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A heat-sensitive calcium channel gets positive feedback

Researchers at Osaka University discovered that mutant variants of the RyR1 calcium channel protein are more sensitive to heat than normal proteins, leading to a cycle of activation that can cause malignant hyperthermia. This finding provides new insight into the condition and could lead to preventive and treatment strategies.

SourceOsaka University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 8, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Liver cancer’s supercharged metabolism offers a new treatment strategy, Penn study suggests

Researchers discovered that liver cancer cells modify their metabolism to leave them susceptible to disruptions in arginine supply, a key molecule. A three-pronged approach targeting tumor metabolism, blocking survival-promoting responses, and starving tumors of arginine can induce senescence, making cancer cells killable.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2022

Building block for a longer life

Heidelberg University researchers have identified a key protein HYPK that regulates N-terminal acetylation, prolonging plant protein life and enhancing drought resistance. This mechanism appears to be ancient, retained across various organisms.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 15, 2022

Light-powered microbes are super-producing chemical factories

Researchers from Osaka University engineered microorganisms to use light as an external energy source, accelerating biomanufacturing of target compounds without disrupting the host microorganism's natural metabolism. This approach has the potential to increase efficiency and reduce carbon emissions in bioprocesses.

SourceOsaka University·JournalMetabolic Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 11, 2022

Cell cultures not as stable as you'd think

Researchers monitored cell environments for three days, finding significant differences from native conditions. The team aims to develop recommendations on improving culture conditions and reduce environmental instability.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 8, 2022

Heartburn helps bacteria to survive antibiotic treatment

Scientists discovered that surviving bacteria share a common feature: they accumulate acid in their cells, shutting down protein synthesis. This leads to increased survival and can be exploited to develop new antimicrobial treatments.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 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.

Pancreatic cancer cells feed off hyaluronic acid

Researchers found that hyaluronic acid is not only present in pancreatic tumors but also serves as a nutrient source for cancer cells. This discovery indicates potential new treatments for pancreatic cancer by targeting the sugar scavenging pathway.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2022

Researchers develop optical biopsy system that detects liver cancer

The new technology can reliably distinguish between cancerous and healthy liver tissue, aiding diagnosis and potentially reducing errors in biopsies. The researchers plan to continue measuring fluorescence lifetime parameters in patients with different types of tumors to generate real-time diagnostic classifiers.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateJan 6, 2022

Specific metabolic dependencies of cancer cells revealed by perturbation with tailored chemical library offer new therapeutic possibilities

Researchers identified specific metabolic vulnerabilities in leukemia cell lines, including sensitivity to PI3K and fatty acid synthase inhibitors. The study highlights the potential for targeted cancer therapy by exploiting these dependencies.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 14, 2021

Deleting dysfunctional cells alleviates diabetes

Researchers at UConn Health have discovered that eliminating senescent cells in human fat tissue can alleviate signs of diabetes and improve insulin sensitivity. The study suggests that clearing away these dysfunctional cells could lead to game-changing new treatments for Type 2 diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 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.

No more aggravation: ATP-hydrolyzing ectoenzyme E-NTPD8 attenuates colitis

Researchers at Osaka University found that E-NTPD8 regulates luminal ATP levels, which affects immune cells and promotes inflammation in colitis. Depletion of neutrophils improved symptoms, highlighting the enzyme's role in preventing severe colitis.

SourceOsaka University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 20, 2021

Fixing protein production errors lengthens lifespan

A recent study published in Cell Metabolism found that reducing naturally occurring errors in protein synthesis improves both health and lifespan. By engineering a mutation in ribosomes, researchers observed fewer protein mistakes and improved heat resistance, leading to longer lifespans in yeast, worms, and fruit flies.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 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.

What happens to gold nanoparticles in cells?

Researchers found gold nanoparticles undergo significant transformations after a few weeks in cellular environments. They revealed mechanisms of detoxification and cell protection, also seen in the degradation of other nanomaterials.

SourceCNRS·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 16, 2019

Researchers find potential new target for treatment of inflammatory disease

A team of researchers from the University of Birmingham has found a potential new target to treat inflammatory disease. They discovered that lactate build-up in inflamed tissue exacerbates the inflammatory response, and molecules involved in transporting sodium lactate could be a target for treatment.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalCell Metabolism·DateNov 7, 2019

NIH study finds heavily processed foods cause overeating and weight gain

A small-scale trial found that participants eating ultra-processed foods consumed more calories and gained weight than those on a minimally processed diet, despite similar calorie counts. The study suggests that ultra-processed foods may be a significant contributor to overeating and weight gain.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMay 16, 2019
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.

Intestines modify their cellular structure in response to diet

The study found that dietary cholesterol alters cellular programming, promoting hormone-producing cells and nutrient-handling cells. Low nutrient availability triggers changes in intestinal structure and metabolism with long-term effects on metabolic health.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateSep 20, 2018
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.

Shivering and exercise both trigger same fat-burning effect

Researchers identified a lipid that circulates in the blood after exercise and exposure to cold, which may help reduce triglyceride levels and improve cardiovascular health. The lipid, called 12,13-diHOME, is produced by brown fat and promotes the uptake of fatty acids into working muscles during exercise.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMay 1, 2018

Mice on ketogenic diets live longer and healthier in old age

Two independent mouse studies found that ketogenic diets improved memory in older animals and increased their chances of living longer. The diets also preserved physical fitness and altered insulin signaling pathways in the mice. Further research is needed to fully understand the effects of a ketogenic diet on human health and aging.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateSep 5, 2017
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.

Eat fat, live longer?

A recent mouse study at UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine reveals that a high fat, ketogenic diet increases median life span by 13% and improves quality of health in later life. The study also shows improvements in memory and motor function, as well as prevention of age-related markers of inflammation.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalCell Metabolism·DateSep 5, 2017

For mice, too much muscle glycogen impairs endurance exercise performance

A study published in Cell Metabolism found that high glycogen levels actually impair endurance muscle performance in mice. Glycogenin-deficient mice underperformed normal mice despite having higher glycogen levels, suggesting a switch from oxidative to glycolytic metabolism in slow-twitch muscles.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJul 5, 2017

Is white or whole wheat bread 'healthier?' Depends on the person

A recent study found that different people react differently to white and whole wheat bread, with half responding better to processed flour and the other half to sourdough. The researchers developed an algorithm to predict individual responses, pointing towards a new paradigm in nutrition based on personal microbiomes.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJun 6, 2017

Physicists reveal cocktails with Dr. Jekyll and Mr Hyde features

Researchers discovered that two-liquid cocktails exhibit long-range correlations at equilibrium and when disturbed, resulting in coexistence of different characteristics within the same fluid. Understanding these effects is crucial for studying diffusion mechanisms in various physical and biological processes.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateNov 3, 2016
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.

Blast of thin air can reset circadian clocks

A study published in Cell Metabolism found that varying oxygen levels can reset the circadian clock of mice, which could inform how airlines moderate cabin air pressure. The research also suggests potential benefits for humans, including alleviating jetlag and improving air travel comfort.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateOct 20, 2016

Sex hormones skew outcomes in clinical trials -- here's how

A growing number of scientists argue that sex hormones and other variables affect how therapeutics behave, necessitating male and female inclusion in trials. Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can significantly impact research, making it essential to consider these differences when testing drugs or transplant tolerance.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 9, 2016
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.

Fish oil-diet benefits may be mediated by gut microbes

A new study suggests that fish oil diets are more effective than lard diets due to the presence of certain gut bacteria. Mice transplanted with gut microbes from a fish oil diet showed reduced weight gain and inflammation compared to those with lard diet microbes.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 27, 2015

Exercise-induced hormone irisin is not a 'myth'

Researchers have found that human irisin circulates in the blood at nanogram levels and increases during exercise. The discovery resolves a long-standing controversy over irisin's existence, with alternative start codons explaining its production in skeletal muscle cells.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 13, 2015
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.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Hot on the trail of cellular metabolism

The study reveals that UCP2 is involved in increased metabolism in embryonic stem cells and cancer cells, while UCP4 is associated with nerve cell metabolism. The findings suggest that UCP proteins can be used to detect diseases at an early stage, such as cancer and neurodegenerative illnesses.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 4, 2014

Controlling protein intake may be key to a long and healthy life

Two studies suggest that low protein intake may be beneficial for longevity until old age, while high-protein diets are associated with increased cancer risk and mortality. High-quality protein with low fat and complex carbohydrates is recommended for optimal health and long life.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMar 4, 2014

Researchers discover molecule behind the benefits of exercise

Researchers discovered a molecule produced during exercise that helps protect against metabolic diseases, including diabetes and heart disease. The molecule, β-aminoisobutyric acid (BAIBA), was found to increase fat cells' ability to burn calories and balance blood sugar levels.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJan 7, 2014
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.

UW-Madison scientists create roadmap to metabolic reprogramming for aging

Researchers created an atlas that maps molecular connections between caloric restriction and aging, identifying pathways in mitochondria that control metabolism. The study suggests therapies targeting Sirt3 function could provide novel interventions to prevent age-related illnesses.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalMolecular Cell·DateNov 29, 2012

Milk ingredient does a waistline good

A natural milk ingredient called nicotinamide riboside has been found to protect against obesity in mice. It works by boosting levels of NAD+, a molecular sidekick for SIRT1, which helps with metabolism and longevity.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJun 5, 2012
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.

Study links insulin action on brain's reward circuitry to obesity

Researchers have found that insulin directly affects the brain's reward circuitry, leading to increased food intake and obesity in mice. This study suggests that insulin resistance may contribute to the difficulty in managing weight loss. Further research is needed to understand the clinical implications of these findings.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJun 7, 2011

Apple ingredient keeps muscles strong

Researchers identified a natural compound in apple peels as a promising new treatment for muscle wasting. Ursolic acid enhanced insulin signaling and corrected gene signatures linked to atrophy, promoting muscle growth and reducing blood levels of glucose and cholesterol.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJun 7, 2011

Chili peppers come with blood pressure benefits

A recent study found that long-term dietary consumption of capsaicin in chili peppers can reduce blood pressure in genetically hypertensive rats by activating the TRPV1 channel and increasing nitric oxide production. This could lead to potential benefits for humans with high blood pressure.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 3, 2010
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.

Study sheds light on triglyceride metabolism

A study published in Cell Metabolism identifies GPIHBP1 as the key protein responsible for transporting lipoprotein lipase (LPL) into capillaries. This discovery offers new insights into the causes of hypertriglyceridemia, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJul 7, 2010

Dynamic changes in DNA linked to human diabetes

A study reveals that dynamic changes in DNA, known as epigenetic marks, play a crucial role in the development of diabetes. Researchers found that these changes occur rapidly and can be influenced by environmental factors such as diet and physical activity.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateSep 1, 2009
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.

High-fat diets plus extra protein make for bad mix

A new study reveals that high-fat diets supplemented with extra branched chain amino acids can lead to insulin resistance and diabetes in rats. The researchers found that BCAA tend to climb along with insulin resistance, and its effects are exacerbated when combined with high fat consumption.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateApr 7, 2009

On a high-fat diet, protective gene variant becomes bad actor

A gene variant that protects against weight gain and insulin resistance becomes a bad actor on high-fat diets, new research suggests. Mice with the Ala12 variant show improved insulin sensitivity and better plasma lipid profiles on balanced diets but worsen these outcomes when fed a diet high in fat.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJan 6, 2009

Fat transplantation can have metabolic benefits

Researchers found that transplanted subcutaneous fat into mice visceral cavity showed improved blood sugar and insulin levels, while visceral fat had detrimental effects. The findings suggest fat cells in different depots have intrinsically different properties.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMay 6, 2008
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.

Eating protein boosts hormone that staves off hunger

Researchers found that increasing protein in the diet augments the body's PYY hormone, reducing hunger and aiding weight loss. High-protein diets stimulate greater release of PYY than high-fat or high-carbohydrate meals.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateSep 5, 2006