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Defining chronic pain for high-performance athletes with disabilities

A new UBC Okanagan study emphasizes the importance of identifying and managing neuropathic pain in high-performance athletes with spinal cord injuries. The research stresses the need for sports medicine clinicians and trainers to use standardized assessment tools, including symptom-based questionnaires, to better understand and communi...

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalBMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 27, 2024
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.

New technology could help treat hearing loss more effectively

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati are developing a new technology using magnetic nanoparticles to deliver medications directly to the inner ear, where hearing loss occurs. The goal is to create an effective and minimally invasive treatment option for various types of hearing loss.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateAug 19, 2024

Rewriting the evolutionary history of critical components of the nervous system

A new study found that potassium ion channels in the Shaker family were present in single-cell organisms before the origin of the nervous system. This discovery challenges the conventional understanding of how these ion channels evolved alongside the nervous system.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 13, 2024

Pink elephants in the brain?

A study published in Neuron reveals that neurons are wired to connect seemingly unrelated concepts, enhancing the brain's ability to predict what we see based on past experiences. Visual experience influences the organisation of feedback projections, which store information about the world.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Breakthrough in tremor treatment: Robotic therapy developed by GIST researchers improves daily activities

Researchers at the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) have developed an innovative robotic rehabilitation system called SPINDLE to enhance the strength and dexterity of individuals with tremors. The study revealed significant benefits, including improved motor control, coordination, and neuroplasticity.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 27, 2024

Charting super-colorful brain wiring using an AI's super-human eye

Scientists at Kyushu University created QDyeFinder, an AI pipeline that untangles the dense neuronal networks in the brain. The system uses a super-multicolor labeling protocol to tag neurons and then automatically identifies their structure by matching similar color combinations.

SourceKyushu University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2024

How the brain is affected by Huntington’s Disease

Research finds that Huntington’s disease damages microscopic blood vessels in the brain, affecting coordination between neuronal activity and oxygenation. The study uses non-invasive measurement techniques to monitor disease progression and evaluate potential treatments.

SourceLancaster University·JournalBrain Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateJun 10, 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.

UMA scientists have modified the configuration parameters of “phantom sensations” so that they are perceived by individuals

Researchers at the University of Malaga have developed an instruction manual to understand the operating limits of phantom motion, allowing for cost-effective and lighter haptic devices. The study found that individuals can perceive phantom sensation when a vibrating point travels at least 20% of the separation between actuators.

SourceUniversity of Malaga·JournalDisplays·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 29, 2024

Older brain cells linger unexpectedly before their death

Researchers discovered that mature oligodendrocytes, critical for brain function, can survive for up to 45 days after a fatal trauma, defying the classical programmed cell-death pathway. This finding opens new avenues for understanding and potentially preventing damage caused by aging and neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 28, 2024

Bees use antennae to decode hive mates’ dances in the dark

Researchers discovered how honeybees interpret dances that relay directions to food, even in complete darkness. By analyzing bee movements and antennae signals, scientists found a neural mechanism that combines sensory data from the two systems.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 25, 2024
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.

Smelling danger in the water: Schreckstoff mystery solved after 86 years!

Researchers have solved the long-standing question of what triggers the alarm response in fish by identifying two distinct chemical signals: Daniol sulphate and Ostariopterin. These substances convey separate pieces of information that must be detected simultaneously to trigger a flight-or-freeze response.

SourceRIKEN·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 17, 2024

Challenging the traditional views on how the brain processes movement and sensation

A study by Fujita Health University researchers unveiled novel insights into the brain's processing of movement and sensation. The findings suggest that signals from motor cortices do not primarily modulate sensory responses in primary sensory cortices, but rather pathways from secondary somatosensory cortex (S2) and sensory thalamus (...

SourceFujita Health University·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2024

RSV shown to infect nerve cells, cause inflammation and damage

A new study reveals that Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) can infect nerve cells, trigger inflammation, and cause nerve damage. RSV was previously thought to only infect the respiratory tract, but this finding suggests a potential link between the virus and neurological symptoms in children.

SourceTulane University·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateJan 9, 2024

Growth hormone influences regulation of anxiety via a specific group of neurons

Growth hormone influences regulation of anxiety via a specific group of neurons, according to researchers at the University of São Paulo. The study identified somatostatin-expressing neurons as key players in modulating GH's anxiolytic effect, with increased anxiety observed in mice lacking these neurons.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJNeurosci·DateJan 2, 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.

Repairing nerve cells after injury and in chronic disease

Researchers at Salk Institute uncover a mechanism for repairing damaged nerves during peripheral neuropathy, with protein Mitf playing a key role. The findings have the potential to inspire novel therapeutics that bolster repair function and heal peripheral neuropathy.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 28, 2023

Extreme sports: How body and mind interact

A study published by Vienna University of Technology analyzed the effects of extreme physical and mental stress on a rowing athlete's body. The research found that the variability in heart rate, sleep quality, and regeneration during sleep phases were closely related to the athlete's psychological condition.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·TypeCase study·DateOct 10, 2023

Pumped for frigid weather: study pinpoints cold adaptations in nervous system of Antarctic octopus

Researchers have pinpointed the crucial changes in a membrane protein that allow Antarctic octopuses to function normally in freezing temperatures. By swapping specific amino acids, scientists discovered three key modifications that together enable the pump to work efficiently, allowing the octopus's nervous system to adapt and thrive.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 2, 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.

Jellyfish are smarter than you think

Caribbean box jellyfish have demonstrated complex learning capabilities, including associative learning and memory formation, despite having only one thousand nerve cells. This discovery sheds new light on the evolutionary success of jellyfish and raises questions about the universality of advanced learning mechanisms in animals.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 22, 2023

Research led by the US and IBiS identifies a new cell type that is key in the development of memory and learning

Researchers have identified a new cell type, ARG1+ microglia, involved in brain development and function during early postnatal stages. This discovery sheds light on the role of microglia in neural systems and their potential link to neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeObservational study·DateAug 30, 2023

Nerve cells in the brain can halt all movement in the body – even breathing

Researchers have discovered a group of nerve cells in the midbrain that can completely stop all forms of movement and slow down breathing and heart rate when stimulated. The study provides valuable insight into how the nervous system controls movement and may help understand Parkinson's disease.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2023

A Chinese Neurosurgical Journal study presents consensus on the management of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage-related hydrocephalus

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage-related hydrocephalus is a complex syndrome that can lead to cognitive impairment and neurological damage. The new consensus guideline recommends standard-of-care approaches, including history review, head CT scans, and medications or surgical interventions to manage excessive intracranial pressure.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Neurosurgical Journal·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 12, 2023

Masters of acclimation: Octopuses adjust to cold by editing their RNA

Researchers have discovered that octopuses and cephalopods use RNA editing to rapidly respond to environmental temperature changes. By tweaking their protein function, these animals can acclimate to cold water, but not rapid changes. The study reveals a unique mechanism of genetic adaptation in these species.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2023
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.

Iron is an important regulator of neurodifferentiation

This study found that iron deficiency impairs neural differentiation, leading to reduced Pax6- and Sox2-positive neuronal precursor cells and Tuj1 fibers. Iron supplementation restores normal differentiation, suggesting ferrodifferentiation as a new therapeutic approach for neurological diseases.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·DateApr 24, 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.

UCF researchers create digital map of sympathetic nervous system

A team of UCF College of Medicine researchers created a digital topographical map of the cardiac sympathetic neural network, controlling heart rate and 'fight-or-flight' response. The map will guide treatments like neuromodulation therapy for hypertension, sleep apnea, and heart failure.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 17, 2023

Aging | Age-related methylation changes in the human sperm epigenome

Researchers identified over 1,000 genes with age-related methylation changes in human sperm. These changes are associated with increased offspring disease susceptibility for neurodevelopmental disorders. The study found no correlation between paternal BMI or semen quality and age-related methylation changes.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2023

Signal transmission in the immune and nervous system through NEMO

The study reveals that NEMO forms biomolecular condensates with ubiquitin chains to activate NF-κB signaling, facilitating rapid regulation of cellular responses. A pathogenic mutation in the NEMO gene inhibits this process, leading to a disease characterized by skin abnormalities and neurological symptoms.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalLife Science Alliance·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2023
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.

Socialness is in the eye of the beholder

A new Dartmouth study uses a subjective approach to investigate how people perceive social interactions. The results show that the brain responds more strongly to information interpreted as social versus non-social, highlighting humans' tendency to see social connections.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2022

New blood test can detect ‘toxic’ protein years before Alzheimer’s symptoms emerge, study shows

A new laboratory test can measure levels of amyloid beta oligomers in blood samples, detecting toxic proteins up to years before cognitive impairment. The test, SOBA, has shown promising results in identifying individuals at risk or incubating Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 5, 2022

Unraveling the reward behavior: mechanisms underlying the dopamine signaling pathway

A team of researchers identified a protein kinase substrate downstream of the dopamine signaling pathway regulating brain reward behavior. The study found that phosphorylation of potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily Q member 2 (KCNQ2) decreases its channel activity, increasing neuronal excitability and promoting reward behavior.

SourceFujita Health University·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 2022
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.

Into the brain of comb jellies: Scientists explore the evolution of neurons

A new study reveals key clues about the form of the most ancestral nervous system and how it first evolved. Researchers found that neurons, possibly the most complicated cell type ever to evolve, share similar structures with comb jellies and other ancient animal lineages.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 8, 2022

An effective new treatment for chronic back pain targets the nervous system

A new treatment has shown clinically meaningful effects on pain intensity and disability, with participants reporting improved quality of life and long-term benefits. The sensorimotor retraining approach alters how people think about their body in pain and normalizes communication between the back and brain.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 2, 2022

Electrical stimulation improves arm control in paralyzed monkeys

Researchers developed a technology that uses surviving neurons to restore connection between brain and arm via specific stimulation pulses to the spinal cord. This allowed macaque monkeys with partial arm paralysis to improve precision, force, and range of movement in their arms.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2022
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.

Eating sea squirts may reverse the signs of ageing, study shows

A new study suggests that supplementing a diet with Ascidiacea, also known as sea squirts, reverses some main signs of aging in animal models. The researchers found that plasmalogens, vital to body processes, decrease with age and contribute to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalFrontiers in Molecular Biosciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022
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.

Discovery could help finetune immunity to fight infections, disease

Scientists at Washington State University have discovered a novel theory that the innate immune system can respond differently to specific pathogens. This quality, known as immunological specificity, is driven by the nervous system and could provide a basis for finetuning an experimental treatment to fight infection.

SourceWashington State University·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2022

Meat, MS and the microbiome

A study by UConn Health and Washington University School of Medicine found that eating more meat correlates with worse MS symptoms, altered gut bacteria, and increased immune cells. The research identified key bacteria and metabolites associated with the disease, providing new insights into its causes.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalEBioMedicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2022
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.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: the role of the circular RNA

Researchers have identified a new molecular component of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) pathological aggregates, a circular RNA called circ-Hdgfrp3. This circular RNA plays a crucial role in the formation and progression of ALS, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target.

SourceIstituto Italiano di Tecnologia - IIT·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2021

Old habit-controlling neurons may also help the brain learn new tricks

Researchers discovered that a brain area traditionally thought to specialize in old habits also plays a role in learning new actions. The study found that the dorsolateral striatum is involved in consolidating action learning immediately after the new action has been learned.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 26, 2021

Rare Cambrian fossils from Utah reveal unexpected anatomical complexity in early comb jellies

Researchers describe two new species of fossil ctenophores from Utah with preserved nervous systems and up to 24 comb rows. These findings suggest that Cambrian ctenophores had more complex nervous systems than living species, with specific nerve tracks along the body and a ring around the mouth.

SourceHarvard University, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology·JournaliScience·DateAug 20, 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.

Unusual prey: Spiders eating snakes

Researchers found that spiders from 11 different families can catch and eat snakes, including species up to one meter in length. The venom of these spiders also has a similar effect on snake nervous systems as it does on humans.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalJournal of Arachnology·DateJun 28, 2021

Key factor identified that makes worms feel full after a good meal

Researchers found that SKN-1B controls behaviors like foraging, eating and resting in nematode worms, which may regulate food-sensing and fullness in humans. The study proposes a similar transcription factor, Nrfs, as a potential target for developing drugs controlling overeating.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 4, 2021

How giant unicellular slime molds encode memories

Researchers observed that giant unicellular slime molds change tube diameters in response to nutrient sources, imprinted in the hierarchy of thinner and thicker tubes. This reorganization persists for up to 30 minutes before the organism migrates toward the nutrient source, suggesting a mechanism for memory formation.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 22, 2021