A new study from Johns Hopkins Medicine found that the liver plays a vital role in balancing fats and sugars, even when its ability is impaired. The research suggests that other tissues can step in to compensate for the liver's limitations, but if the liver fails, it can lead to a lethal onslaught of fat.
A 40-year study of nearly 45,000 Swedish men found that being overweight in late adolescence significantly increases the risk of developing severe liver disease later in life. The study adjusted for various confounding factors and found a 64% increased risk for overweight men compared to those with low normal weight.
Researchers discovered that stem cells isolated from young mice can accelerate repair of stomach ulcers when transplanted into older mice. Additionally, studies redefined the role of the gut microbiome in inflammatory bowel disease and found potential therapeutic applications for acute alcoholic liver disease using a scavenger compound.
Researchers create new tool to define metabolic differences between individuals, paving the way for precision medicine. By combining genetic and protein data, scientists can better understand how patients respond to medication and tailor treatments accordingly.
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 UCF College of Medicine have identified a tiny liver protein, SVIP, that regulates VLDL secretion when disrupted leads to cardiovascular disease and fatty liver disease. High levels of myristic acid in diet can activate SVIP, causing excess fat buildup in the liver, potentially leading to cancer.
A large-scale proteomic study using SWATH-MS technique reveals specific proteins responsible for fat and energy metabolism in mice. The researchers found that COX7A2L protein plays a crucial role in mitochondrial function and its deficiency can lead to metabolic disorders.
A new approach repairs liver disease by converting fibrosis-causing cells into functional hepatocytes, reducing damage and improving liver function. The technique targets liver fibrosis, a primary driver of liver disease, and may be more efficient than cell transplants.
Researchers have discovered a signature of gut bacteria associated with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), a liver disease with no effective treatment. The findings may lead to a novel diagnosis tool and microbiota-based therapies, enabling better identification of PSC patients and personalized treatment approaches.
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
Research reveals that people with low ALDH2 activity, common in East Asian populations, are more likely to develop non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Even those who don't drink heavily or at all are at risk. Regular γ-GTP level checks are recommended.
Researchers found that epigenetic modifications in the Igfbp2 gene increase susceptibility to obesity and predict fatty liver disease. Young animals with this modification exhibit impaired glucose metabolism and morbid obesity.
Research found that high levels of the protein p62 are strongly associated with cancer recurrence and reduced patient survival in human liver samples. In mice, p62 was required for liver cancer to form. The study suggests p62 could be used as a prognostic marker and potential therapeutic target for liver cancer.
Fatty liver and visceral obesity are key predictors of prediabetes and cardiovascular risk. Insulin secretion failure and resistance also play a significant role in modulating disease risk.
A study led by Amita Sehgal found that a neuropeptide regulates the expression of detoxification genes in both fruitflies and mice, driving feeding behavior and having implications for chronotherapy. The findings suggest that synchrony between brain and peripheral clocks is crucial for maintaining good health.
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.
Scientists at Helmholtz Munich discovered that fasting induces the production of a protein called GADD45β, which reduces fatty acid absorption in the liver and improves sugar metabolism. This finding holds promise for therapeutic intervention in metabolic diseases like type 2 diabetes.
A Mayo Clinic study found that metformin does not limit the action of hormone glucagon, which may mitigate its ability to lower glucose production in the liver. The researchers discovered a compensatory increase of glucagon in prediabetic individuals taking metformin.
Researchers found that lung cancer can rewire the body's clock to control lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity in the liver. This alteration leads to decreased glucose tolerance and changes in lipid metabolism.
Patients with compensated HCV cirrhosis who respond to antiviral therapies have similar survival rates as the general population, according to a new study. The study found that treatment should be given as early as possible to achieve maximum benefit.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Researchers found that curing hepatitis C virus (HCV) could spare approximately 10,500 livers from being transplanted into HCV-infected patients over a twenty-year period. This would also lead to an estimated 7,300 livers being transplanted into liver disease patients without HCV.
A study found that a quality improvement initiative by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services increased the removal of liver transplant candidates from the waiting list. The analysis of nationwide transplant data showed that over 4,300 Americans were delisted between 2007 and 2012 due to deteriorating illness.
Researchers found that high-intensity blue light reduces inflammation and organ damage at the cellular level in mice before surgery. This potential pre-treatment light therapy could improve outcomes in patients undergoing procedures with blood restriction.
Researchers found that transplanting liver cells into an extra-hepatic site, such as the intra-mesentery, can help protect against post-operative liver failure and aid in survival of the remaining liver. The study showed improved overall mortality due to acute liver failure in the transplantation group.
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.
Researchers found that mice flown aboard the space shuttle developed early signs of liver disease, including increased fat storage and changes to genes responsible for breaking down fats. This study has implications for future missions to Mars, highlighting the need for further research on the impact of spaceflight on human physiology.
The partnership will enable pharmaceutical companies to identify compounds most likely to succeed in human clinical trials, shortening the timeline to drug approval. Advanced lipidomic profiling analysis on tissues such as the liver will be made available, enhancing the depth and quality of scientific data.
A new study presents data demonstrating that personalized direct-acting antiviral treatment can eradicate the hepatitis C virus from the body in patients who had previously failed treatment. The study identified effective re-treatment combinations for genotype 1 and 3, achieving SVR12 rates of 90% and 100%, respectively.
A new study finds that generic direct-acting antiviral treatment for Hepatitis C can deliver high sustained virologic response rates comparable to branded treatments, but at a significantly lower price. The results suggest that generic DAAs could support access to treatment in many countries where it is currently unaffordable.
A new study published at The International Liver Congress 2016 found that the diabetes drug sitagliptin was no more effective than placebo in reducing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. However, researchers demonstrated that non-invasive imaging techniques based on MRI were useful for measuring changes in liver fat and fibrosis.
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.
A new study demonstrates that a build-up of fat around the waist can cause more serious complications than obesity in the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Non-obese patients with a large waist circumference are at risk of NAFLD complications, according to the research. The study highlights the need for addition...
A Phase 1 study found that NVR 3-778, a first-in-class HBV capsid assembly inhibitor, is well-tolerated when combined with pegylated interferon. The treatment reduced levels of hepatitis B more than NVR 3-778 alone, with the largest reduction seen in the combination group.
A new study reveals high levels of hepatitis B markers among unvaccinated refugee populations in northern Germany, highlighting a significant public health concern. The research found that nearly one million asylum applications were lodged in Germany last year, with many coming from unstable states where health systems have broken down.
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.
A new study has demonstrated the efficacy of all-oral treatment regimens in adolescents with hepatitis C virus. The study found that 97% of patients achieved sustained virologic response rates after 12 weeks of treatment, suggesting a promising treatment option for this patient group.
A new study presents Norursodeoxycholic acid as a viable treatment option for patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis, a rare condition characterized by inflammation and scarring in the bile ducts. The treatment significantly reduced levels of serum alkaline phosphatase and had similar rates of adverse events compared to placebo.
A pilot study found that a direct-acting antiviral treatment over six weeks can effectively cure acute hepatitis C in patients. The treatment resulted in undetectable HCV levels and sustained virologic response after a 12-week follow-up, with side effects including fatigue.
ABT-493 and ABT-530 achieved 100% sustained virologic response (SVR12) in cirrhotic patients, while non-cirrhotic patients showed a 97% SVR12 rate after eight weeks. This treatment offers hope for genotype 3 patients with heavily scarred livers.
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 new algorithm designed for End-Stage Liver Disease (ESLD) accurately predicted death in 96% of patients and determined which patients would benefit from intensive care unit treatment. The algorithm combines pre-morbid liver function and Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure grade to make predictions.
Scientists have discovered a potential method for battling obesity by stimulating brown fat in genetically predisposed mice, which may help treat metabolic syndrome and its related health issues. The study found that increasing heat production in the fatty tissue improved weight management and glucose control.
Studies demonstrate that tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) is as effective and safer than tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) in treating chronic Hepatitis B, with fewer negative changes in bone and kidney parameters. TAF improves patient safety while sustaining efficacy in patients with chronic Hepatitis B virus infection.
A new study demonstrates that antiviral therapy for immune tolerant Hepatitis B patients prolongs overall survival and reduces the risk of developing liver cancer (HCC) and scarring of the liver (cirrhosis). Nucleos(t)ide analogue treatment significantly lowers HCC and cirrhosis risks.
A new study found a potential link between long-term oral nucleos(t)ide analogue treatment for hepatitis B and an increased risk of colorectal and cervical cancer. Regular screening is recommended to prevent these cancers in patients receiving such treatment. The study analyzed data from 45,299 patients with chronic HBV infection.
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.
A recent study re-affirms the use of interferon alpha as an effective treatment for patients with Hepatitis delta virus, a severe form of viral hepatitis. The research found that 35% of patients who responded to this therapy achieved sustained suppression of the virus and had favorable outcomes.
Researchers found that an investigational injectable treatment, RG-101, combined with direct-acting antivirals resulted in high virologic response rates among patients with genotype 1 and 4. The four-week treatment course showed promise in reducing Hepatitis C treatment time.
A new study from Mayo Clinic found that patients with high and low levels of donor-specific alloantibodies who received simultaneous liver-kidney transplants showed a lower incidence of cellular and antibody-mediated rejection, chronic injury to the kidney, and better overall kidney function compared to those who received a kidney tran...
The World Health Organization (WHO) commended innovative hepatitis testing projects from five countries at The International Liver Congress. These projects showcased new testing models for hepatitis in primary care, community settings, and prisons, highlighting the need to scale up hepatitis testing globally.
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.
A study found that acute exenatide administration enhances glucose uptake and reduces insulin resistance in the liver and adipose tissue of patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. This treatment also improves glucose control in the liver and fatty cells, offering promising benefits for individuals with this condition.
A new triple combination treatment of sofosbuvir/velpatasvir and GS-9857 achieved a high sustained virologic response rate of 99% in patients with HCV genotype 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6. The treatment was generally safe and effective, even in patients who had previously received direct acting antivirals.
A genome-wide association study has identified two genes, PNPLA3 and SLC38A4, that increase the risk of developing severe alcoholic hepatitis in heavy drinkers. The study found that individuals with these genetic variants are more susceptible to developing this serious and life-threatening illness.
A new study reports that nearly 80% of children who undergo liver transplants can be expected to survive for at least 20 years. The study analyzed data from 128 consecutive children who received liver transplants between 1988 and 1993, with a median age of 2.5 years.
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 combination treatment of sofosbuvir, velpatasvir, and GS-9857 demonstrates safety and efficacy in patients with genotype 1 HCV infection. The study achieved high sustained virologic response rates, with 98% of patients responding to the three-drug combination.
A new study found that patients with a prior history of hepatocellular carcinoma and treated with direct-acting antivirals for Hepatitis C have a higher-than-expected early recurrence rate of their liver cancer, with rates exceeding 40% in some subgroups. The recurrences may be due to a weakened immune system following DAA therapy.
A new study suggests that hepatitis C-infected livers can be used for transplants with similar medium- to long-term outcomes as healthy livers. This could reduce the waiting time for liver transplants for people with HCV, with over 15,000 people in the US and 8,500 in Europe currently waiting.
Patients with severe liver disease face increased risk of death when treated with DAAs, according to a new study. The study highlights the need for individualized discussions between healthcare professionals and patients regarding treatment options.
The elbasvir/grazoprevir combination was effective in HCV genotypes 1 and 4 with fewer overall side effects, resulting in an SVR12 of 99.2% compared to 90.5% for sofosbuvir/pegylated interferon. The new treatment demonstrated superior efficacy especially in hard-to-treat patients.
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.
A new study shows that direct-acting antiviral therapy can improve the condition of patients with severe liver damage and hepatitis C, reducing their need for a liver transplant. The treatment improved the outlook for 35% of patients, allowing them to be removed from the transplant list or no longer require a transplant.
A new scoring system can accurately predict a person's risk of death from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the world's most prevalent liver disease. The study found that patients with severe NAFLD had a significantly higher risk of mortality, highlighting the importance of identifying patients at risk.
A new study demonstrates that community-based non-specialist providers can safely and effectively treat Hepatitis C patients. The study found that 285 out of 304 patients achieved SVR12, with no significant difference between providers in achieving this outcome.
A study found that co-administered vaccines against HCV and HIV did not impair the magnitude or breadth of either specific T-cell responses. This approach, known as prime-boost, showed potent T-cell responses in healthy volunteers.
A new study found that coffee supplementation improved several key markers of NAFLD in mice fed a high-fat diet, including reduced cholesterol and fat accumulation. Coffee also raised levels of Zonulin, which lessens gut permeability, a contributor to liver injury.
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 new study found that patients with Hepatitis C virus who took direct-acting antiviral treatments had a 'high rate' of re-developing their illness, including liver cancer. The study suggests that these patients require close monitoring due to the high risk of recurrence.
A new study finds that universal screening for alcohol misuse among hospital admissions can identify patients at greatest risk and provide targeted treatment, reducing the healthcare burden of alcohol-related harm. The UK researchers screened over 53,000 admissions and found that simple screening is achievable and effective in targetin...
Research presented at The International Liver Congress 2016 found that breastfeeding exclusively for six months can reduce the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in adolescence by a third. Pre-pregnancy BMI within the normal range also reduces the risk, by half.
Studies presented at The International Liver Congress 2016 show differing perspectives on direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatment efficacy in patients co-infected with HIV and HCV. While one study found lower SVR12 rates in co-infected patients, another study showed no statistically significant impact of HIV co-infection on DAAs.
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.