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Brain’s reward system may be about energy, not pleasure, study finds

A new study proposes that the brain's reward system is built to optimize energy, not pleasure. Researchers argue that dopamine and opioids function as physiological agents to manage the body's energetic budget, guiding behavior and learning.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNeuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 16, 2026

Pennington Biomedical researchers explore factors behind body’s ability to regulate weight

Pennington Biomedical researchers investigated competing body weight regulation models, analyzing the interaction of energy intake and expenditure. The study highlights the need to test state-of-the-art technology and could help explain why losing weight is challenging for some individuals.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·JournalNature Reviews Endocrinology·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 13, 2026
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.

Researchers identify Tapt1 gene as essential maintainer of protein synthesis and brain development

Researchers have identified Tapt1 as a key gene in maintaining the balance between protein synthesis and degradation, crucial for normal brain development. The study reveals that Tapt1, along with its partner Suco, ensures proper neural stem cell proliferation and differentiation.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2025

From cellular balance to clinical breakthroughs: a comprehensive review of ROS homeostasis

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis is essential for cellular survival and physiological functions. The review discusses its biological significance, potential clinical applications, and regulatory mechanisms underlying ROS homeostasis. Dysregulation of ROS homeostasis is a common pathogenic mechanism driving disease development.

SourceSichuan International Medical Exchange and Promotion Association·JournalMolecular Biomedicine·DateOct 30, 2025

Even boneless insects have an endocrine system for calcium control

Researchers at the University of Tsukuba identified a peptide hormone called Capa that regulates calcium levels in fruit flies. The study found that Capa is secreted by specific neurons and acts on organs similar to vertebrate kidneys to mobilize calcium from stored reserves.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalNature·DateOct 26, 2025
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 insights into cholesterol metabolism regulation illuminate therapies for cardiometabolic and neurodegenerative diseases

Recent discoveries on the molecular regulation of cholesterol metabolism have far-reaching implications for human diseases. Four interconnected modules of cholesterol metabolism are outlined, including hepatic de novo synthesis, intestinal absorption, and reverse transport via HDL.

SourceSichuan International Medical Exchange and Promotion Association·JournalMolecular Biomedicine·DateOct 23, 2025

Study links shift work to higher risk of kidney stones, influenced by lifestyle factors

A study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that shift workers have a 15% higher risk of developing kidney stones, especially younger workers and those with low levels of manual labor. Lifestyle factors such as BMI, fluid intake, and smoking habits significantly contribute to the occurrence of kidney stones.

SourceElsevier·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 1, 2025

Blocking protein control pathway slows rhabdomyosarcoma growth in mice

Researchers discovered that disrupting protein quality control slows tumor growth in rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer primarily affecting children. The treatment, which targets the proteostasis network, significantly slowed or stopped tumor growth in mice implanted with human RMS tumors.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeNews article·DateAug 29, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Experts urge shift in heatwave strategy to save lives

Heat-related deaths are projected to rise four-fold by 2050 if global temperatures reach 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. Experts recommend a physiology-based approach that focuses on hot people, using tools like HeatWatch, to enhance heat adaptation and minimize carbon intensity.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 6, 2025
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.

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.

Nuclear lipid droplets: Key regulators of aging and nuclear homeostasis

The accumulation of nuclear lipid droplets (nLDs) is linked to metabolic conditions such as fatty liver disease, obesity-related disorders, and premature aging. Lifestyle interventions like caloric restriction can reduce nLD buildup, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for slowing cellular aging.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeNews article·DateJan 7, 2025

The aquaporin-4 inhibitor, N-(1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)-3-pyridinecarboxamide, inhibits the glymphatic system

A study investigated the effects of N-(1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)-3-pyridinecarboxamide (TGN-020), a selective AQP4 inhibitor, on glymphatic function. The results showed that acute inhibition of AQP4 significantly impaired glymphatic function without inducing short-term behavioral abnormalities in mice.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalExploratory Research and Hypothesis in Medicine·DateDec 20, 2024

Unraveling the neural circuitry behind stress-induced respiratory changes

Studies have shown that the lateral habenula regulates stress-related respiratory responses via the monoaminergic system, which includes dopaminergic and serotoninergic pathways. Researchers found that electrical stimulation of the LHb mimicked a stress state in rats, significantly increasing respiratory frequency.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalPflügers Archiv - European Journal of Physiology·DateDec 10, 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.

The imbalance of homeostasis in neutrophil extracellular traps is associated with portal vein thrombosis in patients with decompensated cirrhosis

Researchers found that imbalances in neutrophil extracellular traps are associated with portal vein thrombosis in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. High histone-DNA levels and low DNase activity were identified as independent risk factors for PVT.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateNov 11, 2024

Study shows that Rett syndrome in females is not just less severe, but different

Researchers found that female mouse models of Rett syndrome have a mosaic-like distribution of cells expressing wild-type and mutant MeCP2 protein, leading to dysregulated genes. The study also discovered an unusual disease progression, with females having more dysregulated genes at the pre-symptomatic stage than later on.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2024

Erk5 and its potential applications in cancer treatment

Researchers explore Extracellular signal-regulated kinase 5 (Erk5) and its unique structures regulating autophosphorylation and transcription. Erk5 is involved in angiogenesis, neurogenesis, energy metabolism, tumor growth, and metastasis, making it a potential target for cancer treatment.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncoscience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 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.

Protein responsible for genetic inflammatory disease identified

A team of researchers has discovered the role a specific protein complex plays in certain forms of immune dysregulation. SHARPIN deficiency is linked to autoinflammation and immunodeficiency, but unexpectedly does not manifest dermatological issues. Treatment with anti-TNF therapies resolves symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Immunology·DateApr 29, 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.

Study unveils a role of mitochondria in dietary fat processing

A recent study published in Nature reveals that mitochondrial dysfunction disrupts dietary lipid processing in enterocytes, leading to abnormal fat accumulation and impaired nutrient delivery. The findings provide new insights into the gastrointestinal symptoms of mitochondrial disease and may lead to novel therapeutic approaches.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2023

New research shows how important protein keeps our cell membranes in balance

A study published in Nature Communications sheds light on the critical role of P4-ATPases, particularly ATP8B1-CDC50A, in maintaining lipid asymmetry in cell membranes. The research team used cryo-electron microscopy to determine the structure and function of the human flippase complex, revealing its regulation by phosphoinositides.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 5, 2023
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.

AMP biosynthesis key to longevity and metabolic health in vertebrates

A recent study led by Dr. Itamar Harel reveals that manipulating AMP biosynthesis can extend lifespan and promote metabolic health in vertebrates. The research used the turquoise killifish as a model organism and found remarkable effects on energy metabolism, including a fasting-like profile and enhanced resistance to high-fat diets.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2023

Selenium as a predictor of metabolic syndrome in middle age women

Researchers found that higher selenium levels were associated with lower blood pressure and HDL concentration in middle-aged women. The study suggests that selenium may moderate the effect of genetic variants on MetS components, such as waist circumference.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeObservational study·DateApr 12, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Cited1 links sex and metabolic hormones to protect against obesity

Researchers at Helmholtz Munich discovered a new protein called Cited1 that plays a crucial role in regulating energy homeostasis and sensitivity to satiety hormones. The study found that females are better protected against obesity due to their higher levels of estrogens, which regulate energy metabolism through the hypothalamus.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMar 7, 2023

Autophagy: The molecular regulation of self-eating

A team of researchers has identified a molecular switch that regulates autophagy in plants, bridging two quality control pathways. The study reveals that this regulatory mechanism is conserved in eukaryotes and essential for preventing cells from 'eating' healthy cellular components.

SourceGregor Mendel Institute of Molecular Plant Biology·JournalThe EMBO Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 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.

New mathematical model shows how the body regulates potassium

A new mathematical model simulates how the body regulates potassium levels, shedding light on the relationship between kidneys and muscles. The study suggests that muscle-kidney cross-talk signal hypothesis is essential in maintaining healthy potassium homeostasis.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJan 30, 2023

Flip-flopping cholesterol in the cell membrane

Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered a vital role of two proteins, ABCA1 and Aster-A, in maintaining the asymmetric distribution of cholesterol within cells. This process allows for selective control over substances entering and leaving cells.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022

Antiviral defense regulates intestinal function and overall gut health

Researchers discovered that RNA interference, a viral defence mechanism, also prevents overproduction of body's own proteins in intestinal cells, promoting ER quality control. This interplay is crucial for maintaining protein balance and overall intestinal health.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Cell Biology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 7, 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.

Aging | IGF1 gene therapy in middle-aged female rats delays reproductive senescence through its effects on hypothalamic GnRH and kisspeptin neurons

Researchers found that IGF1 gene therapy increases kisspeptin expression and GnRH release, and alters microglial cell numbers, suggesting a potential protective effect against reproductive decline. This could lead to new strategies for optimizing lifespan and combating age-related health problems in women.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 16, 2022

New cellular protective mechanism discovered

Scientists at the University of Tsukuba have identified a system to transport excess reactive sulfur species out of cells, maintaining redox homeostasis and preventing oxidative stress. This discovery opens new avenues for research into sulfur stress and related diseases.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalRedox Biology·DateOct 31, 2022

Oncoscience | SLFN11’s surveillance role in protein homeostasis

SLFN11 acts as a surveillance factor for protein homeostasis by alleviating proteotoxic stress derived from protein synthesis and maturation. Its lack makes cells vulnerable to anticancer drugs inducing ER and proteotoxic stress, leading to chemoresistance. SLFN11 is also involved in regulating immune response and inflammation.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncoscience·DateAug 3, 2022
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.

Double agents: How stomach stem cells change allegiance upon injury

A molecular switch, p57, enables stomach stem cells to change allegiance from normal digestion to injury response, potentially leading to new treatments for gastric pathologies. The study's findings suggest that p57 is a key regulator of reserve stem cell state in gastric chief cells.

SourceIMBA- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalCell Stem Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 2022

Bat box design, placement matter for energy balance in endangered bats

Research finds that bat box design and landscape placement significantly impact the energetic balance of endangered Indiana bats. A study by University of Illinois researchers tested five bat box designs and four landscape placements to determine their effects on bat metabolism, development, and survival.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalConservation Physiology·DateApr 27, 2022
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 clues about how a high-salt diet contributes to cardiometabolic diseases found deep in the brain

A new study suggests that a high-salt diet can lead to the hyperactivity of brain cells, resulting in increased constriction of blood vessels and worsening of cardiometabolic diseases. The research also found that excessive salt consumption can trigger an unusual response in which neurons become more active despite reduced blood flow.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateMar 22, 2022

Astrocyte networks in the mouse brain control spatial learning and memory

A study found that intact astrocyte networks are essential for neural homeostasis, synaptic plasticity, and spatial cognitive abilities in adult mice. Disrupting these networks impairs spatial learning and memory due to altered neuronal excitability and compromised synaptic transmission.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 8, 2022
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.

No time to nap in nature

A study on wild baboons reveals that they prioritize socializing and safety over sleep, even after poor sleep quality. The research used non-invasive technology to monitor sleep patterns across a group of individuals, showing that animals in the wild face competing demands that disrupt sleep homeostasis.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournaleLife·TypeObservational study·DateMar 1, 2022

Teaching robots to think like us

Researchers use physical reservoir computing to teach robots to think like humans by simulating brain signals. The system enables goal-directed behavior without additional learning, highlighting a potential breakthrough in AI development.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateOct 26, 2021

Regulation of protein homeostasis by cardiac glycosides

Researchers discovered periplocin, a potent inhibitor of the IRE1-XBP1 axis, which suppresses the unfolded protein response (UPR). Cardiac glycosides, commonly used for cardiac insufficiency therapy, also exhibited similar UPR-suppressing effects.

SourceNagoya City University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 6, 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.

How math can help us understand the human body

Researchers at Ohio State University used graph theory to model homeostasis in the human body, predicting changes in dopamine levels and identifying properties of graphs that can help prevent system breakdowns. This approach could lead to targeted medical care for people who need it.

SourceOhio State University·DateMar 3, 2021

Mood homeostasis before, during COVID-19 lockdown

Researchers investigated mood homeostasis before and during COVID-19 lockdown among Dutch students, finding that lockdowns hindered their ability to stabilize their moods with mood-modifying activities. The study aimed to understand how individuals adapted to the lockdowns and what factors influenced their mental well-being.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJul 29, 2020