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The first effective therapy against glioblastoma by attacking telomeres

Researchers have developed a new therapy that blocks the TRF1 protein, which is essential for protecting telomeres in glioblastoma cells. This approach has shown promising results in mouse models, with a significant increase in survival rates and reduction in tumour growth.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalCancer Cell·DateNov 13, 2017

SUTD researchers solve mystery behind red blood cell maturation

A team of SUTD researchers identified over 1800 proteins in young reticulocytes, revealing key changes in protein composition during maturation. These findings provide insights into the transition from a multi-lobular to biconcave shape and increased deformability.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalBritish Journal of Haematology·DateNov 2, 2017
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.

Massage could be used to aid recovery of damaged limbs

Researchers found that massage increased muscle growth after loss and improved protein manufacture in cells, leading to faster regeneration. Additionally, non-massaged muscles showed accelerated growth, suggesting massage could benefit both injured and healthy limbs.

SourceThe Physiological Society·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateOct 31, 2017

Esophageal cancer 'cell of origin' identified

Basal progenitor cells have been identified as the 'cell of origin' for Barrett's esophagus, a condition that can lead to esophageal adenocarcinoma. The discovery promises to accelerate the development of precise screening tools and therapies.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature·DateOct 11, 2017

Plant cells survive but stop dividing upon DNA damage

Scientists at NAIST have discovered a molecular pathway that explains how plant cells cease cell division upon DNA damage. The study found that the transcription factor family MYB3R prevents progression to the M phase of the cell cycle, allowing plants to maintain genome integrity.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 6, 2017
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.

New method to measure cell stiffness could lead to improved cancer treatments

Researchers at UCLA have developed a new method called quantitative deformability cytometry (q-DC) to rapidly determine a single cell's stiffness and size. This technique allows for standardized measurements of single cells and could lead to improved cancer treatments by tracking patient progress and predicting drug effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateOct 3, 2017

Mini-kidneys grown in lab reveal renal disease secrets

Researchers at UW Medicine have developed mini-kidney organoids that can track the early stages of polycystic kidney disease. By manipulating the micro-environment, they found that cyst formation can be increased or decreased.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature Materials·DateOct 2, 2017

Rainbow colors reveal cell history

Researchers developed a method to trace the history of beta-cells in zebrafish, revealing dynamic sub-populations with different developmental histories. These findings have implications for understanding diabetes progression and developing effective strategies for beta-cell regeneration and protection.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 22, 2017
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.

Fluorescence microscopy on a chip -- no lenses required

Researchers developed a microfluidic chip-based platform for analyzing live cells using fluorescence microscopy. The platform uses a CMOS image sensor and allows for fully automated systems, making it suitable for high-throughput applications.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateSep 19, 2017

New tool for cell-free therapy based on artificial membrane vesicles

Scientists at Kazan Federal University have developed a new tool for cell-free therapy using artificial membrane vesicles, which retain biological properties of donor cells. The study demonstrates that these vesicles can stimulate angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateSep 12, 2017
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.

Blindness study shows how gene causes middle-age sight loss

Scientists have identified a gene that causes blindness in middle age, shedding light on a devastating genetic condition. The study found changes in the RPGR gene damage eye cells and lead to X-linked retinitis pigmentosa, affecting night and peripheral vision before causing complete blindness.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 6, 2017

Thorough analysis reveals immune system dynamics after immunotherapy

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a technique to monitor the maturation process of the immune system in leukaemia patients after stem cell transplantation. This study identifies patterns linked to clinical complications and provides new knowledge on the regulation and dysregulation of the immune system.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 29, 2017

Where do heart cells come from?

Id genes have been linked to heart development for the first time, revealing a new tool to create large numbers of cardiac cells to regenerate damaged heart tissue. The study uses CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing and high-throughput microRNA screening to identify the role Id genes play in heart development.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalGenes & Development·DateAug 22, 2017

Organ crosstalk: Fatty liver can cause damage to other organs

Researchers found that fatty liver disease can cause damage to other organs, particularly the pancreas. The protein fetuin-A produced by the fatty liver triggers an inflammatory response in the pancreas, leading to reduced insulin secretion and worsening of blood glucose regulation.

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalDiabetologia·DateAug 18, 2017
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 technique overcomes genetic cause of infertility

Scientists have created healthy offspring from genetically infertile male mice using a new technique that removes the extra sex chromosome. The approach has potential for treating human infertility caused by Klinefelter syndrome and Double Y syndrome.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalScience·DateAug 17, 2017

UCLA scientists identify a new way to activate stem cells to make hair grow

Researchers at UCLA have identified a novel method to activate dormant stem cells in the hair follicle, which could lead to breakthroughs in treating hair loss. By manipulating cellular metabolism, they found that increasing lactate production accelerates hair growth in mice.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateAug 14, 2017
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.

Link between biological clock and aging revealed

A UCI-led study found that a low-calorie diet helps maintain efficient energy processing in cells, which is linked to younger aging. The researchers also discovered that calorie restriction can rejuvenate the biological clock and prevent tissue aging in stem cells.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalCell·DateAug 10, 2017

Transforming skin cells to insulin

Researchers at the University of Bergen have successfully transformed skin puncture cells from diabetes patients into insulin-producing cells. The goal is to transplant these cells under the skin, potentially replacing insulin shots and blood sugar measurements.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 9, 2017

USC Stem Cell discovery refreshes the heart

Researchers identified a genetic variation underlying heart muscle regeneration in adult mammals. The study found that some individuals can naturally recover from a wounded heart due to higher percentages of regenerative cells, and that modulating the activity of a specific gene may enhance regeneration.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 7, 2017

Good cellular neighbors combat incipient cancers

Healthy skin cells have been found to actively correct tissue flaws created by cancerous cells, eliminating tumors in mouse models. The study highlights the importance of normal cells in maintaining tissue health and functionality.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateAug 2, 2017
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.

Study reveals how to reprogram cells in our immune system

Scientists at the Gladstone Institutes have discovered a method to reprogram specific T cells, turning pro-inflammatory cells into anti-inflammatory ones. This breakthrough could lead to improved treatments for autoimmune diseases and therapies using stem cells.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature·DateAug 2, 2017

Stem cells may help improve corneal wound healing

A new review examines the role of various stem cells in corneal wound healing, highlighting similarities and differences in the process. Stem cell transplantation may fine-tune wound healing and provide benefits for patients.

SourceWiley·JournalStem Cells·DateJul 31, 2017

Concerns that sleep apnea could impact healthspan

Scientists suspect sleep apnea diminishes healthspan due to its link with age-related diseases, including non-alcoholic liver disease and Alzheimer's, prompting researchers to explore treatment options.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Molecular Medicine·DateJul 27, 2017
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.

Genetic DJ: Growing cells remix their genes

A study by Babraham Institute and Weizmann Institute reveals genes are constantly rearranged in cells, changing their positions to fine-tune gene expression. Researchers collected data from over 4,000 individual cells using single-cell Hi-C technology, providing unique insights into genome organisation.

SourceBabraham Institute·JournalNature·DateJul 5, 2017

NUS study: Plants sacrifice 'daughters' to survive chilly weather

A NUS study found that plants selectively kill part of their roots to withstand cold weather conditions, allowing them to recover faster when temperatures rise. This discovery could lead to novel strategies to improve crop growth and yield under environmental stress.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalCell·DateJun 23, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

inflammatory molecule essential to muscle regeneration in mice, Stanford researchers find

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine discovered a lipid metabolite called prostaglandin E2 that activates muscle stem cells responsible for repairing damage after injury or exercise. Treating mice with PGE2 accelerates muscle repair and strength regain, while nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs inhibit this process.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 12, 2017

World first: Stem cell treatment for lethal STAT1 gene mutation -- shows 'disappointing' but promising results

Researchers conducted a study assessing stem cell transplantation for patients with a rare 'gain of function' STAT1 gene mutation. The treatment showed encouraging results, with five patients being completely cured and disease-free, but the overall success rate was disappointing at 40%. Experts propose adjusting treatment parameters, s...

SourceHiroshima University·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJun 8, 2017

Making vessels leaky on demand could aid drug delivery

Rice University scientists have discovered a way to selectively open gaps in blood vessel barriers, allowing large molecule drugs to reach targeted tissues. The technique uses magnets to manipulate nanoparticles and alter the endothelial cell's structure, creating temporary 'leakiness' that can be controlled.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 8, 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.

Gene therapy could 'turn off' severe allergies

Researchers have successfully 'turned off' the immune response that causes allergic reactions in animals using gene therapy. The treatment, which targets specific immune cells, has shown promise in de-sensitizing the immune system to proteins, potentially treating severe allergies like asthma and peanut allergies.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalJCI Insight·DateJun 2, 2017

Healing wounds with cell therapy

Researchers at the University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre discovered a way to modify white blood cells to accelerate cutaneous healing. The treatment uses a special protein called MFG-E8 to control macrophage behavior, promoting anti-inflammatory and pro-reparatory reactions.

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateMay 29, 2017

Study implicates 2 genetic variants in bicuspid aortic valve development

Researchers have discovered two genetic variants associated with bicuspid aortic valve development, which affects the heart's ability to pump oxygen-rich blood. The study, published in Nature Communications, found that these variants affect a key cardiac transcription factor called GATA4, leading to disruptions in valve formation.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 25, 2017
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.

Taking a closer look at genetic switches in cancer

A genetic switch that regulates blood stem cell maturation is dysregulated in acute myeloid leukemia. Researchers have identified a protein, DPF2, that controls this switch and developed a mutated version of the protein that can block its function. This new approach may lead to more effective treatments for leukemia.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 22, 2017

Injured bones reconstructed by gene and stem cell therapies

A Cedars-Sinai-led team developed a technique that cues bone to regrow its own tissue, potentially replacing bone grafts. The innovative method combines ultrasound, stem cell and gene therapies to mend severely broken bones.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 17, 2017

Scientists find skin cells at the root of balding, gray hair

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center discovered that a protein called KROX20 is essential for hair pigmentation and a gene called SCF determines the color of hair. The study found that deleting these genes leads to gray or white hair in mice, providing potential insights into balding and aging.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalGenes & Development·DateMay 8, 2017

Engineered bone marrow could make transplants safer

Researchers at the University of California San Diego have developed biomimetic bone tissues that provide a safe space for donor cells to grow without competition from host cells. This breakthrough technology has shown promising results in mice, with donor cells surviving for up to six months and supplying new blood cells.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 8, 2017

Sperm study reveals testes cells that may offer fertility hope

Researchers have identified a group of critical cells in the testes that play a key role in repairing damage to produce healthy sperm. These Miwi2-expressing cells are essential for regeneration and may help preserve fertility in pre-pubescent boys undergoing cancer treatment.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMay 4, 2017
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Do BAT receptors hold the key to treating obesity and diabetes?

Researchers found that TRPM8 and TRPP3 receptors can create more 'good' fat (brown adipose tissue) than 'bad' fat (white adipose tissue), potentially converting bad fat to good. This discovery has implications for treating obesity, diabetes, and related metabolic disorders.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateApr 17, 2017

Stem cell patch shows early promise in treating heart failure

Researchers used patient's own muscle stem cells to create patches that were surgically glued onto the surface of patients' hearts. One year after treatment, patients showed improvements in exercise capacity and heart function, suggesting this cell patch may be a viable therapy for treating heart failure.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateApr 5, 2017
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.

How to hack a cell

A new study by Boston University engineer Wilson Wong outlines a simplified platform to target and program mammalian cells as genetic circuits, enabling researchers to make complex computations. The BLADE platform uses DNA recombinases to allow for more targeted manipulation of cells and their behavior.

SourceBoston University College of Engineering·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateApr 4, 2017

New type of insulin-producing cell discovered

Researchers at the University of California, Davis have discovered a possible new route to regenerating beta cells, giving insight into healthy metabolism and diabetes. This discovery could lead to better treatment or cures for diabetes by understanding how these cells mature into functioning beta cells.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalCell Metabolism·DateApr 4, 2017

Low-calorie sweeteners promote fat accumulation in human fat

Preliminary research suggests that low-calorie sweeteners promote metabolic dysfunction and increase glucose transport into cells. Studies found increased expression of genes markers of fat production and inflammation in human stem cells exposed to sucralose.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateApr 3, 2017
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.

Stem cell innovation regrows rotator cuffs

Researchers from UConn Health have developed a way to regenerate rotator cuff tendons after they're torn, creating stronger repairs. The nano-textured fabric seeded with stem cells helps the tendons attach better to the bone and heal more evenly.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 3, 2017

Researchers show p300 protein may suppress leukemia in MDS patients

Scientists at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center have found that p300 protein acts as a tumor suppressor, preventing myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) from developing into acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Eliminating p300 in mice results in rapid leukemia development.

SourceUniversity of Miami Miller School of Medicine·JournalLeukemia·DateMar 27, 2017

Laser activated gold pyramids could deliver drugs, DNA into cells without harm

Researchers have developed a new method to deliver large and diverse cargos directly into cells with high efficiency and no lasting damage. The team used gold pyramid-shaped microstructures and nanosecond laser pulses to create brief pores in the cell membrane, allowing molecules to diffuse into the cell.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalACS Nano·DateMar 23, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Study identifies molecular clues for age-related intestinal issues

Researchers found that intestinal stem cells lose regenerative capacity with age and that reactivating Wnt signaling can restore healthy function in older people. The study suggests a possible therapeutic approach to address imbalances in food and nutrient absorption, which may be linked to diminished Wnt signaling.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 14, 2017