Scientists at Tokyo Metropolitan University created a computer simulation predicting the spread of an invasive beetle species threatening Japan's cherry trees. The model, based on river lengths and roads, provided accurate results comparable to real-world data.
SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalManagement of Biological Invasions·DateDec 18, 2021
A new device has been developed that converts sunlight into two promising sources of renewable fuels – ethylene and hydrogen. The researchers found that by optimizing the working conditions for cuprous oxide, a promising artificial photosynthesis material, they can create a more stable system.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 16, 2021
Researchers developed a dish-based model that replicates the characteristics of dry age-related macular degeneration, allowing them to screen over 1,200 drugs for their ability to slow or halt disease progression. Two drugs, Aminocaproic acid and L745, showed promise in inhibiting key phenotypes associated with AMD.
SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2021
A doctoral student at Texas A&M University has discovered blood outgrowth endothelial cells (BOECs) as an alternative to induced pluripotent stem cells (IPSCs) for organs-on-chips, offering a cheaper and more accessible option for patient-specific research. The new cells can be isolated from just 50-100 milliliters of blood and have sh...
SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·TypeNews article·DateDec 10, 2021
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.
A NIH study has identified a molecular link between a gene mutation and late-onset retinal degeneration, a rare eye disease. The researchers found that the diabetes drug metformin and gene therapy may be effective treatments for the condition, which can cause abnormal blood vessel growth and deposits of apolipoprotein E.
SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2021
The study leverages machine learning to tackle long-unsolvable problems in biological systems at the cellular level. By reducing data points, researchers can better analyze and model the impact of cells with high fidelity.
SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Computational Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 9, 2021
Researchers identified three prototypical RNA-expression states in pancreatic cancer cells and found that altering the tumor microenvironment can drive tumor cells to become more susceptible to certain drugs. This discovery opens up new possibilities for personalized medicine and targeting specific drug responses.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell·DateDec 9, 2021
Scientists have identified a mechanism contributing to the tissue phenotypes of PMM2-CDG, a congenital disorder of glycosylation. Using a zebrafish model, researchers found that defects in N-cadherin processing lead to craniofacial and motility abnormalities.
SourceGreenwood Genetic Center·JournalJCI Insight·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 8, 2021
An experimental drug called NAP has been found effective in treating a broad spectrum of symptoms related to autism, intellectual disability, and Alzheimer's disease. Researchers discovered that NAP normalizes brain function in mice modeling ADNP syndrome, a rare disorder linked to these conditions.
SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateDec 8, 2021
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.
Researchers will investigate how cells collect and interpret signals to make differentiation decisions, using live cell imaging and mathematical frameworks. The goal is to reveal the mechanisms behind cells' earliest decisions and improve stem cell fate prediction.
Researchers have developed new preclinical models to understand gastric cancer development and spread. Using these models, they identified Lgr5-expressing tumour cells as responsible for driving gastric cancer growth and spread, establishing them as a potential therapeutic target.
SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateDec 6, 2021
Researchers have discovered molecules that could be candidates for contraceptives or fertility enhancers using human blastoid models. These models also show promise in improving the self-organization of stem cells during IVF procedures.
SourceIMBA- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021
Researchers developed a new kind of organoid that grows both heart and gut cells together, mirroring their cooperation in embryonic development. This breakthrough could improve understanding of tissue communication and inform research into congenital disorders.
SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateDec 2, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Researchers at Saarland University have discovered that the lipid and cholesterol metabolism of immune cells collaborating with tumour cells is severely compromised compared to tumour tissue. This finding suggests a possible explanation for why cholesterol-lowering drugs are ineffective against non-small-cell lung carcinoma.
SourceSaarland University·JournalEBioMedicine·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2021
Researchers at Harvard's Wyss Institute have developed a microfluidic Organ Chip device that accurately models cystic fibrosis lung airway pathology. The model replicates key pathological hallmarks, including mucus layer changes and inflammatory responses, providing a comprehensive preclinical human model for investigating new therapies.
SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalJournal of Cystic Fibrosis·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 19, 2021
Researchers have sequenced the Arabidopsis genome at unprecedented detail, shedding light on centromere evolution and revealing genetic and epigenetic topography. The findings provide insights into the genomic equivalent of black holes, a region that has long been challenging to analyze.
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
A recent study published in Science Advances found that deleting the ABI3 gene increases amyloid-beta plaque accumulation and decreases microglia function, which may contribute to Alzheimer's disease progression. The researchers also identified a link between the mutation and increased risk of late-onset Alzheimer's.
SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 5, 2021
Researchers at Mount Sinai have developed a diverse library of well-characterized human induced pluripotent stem cell lines from clinically healthy individuals, offering valuable resources for studying normal human biology, evaluating drug responses, and disease modeling.
SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateNov 4, 2021
Researchers develop cellular models to study SARS-CoV-2 infection of the inner ear, finding that the virus can infect hair cells and Schwann cells. The pattern of infection matches symptoms observed in a study of 10 Covid-19 patients with ear-related issues.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCommunications Medicine·DateOct 29, 2021
A team of scientists developed a free VR tool called singlecellVR, allowing users to explore single-cell datasets in VR. The program is built on previous advancements and enables users to visualize their own precomputed data directly from commonly used single-cell analysis tools.
SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Genetics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 28, 2021
Researchers have made significant progress in generating neurons in the lab, a potential therapeutic option for replacing lost neurons in neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson's disease. A $9 million grant will support further research and development of this novel treatment approach.
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.
Researchers at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute use computer modeling to study the relationship between tumor-immune environment and radiation response. They discover that tumor cells will either escape immune predation or be eradicated based on the numbers of immune effector and suppressor cells present. The model hel...
SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalNeoplasia·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 18, 2021
The study models biomolecular condensates using oil droplets and polymer mesh, revealing temperature modulation's impact on droplet growth and size distribution. The results provide insights into the formation of microscopic patterns in biological systems.
SourceMax Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 4, 2021
Researchers have created a human disease model of FCMD using stem cells from a patient, which successfully mimicked the disorder's brain defects. The study found that a small compound called Mannan-007 can restore αDG glycosylation and reduce FCMD-related defects.
SourceFujita Health University·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 1, 2021
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 have developed patient-specific whole-heart models to predict risk of sudden cardiac death and outcomes of cardiac procedures. These models incorporate individual geometry, structure, and other patient-specific information, enabling personalized diagnosis and treatment.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalBiophysics Reviews·DateSep 28, 2021
Researchers developed lab-grown cochlear organoids to screen FDA-approved drugs for hair cell-inducing properties. The study identified Regorafenib as a potent stimulator of hair cell formation, even regenerating lost cells in mouse tissues.
SourceInternational Society for Stem Cell Research·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateSep 14, 2021
Researchers used complex computer simulations to study the attachment of SARS-CoV-2 and its variants to human cells. They found that the virus has two main locations where it grabs onto the host cell receptor ACE2, with early strains having a slippery interaction at one region that becomes less slippery as variants evolve.
SourceRochester Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics·DateSep 13, 2021
Researchers at UC San Diego will use $6.4 million in NIH funding to study the influence of external signals on insulin production in beta cells. They aim to create a roadmap of genetic variations that can predict changes in insulin output, which may help prevent and treat diabetes.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateSep 9, 2021
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.
Researchers created tiny human midbrain-like organoids that mimic the major pathological features of Parkinson's disease. These organoids enable scientists to study how the human brain develops and communicates, providing insights into the progression of the disease and potential new treatments.
SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalAnnals of Neurology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2021
Researchers at Nanyang Technological University have developed a 3D model of the human artery blood vessel wall to study atherosclerosis. The model, called an 'arterial wall-on-a-chip', helps understand how cholesterol and inflammatory cells contribute to the disease.
SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalLab on a Chip·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 3, 2021
A new study proposes that protocells, the putative ancestors of modern living cells, used temperature differences to divide. This simple mechanism could underlie the growth and self-replication of these early cells.
SourceCell Press·JournalBiophysical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 3, 2021
The COgITOR project aims to develop an initial prototype for an autonomous liquid cybernetic system that can be used as an intelligent, active probe in extreme areas. The system will be composed of concentric spheres containing solvents enriched with nanoparticles and a silicon chip in the centre.
SourceIstituto Italiano di Tecnologia - IIT·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 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.
Researchers have created brain organoids from people with 16p11.2 genomic variations, which exhibit differences in brain size seen in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. The study revealed new information about molecular mechanisms that malfunction when this region is disrupted, providing opportunities for therapeutic intervention.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateAug 25, 2021
Researchers at Masonic Medical Research Institute are using human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) to create scientific models for studying cardiac arrhythmias and testing therapeutics. The integration of mathematical modeling tools enables the prediction of drug efficacy with minimal adverse effects.
SourceMasonic Medical Research Institute·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateAug 25, 2021
Researchers have identified a new potential treatment for neuroblastoma by targeting the ALT mechanism, which is responsible for chemotherapy resistance. The study found that activating ATM kinase at telomeres promotes chemotherapy resistance in ALT neuroblastoma and suggests a cancer-specific approach to treating this disease.
SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 2021
Researchers at UCLA developed brain organoids that mimic human brain structure and function, allowing for the study of neurological disorders like Rett syndrome. The organoids showed organized waves of activity similar to those found in living brains and responded to treatment with an experimental drug.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 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.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University successfully printed the first entirely active and viable glioblastoma tumor using a 3D printer. The 3D-bioprinted model includes functional blood vessels that simulate a real tumor, making it a promising tool for predicting treatment efficacy and drug development.
SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 18, 2021
Researchers found a mutation in ELOVL4 enzyme impairs communication between neurons, leading to impaired motor control and coordination. The study provides new insights into the essential role of ELOVL4 in motor function and synaptic plasticity, suggesting potential therapeutic strategies for patients with spinocerebellar ataxia.
SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalMolecular Neurobiology·DateAug 17, 2021
Researchers found that microscopic defects in healthy cell alignment can slow down tumor cell invasion. The study used an experimental model to show how topological defects affect the rate of tumor cell invasion, with certain defects causing cancer cells to pass through the barrier more slowly.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Bioengineering·DateAug 3, 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.
A study by Van Andel Institute scientists found that surplus sugar causes mitochondria to become less efficient, reducing their energy output. A low-sugar ketogenic diet reversed this effect, supporting healthy mitochondrial integrity and function.
SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 3, 2021
Researchers have created live cell models that mimic mitochondrial disease cells, allowing for drug studies and further research into the disease. These cell lines have the potential to support upcoming research and provide relief to patients and their families.
SourceVirginia Tech·JournalBMC Molecular and Cell Biology·DateJul 15, 2021
Researchers have discovered a new set of signals that control the production of goblet cells in the lung, which are often increased in lung diseases. The study found that altering these signals can increase or decrease goblet cell production, offering potential therapeutic avenues for treating conditions like asthma and COPD.
SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 13, 2021
Researchers at TU Graz developed the world's first digital model of a cancer cell, simulating rhythmic oscillation of membrane potential during cell cycle phases. The model enables prediction of changes in membrane potential caused by drug-induced switching on and off of ion channels.
SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJul 1, 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.
Researchers at Newcastle University have successfully created a model of lung cells using induced pluripotent stem cells, which can be used to replicate how COVID-19 infects the airways. The model has shown that it is capable of secreting mucus and being infected by SARS-CoV-2, paving the way for broader studies on viral lung infections.
The June edition of SLAS Technology features protocols for controlled cell seeding, splitting and expansion of human fibroblasts, induced pluripotent stem cells, and neural progenitor cells. Researchers have made significant improvements in forming complex 3D structures but face challenges in automating assay protocols.
SourceSLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)·JournalSLAS TECHNOLOGY·DateJun 4, 2021
Researchers modelled plant cell walls, discovering that chains of cellulose form a network providing both strength and extensibility. This new concept could inspire polymeric materials with new properties.
Researchers successfully produced an artificial lung model with a three-layer structure of about 10 micrometers thickness using inkjet bioprinting. The model replicated the physiological response to viral infectivity and antiviral response, enabling mass production and quality control for disease models.
SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateMar 25, 2021
A team of researchers from Texas A&M University developed an organ-on-a-chip device that can model the disease physiology of patients with sickle cell disease. The device uses blood outgrowth endothelial cells to mimic a patient's vessel, allowing for personalized treatment and predicting disease progression.
SourceTexas A&M University·JournalBioengineering & Translational Medicine·DateMar 24, 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.
The study presents a model to study intervertebral disc degeneration using experimental knowledge and network modelling solutions. The in-silico model predicts risk factors such as metabolic problems and deregulation of the inflammatory system that can affect the nutrition and functionality of the disc cells.
SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalBioinformatics·DateFeb 5, 2021
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have discovered a connection between metabolic disturbance in retinal ganglion cells and high intraocular pressure. Rapamycin and pyruvate treatments showed protective effects in animal and cell models.
SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 15, 2020
A machine learning model developed in Finland can identify best cancer drug combinations to selectively kill specific cancer cells with unique genetic or functional profiles. The AI model accurately predicts how different drug combinations inhibit particular cancer cells, paving the way for more effective cancer treatments.
SourceAalto University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 1, 2020
Researchers at WPI will develop computational models to understand cellular forces and geometry during cell division. The study aims to identify factors that lead to defective spindle structure in cells, which can be targeted to promote cancer cell death.
Scientists have discovered a novel mechanism to increase arterial diameter by selectively increasing endothelial cell size, allowing for rapid increases in blood flow. This approach has significant advantages over conventional angiogenesis methods, enabling faster restoration of blood flow and oxygen delivery.
SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 28, 2020
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.
The study investigated the long-term effects of sirolimus on three different cell in vitro models, cultured in physiological conditions mimicking sirolimus-eluted stent. Sirolimus showed a cytostatic effect but had varying effects on clonogenic potential among different cell types.
SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateOct 21, 2020
A team of researchers from the University of Münster has created a groundbreaking viral expression model that can simulate and analyze various viral infections, including SARS-CoV-2. The model uses stem cells to mimic the mechanisms of action of viruses, allowing for precise investigation of disease progression and potential treatments.
SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 8, 2020
A Bayesian modeling framework can estimate population in each 100-m grid cell with an overall error rate of 67 people per hectare. This approach may be suitable for conflict-affected or remote areas where regular census surveys are not feasible.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2020
A comprehensive review of animal and cellular models of SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 highlights the importance of understanding underlying diseases in predicting mortality. The study identifies key factors, including age, male sex, social deprivation, and chronic conditions, that increase the risk of severe disease.
SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalMucosal Immunology·DateAug 24, 2020
Researchers have developed a 3D bioprinted skin model of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) to test the efficacy of chemotherapies. The model selectively killed cSCC cells while sparing normal keratinocytes, demonstrating its potential for pre-clinical screening.
SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateJul 7, 2020
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.
Researchers at Texas A&M University developed an analytical procedure to predict oil and gas flow in newly drilled wells using spreadsheet-based analysis. This method matches the accuracy of complex reservoir simulations but is much quicker and can be used by technicians with little training.
A new machine learning model, BE-Hive, accurately predicts the outcomes of using different base editors to correct genetic mutations. The model discovered new properties and capabilities of base editors, allowing researchers to design novel tools with improved efficiency.