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Neurogenesis in a species of Central American fish depends on the presence of predation risk, Concordia research finds

A new study by Grant Brown and Braeden Donaldson found that juvenile convict cichlids exposed to high-risk alarm cues have brains 16% larger compared to low-risk groups, with noticeable increases in olfactory and optic bulbs. The brains revert to normal size after removal of the alarm cues.

SourceConcordia University·JournalProceedings of the Zoological Society·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 27, 2022

Sugary poo could be used to lure destructive plant pests to their doom

Researchers discover that male spotted lanternflies are strongly attracted to the smell of honeydew produced by male conspecifics, emitting specific sex-attractant profiles. This finding may lead to the development of new pest management tools to reduce the population and spread of this invasive species.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Insect Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Measuring the temperature inside cells

A joint research team from Korea and Japan developed site-specific organelle fluorescent thermometers that visualize temperature changes in almost all typical organelles. The new thermometers, called Thermo Greens (TGs), provide quantitative images of heat generation at different organelles, offering insights into cellular processes.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalMaterials Today Bio·DateSep 26, 2022

Shocking paint – let’s get cell in

Researchers from the Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, have developed a novel polymer-based solution that enables easy delivery of large molecules to cells. By applying hypertonic solutions, they can induce osmotic stress and relax the cell membrane, allowing for precise control over molecule transfer.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Colloid and Interface Science·DateSep 22, 2022

Untangled blinking: Fluorescence patterns aid medical diagnostics

A new DNA-based fluorescence technique using single-molecule electron-transfer kinetics can identify point mutations in mRNA, facilitating the diagnosis of gliomas and potentially treating the disease. This breakthrough may lead to real-time cancer diagnostics during surgical biopsies, reducing the need for multiple surgeries.

SourceOsaka University·JournalChem·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 31, 2022

Feeling anxious or blue? Ultra-processed foods may be to blame

Researchers found a strong association between ultra-processed food consumption and adverse mental health symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and mentally unhealthy days. The study suggests that the high sugar, salt, and saturated fat content of ultra-processed foods may contribute to these negative effects.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalPublic Health Nutrition·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 25, 2022
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.

Chemists create artificial protein that peers into Earth’s chemical past

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed an artificial protein that could provide new insights into chemical evolution on early Earth. The protein, inspired by a key enzyme in energy production, has been shown to build molecules one step at a time, shedding light on how organic chemistry matured on the planet.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 20, 2022
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.

New fluorophores could help fight cancer

Scientists have created new fluorescent chemical compounds for photodynamic therapy of cancerous tumors, which can stain affected tissues and destroy tumor cells without harm to healthy ones. The compound containing pyrene shows the highest fluorescent and anticancer activity.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalDyes and Pigments·DateJun 27, 2022

Artificial photosynthesis can produce food without sunshine

Scientists have developed artificial photosynthesis to produce food in the dark, bypassing sunlight's need. This technology converts CO2, electricity, and water into acetate, a key component of vinegar, boosting food production's conversion efficiency up to 18 times.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Food·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 23, 2022

Plant stress transformed into rapid tests for dangerous chemicals

Researchers have developed innovative tests for multiple chemicals using plant-based molecules that can detect synthetic cannabinoids and banned pesticides. The system uses a simple and inexpensive approach to quickly signal the presence of nearly 20 different chemicals.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJun 21, 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.

Diffuse optics for medical diagnostics: progress toward standardization

A collaborative initiative aims to establish common protocols for assessing and comparing diffuse optics systems used in medical diagnosis. The study presents the results of a multi-laboratory comparison of 12 institutions and 28 systems, proposing simple numeric values for easy comparison across instruments.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateJun 15, 2022

Study describes new way of generating insulin-producing cells

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet describe a new way of generating insulin-producing cells using a molecule that stimulates protein synthesis and boosts insulin production. The study shows promise for treating type 1 and 2 diabetes, potentially increasing the number of insulin-producing pancreatic β cells.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJun 13, 2022
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.

Chung-Ang University researchers use biomolecule-loaded metal-organic frameworks nanopatterns to aid artificial stem cell differentiation

A new platform mimics live cellular environment to guide stem cell differentiation outside the body. Researchers from Chung-Ang University developed a novel platform based on metal-organic frameworks, which offers advantages over conventional methods for in vitro stem cell differentiation.

SourceChung Ang University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 9, 2022

New study in Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis reveals influence of host plant on medicinal qualities of mistletoe

A study published in Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis found that the quality of mistletoe, a traditional Chinese medicine, is affected by its host plant. The researchers used metabolomics to investigate the influence of host plants and environmental factors on mistletoe's medicinal qualities. The results show that both host plants an...

SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2022

Molecules found in mucus can thwart fungal infection

Researchers have identified glycans in mucus that can prevent Candida albicans from causing infection. These molecules can be used to develop new antifungal medicines or make disease-causing fungus more susceptible to existing drugs.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJun 6, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

How high-intensity interval training can reshape metabolism

A study published in eLife found that high-intensity interval training increases the production of proteins essential for energy metabolism and muscle contractions, as well as alters key metabolic proteins through acetylation. These changes may contribute to improved metabolic health.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateMay 31, 2022

Carbon capture takes sponge-like form with new cost-effective method

Researchers have developed a new carbon capture method using sponge-like materials that can trap CO2 without degrading over time. The materials are made from sugar and low-cost alkali metal salts, making them a potentially cost-effective solution for reducing coal-fired power plant emissions.

SourceCornell University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMay 23, 2022

Rutgers pair creates monitoring toolkit to speed production of biologic drugs

Researchers at Rutgers University have created an automated tool to monitor biologic drugs during production, allowing for real-time quality control and enabling the production of biosimilars. The N-GLYcanyzer system can track changes in protein glycosylation and detect potential issues, improving drug safety and efficacy.

SourceRutgers University·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateMay 18, 2022

Exploring the ocean's thin skin

Researchers study the sea-surface microlayer, a biogeochemical reactor where organisms adapt to harsh conditions like UV radiation and fluctuating temperatures. The team aims to understand biological, chemical, and physical interactions in this thin layer, influencing global climate.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·DateMay 11, 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.

Learning chemical networks give life a chiral twist

A mathematical model reveals that spontaneous symmetry breaking in chemical reactions leads to homochirality, optimizing energy harvesting from the environment. This phenomenon could explain how life developed on primordial Earth and has implications for the synthesis of chiral drug molecules.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 26, 2022

Water processing: light helps degrade hormones

A new technology developed by KIT researchers uses polymer membranes coated with titanium dioxide to break down steroid hormones and other micropollutants in wastewater. The process is efficient, removing hormone concentrations close to the World Health Organization's drinking water guideline.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 22, 2022
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.

Lockdown for tumour cells

A novel inhibitor has been discovered that stalls a critical enzyme inside tumour cells, locking them in place and preventing invasion into healthy tissue. The findings hold promise for the development of metastasis-blocking agents.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateApr 20, 2022

New strategy enables successive cleavage and functionalization of C–C bonds in alcohols

Researchers developed a novel protocol for the direct synthesis of amides via heterogeneous manganese oxide catalyzed successive cleavage and amidation of C-C bonds in alcohols. The method features good functional-group tolerance, cost-effective and recyclable catalyst, and broad substrate scope.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChem·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 1, 2022
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.

X-rays help scientists uncover new forms of material using designer DNA

Researchers use DNA to program metal nanoparticles to assemble into new configurations, resulting in the discovery of three new crystalline phases. The approach enables symmetry breaking and creation of complex colloidal crystal structures with unique optical and catalytic properties.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 31, 2022

Pioneering technique could unlock targeted treatments for cancer

Researchers have described a pioneering chemical technique that can degrade proteins implicated in cancer, potentially increasing the potency and selectivity of new and existing drugs. This technique, known as proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs), targets specific structures within cancerous cells to reduce harmful side effects.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 17, 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.

Rebooting evolution

Scientists have developed a new computational tool that mimics the processes of natural selection, producing proteins for medicinal and household uses. This innovation reduces the time required for laboratory evolution from months or years to just days.

SourceCurtin University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 24, 2022
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 some gut microbes awaken zombie viruses in their neighbors

Researchers discovered that gut bacteria can awaken dormant viruses by producing colibactin, leading to cell-killing infections. This finding suggests a possible link between colibactin-producing bacteria and cancer, potentially benefiting the bacteria's own survival.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateFeb 23, 2022

Pioneering simulations focus on HIV-1 virus

Researchers at University of Texas at Austin create first-ever biologically authentic computer model of HIV-1 virus liposome, shedding light on replication and infectivity. The study reveals key characteristics of the liposome's asymmetry and its role in shaping macroscopic properties.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 23, 2022

The surprising structural reason your kitchen sponge is disgusting

Researchers found that kitchen sponges provide an optimal environment for microbial diversity by mimicking the separation and communal spaces found in healthy soil. This complex structure supports both solitary and diverse bacterial communities, leading to higher biodiversity levels.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2022

A boost to sulfur metabolism

A recent study by ITQB NOVA scientists uncovered the crucial role of a small marker protein, DsrD, in increasing metabolic activity for sulfate respiration. The findings suggest that DsrD acts as an allosteric activator of the DsrAB dissimilatory sulfite reductase, enhancing energy efficiency in microbial metabolism.

SourceInstituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier da Universidade NOVA de Lisboa ITQB NOVA·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 17, 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.

Recently identified protein group plays major role in nature

A new protein group has been identified that functions as a switch to regulate biological activity, found in all domains of life and essential for cellular activities such as gene expression and metabolism. The discovery opens up new possibilities for the development of novel drugs targeting these switches.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 2022

‘Decoy’ protein works against multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants

A newly developed decoy protein has been found to be highly effective in preventing death and lung damage in humanized animal models of severe COVID-19 disease. The treatment works by competing for the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, thereby neutralizing the virus before it can bind and enter cells.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 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.

New kid on the block: Cerium oxide nanozyme joins the pesticide detection taskforce, according to Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis study

Scientists develop a sensitive electrochemical detector using cerium oxide nanozyme to identify organophosphate pesticides in plants. The method provides an unprecedented wider linear range and a detection limit of 0.06 mmol/L, making it suitable for detecting trace amounts of pesticide residues.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2022

Pusan National University scientists develop simpler way to create common chemical detection platform

Researchers have created a new, simpler way to fabricate SERS nanostructures with superior stability and performance at low cost. By using a heat-resistant polymer called polyimide (PI), they can produce nanosurfaces with nanopillars that enhance signal intensity for efficient chemical detection. The new fabrication method has the pote...

SourcePusan National University·JournalSensors and Actuators B Chemical·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 17, 2022

Researchers pioneer new method to edit genes in human cells

Gladstone Institutes researchers have pioneered a new method to edit genes in human cells using retrons, which can produce abundant copies of template DNA from inside cells. The optimized system has shown improved efficiency and precision compared to current approaches.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJan 5, 2022

Bacterial genome is regulated by an ancient molecule

Researchers discovered that bacteria use an ancient molecule called polyphosphate to silence problematic genetic elements, similar to heterochromatin in eukaryotes. This process helps protect the bacterial cell from harm and could enable scientists to develop new antibiotics.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 5, 2022
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.

New study shows novel way to prevent postoperative complication after pancreatic surgery

Scientists at Tokyo University of Science have developed a novel polymer-based hydrogel that can prevent postoperative pancreatic fistulae, a frequent complication of pancreatic surgery. The Exceval hydrogel shows great promise for clinical applications due to its adjustable properties and high absorption abilities.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalPolymers for Advanced Technologies·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2021
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.

Method to reveal undesired biological effects of chemicals

A new approach has been developed to identify proteins affected by pollutants and chemicals, allowing for early detection of harmful biological effects. The method, called PISA, can be used to study the interactions between chemicals and proteins, revealing potential toxicity pathways.

SourceLinköping University·JournalJournal of Proteomics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2021

For the first time, DNA and proteins sensed by de novo-designed nanopore

Researchers in Japan have designed the first de novo-designed peptides that can form artificial nanopores to identify and enable single molecule-sorting of genetic material in a lipid membrane. The peptides can detect specific molecules, including DNA, and have the potential to mimic natural proteins' ability to detect specific proteins.

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateNov 24, 2021