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Seeing the invisible -- A novel gas imaging system

Researchers developed a novel gas imaging system to visualize and measure gases released through the skin in real-time. The system uses VOCs present in circulating blood to diagnose metabolic disorders, genetic diseases, and cancer.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalACS Sensors·DateFeb 3, 2020

Elevated fasting blood sugar in pregnancy linked to harmful outcomes for mothers, babies

A new study by the University of Alberta found that pregnant women with elevated fasting blood sugar levels are at a higher risk of complications, including large babies, high blood pressure, and preterm births. Despite receiving diabetes drug treatments, these women were more likely to experience adverse outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalDiabetic Medicine·DateFeb 3, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Blood test identifies risk of disease linked to stroke and dementia

A UCLA-led study found that six blood proteins can be used to gauge a person's risk for cerebral small vessel disease, which affects an estimated 11 million older adults in the U.S. The test correlates with white matter changes in the brain and provides a more quantitative scale for evaluating the disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 3, 2020

Presence of blood clot associated with rapid aortic aneurysm growth

A study published in Radiology found that patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms and blood clots on the aorta wall experience faster growth and increased rupture risk. The researchers suggest adjusting imaging follow-up schedules for these patients to reduce the risk of rupture.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJan 28, 2020

Human longevity largest study of its kind shows early detection of disease & disease risks

A groundbreaking study published in PNAS used a multi-modal precision health platform to identify adults at risk of key health conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders. The study found that integrating whole-genome sequencing with advanced imaging and blood metabolites led to clinically significant findin...

SourceMerryman Communications·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 27, 2020

Weight loss and health improvements with Mediterranean, fasting & paleo diets

Overweight adults who followed the Mediterranean, Intermittent Fasting and Paleo diets experienced modest weight loss (2-4kg) and clinically significant improvements in blood pressure. The Mediterranean diet also improved blood sugar levels, while the fasting diet led to slightly more weight loss.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJan 23, 2020

Ultrahigh-temporal-resolution PET imaging

Researchers developed a total-body PET/CT scanner with advanced reconstruction techniques to capture radiotracer transport in humans at 100 ms timescales. This approach offers clear images of cardiac blood pool changes throughout the cardiac cycle, enabling real-time motion tracking and neural activity analysis.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 20, 2020
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.

Do studies underestimate the prevalence of typhoid?

A study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases found that typhoid prevalence is likely higher than estimated due to missed blood cultures, with patients more likely to have cultures if older, feverish or suspected urinary tract infection.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJan 16, 2020

Young stem cell donors harbor undetectable mutations linked to disease

A pilot study of 25 donor-recipient pairs reveals young stem cell donors have previously undetected and potentially disease-causing mutations in their blood stem cells. These mutations, linked to post-transplant complications, are more prevalent in young donors than thought.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 15, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Racial disparities in heart failure explained

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found a significant association between malignant left ventricular hypertrophy and an increased risk of heart failure among black individuals. The study, published in the journal Circulation, suggests that early intervention can be beneficial in preventing future risk.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCirculation·DateJan 14, 2020

Reducing the risk of blood clots in artificial heart valves

Researchers have identified a mechanism that contributes to clot formation in mechanical heart valves. By modifying the valve's design, turbulent vortices can be eliminated, reducing the risk of blood clots and strokes. This breakthrough could lead to life without blood thinners for thousands of people with artificial heart valves.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalPhysical Review Fluids·DateJan 13, 2020

Grasshoppers' response to gravity

The American grasshopper's circulatory system responds dramatically to changes in body position due to gravity, affecting blood and air distribution. Physiological compensation mechanisms similar to vertebrates suggest an ancient, widespread response to gravitational forces.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 13, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Metabolic syndrome associated with increased risk of blood clot recurrence

A new study published in Blood Advances reveals that patients with metabolic syndrome are more likely to experience recurrent blood clots. The study analyzed 151,054 patients diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis and found that those with comorbid metabolic syndrome conditions had a higher risk of VTE recurrence.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood Advances·DateJan 9, 2020

'Gift of life' marketing fails to motivate many donors

A study published in PLOS ONE found that using altruistic terminology may not be effective in targeting non-donors. Instead, focusing on a sense of social obligation could lead to better cut-through rates. The researchers also discovered that blood donors tend to have higher primary prosocial characteristics like altruism and empathy.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 9, 2020
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.

Directly measuring function in tiny hearts

Researchers at Children's National Hospital developed a direct measurement technique for cardiac output in newborns, utilizing changes in blood velocity after injecting saline. The study used ultrasound dilution and reported promising results, with potential implications for personalized care of critically ill newborns.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalJOURNAL OF PEDIATRICS AND NEONATAL MEDICINE·DateJan 8, 2020
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.

Need to control blood sugar? There's a drink for that, says UBC prof

Researchers found that a ketone monoester drink can help participants with Type 2 diabetes and pre-diabetes better control their blood sugar levels without insulin changes. The study's lead author notes that while ketone supplements are not a magic bullet, they may be another strategy for managing the disease.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJan 7, 2020

UNC expert helps treat astronaut's blood clot during NASA mission

A US astronaut on the International Space Station developed a deep vein thrombosis, prompting UNC expert Stephan Moll to consult and develop a treatment plan. Moll advised on using Enoxaparin and Apixaban to effectively treat the blood clot, which was successfully managed over 90 days.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 2, 2020

Intermittent fasting: live 'fast,' live longer?

A review article published in The New England Journal of Medicine suggests that intermittent fasting can improve blood sugar regulation, increase resistance to stress, and suppress inflammation. Studies have shown that this adaptation may trigger a slower metabolic process, which can lead to weight loss and reduced belly fat.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 25, 2019
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.

One-off genetic score can detect stroke risk from birth

A genetic risk score can identify individuals at a 3-fold increased risk of developing ischaemic stroke, a devastating condition. This scoring system may require more intensive preventive measures than current guidelines recommend.

SourceBaker Heart and Diabetes Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 20, 2019

Obesity may alter nearly 70% of routine blood tests in children

A new study found that over 24 routine blood tests are affected by childhood obesity, including liver function tests and inflammation markers. This discovery could help doctors better interpret test results and provide more accurate diagnoses.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateDec 17, 2019
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 doses of vitamin D for critically ill patients yield minimal benefit

A large study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that high doses of vitamin D do not reduce mortality or improve non-fatal outcomes in critically ill patients. The Vitamin D to Improve Outcomes by Leveraging Early Treatment (VIOLET) study included over 200 researchers and showed no difference in mortality rates, hos...

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 11, 2019

Refined carbs may trigger insomnia, finds study

A new study by Columbia University researchers suggests that a diet high in refined carbohydrates, particularly added sugars, may be partly to blame for insomnia. Women who consumed more vegetables and whole fruits were less likely to develop problems with insomnia.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateDec 11, 2019

New study provides insight into chronic kidney disease

Researchers discovered a link between uremic solutes and Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AHR) activation in CKD patients. This finding may lead to new clinical blood tests and medication development targeting AHR inhibitors for treating CKD complications.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalKidney International·DateDec 4, 2019
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.

Beta blocker use identified as hospitalization risk factor in 'stiff heart' heart failure

Researchers found that beta-blockers increase the risk of hospitalizations for heart failure among patients with 'stiff heart' heart failure, characterized by a normal squeeze but impaired relaxation of the heart muscle. Beta-blocker use was associated with a 74% higher risk of hospitalizations in this patient population.

SourceLarner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 4, 2019

Better way to interpret blood tests to diagnose pulmonary embolism

A new approach to interpreting D-dimer blood tests can help rule out pulmonary embolism and reduce the need for CT scans, freeing up resources and reducing radiation exposure. The study found that a higher-than-usual D-dimer level can be considered a negative result in patients with low probability of having a pulmonary embolism.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 27, 2019

Injection of magnetizable fluid could extend trauma patients' survival time

Scientists are testing a magnetically-actuated fluidic valve to reduce bleeding in trauma patients. The system uses an injectable magnetorheological suspension and externally placed magnets to create an obstruction, halting blood loss and stabilizing blood pressure. This could potentially extend survival time by at least 30 minutes.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 25, 2019
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.

People with type 1 diabetes struggle with blood sugar control despite CGMs

Researchers found that adjusting CGM alarm settings can inform patients about high or low blood sugar events early, enabling timely treatments. The study suggests simpler adjustments to these thresholds could lead to better management of hypo- and hyperglycemia for people with type 1 diabetes.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalJournal of the Endocrine Society·DateNov 19, 2019
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.

Shark proof wetsuit material could help save lives

A new wetsuit material with ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fibers can help reduce injuries from White Shark bites. The study found that the new fabrics were more resistant to puncture, laceration, and bites than standard neoprene.

SourceFlinders University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 18, 2019
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.

Blood test for deadly eye melanoma

Researchers at University of Queensland have discovered markers in blood that differentiate benign moles from melanoma, as well as detect cancer spread to other areas. The blood test may monitor very early signs of the disease, allowing for better screening of patients with eye naevi.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalTranslational Vision Science & Technology·DateNov 14, 2019

After decades of little progress, researchers may be catching up to sepsis

Biomedical researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center have developed a new rapid blood assay called PERSEVERE to detect and stratify sepsis. The test accurately predicts patient risk of death from sepsis, enabling early medical interventions with greater precision.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 13, 2019

Cholesterol, fat profiles at birth linked to psychological health at age 5

A study of 1,369 children found that high levels of good cholesterol and bad fats at birth can predict social and emotional development issues at age 5. Children with high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low triglycerides showed improved psychological ratings from teachers.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateNov 13, 2019
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.

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.

High levels of two hormones in the blood raise prostate cancer risk

A large study of over 200,000 men found that high levels of 'free' testosterone and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) are associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer. The research suggests that these hormones could be modified to reduce prostate cancer risk, taking us a step closer to strategies for prevention.

SourceNational Cancer Research Institute·DateOct 31, 2019

Are we 'brainwashed' during sleep?

Researchers at Boston University have made the first-ever images of cerebrospinal fluid washing in and out of the brain during sleep. The study shows that CSF pulses in rhythmic waves, closely tied to brain wave activity and blood flow, which could provide insights into age-related impairments and neurological disorders.

SourceBoston University·JournalScience·DateOct 31, 2019

Vampire bats give a little help to their 'friends'

Researchers observed vampire bats developing strong social bonds during captivity that persisted in the wild, suggesting shared history plays a role in maintaining relationships. The study used pioneering technology to track bat interactions and found test bats had stronger bonds with each other than control bats.

SourceOhio State University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 31, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Birds do not habituate to traffic noise

Researchers found that birds in constant traffic noise had lower levels of corticosterone in their blood compared to quiet environments. This suppression may protect against negative effects of chronic stress on the immune system. Chicks from noisy parents were also smaller but caught up after leaving the nest.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalConservation Biology·DateOct 25, 2019