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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.

Use of “genetic scissors” carries risks

The CRISPR tool was successfully used to correct a genetic defect in cells affected by chronic granulomatous disease. However, the repair process also introduced new genetic defects, highlighting the need for caution when using CRISPR technology in clinical settings.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 6, 2024

The evolutionary paradox behind the unusual mating strategy of the ruff

A study on ruff (Calidris pugnax) found a surprisingly low mutation load in the supergene controlling male mating strategies, forcing a reevaluation of supergene evolution. The researchers propose two potential scenarios to resolve this paradox: recent acquisition of recessive lethality or introgression from another species.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateDec 7, 2023

Monitoring genetic mutations will be important for Florida panther management

A new study found nearly half of Florida panther mutations originated from Texas and Central American pumas, bringing both good and bad genetic material. Researchers emphasize the need to monitor genetic health due to potential risks, especially with small population sizes. Genetic screening for future introductions may be necessary.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalJournal of Heredity·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 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.

‘Supergene’ wreaks havoc in a genome

Researchers have discovered a selfish genetic element, known as Segregation Distorter (SD), that skews genetic inheritance. SD has caused dramatic changes in chromosome organization and genetic diversity, leading to the accumulation of deleterious mutations.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournaleLife·DateJul 6, 2022

Male animals are subject to stronger evolutionary pressures than females

A study found that male animals have a greater genetic variance in reproductive success compared to females, which translates into purging deleterious mutations. This suggests that sexual selection on males bolsters adaptation and reduces the risk of extinction when facing challenging environmental conditions.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateNov 30, 2021

After 10,000 years of inbreeding, endangered flightless parrots from New Zealand are in surprisingly good genetic health

Despite 10,000 years of inbreeding, the kākāpō genome sequencing reveals that the species has lost potentially deleterious mutations and now carries fewer harmful mutations than extinct mainland populations. This finding suggests that natural selection may have facilitated genetic purging in small populations.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Genomics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 8, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Males help keep populations genetically healthy

A new study from Uppsala University reveals that males play a crucial role in maintaining genetic health by eliminating harmful mutations. The research found that selective pressure on males leads to the purging of deleterious mutations, resulting in healthier genes and increased reproductive capacity.

SourceUppsala University·JournalEvolution Letters·DateJun 27, 2021

New limits to functional portion of human genome reported

A recent study published in Genome Biology and Evolution proposes that only 10-15% or up to 25% of the human genome is functional, with the remaining portion consisting of non-functional 'junk DNA'. This finding contradicts previous estimates suggesting 80% of the genome has a biochemical function.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateJul 14, 2017

Populations survive despite many deleterious mutations

Researchers found that a slow response to reduced fitness accelerates Muller's ratchet, increasing the frequency of clicks. Even in unfavorable conditions, a small proportion of positive mutations can sustain populations, explaining the long-term maintenance of mitochondria.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalGenetics·DateAug 10, 2012
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.