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Niacin too dangerous for routine cholesterol therapy

A new study suggests that niacin should no longer be prescribed for most patients due to potential increased risk of death and dangerous side effects. The therapy was found to have no benefit in reducing heart attacks and strokes, despite raising HDL cholesterol levels.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 16, 2014

Cholesterol activates signaling pathway that promotes cancer

Researchers discovered cholesterol's activation of a signaling pathway linked to cancer growth and division. Elevated cholesterol levels may selectively promote cancerous pathways, providing a new mechanism for cancer risk.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 15, 2014

Association found between high cholesterol and breast cancer

A study of over 1 million patients in the UK found an association between high blood cholesterol and increased breast cancer risk. The researchers suggest that lowering cholesterol with statins may help prevent or treat breast cancer, warranting further investigation.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateJul 4, 2014

Sex hormone levels at midlife linked to heart disease risk in women

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh found that midlife sex hormone changes are associated with lower quality cholesterol carriers, which predict higher risk of heart disease. The study suggests that advanced testing methods may be needed to evaluate menopause-related dynamic changes in women.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateJun 27, 2014
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.

Did Neanderthals eat their vegetables?

A new MIT study provides direct evidence of plants in the Neanderthal diet, suggesting a more varied diet than previously thought. The researchers analyzed fecal remains from El Salt, Spain, finding metabolized versions of animal-derived cholesterol and phytosterol, a compound found in plants.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 25, 2014

Gender differences could mean more risk for cardiovascular death

Research shows women with Type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol have poorer adherence to statin medication, leading to lower LDL cholesterol levels compared to men. The study highlights the need for gender-based evaluation and treatment of cardiovascular risk factors in these patients.

SourceQueen's University·DateJun 24, 2014

Diabetes drug, Liraglutide, improves risk factors for heart disease

A multicenter study found that liraglutide, a diabetes drug, reduced weight and improved cardiovascular risk factors such as high blood pressure and cholesterol levels. The results showed significant improvements in weight loss and lipid profiles, suggesting a potential lower risk of heart disease.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateJun 23, 2014

Gender-based treatment needed for cardiovascular risk factors in diabetes

A Canadian study found that women with type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol have poorer LDL cholesterol levels than men, despite equal access to cholesterol-lowering medication. The researchers suggest a need for gender-based evaluation and treatment of cardiovascular risk factors in these patients to prevent heart disease and stroke.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateJun 21, 2014
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.

New driver of atherosclerosis offers potential as therapeutic target

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have discovered a new driver of atherosclerosis, a molecule called 27-hydroxycholesterol (27HC), which exacerbates the condition and may be a promising therapeutic target. Blocking 27HC or inhibiting its actions could provide a complementary approach to preventing vascular disease.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJun 19, 2014

New research can improve heart health

Researchers found that people with a specific gene variation have lower blood lipids and a reduced risk of arteriosclerosis. The study, based on two large population studies, suggests that inhibiting apolipoprotein C3 could be an effective target for new drugs to prevent cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 18, 2014
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.

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.

New data clarify relationship between diet and disease activity

New studies have found that daily intake of monounsaturated fatty acids is an independent predictor of remission in patients with RA, while excessive cholesterol levels increase cartilage damage in OA. The Mediterranean diet has been shown to reduce inflammatory activity and improve function in RA patients.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·DateJun 11, 2014

A shot against heart attacks?

Researchers at Harvard University have developed a genome-editing approach that permanently reduces cholesterol levels in mice through a single injection. This approach could significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks in humans, translating to a potential 90% reduction in heart attack risk. The technique targets the PCSK9 gene and ...

SourceHarvard University·JournalCirculation Research·DateJun 10, 2014

High cholesterol may delay pregnancy

A new study published by The Endocrine Society found that couples with high cholesterol levels took longer to conceive a child. The study examined the rate of pregnancies among 501 heterosexual couples trying to conceive and found that those with high cholesterol levels had significantly lower fecundity rates.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMay 20, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

NIH study links high cholesterol levels to lower fertility

A recent NIH study found that high cholesterol levels may impair fertility in couples trying to achieve a pregnancy. Couples with the highest cholesterol levels took longer to get pregnant, while those with acceptable cholesterol levels had faster conception rates.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMay 20, 2014
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.

The new face of tofu

A new Cornell study reveals that tofu lovers perceive it as a convenient and filling source of light protein. However, non-users had misconceptions about its cost and cooking difficulties. Correcting these misconceptions through price information, simple recipes, and 'cooks like chicken' messaging increased the likelihood of purchase.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalEating Behaviors·DateMay 6, 2014

Low rate of cholesterol testing for children and adolescents

Abnormal lipid values occur in 1 in 5 U.S. children and adolescents, associated with cardiovascular disease in adulthood. Testing rates increased only slightly from 2.5% in 1995 to 3.4% in 2010, highlighting a low rate of cholesterol testing among children and adolescents.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMay 3, 2014

Statins for kidney disease patients: Protection for the heart but no effects on kidneys

A recent study found that statin therapy lowers LDL cholesterol and reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke in patients with chronic kidney disease, but has no effect on kidney function or progression. The Study of Heart and Renal Protection (SHARP) included 6,245 patients who received a placebo or cholesterol-lowering treatment w...

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMay 1, 2014
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.

Low cholesterol in immune cells slows HIV progression

Scientists have identified low cholesterol levels in immune cells as a key factor in slowing HIV progression in some individuals. This discovery could lead to the development of new therapeutic strategies for preventing HIV disease progression.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateApr 29, 2014

Scientists target receptor to treat diabetic retinopathy

Researchers found that activating a receptor, Gpr109a, can inhibit inflammation in the retina and prevent vision damage in diabetes. The new grant will enable long-term studies to evaluate the therapeutic potential of this approach.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateApr 21, 2014
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Pharmacist-led interventions show high success rates for post-stroke care

Researchers found that pharmacist-led interventions show a significant improvement in blood pressure and cholesterol levels compared to current standard of care. Nurse-led care saw a 30% improvement, while pharmacist-led care achieved a 43% improvement in improving patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 15, 2014

Pharmacists can significantly improve blood pressure, cholesterol in stroke patients

A randomized controlled trial found that pharmacists significantly improved blood pressure and cholesterol levels in stroke patients, with a 43% absolute improvement compared to the control group. Pharmacists' active medication adjustment contributed to this effect, despite already taking antihypertensive or lipid-lowering medications.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 14, 2014

Beans, peas, lentils can significantly reduce 'bad cholesterol' and risk of heart disease

A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that eating just 1 serving of legumes daily can significantly reduce LDL cholesterol by 5%. This reduction may lead to a 5% lower risk of major vascular events. The authors suggest that increasing pulse intake is a reasonable and beneficial dietary change.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 7, 2014
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.

Evolocumab superior to ezetimibe in lowering LDL cholesterol

In a phase III study, evolocumab was shown to effectively lower LDL-C levels, with fewer side effects compared to ezetimibe. The results suggest that evolocumab may be a promising alternative for patients who cannot tolerate statins due to intolerable side effects.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMar 30, 2014

Evolocumab safely drops LDL cholesterol well below statin-only baseline

The LAPLACE-2 study shows evolocumab produces highly significant reductions in LDL cholesterol when added to statins, with 93% of patients achieving an LDL level below 70mg/dL. Evolocumab also reduces non-HDL cholesterol, apolipoprotein B and lipoprotein (a) levels without liver damage or muscle problems.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 30, 2014
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.

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.

Concerning number of kids have elevated cholesterol

A study of 12,712 children found that 30% had borderline or elevated total cholesterol, underscoring the importance of universal pediatric cholesterol screening. The findings suggest that adopting healthy lifestyle choices and regular screening can potentially stall vascular changes and reduce future disease risk.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 28, 2014

Cholesterol levels vary by season, get worse in colder months

A large-scale study found that cholesterol levels tend to be worse in the colder months compared to warmer months, with significant variations in lipid profiles. The researchers speculate that behaviors such as reduced sun exposure and lower vitamin D levels during winter may contribute to these seasonal fluctuations.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 27, 2014

Cholesterol transporter structure decoded

Scientists have solved the high-resolution structure of the molecular transporter TSPO, which introduces cholesterol into mitochondria. The detailed knowledge of its three-dimensional shape and function opens up new diagnostic and therapeutic perspectives.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalScience·DateMar 21, 2014
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Calcium and vitamin D improve cholesterol in postmenopausal women

A new study from the Women's Health Initiative found that calcium and vitamin D supplements can lower LDL cholesterol levels and raise HDL cholesterol in postmenopausal women. Vitamin D levels also played a significant role, with higher levels associated with improved cholesterol profiles.

SourceThe Menopause Society·JournalMenopause·DateMar 5, 2014

Increased intake of fish can boost good cholesterol levels

A recent study at the University of Eastern Finland found that increasing fatty fish intake can increase large HDL particles in the blood, which protect against cardiovascular diseases. Regular consumption of fish, especially fatty fish like salmon and rainbow trout, may help improve lipid metabolism and reduce cholesterol levels.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 3, 2014

Early atherosclerotic plaques regress when cholesterol levels are lowered

Researchers found that early but not advanced forms of atherosclerotic plaques in mice regress when 'bad' cholesterol is lowered. The study suggests that preventative cholesterol-lowering treatment could prevent more advanced plaque development and reduce the risk of stroke or heart attack.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateFeb 27, 2014

Strawberries lower cholesterol

A Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology study found that consuming strawberries reduced total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, and triglycerides in healthy volunteers. The antioxidant properties of strawberries were also linked to improved cardiovascular health parameters.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalThe Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry·DateFeb 25, 2014

Could statins be used to fight a deadly viral infection?

A study by Penn microbiologists found that statins can lower cholesterol levels and make cells less susceptible to hantavirus infection. This could lead to potential treatments for the deadly virus, which causes flu-like symptoms and respiratory distress syndrome.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateFeb 11, 2014
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.

Embargoed news on statins and personal genome services

Researchers suggest lower-intensity statin combination therapy as an alternative to high-intensity monotherapy for certain patients. Meanwhile, a medical author argues that personal genome services lack evidence to support their claims and may overwhelm the healthcare system.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 10, 2014

Heart health through gut health

A new study published in Nutrition Reviews found that certain probiotics can significantly reduce LDL-cholesterol and improve other coronary heart disease risk factors. L. reuteri NCIMB 30242 (Cardioviva) was found to be the most effective, with results similar to those of existing therapeutic lifestyle change dietary options.

SourceFoodMinds LLC·JournalNutrition Reviews·DateFeb 6, 2014

Research results show new way for cholesterol treatment

Researchers at Aarhus University have discovered a new way to treat high cholesterol by targeting the sortilin receptor system, which regulates PCSK9 protein levels. This breakthrough may lead to an alternative to statins for patients who cannot tolerate or benefit from them.

SourceAarhus University·JournalCell Metabolism·DateFeb 5, 2014

Mediterranean diet linked with lower risk of heart disease among young US workers

A new study led by Harvard School of Public Health found that a Mediterranean-style diet was associated with lower risk factors for cardiovascular disease among a group of young, working US adults. The study showed that promoting Mediterranean dietary habits could have significant health benefits for young populations.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 4, 2014
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.

GW researcher finds connection in pathogenesis of neurological diseases, HIV

A GW researcher has found a connection between the pathogenesis of prion disease and HIV, discovering that impairment of cellular cholesterol metabolism is key to their development. The study suggests that stimulation of ABCA1, a cellular cholesterol transporter, could inhibit conversion of prions into a pathogenic form.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateFeb 4, 2014

Unexpected player in regulation of blood cholesterol levels

Researchers discovered that kinesin KIF13B concentrates at the cell membrane where LDL is taken up, and promotes endocytosis of LRP1 through caveolae. This unexpected role for a motor protein reveals a new mechanism for regulating blood cholesterol levels.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJan 27, 2014

By the numbers: A simple 10 step approach to reducing the harms of alcohol

Scientists Jürgen Rehm and David Nutt propose a simple 10-point plan to reduce personal and public costs of alcohol. The plan includes monitoring individual intake, limiting consumption, taking breaks from drinking, and implementing government interventions such as minimum pricing, labeling, and treatment.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Psychopharmacology·DateJan 7, 2014
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.

High good and low bad cholesterol levels are healthy for the brain, too

Research from UC Davis Health found that high HDL and low LDL cholesterol levels are associated with lower brain amyloid plaque deposits, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. This study provides evidence for the importance of cholesterol management in preventing cognitive decline.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateDec 30, 2013

Wayne State cholesterol study shows algal extracts may counter effects of high fat diets

A recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition & Metabolism found that algal extracts from Health Enhancement Products, Inc. improved plasma cholesterol profile despite a hypercholesterolemic state induced by a high fat diet. The extracts increased 'good' cholesterol levels and decreased 'bad' cholesterol concentrations.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalJournal of Nutrition and Metabolism·DateDec 20, 2013

How 'good cholesterol' stops inflammation

Researchers discovered HDL acts upon inflammatory processes by activating ATF3, downregulating chronic inflammation in macrophages. This finding suggests a molecular approach for treating inflammation in diseases like diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Immunology·DateDec 9, 2013
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.

High cholesterol fuels the growth and spread of breast cancer

Researchers found that high cholesterol's metabolite, 27HC, mimics estrogen to drive breast cancer growth. Statins appear to reduce this effect, suggesting a link between dietary changes and breast cancer prevention. Human breast tumors express the enzyme making 27HC, which can promote tumor growth.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalScience·DateNov 28, 2013