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Calcium signals balance the body's response to infection against potential for self-attack

Researchers found that a specific type of calcium-based signal regulates the production of immune cells that drive and ramp down the body's massive reaction to invading organisms. The study suggests that fine-tuning calcium signals may enhance immune responses to influenza vaccines and treat chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalImmunity·DateMay 31, 2016

Why humans (and not mice) are susceptible to Zika

Researchers have identified a key protein in Zika virus that blocks the action of interferons in human cells, making humans more susceptible to infection. This discovery could lead to new therapeutic approaches and vaccine development by blocking the activity of this protein.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateMay 19, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Novel role for spleen B cells in inflammatory response to bacterial toxins

A research team at the University of Tsukuba identified a crucial role for spleen marginal zone B lymphocytes in exacerbating endotoxin shock through cytokine production. MZ B cells produce large quantities of IL-6 and other inflammatory chemokines in response to LPS, highlighting their strong pro-inflammatory role.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 9, 2016

Antibodies in breast milk help newborn mice tolerate good gut microbes

A new study reveals that breast milk immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies play a critical role in helping newborn mice tolerate beneficial gut microbes. This finding challenges previous research suggesting IgA antibodies are primarily responsible for teaching the neonatal immune system to tolerate gut microbes.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateMay 5, 2016
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Eye cells may use math to detect motion

Researchers at NIH discovered that neurons in the eye use mathematical processing to distinguish moving objects, amplifying signals through multiplicative scaling. This process may help cells determine object speed and direction.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNeuron·DateMar 7, 2016

Ancient viral invaders in our DNA help fight today's infections

A new study reveals that ancient viral elements embedded in our genome have become important for mounting a proper defense against today's viral infections. The research found that these endogenous viruses have repurposed their DNA into virus-derived switches that regulate genes integral to our innate immune system.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalScience·DateMar 3, 2016

Put that in your e-cigarette and smoke it, or should you?

Researchers found that e-cigarette chemicals suppress key immune genes in the nasal mucosa, similar to smoking cigarettes. The study suggests that e-cigarettes may have broader effects on respiratory immune responses than initially thought.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·DateFeb 11, 2016
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.

The mechanism of an AIDS vaccine candidate filmed in vivo

Researchers have filmed in vivo the process by which an AIDS vaccine candidate recruits immune cells to destroy infected cells. The study, published in Nature Medicine, shows how the vaccine induces the formation of the inflammasome, a complex assembly of proteins that triggers an immune response.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalNature Methods·DateDec 22, 2015

Early childhood exposure to farm animals and pets modifies immunological responses

A recent study found that early childhood exposure to farm animals modifies immunological responses, particularly in dendritic cells and cytokine production. Farm exposures were associated with lower levels of proinflammatory cytokines and increased production of non-allergic Th1-associated cytokines.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalScandinavian Journal of Immunology·DateDec 14, 2015
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.

Autoimmune epilepsy outcomes depend heavily on antibody type

Studies reveal that different types of autoimmune responses elicit distinct responses in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. Antibodies targeting intracellular proteins lead to a worse prognosis and poorer response to immunotherapy compared to those against cell surface proteins.

SourceAmerican Epilepsy Society·DateDec 4, 2015

'Rat vision' may give humans best sight of all

Researchers found that human brains have a subset of cells that fire in response to inputs from both eyes, similar to those in rodents. This discovery suggests that humans have the best possible visual system, with primitive pathways allowing for quick spotting of danger and complex behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 19, 2015
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.

A 'nervous system' for ant colonies?

Researchers studied ant colonies subjected to simulated predator attacks, revealing differentiated responses based on location. The results show that ants respond appropriately to damage, similar to single organisms, with colony-wide responses triggered by loss of workers within the nest.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 11, 2015

Researchers solve longtime puzzle about how we learn

A Johns Hopkins University research team has validated a theory on the brain's mechanism of learning, finding that 'eligibility traces' effectively tag neural synapses activated by stimuli, linking actions with rewards. This discovery could enhance teaching methods and lead to treatments for cognitive problems.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNeuron·DateOct 26, 2015
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.

New study: Algae virus can jump to mammalian cells

A new study by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln has provided direct evidence that an algae-infecting virus can invade and replicate within some mammalian cells. The virus, known as Acanthocystis turfacea chlorella virus 1 (ATCV-1), successfully infiltrated macrophage cells in mice, causing changes characteristic of a viral infection.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalJournal of Virology·DateOct 21, 2015

How mechanical stretching forces impact human vascular cells

An in vitro study found that smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells respond uniquely to mechanical stretching, with different frequencies triggering distinct adaptations. Understanding these responses could lead to cell-type specific activation of vascular cells for improved regenerative medicine strategies.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology and Medicine·JournalExperimental Biology and Medicine·DateOct 19, 2015

Towards a favorable systemic radio-immunother target

A study using ^90Y-daclizumab, an anti-CD25 monoclonal antibody, achieved complete and partial responses in 50% of patients with relapsed Hodgkin's lymphoma. The treatment showed minor toxicity, but six patients developed myelodysplastic syndrome, limiting its use as a standalone therapy.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2015
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.

TSRI study identifies novel role of mitochondria in immune function

A recent study by TSRI researchers has uncovered a novel pathway between the cell's powerhouses (mitochondria) and the immune system. RIPK3, an enzyme involved in cell death, relays signals between mitochondria and NKT cells, regulating both cancer and inflammatory responses.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 18, 2015
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.

How neurons remember

Research reveals that stored memories are coded as permanent changes in neuronal communication and connection strength, influencing response behavior and gene expression. The study demonstrates that spine calcium responses can undergo long-term enhancement through ryanodine receptor activation.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 20, 2015

Scientists discover key to what causes immune cell migration to wounds

Researchers discovered that immune cells are drawn to damaged sites via hydrogen peroxide and a well-established immune signaling pathway. This knowledge could help design therapies to control immune cell behavior and prevent diseases like autoimmunity and chronic inflammation.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 28, 2015

Understanding how cells follow electric fields

Researchers at UC Davis identified genes linked to electrotaxis in amoebas, which could help understand electrical signals detection. The study's findings may lead to new insights into wound healing and tissue development.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience Signaling·DateMay 28, 2015

Do flies have fear (or something like it)?

Researchers studied flies' response to shadows, finding that they display persistent defensive behavior, generalizable across contexts. The study suggests that flies may help understand the fundamental neurochemistry of fear and emotions.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 14, 2015

Shedding light on rods

Researchers use a novel technique involving focused light beams to study the activity of rods, the light-sensitive cells of the retina. They found that the electrical response of the nerve changes depending on the region of the cell being hit by the light.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 5, 2015
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Memory immune cells that screen intruders as they enter lymph nodes

Researchers identify 'Follicular Memory T cells' near lymph node entrances to screen for microbe re-entry. These cells help create potent antibodies in secondary antibody responses, outsmarting circulating memory cells. This discovery paves the way for more effective vaccines.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalImmunity·DateMar 31, 2015

Promising vaccine strategy for type 1 diabetes extended to humans

Researchers at National Jewish Health found a response in human cells consistent with vaccination response in mice, using a mutated insulin fragment. The finding suggests an immune response in humans could lead to a vaccine and treatment for diabetes.

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 23, 2015

Scientists map memorable tunes in the rat brain

Researchers used a rat model to map the brain's communication between nerve cells as they learned to make decisions based on specific sounds. The study found that training rats to associate low frequency tones with food strengthened synaptic connections in the striatum, leading to improved performance.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNature·DateMar 3, 2015

Immune cells -- learning from experience

A team of researchers found that T-helper cells can retain information on the specific cytokine needed to produce in response to an infection. This memory allows them to activate and release the pre-determined quantity of cytokine when faced with a new infection.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalImmunity·DateFeb 20, 2015
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.

Under pressure

Researchers found that receiving cells respond to pressure on their membranes by stiffening their skeletons to prevent movement away from the attacking cell. This process allows for close proximity of cell membranes, enabling fusion to occur.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateFeb 12, 2015

New cellular pathway triggering allergic asthma response identified

Researchers have discovered a novel signaling pathway critical to the immune response of cells associated with allergic asthma. Increasing cAMP levels inhibited the cells' inflammatory response, suggesting a potential target for new therapies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 19, 2015

NIH grants aim to decipher the language of gene regulation

The NIH has awarded over $28 million in grants to decipher gene regulation and its role in human health and disease. Researchers will study gene networks and pathways in different systems to develop new treatments for diseases like cancer, diabetes, and Parkinson's.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·DateJan 5, 2015

New class of synthetic molecules mimics antibodies

Researchers at Yale University have developed synthetic antibody mimics (SyAMs) that target disease cells and stimulate immune responses, offering potential for treating prostate cancer and other diseases.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateDec 17, 2014
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.

Cells can use dynamic patterns to pluck signals from noise

Researchers found a way for cells to encode information about incoming chemical signals, given their variable states. By analyzing responses over time, they eliminated the 'noise' of cellular variability and accurately recorded signal levels.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·DateDec 11, 2014

How cells know which way to go

Two new studies from Johns Hopkins shed light on how complex cells detect and respond to minute differences in chemical concentrations. Cells use their internal 'skeleton' to influence gradient detection and movement, with implications for development, immune response, wound healing, and cancer metastasis.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 27, 2014

Penn researchers untangle the biological effects of blue light

The study reveals that blue light sets off a tug-of-war between melanopsin and S-cones to make the pupil smaller or bigger. This understanding has implications for seasonal depression and light sensitivity, and opens up new avenues for research into clinical conditions such as pain from bright light.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 20, 2014

Mouse model provides new insight in to preeclampsia

A mouse model study suggests that elevated VEGF and sFLT1 levels during pregnancy can lead to preeclampsia-like symptoms and pregnancy loss. The findings highlight the potential consequences of therapies targeting these proteins for treating preeclampsia.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 20, 2014
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.

Corn spots: Study finds important genes in defense response

North Carolina State University researchers have identified candidate genes controlling the hypersensitive defense response in corn, a rapid localized cell death that limits pathogen spread. The findings could help build better defense responses in corn and other plants.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateSep 12, 2014

An embryonic cell's fate is sealed by the speed of a signal

New research from Rockefeller University suggests that the speed of a signal plays a crucial role in determining an embryonic cell's fate. The study found that cells respond better to signals with pulses rather than continuous ones, and that slower increases in signal strength can lead to weaker responses.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateAug 4, 2014

Scientists discover clues why weight-loss surgery cures diabetes

Research finds gut hormone cells, previously thought to contain one hormone, actually secrete six hormones including ghrelin. The discovery sheds light on how weight-loss surgery can cure diabetes, with understanding these hormonal changes crucial for a potential cure.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalEndocrinology·DateJul 10, 2014
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Scientists uncover features of antibody-producing cells in people infected with HIV

Researchers analyzed blood samples from nearly 100 HIV-infected volunteers and found that B cells, which produce antibodies, are more activated, unstable, and unresponsive to HIV. In contrast, antiretroviral therapy improves B-cell response to HIV, with normal cells dominating.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 2, 2014

T cell repertoire changes predictive of anti-CTLA-4 cancer immunotherapy outcome revealed

A study using Sequenta's LymphoSIGHT platform reveals that patients with longer survival have lower numbers of T cell clones that decrease in frequency after treatment. This association holds for both prostate cancer and melanoma patients, suggesting that immune repertoire sequencing could predict clinical benefit of immunotherapies.

SourceSequenta Inc.·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 28, 2014
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.

UAlberta researchers examine metabolism in defective cells

UAlberta researchers found that activating both AMPK and retrograde response pathways simultaneously can benefit cells with damaged mitochondria. This study provides a new concept for dealing with metabolic problems associated with mitochondrial disorders.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 11, 2014

UNC researchers show how cancer cells may respond to mechanical force

Researchers at UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center found that cancer cells stiffen in response to mechanical force, opening gaps for immune cells to pass through. This discovery sheds new light on cancer development and metastasis, potentially leading to new therapies.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateApr 9, 2014

Vaccine used to treat cervical precancers triggers immune cell response

Researchers have developed a vaccine that triggers an immune cell response within the damaged tissue itself, potentially providing a more accurate way to evaluate its effectiveness. The vaccine has shown promise in treating cervical precancers, with some patients experiencing complete regression of lesions.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 29, 2014
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.

Protecting the skin from sun exposure

Researchers have identified a specific protein involved in mediating the skin's response to UVR and found that the signal transduction cascade resembles a light-activated pathway in the eye. This new insight into the molecular pathway underlying UVR detection could lead to improved sun protection methods.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of General Physiology·DateJan 27, 2014