Add BrightSurf on Google Email

$1.4 million grant to fund LSU health research pipeline

The National Institute of General Medical Sciences awards LSU Health a $1.4 million grant to prepare individuals from underrepresented backgrounds for PhDs in biomedical sciences. The program aims to enhance the diversity of the biomedical research workforce and provide hands-on exposure to medical research.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·DateSep 26, 2017

Amount of water in stem cells can determine its fate as fat or bone

Researchers found that altering stem cell volume changes its internal dynamics and influences the cell's fate, with removing water making it stiff pre-bone cells and adding water forming soft pre-fat cells. This study adds a new tool to understanding stem cell biology for regenerative medicine.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 26, 2017

Goodbye, login. Hello, heart scan

A University at Buffalo-led team has developed a non-contact, remote biometric tool using the dimensions of your heart as an identifier. The system, which was three years in the making, continually monitors a user's heart to ensure only authorized individuals can access their computer.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateSep 25, 2017
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.

Multi-gene test predicts Alzheimer's better than APOE E4 alone

A new polygenic hazard score test combines 31 genetic variants and APOE E4 to predict Alzheimer's risk in cognitively normal older adults, outperforming traditional APOE E4 testing. The test identifies high-risk individuals with early cognitive decline and higher amyloid plaque levels.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateSep 22, 2017

Managing negative emotions can help pregnant smokers quit

A new study by researchers at the University at Buffalo found that pregnant smokers who learn to manage their negative emotions are more likely to quit. The study showed that an emotion regulation treatment program significantly improved quitting rates among these women.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateSep 19, 2017

HHMI selects 15 Hanna Gray Fellows to support diversity in science

The HHMI Hanna Gray Fellows Program supports 15 early career scientists from underrepresented groups with up to $1.4 million in funding over eight years. Fellows will receive mentoring and active involvement within the HHMI community, aiming to drive real change in academia.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·DateSep 19, 2017

Relationship found between HIV risk and individual and community level educational status

A new study found a significant association between individual and community level educational status and transactional sex behavior, which is an HIV risk factor. The researchers suggest that undereducated neighborhoods may be more prone to informal economies, leading residents to engage in transactional sex.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalJournal of Urban Health·DateSep 18, 2017
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.

Study compares PhD programs in different countries

A new study compares PhD programs in different countries, highlighting both similarities and differences. The analysis found considerable overlap in aims and content, but notable variations in program structure, mentoring, and thesis assessment.

SourceWiley·JournalFEBS Open Bio·DateSep 18, 2017

Ending DACA could have dire public health consequences

If DACA expires, the health care profession will face a serious challenge as many former beneficiaries experience adverse effects on mental health and psychological well-being. Health care organizations must proactively reach out to undocumented immigrants to reassure them of continued access to quality health care.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 14, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Suicide attempts on the rise in US, finds study

A study by Columbia University Medical Center found that US suicide attempts have increased, especially among younger, disadvantaged adults with mental health issues. The study also revealed significant risk factors for attempted and completed suicides, emphasizing the need for targeted prevention efforts.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateSep 13, 2017

FDA-approved drug may block resistance to anti-angiogenesis therapy

Researchers identified a potential strategy to improve anti-angiogenesis therapy efficacy by targeting an immunosuppressive pathway in colorectal cancer. Blocking the CXCR4/CXCL12 pathway with an FDA-approved drug, AMD3100, enhanced treatment effects and alleviated immune suppression.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 13, 2017

Body's own defense against ALS actually drives disease progression at later stages

Researchers discovered that autophagy, a cellular 'clean-up process', initially slows ALS disease progression but later accelerates its deadly spread through the spinal cord. The study provides new insights into the complex mechanisms of ALS and lays the groundwork for therapies that could eventually prevent its onset.

SourceThe Zuckerman Institute at Columbia University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 11, 2017

Improving cervical cancer screening rates for transgender men

A new study published in LGBT Health suggests that alternative cervical cancer screening methods, such as HPV self-sampling, can increase screening rates among transgender men. The research found that over half of participants preferred HPV self-sampling and had not received a Pap smear within the previous three years.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalLGBT Health·DateSep 8, 2017

Bariatric surgery associated with semen abnormalities and reduced fertility in men

A meta-analysis of studies found frequent sperm aberrations and lower fertility rates among men after undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass procedures. Researchers identified elevated estrogen hormone levels and deficient vitamin D as potential factors contributing to semen abnormalities and reduced fertility.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBariatric Nursing and Surgical Patient Care·DateSep 8, 2017
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.

Children exposed to chemicals in 9/11 'dust' show early signs of risk of heart disease

Children who lived near the World Trade Center on 9/11 are showing early signs of increased risk for future heart disease due to exposure to toxic chemicals. Blood tests revealed elevated levels of artery-hardening fats in their blood, linked to higher blood levels of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs).

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalEnvironment International·DateSep 7, 2017

How do close relationships lead to longer life?

Research highlights benefits of social connections on physical and mental health, with decreased risk of mortality associated. The special issue emphasizes the need to integrate social relationships into public health priorities.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateSep 7, 2017

New app replaces ultrasound with smartphone camera to measure heart health

A new app has been developed that can noninvasively provide detailed information about heart health using a smartphone camera. The app measures pressure waveforms of blood flow through the cardiovascular system and has been shown to be as accurate as echocardiography in estimating left ventricular ejection fraction.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Critical Care Medicine·DateSep 5, 2017
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.

Immune system changes during pregnancy are precisely timed

Scientists at Stanford University School of Medicine characterized the immune system changes during pregnancy and found a precise timing pattern. The study used mass cytometry to analyze blood samples from 18 women with full-term pregnancies and validated the findings in an additional group of 10 women.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalScience Immunology·DateSep 1, 2017

New findings may help protect the kidney health of individuals with obesity

Researchers discovered that a particular receptor in kidney cells plays a crucial role in obesity-induced kidney damage. Targeting this receptor or its associated signaling pathway may help protect the kidneys of individuals with obesity from structural and functional changes, thereby reducing the risk of chronic kidney disease.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 31, 2017

Shedding consistent pounds each week linked to long-term weight loss

A study of 183 participants found that those who lost a consistent number of pounds each week had better weight loss outcomes than those with high weight variability. This suggests that developing stable behaviors related to food intake and weight loss is crucial for maintaining changes in the long term.

SourceDrexel University·JournalObesity·DateAug 28, 2017

SNMMI 2017-2019 Wagner-Torizuka Fellowship recipients announced

The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNMMI) has announced the recipients of the 2017-2019 Wagner-Torizuka Fellowship. The two-year fellowship provides extensive training and experience in nuclear medicine and molecular imaging for Japanese physicians in the early stages of their careers. This year's fellows are Sho Mo...

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·DateAug 24, 2017
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.

Chemicals from gut bacteria maintain vitality in aging animals

Research finds that indoles produced by intestinal bacteria enhance mobility, resistance to stress, and reproductive span in worms, flies, and mice. Indoles may help maintain the intestinal barrier and limit systemic inflammatory effects, suggesting a potential therapeutic avenue for improving healthspan.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2017

Research reveals potential target for alcohol liver disease

A new study has identified fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) as a potential target for treating alcoholic liver disease. The research found that FGF21 levels increase in the blood after alcohol consumption, providing protection against liver damage.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalMolecular Metabolism·DateAug 21, 2017

Smokers 20 percent more likely to quit when cigarettes cost $1 more

A Drexel University study found that older smokers are 20% more likely to quit when cigarette prices increase by $1. The study also showed a 3% overall reduction in smoking risk and a 7% reduction in risk for heavy smokers. Raising cigarette prices appears to be an effective strategy for encouraging smoking cessation across all ages.

SourceDrexel University·JournalEpidemiology·DateAug 18, 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.

Daily e-cigarette users had highest rates of quitting smoking

Daily e-cigarette use was found to be the strongest predictor of smoking cessation among established smokers. Over half of daily e-cigarette users had quit smoking in the past five years, compared to just 28% of those who never tried e-cigarettes.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAddictive Behaviors·DateAug 16, 2017

BU researcher receives AHA grant to improve cardiovascular treatments

Kolachalama's research aims to improve cardiovascular treatments by developing models for smarter artery care and improving drug-coated angioplasty balloons. The $231,000 Scientist Development grant will support his three-year study on the mechanisms of drug-coated balloon therapy.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateAug 16, 2017
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.

Atrial fibrillation risk rises with decreasing kidney function

The study found that individuals with kidney disease have a higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation. The risk increased step-wise with decreasing kidney function, and the link held even after accounting for other factors such as cardiovascular health.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 10, 2017

Insight into learning via 'friend of fragile X' gene

Researchers identify FMR1 and ZC3H14 as friend genes, regulating messenger RNA in neurons, affecting learning and memory. Mutant flies and mice display impaired working memory and altered brain development.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 9, 2017

Hormone shows promise as cognition enhancer

A study by UC San Francisco scientists found that administering klotho to young, aging or impaired mice rapidly improves their cognitive and physical performance. The treatment also showed benefits for aged mice and those with Parkinson's disease-like symptoms, suggesting a potential therapeutic application.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 8, 2017

New mindfulness method helps coaches, athletes score

A new mindfulness program can help coaches and athletes at all levels develop a mental edge and improve their performance. The six-session program, developed by psychologists, combines education, discussion, and experiential components to increase mental readiness.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·DateAug 4, 2017
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.

Building bridges within the cell -- using light

Scientists have created a method to build bridges between organelles in living cells, allowing for controlled manipulation of communication between subcellular compartments. This breakthrough could lead to breakthroughs in understanding cell function and developing new treatments for diseases.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalChemical Science·DateAug 1, 2017

New imaging tracer allows early assessment of abdominal aortic aneurysm risk

Researchers developed a novel imaging tracer that allows for early assessment of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) risk. The study shows high sensitivity and specificity in detecting vessel wall biology, suggesting a promising tool for AAA risk stratification.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateAug 1, 2017
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.

Dinosaur-era plant found alive in North America for first time

A team of scientists from Drexel University has discovered a dinosaur-era plant, Lychnothamnus barbatus, alive in North America for the first time. The species was previously thought to be extinct and is now found in lakes across Wisconsin and Minnesota.

SourceDrexel University·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateJul 31, 2017

Negative birth outcomes linked to air pollution exposure early in pregnancy, study finds

Exposure to air pollution during the first two trimesters of pregnancy has been shown to increase risk for preterm birth and low birth weight. The study's findings also suggest that exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) can lead to decreased body length, placental weight, and anogenital distance.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateJul 27, 2017
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.

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.

Lorenz Studer awarded the 2017 Ogawa-Yamanaka Stem Cell Prize

Lorenz Studer, a renowned stem cell biologist, has been awarded the prestigious Ogawa-Yamanaka Stem Cell Prize for his groundbreaking research on cellular reprogramming and human induced pluripotent stem cells. His work has advanced the therapeutic potential of stem cell-based therapies in Parkinson's disease.

SourceGladstone Institutes·DateJul 20, 2017

Study provides insights on preeclampsia

Researchers have developed a method to quickly diagnose preeclampsia, which affects 5% of pregnancies and is linked to elevated fetal hemoglobin levels. The findings may lead to better diagnostics and treatments for affected women.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJul 20, 2017

Patients may be at risk after discharge from the ER with acute kidney injury

A new study reveals that patients discharged home from the emergency department with acute kidney injury (AKI) are at an increased risk of dying within 30 days. Patients with moderate-to-severe AKI have a higher risk of death, emphasizing the need for close follow-up and repeat kidney function testing.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJul 20, 2017
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.

AOSSM presents prestigious research awards and grants during annual meeting

The American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM) announces its annual meeting, featuring the presentation of research awards and grants totaling over $300,000. The grants include the Steven P. Arnoczky Young Investigator Grant, Sandy Kirkley Grant, AOSSM/Sanofi Osteoarthritis Grant, Fellow Research Award in Basic Science, F...

SourceAmerican Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine·DateJul 19, 2017

In baby's dirty diapers, the clues to baby's brain development

Research from the UNC School of Medicine found an association between certain microbial communities and higher levels of cognitive development. Infants with high levels of Bacteroides had better cognitive scores, while those with diverse gut microbiomes performed worse.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJul 17, 2017

Under stress, brains of bulimics respond differently to food

Research suggests that women with bulimia nervosa use food as an escape from negative thoughts and self-criticism, as indicated by decreased blood flow in the brain's self-reflection region. The study found increased stress reduction and increased food cravings after consuming high-fat/high-sugar foods.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Abnormal Psychology·DateJul 10, 2017
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.