Researchers found that an infection late in pregnancy or after birth may trigger autoimmune process attacking the bile ducts, leading to scarring and blockage. This discovery points to new diagnostic tests and improved treatment options for biliary atresia.
A new study reports a low stricture recurrence rate of postoperative biliary strictures after endoscopic stent placement, with successful retreatment options available. The study followed up on patients who underwent the treatment from 2001 to 2010, finding that most remained asymptomatic and had normal liver function tests.
Concordia University researchers have identified lithocholic acid (LCA) as a compound that extends the lifespan of normally aging yeast, which shares common elements with humans. The findings suggest that LCA may have significant implications for human health and longevity.
A case report describes a rare instance of vanishing bile duct syndrome (VBDS) secondary to nevirapine use in an HIV-positive pregnant female. The patient experienced liver dysfunction, jaundice, and itching after starting triple-drug therapy with nevirapine. Liver biopsy revealed cholestatic hepatitis, leading to severe ductopenia and...
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.
Researchers have discovered a new route for delivering cholesterol into the feces, revising understanding of cholesterol loss. This finding suggests that an alternative pathway may deliver cholesterol directly to the intestine through the bloodstream, potentially reducing side effects associated with bile-based cholesterol delivery.
Research reveals hepcidin-25's presence in various biological fluids, including saliva, bile, ascitic, and pleural fluid. This finding has implications for understanding anaemia of chronic disease, iron overload, and infectious disorders.
A study evaluating INT-747 added to ursodeoxycholic acid found significant improvements in liver enzyme levels in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis. The results suggest a potential new treatment option for this chronic disease, which damages bile ducts and leads to liver scarring.
Patients with more bile duct visualization on imaging studies and fewer liver metastases had greater bile output after biliary drainage. However, daily observation of bile output and serum bilirubin reduction is crucial for determining procedure success.
A common type of chronic diarrhoea, affecting one in 100 people in the UK, may be caused by a hormone deficiency. The study suggests that bile acid production is linked to decreased levels of Fibroblast Growth Factor 19 (FGF19) in people with the condition.
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
A study found that ERCP quality outcomes, including complication rates, compare favorably with those of academic centers in a community hospital setting. Technical success rates met or exceeded recommended levels, indicating competence among gastroenterologists performing ERCP.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic found high-dose ursodeoxycholic acid to be detrimental in treating primary sclerosing cholangitis. The six-year trial showed that serious adverse events were more common in the high-dose group, highlighting the need for further research on better treatment options.
Researchers discovered elevated populations of NK cells in the bile ducts of infants with biliary atresia, which led to tissue damage. Blocking the Nkg2d receptor and depleting NK cells prevented damage to bile duct surface tissues.
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.
BA profiling in IBD patients showed decreased levels of certain BAs, while UC patients with liver and gallbladder diseases exhibited increased primary and secondary BAs. The study also found accelerated detoxification activity in IBD patients and a significant increase in primary and secondary BAs in UC patients with extraintestinal ma...
The X-Suit NIR stent provides flexible construction to fit any biliary duct and is constructed of Nitinol for durability. It has a proprietary NIRflex cell design that offers superior radial support and reduces stress on the tissue, making it ideal for re-establishing biliary flow.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have developed new tests that significantly improve the detection rate of bile duct and pancreatic cancer, increasing it from 20% to 43%. The combination of cytology and FISH analysis was found to be more effective in diagnosing these cancers.
Researchers developed a method to estimate fetal radiation doses from ERCP procedures, revealing that doses may occasionally exceed 10 mGy. The study emphasizes the need for physicians to accurately estimate fetal radiation exposure to determine appropriate treatment and minimize risks.
A new endoscope, Spyglass Spyscope, was used in a multi-center study to diagnose and treat disorders of the bile duct, liver, and pancreas. The procedure showed promising results, with clearance of stones achieved in 37 patients after one procedure and modification of diagnoses in 20 patients.
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.
Researchers at NIST and Rice University have discovered a new method for self-assembling carbon nanotubes using bile acid, allowing for the creation of ordered, aligned arrangements of individual nanotubes. This process is inexpensive and does not require external magnetic or electrical fields.
Researchers have discovered a new genetic disease that can lead to severe liver damage due to inadequate bile secretion. A mutation in the ABCB4 gene causes low levels of phosphatidylcholine in bile, resulting in liver cell damage and cirrhosis.
Research reveals T tube patients with duodenal-biliary reflux, sphincter of Oddi hypomotility, and abnormal gastrointestinal hormone secretion. The disorder may cause recurrence of gallstones.
A new study combines endoscopic treatment with ursodeoxycholic acid to effectively treat non-transplant patients with biliary cast syndrome. The approach led to normalization of liver function tests and improved symptoms in a 76-year-old diabetic patient.
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.
A study published in Archives of Surgery found that limiting resident surgeon's work hours to 80 per week resulted in fewer patients experiencing bile duct injuries or other complications after gallbladder surgery. The analysis revealed reduced odds of bile duct injury and total complications during the second time period.
A study analyzed patient cohorts and imaging studies to determine the differentiating feature between benign and malignant bile duct strictures, finding involvement of blood vessels was significant but not conclusive due to low incidence rate.
Scientists at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine discovered that FOXA2 regulates genes involved in maintaining proper bile levels. The study suggests that increasing FOXA2 expression may be a novel therapeutic goal for treating diseases like primary sclerosing cholangitis and biliary atresia.
A rare post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pneumoperitoneum case was reported, resulting from a large peripheral hepatic metastasis rupture. The patient was successfully managed conservatively with close clinical and radiological surveillance.
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.
Researchers found black pigment stones significantly impair gallbladder contractility and ejection rate, leading to bile stagnation. This new understanding may shed light on the disease mechanism of gallstone diseases.
A new case report presents an interesting diagnosis of IPN-B with histopathological findings and emphasizes the importance of cholangiography in diagnosing bile duct dilatation. The patient's liver specimens showed intraductal papillary proliferation, fibrovascular cores, and carcinoma in situ.
Dr. David Mangelsdorf, chairman of pharmacology at UT Southwestern, was elected to the National Academy of Sciences for his contributions to understanding lipid and bile acid metabolism. His work on nuclear receptors and ligands has led to insights into cholesterol regulation.
Researchers found that bile acid derivatives can activate the vitamin D receptor without causing calcium buildup, suggesting a new therapeutic direction. Additionally, overexpressing lipoprotein lipase in mice improved their tolerance to cold temperatures by increasing muscular thermogenesis.
Routine diagnostic approaches for bile duct cancer are only moderately sensitive, with a combination of brush cytology and forceps biopsy yielding only a minor increase in sensitivity. The study highlights the need for additional diagnostic techniques to improve detection rates.
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
This study found that laparoscopic hepatic left lateral lobectomy combined with fiber choledochoscopic exploration of the common bile duct reduces liver function damage compared to traditional open operations. The procedure also significantly decreases post-operative pain and complications such as biliary fistula, cholangitic stenosis,...
Researchers found that combining stenting with photodynamic therapy improved survival rates for patients with advanced liver bile duct cancer, reducing mortality by 57% compared to stenting treatment alone. The study suggests that this combined approach can help extend survival rates for these patients.
Researchers found that combining ursodeoxycholic acid and glucocorticoids increases bicarbonate production in the bile, improving liver function. This discovery could lead to more effective treatments with fewer transplants, saving lives.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A University of Illinois study found that exercise-trained mice had fewer gallstones than sedentary mice, with improved cholesterol levels and increased bile acid solubility. The researchers identified potential mechanisms to explain this link, providing new insights into the benefits of physical activity for reducing gallstone formation.
Two studies found that genetic variants in metabolic genes impact cholesterol metabolism, while Crohn's disease contributes to atherosclerosis. Researchers also identified a potential treatment for bile acid disorders using FXR targeted therapies.
A case report published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology presents a new technique for biliary drainage using endosonography (ES) guidance. The study shows that ESBD is a safe and effective method without pain or restriction, potentially replacing percutaneous transhepatic cholangio-drainage (PTCD).
A study of 200 consecutive patients found that combining clinical history, ultrasonography, and liver function tests effectively excludes common bile duct stones. The triple test has high sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing CBDS, making it a recommended pre-operative assessment for laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
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.
A recent study discovered a gene variant that significantly increases the risk of developing gallstones, with affected individuals being two to three times more likely to develop the condition. The relevant gene contains instructions for building a molecular pump that transports cholesterol into bile ducts.
Researchers have successfully transplanted human gut microbes into mice, providing insights into the metabolic system and its effects on fat absorption and digestion. The study found that gut microbes influence bile acid metabolism and fiber breakdown, impacting overall health.
A recent study has established a significant correlation between bile duct obstruction and the growth rate of bile duct cancer cells in animals. In fact, cancer cells in obstructed bile ducts grew up to five times faster than those without obstruction, leading to increased metastasis outside the liver.
A new stent has been shown to relieve GI upper cancer distress by incorporating an anti-reflux valve, which reduces backflow of intestinal contents into the bile duct. The study found that patients with the Dua stent had a longer median of 145 days without complications compared to those with standard stents.
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.
A new bile duct stent called Dua Anti-Reflux Valve has been shown to improve the quality of life for patients with pancreatic and bile duct cancers. The stent's anti-reflux valve reduces backflow of intestinal contents, resulting in fewer repeat procedures and better outcomes.
A report from the Commonwealth Fund estimates that private Medicare Advantage (MA) plans were paid $922 more for each beneficiary than traditional Medicare's fee-for-service program in 2005, totaling over $5.2 billion. Eliminating these extra payments could save Medicare $30 billion over five years and be redirected to enhance benefits.
Bile acids play a crucial role in signaling the liver to regenerate tissue, with research suggesting that an imbalance in these compounds can trigger the process. Understanding this mechanism could lead to new treatments for liver disease.
Researchers discovered a gut protein called FXR that protects the small intestine from bacterial invasion by binding to bile acids. This finding provides hope for treating conditions of the small intestine, such as sepsis and intestinal damage.
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.
Researchers discovered a new hormone called fibroblast growth factor 15 (FGF15) that regulates bile acid production in the liver and prevents damage. FGF15 is produced in the small intestine and can potentially treat conditions like cholestasis by reducing harmful bile acid levels.
The study found that a hormone called fibroblast growth factor 15 (FGF15) limits the production of bile acid by the liver. FGF15 is produced in response to high levels of bile acid, triggering its secretion and regulating the body's digestive processes.
A new contrast agent enables quicker and more thorough MRI screenings for potential living liver donors. The study found that this agent can image the liver, bile duct, and vessels simultaneously, reducing the need for separate examinations.
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.
Metal stents have been shown to be a safe and effective treatment for bile duct obstructions caused by pancreatic cancer. The study found that 90% of patients had open stents after three months and 80% after one year, with minimal complications.
Researchers found that activating FXR can prevent gallstone formation by restoring balance of bile acids and phospholipids. The study suggests a potential new direction for diagnosis and prevention of cholesterol gallstone disease, with implications for patients who have had their gallbladders removed.
Researchers discovered that inflammatory genes are activated and control bile duct obstruction in biliary atresia, a disease affecting up to 50% of children undergoing liver transplants. Blocking these inflammatory signals may prevent disease progression and increase long-term survival.
The policy of increasing payments to private managed care plans has added $2.75 billion to Medicare's costs in 2004, with benefits mainly going to urban plans that have more enrollees. Despite the increase, only 40% of Medicare beneficiaries can access a Medicare Advantage plan.
A study on transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) and prion protein PrPSc accumulation in muscle tissue of infected rodents found that the defective form of PrPSc is present prior to clinical symptoms. The accumulation of PrPSc is greatest after clinical symptoms are well established.
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.
A study by Emory University researchers found that subordinate cichlid fish had larger gall bladders with dark bile, leading to slower growth and potentially linking social stress to digestive problems. The discovery could hold clues for understanding human gallstones.
A traditional herbal remedy has been found to improve bilirubin clearance in neonates, offering a potential complement to Western pharmaceutical treatments. The discovery involves the activation of the nuclear receptor CAR by an herbal tea, highlighting the intersection of Eastern and Western medical practices.
A University of Minnesota study has found that tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) significantly reduces injury associated with hemorrhagic strokes in rats. The bile acid crosses the blood-brain barrier and induces survival pathways while inhibiting destructive ones, leading to a 50% decrease in lesion volume.
Two new genes, Abcg5 and Abcg8, play a critical role in cholesterol secretion into the bile, essential for maintaining cholesterol homeostasis. Disrupting these genes can lead to increased plasma levels of cholesterol and plant sterols, associated with premature heart disease.
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
Researchers discovered that tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) can cross the blood-brain barrier and reduce apoptosis in mice with the HD gene, improving neurological cell function. The bile acid's anti-apoptotic qualities may also have potential for treating other chronic neurodegenerative conditions.
Researchers discovered that guggulsterone blocks the FXR receptor, regulating cholesterol metabolism. The study suggests that guggulsterone could lead to new drugs to control cholesterol levels and potentially treat hyperlipidemia.
The NIH/Office of the Director's panel endorses ERCP for diagnosing suspected ampullary cancers and treating conditions like symptomatic gallstone disease, but emphasizes caution due to potential complications such as pancreatitis.