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Structure of atypical cancer protein paves way for drug development

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have uncovered the structure of a cancer cell receptor protein, paving the way for the development of new cancer-fighting drugs. The study identified key binding sites that can be targeted to modulate the protein's function and prevent tumor growth and metastasis.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 18, 2017

Blood-repellent materials: A new approach to medical implants

Researchers have grown a new type of titanium surface that repels blood, potentially reducing the risk of rejection and complications in medical implants. The 'superhemophobic' material is made by altering the surface chemistry of titanium, which normally attracts blood.

SourceColorado State University·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateJan 18, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Avoiding over-the-counter heartburn meds could save cancer patients' lives

A University of Alberta study found that proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) decrease capecitabine's effectiveness in gastric cancer treatment, reducing progression-free survival by over a month and overall survival by two months. PPIs can also affect colorectal cancer treatment efficacy.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateDec 15, 2016

Old age should not exclude organ donation after death

A study found that patient and kidney survival rates are comparable among donor age groups, including those over 80. Kidneys from octogenarian donors have a higher discard rate, but the difference is not significant. The results support using extended criteria donors, including older adults.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateDec 15, 2016

Unlocking a liver receptor puzzle

Researchers at Emory Health Sciences have made a breakthrough in understanding how diabetes drugs interact with LRH-1, a protein that regulates metabolism of fat and sugar. The study found that small changes to compounds can significantly impact their binding pocket interaction.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateDec 6, 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.

Filling need for fast and accurate assessment of blood's ability to clot

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University developed a portable sensor called ClotChip that can quickly and accurately assess blood's clotting ability. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the diagnosis and treatment of blood clots, allowing for faster and more precise assessments.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateDec 3, 2016

New method improves stability, extends shelf life of protein drugs

A new study has discovered a novel route to improve the stability of protein drugs, significantly extending their shelf life. Stability increases from 14 hours to over 100 days while maintaining activity under stressed conditions, offering potential treatment solutions for diseases in developing countries.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 2, 2016

Program may help increase numbers of live kidney donors

A new program, Live Donor Champion, has been shown to increase knowledge of live donation and comfort approaching others about live donation. The program boosted live donor referrals, with a 5.5-fold increase in having at least one donor referral compared to matched controls on the waiting list.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·DateNov 17, 2016

Solid-phase extraction of ibuprofen from pharmaceuticals

A new approach to solid-phase extraction of ibuprofen from pharmaceuticals has been successfully developed using zirconium dioxide as the extraction material. The procedure demonstrated efficient trapping of ibuprofen in hydrophobic suppository matrices, with recoveries of 95% and 94%, respectively.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Analytical Chemistry·DateNov 14, 2016
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.

New computational tool may speed drug discovery

A new computational tool called fABMACS helps scientists understand how proteins function and develop targeted therapies for diseases like cancer. By simulating chemical changes to drugs, fABMACS predicts improved drug potency and efficacy.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateNov 3, 2016

Making the microbiome part of precision medicine

The microbiome plays a crucial role in human health and disease, making it essential for personalized medicine. Research suggests that understanding the microbiome's interactions with genetics, environment, and lifestyle can lead to more effective treatments, including targeted therapies and antibiotics.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalTrends in Pharmacological Sciences·DateNov 1, 2016

Nanomaterials for neurology: State-of-the-art

Chronic neurodegenerative disorders are progressively altered brain cell functions, but nanotechnology offers a solution with bio-engineered systems that interact at a molecular level. Nanomedicine improves drug efficacy with sustained release, reduced toxicity and fewer side effects.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCNS & Neurological Disorders - Drug Targets·DateNov 1, 2016

Telemedicine, in addition to clinical care, may help manage diabetes

A study published in CMAJ found that telemedicine, including text messaging and web portals, can effectively manage diabetes by monitoring blood sugar levels and motivating patients. The use of interactive formats such as web portals or text messaging was most effective in controlling HbA1C levels.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateOct 31, 2016

Could apps be the answer to self-managing diabetes?

A systematic review of 14 studies found that mobile app users with type 2 diabetes experienced a reduction in average blood glucose levels, with an approximate 0.5% decrease in HbA1c. Younger patients reported more benefits from using apps.

SourceCardiff University·JournalDiabetes Care·DateOct 27, 2016
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Consensus by international federation on drug use at high altitude

The International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation has published guidelines for the safe use of various drugs in mountain environments. The guidelines cover a range of drug types, including alcohol, steroids, and oxygen, and aim to provide evidence-based advice for medical professionals and climbers.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHigh Altitude Medicine & Biology·DateOct 25, 2016

Dangerous drug interactions uncovered with data science

Researchers discovered eight pairs of drugs associated with a higher risk of long QT syndrome, which can cause abnormal heart rhythms and sudden death. The study used big data mining to identify the interactions, and found that ceftriaxone and lansoprazole increased the risk by 1.4 times.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateOct 10, 2016
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Big data analysis is 'next frontier' in identifying harmful drug interactions

Researchers used big data analysis to identify a previously unknown interaction between ceftriaxone and lansoprazole, increasing the risk of acquired long QT syndrome. The study used large datasets of clinical records to confirm the association, paving the way for faster data-driven approaches to identifying potential drug interactions.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateOct 10, 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.

Many physicians still prescribe controversial drug combination

A significant number of patients on clopidogrel therapy are also prescribed proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) omeprazole or esomeprazole, increasing the risk of cardiovascular events. Despite regulatory warnings, many physicians have continued to prescribe this combination.

SourceWiley·JournalPharmacology Research & Perspectives·DateAug 2, 2016

Virtual development of real drugs

A team of scientists has created an online resource, systemsDock, to virtually check the effectiveness and specificity of potential drugs. The tool allows users to screen multiple drugs against multiple biological targets, providing a comprehensive understanding of drug interactions with the biological system.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJul 21, 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
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.

Many drugs can cause or worsen heart failure, cautions new statement

The new scientific statement highlights the potential of commonly used medications and nutritional supplements to cause or worsen heart failure. Healthcare providers should inform patients about all prescription and over-the-counter medications they may be taking, as well as nutritional supplements, to prevent drug-drug interactions.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateJul 11, 2016

New clue to how lithium works in the brain

MIT biologists identify a key protein inhibited by lithium, leading to reduced worm activity, suggesting a mechanism for lithium's effects on the brain; the findings propose a new hypothesis linking BPNT1 inhibition to mood stabilization in humans

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 7, 2016

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease

Recent studies suggest that nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in Alzheimer's disease are influenced by direct interactions with proteins such as Lynx, NMDA-receptors, and the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. This new understanding adds complexity to cholinergic signaling in the brain and may lead to the development of targeted drugs.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Pharmaceutical Design·DateJun 17, 2016

Modeling the correct doses for disease-fighting drugs

Colorado State University's Brad Reisfeld and colleagues create a physiologically-based pharmacokinetic model to predict drug concentrations in the body. The model can account for individual differences and changes in metabolism, allowing for more effective treatment.

SourceColorado State University·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateJun 8, 2016
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.

Targeted treatment for liver cancer under way

Researchers at University of Eastern Finland found that inhibiting Aurora kinase A protein can inhibit liver cancer cell growth, offering potential new treatment option. The study's findings can be used to develop treatments for patients with p53-altered liver cancer.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalNature Medicine·DateMay 24, 2016

Steps that lead to genes being switched on revealed in atomic simulation

Researchers at Imperial College London have created a computer simulation of gene expression interactions, revealing the sequence of events that lead to genes being switched on. This breakthrough could lead to the design of molecules that interfere with or disrupt the process, potentially tackling diseases.

SourceImperial College London·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMay 13, 2016

Gut model HuMiX works like the real thing

Researchers developed HuMiX, a human microbiome research tool that accurately models the complex interactions between human cells and bacteria. The model allows for the study of metabolic processes, including communication between the intestine and brain, and has potential applications for understanding neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 11, 2016
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.

Unique nano-capsules promise the targeted drug delivery

Researchers developed gel nano-capsules that can release medicine in response to temperature changes, improving the efficiency of targeted drug delivery. The innovation overcomes existing challenges, such as aggregation and electrostatic interactions.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 4, 2016

Pitt computational model finds new protein-protein interactions in schizophrenia

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have developed a computational model to discover new protein-protein interactions associated with schizophrenia. The study identified over 500 never-before-known PPIs, which could lead to greater understanding of the disease and its relation to other complex diseases.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalSchizophrenia·DateApr 27, 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.

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.

More elderly using dangerous drug combinations

A new study found that one in six older adults now regularly use potentially deadly combinations of prescription and over-the-counter medications and dietary supplements. The study identified 15 potentially life-threatening drug combinations, with nearly half involving nonprescription medications or supplements.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMar 21, 2016

Slight change to antibacterial drug may improve TB treatments

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have discovered a new compound that is more effective against the tuberculosis enzyme and maintains activity against resistant forms. The findings could lead to a more effective treatment for the deadly disease, which killed 1.5 million people in 2014.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 15, 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.

New insights into the function of the main class of drug targets

Researchers at the University of Basel elucidated how drugs interact with cell surface proteins and transmit signals to the cellular interior. Using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy, they obtained unprecedented details into G protein coupled receptor function.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature·DateFeb 3, 2016

Researchers confirm attitude to aging can have a direct effect on health

Negative attitudes towards aging have been shown to negatively affect both physical and cognitive health in older adults. Participants with positive attitudes exhibited improved cognitive ability. Researchers highlight the importance of societal-wide interventions targeting attitudes towards aging.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateJan 29, 2016

Scientists take steps to make weak TB drugs strong again

Researchers found that fluoroquinolones interact with an enzyme in TB germs, but not as strongly as thought. They discovered a new way to make the drugs more potent by targeting broken DNA within the gyrase complex. This could lead to improved treatments for multidrug-resistant TB and other bacterial infections.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 18, 2016

Low blood levels of bicarbonate linked to earlier death in healthy older adults

A recent study found that low blood levels of bicarbonate are associated with an increased risk of premature death in healthy older adults. Participants with normal or high bicarbonate levels had a similar risk of dying compared to those with low bicarbonate levels, which was linked to a 24% higher mortality rate.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJan 14, 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.

Sweet and sticky: Bacteria use sugars to bind to human cells

Researchers at Griffith University have made a groundbreaking discovery about how bacteria interact with human cells, revealing high-affinity biomolecular interactions between glycans that were previously thought to be weak or non-existent. This finding opens up new avenues for developing vaccines and drugs to block infections.

SourceGriffith University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 14, 2015

Blood thinner, antidiabetic drug mix increases hospitalizations

A new study has found that combining the blood thinner warfarin with certain diabetes medications increases hospitalizations for falls, altered mental state, and insulin shock among Medicare patients. The study's findings have significant implications for patient safety and healthcare costs.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 7, 2015
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.

Arrested development

A University of Alberta study found that homeless people who felt disrespected during police interactions retained negative attitudes towards police for at least two years. The study suggests teaching empathic listening and communication skills to police can improve interactions with the homeless population.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalInternational Journal of Law and Psychiatry·DateNov 16, 2015

Equations used to place patients on transplant waitlists may create disparities

A study found that three commonly used kidney function equations yield discordant results for transplant waitlist qualification, potentially leading to significant differences in qualification time and disadvantage patients. The Cockroft-Gault equation most often disadvantaged patients compared to the MDRD and CKD-EPI equations.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·DateNov 6, 2015

Likely drug interactions in placenta could harm fetus

A new laboratory study finds that mothers taking certain medications during pregnancy may be at risk of birth defects or stunted fetal growth. The research highlights the need for more detailed knowledge of placental drug transport to preserve fetal health.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateOct 14, 2015
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.