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Predicting the onset of diseases

Scientists developed a new mathematical model to predict disease onset risk using patient genomic data, providing improved predictive quality and personalized health risks for patients. The model can analyze large datasets of genetic markers linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 20, 2021
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.

Epidural use at birth not linked to autism risk, study finds

A study published by Stanford Medicine has found no link between epidural use during childbirth and an increased risk of autism in children. The research controlled for various socioeconomic, medical, and family factors, including genetic influences, to reach this conclusion.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateApr 19, 2021

Physical inactivity linked to more severe COVID-19 infection and death

A large US study found that physical inactivity is associated with more severe COVID-19 infection and a heightened risk of dying from the disease. Patients who were consistently inactive during the pandemic were more likely to be admitted to hospital, require intensive care, and die than those who met physical activity guidelines.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateApr 13, 2021
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.

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.

South Korea data helps create framework to identify COVID-19 vulnerable areas worldwide

A study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that South Korea's effective public health interventions and prompt measures helped decrease COVID-19 cases, particularly among socioeconomically disadvantaged populations.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateApr 7, 2021

Transportation noise pollution and cardio- and cerebrovascular disease

Epidemiological studies confirm that transportation noise increases cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, leading to ischaemic heart disease. The authors review the effects of noise on vascular dysfunction, inflammation, and hypertension, highlighting the need for noise-mitigation efforts and legislation.

SourceDpt of Cardiology - University Medical Center Mainz·JournalNature Reviews Cardiology·DateApr 6, 2021

Association of sociodemographic factors, blood type with risk of COVID-19

Researchers investigated the association of sociodemographic factors, including age, sex, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status, with the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection. The study found a significant link between certain blood types and increased risk of severe COVID-19. Participants with type O negative blood were more likely to experienc...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 5, 2021

Making the case for adjusting quality measures for social risk factors

A new analysis by researchers led by Dr. David Nerenz of Henry Ford Health System suggests that accounting for social risk factors like poverty, housing instability and transportation insecurity can have a meaningful impact on healthcare quality measures without compromising quality of care. The study makes the case for using social ri...

SourceHenry Ford Health·JournalHealth Affairs·DateApr 5, 2021
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.

Interactive tool ranks viruses at risk of spillover

A new interactive tool, SpillOver, prioritizes wildlife-origin viruses based on their risk of spreading to humans. The tool identifies 12 known human pathogens and several newly discovered viruses as being at high risk of spillover.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 5, 2021

Ranking virus spillover risk

A new web application, SpillOver, evaluates wildlife viruses to estimate their zoonotic spillover and pandemic potential. The tool creates a watchlist of newly-discovered viruses, prioritizing them for further characterization, surveillance, and risk-reducing interventions.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 5, 2021

Study identifies risk factors for COVID-19 infection, hospitalization, and mortality among U.S. nursing home residents

A large study found that risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 infection differed from those for hospitalization and death in U.S. nursing homes. Risk of infection was mainly dependent on nursing home and community factors, while hospitalization risk varied more with patient-specific characteristics such as age, BMI, and ethnicity.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 31, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Mysterious living monuments

Researchers found that nearly nothing is known about the biggest trees and how they die, making them difficult to study. Climate change, severe storms, and droughts are affecting these giant trees, releasing more carbon into the atmosphere.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalNature Plants·DateMar 30, 2021
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.

Foreign-born run greater risk of workplace bullying

Research by Linköping University finds that foreign-born employees are more likely to experience person-related bullying, which is based on their cultural identity. The study reveals an increased risk of workplace bullying for people born abroad, particularly those from Asia.

SourceLinköping University·DateMar 19, 2021

New study finds shared origins for individual chronic diseases in multimorbidity

A new study published in Nature Medicine has identified key risk factors that increase the likelihood of individuals developing multiple non-communicable diseases. The analysis found that underlying biological links exist in individuals with multimorbidity, which is a growing public health challenge. The researchers also identified pot...

SourceUK Research and Innovation·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 11, 2021
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.

New study: Healthcare settings do not increase risk for Covid-19 infection spread

A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that healthcare personnel who contracted COVID-19 had stronger risk factors outside the workplace than in their hospital or healthcare setting. Having a known exposure to someone who tested positive for COVID-19 in the community was the strongest risk factor.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 10, 2021

NIH researchers develop guidelines for reporting polygenic risk scores

The NIH has developed a framework for reporting polygenic risk scores, which provide an estimate of an individual's inherited risk for diseases. The new guidelines aim to improve the validity, transparency, and reproducibility of polygenic risk scores in clinical care.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalNature·DateMar 10, 2021
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.

A new predictive model helps identify those at risk for severe COVID-19

A new predictive model helps identify individuals at risk of severe COVID-19 by analyzing data from the COVID-19 Symptom Tracker app used by 3 million people in the UK. The study found that factors such as immunosuppressant medication, mobility aid use, and shortness of breath increase the risk for severe disease.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateMar 9, 2021

Allelica's polygenic risk score data published inCirculation

A recent study published in Circulation shows that combining genetic risk with LDL cholesterol levels can accurately predict heart attack risk. The study reveals that individuals with a high polygenic predisposition for heart attack, regardless of their LDL level, are at increased risk.

SourceHalsin Partners·JournalCirculation·DateMar 8, 2021

Failing to see the forest for the trees may prevent better cardiovascular outcomes

A new study from The George Institute for Global Health found that countries are wasting resources by treating only one aspect of cardiovascular disease, rather than looking at the big picture. The researchers discovered a higher risk of CVD in lower educated and non-employed people, as well as an underuse of medicines in those at high...

SourceGeorge Institute for Global Health·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 4, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Heart failure-related death rates higher in rural versus urban US counties

Nationwide analysis reveals adults in rural counties experience higher heart failure-related death rates compared to urban counterparts, with greater increases for younger adults. Socioeconomic factors and clinical risk factors contribute to the urban-rural divide, prompting a need for targeted health and economic policy efforts.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 3, 2021

Cardiovascular risk factors, cognitive impairment in people with schizophrenia

A comprehensive study combining 27 research studies and 10,000 participant data reveals strong associations between cardiovascular risk factors and cognitive impairment in individuals with schizophrenia. The findings suggest that managing cardiovascular conditions is essential to mitigate cognitive decline in these patients.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateMar 3, 2021

Birthweight strongly linked to type 2 diabetes risk in adulthood

Research found a strong association between birthweight of 2.5kg or more and lower IGF-1 levels, which are linked to an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes in adulthood. The study involved 112,736 women and 68,354 men from the UK Biobank study.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care·DateMar 1, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Socioeconomic status plays a major role in cognitive outcomes

A study at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that socioeconomic status is significantly linked to IQ, academics, and self-care skills in children with brain tumors treated with radiation. The gap between these groups widens over time.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNeuro-Oncology·DateMar 1, 2021

Household transmission of SARS-CoV-2

Researchers used electronic medical records to estimate SARS-CoV-2 transmission risk and identify risk factors for household transmission. The study found that addressing in the home address could be used to predict transmission risk.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 26, 2021

First multi-whole-genome study of IBD in African Americans

African Americans have a distinct genetic risk landscape for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), with specific genes contributing to risk, according to the first whole-genome study. The study identified rare genetic variants and highlights the need for personalized approaches to IBD treatment.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateFeb 19, 2021
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.

Certain factors are linked with an elevated risk of bone fractures

A new study followed 30,446 middle-aged individuals and found that older age, female sex, and low leisure-time physical activity are associated with a higher likelihood of experiencing a fracture. The study highlights the importance of these factors in public health initiatives for fracture prevention.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateFeb 18, 2021

Radiomics shows cocaine fuels coronary artery disease risk

A study published in Radiology found that cocaine use significantly affects the progression of coronary artery disease, while HIV infection has a more profound effect on younger individuals. Radiomics analysis revealed distinctive contributions of different risk factors to changes in plaque over time.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateFeb 16, 2021

Spanish scientists uncover early links between cardiovascular risk and brain metabolism

Researchers found a link between elevated cardiovascular risk and low brain metabolism in middle-aged individuals, with hypertension being the most closely associated factor. Atherosclerosis was also linked to lower brain metabolism, particularly in areas implicated in Alzheimer's disease.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateFeb 15, 2021
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.

Clues for improving sleep in visually impaired athletes

Visually impaired athletes are at higher risk for sleep disorders due to stress from competition activities and late wake-up times. Researchers found that approximately one-third of respondents had sleep disorders, highlighting the need for strategies to improve relationships and adjust wake-up times.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalSleep Medicine·DateFeb 14, 2021

Murphy receives funding for risk need responsivity project

Researchers at George Mason University will provide access to and training on the Risk-Need-Responsivity (RNR) Simulation Tool for approximately 10 users through a $9,019 grant from Wood County Mental Health Services. The funding supports the RNR project until December 2021.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateFeb 12, 2021

Tap water access linked to dengue risk

Researchers have identified tap water access as a strong predictor of dengue risk in urban environments. Poorly accessed colonies showed higher risks of exposure and recent infection compared to wealthier areas, highlighting the need for targeted mosquito control measures.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateFeb 11, 2021
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.

Long-term stress linked to increased risk of heart attack

A new study by researchers from Linköping University suggests that long-term stress is a risk factor for heart attacks. Cortisol levels in hair samples were found to be statistically significantly higher in individuals who suffered a heart attack, even after adjusting for other cardiovascular risk factors.

SourceLinköping University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 10, 2021
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.

COVID-19 news fromAnnals of Internal Medicine

A recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that community and demographic factors, such as contact with a confirmed or suspected COVID-19-positive case outside the workplace and Black race, were stronger predictors of COVID-19 infection than occupational exposure among healthcare workers. The study also highlights th...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 29, 2021

Otago study examines attitudes toward climate change risk

A University of Otago study found that while 74% of Americans are concerned about climate change, only 29% discuss lower carbon options when asked to describe future travel. The study suggests actively envisioning a sustainable future could lead to increased adoption of low-carbon systems and mitigate efforts.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 28, 2021

New gene variant linked to stroke

Researchers identified a new gene variant, MAP3K6, associated with cerebral small vessel disease and stroke in an extended Swedish family. This discovery may lead to better understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind early stroke and potential prevention strategies.

SourceLund University·JournalNeurology Genetics·DateJan 28, 2021
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.

Association of smoking with COVID-19 outcomes

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that smoking is an independent risk factor for severe COVID-19 outcomes. The results suggest that cumulative exposure to cigarette smoke increases the risk of hospital admission and death from COVID-19.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 25, 2021