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New gut bacterium discovered in termite's digestion of wood

Researchers at Caltech have identified a previously unknown bacterium in the termite gut that may be responsible for most acetogenesis. The bacterium, part of the deltaproteobacteria group, attaches to the surface of a hydrogen-producing protozoan, providing a new understanding of the complex food web in the termite gut.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 26, 2013

Recent highlights in Molecular Biology and Evolution

A study has identified 114 genes on the X chromosome that have escaped silencing, including 76 previously unknown. These genes are often associated with mental impairment and may hold clues to better management of XXX syndrome.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateSep 25, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cold sore linked to mutation in gene, study suggests

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have found a link between cold sore susceptibility and a mutated gene, revealing why some people are more prone to the virus that causes them. The study identifies IL28b as the affected gene, which plays a crucial role in mounting an immune response against the herpes simplex virus.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateSep 16, 2013

Rare gene variant linked to macular degeneration

A recent study has identified a rare gene mutation linked to age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of blindness in Americans over 50. The C3 gene variant contributes to AMD risk by interfering with the complement pathway's normal function.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateSep 16, 2013

Who benefits from vitamin D?

A recent University of Eastern Finland study found that individuals whose expression of certain genes was not altered by vitamin D supplementation may already have a sufficient level of serum vitamin D or be disturbed in their vitamin D utilization. The researchers believe this approach can help identify potential beneficiaries of long...

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 13, 2013

Bacterial blockade

Harvard scientists have identified a pair of genes that allow certain gut bacteria to break down a widely prescribed cardiac drug into an inactive compound. The researchers found that these genes are expressed when the bacteria are exposed to the drug, and that they play a key role in converting the drug into its inactive form.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateJul 25, 2013
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.

Genome mapping of oil palm poised to improve yields, protect rainforest

Scientists have mapped the genomes of two oil palm species and identified a critical gene for yield improvement. The discovery has implications for enhancing sustainable palm oil production while reducing pressure on wild rainforests, which account for nearly half of global edible vegetable oil.

SourceCanale Communications·JournalNature·DateJul 24, 2013

Gene mutation in dogs offers clues for neural tube defects in humans

Researchers identified a gene mutation in dogs that is associated with neural tube defects in humans. The study found six cases of the mutation in human patients with spina bifida, suggesting a potential link between the dog gene and human neural tube defects.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJul 19, 2013

How mice teach us about disease

A large new resource of mouse lines has been created to study human diseases, revealing new functions for well-known genes and unexpected associations with traits like body weight. The project provides a wealth of freely available clinical and biological information to aid in the development of new therapies.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalCell·DateJul 18, 2013
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.

Autism Speaks collaborative releases first full genome sequencing for autism

A collaborative effort by Autism Speaks has found full genome sequencing examining the entire DNA code of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their family members. The study identified genetic variations associated with risk for ASD, including de novo, X-linked, and inherited DNA lesions in four new genes.

SourceAutism Speaks·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJul 11, 2013

Resistance gene found against Ug99 wheat stem rust pathogen

Researchers at Kansas State University have identified a key component of plants' immune system that recognizes and fights the invasive Ug99 stem rust pathogen. The discovery of the Sr35 gene provides hope for developing new wheat varieties to protect global food crops against this devastating disease.

SourceKansas State University·JournalScience·DateJun 27, 2013

Variants in the SIM1 gene are associated with severe obesity

Two independent studies identified SIM1 mutations in obese patients, revealing a strong link between SIM1 dysfunction and severe obesity. Reduced SIM1 function was associated with increased food intake, altered nervous system dysfunctions, and Prader-Willi-like features.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 17, 2013

Discovery of the gene responsible for multiple intestinal atresia in newborns

Researchers have identified the TTC7A gene as the cause of multiple intestinal atresia (MIA), a rare and life-threatening condition. The discovery will enable the development of prenatal diagnostic tests for pregnant women and screening tests for carriers, offering new hope for affected families.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of Medical Genetics·DateJun 11, 2013

New gene discovery for babies born with hole in the heart

Researchers discovered a new gene associated with congenital heart disease, specifically atrial septal defect (ASD), which may help improve genetic counselling and understanding of normal development. The study involved over 2,000 patients and found a strong association between the Msx1 gene and risk of ASD.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 26, 2013
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Drought makes Borneo's trees flower at the same time

Researchers identified two genes responsible for flowering in a tropical tree species. The genes, SbFT and SbSVP, show dramatic changes before flowering after a four-week drought period. This discovery may help predict mass flowering events, aiding conservation efforts.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateMay 22, 2013

Unusual comparison nets new sleep loss marker

Scientists have identified a human gene, ITGA5, that becomes more active after sleep deprivation, offering a potential new marker for detecting sleep loss. The discovery was made through cross-translational research with fruit flies, which allowed the researchers to identify genes in humans and then test them in flies.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 3, 2013

Better wheat for a warming planet

Researchers at WSU will develop climate-resilient wheat varieties to tackle rising temperatures and limited water in growing regions. The project aims to identify genes associated with heat tolerance, benefiting all wheat-growing regions worldwide.

SourceWashington State University·DateApr 9, 2013
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.

Genes behind obesity mapped in large-scale study

A large-scale study identified seven new gene loci linked to obesity, showing a significant overlap with genetic mechanisms causing milder forms of overweight. The research included over 260,000 participants and demonstrated that extreme obesity shares similar genetic factors as normal or slightly elevated BMI.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 7, 2013

DNA: How to unravel the tangle

Researchers have created a numeric model of the chromosome that supports experimental data and provides a hypothesis on the bundle's function. The model identifies regions with specific genes, contradicting the chaotic view of the chromosome as a randomly entangled thread.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMar 29, 2013

ORNL scientists solve mercury mystery, Science reports

Researchers at ORNL have solved the mystery of how bacteria convert mercury into methylmercury, a far more toxic form. The team identified two genes, hgcA and hgcB, responsible for this conversion process, which has significant implications for protecting human health.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateFeb 7, 2013
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 identifies 24 new autism-related gene variants

Researchers identified 24 new copy number variants with strong links to autism, providing potential genetic diagnosis for up to 10-12% of children with ASD. The study validates the genetic markers used in a commercial test, advancing early detection and treatment methods.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 14, 2013

More than 200 genes identified for Crohn's Disease

Researchers at UCL have identified over 200 gene locations linked to Crohn's Disease, a complex condition with a significant genetic component. The study uses a new method to analyze the human genome and provides evidence that specific clinical sub-groups may carry different risk genes.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateDec 13, 2012
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.

Scientists discover new method of gene identification

Scientists have discovered a new method for identifying genes in animals, which could increase genetic information by 70-80%. This technique allows for direct observation of genes and proteins, enabling more efficient study of animal diseases and viruses.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Methods·DateNov 11, 2012

NYU researchers find electricity in biological clock

Researchers at NYU have uncovered the electrical activity of biological clock neurons that help regulate behavioral rhythms. The study highlights the importance of understanding the coordination between neuronal firing and gene expression to develop new pathways for treating sleep disorders.

SourceNew York University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 4, 2012

Novel gene associated with Usher syndrome identified

A novel gene CIB2 has been associated with Usher syndrome, a devastating genetic disorder that affects both hearing and vision. The discovery provides new insights into the disease's progression and may lead to future therapeutic targets.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalNature Genetics·DateOct 1, 2012
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.

Major genetic discovery explains 10 percent of aortic valve disease

A new study has identified genetic origins of aortic valve disease affecting 10% of cases, shedding light on hereditary component and progression of the disease. The research found rare genetic variants linked to severe health effects and disease processes, with many affected patients carrying multiple variants.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateSep 27, 2012

New gene could lead to better bug-resistant plants

A new gene has been discovered that can help make domestic tomatoes more resistant to pests, a trait shared by their wild cousins. The research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, identifies a gene involved in producing acyl sugars that fend off bugs.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 17, 2012
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.

Too much protein HUWE1 causes intellectual disability

Research by VIB/KU Leuven scientists identifies HUWE1 as the culprit behind intellectual disability in some patients, a condition affecting approximately 15% of cases. The study's findings open up possibilities for detecting and treating X-linked intellectual disabilities through targeted tests and further research.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateAug 31, 2012

How gene profiling in emphysema is helping to find a cure

A study published in Genome Medicine identified genes whose activity is altered with increasing lung damage. The compound Gly-His-Lys (GHK) was found to affect the activity of these genes and restore normal gene activity, repairing cell function in human cells from lungs damaged by emphysema.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Medicine·DateAug 30, 2012

Scientists identify new gene that influences survival in ALS

Researchers at UMass Chan Medical School have discovered a gene that influences survival time in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The study found that blocking the activity of EphA4 receptor substantially extends the lifespan of people with the disease. Additionally, a new ALS gene (profilin-1) identified last month works in conjun...

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 26, 2012
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 find genetic cause for body tremors

Researchers at the University of Montreal have identified a genetic cause for Essential Tremor (ET), a common movement disorder characterized by involuntary shaking. The study's findings provide new insights into the disease mechanism and may lead to improved diagnosis and treatment options for affected individuals.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateAug 2, 2012

New cause of child blindness identified

A team of international scientists has identified the new gene responsible for Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA), a devastating genetic form of blindness in newborns. NMNAT1 is crucial for life and produces a vital coenzyme called NAD, involved in hundreds of reactions in the cell.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalNature Genetics·DateJul 29, 2012

New method for associating genetic variation with crop traits

A new technique links agronomic traits in crops with active genomic regions, identifying expressed genes. This allows plant breeders to develop markers based on these genes, accelerating breeding through marker-assisted selection.

SourceNorwich BioScience Institutes·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJul 22, 2012
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.

UMass Medical School researchers discover a new role for RNAi

Researchers identified a mechanism related to RNAi that scans for intruders by comparing foreign sequences to a memory of previously expressed native RNA, creating an 'epigenetic memory' that silences the gene. This memory can be passed on from one generation to the next.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalCell·DateJun 26, 2012

Fishing for answers to autism puzzle

Researchers at MIT used zebrafish to study genes associated with autism, finding that nearly all produced brain abnormalities when deleted. The study identified two key genes, kif22 and aldolase a, which may contribute to the development of neurological disorders.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalDisease Models & Mechanisms·DateJun 19, 2012

New cerebellar ataxia gene identified in dogs

Researchers have identified a novel candidate gene, SEL1L, in Finnish Hound dogs with early-onset progressive cerebellar degeneration. The study reveals a single nucleotide change in the SEL1L gene causing an amino acid change and endoplasmic reticulum stress.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJun 18, 2012

Scientists identify first gene in programmed axon degeneration

Researchers at UMass Chan Medical School have identified the first gene, dSarm/Sarm1, responsible for promoting axon destruction after injury. The discovery provides a new therapeutic target to delay or stop axon decay in neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalScience·DateJun 7, 2012
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Discovery of a gene that causes Joubert Syndrome

Researchers identified C5ORF42 as the gene causing Joubert Syndrome in French Canadian families in the Lower St. Lawrence region of Quebec. The study, published in The American Journal of Human Genetics, provides a genetic basis for the syndrome and allows family members to assess their children's genetic risks with a simple DNA test.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMay 10, 2012

2 distinguishable gene groups detected: 1 'normal' and 1 problematic

Two distinguishable gene groups have been detected: one producing abundant biochemical products and functioning properly in most biological processes, and another with potentially abnormal function in diseases. The findings have significant implications for tailoring therapy to individual patients

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 23, 2012
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.

New lab mice cut search for genetic links to disease by more than a decade

A new population of lab mice developed by Tel Aviv University offers 1,000 genetic strains for research into human diseases. This increase in genetic diversity enables researchers to identify gene associations within two to three years, compared to the previous 10-15 year timeframe.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalNature·DateApr 5, 2012

DNA sequencing consortium unveils patterns of mutations in autism

A DNA sequencing consortium has identified patterns of mutations in autism, highlighting hundreds of genes and pinpointing two specific genes as strong risk factors. The study found that de novo point mutations play a role in the development of autism, with some genes more connected to each other than expected.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalNature·DateApr 4, 2012

New epilepsy gene located in dogs

A new epilepsy gene has been discovered in dogs, specifically in Belgian Shepherds, which is associated with a seven-fold increased risk of epilepsy. The research also suggests that other genetic risk factors may be present in the breed, and ongoing studies aim to identify the specific gene causing epilepsy.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 23, 2012
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.

In the genes, but which ones?

A new Harvard study found that nearly every case of hypothesized genetic pathways failed to replicate, indicating intelligence may be tied to many genes and their interactions. The researchers used large data sets to examine a dozen genes and found only one gene associated with intelligence, which had a small effect.

SourceHarvard University·JournalPsychological Science·DateFeb 24, 2012