Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Cardiac and visual degeneration arrested by a food supplement

Researchers at UNIGE discovered a new gene linked to blindness and cardiomyopathy, which causes a deficiency in taurine. Administering a taurine supplement halted the progression of eye disease and treated cardiac disease in two children.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateJan 21, 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.

Scientists discover link between ALS genes

A new study identified Gemin3 as a molecular 'bridge' between genes causing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a neurodegenerative disease. The research holds promise for developing treatments effective for a broad range of ALS patients.

SourceUniversity of Malta·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 16, 2020

Discovery of gene that modifies the severity of inherited kidney disease

Researchers have identified a second gene, BSND, which determines the severity of kidney disease in patients with Joubert syndrome. The discovery has significant implications for diagnosis and treatment of genetic kidney diseases, offering hope for personalized therapies to reduce disease severity.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 9, 2020

Biology: Genetic 'clock' predicts lifespan in vertebrates

A study in Scientific Reports presents a genetic model that accurately estimates lifespans of different vertebrate species by analyzing 42 selected genes and their CpG sites, which are correlated with lifespan. The 'lifespan clock' reveals high predictive power for various species, including extinct ones.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 12, 2019

The genetic signature of memory

A recent study identified distinct gene signatures associated with memory creation, found in cortical and subcortical regions of the brain. These genes play crucial roles in memory processes, immune signaling, neuronal generation, and mRNA production.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateDec 9, 2019

Genetic markers in high-altitude populations

A study identifies 5 genetic markers near the EGLN1 gene linked to high-altitude adaptations, suggesting natural selection in these populations. These markers were found at higher frequencies among 429 Quechua people from Peru compared to lowland populations.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

'Short sleep' gene prevents memory deficits associated with sleep deprivation

A new gene, NPSR1, has been discovered that promotes natural short sleep and prevents memory deficits associated with sleep deprivation. The researchers found that the mutant version of NPSR1 is easier to activate and better at switching on other proteins involved in wakefulness.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 16, 2019

New genes identified in hearing loss, providing treatment hope

Researchers from King's College London and UCL have identified 44 genes linked to age-related hearing loss, offering a clearer understanding of the condition's development. The study's findings may lead to new therapies for millions worldwide affected by hearing loss as they age.

SourceKing's College London·JournalThe American Journal of Human Genetics·DateSep 26, 2019
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.

More predictive genetic risk score sought for type 1 diabetes

A highly predictive genetic risk score is being developed by Paul Tran to identify children at significant risk of developing type 1 diabetes. The algorithm uses a feedforward neural network to analyze thousands of gene variants associated with the disease, aiming to predict with five times better accuracy than current systems.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateSep 16, 2019

Acute chikungunya infection studied at the molecular level in Brazilian patients

Brazilian researchers used computational tools to analyze blood cells from patients infected with chikungunya virus, identifying genes associated with the disease and potential biomarkers of predisposition to chronic joint pain. The study suggests that certain gene signatures can be explored as therapeutic targets.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateSep 16, 2019
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.

Transcriptional landscape of neonatal heart regeneration

A study identified genes associated with heart regeneration in neonatal mouse hearts. Genes related to immunity and developmental programs were found to promote regeneration. Enhanced post-MI regeneration was observed in mouse hearts overexpressing the RNA-binding protein IGF2BP3.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 26, 2019

Pinpointing the molecular mechanisms of aging

Scientists used an epigenetic clock to explore the molecular mechanisms of aging in humans and identified a gene, NSD1, that is closely linked to the process. This research could lead to a better understanding of how aging works and its relationship with various conditions.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory - European Bioinformatics Institute·JournalGenome Biology·DateAug 13, 2019

Newly identified rice gene confers multiple-herbicide resistance

A newly discovered gene in rice renders the crop resistant to several widely used beta-triketone herbicides. The HIS1 gene encodes an oxidase that detoxifies herbicide compounds, offering potential value in breeding new herbicide-resistant crops for efficient global food production.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 25, 2019

Genetic screen identifies genes that protect cells from Zika virus

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have identified genes that safeguard against Zika viral infection and resuscitate infected cells. The study found that the IFI6 gene provides high levels of protection against the virus, potentially leading to the development of a novel antiviral therapy.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Virology·DateJul 25, 2019

ASHG honors Huda Zoghbi with Victor A. McKusick Leadership Award

Huda Zoghbi, MD, is recognized for her contributions to the field of human genetics, including discoveries of genes responsible for Rett syndrome, spinocerebellar ataxia type 1, and other conditions. Her work has enriched the development of human genetics and its applications in science, medicine, and health.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·DateJul 22, 2019
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Yield-boosting stay-green gene identified from 118-year-old experiment in corn

A corn gene identified from a 118-year-old experiment at the University of Illinois can boost yields by an average of 4.6 bushels per acre, requiring no additional fertilizer inputs. The gene, NAC7, controls senescence and stays green longer, allowing plants to continue photosynthesizing and producing grain.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·DateJul 11, 2019

Mystery behind striped barley solved

Researchers have identified the HvAST gene as the cause of variegation in albostrians barley, a breakthrough that sheds new light on chloroplast biogenesis. The discovery provides novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying chloroplast development and has significant implications for plant biology.

SourceLeibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateJul 11, 2019
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.

Determined DNA hunt reveals schizophrenia clue

A joint Australian-Indian study has identified a new genetic variation associated with schizophrenia, found in over 3000 individuals. The research highlights the importance of studying diverse populations to understand the complex causes of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJul 3, 2019

BTI scientists create new genomic resource for improving tomatoes

Researchers have created a pan-genome that captures genetic information of 725 cultivated wild tomatoes, revealing nearly 5,000 new genes. This resource promises to help breeders develop more flavorful and sustainable varieties, potentially reducing the need for pesticides.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 13, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

New computational tool improves gene identification

A new bioinformatics tool analyzes CRISPR pooled screen data to identify candidate genes involved in diseases, outperforming existing methods. The web-based tool is quicker and more user-friendly, empowering non-bioinformaticians to analyze data.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalGenome Research·DateMay 6, 2019

Scientists identify genes tied to increased risk of ovarian cancer

Researchers have identified 34 genes associated with an increased risk of developing the earliest stages of ovarian cancer. The study uses alternative splicing analysis to pinpoint these genes, which can help identify women at high risk and pave the way for new therapies.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 1, 2019
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.

Mice reveal 38 new genes involved in hearing loss

A large-scale study of mouse mutants identified 38 new genes involved in hearing loss, revealing molecular pathways and regulatory processes. The findings provide a rich source of therapeutic targets for restoring hearing and suggest therapies may need to be directed at common molecular pathways.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 11, 2019

Mice reveal 38 new genes involved in hearing loss

A large-scale screen of mouse mutants revealed 38 new genes involved in hearing loss, including those related to metabolic pathways and regulatory processes. These findings provide a rich source of therapeutic targets for the restoration of hearing.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 11, 2019
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.

Gene responsible for toxic metal accumulation in durum wheat identified

A study published in Nature Genetics has identified a gene responsible for cadmium accumulation in durum wheat, a toxic metal that poses serious health risks. The discovery enables the rapid development of low-cadmium durum wheats, increasing the quality and safety of pasta and couscous.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 9, 2019

How education may stave off cognitive decline

A recent study published in JNeurosci has identified genes and molecular pathways associated with higher educational attainment in older adults. The research found that individuals with higher education levels had thicker prefrontal brain regions, which are linked to improved working memory and decision-making.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateApr 8, 2019

Genetic 'usual suspects' identified in researchers' new list

Scientists at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have created a ranked list of genes that are likely to be involved in any disease, allowing researchers to distinguish between these 'usual suspects' and those unique to specific conditions. The study's findings provide valuable context for interpreting gene activity in disease onset.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 5, 2019

Molecular correlates of preterm birth

A study analyzing genetic data from 791 family trios identified 160 genes associated with preterm birth, many related to inflammatory pathways. Candidate biomarker genes were found in the RAB31 and RBPJ genes, implicated in both preterm and very early births.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2019
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.

Source of citrus' sour taste is identified

A team of researchers identified the genes responsible for the hallmark sour taste of many citrus fruits. By analyzing these genes, plant breeders can develop new, sweeter varieties by targeting related genes that reduce acidity. The discovery could lead to the creation of better-tasting citrus fruits.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 4, 2019
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.

Finnish researchers discover a new form of hereditary osteoporosis

Researchers identified a gene defect underlying childhood-onset osteoporosis in two Finnish families and four additional families worldwide. The SGMS2 gene mutation causes changes in bone metabolism and mineralisation, leading to severe short stature and disturbed bone development.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalJCI Insight·DateFeb 24, 2019

Fruit fly wing research reshapes understanding of how organs form

A Rutgers University study has discovered that fruit fly wings remain the same shape even when cells are manipulated to change their division pattern, revealing a new way organs form. This breakthrough could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment of genetic diseases like mitral valve prolapse and van Maldergem syndrome.

SourceRutgers University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 21, 2019

UAlberta scientists first to pinpoint a cause of pigmentary glaucoma

Researchers pinpointed the premelanosome protein (PMEL) gene as the cause of pigmentary glaucoma, a condition that affects 150,000 people in North America. The study found that mutations in this gene lead to vision loss and blindness if left untreated.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateJan 30, 2019

The first spontaneous animal model of human hypophosphatasia uncovered

Researchers at the University of Helsinki have identified a genetic defect in dogs that causes a rare metabolic bone disease similar to human hypophosphatasia. The study provides the first spontaneous animal model of the disease and may lead to the development of new therapies.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 30, 2019

Set of genes predicts severity of dengue, Stanford study reports

A Stanford study has identified a set of 20 genes that predict the severity of dengue fever, allowing for more accurate diagnosis and treatment. The researchers used gene expression data from hundreds of patients to develop a predictive model that can identify patients at risk of severe disease.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 29, 2019
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.

300 blind mice uncover genetic causes of eye disease

A team of researchers has identified 261 new genes linked to blindness and vision disorders in mice, which could help identify new causes of hereditary blindness in humans. The study uses a large database of gene-knockout mice to accelerate the application of genomics in clinical medicine.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalCommunications Biology·DateDec 21, 2018

Baboon sexes differ in how social status gets 'under the skin'

A study of wild baboons in Kenya found that high-ranking individuals have better access to resources and immune system genes. However, the relationship between social status and health differs between males and females, suggesting a sex-specific connection between rank and immune function.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Tale of two trees: New web tool estimates gene trees with ease

The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology has unveiled a new web-based tool called ORTHOSCOPE, which quickly analyzes genomic data to estimate gene trees and identify sets of ancestral genes. This allows researchers to infer gene functions and understand species evolution.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateDec 13, 2018

Scientists identify new genetic causes linked to abnormal pregnancies and miscarriages

A team of scientists at McGill University Health Centre identified three genes responsible for recurrent molar pregnancies, a rare complication that occurs when a non-viable pregnancy with no embryo implants in the uterus. They discovered MEI1, TOP6BL/C11orf80, and REC114 mutations linked to genetic causes of fetal loss and miscarriages.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalThe American Journal of Human Genetics·DateNov 20, 2018

Making a map of the brain

Researchers have created a groundbreaking cellular atlas of the brain, revealing over 70 different types of neurons, their locations, and functions. This breakthrough technology allows for unprecedented insights into brain organization and behavior.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateNov 1, 2018

Scientists identify genes and proteins plants use to redirect nitrogen

Agricultural Research Service scientists have identified key genes and transcription factors in plants that allow them to direct nitrogen to their roots, shoots, flowers, and seed heads. This knowledge may enable the breeding of new plant varieties with improved nitrogen use efficiency.

SourceUS Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service·JournalNature·DateOct 24, 2018
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.

Scientists discover genetic basis for how harmful algae blooms become toxic

Researchers identified a cluster of genes responsible for producing the neurotoxin domoic acid in microscopic plants. The knowledge will allow scientists to track the development of bloom toxicity at the genetic level and predict toxin production before it occurs, helping to mitigate harm from algae blooms.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateSep 28, 2018
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.

Study provides 10-year risk estimates for dementia, which may help with prevention in high-risk individuals who potentially could benefit from early targeted prevention

A Danish study has estimated 10-year absolute risk of dementia by age, sex and common APOE gene variation, identifying high-risk individuals who may benefit from early preventive interventions. The research found that a combination of these factors could lead to a 7-24% risk of developing dementia by age 80.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 4, 2018
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.

Mechanism behind orchid beauty revealed

Researchers at Tohoku University have identified the retrotransposon insertion in a floral homeotic gene responsible for greenish orchid mutations. This discovery paves the way for genetic modification of orchids to produce more flowers.

SourceTohoku University·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateAug 19, 2018