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First atom-level structure of packaged viral genome reveals new properties, dynamics

A computational model of the more than 26 million atoms in a DNA-packed viral capsid has expanded our understanding of virus structure and DNA dynamics. The study found that the DNA formed switchback loops as it was pushed into the capsid, similar to how DNA is organized in eukaryotic cells.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 6, 2024

How AI can help spot early risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers at UCSF used clinical data and a precision medicine approach to identify early risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease, predicting its onset with 72% accuracy. High cholesterol, osteoporosis, and erectile dysfunction were found to be predictive factors in both men and women.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Aging·DateFeb 21, 2024

Automated method helps researchers quantify uncertainty in their predictions

Researchers have introduced an optimization technique that accelerates Bayesian inference without requiring extensive user effort. This new automated method achieves more accurate results faster than another popular approach and offers reliable uncertainty estimates to help scientists understand when to trust their predictions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Machine Learning Research·DateFeb 21, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Uncovering insights about prostate cancer risk and genetic ancestry

A recent study from Argonne National Laboratory has uncovered new insights into the relationship between genetic ancestry and prostate cancer risk. The research, which included large increases in representation among men of African, Hispanic, and Asian ancestries, found 187 new genetic markers that provide more accuracy in calculating ...

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateFeb 13, 2024

NUS scientists develop novel method to estimate biodiversity loss in Singapore over the past two centuries

A new study reveals that Singapore has lost 37% of its species over the past two centuries, with larger mammals and forest-dependent birds being particularly at risk. The researchers recommend prioritizing landscape-scale conservation efforts for charismatic species, such as tigers and orangutans, to mitigate extinction rates.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 29, 2024
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.

New model predicts how shoe properties affect a runner’s performance

A new model developed by MIT engineers predicts how certain shoe properties will affect a runner's performance, incorporating factors like stiffness and springiness. The model aims to help designers create high-performing shoes with novel properties.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Biomechanical Engineering·DateJan 24, 2024

When lab-trained AI meets the real world, ‘mistakes can happen’

A new study by Northwestern University found that lab-trained AI models are easily misled by tissue contaminants, resulting in errors in diagnoses and vessel damage detection. The researchers suggest improving the problem of quantifying and addressing biological impurities in AI models to enhance accuracy.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalModern Pathology·DateJan 23, 2024

Decoding the neural key to how humans efficiently walk at varied speeds

A research group from Tohoku University Graduate School of Engineering has replicated human-like variable speed walking using a musculoskeletal model steered by a reflex control method reflective of the human nervous system. The breakthrough in biomechanics and robotics sets a new benchmark in understanding human movement.

SourceTohoku University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJan 22, 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.

The megalodon was less mega than previously believed

A new study published in Palaeontologia Electronica shows the Megalodon was more slender than earlier studies suggested, changing our understanding of its behavior and impact on ancient ocean life. The revised model suggests a longer digestive canal, potentially leading to less predation pressure on other marine creatures.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPalaeontologia Electronica·DateJan 21, 2024

FIFA World Cup ends with win for Argentina and COVID-19, new research finds

Researchers used the 2022 FIFA World Cup to study COVID-19 spread and hospitalizations at mass gatherings. They found that pre-travel screenings did little to prevent infections, but pre-match testing with rapid antigen or reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction tests was more effective.

SourceYork University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJan 18, 2024

Optical aspects of quantitative photoacoustic tomography

The review discusses the optical aspects of QPAT, including mathematical models for light propagation and interaction with biological tissues. The authors outline two approaches to estimating chromophore concentrations from absorbed optical energy density data, highlighting the challenges associated with practical implementation, such ...

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateJan 11, 2024
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 model allows for learning and prediction of microbial interactions

Researchers developed a new framework to predict how microbes interact with each other in unique compositions. Most microbes had minimal impact on the final outcome, with only select few playing crucial roles. The model has potential applications in personalized medicine and understanding microbiome assembly.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 30, 2023

The mind’s eye of a neural network system

Researchers at Purdue University developed a new tool to visualize neural network decisions, making it easier to identify errors in image recognition. The tool uses graph-topological data analysis to provide a bird's-eye view of all images in a database, revealing areas where the network struggles to distinguish between classifications.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 16, 2023
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.

Sleep and stress give clues to understanding epileptic seizures - study

A recent study discovered two subgroups of people with idiopathic generalized epilepsy, one experiencing highest incidence during sleep and the other during daytime. The researchers found that either dynamics of cortisol or sleep stage transition explained most of the observed distributions of epileptiform discharges.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 17, 2023

The fuel economy of a microswimmer

A new model describes microswimmer self-propulsion energy requirements, enabling optimized shape designs and applications in microfluidics, biophysics, and material science. The study reveals surprising similarities between artificial and natural shapes.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 12, 2023

A step towards AI-based precision medicine

Researchers at Linköping University developed an AI-based method applicable to various medical and biological issues, accurately estimating people's chronological age and determining smoking status. The models identify previously known epigenetic markers used in other models, but also new markers associated with conditions.

SourceLinköping University·JournalBriefings in Bioinformatics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 11, 2023
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.

Order from a border

Cilia synchronize their beating pattern by leveraging the fluid surrounding them and the border region. This observation reveals that border regions play a critical role in self-organization of living matter, similar to macroscopic mechanisms.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 29, 2023

AI chest X-ray model analysis reveals race and sex bias

A recent study published in Radiology: Artificial Intelligence found significant racial and sex-related biases in an AI chest X-ray foundation model, affecting its performance across patient subgroups. The researchers highlighted the need for comprehensive bias analysis to ensure diversity and representativeness in dataset collection.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology Artificial Intelligence·DateSep 27, 2023

3D organoids unlock promising insights into lung cancer in dogs

Veterinary researchers used 3D organoids to investigate lung cancer in dogs, finding that canine primary lung cancer organoids faithfully mirrored tumor tissues. The study identified correlations between organoid cell viability and specific target molecules, paving the way for personalized treatment approaches.

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalBiomedicine & Pharmacotherapy·DateSep 26, 2023
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.

AI helps bring clarity to LASIK patients facing cataract surgery

Scientists developed computational eye models to help patients and surgeons select ideal intraocular lenses and predict visual outcomes. The technology uses anatomical information of the patient's eye to provide guidance on expected optical quality post-operatively.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalJournal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 21, 2023

Evaluating the shear viscosity of different water models

Associate Professor Tadashi Ando from Tokyo University of Science conducted a study to test the performance of OPC and OPC3 water models, evaluating their shear viscosities and comparing values to experimental calculations. The calculated viscosities for both models were very close, with notable accuracy at temperatures above 310 K.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 21, 2023
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.

Alzheimer’s: An M.D./Ph.D. graduate student’s request for Yuhua Song as mentor leads to two NIH R01 awards totaling $5 million

The collaboration has garnered $5.68 million of grant support, with a five-year $2.13 million National Institutes of Health R01 grant and a five-year $2.89 million NIH R01 grant. Researchers are using computational biology to model a key Alzheimer's protein called TREM2 and its interactions with small chemical molecules.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·DateSep 12, 2023

Most species are rare. But not very rare

Researchers analyzed data from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility and found a universal pattern of species abundance distributions, with most species being rare but not extremely rare. The study's findings may help answer Darwin's question about why some species are common while others are rare.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 4, 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.

Acting fast when an epidemic hits

A team of researchers at the University of Waterloo and Dalhousie University have developed a method for forecasting short-term disease progression using limited data. The Sparsity and Delay Embedding-based Forecasting model, or SPADE4, uses machine learning to predict epidemic progressions with high accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalBulletin of Mathematical Biology·DateAug 31, 2023

Which radio waves disrupt the magnetic sense in migratory birds?

A new study by the University of Oldenburg team confirms that radio waves in the VHF range above 116MHz have no impact on migratory birds' magnetic compass sense. This discovery debunks previous theories suggesting mobile communication networks affect the birds' navigation.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 28, 2023

Remoteness didn’t protect Amazonian Tsimané from COVID-19

A new study found that voluntary collective isolation alone was ineffective in preventing the spread of COVID-19 among the Amazonian Tsimané. The researchers used a computer model and serological testing to confirm their predictions, showing nearly identical infection rates across communities.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 24, 2023
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.

The protein protectors of fertility

Researchers from Osaka University have shed light on how certain proteins contribute to the formation of piRNAs, a type of RNA that protects the genome. Tejas plays a key role in recruiting Vas and Spn-E, facilitating nuage formation and piRNA processing.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2023

A fungus gets comfortable

Researchers found that clinical strains of Aspergillus fumigatus differ significantly from environmental strains in amino acid synthesis. The fungus appears to shape the lung microbiome to its advantage, surviving on vital metabolites produced by other microorganisms.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute -·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 7, 2023

An escape signal for the nematode: Artificial intelligence helps elucidate structure of a novel light sensor

A team of scientists has successfully elucidated the structure and function of LITE-1, a biomolecule used by Caenorhabditis elegans to detect danger. The researchers used artificial intelligence to predict the structure of LITE-1, which is a channel protein that forms a pore in the cell membrane allowing charged particles to pass through.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2023

KIAA0930: A cachexic phenotype inducer in cancer cells

Researchers have identified KIAA0930 as a key factor causing muscle atrophy in cancer cells, which could lead to the development of new anti-cachexia therapies. The study found that KIAA0930 knockdown cells showed increased muscle mass and weight compared to control cells.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeObservational study·DateJul 26, 2023
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.

Introducing GOBI: A breakthrough computational package for inferring causal interactions in complex systems

GOBI overcomes model-free and model-based inference method limitations by introducing an easily testable condition for a general monotonic ODE model to reproduce time-series data. It successfully infers positive and negative regulations in various networks, distinguishing between direct and indirect causation.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 24, 2023

Food size matters

A study by Kyoto University found that Daphnia's phenotypic plasticity is strongly related to its body size and the type of predator. Medium-sized Daphnia are more vulnerable to predation by both Chaoborus larvae and fish, which prefer larger prey.

SourceKyoto University·JournalFreshwater Biology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 19, 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.

Alien invasion: Study reveals alarming economic costs of biological invasions to the European Union

A recent study led by McGill University estimates that the European Union will face significant economic losses due to biological invasions, with costs projected to reach over €142.73 billion by 2040. The study highlights the need for effective management and collaboration to address this threat.

SourceMcGill University·JournalEnvironmental Sciences Europe·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 13, 2023

The Ising on the cake

A team of researchers from Kyoto University and international institutions has developed a mathematical solution to the temporal asymmetry of nonequilibrium disordered Ising networks. This breakthrough offers insights into the behavior of biological systems, machine learning, and AI tools.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 4, 2023

A new generic treatment for multiple types of cancer

Researchers have developed a new technique to generically treat several kinds of cancer, showing tumors grew almost three times less and survival rates reached 100% after just one injection. The method targets cancer cells with alpha radiation, sparing healthy tissue.

SourceRIKEN·JournalChemical Science·DateJun 27, 2023
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.

Disc-on-a-chip technology promises new strides in back pain research

Biomedical engineers at UTS have developed an intervertebral disc-on-a-chip, a precision-engineered toolbox for low back pain studies. The device simulates the complex mechanobiology of native tissue, enabling accurate evaluation of experimental methods for treatment or regeneration.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalTrends in Biotechnology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 28, 2023

Artificial muscle fibers could serve as cell scaffolds

Researchers designed and tested textile fibers that can change shape and generate force like a muscle, showing promise for use as cell scaffolds. The findings suggest the fibers could be used to develop 3D models of living, moving systems in the human body.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalBiomimetics·DateMay 25, 2023

Porphyrinic metal-organic frameworks for biological applications

Porphyrinic metal-organic frameworks (PMOFs) have been synthesized using various methods, including solvothermal synthesis. The native biocompatible properties of porphyrins endow PMOFs with great potential in biological applications. Several possible frameworks can be formed with a large scale of metal ions.

SourceBeijing Zhongke Journal Publising Co. Ltd.·JournalAdvanced Sensor and Energy Materials·DateMay 14, 2023

Social conformity in pandemics: How our behaviors spread faster than the virus itself

A new model for disease transmission takes into account the effects of social dynamics and social norms on behaviors such as mask-wearing. The study found that small changes in certain factors can lead to large changes in disease spread rates, creating distinct infection waves. Social conformity creates a 'stickiness' where individuals...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 10, 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.

AI training: A backward cat pic is still a cat pic

Researchers have developed a new method called EvoAug that uses artificial DNA sequences inspired by evolution to train deep neural networks for genome analysis. This approach enables the model to recognize regulatory motifs more accurately, leading to better performance and potential breakthroughs in understanding human health.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenome Biology·DateMay 4, 2023

Model suggests lowering hormone doses in contraceptives

A new computational model suggests that reducing hormone doses in contraceptives could effectively suppress ovulation. The model found that hormone doses could be lowered by up to 92% in estrogen-only contraceptives and 43% in progesterone-only contraceptives, while still preventing ovulation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 13, 2023

Why do females prefer ornate male signals?

A team of researchers at Eötvös Loránd University developed a general formula to calculate honest equilibrium in any model, independent of signal costs. Their results reveal that honesty does not require signal costs to be paid in equilibrium, and that the cost is borne by cheaters, not honest individuals.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalBMC Biology·DateApr 4, 2023

Study finds fish assess misinformation to avoid overreaction

Researchers found that fish in large schools are more willing to take risks and tune down their sensitivity to social cues, reducing the likelihood of responding to false alarms. This dynamic adjustment allows individuals to maintain control over their behavior, suggesting a potential evolutionary advantage in coping with misinformation.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 28, 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.

Scientists devise new way to measure skin barrier function

Researchers from Japan create a new model for estimating transepidermal water loss, providing a more realistic picture of skin water loss. The new method uses confocal laser microscopy and Raman spectroscopy to measure stratum corneum thickness and water content.

SourceOkayama University·JournalAdvanced Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 20, 2023