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Injectable biologic therapy dramatically reduces triglycerides

Researchers tested an injectable biologic drug therapy that inhibits Angiopoietin-like 3 (ANGPTL3) to lower triglyceride levels. The study showed a profound drop in triglyceride levels, with reductions of up to 73%, and dose-dependent reductions in cholesterol levels.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateNov 14, 2016
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.

Physically fit adults have lower statin-induced diabetes risk

Researchers found that patients with high cholesterol who take statins have a 20% increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. However, those in the fit and highly fit categories had significantly lower diabetes risk, with reductions of 22% and 42%, respectively.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 13, 2016

Moderate alcohol intake may slow good cholesterol's decline

A study of 80,000 healthy adults found that moderate drinking was associated with slower declines in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels over time. Moderate drinkers had the slowest decline in HDL levels, with heavy drinking nearly eliminating this benefit.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 13, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

One egg per day associated with 12 percent reduced risk of stroke

A systematic review of studies suggests a 12% lower risk of stroke associated with moderate egg consumption, likely due to the high-quality protein and antioxidants present. Eggs are an affordable source of essential nutrients, supporting heart health and overall well-being.

SourceEgg Nutrition Center·JournalJournal of the American College of Nutrition·DateNov 1, 2016

Raising 'good cholesterol' not as effective as lowering 'bad cholesterol'

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that low and very high levels of 'good cholesterol' are associated with an increased risk of dying from heart disease, cancer, and other causes. Raising HDL levels does not appear to reduce a person's risk of heart disease.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateOct 31, 2016
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.

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.

Depriving deadly brain tumors of cholesterol may be their Achilles' heel

Researchers found that depriving brain tumor cells of cholesterol specifically kills them and causes tumor regression. This alternative method targets glioblastomas, the most aggressive form of brain cancer, which are difficult to treat due to their biochemical composition and blood-brain barrier.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCancer Cell·DateOct 13, 2016

Canadian Cardiovascular Society sets new guidelines for management of lipid metabolism disorders that affect cholesterol and cause atherosclerosis

The Canadian Cardiovascular Society has published new guidelines for managing dyslipidemia, a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The guidelines recommend shared decision-making between physician and patient, with a focus on patient involvement in lipid target setting.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·DateOct 11, 2016
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.

OPTICARE trial: Enhanced cardiac rehab programs help heart attack patients

The OPTICARE trial found that patients who stuck with a year-long enhanced cardiac rehabilitation program were happier, healthier, and more active than those in the regular program. Motivated patients showed significant improvements in smoking cessation and total cholesterol levels, as well as higher health-related quality of life.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 29, 2016
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.

Severe obesity revealed as a stand-alone high-risk factor for heart failure

A Johns Hopkins study of over 13,000 participants found that severe obesity is a standalone high-risk factor for heart failure, but not other types of heart disease. Morbidly obese individuals were nearly fourfold more likely to develop heart failure even after controlling for risk factors such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateAug 22, 2016

High and low levels of 'good cholesterol' may cause premature death

A large-scale study found that both high and low levels of HDL cholesterol are associated with an increased risk of premature death. Intermediate levels, however, may increase longevity. The research used data from over 1.7 million male veterans and showed a U-shaped curve relationship between HDL cholesterol levels and mortality.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 11, 2016
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.

Intermediate HDL cholesterol levels may be best for longevity

A large study found that maintaining intermediate levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol may help people live longer. The study, which included 1.7 million US male veterans, discovered a U-shaped relationship between HDL-C and mortality risk, with low and high levels being associated with higher risks.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 11, 2016

New lipid-lowering drugs help patients reduce LDL cholesterol

Researchers found that adding anti-PCSK9 antibodies to existing treatments can significantly reduce LDL cholesterol levels in patients. The studies demonstrated a reduction in LDL cholesterol and achieved high response rates for both alirocumab and evolocumab.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateAug 1, 2016
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.

Fluctuations in 'bad' cholesterol may be linked to worse brain health

New research suggests that greater fluctuations in 'bad' cholesterol levels may be associated with lower cognitive performance in elderly adults. The study found that participants with the highest LDL cholesterol variability took longer to complete a cognitive test, indicating poorer brain health.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJul 18, 2016

Inhibiting ApoC-III reduces triglyceride levels in mice

Researchers found that inhibiting Apolipoprotein C-III (ApoC-III) decreases triglyceride levels in blood by targeting similar pathways as LDL cholesterol. Treating mice with an ApoC-III inhibitor lowered triglycerides, but the effect was blocked in mice lacking key components of the LDL signaling pathway.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 11, 2016
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.

Barley lowers not one but two types of 'bad cholesterol', review suggests

A review of clinical trials found that barley lowers levels of both low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and non-high-density lipoprotein (non-HDL), two types of 'bad cholesterol'. The study suggests that barley has similar cholesterol-lowering effects as oats, making it a valuable alternative for those looking to reduce cardiovascular risk.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalEuropean Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJun 8, 2016

New model of T cell activation

Researchers from the University Freiburg have developed a new model of T cell activation, demonstrating that cholesterol prevents an immune response even when no antigen is present. The study reveals a specific interaction between cholesterol and inactive T cell receptors, regulating their conformation and activity.

SourceBIOSS - Centre for Biological Signalling Studies·JournalImmunity·DateMay 27, 2016
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.

Air pollution exposure may raise heart disease risk

A new study found that air pollution exposure can worsen blood sugar levels, cholesterol and other risk factors for heart disease. Participants with diabetes experienced higher changes in blood glucose and cholesterol levels when exposed to higher levels of particulate matter.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMay 24, 2016

Mutation protects against heart disease

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine identified a rare genetic mutation that protects against chronic coronary artery diseases. Individuals with this deletion (0.8%) have lower cholesterol levels and a reduced risk of arteriosclerosis, a key factor in heart disease.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 23, 2016

New study: Has HDL, the 'good' cholesterol, been hyped?

Researchers found that HDL is not uniformly predictive of cardiovascular risk, with triglycerides and LDL modifying the incidence of CVD in both low- and high-level HDL. High levels of LDL or TG can increase cardiovascular risk by 30-60% compared to isolated low HDL.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Medical Center·DateMay 10, 2016
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.

Weight loss surgery boosts good cholesterol in obese teen boys

Preliminary research finds that weight loss surgery increases HDL 'good' cholesterol and improves its heart-protecting actions in severely obese teens. The study shows improved metabolic health measured by HDL function after surgery, despite remaining obesity.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMay 5, 2016

Research points to a new treatment for pancreatic cancer

Researchers at Purdue University have discovered a link between cholesterol metabolism and pancreatic cancer spread, pointing to potential new treatment using drugs for atherosclerosis. Controlling cholesterol metabolism reduces tumor growth and metastasis in mice.

SourcePurdue University·JournalOncogene·DateMay 3, 2016

No need to fast before a cholesterol test

A study of over 300,000 individuals suggests that cholesterol levels are similar whether patients fast or not. This new guideline eliminates the need for fasting before cholesterol testing, benefiting patients and healthcare providers alike.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateApr 27, 2016

Cholesterol levels, not statins, influence colorectal cancer risk

A large case-control study suggests that high cholesterol levels, rather than statin use, may influence the risk of colorectal cancer. The study found an inverse relationship between blood cholesterol levels and colorectal cancer risk, with higher cholesterol levels associated with lower risk.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateApr 26, 2016
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.

Statins and colorectal cancer

A large case-control study found that statin use is associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer, but the difference in risk between statin users and non-users was not significant. Increased serum cholesterol levels were also independently linked to decreased risk of colorectal cancer.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateApr 26, 2016

Sleep loss detrimental to blood vessels

Researchers found that sleep loss reduces gene expression involved in cholesterol transport, leading to lower levels of good cholesterol. The study also discovered that sleep-deprived individuals have fewer high-density HDL lipoproteins, which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 22, 2016

Scientist models Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome in adult stem cells

Researchers from Sanford Research successfully modeled Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome using induced pluripotent stem cells, highlighting the role of Wnt/β-catenin defects in cholesterol synthesis. The study provides new insights into the underlying cellular mechanisms of this rare developmental disorder.

SourceSanford Health/Sanford Research·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 20, 2016

Compound from hops lowers cholesterol, blood sugar and weight gain

A study at Oregon State University has identified a specific intake level of xanthohumol that significantly improves metabolic syndrome markers and reduces weight gain in laboratory animals. The findings suggest a possible new approach to addressing obesity, high cholesterol and elevated glucose.

SourceOregon State University·JournalArchives of Biochemistry and Biophysics·DateApr 18, 2016
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.

Did butter get a bad rap?

Researchers analyzed previously unpublished data from a large controlled trial and found that using vegetable oils high in linoleic acid may not decrease the risk of heart disease. In contrast, using butter did lower cholesterol levels without affecting heart attacks or deaths.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalThe BMJ·DateApr 12, 2016

Highly-sensitive detection method makes close monitoring of HDL kinetics possible

Researchers have developed a highly-sensitive detection method to monitor HDL kinetics, revealing new lipid biology and potential therapeutic targets. The technique allows for the identification of HDL subfractions and their unique proteomes, which may help pharmaceutical companies design more effective drugs.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateApr 11, 2016
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.

Controlling 'bad cholesterol' production could prevent growth of tumors, study finds

Researchers found that cancer cells can regulate the body's lipid metabolism to increase production of lipids. Minimizing liver production of LDL can deprive tumors of their constant supply and reduce growth. The study aims to test existing medications for hypercholesterolemia on patients undergoing cancer treatment.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 8, 2016

Cyclodextrin dissolves away cholesterol crystals

Researchers found that cyclodextrin reduces atherosclerotic plaques by reprogramming macrophages and dissolving cholesterol crystals. The treatment prevents plaque formation and reduces existing plaques in mice and human carotid arteries, pointing to cholesterol crystals as a target for atherosclerosis treatment.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 8, 2016

Ring-shaped sugar helps in cases of atherosclerosis

Researchers at the University of Bonn discovered that cyclodextrin promotes the breakdown of cholesterol deposits in arteries, reducing inflammation and plaque formation. The ring-shaped sugar increases natural mechanisms for cholesterol breakdown and reduces inflammatory response, offering a potential new treatment for atherosclerosis.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 6, 2016

Promising new method inhibits TB-causing bacteria

Scientists have discovered a new way to inhibit the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis by using modified cholesterol as an energy source. This breakthrough holds promise for the development of new treatments for tuberculosis, a highly infectious lung disease that kills one person every 21 seconds.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 5, 2016

New research investigates the benefits of walnuts on age-related health issues

The Walnuts and Healthy Aging (WAHA) study found that daily walnut consumption reduces LDL cholesterol levels and has no adverse effects on body weight among older adults. This research suggests walnuts may benefit the nutritional well-being of aging adults, particularly in terms of cardiovascular health.

SourceEdelman Public Relations, Seattle·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateApr 4, 2016
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Statin intolerance objectively identified in patients

A new study by the Cleveland Clinic has identified statin intolerance objectively, showing that evolocumab is a more effective option for lowering cholesterol in patients who are intolerant to multiple statins. The PCSK9 inhibitor reduced cholesterol levels by 52.8%, while ezetimibe had a smaller reduction of 16.7%.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalJAMA·DateApr 3, 2016

Evacetrapib fails to reduce major adverse cardiovascular events

A large clinical trial of evacetrapib, a CETP inhibitor, showed no reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events, despite significant increases in HDL and decreases in LDL cholesterol levels. The study's findings challenge conventional thinking on the benefits of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateApr 3, 2016

Genes causing high cholesterol are less common than previously thought

A study found that only 2% of people with very high cholesterol have a familial hypercholesterolemia mutation, but those with the mutation face a six times higher risk of early-onset coronary artery disease. Genetic screening could help identify and ward off cardiovascular disease in affected individuals.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 3, 2016
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.

Trial offers objective evidence of muscle-related side effects with statins

A recent clinical trial provides objective evidence of muscle-related side effects associated with statins. Evolocumab was found to be superior to ezetimibe in reducing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. The study's findings have significant implications for treating patients with statin intolerance.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateApr 3, 2016