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Venom factories: A surprising molecular convergence, from wasps to snakes

A study led by SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics reveals a strong convergence in global gene expression levels of venom glands across diverse animals. The research found that different species, including fish, scorpions, and mammals, use similar molecular mechanisms to produce toxins.

SourceSwiss Institute of Bioinformatics·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 4, 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.

A potential protector against a mild heart attack’s aftereffects on metabolism

A study in mice suggests that transplanted brown fat can reduce type 2 diabetes risk factors after a heart attack by dampening gene activation linked to negative effects. The transplantation method could help researchers understand the mechanisms behind this protective effect and potentially lead to therapeutic applications.

SourceOhio State University·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2021

The role of messenger RNA in DNA repair

A study by University of Seville researchers reveals that messenger RNA modifying factors play a crucial role in the repair of DNA breaks. The discovery could lead to better understanding of rare diseases and cancer. Messenger RNA editing facilitates the removal of trapped RNA molecules, allowing for proper DNA repair.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 3, 2021

FoxO-KLF15 regulates macronutrient metabolism in response to insulin signaling

Researchers from the University of Tsukuba found that the FoxO-KLF15 axis regulates macronutrient metabolism in the liver in response to changes in insulin levels. This pathway promotes the conversion of protein to carbohydrate and prevents the conversion of carbohydrate to fat during fasting, but shuts down during feeding.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournaliScience·DateNov 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.

Studying the placenta to gain a better understanding of febrile seizures in children

A Québec research team studied the expression of three families of genes in the placenta and found associations with febrile seizure characteristics. The study, led by Professor Sarah Lippé, may help understand the underlying mechanisms of febrile seizures and their impact on children's cognitive development.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalJournal of Neuroendocrinology·DateNov 16, 2021
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.

Vitamin D supplement may enhance dairy cows’ immune health

Researchers found that vitamin D supplementation with calcidiol increased the expression of genes related to cell adhesion and migration, pathogen recognition, and pathogen killing in dairy cows. This suggests a possible link between vitamin D and enhanced immune function, particularly during early lactation.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 14, 2021

Migraines caused by alterations in metabolite levels

Researchers at QUT identified causal genetic links to three blood metabolite levels that increase migraine risk. These findings could lead to the development of compounds that target metabolite levels and prevent migraines.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalThe American Journal of Human Genetics·DateOct 12, 2021

Alzheimer’s and COVID-19 share a genetic risk factor

A UCL-led research team has identified an anti-viral gene that increases the risk of both Alzheimer's disease and severe Covid-19. The study found that a specific variant of the OAS1 gene amplifies inflammation in the brain, highlighting the importance of the immune system in both conditions.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalBrain·TypeObservational study·DateOct 7, 2021
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.

Protease shows promise as feed additive for poultry farming

A new study found that a subtilisin-like proteinase from Bacillus pumilus 3-19 exhibits proteolytic activity in Pichia pastoris, dependent on incubation time and signal peptide choice. The production of this enzyme makes the system promising for developing new feed additives for animal husbandry.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalBioNanoScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 24, 2021

Physiological stressors triggering disease in the heart

A recent study published at Masonic Medical Research Institute found that electrocution-induced physiological stress can lead to overlapping cardiac conditions in individuals. The research used human induced pluripotent stem cells to investigate the mechanisms behind these conditions, shedding light on potential new treatments.

SourceMasonic Medical Research Institute·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateSep 22, 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.

How proteins help yeast adapt to changing conditions

A recent study published in eLife has discovered that prions, proteins known for their involvement in disease, may play a role in helping yeast cells cope with rapidly changing environmental conditions. The research found that prions can transform cell growth and survival, suggesting a new form of epigenetic control.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateSep 21, 2021

Researchers use exosome-based strategy to block HIV in mice

Researchers used exosomes to deliver a novel anti-HIV protein into infected mouse cells, silencing HIV replication and reducing its presence in the bone marrow, spleen, and brain. The treatment shows promise for future delivery methods for HIV and other brain diseases.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 21, 2021

Better in pairs: Proteins can help each other bind to DNA

Researchers found that Atf1 and Rst2 transcription factors reciprocally bind to DNA in fission yeast cells responding to glucose scarcity. This unique mechanism prevents both proteins from binding alone and integrates independent activation pathways.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 11, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Novel mechanism links genetic defect in IBD patients to gut leakiness

A UC Riverside-led study identifies how loss-of-function mutations in the gene PTPN2 affect intestinal epithelial cells' ability to maintain a barrier. The researchers found that increased fluid loss and diarrhea are linked to the mutation, which can be reversed by treating cells with synthetic matriptase.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 2021

A single gene can disrupt the sleep-wake cycle

A UNIGE team has identified the Nf1 gene as essential for regulating the sleep-wake cycles of Drosophila. This discovery could help explain symptoms of neurofibromatosis, including sleep disturbance, and may provide new insights into the circadian rhythm.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·TypeNews article·DateSep 1, 2021
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.

Oncotarget: RNA expression differences between Black and White Americans

Researchers discovered downregulated immune responses and upregulated T cell-exhaustion pathways in African American patients compared to European Americans. These findings suggest striking differences in immunoregulatory gene activities that may contribute to the worse prognosis of prostate cancer in Black Americans.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateAug 30, 2021

Teaching an old dog new tricks: An existing drug opens new possibilities for treating child leukemia

A study from Linköping University found that the tumour-inhibiting gene TET2 is silenced in most cases of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in children. The gene can be reactivated by treatment with an existing drug, 5-azacytidine, suggesting a targeted therapy for ALL in children.

SourceLinköping University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 24, 2021
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 technique illuminates DNA helix

Researchers have developed a new method to measure DNA torsional stiffness, which can impact how cells work. The technique provides insights into the biological implications of twist-induced phase transitions in DNA.

SourceCornell University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 11, 2021
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.

The Equalizer: An engineered circuit for uniform gene expression

Researchers have engineered a new genetic circuit called Equalizers to buffer protein output from variations in gene dosage. This allows for consistent protein expression, crucial for studying proteins and understanding their functions. The innovation combines two types of gene dosage compensation circuits, improving overall performanc...

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 12, 2021
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.

Study finds genes role in immune response of Florida corals to rapidly spreading disease

A new study by University of Miami researchers documents how coral genes respond to stony coral tissue loss disease, a rapidly spreading disease killing corals in Florida and the Caribbean. The study found that a network of genes important for cell death, immunity, and tissue rearrangement are triggered in response to the disease.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateJul 5, 2021

Alternate-day intermittent fasting leads to less fat loss than traditional daily energy restriction

A new study suggests that alternate-day intermittent fasting may offer no unique health benefits over a standard daily diet. In contrast, traditional daily energy restriction resulted in greater weight and fat loss. The researchers note that longer studies with larger groups are needed to confirm these findings.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 16, 2021
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.

Study shows how fungi and bacteria can activate genes associated with head and neck cancer

Researchers discovered that metabolites from fungi and bacteria biofilms can modulate gene expression associated with tumor growth and survival. The study found that these microorganisms can endanger homeostasis in normal and neoplastic oral epithelial cells, impairing cell viability and survival.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·DateMay 25, 2021

How clownfish gain their stripes

Clownfish develop white stripes during metamorphosis, with varying rates of formation depending on the sea anemone host. Thyroid hormone influences white bar development, with higher concentrations leading to more bars and earlier development.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021

A protein modification of MECP2 can convey neuroprotection under inflammation

Researchers discovered that phosphorylation of MECP2 protein decreases in brain cells as Alzheimer's disease progresses, while abolishing this phosphorylation enhances neuronal viability and gene expression. The study suggests that modifications of MECP2 could be a therapeutic target for developing specific therapies against AD.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalCells·DateMay 19, 2021

Diagramming the brain with colorful connections

Scientists at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have created a new tool called BARseq2 that uses genetic tags to label brain cells and trace thousands of brain circuits simultaneously. This allows researchers to examine the complex interactions between neurons, enabling a better understanding of brain function and behavior.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMay 10, 2021
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.

Investigating the role of Brd4 in diet-induced obesity

Researchers discovered that Brd4 plays a crucial role in diet-induced obesity by modulating lipid metabolism. In mice lacking Brd4, high-fat diets did not lead to obesity, indicating an alternative energy source was used instead of sugar.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalJCI Insight·DateMay 4, 2021

Thermal resilience of Red Sea corals

The study found that Red Sea corals can withstand temperatures up to 32°C without major gene expression changes, but 34.5°C is above the lethal limit for some species. The corals' resilient gene expression enhances their chances of survival in a warming world.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 3, 2021

Northern Red Sea corals pass heat stress test with flying colors

Northern Red Sea corals have been found to be resistant to higher temperatures due to their symbiotic algae and bacteria. The study reveals that these corals can withstand average temperatures up to 5°C higher than usual, offering hope for saving coral reef ecosystems.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 3, 2021
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.

Gene changes might explain long-haul COVID-19 symptoms

Researchers discovered that exposure to SARS-CoV-2 spike protein can cause persistent gene expression changes in airway cells, which may contribute to COVID long-hauler symptoms. The study's findings suggest a potential genetic basis for the lingering symptoms and could lead to personalized treatment approaches.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 27, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

UConn researcher develops successful Zika vaccine in preclinical studies

A UConn researcher has developed a successful Zika vaccine in preclinical studies using a novel platform technology. The vaccine, based on a viral vector and enhanced expression of the virus antigen, was found to mount a strong immune response and protect against Zika virus infection.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 1, 2021
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.

Retroviruses are re-writing the koala genome and causing cancer

Researchers discovered that retroviruses in koala genomes contribute to elevated cancer rates, with infected cells containing multiple copies of the virus. The study highlights the detrimental health consequences of germline infection by retroviruses and underscores the need for conservation efforts.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 26, 2021

Two new genes linked to Alzheimer's disease discovered

Researchers identified two new genes linked to Alzheimer's disease, PTPN9 and PCDHA4, in a study of gene expression in the hippocampus. The findings suggest that these genes contribute to the progression of the disease through pathways related to plaque formation and cell death.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateFeb 25, 2021
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.

Study reveals cause of common Zika virus birth defect

A new study published in Nature Microbiology reveals how Zika virus causes brain calcification, a common birth defect associated with prenatal infection. The research team identified the proteins BMP2 and NS3 as central players in the development of calcifications, suggesting novel strategies to prevent this birth defect.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJan 28, 2021

Sperm-specific gene expression in organisms including mice, macaques and men

Researchers discovered a large class of mammalian genes are not completely shared across spermatids, leading to uneven allele distribution and potential mechanisms for sperm-level natural selection. Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed 'genoinformative markers' that can act as selfish genetic elements.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 14, 2021

Multi-population risk scores could improve risk prediction for inflammatory bowel diseases, study finds

Researchers developed polygenic risk scores using genetic data from nearly 30,000 individuals, improving IBD predictions across European, Ashkenazi Jewish, Hispanic, and UK Biobank populations. Lower predictive power was seen in African ancestry due to smaller datasets and greater genetic diversity.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateDec 24, 2020
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.