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Smokers needed angioplasty and stenting a decade before non-smokers

A new statewide study in Michigan found that smokers needed their blocked arteries fixed nearly a decade earlier than non-smokers, with patients with obesity undergoing procedures four years earlier than non-obese patients. The study suggests that preventing smoking and obesity could delay the onset of heart disease.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 9, 2021

Major study of diabetes trends shows Americans' blood sugar control is getting worse

A nationwide study found that blood sugar control among US adults with diabetes declined significantly between 2007-2010 and 2015-2018. The proportion of adults achieving glycemic control dropped from 57.4% to 50.5%, while blood pressure control decreased, but cholesterol control levels remained stable.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 9, 2021

New research examines the science behind superfoods

A new study found that consuming mangos can help lower chronic disease risk by improving fasting glucose levels and reducing inflammation. Researchers also discovered that adding herbs and spices to the diet may help lower blood pressure, while ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric supplements were linked with improved cholesterol benefits.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJun 7, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

Cholesterol levels sustainably lowered using base editing

Researchers used base editing to introduce a single point mutation in the PCSK9 gene, reducing LDL cholesterol levels by up to two-thirds. This precision technology holds promise for treating inherited metabolic liver diseases.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMay 19, 2021

New immunotherapy 'highly effective' against hepatitis B

Scientists at UCL have identified a new immunotherapy that targets acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase (ACAT), an enzyme helping to manage cholesterol levels in cells. Boosting ACAT inhibition boosts specific immune cells fighting both the virus and cancerous tumours, demonstrating its effectiveness as an immunotherapy.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 14, 2021

Controlling cholesterol in microglia alleviates chronic pain, opioid-free

Researchers at University of California San Diego School found that controlling cholesterol in microglia can alleviate chronic pain, a common side effect of chemotherapy. They developed a novel therapeutic approach using a modified version of apoA-I binding protein to reverse the harmful effects of excessive cholesterol.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMay 10, 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.

Cholestenone shows antibiotic properties against H. pylori

Cholestenone inhibits H. pylori cell wall biosynthesis by suppressing CGL production, effective against clarithromycin-resistant strains and eradicating bacteria in mice fed with cholestenone-containing diets.

SourceShinshu University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 27, 2021

Preeclampsia during pregnancy increases stroke risk later in life

Researchers at University of Utah Health found a strong association between preeclampsia and stroke risk in women who had the condition during pregnancy. Over an average follow-up period of 32 years, women with preeclampsia were 3.8 times more likely to have strokes compared to those without the condition.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 26, 2021

Genetic discovery in songbird provides new insights

A study published in PNAS found that zebra finches have a low-density lipoprotein receptor gene with key domains missing, allowing them to carry high levels of good cholesterol while avoiding high cholesterol-related diseases. This genetic adaptation may hold clues for improving cardiovascular disease treatment.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2021

Review: Changing views on atherosclerosis

Recent advances in understanding atherosclerosis have shifted traditional views on who is at risk for heart attacks and strokes, highlighting the importance of HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and inflammation. This review paper explores these changes and their implications for treatment and prevention.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature·DateApr 21, 2021
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.

Heart health of shift workers linked to body clock

Research found that shift workers with a deviated body clock had higher cardiovascular risk, even after adjusting for sociodemographic and lifestyle factors. The study's findings suggest that staff with atypical work schedules may need closer monitoring for heart health.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateApr 16, 2021

Mediterranean diet with lean beef may lower risk factors for heart disease

A randomized controlled study found that a Mediterranean diet combined with small portions of lean beef helped lower LDL cholesterol and non-HDL cholesterol levels. The study suggests that healthy diets can include a wide variety of foods, including red meat, while still being heart-friendly.

SourcePenn State·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateApr 14, 2021

Another way "good" cholesterol is good: combatting inflammation

Researchers discovered that higher levels of HDL cholesterol with improved anti-inflammatory capacity are associated with lower risk of cardiovascular events. The study suggests that adding this measure to risk scores may improve heart disease prediction and patient protection.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateApr 12, 2021
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.

Is a calorie a calorie? Not always, when it comes to almonds

Researchers found that almonds contain approximately 20% unabsorbed calories after digestion, which can result in reduced energy absorption and potential weight loss. This finding could alleviate concerns about nuts contributing to weight gain, allowing for healthier snacking options.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateApr 12, 2021

Scientists find genetic link to clogged arteries

Researchers have identified a genetic link to clogged arteries, finding that a specific gene variant increases the risk of coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. The discovery provides new insights into the causes of cardiovascular disease and offers potential therapeutic targets for treatment.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 31, 2021

Cholesterol may be key to new therapies for Alzheimer's disease, diabetes

A new approach has led to the discovery of a small molecule that may help regulate cholesterol levels in the brain, making it a potential therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease. Increasing the activity of ABCA1 is expected to positively influence insulin signaling and reduce inflammation in the brain.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalACS Pharmacology & Translational Science·DateMar 25, 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.

Massey researcher finds new strategy for fighting brain cancer

Researchers at VCU Massey Cancer Center have identified a crucial link between the development and growth of glioblastoma multiforme, the most aggressive type of brain cancer. The gene YTHDF2 drives increased cholesterol levels in GBM cells, paving the way for potential new treatments targeting this gene.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 23, 2021

Cholesterol accumulation contributes to genetic movement disorder

Researchers at Greenwood Genetic Center have identified cholesterol accumulation as a key contributor to the symptoms of genetic movement disorders, including seizures and balance issues. The study provides new hope for treatments targeting cholesterol accumulation, such as the drug 2-hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin, which showed signi...

SourceGreenwood Genetic Center·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateMar 22, 2021

How hypertension leads to atherosclerosis research scientists at

Researchers at Aarhus University and hospital have identified the fundamental step linking hypertension to atherosclerosis, finding that hypertension causes increased accumulation of bad cholesterol in arterial walls. This discovery may aid in developing new treatments targeting disease mechanisms.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateFeb 25, 2021

How healthy lifestyle behaviours can improve cholesterol profiles

A new study published in eLife found that combining healthy lifestyle interventions with cholesterol-lowering medications yields the greatest benefits to heart health. Healthy lifestyles, including exercise and a balanced diet, can lower LDL cholesterol and increase HDL cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease.

SourceeLife·DateFeb 16, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

New evidence linking eggs, cholesterol to cardiovascular death

A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that whole egg consumption was positively associated with increased all-cause mortality, while egg whites or substitutes were negatively associated. Replacing half a whole egg with egg whites/substitutes reduced cardiovascular disease mortality by 3%.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateFeb 9, 2021

Vegan diet better for weight loss and cholesterol control than Mediterranean diet

A new study found that a vegan diet is more effective than the Mediterranean diet for improving health markers and boosting weight loss. Participants who followed a low-fat vegan diet lost an average of 6 kg and had significant reductions in visceral fat, total and LDL cholesterol levels.

SourcePhysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Nutrition·DateFeb 5, 2021

How vitamins, steroids and potential antivirals might affect SARS-CoV-2

A new study from the University of Bristol suggests that vitamins D, K, and A could help combat COVID-19 by binding to the viral Spike protein. This reduces SARS-CoV-2 infectivity, while high cholesterol may enable the virus. Researchers identified potential antiviral drug candidates among approved pharmaceuticals and dietary components.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateJan 29, 2021
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.

Cholesterol starvation kills lymphoma cells

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a novel therapy that uses synthetic nanoparticles to trigger the destruction of lymphoma cells by depriving them of cholesterol. This approach has potential for targeting other cancers with an appetite for cholesterol, such as kidney and ovarian cancer.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJan 25, 2021

New perspectives challenge the idea that saturated fats cause heart disease

A new model explains why saturated fats increase blood cholesterol and why this should be dangerous. The 'Homeoviscous Adaptation to Dietary Lipids' (HADL) model suggests that cells adjust membrane fluidity according to changes in diet, leading to a decrease in blood cholesterol levels when consuming polyunsaturated fats.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJan 22, 2021

Important cause of preeclampsia discovered

Cholesterol crystals are identified as a primary cause of preeclampsia, triggering an inflammatory response that affects the communication between mother and foetus. This discovery may lead to more effective treatment options, including cholesterol-lowering medications.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateJan 21, 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.

Large transporter protein linked to schizophrenia

Researchers at Kyoto University's Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences have identified a possible link between a large cholesterol transport protein and schizophrenia. Mice with disrupted ABCA13 protein showed abnormal behaviour, including impaired prepulse inhibition, suggesting a potential role in the pathophysiology of ps...

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateDec 29, 2020

The ABCs of species evolution

Researchers propose that a family of transporter proteins, including ABCA1, enabled vertebrates to thrive on land and develop complex body structures. The protein regulated cholesterol levels, allowing for the development of sophisticated biological processes.

SourceKyoto University·JournalFEBS Letters·DateDec 23, 2020

Protecting against atherosclerosis at the molecular level

CREB3L3 protects against atherosclerosis by inhibiting SREBP's expression. Absence or overexpression of CREB3L3 exacerbates high blood lipid levels and atherosclerosis. The study provides insight into the molecular basis of atherosclerosis and its potential therapeutic targets.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateDec 20, 2020

Carrots are healthy, but active enzyme unlocks full benefits

A study by University of Illinois researchers found that beta-carotene's full health benefits require an active enzyme to produce vitamin A. The active enzyme BCO1 converts beta-carotene into vitamin A, which helps lower bad cholesterol and protect against atherosclerosis.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateDec 11, 2020

How blood and wealth can predict future disability

A study from the University of East Anglia found that blood biomarkers such as cholesterol, inflammation, and liver function can predict future disability and healthcare demand. The researchers also discovered a pro-rich inequity in health care use, where people with higher incomes are more likely to seek medical attention.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalEconomics & Human Biology·DateDec 9, 2020
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.

Study finds 10 metabolites associated with risk of stroke

Researchers identified 10 metabolites associated with the risk of stroke, including a lower risk for ischemic stroke and higher risk for hemorrhagic stroke. Histidine and high-density lipoprotein cholesterols were found to have protective effects, while pyruvate increased the risk of ischemic stroke.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateDec 2, 2020

Clothing, tattoos could be used to monitor patient health

Researchers have developed microfiber- and nanofiber-based wearables that can track vital signs like blood pressure and cholesterol levels. These technologies could lead to non-invasive health monitoring for chronic illnesses.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateDec 1, 2020
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.

Obese people found to be at increased risk of COVID-19

Researchers from Queen Mary University of London used Mendelian Randomization to investigate cardiovascular risk factors and COVID-19 infection. Individuals with high BMI and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol are at increased risk of getting COVID-19, according to the study.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalFrontiers in Genetics·DateNov 16, 2020

A novel monoclonal antibody therapy cuts LDL cholesterol by half in a high-risk patient population,

A phase 2 study found that evinacumab reduced LDL cholesterol by 50% in patients with severe hypercholesterolemia resistant to standard treatments. The therapy works through a different mechanism than existing drugs and shows promise for treating refractory hypercholesterolemia.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 15, 2020

The Lancet: Older adults are at greater risk of cardiovascular events than younger people, and benefit at least as much from cholesterol-lowering medications, two studies suggest

Two studies suggest that older adults aged 70 and over with elevated LDL cholesterol levels have the highest incidence of heart attacks and cardiovascular diseases. Cholesterol-lowering therapies, including statins, are as effective at reducing cardiovascular events in this age group as they are in younger people.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 10, 2020
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.

Adults with endocrine disorders have an increased risk of heart disease

The Endocrine Society's Clinical Practice Guideline emphasizes the importance of evaluating high cholesterol and triglycerides in adults with endocrine disorders. The guideline provides recommendations for managing lipid abnormalities and cardiovascular risk in patients with hypothyroidism, menopause, and Cushing's syndrome.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateOct 28, 2020

Generic cholesterol drugs save medicare billions of dollars, study finds

A study by UT Southwestern Medical Center found that switching from brand-name to generic cholesterol medications between 2014 and 2018 saved Medicare billions of dollars. The total costs on these drugs went down despite an increase in prescriptions for LDL-lowering drugs, with the number of generic prescriptions rising by 35%.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateSep 9, 2020
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.

Cholesterol's effects on cellular membranes

A new study led by Assistant Professor Rana Ashkar of Virginia Tech Department of Physics finds that cholesterol actually does adhere to biophysical principles and causes membrane stiffening.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 2020

Cholesterol drug combinations could cut health risk for European patients

A large European study shows that combining lipid-lowering therapies can further reduce cholesterol levels and improve health outcomes for high-risk patients. Current clinical guidelines are not always followed in practice, highlighting a need for better cholesterol management across Europe.

SourceImperial College London·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateAug 28, 2020