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Just one high-fat meal sets the perfect stage for heart disease

A single high-fat milkshake can quickly transform healthy red blood cells into small, spiky cells that wreak havoc inside blood vessels. This study found that such a meal can lead to impaired ability of blood vessels to relax and an immune response similar to one provoked by an infection.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalLaboratory Investigation·DateMar 29, 2018

Western diet depletes artery-protecting immune cells

A high-fat, high-cholesterol Western diet reprograms protective immune cells called regulatory T cells into follicular helper T cells that promote inflammation and atherosclerosis. HDL 'good cholesterol' helps shield these protective cells from this transformation.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 20, 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.

Haphazard cholesterol checks put Australians at risk of heart disease

A recent study found that 49% of patients on cholesterol medications did not receive the recommended annual HDL-C test, while 19% received more tests than needed. The study estimates that this leads to a yearly expenditure of A$4.3 million due to overutilisation and A$11.3 million in cost savings from underutilisation.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalBMJ Open·DateMar 8, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Newly discovered gene may protect against heart disease

A newly discovered gene called MeXis has been found to act within clogged arteries to remove excess cholesterol from blood vessels. This study suggests that long non-coding RNAs play a crucial role in the development of heart disease and may lead to new insights into treating cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Medicine·DateFeb 13, 2018

Circulating lipids play roles in many diseases

Recent studies investigate the role of cholesterol and other lipids in blood circulation, discovering a correlation between bad cholesterol levels and muscle damage in muscular dystrophy patients. Another study reveals a synergistic effect of hepatitis B and alcohol on cholesterol metabolism, increasing biosynthesis and impairing uptake.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateFeb 8, 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.

Long-lasting adaptations of the innate immune system through the bone marrow

Researchers at Radboud University Medical Center discovered that mevalonate, a byproduct of cholesterol production, trains the immune system. A Western diet rich in cholesterol can also induce trained immune cells, leading to long-lasting inflammation. Statins may inhibit this training, while boosting it could help weakened immune systems

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalCell·DateJan 11, 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.

How cholesterol contributes to age-related neuron impairment

A new study in mice reveals that excess cholesterol may be hindering the repair of fatty protective sheaths around neurons. Researchers found that phagocytes, which ingest debris, had internal organs called lysosomes overwhelmed with cholesterol crystals, reducing their ability to repair myelin.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 4, 2018

New study suggests health benefits of swapping animal proteins for plant proteins

A new study suggests that replacing one to two animal proteins with plant proteins daily can reduce three main cholesterol markers for heart disease prevention by about 5%. Combining this with other cholesterol-lowering foods like viscous fibers and sterols may yield even greater health benefits.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateDec 20, 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
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.

A spring-loaded sensor for cholesterol in cells

Researchers discovered that an enzyme called squalene monooxygenase (SM) responds to increased cholesterol levels by being destroyed, reducing cholesterol production. This finding could lead to new treatments targeting SM, potentially decreasing cholesterol levels.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateDec 7, 2017

Cholesterol helps flu virus escape through host cell's membrane

Researchers at MIT found that two cholesterol molecules bind to a flu protein called M2, creating a wedge shape in the cell membrane that severs the viral buds. This discovery sheds light on how many other proteins interact with membrane cholesterol.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 20, 2017

Molecular guardian defends cells, organs against excess cholesterol

Researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health discovered Nrf1 protein's role in maintaining cholesterol balance within cells. The protein senses and responds to excess cholesterol, promoting protective countermeasures and potentially treating diseases where cholesterol metabolism is disrupted.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalCell·DateNov 16, 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.

UC-led study could bring about strategies to increase 'good' cholesterol

A research team from the University of Cincinnati has developed a consensus model of human apolipoprotein A-I, a key component of HDL, which could lead to new strategies for increasing good cholesterol. This breakthrough was achieved through collaborative effort and innovative use of indirect experimental techniques.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateNov 13, 2017
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.

New way to treat cholesterol may be on the horizon

Researchers at Houston Methodist discovered a new pathway in cholesterol elimination, revealing that it is eliminated from the body in just two minutes, challenging the current 40-year model. This finding has significant implications for developing new drugs to lower cholesterol and improving cardiovascular health.

SourceHouston Methodist·DateOct 26, 2017

Cholesterol byproduct hijacks immune cells, lets breast cancer spread

Researchers discovered that high levels of cholesterol metabolism's byproduct 27HC facilitates breast cancer metastasis by hijacking specific immune cells. The study identifies 27HC as a potential drug target to inhibit its creation or actions, offering hope for effective therapies against this aggressive form of cancer.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 12, 2017

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
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.

High rate of prescriptions for new cholesterol medications never filled

A study published in JAMA Cardiology found that only 30.9% of patients prescribed PCSK9 inhibitors ever received therapy, largely due to copay costs and prior authorization processes. Patients with governmental insurance and those filled at specialty pharmacies were more likely to be approved.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateSep 27, 2017

Alcohol use affects levels of cholesterol regulator through epigenetics

Researchers found that drinking alcohol induces changes to a cholesterol-regulating gene, PCSK9, leading to differences in how cholesterol is processed. Higher methylation and gene expression of PCSK9 were associated with chronic heavy alcohol use, which can lead to lower PCSK9 protein levels due to liver damage.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateSep 20, 2017
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.

Study examines dietary fats' impact on healthy, obese adults

A new study suggests that metabolically healthy obese adults consuming a diet high in unsaturated fats may be able to decrease their total cholesterol by 10 points. However, replacing saturated fats with unsaturated fats does not aid in weight loss.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAnnals of Nutrition and Metabolism·DateAug 30, 2017

Revisiting dietary fat guidelines? (PURE)

A large study found that high carbohydrate intake is linked to increased total mortality and non-cardiovascular mortality outcomes, while high fat intake is associated with lower risk. The study suggests that limiting total fat consumption may not improve health in populations.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 29, 2017

Japanese study questions benefit of treat-to-target statin therapy (EMPATHY)

A Japanese study questioned the benefit of treat-to-target intensive statin therapy in patients with diabetic retinopathy, finding no significant reduction in cardiovascular events. However, subanalysis showed that reaching an LDL cholesterol target of less than 70 mg/dL significantly reduced primary endpoint incidence.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 29, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

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.

Gene therapy using 'junk DNA' could lower risk for heart disease

Researchers used gene therapy with LeXis, a 'junk DNA' suppressor of cholesterol, to reduce plaque in mice with familial hypercholesterolemia. The treatment lowered cholesterol and blockages in arteries, and appeared to reduce fat build-up in liver cells.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalCirculation·DateAug 28, 2017

How low should LDL cholesterol go?

Researchers found that ultra-low LDL cholesterol levels (below 10 mg/dL) significantly reduced cardiovascular event risk by over 40%. No adverse effects on cognition or safety endpoints were reported. The study suggests achieving low LDL cholesterol levels beyond current treatment targets may further reduce cardiovascular risk.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 28, 2017
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.

Researchers link high levels of 'good' cholesterol with excessive mortality

Researchers found that extremely high HDL levels are associated with a higher mortality rate than normal levels. Men with extremely high levels had a 106% higher mortality rate, while women had a 68% higher mortality rate. The study suggests that the focus on HDL as an important health indicator may need to be revised.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateAug 23, 2017

Cholesterol-lowering drugs may fight infectious disease

Duke scientists discovered a gene variant linked to susceptibility to typhoid fever and found that cholesterol-lowering drug ezetimibe protected zebrafish against Salmonella Typhi. The study provides insight into human susceptibility to infectious disease and potential avenues for protection.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2017
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.

Long-term diabetes complication: Liver inflammation raises cholesterol levels

A study by Helmholtz Munich researchers found that liver inflammation leads to increased cholesterol levels in people with diabetes, promoting vascular diseases. This mechanism is crucial as it explains why some individuals with well-controlled blood sugar levels still experience long-term complications.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 14, 2017

Almonds may help boost cholesterol clean-up crew

A recent study found that consuming almonds regularly can improve HDL cholesterol levels and function in people with elevated LDL cholesterol. The almond diet resulted in a 19% increase in large HDL particles and improved HDL function by 6.4%, suggesting potential benefits for heart health.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateAug 11, 2017
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.

Quitting statins after stroke may raise risk of another stroke

Researchers found that stopping statin drugs after a first ischemic stroke increases the risk of having another stroke within a year and death. The study suggests that statins should be a lifelong therapy for ischemic stroke patients if needed to lower cholesterol levels.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateAug 2, 2017

Cardiovascular Innovations and Applications journal (volume 2 issue 3) published

The latest issue of Cardiovascular Innovations and Applications (CVIA) brings together a diverse set of papers on various cardiovascular topics. The journal features original articles, reviews, commentaries, and case reports on topics such as telemedicine, heart failure, and cholesterol crystals.

SourceCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateJul 31, 2017

UAlberta and McGill scientists uncover a hidden calcium cholesterol connection

Scientists at UAlberta and McGill University have discovered a direct link between calcium and cholesterol, finding that a lack of calcium can hide cholesterol from the cell's machinery. This discovery could pave the way for new treatments for high blood cholesterol and heart disease.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 26, 2017

Elevated cholesterol's link with canine cancer includes a better prognosis

Researchers at Oregon State University found nearly half of dogs with osteosarcoma had elevated total serum cholesterol levels, leading to longer survival times. Dogs with high cholesterol had a median survival time of 455 days, compared to 345 days for those with normal cholesterol.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Small Animal Practice·DateJul 25, 2017

NIH scientists find rare disease clues in cell's recycling system

Scientists have discovered how a compound activates an enzyme to reduce cholesterol and other accumulated fats in the brains and livers of Niemann-Pick type C1 patients. The study may lead to new treatments for NPC1 and other neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceNIH/National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS)·JournalAutophagy·DateJul 17, 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.

Mechanism shown to reverse disease in arteries

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation reveals a mechanism to reverse disease in arteries by targeting an immune reaction. Researchers at NYU Langone Health discovered that certain immune cells can switch from promoting inflammation to healing, which can lead to reduced plaque growth and improved cardiovascular health.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 26, 2017

New clues in puzzle over pre-eclampsia and cholesterol regulation

A study led by the University of Nottingham has uncovered new clues on the connection between pre-eclampsia and an increased risk of heart disease in later life. The research suggests that the body's normal defence mechanism for flushing out cholesterol from the blood may be disrupted by the illness.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateJun 21, 2017

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

Cholesterol -- a key player at the lung surface

Researchers at Lund University found that cholesterol impacts the molecular structure of the alveoli's surfactant film, influencing its mechanical properties and substance transport. The study provides new insights into the significance of cholesterol for lung surface properties.

SourceLund University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 1, 2017