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Cancer 'signature' first step toward blood test for patients

Researchers at Walter and Eliza Hall Institute have identified a unique molecular signature in the blood that could detect aggressive lung cancer and predict response to immunotherapy, offering new hope for patients with limited treatment options.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMar 8, 2018

Producing handy gels from a protein found in human blood

Scientists at Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg create albumin-based gels, which could be used to produce drug-delivery implants. The gels' structure and properties were altered by modifying solution pH and temperature conditions.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalBiomaterials Science·DateMar 5, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

ACP recommends less intensive blood sugar control for type 2 diabetes

The American College of Physicians (ACP) recommends less intensive blood sugar control targets for most patients with type 2 diabetes, aiming for an A1C range of 7-8% rather than 6.5-7%. This approach prioritizes symptom management over intensive treatment to balance benefits and harms.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 5, 2018

Disappearing act

Researchers found the Asian tiger mosquito vanished from Palmyra Atoll following rat eradication, as humans became the sole host for mosquitoes to feed on. The study highlights a potential new approach to combatting mosquito-borne diseases by eradicating key hosts.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalBiology Letters·DateFeb 28, 2018
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.

Implantable machines measure heart function

Researchers developed a method to obtain critical information about cardiac function using machines that help failing hearts circulate blood. The new approach may pave the way to self-contained mechanical circulatory support systems for patients suffering from cardiogenic shock after a heart attack.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 28, 2018

3-D simulations reveal synergistic mechanisms of the human heart

A new study introduces a holistic 3D numerical simulation model of the human heart, taking into account the mutual interaction between blood flow and individual components. The model reveals complex effects of heart strings on the mitral valve, shedding light on potential strategies for preventing cardiac problems.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateFeb 28, 2018

Are varicose veins associated with increased risk of blood clot?

Researchers found a potential link between varicose veins and deep venous thrombosis, but more research is needed to confirm the association. The study also suggests that varicose veins may be associated with an increased risk of peripheral artery disease and pulmonary embolism.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 27, 2018

Short-term use of IV devices is common -- and risky -- study shows

A new study reveals that nearly one in four PICC placements are made for less than five days, resulting in complications such as blocked lines, infections, blood clots, and serious kidney problems. This raises concerns about the risks associated with short-term IV device use.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Hospital Medicine·DateFeb 23, 2018

Turn off the telly and get moving

A recent study published in the Journal of Thrombosis and Thrombolysis found that prolonged TV viewing increases the risk of venous thromboembolism, a potentially fatal condition. The research, which analyzed data from over 15,000 Americans, suggests that even regular exercise is not enough to offset the risks of sedentary behavior.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Thrombosis and Thrombolysis·DateFeb 21, 2018
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.

You are what you eat: Diet-specific adaptations in vampire bats

The vampire bat's unique blood-based diet requires specific genetic and microbial adaptations, including enhanced iron assimilation and immunity, to tackle nutritional and non-nutritional challenges posed by blood meals. The findings suggest that the bats' microbiome plays a crucial role in their defense against viral infections.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateFeb 19, 2018

Blood thinners may raise stroke risk in over-65s with kidney disease

A recent study has found that people over 65 with chronic kidney disease and atrial fibrillation are at increased risk of stroke when taking blood thinners. The researchers estimate that half a million UK adults fall into this category, highlighting the need for cautious prescribing practices.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe BMJ·DateFeb 14, 2018
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.

Ketone drink could help diabetics by lowering blood sugar

A ketone ester supplement has been shown to lower blood sugar levels in healthy individuals by reducing spikes in sugar consumption. The study used a single drink containing 75 grams of sugar and found that the ketone drink reduced the blood sugar spike compared to a placebo.

SourceThe Physiological Society·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateFeb 13, 2018
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.

Blood sodium levels may affect cognition in older adults

A new study found that lower sodium levels in the blood, known as hyponatremia, are related to declines in cognitive function with advancing age. Slightly lower serum sodium levels were associated with increased risk of cognitive impairment and decline over time, while high serum sodium was also linked to cognitive decline.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateFeb 8, 2018

Eye could provide 'window to the brain' after stroke

A study published in Neurology suggests that strokes can compromise the blood-ocular barrier, causing gadolinium to leak into the eye. This phenomenon could potentially provide valuable information about stroke severity and guide treatment.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 7, 2018

A hole in the heart increases post-surgical risk of stroke

A study published in JAMA found that patients with a patent foramen ovale (PFO) are at increased risk of stroke after non-cardiac surgery. The researchers analyzed data from over 150,000 patients and found that approximately 3.2% of those with a PFO experienced a stroke within 30 days, compared to 0.5% without one.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 6, 2018

Migraine linked to increased risk of cardiovascular problems

Research suggests that migraine is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases in both men and women. The study found a positive association between migraine and heart attack, stroke, blood clots, and irregular heart rate, particularly among women.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJan 31, 2018
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.

Blood clot in lungs rare in patients at emergency department after fainting

A recent study found that blood clots in the lungs are extremely rare in patients who experience fainting and visit the emergency department. The researchers analyzed data from over 1.6 million adults across four countries, revealing a surprisingly low frequency of pulmonary embolism among those with syncope.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 29, 2018
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.

Lifesaving microbubbles

Researchers developed stable, self-disrupting microbubbles to carry oxygen in the blood, reducing the risk of embolism. The microbubbles were shown to increase survival rates in rodents with cardiac arrest, providing a potential lifesaving treatment.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 23, 2018

Microbiome predicts blood infections in pediatric cancer patients

A study found that pediatric cancer patients' microbiome diversity can predict the risk of developing blood infections, suggesting a link between gut health and bloodstream infections. The researchers argue that prevention and treatment strategies may depend on the source of infection, rather than relying solely on central line hygiene.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 22, 2018

Developing the VTX-1 liquid biopsy system: Fast and label-free enrichment of circulating tumor cells

The VTX-1 Liquid Biopsy System is a commercial, automated instrument that isolates clinically relevant CTC populations directly from whole blood. It achieves high recovery rates of spiked breast and lung cancer cell lines, with purities as low as <100 white blood cells per mL of processed blood.

SourceSLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)·JournalSLAS TECHNOLOGY·DateJan 22, 2018
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 begin isolating blood-feeding and non-biting genes in mosquitoes

Scientists at the University of Birmingham and other institutions have identified 902 genes related to blood feeding and 478 genes linked to non-blood feeding in the mosquito Wyeomyia smithii. The goal is to isolate universal non-biting genes that could be manipulated to control vector-borne diseases.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 18, 2018

New blood test for diagnosing heart attacks: A 'big deal,' with caveats

A new high-sensitivity troponin (hsTn) assay can measure lower concentrations of troponin, allowing for earlier diagnosis of heart attacks. The test has shown a significant reduction in wait times for emergency department patients, as well as improved patient satisfaction and safety.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateJan 15, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Population-specific deep biomarkers of aging

A novel deep-learning based hematological human aging clock predicts the biological age of individual patients with high accuracy. The model outperforms chronological age in predicting all-cause mortality, highlighting population-specific patterns of aging.

SourceInSilico Medicine·JournalJournal of Gerontology·DateJan 11, 2018

Two simple tests could help to pinpoint cause of stroke

Researchers developed a new approach to detecting the cause of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), the deadliest form of stroke. Combining a blood test with a brain scan can accurately spot cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA), a condition linked to ICH and increased risk of further strokes and dementia.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateJan 10, 2018

New app motivates type 2 diabetes patients to be more active

A new app developed by researchers at University of Utah Health aims to motivate type 2 diabetes patients to increase physical activity. The interactive simulation tool helps patients understand the impact of exercise on blood sugar levels, leading to increased motivation and plans for more exercise.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateJan 10, 2018

Proper exercise can reverse damage from heart aging

A new study found that exercising four to five times a week can improve maximum oxygen intake during exercise by 18% and elasticity of the left ventricular muscle of the heart by over 25%. The research suggests that beginning exercise in late middle age can help reverse damage to sedentary hearts.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCirculation·DateJan 8, 2018
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.

High doses of vitamin D rapidly reduce arterial stiffness

A study found that high doses of vitamin D significantly reduced arterial stiffness in a population with vitamin deficiency. The results suggest that vitamin D supplementation can be an effective treatment for improving cardiovascular health.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 2, 2018

Exposure study to assess people and water near Colorado Springs

Researchers in Colorado study 200 people affected by AFFF contamination, collecting data on biological markers and health indicators to assess biopersistence and potential health impacts of PFASs. The study aims to provide a better understanding of the effects of long-term exposure to these chemicals.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·DateDec 21, 2017
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.

Knockout mice help find gene for bad breath

Researchers discovered a genetic link between sulfur compounds and chronic bad breath in humans and genetically modified mice. The study found that people with the condition had mutations in the SELENBP1 gene and high levels of odor-causing chemicals in their blood, mirroring findings in mice with the same mutation.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 19, 2017
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.

Flower or flesh? Genetics explain mosquito preference

Researchers have identified genetic differences between mosquitoes that prefer plants and those that consume blood. The study suggests that the shift from blood to plant-based diet may be driven by reduced risks of predation and stress associated with consuming blood meals.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2017

Researchers begin isolating blood-feeding and non-biting genes in mosquitoes

Scientists at the University of Oregon have isolated blood-feeding and non-biting genes in mosquitoes, a breakthrough that could lead to female mosquitoes that no longer bite and spread diseases. The goal is to identify universal non-biting genes across multiple disease vectors.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2017

Monkeys infected by mosquito bites further Zika virus research

Researchers infect rhesus macaques with Zika virus through mosquito bites, revealing similar infection patterns to human cases. The study helps understand Zika transmission routes and may aid in prevention and severity of disease.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 13, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Spinal tap needle type impacts the risk of complications

A recent study published in The Lancet found that the use of pencil-point atraumatic needles during lumbar punctures significantly reduces the occurrence of headaches and other complications. The research team analyzed data from over 30,000 patients across 29 countries, showing a more than 50% reduction in headaches and readmissions.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 6, 2017

Blood flow altered in brains of preterm newborns vs. full-term infants

A study found that cerebral blood flow is altered in preterm newborns' brains, with key regions such as the insula and anterior cingulate cortex receiving decreased blood supply. This alteration may serve as an early warning sign of disturbed brain maturation.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateDec 4, 2017
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.

Understanding a therapeutic paradox for treating thrombo-vascular complications in kidney disease

A new therapeutic paradox targets thrombo-vascular complications in kidney disease by boosting a regulatory protein called STUB1, which interacts with tissue factor to trigger clotting. This approach may offer an alternative to standard heparin treatment while maintaining a balance between pro-clotting and anticoagulant factors.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 28, 2017

Removing chemical used to make Teflon-like coatings has led to fewer low birth weights and less brain damage

A new NYU report reveals that the phase-out of Teflon-like coatings, which contain PFOA, has led to a significant decrease in low-birth weight babies and related brain damage. The study estimates that this shift has saved over $13 billion in healthcare costs and improved educational prospects for thousands of children.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalInternational Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health·DateNov 27, 2017
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 'half-hearted' solution to one-sided heart failure

Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital have developed a soft robotic system that can provide isolated support to the right or left ventricle, addressing one-sided heart failure. The system combines rigid bracing with soft robotic actuators to help diseased heart chambers pump blood effectively.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalScience Robotics·DateNov 22, 2017

Sleeve gastrectomy, common weight-loss surgery, lowers women's tolerance to alcohol

A study found that women who underwent sleeve gastrectomy may need to limit their alcohol consumption due to faster absorption rates. The surgery speeds up the transfer of alcohol into the bloodstream, leading to higher blood alcohol levels and increased risk of binge drinking and associated health issues.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalSurgery for Obesity and Related Diseases·DateNov 20, 2017

First transcatheter implant for diastolic heart failure successful

A new transcatheter implant has been shown to be safe and effective in treating diastolic heart failure by reducing blood backup in the lungs. The device, a dime-size interatrial shunt, diverted blood flow from high-pressure chambers to low-pressure ones, improving pulmonary capillary wedge pressure readings.

SourceMediaSource·JournalCirculation·DateNov 15, 2017
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.

Aging tests yield varying results

Researchers compared 11 measures of aging, including blood and chromosome tests, and found that none consistently predicted physical or cognitive changes. Telomere length and epigenetic clocks showed some promise but were less clearly linked to physiological outcomes.

SourceDuke University·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateNov 15, 2017