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NUS Medicine pioneers ground-breaking technique to deliver drugs directly to the brain

Scientists at NUS Medicine have developed a novel approach using nasal bacteria to deliver therapeutic molecules directly to the brain, reducing appetite and improving glucose metabolism in preclinical studies. The engineered bacteria leverage the olfactory mucosa's unique properties to deliver medication with enhanced bioavailability.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalCell·DateFeb 17, 2025
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.

Improving blood transfusion monitoring in critical care patients: Insights from diffuse optics

A recent study investigated hybrid diffuse optics to monitor changes in blood flow and oxygen levels noninvasively. The technology provided detailed insights into how oxygen is delivered and utilized in the body, suggesting improved outcomes for critically ill patients undergoing red blood cell transfusions.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalBiophotonics Discovery·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2025

Researchers map the brain's self-healing abilities after stroke

A new study from the University of Southern Denmark reveals that the brain's self-healing abilities are hindered by inflammation after a stroke. The researchers mapped specific cells that play a central role in rebuilding myelin, but found gender differences in how men and women respond to injuries.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark Faculty of Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Pathology·DateJan 24, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

AI innovation unlocks non-surgical way to detect brain cancer spread

Researchers developed an AI model to detect brain cancer spread in surrounding tissue using MRI scans, showing 85-per-cent accuracy. This non-surgical method offers insights into patients' cancer without aggressive surgery, potentially improving treatment and survival.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNeuro-Oncology Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 14, 2025

UTHealth Houston study reveals two new genes associated with variants linked to epilepsy, offering new hope for personalized therapies

Researchers at UTHealth Houston have discovered two novel genes, DYRK1A and EGFR, linked to genetic mutations causing epileptic brain lesions. This breakthrough offers a new framework for understanding epilepsy and developing targeted therapies.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateJan 6, 2025

Hydrogel-based soft bioelectronics for personalized healthcare

Researchers develop strategies to address mechanical and electrical properties, implantation, and multimodal functionality in hydrogel-based bioelectronics. The team explores conductive polymers, stimuli-responsive hydrogels, and wearable/implantable devices to create seamless human-body interfaces.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalMed-X·DateJan 5, 2025
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.

Epigenetic clocks reveal biological age at cell-type resolution

Researchers developed a new tool to measure biological aging in individual cell types, providing insights into diseases like Alzheimer's and liver pathologies. The study found that certain brain cells and liver cells show signs of accelerated aging, making it a better tool for detecting diseases.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeNews article·DateJan 2, 2025

Breakthrough in treatment approach showing promise in the fight against glioblastoma, the deadliest and most aggressive type of brain cancer

A phase 2 study conducted by Mayo Clinic found that 56% of participants were alive after 12 months, with a median overall survival of 13.1 months. The treatment, which combines short-course hypofractionated proton beam therapy with advanced imaging techniques, was more effective in patients over 65 with favorable tumor genetics.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateDec 16, 2024

Why deep sleep is helpful for memory

The study found that slow electrical waves during deep sleep strengthen synaptic connections and make the neocortex more receptive to information. This enhances memory formation by creating a state of elevated readiness in the cortex.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 12, 2024

Brain tumors hijack circadian clock to grow

Glioblastoma brain tumors synchronize their growth with the daily release of steroid hormones like cortisol, according to new research. Blocking these signals slows tumor growth and disease progression in animal models.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalCancer Cell·DateDec 12, 2024

The distinct nerve wiring of human memory

Researchers uncover human hippocampal CA3 region's unique neural connectivity and synaptic properties. The team found that the human CA3 network codes information efficiently to maximize associations and memory storage, with sparser connections and more reliable synapses compared to mouse models.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 11, 2024
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.

To remember conversations, keep making new brain cells

A USC-led study found that neurogenesis in adults supports verbal learning and memory, enabling people to have conversations. The discovery could lead to new approaches to restore cognitive function in patients with epilepsy and other conditions.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalCell Stem Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 5, 2024

Study reveals lasting effects of common herbicide on brain health

A new study reveals that glyphosate exposure in mice can cause lasting brain inflammation and accelerate Alzheimer's disease-like pathology, even after a significant pause from exposure. The herbicide's byproducts have been found to accumulate in brain tissue, raising serious concerns about its safety for human populations.

SourceArizona State University·JournalJournal of Neuroinflammation·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 4, 2024

Brain test shows that crabs process pain

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have conducted a groundbreaking study on shore crabs, revealing that they possess pain receptors and neural reactions in response to painful stimuli. The findings provide conclusive evidence for the existence of pain in crustaceans, highlighting the need for more humane treatment methods.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalBiology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 26, 2024
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.

New method reveals DNA methylation in ancient tissues, unlocking secrets of human evolution

A novel method has been developed to infer DNA methylation patterns in non-skeletal tissues from ancient specimens, providing new insights into human evolution. The study found over 1,850 sites of differential methylation specifically in prefrontal cortex neurons, linked to genes crucial for brain development.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 20, 2024

Seeing memories form

Researchers studied mossy fiber synapses in the hippocampus, a crucial region for memory formation and spatial navigation. They discovered that specific proteins play key roles in encoding and processing distinguishing features to trigger memory retrieval.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 20, 2024
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.

We could soon use AI to detect brain tumors

Researchers have trained AI models to distinguish brain tumors from healthy tissue using convolutional neural networks and transfer learning. The models achieved an average accuracy of 85.99% at detecting brain cancer, with the ability to generate images showing specific areas in its tumor-positive or negative classification.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalBiology Methods and Protocols·TypeContent analysis·DateNov 19, 2024

How optogenetics can put the brakes on epilepsy seizures

Scientists have successfully used optogenetics to control seizure activity in living human brain tissue, opening doors to new treatments for epilepsy and other neurological diseases. By switching off specific neurons with light pulses, researchers can prevent seizures from occurring, providing a less invasive alternative to surgery.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateNov 15, 2024

Age on the molecular level: showing changes through proteins

Researchers have created a comprehensive database of protein changes in mice tissues due to aging, providing new insights into age-related diseases. The study reveals proteins that increase with age and improve understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying aging.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2024
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.

Closing in on Parkinson’s Disease proteins in extracellular vesicles in the blood

Researchers have developed a new protocol to exclusively access and quantify proteins carried by extracellular vesicles in the blood. This breakthrough may lead to early diagnosis of Parkinson's disease and other brain disorders, providing treatment opportunities before symptoms appear.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2024

Study explores how traumatic brain injury (TBI) may be linked to Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers found TBI increases hyperphosphorylated tau, astro- and microgliosis, synaptic dysfunction and cognitive impairments linked to developing Alzheimer’s. BAG3 overexpression ameliorates tau hyperphosphorylation, synaptic dysfunction and cognitive deficits through the enhancement of the autophagy-lysosome pathway.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalActa Neuropathologica·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2024

The mystery of human wrinkles: what do the cells say?

A research team has successfully recreated wrinkle structures in biological tissue in vitro, revealing the mechanisms behind their formation. The study found that compressive forces and dehydration play a crucial role in wrinkle formation, mirroring aging skin effects.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 19, 2024

New photoacoustic probes enable deep brain tissue imaging, with the potential to report on neuronal activity and enable better understanding of brain function

Researchers have developed novel photoacoustic probes for neuroscience applications, enabling visualization of neurons in specific brain regions. The probes use a combination of protein and synthetic dye to bind to chemicals and emit sound waves that can be detected by imaging equipment.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 27, 2024
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.

New microscope offers faster, high-resolution brain imaging

Researchers developed a new two-photon fluorescence microscope that captures high-speed images of neural activity at cellular resolution, providing insights into brain function and neurological diseases. The microscope uses an adaptive sampling scheme to image neurons in real time, reducing damage to brain tissue.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateAug 15, 2024
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.

Mayo Clinic scientists define new type of memory loss in older adults

Mayo Clinic scientists have established criteria for a memory-loss syndrome in older adults that specifically impacts the brain's limbic system. The syndrome, called Limbic-predominant Amnestic Neurodegenerative Syndrome (LANS), progresses more slowly and has a better prognosis than Alzheimer's disease.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalBrain Communications·DateJul 17, 2024

New technique could help treat aggressive brain tumors

Researchers have developed a new technique called burst sine wave electroporation (B-SWE) that can disrupt the blood-brain barrier around brain tumors without causing significant damage to healthy tissue. This method shows promise for treating aggressive brain cancers like glioblastoma, which currently have limited treatment options.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalAPL Bioengineering·DateJul 17, 2024

Seeing inside Alzheimer’s disease brain

Researchers have determined the structure of molecules within an Alzheimer's disease brain for the first time using cryo-electron tomography and fluorescence microscopy. This study revealed the molecular structure of tau protein and its arrangement with amyloid plaques, providing new insights into the pathology of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateJul 11, 2024

Mount Sinai study reveals significant differences in RNA editing between postmortem and living human brain

Researchers found major differences between postmortem and living prefrontal cortex brain tissues, with higher levels of RNA editing in postmortem tissues. These discoveries will shape the development of diagnostics and therapies for brain diseases, highlighting the need to study both living and postmortem samples.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 28, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Global consensus for sarcopenia

A new global definition of sarcopenia is proposed, aiming to unify research and clinical practice. The definition may help identify low muscle mass or strength in older people, increasing the risk of poor outcomes such as fragility and disability.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 26, 2024

Leveraging gold nanostars for precision laser interstitial thermal therapy

Researchers have developed procedures for using gold nanostars to perform more efficient, conformal, and safe laser ablations for treating brain tumors. This technique addresses limitations in traditional LITT by providing improved precision for lesions greater than 3 cm or with complex shapes.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 24, 2024

How does oxygen depletion disrupt memory formation in the brain?

Scientists at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology identify a positive glutamate-NO-glutamate feedback loop that blocks long-term potentiation and impairs learning and memory. The study suggests that this loop may explain memory loss in stroke patients and potentially offer a solution for treatment.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2024
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.

Microscope system sharpens scientists’ view of neural circuit connections

A new microscopy system called mosTF enables fast and clear imaging of the living brain, improving tracking of rapid changes in neural circuit structure. The system outperforms traditional two-photon microscopy methods by eight times speed and four-fold signal clarity.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 4, 2024

Scientists map networks regulating gene function in the human brain

Researchers create largest and most advanced multidimensional maps of gene regulation networks in the brains of people with and without mental disorders. The study uses postmortem brain tissue from over 2,500 donors to map gene regulation networks across different stages of brain development and multiple brain-related disorders.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 23, 2024

Very early blood pressure control confers both benefits and harms in acute stroke

A new study found that very early blood pressure lowering treatment can improve outcomes for patients with intracerebral hemorrhage, but worsen outcomes for those with ischemic stroke. Rapid diagnosis of the type of stroke is crucial in harnessing the benefits of this treatment.

SourceGeorge Institute for Global Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 16, 2024

Using MRI, engineers have found a way to detect light deep in the brain

MIT engineers create technique to image bioluminescent molecules in deep tissue with high resolution, enabling detailed studies of brain cell development and communication. The method uses engineered blood vessels that dilate in response to light, allowing researchers to pinpoint the source of light.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateMay 10, 2024
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.

A fragment of human brain, mapped

A team of Harvard researchers, led by Jeff Lichtman, has created the largest synaptic-resolution, 3D reconstruction of a piece of human brain to date. The dataset contains 1,400 terabytes of data on neural connections in a tiny piece of human temporal cortex.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 9, 2024

Association between neighborhood deprivation and DNA methylation in an autopsy cohort

Researchers found a significant association between neighborhood deprivation and DNA methylation in brain tissue, which may be linked to immune response. The study identified one CpG site (cg26514961, PLXNC1 gene) significantly associated with neighborhood deprivation after controlling for covariates.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 9, 2024

Four state-of-the-art, artificial intelligence search engines for histopathology images may not be ready for clinical use

Research suggests that four proposed AI search engines for automating search and retrieval of digital histopathology slides have inadequate performance for routine clinical care. The algorithms showed less than 50% accuracy in some cases, highlighting the need for rigorous external validations and standardization before clinical adoption.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNEJM AI·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 2, 2024
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.

Are lab-grown brain tissues ethical? There is no no-brainer answer

Researchers at Hiroshima University explore the ethics of growing brain organoids from human fetal brain cells, highlighting concerns over consciousness, informed consent, and medical applications. The study emphasizes the need for a global regulatory framework to navigate the complex ethical landscape of fetal brain organoid research.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalEMBO Reports·DateApr 8, 2024

Fuelling nerve cell function and plasticity

Researchers at University of Cologne's CECAD Cluster of Excellence discovered that mitochondrial fusion boosts new neuron plasticity. The study found that as new neurons mature, their mitochondria fuse to acquire elongated shapes, sustaining synaptic plasticity and refining brain circuits.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNeuron·DateApr 5, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Imaging deep brain activity with microprisms

Scientists use microprisms to track neuronal activity over multiple days with high resolution and throughput, gaining insights into how the brain adapts and changes over time.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalNeurophotonics·TypeObservational study·DateMar 26, 2024

Study finds high prevalence of hidden brain changes in people with heart disease

Researchers discovered changes to blood vessels in the brain that can increase stroke and dementia risk are common in people with heart conditions. The study confirms heart disease as a main cause of these changes, highlighting the importance of imaging tests to guide safer treatment choices.

SourceGeorge Institute for Global Health·JournalNeurology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 26, 2024

Repairing patients’ dura more durably

Researchers have developed a new dural repair solution using a multi-functional biomaterial that addresses key limitations of current methods. The 'Dural Tough Adhesive' (DTA) performed better than currently used surgical sealants in tests using animal models and human-derived tissues.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 20, 2024

Study identifies molecular alterations in brain tissue and blood of people who committed suicide

Researchers analyzed molecular data from brain tissue and blood of individuals who committed suicide, identifying risk markers for novel therapeutic targets. The study found alterations in the prefrontal cortex and inhibitory neurotransmitters, highlighting potential new approaches for preventing suicidal behavior.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPsychiatry Research·DateMar 14, 2024
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.