Brandon Chase

2 weeks ago | broadinstitute.org | Brandon Chase

Since the 1990s, researchers have found several immune system molecules that act like “brakes” on immune responses, leading to a new class of cancer drugs. One of these “immune checkpoint” molecules, called Tim-3 has recently been linked to late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD), but its role in the brain was unknown until now.

Nov 7, 2024 | thetrek.co | Brandon Chase

The Patagonia R1 lineup has earned legendary status in the outdoor world, renowned for its versatile mid-layers and fleece garments that have been a staple since the 1990s. Many athletes proudly claim their adventures were “Done in R1,” a testament to the lineup’s reliability. Initially designed as a lightweight, breathable fleece for climbers and alpinists, the R1’s ability to balance warmth and moisture management quickly made it popular across various outdoor activities including hiking.

Oct 8, 2024 | thetrek.co | Brandon Chase

When it comes to outdoor gear, few brands command as much respect as Arc’teryx, and the Beta SL jacket is a prime example of their commitment to innovation and performance. Previously known as the Beta Lightweight, this updated version retains many of the same trusted features while integrating a more sustainable design.

Sep 18, 2024 | thetrek.co | Brandon Chase

The backpacking brand that thru-hikers know and love, Hyperlite Mountain Gear (HMG), has recently broken the mold of their tried-and-true lightweight packs with a new, frameless option: the Contour 35. This powerhouse pack is designed to carry exactly what seasoned long-distance backpackers need for safe and efficient travel whether on a thru-hike, a faspacking trip, or a leisurely day trip. I was excited to get my hands on this pack and give it a whirl this summer.

Aug 23, 2024 | medicalxpress.com | Brandon Chase

Paradoxically, previous research has shown that despite its inherent health risks, cigarette smoking is linked with a reduced risk of Parkinson's disease (PD). Until now, however, it was not clear how. New research in lab models indicates that low doses of carbon monoxide—comparable to that experienced by smokers —protected against neurodegeneration and prevented the accumulation of a key PD-associated protein in the brain.