar levels

Stevia stimulates the ion channel TRPM5, which is involved in taste perception and insulin release, helping to prevent abnormally high blood sugar levels and type 2 diabetes. The study opens up new possibilities for treating diabetes, but further research is needed before new treatments can be developed.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 11, 2017