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Berkeley Lab science snapshots

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have made significant breakthroughs in developing a highly effective COVID-19 antibody therapy and an efficient thermoelectric system that can convert waste heat to electricity. The new antibody, S309, has been shown to neutralize all known SARS-CoV-2 strains and may be more difficult for new mutants to escape.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateAug 16, 2021

To avoid severe COVID-19 outcomes, people with asthma should stay on top of the condition with control medication during the pandemic

Researchers found individuals with well-controlled asthma have significantly lower odds of hospitalization and ICU admission compared to those with uncontrolled asthma. Asthma patients using their medications showed a decrease in worsened COVID-19 outcomes.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalThe Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology In Practice·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 10, 2021
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.

Breathe easy: New research to improve inhaler effectiveness

Researchers have modelled how drugs are delivered to the respiratory tract via an inhaler to better treat lung diseases. Finer drug particles of around one micron are better able to travel further into the lungs.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalPhysics of Fluids·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 10, 2021

New in Ethics & Human Research, July-August 2021

The article considers the ethical issues surrounding enrolling children with neurodevelopmental conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder and fragile X syndrome, in clinical trials. Parents may face difficult decisions about whether to enroll their children due to concerns about potential loss of positive aspects of their condition.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalIRB Ethics and Human Research·TypeContent analysis·DateAug 9, 2021

Women underrepresented in CV clinical trials despite inclusivity requirements

Despite guidelines and legal requirements, women remain underrepresented in cardiovascular clinical trials, limiting treatment data on cardiovascular disease. Research shows that women respond differently to drugs than men, highlighting the need for sex-specific data in optimal care.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateAug 9, 2021

Study identifies link between sedative and PTSS in children

A four-year cohort study identified a significant link between midazolam exposure and elevated posttraumatic stress symptoms in children. Symptoms were found to be persistent for up to 12 months, highlighting the need for early intervention and psychosocial support.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalAustralian Critical Care·DateAug 8, 2021
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.

Wearable technology can help in at-home assessment of myoclonic jerks

A new study developed a wearable technology-based method to assess myoclonus symptoms in the home environment. The method, which measures electrical neuromuscular function and movement, correlates well with assessments performed by experienced physicians.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalClinical Neurophysiology·DateAug 5, 2021

Retinoblastoma resource: Researchers create more accurate research model

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have developed a more accurate laboratory model for studying retinoblastoma, a rare pediatric eye cancer. The models closely mimic the biology of patient tumors and provide an important resource for studying the earliest stages of the disease as well as screening new therapies.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 5, 2021

The future of medicine is nearer thanks to researchers’ invention

A new process for making RNA has been developed by researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, yielding purer and more abundant RNA at a fraction of the cost. This breakthrough removes the largest stumbling block on the path to next-generation RNA therapeutic drugs.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 5, 2021

A more complete molecular picture of lung squamous cell carcinoma comes into view

A comprehensive molecular map of lung squamous cell carcinoma has identified potential new drug targets, including the gene NSD3, and highlighted immune regulation pathways that could help cancer evade immunotherapies. The study's findings have also revealed metabolic dysregulation and crosstalk between different cellular processes.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalCell·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 5, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cancer treatments didn’t falter in Australia during 2020 COVID-19 lockdowns

A big data study from UNSW Sydney found that Australian cancer patients kept up their pharmaceutical treatments during last year's COVID-19 lockdowns. The researchers attribute the good news to relatively low rates of COVID-19 infections in Australia, which minimally impacted cancer treatment patterns.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Western Pacific·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 3, 2021

International project provides definitive data on how key cancer drugs work

Researchers analyzed patient specimens and clinical trial data from thousands of patients to assess the importance of immune cell molecules called Fc gamma receptors (FCGRs) in the therapeutic efficacy of two antibody drugs. High levels of FCGR2B on tumor cells were found to prevent rituximab efficacy, while obinutuzumab was not impact...

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalBlood Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 2, 2021

Rethinking remdesivir

Researchers at University of California San Diego School of Medicine modified remdesivir to create an oral version that can be taken earlier in COVID-19 diagnoses. The revised drug proved effective and safe in cell and animal studies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateAug 2, 2021
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.

New insights into uncontrolled inflammation in COVID-19 patients

Researchers discovered how protective molecules like SPM are altered in COVID-19 patients, suggesting that increasing these molecules could limit inflammation and disease severity. The study also found that dexamethasone increased SPM production, improving white blood cell function and reducing inflammation.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalCirculation Research·DateJul 22, 2021

New treatment options for deadliest of cancers

A new way to target the RAS protein, responsible for 20-30% of all known cancers, has been found by a team from the University of Leeds. This breakthrough could lead to greater treatments for more patients, paving the way for hundreds of other disease targets.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 30, 2021

Fertility drugs do not increase breast cancer risk, study finds

A large study of over 1.8 million women has found no link between fertility drugs and an increased risk of breast cancer. The research, published in Fertility and Sterility journal, provides reassurance to women seeking fertility treatments.

SourceKing's College London·JournalFertility and Sterility·DateJun 21, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

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.

Nintendo® wii may help improve balance in children with cerebral palsy

Research suggests that Nintendo Wii therapy can significantly improve balance in children with cerebral palsy, even when combined with conventional physical therapy. The analysis found medium to large effects of the therapy on functional balance and dynamic balance, respectively.

SourceWiley·JournalDevelopmental Medicine & Child Neurology·DateJun 9, 2021

Study suggests unmedicated, untreated brain illness is likely in mass shooters

A new study analyzing medical evidence on domestic mass shooters in the US finds that a majority of perpetrators have psychiatric disorders without treatment, increasing risk of violence. The researchers identified signs and symptoms of brain illness in 32 out of 35 perpetrators, with most having schizophrenia or other diagnoses.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychopharmacology·DateJun 9, 2021
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.

Protecting the intellectual abilities of people at risk for psychosis

Researchers found that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors can reduce deterioration of intellectual abilities in individuals with a microdeletion of chromosome 22. The study suggests a potential neuroprotective effect and opens up new research possibilities.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateJun 1, 2021
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.

New research may revolutionise cataract treatment

A breakthrough study by Anglia Ruskin University experts suggests that cataract treatment could shift from surgery to drug therapy, offering exciting implications for public health. The research found the role of aquaporin proteins in lens development and highlights the potential for nanotechnologies to support drug-based therapies.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·DateMay 19, 2021

Oncotarget: Phase 1 study of Z-Endoxifen in patients with solid tumors

A Phase 1 study of Z-endoxifen in patients with solid tumors reported partial responses in three patients and prolonged stable disease in eight. The study suggests that Z-endoxifen can benefit patients who have progressed on tamoxifen treatment, particularly those with desmoid tumors.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateMay 17, 2021
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.

Alcohol problems severely undertreated

A recent study found that only 6% of people with alcohol use disorder receive treatment, despite most having access to healthcare. The researchers suggest that primary care doctors may not feel comfortable addressing drinking issues due to lack of training, leading to a gap in treatment.

SourceWashU Medicine·DateMay 17, 2021

Researchers develop first-in-class inhibitors against key leukemia protein

A team of researchers has developed first-in-class small molecules to inhibit the SET domain of the ASH1L protein, preventing critical molecular interactions in leukemia development. The lead compound, AS-99, successfully reduced leukemia progression in mouse models.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 14, 2021
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.

Researchers find a way to mend a broken heart

A Monash University study has discovered a way to prevent and reverse the damage caused by broken-heart syndrome, also known as Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. The breakthrough uses Suberanilohydroxamic acid to target genes and improve cardiac health.

SourceMonash University·JournalSignal Transduction and Targeted Therapy·DateApr 19, 2021

Novel drug regenerates erectile nerves damaged by prostate surgery

Researchers at Einstein College of Medicine developed a topical drug that regenerates and restores function of erectile nerves damaged by radical prostatectomy. The siRNA gel enhanced nerve regeneration and restored nerve function in rat models, restoring erectile function.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalJCI Insight·DateApr 19, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

A new treatment for rare muscular disease

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have developed a new treatment for Pompe disease, a genetic condition that affects 1 in 40,000 people in the US. The treatment has been shown to be safer and more effective than current therapy, improving respiratory muscle function, endurance, and overall quality of life.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateApr 16, 2021

Pumping the 'brain brake' in pediatric anxiety

A new study by UC researchers uses brain imaging to predict treatment outcomes for adolescents with anxiety disorders. The study showed that medication can 'dampen' the overactivity of fear areas in the brain, leading to improved transmission of messages between neurons.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateMar 31, 2021
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.

Insights on operationalizing COVID-19 monoclonal antibody treatment

The UPMC/Pitt team established a largest and most equitable distribution network for COVID-19 monoclonal antibody infusions across Pennsylvania. The treatment reduced likelihood of hospitalization and death in UPMC patients who received it, especially when administered soon after infection.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalOpen Forum Infectious Diseases·DateMar 26, 2021

Oncotarget: Phase 1 study of Z-Endoxifen in patients with solid tumors

A Phase 1 study of Z-endoxifen in patients with solid tumors demonstrated antitumor activity and prolonged stable disease, even in those who had previously responded sub-optimally to tamoxifen. The trial found that 44.4% of patients at certain dose levels achieved partial responses or stable disease.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateMar 25, 2021

Ending tuberculosis is a race against time and drug resistance

The TB burden in Europe is decreasing, with a 19% overall decline from 2015-2019. However, drug resistance remains a major concern, and the COVID-19 pandemic may stall or cause setbacks in the fight against TB. Treatment outcomes are suboptimal, with only 77% of patients successfully completing treatment in 2019.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·DateMar 22, 2021
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.

UC-led research looks at alternative to treat eye diseases

Researchers are developing an ocular drug delivery system based on RNA nanotechnology to deliver therapeutics into the eye without requiring eye injections. This method aims to create a reservoir for medications to treat diseases over time, reducing adverse effects and increasing treatment efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateMar 16, 2021

European Lung Cancer Virtual Congress 2021

The European Lung Cancer Virtual Congress 2021 will showcase new perspectives in treating small cell lung cancer and mesothelioma, as well as management options for non-small cell lung cancer. More than 200 studies will be presented, with a focus on immunotherapy and lung cancer prevention.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·DateMar 12, 2021

Clinical trial shows alcohol use disorder recovery can start without sobriety

A randomized clinical trial found that participants experiencing homelessness and alcohol use disorder showed significant improvements in reducing drinking and improving health through behavioral harm reduction treatment. The study suggests that traditional abstinence-based treatment may not be effective for this population.

SourceWashington State University·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateMar 10, 2021

NIH scientists use human cerebral organoid to test drug for deadly brain disease

Researchers from NIH's National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases have developed a human cerebral organoid model to screen drugs for potential treatment of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, a fatal neurodegenerative brain disease. The model has shown promise in reducing disease indicators by 10-fold without causing tissue death.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 9, 2021
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.

With unfair police treatment, the tragedy is not limited to the incident itself

New research suggests that unfair police treatment is associated with detrimental outcomes such as depression, suicidal thoughts, drug use, and loss of self-efficacy. The study used a nationally representative sample of over 12,000 participants and found significant disparities in the consequences faced by white and Black people.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalCriminology·DateMar 5, 2021

Exploring pieces of heart muscle that fail to compact

A new study aims to explore the cause and therapeutic treatment for left ventricular non-compaction cardiomyopathy (LVNC), also known as a 'spongy heart'. The research, led by University of Houston pharmacologist Mingfu Wu, seeks to determine how heart muscle fails to compact and develop medicines to reduce symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateMar 4, 2021

The battle against hard-to-treat fungal infections

Fungal infections are rare but deadly, with limited treatment options due to resistance. Developing new antifungals is challenging due to biological similarities between humans and fungi.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMar 3, 2021

Lung cancer cells have differential signaling responses to KRAS inhibitor treatment

Moffitt researchers found that epithelial and mesenchymal subtypes of lung cancer cells respond differently to KRASG12C inhibitor therapy, with varying levels of sensitivity. The study suggests that targeting alternative signaling pathways, such as HER2 and FGFR1, may enhance treatment efficacy.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateMar 1, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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