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Study reveals structure of receptor implicated in type 2 diabetes and more

Researchers have determined the structure of human leukotriene B4 receptor 1 (hBLT1), a protein involved in inflammation and disease. The analysis reveals how the receptor recognizes its binding partners and interacts with them, opening up avenues for designing better drugs.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 12, 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.

Neural network detects protein-peptide binding sites to kick-start peptide drug discovery

Researchers have developed a neural network model called BiteNetPp to detect protein-peptide binding sites, enabling the design of peptide-based drugs. The model consistently outperforms existing methods and can analyze a single protein structure in under a second, making it suitable for large-scale studies.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalJournal of Chemical Information and Modeling·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 5, 2021

Model can predict how drug interactions influence antibiotic resistance

A new model using simple changes in microbe growth curves can predict how antibiotic resistance evolves in response to different treatment combinations, doses and sequences. The model helps explain counterintuitive behavior observed in past experiments, such as slowed evolution when combining two antibiotics.

SourceeLife·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 27, 2021

A redundant modular network supports proper brain communication

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine found that a modular network organization is critical for persistent neural activity in the brain. The study revealed that each hemisphere makes its own copy of information and coordinates with the other hemisphere to ensure coherent information during working memory.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCell·DateJul 12, 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.

Repurposed drugs present new strategy for treating COVID-19

A joint research group from KAIST and Institut Pasteur Korea has identified 38 potential repurposed drugs for COVID-19 treatment using a virtual screening strategy. Seven compounds inhibited SARS-CoV-2 replication in human lung cells, showing anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 8, 2021

New approach will help identify drugs that can 'glue' proteins together

Researchers at the University of Birmingham have developed a new screening method to test therapeutic molecules designed to bind proteins together. The method uses mass spectrometry to measure the precise mass of proteins and their 'glue' compounds, identifying the strongest glue to treat diseases.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalChemical Science·DateJul 7, 2021

Deep machine learning completes information about the bioactivity of one million molecules

Researchers have developed a tool to predict the biological activity of any molecule using deep machine learning methods. The system integrates experimental data with AI models to complete incomplete information about bioactivity profiles, enabling the selection of suitable candidates for drug discovery.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 28, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Communication technology, study of collective behavior must be 'crisis discipline'

Researchers urge the study of collective behavior to rise to a 'crisis discipline' due to its impact on global crises like pandemics and climate change. Social media platforms prioritize engagement over accuracy and sustainability, posing significant threats to public health and ecological stability.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 14, 2021

Predisposition to addiction may be genetic

A Rutgers study suggests that individuals with high sensation-seeking traits may be more susceptible to drug addiction due to a genetic predisposition. High-sensation-seeking rats showed stronger motivation for cocaine, making them more prone to developing addictive behavior.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNeuropharmacology·DateJun 9, 2021

New study further advances the treatment of chronic pain

Scientists identified conolidine's interaction with ACKR3/CXCR7, a novel opioid receptor, to increase analgesic activity and block pain relief-dampening effects. A synthetic analogue, RTI-5152-12, was developed to enhance pharmacological properties.

SourceLuxembourg Institute of Health·JournalSignal Transduction and Targeted Therapy·DateJun 3, 2021

Depressive symptoms linked to rapid kidney function decline

A study of 4,763 individuals found that those with frequent depressive symptoms were more likely to experience rapid kidney function decline over a median follow-up period of 4 years. The study suggests that high depressive symptoms may be an important modifiable risk factor for chronic kidney disease.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMay 28, 2021
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.

Video platforms normalize exotic pets

Researchers analyzed YouTube comments on exotic animal videos and found overwhelmingly positive reactions to human-animal interactions. The study highlights concerns about the normalization of exotic pets and the exotic pet trade due to platform portrayals.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 27, 2021

Eliminating bias from healthcare AI critical to improve health equity

The Regenstrief Institute emphasizes the importance of algorithmic performance in healthcare, highlighting the need for systematic surveillance and vigilance to address inherent biases. Studies have shown that debiasing methods can help address disparities represented in data used to develop AI approaches.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 12, 2021

Cells are more resilient to environmental changes than previously thought

A study by Toronto researchers found that Baker's yeast cells employ a consistent network of gene interactions to coordinate growth in response to various environments. The majority of genetic interactions remained present across different conditions, revealing the stability of the cellular genetic program.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalScience·DateMay 6, 2021

Another Martini for better simulations

The Martini forcefield offers fast but accurate coarse-grained simulations for soft matter systems, such as lipid membranes and proteins. The new version has been recalibrated with more reference data, enhancing its accuracy and usability in materials science and biophysics research.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Methods·DateMar 29, 2021
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.

New clues to classic cancer target found in immune cells

Studies found that disrupting interaction between p53 and Mdm2 in tumor cells is less effective than thought, as it can impair immune cell function. New compound APG115 showed promise in boosting T cell activity against cancer, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Immunology·DateMar 25, 2021

Researchers dig deeper into how migrating cells interact in the body

Cells migrating along networks of fibers exhibit different behavior than in a flat environment, with increased speed and altered interactions when encountering other cells or dividing. This study provides new understanding into cellular behavior and its relevance to drug delivery and wound healing.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 25, 2021

Neutrons reveal unpredicted binding between SARS-CoV-2, hepatitis C antiviral drug

Researchers used neutron scattering to investigate interactions between telaprevir and the SARS-CoV-2 main protease, discovering unforeseen changes in electric charges that were not predicted by computer simulations. This finding suggests that assumptions about binding behaviors should be based on individual atom-level observations rat...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateMar 23, 2021

New study shows impact of mask wearing on patient trust and perception of surgeons

A recent study published in JAMA Surgery found that patients have a more difficult time understanding and building trust with their surgeons when they cannot see the surgeon's entire face due to masking requirements. Patients reported improved communication and higher ratings for surgeons who wore clear masks.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateMar 11, 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.

Sensing robot healthcare helpers being developed at SFU

Researchers at Simon Fraser University are developing robots that can measure essential healthcare information, such as physiological signals and oxygen levels. The robots aim to support remote healthcare tasks and may potentially interact with patients, process data, and prescribe medication in the future.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateFeb 26, 2021

Antibody-based COVID-19 treatments work best in concert with immune cells

A new study reveals that antibody effector functions are crucial for effectively treating COVID-19 infections, but dispensable when preventing infection. Researchers found that optimized effector functions can boost the potency of next-generation COVID-19 antibody drugs, while removing them may hinder treatment effectiveness.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell·DateFeb 16, 2021
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.

Tailor-made drugs to treat epilepsy or cardiovascular diseases

Researchers have elucidated the molecular structure of the Y2 receptor, enabling the development of targeted drugs for treating epilepsy and cardiovascular diseases. The study reveals that Y2 receptor blockers bind differently than comparable molecules at the closely related Y1 subtype.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 10, 2021

Sonoporation: Underlying mechanisms and applications in cellular regulation

Sonoporation, a technique combining ultrasound with microbubbles, creates openings in cell membranes, allowing enhanced drug or gene intracellular delivery. Recent advances using contrast agents are expanding applications to gene expression, apoptosis, differentiation, and epigenetic reprogramming.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalBIO Integration·DateFeb 9, 2021

Use of goldenseal may compromise glucose control in diabetics on metformin

A recent study published in Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics found that diabetics taking goldenseal while on metformin may struggle to maintain healthy blood glucose levels. The study showed that goldenseal reduced metformin's concentration by 25% after six days of use, highlighting the risk of unwanted drug interactions.

SourceWashington State University·JournalClinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics·DateFeb 8, 2021
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.

Breast cancer-on-a-chip for testing immunotherapy drugs

Researchers at Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation have developed a breast cancer-on-a-chip system to test immunotherapy drugs. The chip enables high-volume testing of immunotherapeutic drugs against tumor cells, allowing for the rapid screening of potential treatments.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalSmall·DateFeb 2, 2021

Computer model makes strides in search for COVID-19 treatments

A new deep-learning model has identified at least 10 compounds that may hold promise as treatments for COVID-19, including approved drugs like cyclosporine and anidulafungin. The model uses artificial intelligence to predict gene expression values for new chemicals, providing a valuable tool for pharmaceutical and clinical researchers.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateFeb 1, 2021

Neutrons probe molecular behavior of proposed COVID-19 drug candidates

Researchers analyze molecular dynamics of proposed COVID-19 drug candidates to understand their interactions with target proteins in human cells. They found that certain parts of the molecules can move more easily once hydrated, which could influence how efficiently a drug takes on shapes associated with different biological functions.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateFeb 1, 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 simplify the study of gene-environment interactions

A new computational method has been developed to analyze genetic and environmental interactions influencing disease risk, including body mass index and diabetes. The study found that prioritizing a smaller number of genetic variants in the genome improves analysis efficiency.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJan 26, 2021

How LSD boosts sociability in mice

A study found that LSD enhances social behavior in mice by increasing excitatory neurotransmission in the medial prefrontal cortex. The neurobiological mechanisms underlying LSD's prosocial effects are unclear but may be linked to the mTORC1 protein complex.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 25, 2021
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.

BIO Integrationjournal, Volume 1, Issue number 4, publishes

The journal features an original article on microfluidic technology and blood flow research, as well as review articles assessing antimicrobial peptides' potential in cancer therapy. It also discusses the interaction between COVID-19 and metabolic syndrome, and the entry mechanism of nanoparticles into tumors.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalBIO Integration·DateJan 15, 2021

New analysis method for predicting the risks and effects of immunotherapy

Researchers at Uppsala University have developed a new analysis method that can predict the risks and effects of immunotherapy drug Rituximab. The study found differences in how the drug interacts with healthy individuals versus patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia, providing valuable insights into individual responses to treatment.

SourceUppsala University·JournalInternational Immunopharmacology·DateDec 11, 2020
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.

New multicampus consortium to study assembly of coronaviruses

A new consortium will investigate the physical principles underlying coronavirus formation, using a multidisciplinary approach across multiple scales and environments. The research aims to develop drugs that can disrupt viral assembly, with potential applications in synthetic biology and medicine.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateDec 9, 2020

Environmental exposures affect therapeutic drugs

Researchers from the University of Vienna used high-resolution mass spectrometry to analyze environmental toxin interactions with therapeutics. The study found that exposure to substances like BPA and genistein can alter drug efficacy, leading to reduced effectiveness in cancer treatment and other conditions.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalTrends in Pharmacological Sciences·DateDec 1, 2020

Understanding frustration could lead to better drugs

A new study by Rice University scientists has developed atomic resolution protein models that show frustration is necessary for protein function and can lead to better drug specificity. The models allow for the incorporation of co-factors like drug molecules, providing insight into why ligands bind best with specific proteins.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 23, 2020

Depression screening tools in patients with kidney failure

A recent analysis found limited research evaluating depression screening tools in patients with kidney failure. The most extensively studied tool was the Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI-II), but many studies were small and had shortcomings.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateNov 17, 2020

A change of heart -- new drug for HCM reduces heart mass

A new medication, mavacamten, has been shown to reduce heart muscle thickness and improve cardiac structure and function in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The study found significant reductions in heart mass and improvements in blood flow, exercise capacity, and markers of fibrosis.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCirculation·DateNov 16, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Silicone surface mimics topology, wettability of a real human tongue

A team of scientists developed a soft, 3D silicone surface that replicates the topography and wettability of a real human tongue. The biomimetic surface demonstrated similar frictional properties to an actual human tongue, making it suitable for studying mechanical interactions with food, liquids, and medicines.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateNov 11, 2020

'Time machine' offers new pancreatic cancer drug testing approach

Purdue University engineers have developed a microfluidic device that allows scientists to test drugs on multiple tumor cell subtypes, revealing new insights into drug resistance. The technology mimics the behavior of pancreatic cancer cells within a tumor, enabling researchers to identify effective treatment strategies.

SourcePurdue University·JournalLab on a Chip·DateOct 29, 2020
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.

Questionnaire-based tool measures fatigue in patients receiving dialysis

A new patient-reported outcome measure, SONG-HD Fatigue, has been validated to assess fatigue in patients receiving long-term dialysis treatments. The instrument calculates average fatigue over a period of 1 week, gauging tiredness, energy, and impact on life participation.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateOct 22, 2020

Metoprolol: an old drug with unique cardioprotective properties

A study by CNIC scientists reveals metoprolol's ability to protect the heart during a heart attack is not shared by other beta-blockers. This unique property limits inflammatory damage and hyperactivation of neutrophils, which can cause significant additional injury to the heart.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateOct 9, 2020
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.

Anti-convulsant drug can modify DNA conformation and interact with chromosome proteins

Researchers from UNICAMP found that valproic acid can modify DNA conformation and interact with chromosome proteins. The compound causes changes in the conformation of histones H1 and H3, as well as DNA superstructure and molecular order. This discovery paves the way for novel pharmaceutical research.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalInternational Journal of Biological Macromolecules·DateSep 28, 2020

Human Brain Project launches 'Brain Matters' webinar series

The Human Brain Project is launching a new webinar series called 'Brain Matters', featuring hour-long sessions on different areas of brain research. Expert speakers will share their knowledge on the HBP's scientific achievements and the state-of-the-art infrastructure for brain research, EBRAINS.

SourceHuman Brain Project·DateSep 18, 2020

New high-speed test shows how antibiotics combine to kill bacteria

Researchers developed a new method to determine the effectiveness of combining two antibiotics, providing greater scope for customizing treatment. The CombiANT method allows laboratories to easily test interactions and can provide crucial information for treating bacterial infections.

SourceUppsala University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 17, 2020
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.

The pharmacist's role in HIV care in France

A recent study examined the pharmacist's role in HIV care in France, revealing that only 40% of pharmacists systematically offer online patient medication files to people living with HIV. The survey also found that 7% of those who were offered medication interviews felt well taken care of.

SourceWiley·JournalPharmacology Research & Perspectives·DateSep 10, 2020

'One size fits all' medication approach doesn't work in pregnancy

Research suggests that growth-restricted fetuses metabolize drugs differently due to reduced enzyme efficiency, putting them at increased risk of long-term health consequences. The 'one size fits all' approach to medication dosing during pregnancy may not be effective for all women and their babies.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalPlacenta·DateSep 8, 2020

Two ERC Starting Grants for MDC scientists

Two MDC scientists, Dr. Kathrin de la Rosa and Dr. Ilaria Piazza, have been awarded European Research Council (ERC) Starting Grants to fund their innovative projects in proteomics and immunology.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·DateSep 3, 2020
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.