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Neuroscience research leverages stem cells to understand how neurons connect and communicate in the brain

Researchers at Colorado State University used human stem cells to study synaptic connections in the brain, focusing on GABAergic synapses. They found that Gephyrin promotes autonomous assembly of these synapses, which can develop independently of neuronal communication. This understanding could lead to new treatments for neurological d...

SourceColorado State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 26, 2024
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.

ALS: Newly discovered subtypes and sex differences create new approaches for drugs

A study by TUM researchers discovered four subtypes of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) with different molecular processes, including sex differences. The findings suggest repurposing an approved cancer drug targeting the MAPK pathway as a promising therapeutic approach for ALS.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 21, 2024

Blast from the past

Researchers have discovered a new source of resistance to the devastating wheat blast disease, leveraging a gene that also protects against powdery mildew. The Pm4 gene, found in European wheat varieties, confers dual protection against the pathogen and its effector molecule AVR-Rmg8.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalNature Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2024

Quantum state mixing in photobiology – new insight from ultrafast terahertz Stark spectroscopy

Researchers used ultrafast terahertz Stark spectroscopy to characterize the molecular quantum states involved in the proton pump reaction of bacteriorhodopsin. The study reveals pronounced quantum state mixing in the early electronic and nuclear dynamics, supporting a picture of mixed excited-state characters.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2024

Advancing cancer detection by counting tiny blood-circulating particles

A University of Houston researcher has developed a new method to detect cancer using PANORAMA imaging and fluorescent imaging, achieving a 98.7% accuracy rate. The method analyzes the number and cargo of small EVs in patients' blood samples, allowing for early detection and improved treatment efficacy.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature·DateMay 30, 2024
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.

New AI algorithm may improve autoimmune disease prediction and therapies

A new AI algorithm developed by Penn State researchers may lead to better predictions and novel therapies for autoimmune diseases. The algorithm analyzes genetic code to identify additional genes of risk and outperforms existing methodologies, identifying 26% more novel gene and trait associations.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 20, 2024

New technology changes how proteins in individual cells are studied

Researchers have developed a new technique called molecular pixelation, which allows for the analysis of hundreds of proteins simultaneously in individual cells. This provides a more detailed picture of protein distribution and interactions, crucial for understanding cellular function and signaling.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Methods·DateMay 8, 2024

Now we know why successful treatment does not affect specific cancer cells

Glioblastoma cancer cells change their appearance and behavior to evade T-cell attack, rendering immunotherapy ineffective. Researchers found that these 'plastic' cells can also exhaust T-cells, making glioblastoma resistant to treatment.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNeuro-Oncology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 2, 2024

Researchers identify biomarkers in blood to predict liver cancer

A new study suggests that proteins detectable in the blood could improve predictions about risk of liver cancer, potentially leading to earlier therapeutic interventions. The researchers used proteomics to develop a prediction model and identified 56 plasma proteins associated with liver cancer.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 1, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Synthetic droplets cause a stir in the primordial soup

Scientists from OIST created synthetic droplets to mimic biological processes, finding that pH gradients facilitate Marangoni effect and enabling droplets to detect and migrate towards each other. This study sheds light on the movement of simplest forms of life in primordial soup billions of years ago.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2024

Simple trick could improve accuracy of plant genetics research

Researchers have developed a technique to account for global changes in transcription, revealing new insights into how plants respond to environmental stimuli. By using artificial spike-ins, they found that temperature changes at different times of day affect gene expression more significantly than previously thought.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalThe Plant Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2024
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.

Study identifies multi-organ response to seven days without food

Researchers followed 12 healthy volunteers taking part in a seven-day water-only fast, measuring thousands of proteins in their blood. The study showed that the body undergoes significant changes across multiple organs after three days without food, with potential health benefits visible only after this period.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Metabolism·TypeObservational study·DateMar 1, 2024
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.

New method for marking neurotransmitter receptors expressed in the living animal brain

Researchers have developed a new method to label naïve neurotransmitter receptor proteins in living animal brains without genetic manipulation. This technique, known as ligand-directed acylimidazole chemistry (LDAI chemistry), uses pulse-chase analysis to track the movement and fate of proteins in real-time.

SourceJapan Science and Technology Agency·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2024

AI tool predicts function of unknown proteins

A new AI tool, DeepGO-SE, successfully predicts the molecular functions of unknown proteins with high accuracy. This breakthrough enables researchers to analyze uncharacterized proteins, facilitating tasks such as drug discovery, metabolic pathway analysis, and disease associations.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateFeb 14, 2024

Trapping sulfate to benefit health, industry and waterways

Scientists have developed a cage-like molecule to trap sulfate in water, which could help control its concentration in health, industry, and environmental management. The molecular trap can be prepared inexpensively from off-the-shelf chemicals and has potential applications in medicine, such as treating cystic fibrosis.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Chemistry·DateFeb 14, 2024
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.

Scientists develop new biocontainment method for industrial organisms

Researchers at the University of Manchester have developed a new genetic biocontainment method that directly targets essential proteins, providing a robust escape frequency. The method uses an estradiol-controlled destabilizing domain degron to control survival of genetically engineered yeast organisms.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 6, 2024

Getting a better look at tumors

A new MRI-based method uses CEST technology to detect water cycling across cellular membranes, providing a non-invasive way to assess tumor malignancy and treatment effectiveness. The technique sheds light on tumor phenotype and offers a promising tool for personalized cancer diagnosis and therapy.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 5, 2024

Protein secrets unveiled: New molecular insight of protein–protein interactions

Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University have developed a novel method to characterize protein-binding interfaces, revealing complex protein geometries. The technique was validated by studying the homophilic interaction between LAMP2A molecules, which form a trimeric structure in mammalian cells.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalProtein Science·DateDec 20, 2023
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.

The double-edge sword of CRISPR application for in vivo studies

Researchers discuss CRISPR's limitations in generating accurate cancer models, including variable mutations and indels. Despite these challenges, the technology holds promise for cancer research due to its potential for natural selection and Darwinian evolution.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 28, 2023

UChicago chemists make breakthrough in drug discovery chemistry

Two studies from UChicago chemists offer complementary methods to address the challenge of replacing a carbon atom with a nitrogen atom in molecules. The findings could make it easier to develop new drugs by allowing for more efficient and precise modifications.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature·DateNov 1, 2023

Modulation of protein stability: a new approach to studying cosolvent effects

Researchers used molecular dynamics simulations to study how urea and alcohol induce structural changes in proteins, with a focus on stabilizing helices and coils. The team identified preferential binding parameters for both cosolvents, demonstrating opposing effects that can be predicted using computational methods.

SourceOkayama University·JournalProtein Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 19, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Lurbinectedin for Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs)

Researchers discuss lurbinectedin as a method to treat neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), with encouraging results from phase II basket studies demonstrating activity in platinum-sensitive relapsed SCLC and other malignancies. Lurbinectedin's mechanism of action involves inhibiting oncogenic transcription, promoting apoptosis and cell death.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncoscience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 6, 2023

The missing link to make easy protein sequencing possible?

Giovanni Maglia's breakthrough allows for simple handheld device protein sequencing with nanopore technology. Single-stranded proteins can be transported through the tiny hole in the same way as DNA strands.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2023

Scientists uncover COVID’s weakness

Researchers at University of California - Riverside uncover COVID's Achilles heel - its dependence on key human proteins. By understanding how the virus interacts with human cells, a new class of antiviral medication may be developed to block replication and treatment.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalViruses·DateSep 13, 2023

Breakthrough in scarless wound recovery achieved with autologous blood

Researchers at UNIST developed a microfluidic system to process blood into artificial tissue scaffolds for vascular regeneration. Autologous blood-based implants demonstrated superior wound closure rates, increased epidermis thickness, and enhanced collagen deposition in rodent skin wounds.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 6, 2023
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.

New gene-editing technique offers path to precision therapies

A new gene-editing technique combines peptide nucleic acids and prokaryotic Argonautes to introduce targeted breaks in the genome. The approach, called PNP editing, offers advantages over CRISPR-based methods, including improved specificity and targeting.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateAug 24, 2023

Accelerating discovery in artificial intelligence for science

The researcher aims to bridge completeness, efficiency, and applications in 3D graphs to solve problems in physics, fluid dynamics, and biotechnology. Geometric graphs can represent molecules, proteins, and drugs, enabling the prediction of their behavior and properties.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateAug 16, 2023

Coronavirus: Researchers develop new rapid and reliable detection method

Researchers at Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg have developed a new method for detecting SARS-CoV-2 using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, which takes just two hours from swab to result. The approach can also detect other pathogens and is more flexible than existing PCR tests.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalClinical Proteomics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 16, 2023
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.

Accurate data on dynamic molecular aggregates in cells for the first time

Researchers from University of Freiburg and University of Cambridge have observed dynamic molecular aggregates in cells for the first time. These condensates play a crucial role in controlling biochemical processes and are regulated by active biological mechanisms, not just physical forces.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 15, 2023

New machine-learning method may aid personalized cancer therapy

A new machine-learning method, BigMHC, can accurately predict cancer-related protein fragments that may trigger an immune system response. By leveraging massive data through transfer learning, BigMHC enables scientists to develop personalized immunotherapies and vaccines by identifying the most likely to provoke an immune response.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateAug 9, 2023

How the hospital pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii quickly adapts to new environmental conditions

Researchers find that Acinetobacter baumannii can achieve significant functional modifications in protein complexes over short evolutionary time spans, particularly in hair-like cell appendages. This diversity may affect the pathogen's interaction with its environment and inform personalized therapies.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalPLOS Genetics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 4, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Predicting lifespan-extending chemical compounds for C. elegans with machine learning

A new study uses machine learning to analyze data from DrugAge, a database of chemical compounds modulating lifespan in model organisms. The researchers create four types of datasets to predict whether or not a compound extends the lifespan of C. elegans, using features such as compound-protein interactions and Gene Ontology terms.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 26, 2023

Acute kidney injury not associated with worsening kidney function in persons with CKD

Researchers found that acute kidney injury does not predict worsening of kidney function trajectory in patients with CKD, suggesting that pre-existing kidney disease may be a major contributor. The study recommends focusing on flattening the eGFR slope and treating proteinuria to slow CKD progression.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJul 10, 2023

Researchers make major strides toward an all-purpose biosensor chip

The researchers have demonstrated significant improvements for chip-based sensing devices that can detect or analyze substances across widely varying concentrations. They developed signal-processing techniques that enable seamless fluorescence detection of a mixture of nanobeads in concentrations across eight orders of magnitude.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateJun 22, 2023

New Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis articles showcase innovative approaches for diagnostics and drug screening and evaluation

Recent studies in the New Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis feature novel diagnostic tools, RNA sequencing-based workflows, and mechanical property evaluations to enhance cancer and cardiovascular disease treatment outcomes. These innovations aim to improve the therapeutic effect of drugs and promote personalized medicine.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2023

SRI seeks to learn how insects speak through smells

Researchers at SRI International have identified genes that enable insects to produce terpenes, a key component of their chemical communication. This breakthrough provides a roadmap for understanding how these chemicals are used and could lead to new ways to protect crops and prevent insect-borne diseases.

SourceSRI International·JournalProtein Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 20, 2023
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.

Mass spectrometry uncovers actions of protein ‘glues’

Researchers developed a mass spectrometry method to analyze molecular glues and assess their relative strengths. The technique enables the elucidation of mechanisms through which these molecules stabilize protein interactions.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalChemical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2023

AI software can provide ‘roadmap’ for biological discoveries

Researchers updated their protein localization prediction model, MULocDeep, to provide more targeted predictions for biological discoveries. The tool helps researchers design more effective experiments and advance scientific discoveries related to drug development and treating diseases like epilepsy.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJun 2, 2023

Uncovering new mechanisms for wheat rust resistance

Researchers have cloned the wheat rust resistance genes Lr9 and Sr43, revealing that they encode unusual kinase fusion proteins. This breakthrough enables new options for addressing disease resistance in bread wheat and could lead to heat-resistant versions of the Sr43 gene to adapt to climate change.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 22, 2023
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.

Artificial photosynthesis for environmentally friendly food production

Researchers at TUM have successfully developed a method to produce the essential amino acid L-alanine from CO2 using synthetic enzymes and green methanol. This process requires significantly less space than traditional methods and can be powered by renewable energy sources, making it an important step towards more sustainable agriculture.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalChem Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2023

Stay CALM when the heart skips a beat

Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered a genetic mutation that causes lethal arrhythmia in humans. The study found that a novel variant of the CALM2 gene produces robust arrhythmogenicity in human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCirculation Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 13, 2023
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.

How protein-rich droplets form

Scientists have developed a new method to measure calorimetric quantities at the molecular level with picosecond time resolution. By tracking water's spectroscopic fingerprints in the THz range, researchers can accurately predict protein-rich droplet formation and its dependency on external parameters like temperature.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2023

Trigger for world's most common liver disease identified

Scientists have discovered that wrinkles in the cellular nucleus may be involved in common metabolic diseases such as diabetes and fatty liver disease. The new findings suggest that targeting these wrinkles could lead to novel treatments for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which affects 40% of people over age 70.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalGenome Research·DateFeb 9, 2023

New blood test can detect ‘toxic’ protein years before Alzheimer’s symptoms emerge, study shows

A new laboratory test can measure levels of amyloid beta oligomers in blood samples, detecting toxic proteins up to years before cognitive impairment. The test, SOBA, has shown promising results in identifying individuals at risk or incubating Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 5, 2022
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.

How animals find their way

A Collaborative Research Centre investigates animal navigation using the Earth's magnetic field. The study focuses on vertebrates, including birds and fish, aiming to protect endangered migratory species.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·DateNov 25, 2022

Fluorescent mouse blood will help us gain knowledge about brain diseases

Scientists have created a way to track brain diseases like depression, Alzheimer's, and strokes using fluorescent mouse blood. The method allows for months-long study of blood flow in the brain, providing new insights into disease progression and development.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2022
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Advancing artificial enzyme engineering

Scientists have devised a simple method using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) directed evolution to improve enzyme engineering. This approach can help develop engineered enzymes that can break down plastic and toxic waste, reducing environmental harm.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalNature·DateOct 5, 2022

Phosphate’s electrical signature helps detect important cellular events

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have developed a novel method for detecting protein phosphorylation using phosphate's electrical signature. The technique boasts 95% accuracy and 91% specificity, offering new avenues for clinical diagnosis and pharmaceutical applications.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2022