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Brown researchers develop new model to investigate fibrosis treatments without use of animals

Researchers at Brown University have developed a new laboratory test model to investigate fibrosis treatments without the use of animals. The model uses human cells and replicates not only the structure of human tissue but also its mechanics, enabling scientists to study the underlying mechanisms of fibrosis and test potential treatments.

SourceBrown University·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 1, 2022

Regrowing knee cartilage with an electric kick

Regrowing healthy cartilage in damaged joints is a promising approach to treating arthritis. UConn bioengineers successfully regrowed cartilage in a rabbit's knee using piezoelectricity, a phenomenon that also exists in the human body.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 12, 2022
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.

Regulatory circuits involving bud dormancy factor PpeDAM6

The PpeDAM6 gene plays a crucial role in regulating plant bud dormancy, responding to environmental conditions and hormonal signals. The study reveals the interaction between PpeBPCs and PpeDAM6, highlighting the importance of epigenetic regulation in modulating cell growth and tolerance to abiotic stresses.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·DateDec 21, 2021

Synthetic tissue model with blood vessels

Scientists create a cell culture system where blood vessels can grow within a framework made of synthetic materials. The team investigates material properties that promote blood vessel formation and refines the model to improve its performance, paving the way for growing implantable tissues.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2021
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.

Extracellular matrix guides growth and function of epithelial cells

Scientists at the University of Helsinki discovered that ECM protein Lama5 guides the growth and differentiation of epithelial cells in breast tissue, especially during pregnancy. The production of Lama5 strengthens the functionality of hormone-sensitive cells, allowing them to relay signals and support tissue growth.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalDevelopment·DateJul 1, 2021

Study seeks to understand, prevent ice recrystalization

Scientists at the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture are working on developing biobased peptides to restrict ice crystal growth in freezing temperatures. Successful methods could improve frozen food quality, increase crop resistance to freezing temperatures, and enhance biomedical research.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateJun 29, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Revealed: Coral fights back against crown of thorns starfish

New research reveals coral can fight back against juvenile crown of thorns starfish with stinging cells, damaging their arms and delaying growth. The study shows coral's defensive mechanism may not be enough to protect it from other threats like climate change.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateMay 4, 2021

Solving the puzzle of polymers binding to ice for Cryopreservation

A team of researchers from the University of Warwick has discovered that even short chains of poly(vinyl alcohol) bind to ice and inhibit recrystallization. This finding sheds new light on the fundamental principles of ice recrystallization, enabling the design of more effective cryoprotectants.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 15, 2021

Stressed-out young oysters may grow less meat on their shells

A study found that early exposure to heat and low oxygen can leave lasting scars on oysters' ability to grow tissue. Oysters invested more in growing their shells than tissue when exposed to the double punch of low oxygen and warmer waters. This could pose a problem for anyone involved in the seafood industry.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalEcological Applications·DateMar 1, 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.

Tiny sensor technique reveals cellular forces involved in tissue generation

A new technique developed by Brown University researchers reveals the forces involved at the cellular level during biological tissue formation and growth processes. The technique makes use of cell-sized spheres made from a highly compliant polymer material, which can be placed in laboratory cultures of tissue-forming cells.

SourceBrown University·JournalBiomaterials·DateFeb 5, 2021

Generation of conjunctivae in a dish

Researchers from Osaka University successfully generated functional conjunctival tissue in a dish, enabling the study of conjunctivae and the development of novel drugs for dry eye disease. The newly formed tissue contained goblet cells that produce mucins, mimicking human conjunctival biology.

SourceOsaka University·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 2, 2021

Preserving stem cells and tissue without the freezer burn

Researchers developed ice recrystallization inhibitors to halt ice growth in frozen samples, improving cell recovery and function. The technology prevents cellular damage caused by ice crystals, allowing for more efficient storage and transport of biological materials.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·DateJan 25, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Protein commonly screened for in pregnancy is linked to gestational diabetes

A UMass Medical School study finds that low levels of PAPPA, commonly screened for chromosomal disorders, are associated with adipose tissue remodeling and gestational diabetes. The protein is linked to insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), which promotes healthy adipose tissue development during pregnancy.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 30, 2020

A bypass route for the coronary vessels in the heart?

A novel bypass route for coronary vessels in the heart has been discovered using the VEGF-B growth factor, which can stimulate new blood vessel growth in damaged areas. This finding opens up possibilities for treating myocardial infarction by re-activating embryonic vessel growth programs.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalCirculation Journal·DateNov 19, 2020
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.

Algae breathe life into 3D engineered tissues

Researchers developed an algae-based 3D bioprinting method to incorporate vascular patterns within engineered tissues and provide a sustainable source of oxygen for human cells. The approach showed promise for applications in disease modeling, drug development, regenerative and personalized medicine.

SourceCell Press·JournalMatter·DateNov 18, 2020

Sensorimotor brain regions and action-specific activity

Research using functional MRI found that brain networks involved in movement planning and execution are activated differently based on the type of movement performed, even when using different body parts. The study suggests that these brain functions emerge from innate constraints in early development.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 26, 2020
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.

Next-gen organoids grow and function like real tissues

Researchers at EPFL create miniature intestines using stem cells and hydrogel scaffolds, achieving high physiological relevance. The new organoids can regenerate, model inflammatory processes, and host-microbe interactions, opening up exciting perspectives for disease modeling, drug discovery, diagnostics, and regenerative medicine.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature·DateSep 16, 2020

Antarctic ice shelf damage and instability

Researchers document rapid acceleration and thinning of Pine Island and Thwaites Glaciers in Antarctica. The growth of damage areas on the ice shelves compromises integrity and drives further disintegration, highlighting the importance of incorporating damage processes into ice sheet models.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2020
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.

Beautyberry leaf extract restores drug's power to fight 'superbug'

Scientists have discovered a compound in the American beautyberry leaves that works in combination with oxacillin to knock down resistance to the drug methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA. The study suggests a new potential therapy for treating antibiotic-resistant infections.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalACS Infectious Diseases·DateJul 16, 2020

'Nature's antifreeze' provides formula for more durable concrete

Researchers at CU Boulder have discovered a synthetic molecule that mimics natural antifreeze proteins, minimizing freeze-thaw damage and increasing the strength of concrete. This new method challenges conventional approaches and has the potential to reduce costs and decrease carbon emissions.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateMay 27, 2020

Preclinical study offers hope for Hirschsprung's

A preclinical study led by Children's Hospital Los Angeles surgeon Tracy Grikscheit successfully grew a fully functional gut nervous system in a pre-clinical model, offering hope for babies with Hirschsprung's disease. The study uses tissue engineering to grow the complete nervous system from scratch.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Tissue Engineering·DateMay 22, 2020
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.

Mechanisms responsible for tissue growth

Scientists studied mouse tail skin expansion from birth to adulthood, finding that it grows by a factor of 15 through self-duplication of developmental progenitors. Cell proliferation rates decreased over time, while single-cell RNA sequencing revealed molecular features of developmental progenitors.

SourceUniversité libre de Bruxelles·JournalCell·DateApr 29, 2020

Acoustic growth factor patterning

A new combination of 3D printing and acoustic droplet ejection technology enables precise control over growth factor presentation, promoting osteogenic differentiation in C2C12 mouse myoblast cells. This technique has vast potential for various tissue types beyond bone engineering.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalTissue Engineering·DateApr 15, 2020

Insights into the diagnosis and treatment brain cancer in children

Researchers have identified a gene linked to brain cancer in children that can aid in diagnosis and treatment. Elevated levels of the TPR gene were found in 38% of ependymoma cases, and its deletion led to reduced cancer growth and tumor shrinkage when treated with rapamycin.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalAutophagy·DateMar 26, 2020
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.

Deciphering the mechanism that determines organ size and shape

Researchers at IRB Barcelona discovered that Dpp and Wg morphogens stimulate growth through independent pathways, regulating organ proportions. The findings have significant implications for understanding malformations and congenital diseases in humans.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateFeb 21, 2020

Scientists identify gene that puts brakes on tissue growth

Researchers have identified a genetic signaling pathway that limits tissue growth in planarian flatworms, allowing for precise regeneration and repair. The mob4 gene suppresses tissue growth by preventing the production of Wnt, a protein involved in cancer cell regeneration.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 22, 2020
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.

How ancient trees maintain longevity

Old Ginkgo biloba trees display similar gene expression for flavonoids and other resistance genes in young and old trees. Increasing age is not accompanied by a significant decrease in leaf area or growth rate, suggesting that these trees may stay healthy due to robust stress defenses.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 13, 2020

Gene network helps to turn white fat into beneficial calorie-burning fat

Researchers have identified a genetic program controlling the development of beige fat cells, which can convert energy into heat. The study's findings suggest that people with more thermogenic fat cells may be less likely to develop obesity and related metabolic disorders.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 9, 2020

Carnivorous plant study captures universal rules of leaf making

Researchers studied the cup-shaped traps of Utricularia gibba and found that differential rates and orientations of growth are involved in shaping. A polarity field comparable to that proposed for flat leaves was also detected, providing a unified explanation behind diverse leaf forms.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalPLOS Biology·DateOct 10, 2019
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.

Crystal growth kinetics and its link to evolution

Researchers developed a framework to describe the process of ultrastructural morphogenesis of molluscan shells. They demonstrated that mineral phase growth is guided by regulating chemical and physical boundary conditions, influencing shell architecture and evolution.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2019

Laser printing technology: Creating the perfect bioprinter

Researchers analyzed 33 studies on laser-induced forward transfer (LIFT) bioprinting to optimize techniques and materials. They found that LIFT technology provides precise cell transfer and precise 3D printing capabilities, with potential applications in tissue transplantation.

SourceSechenov University·JournalBioprinting·DateAug 20, 2019

Could biological clocks in plants set the time for crop spraying?

New research suggests that understanding plant biological clocks can refine the use of chemicals like glyphosate, allowing for more efficient and sustainable agriculture practices. By applying treatments at optimal times, farmers can reduce herbicide usage, saving time and money while minimizing environmental harm.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 16, 2019

Lavender oil may contribute to abnormal breast growth in young girls

Research reveals lavender oil exposure contributes to premature breast development in young girls and boys. Discontinuing use of lavender-containing products resolves the issue, suggesting essential oils mimic estrogen and block testosterone.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateAug 14, 2019
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.

Another trick up the immune system's sleeve: Regrowing blood vessels

A new approach from Harvard researchers uses a biomaterial scaffold and childhood vaccines to attract and activate T cells that promote revascularization of ischemic tissues. The technique increases the concentration of T cells at the ischemic site and stimulates angiogenesis, blood flow, and muscle fiber regeneration.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 31, 2019

Molecular bait can help hydrogels heal wounds

Researchers have created a new type of hydrogel that can grow new tissue to heal wounds, eliminating the need for external growth factors. The hydrogels are made with biomolecules anchored in crosslinkers and can be mixed at room temperature.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 5, 2019
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.

Collagen fibres grow like a sunflower

Researchers at Universite Paris-sud studied how collagen fibrils form complex tissues. They found that the fibers grow in a unique, parabolic profile, with a constant diameter throughout growth, similar to a sunflower's florets.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateMay 13, 2019

A newly identified mechanism can be targeted to boost angiogenesis

Researchers at CNIC have identified a cellular and molecular mechanism that can induce productive angiogenesis in ischemic tissues. The newly discovered mechanism suggests that manipulating it could lead to optimal therapeutic angiogenesis, which may help treat cardiovascular disease.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 1, 2019
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.

Gene medication to help treat spinal cord injuries

Researchers at Kazan Federal University have developed a two-gene medication that recovers motor functions in rats after spinal cord injuries. The medication, which targets VEGF and FGF2 genes, stimulates axon growth and regeneration by increasing blood flow and neuron survivability.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateMar 18, 2019

New insights into radial expansion of plants can boost biomass production

Research by De Rybel (VIB-UGent) and Helariutta (SLCU) reveals that DOF-type transcription factors control plant radial growth, enabling targeted breeding for higher biomass production. This understanding can improve atmospheric carbon sequestration and increase crop yields.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 8, 2019