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Preterm birth is more likely with exposure to phthalates

A Rutgers researcher contributed to a National Institutes of Health study confirming a link between phthalate exposure and increased risk of preterm birth. The study examined data from 6,045 pregnant women in the U.S., finding that higher concentrations of phthalate metabolites were associated with slightly higher odds of preterm birth.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 22, 2022

Worms as a model for personalized medicine

Researchers used C. elegans to investigate inter-individual variation in metabolism and found genetic variants that affect metabolic differences between individuals. They discovered unique metabolites in different strains of the worm, which could help tailor biomedical recommendations to individual metabolism.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 19, 2022
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.

Collaborative effort led by UMass Chan Medical School spotlights worms as model for personalized medicine

A team of researchers developed a model system to study individual differences in metabolism using C. elegans worms. They identified a novel metabolic condition linked to variation in the hphd-1 gene, which has implications for personalized medicine and tailoring dietary advice and disease treatment to an individual's genome sequence.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalNature·DateJul 11, 2022

Case solved: The biosynthesis of strychnine elucidated

Researchers from the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology elucidate the complete biosynthetic pathway of strychnine, a highly toxic alkaloid used as rat poison. The study reveals that the conversion of prestrychnine to strychnine occurs spontaneously, without an enzyme.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 6, 2022

Asthmatics may soon breathe easier thanks to new breakthrough

Researchers have discovered a unique biochemical profile in severe asthmatic patients, which could lead to more effective treatments. The study found a decrease in carnitine metabolism in severe asthmatics, playing an important role in cellular energy generation and immune responses.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·TypeObservational study·DateJul 3, 2022

Lack of diversity of microorganisms in the gut or elevated metabolite implicated in heart failure severity

A systematic review found that reduced gut microbiome diversity and elevated trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) metabolite levels are associated with increased risk of death and hospital visits in heart failure patients. Further research on the impact of diet and potential interventions is underway.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalHeart Failure Reviews·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 20, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Western diets rich in fructose and fat cause diabetes via glycerate-mediated loss of pancreatic islet cells

A high-fat diet can lead to increased fructose metabolism in the small intestine, resulting in the release of glycerate into circulation. This can cause damage to insulin-producing pancreatic beta cells, increasing the risk of glucose tolerance disorders and Type 2 diabetes mellitus.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 9, 2022

New study in Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis reveals influence of host plant on medicinal qualities of mistletoe

A study published in Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis found that the quality of mistletoe, a traditional Chinese medicine, is affected by its host plant. The researchers used metabolomics to investigate the influence of host plants and environmental factors on mistletoe's medicinal qualities. The results show that both host plants an...

SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2022

Antagonistic interactions of plant defense compounds

Researchers found that tobacco hornworms can convert two plant defense substances, chlorogenic acid and HGL-DTGs, into less effective forms after ingestion. Plants adapt to their environment by selectively producing essential compounds and suppressing others, potentially avoiding mutual detoxification.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2022
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.

Fecal transplant throws new light on inflammatory bowel disease

Researchers found that fecal transplants restored intestinal function and reduced inflammation in mice lacking the antimicrobial compound catestatin. The study suggests that changes in gut microbial composition are responsible for the inflammatory response.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalGut Microbes·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 3, 2022

New discoveries in lupus research

Researchers at the University of Houston have identified blood biomarkers predicting heart disease in lupus patients and urine biomarkers for diagnosing kidney inflammation in children with lupus. These findings hold promise for early preventive measures and improved treatment outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalFrontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine·DateJun 2, 2022

How eating eggs can boost heart health

A recent study published in eLife found that eating up to one egg per day may help lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. The researchers identified 24 metabolites associated with self-reported levels of egg consumption and found that individuals who ate eggs regularly had higher levels of a protein called apolipoprotein A1.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateMay 24, 2022
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.

Menopausal hormonal shift alters women’s metabolism

Women's metabolism alters during menopause due to changes in sex hormone levels. Metabolite profiles show increased lipid and cholesterol levels, especially triglycerides and LDL particles, which can lead to atherosclerosis.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateMay 13, 2022

Researchers conduct first assessment of metabolites in African savanna elephants

Researchers assessed metabolites in African savanna elephants for the first time, finding little variation among six healthy adults on the same diet. The study establishes a technique to accurately capture metabolites and provides insights into metabolism and health relationships in these endangered animals.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalMetabolites·TypeObservational study·DateMay 10, 2022

Study sheds light on the benefits of exercise in fatty liver disease

A new study published in Scientific Reports reveals that regular high-intensity interval training exercise can significantly decrease fasting glucose levels and waist circumference, while improving oxygen consumption rates in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Exercise also modifies amino acid metabolism in adipose tissue...

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 3, 2022
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.

E. coli bacteria exploits Crohn’s disease inflammation

Research finds that intestinal inflammation liberates chemicals that nourish E. coli's growth and promote inflammation, highlighting new treatment targets for Crohn's disease. The study identifies key compounds that feed E. coli, such as phospholipids and amino acids, and shows that these compounds can enhance the bacteria's virulence.

SourceCornell University·JournalJCI Insight·DateApr 27, 2022

New software to help discover valuable compounds

A new app called Metaboseek has been developed to streamline the analysis of comparative metabolomics data, helping researchers identify valuable compounds. The app was created by a postdoctoral research associate and is now essential to his lab's work.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 29, 2022
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.

Nordic diet lowers cholesterol and blood sugar – even if you don't lose weight

A new analysis by University of Copenhagen researchers found that a Nordic diet has positive health benefits regardless of weight loss. The diet's unique fat composition, high in omega-3 and omega-6 unsaturated fats, plays a significant role in lowering blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalClinical Nutrition·DateMar 8, 2022

Treating heart attacks with a medium chain fatty acid

Researchers at Michigan Medicine found that a medium-chain fatty acid called octanoic acid can reduce further injury and improve heart function after a heart attack. This discovery could lead to the development of a new therapy to treat heart attacks, targeting the interplay between energy metabolism and epigenetics.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 8, 2022

Nature Medicine publishes full results from axial therapeutics’ phase 1b/2a clinical trial in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

The Phase 1b/2a clinical trial found that AB-2004 lowered blood and urinary levels of gut-derived metabolites and improved irritability and anxiety in adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The study's results support the potential of AB-2004 as a novel therapeutic approach for treating co-occurring conditions associated with ASD.

SourceDigital Mantra Group·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 2, 2022
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.

Herbs that protect the heart: Bilobalide reduces cardiac damage in myocardial ischemia, says new study in Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis

Researchers found that bilobalide, an active ingredient in Ginkgo biloba extract, protects the heart from ischemic injuries by preserving ATP generation and enhancing metabolic flux. The study suggests that bilobalide may provide a new herbal therapy for treating myocardial ischemia.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 24, 2022

Fungus found to synthesize valuable compounds in perennial plant found in Northern Asia

A study discovered that fungus Cyanodermella asteris synthesizes valuable compounds in plant Aster tataricus, influencing its growth. The interaction reveals a two-way dialogue between the microbe and host, with the fungus producing beneficial compounds while also being influenced by plant hormones.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2022

Meat, MS and the microbiome

A study by UConn Health and Washington University School of Medicine found that eating more meat correlates with worse MS symptoms, altered gut bacteria, and increased immune cells. The research identified key bacteria and metabolites associated with the disease, providing new insights into its causes.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalEBioMedicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The genomic structure of microbial communities can predict metabolic activity

A new study reveals that the genes present in a microbial community can predict its dynamic metabolic activity, with implications for the nitrogen cycle and other biogeochemical processes. The research provides insights into how scientists can infer metabolite dynamics from aggregate gene content, design microbial communities for speci...

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2022

Urinary metabolic ‘signatures’ predict diet quality and metabolic health in European children

Researchers identified four metabolites that indicate adherence to a Mediterranean diet, while ultra-processed foods consumption was associated with lower levels of these metabolites. The study's findings support public health efforts to recommend increased Mediterranean diet adoption and limiting ultra-processed food intake in childhood.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·TypeObservational study·DateJan 26, 2022
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.

Genomic regions discovered that could help understand obesity

A new study has identified 74 previously unknown genomic regions that influence how people's bodies break down food into energy. These findings could help develop more personalized ways to maintain a healthy weight by taking into account an individual's genetic profile.

SourceNIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Guy’s and St Thomas’ and King’s College London·JournalMetabolites·TypeObservational study·DateJan 11, 2022

Cannabis use could cause harmful drug interactions

New research suggests that cannabis use can lead to harmful drug-drug interactions by interfering with two families of enzymes that metabolize a wide range of drugs. This could result in unintended side effects such as toxicity or accidental overdose, particularly for older individuals using medications.

SourceWashington State University·JournalDrug Metabolism and Disposition·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 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.

Metabolic differences in the diagnosis of and treatment refinement for episodic and chronic depression

A study in young psychiatric outpatients with episodic or chronic depression found differences in one-carbon and energy metabolism, which could aid in diagnosis and targeted treatments. The preliminary results suggest potential mechanisms behind chronicity, highlighting the need for larger cohorts to confirm findings.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders Reports·DateDec 8, 2021

Cleveland Clinic study links gut microbiome and aggressive prostate cancer

Researchers found diet-associated molecules in the gut are associated with aggressive prostate cancer, linking them to higher levels of metabolites like phenylacetylglutamine and nutrients choline and betaine. The study's findings may have clinical implications for diagnosing and preventing lethal prostate cancer.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalCancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention·DateOct 28, 2021

Systemic lupus erythematosus linked to altered gut microbiome

A recent study published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases reveals a link between systemic lupus erythematosus and an altered gut microbiome. Researchers at Osaka University identified two species of Streptococcus bacteria significantly increased in SLE patients, which can affect the body's functions by altering plasma metabolites. T...

SourceOsaka University·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 27, 2021

A map of mouse brain metabolism in aging

Researchers created the largest metabolome analysis of the mouse brain, revealing distinct chemical conversions between brain regions. Aging mice showed significant metabolic differences in brain sections, with lipids playing a crucial role in changes to brain function.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 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.

Migraines caused by alterations in metabolite levels

Researchers at QUT identified causal genetic links to three blood metabolite levels that increase migraine risk. These findings could lead to the development of compounds that target metabolite levels and prevent migraines.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalThe American Journal of Human Genetics·DateOct 12, 2021

Natural compound in basil may protect against Alzheimer’s disease pathology

A study by University of South Florida Health researchers suggests that fenchol, a natural compound in basil, can help reduce neurotoxic amyloid-beta in the brain. Fenchol stimulates FFAR2 signaling, reducing senescent neuronal cells and increasing Aβ degradation.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2021

New biomarker for severe COVID-19

Scientists at Karolinska Institutet have discovered a carbohydrate called mannose as a biomarker for severe COVID-19 disease severity. The study found that glycolysis and glutaminolysis play a crucial role in SARS-CoV-2's spread and growth, providing potential new therapeutic strategies.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2021
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.

The hidden talent of fungi

Researchers at TU Wien propose a new method to interpret and mine fungal genomes to predict essential genes for the production of valuable substances. The FunOrder method identifies co-evolved genes that are functionally necessary, distinguishing them from gap genes.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 4, 2021

How we age, as told by spit

Researchers identified 99 saliva metabolites related to energy synthesis, digestion, growth, and cell health, with 21 metabolites differing between young and elderly individuals. Age-linked salivary metabolites reflect biological aging, including a 1.96-fold increase in ATP production in the elderly.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 17, 2021

Body clock off-schedule? Prebiotics may help

A new study suggests that prebiotics can help realign sleep-wake cycles and core body temperature after chronic disruption of rhythms, hosting health-promoting microbes and a different metabolome. Researchers hope to develop customized prebiotic mixtures for individuals with frequent circadian disruptions.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalBrain Behavior and Immunity·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2021

Signs of dementia are written in the blood, reveals new study

A new study published in PNAS has identified 33 metabolic compounds associated with dementia, which could aid in diagnosis and treatment. The researchers found that levels of these metabolites differed significantly between patients with dementia and healthy elderly individuals.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2021

Aptasensors helpful in detection of mycotoxins

Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites of fungi that contaminate agricultural products, posing severe health risks. Aptasensors utilize aptamers to specifically detect mycotoxins with high sensitivity and specificity, allowing for fast and reliable detection in field settings.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalChemosensors·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 8, 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.

Probiotics prove effective in treating antibiotics-induced dysbiosis in mice

A study by Kazan Federal University found that probiotics administered to antibiotic-treated mice improved behavior, reduced oxidative stress, and restored gut microbiota diversity. The researchers demonstrated a strong link between the gut microbiota and brain functioning, with potential therapeutic benefits for treating dysbiosis-rel...

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalLife·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 26, 2021

Like Venom Coursing Through the Body: Researchers Identify Mechanism Driving COVID-19 Mortality

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation has identified an enzyme called secreted phospholipase A2 group IIA as a key mechanism driving COVID-19 severity. The enzyme is found to be associated with increased mortality rates, particularly when its levels are high, and could provide a new therapeutic target for reducing ...

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 24, 2021

Prozac changes fat composition of the monkey brain

Researchers found Prozac reduces lipid concentrations in monkey brains, linked to potential side effects in young patients. The study suggests dietary changes may alleviate adverse effects by influencing lipid synthesis.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateAug 23, 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.

ME associated with cellular energy strain

Researchers found biochemical changes in ME patients' blood, supporting the theory that ME is linked to impaired cellular energy supply. The study identified distinct metabolic signatures and adaptations among patients, which may relate to disease severity.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalJCI Insight·DateAug 23, 2021

A simple compound to control complex gut microbes

Researchers at RIKEN discovered that acetate triggers an immune response against harmful bacteria by increasing IgA production and altering the balance of intestinal bacteria. The study suggests that acetate can be used to regulate the gut microbiome and prevent disease.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature·DateJul 19, 2021

NIST uses method to understand the molecular underpinnings of a disease affecting corals

Researchers at NIST used an emerging molecular profiling method to analyze a type of tumor-like disease called growth anomalies in corals. The study identified 18 small molecules that promise to help better understand the series of molecular reactions leading to the disease, which affects coral skeletons and soft tissues.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalCoral Reefs·DateJul 9, 2021