Researchers developed a computational method to link individuals in ancestry databases to those in law-enforcement databases, achieving accurate matches for over 30% of close relatives. The approach could have significant implications for forensic genetics and genomic privacy.
A new study published in The BMJ suggests that genetics play a significantly larger role in the development of high serum urate levels than diet. Despite long-held assumptions about diet's impact on gout, researchers found that only a small percentage of variation in urate levels could be explained by food choices.
A massive genetic analysis of over one million people has revealed 535 new genes linked to high blood pressure. The discovery sheds light on new biological pathways for blood pressure regulation and holds promise for improved cardiovascular disease prevention.
SourceLancaster University·JournalNature Genetics·DateOct 8, 2018
A study on scarab beetles found that horns developed from the same head regions, with common genes controlling their formation. The research suggests deep parallels in horn evolution between distant species.
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.
A new poll by Michigan Medicine found that over half of older adults (50-64) are interested in DNA testing to guide medical care, understand health risks or know their ancestry. However, two-thirds expressed concern that genetic testing could lead to worrying about future health.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateOct 1, 2018
The Brigham Genomic Medicine program uses state-of-the-art genomic technologies to diagnose and discover genetic underpinnings of disease. By analyzing genomic data with a multidisciplinary team, the program has identified culprit genes for 30 families, providing critical information for diagnostics and treatment.
SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalGenomic Medicine·DateSep 17, 2018
Researchers identified six main combinations of five Hoxd genes involved in digit development in mice, providing a higher resolution and clarity in understanding how architect genes orchestrate the rhythm of development. This study offers a new perspective on limb patterning motifs and could pave the way for future genetic work.
SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalBMC Biology·DateSep 17, 2018
The Center for Sub-Cellular Genomics will develop new technologies to measure genomics elements at the scale of sub-cellular structures in single cells. This may enable new insights into neurogenerative and neuropsychiatric conditions, such as autism and Alzheimer's disease.
The study reveals that at least 11 individuals were likely male and that burial rites were sex-biased. The site is divided into two groups, with Niederstotzingen North showing kinship structure similar to modern northern and eastern European populations.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 5, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Researchers identified 42 locations associated with 99 genes of interest in a genome-wide association study of over 500,000 people. The analysis found genes related to connective tissue cells and pathways, which could inform the development of new treatments for diverticulitis.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Genetics·DateSep 4, 2018
Researchers outline a novel view of biochemistry as a signaling game between genes and their associated macromolecules, where sender and receiver interactions lead to biochemical reactions. This approach reveals the presence of molecular deception and conflict of interest between gene players, with potential implications for understand...
SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateSep 4, 2018
Researchers have identified KIN3 as a crucial enzyme connecting cellular signalling pathways involved in fungal developmental processes. The study found that mutants lacking this enzyme were sterile and exhibited developmental disorders.
SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalGenetics·DateSep 4, 2018
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 found that e-cigarette users experience increased DNA damage related to acrolein exposure, which could increase their cancer risk. The study suggests that vaping may modify the genetic material in oral cells, highlighting the need for further research on the long-term health effects of e-cigarettes.
A new assay has been developed to detect genetic abnormalities in sarcomas, which outperform conventional techniques in analysis of multiple target genes simultaneously. The assay was validated on 81 samples and showed high sensitivity, allowing for accurate diagnosis even in small sample sizes.
SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateAug 20, 2018
A new method for screening frogs has been developed by an undergraduate researcher, allowing scientists to detect the deadly pathogen Perkinsea. The test, using qPCR assay, found that 25% of sampled frogs were infected, with the highest prevalence in Gold Head Branch State Park.
SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalDiseases of Aquatic Organisms·DateAug 14, 2018
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.
Researchers at Caltech developed an artificial neural network made of DNA that can accurately identify handwritten numbers. The network, designed by Kevin Cherry, uses a 'winner take all' competitive strategy and undergoes complex reactions to classify molecular information.
SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateJul 4, 2018
A team of researchers at RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science has discovered a gene in plants called Heat Inducible Lipase 1 (HIL1) that helps protect them from excessive heat. This gene enables plants to modify their fats, which stabilize chloroplast membranes and prevent damage from high temperatures.
Research found people selectively identify with ethnicities they view as positive while disregarding others. White respondents were more likely to embrace new racial identities if they felt others would still accept them.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalAmerican Journal of Sociology·DateJun 28, 2018
Researchers at the University of Washington found that measuring beak size can accurately determine the sex of Galapagos penguins, a simple and fast method for field studies. This knowledge will help scientists study the impact of climate change on this endangered species.
SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalEndangered Species Research·DateJun 27, 2018
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.
Researchers analyzed data from three major brain banks and found that human herpesvirus DNA and RNA were more abundant in the brains of Alzheimer's patients. The study suggests that viruses may be involved in regulating genes associated with increased Alzheimer's risk, and could offer potential new paths for treatment.
Researchers developed a new blood test that uses Raman spectroscopy to estimate the age of victims and suspects. The test was able to distinguish between different age groups with high accuracy, making it a potentially useful addition to current forensic science techniques.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateJun 20, 2018
A new DNA test has identified 63 genetic variations that increase the risk of prostate cancer, with men inheriting these variants having a 5.7 times higher risk. The test combines multiple genetic variants to predict individual risk, offering hope for early detection and prevention.
SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 11, 2018
The study found that matching targeted therapies to tumor-specific gene mutations improved progression-free and overall survival in patients with advanced disease. Receiving matched targeted therapy was also an independent factor for predicting longer overall survival.
SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·DateJun 2, 2018
The mountain gorilla population in the Virunga Volcanoes has more than doubled over the past three decades due to concerted conservation efforts. A recent census found a minimum of 604 gorillas, representing a 26% increase from the previous estimate in 2010.
SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·DateMay 31, 2018
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.
A study analyzing ancient Icelandic genomes of 25 individuals from the island's colonization period (870-930) found that present-day Icelanders have a 70% Norwegian genetic fingerprint. The analysis also revealed a gender bias in the population, with men of Scandinavian origin having more offspring than women of Celtic origin.
SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalScience·DateMay 31, 2018
A new study presents a novel statistical algorithm called GSA-SNP2 that can identify potential disease genes more accurately and cost-effectively. The algorithm is effective with less genomic data and provides high power and decent type I error control.
SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateMay 26, 2018
By analyzing ancient DNA from Southeast Asian individuals, scientists identified two major waves of genetic mixture indicative of specific migration events. These migrations, occurring during the Neolithic period and Bronze Age, reflect the introduction of farming and cultural shifts in the region.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 17, 2018
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 team of scientists found four separate species of mice evolved from one common ancestor on Mindoro Island, which is the smallest known island to support this type of evolution. The discovery provides valuable insights into how mammals can diversify in small areas and has implications for conservation planning.
SourceField Museum·JournalJournal of Biogeography·DateMay 15, 2018
A study published in Nature Communications has found an unexpected overlap between the causes of rheumatoid arthritis and Huntington's disease. The researchers developed a novel algorithm to analyze epigenetic data, identifying new cell signaling pathways and potential treatment options for both conditions.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 15, 2018
A new tool can predict a person's eye, hair, and skin color from a small DNA sample, providing a physical description. The HIrisPlex-S system is capable of predicting all three pigment traits simultaneously using freely available webtool.
SourceIndiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis School of Science·DateMay 14, 2018
Researchers discovered that altered body odor can indicate malaria infection, even when microscopic tests fail. Machine learning models using volatile biomarkers reliably identify asymptomatic infections with 100% sensitivity.
SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 14, 2018
The Massachusetts Public Health Department has received a $100,000 grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to subsidize tick testing for residents. The program aims to track the incidence and spread of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses in the state.
SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateMay 8, 2018
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.
A new genetic analysis reveals that two male whales fathered over half of the calves born since 1990, indicating inbreeding in the Southern Resident killer whale population. The limited breeding number reduces the population's resilience to change, potentially compromising individual animals' survival.
SourceNOAA Fisheries West Coast Region·JournalAnimal Conservation·DateApr 24, 2018
The researchers created a systems biology model that mimics the process of wood formation, allowing them to predict the effects of modifying multiple genes involved in lignin biosynthesis. This model will speed up the engineering of trees for specific needs in timber, biofuel, pulp, and paper applications.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 20, 2018
EPFL scientists have joined the Human Cell Atlas initiative, a global project mapping every type of cell in the human body. The team developed an automated single-cell analysis pipeline, enabling non-expert labs to engage in high-level genomic research.
SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·DateApr 19, 2018
Researchers discovered genetic and epigenetic changes in humans and chimpanzees that increase the fight-or-flight response, a trait more common in species with warfare history. These adaptations may have played a role in shaping human warfare.
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.
A common version of the FGF21 gene is associated with lower total body fat despite increasing carbohydrate intake, according to a new study. The gene variant also redistributes fat to the upper body, where it may cause harm.
Many forensic methods used in criminal cases lack scientific backing, and traditional pattern-matching methods continue to be used despite insufficient understanding of their accuracy and reliability. Experts hope that by drawing attention to the problem, they can inspire reforms, such as mandatory empirical testing of admissible methods.
SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 9, 2018
A new study by UCSF researchers has identified two previously unrecognized genetic risks associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia. The findings suggest that these diseases share genetic similarities, but differ in their impact on brain function.
SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateApr 9, 2018
A multinational team led by Universidad de San Martin de Porres analyzed DNA of modern Inka descendants to reconstruct their ancestry. The study found two patrilineal clusters linked to the Lake Titicaca and Southern Cusco region, supporting long-held myths about the Incas' origins.
SourceUniversidad de San Martin de Porres·JournalMolecular Genetics and Genomics·DateApr 6, 2018
A large international study used neuroimaging techniques to analyze the brains of over 3,800 volunteers with different types of epilepsy. The study found that all four epilepsy subgroups displayed atrophy in sensitive-motor cortex and frontal lobe regions.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBrain·DateApr 4, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
Researchers have created a statistical analysis software called scImpute to handle RNA sequencing dropouts and improve the accuracy of measuring gene expression in individual cells. The tool uses information from similar cells to make educated guesses about gene abundance, providing more reliable results.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 3, 2018
A recent study found no correlation between nematode species and their microbial profiles, contradicting previous findings in other organisms. The researchers discovered a diverse range of microbial associations with nematodes, including parasites and bacteria involved in nutrient cycling.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateApr 3, 2018
A recent study published in JCI Insight suggests that analysis of microbial DNA and RNA can predict hospitalizations for patients with cirrhosis with high accuracy. The researchers found that these analyses can identify beneficial bacteria and detect pathogenic bacteria, which are linked to inflammation and infection.
SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalJCI Insight·DateMar 30, 2018
Researchers at UCSF and Stanford University sequence the genome of a mysterious skeleton, nicknamed 'Ata', revealing rare genetic mutations associated with dwarfism and bone growth disorders. The analysis highlights the power of open-source genetic data in enabling precise diagnoses.
SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalGenome Research·DateMar 22, 2018
Researchers discover bassoon gene mutations associated with a rare brain disorder, PSP-like symptoms, and cognitive decline. The study highlights the importance of analyzing BSN gene mutations in patients with neurological disorders.
SourceHokkaido University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 22, 2018
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 found oral pathogens in colon specimens of polybacterial-infected mice, affecting the microbiome and NO synthesis. The study suggests a link between periodontitis and colon health, potentially impacting motility and antioxidant defenses.
SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateMar 22, 2018
Researchers found that altering Cdk5 activity made the brains of flies appear genetically older and their bodies to be about 20 days old. The study suggests that neurodegenerative disorders may accelerate the aging process, leading to earlier death and cognitive decline in affected individuals.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalDisease Models & Mechanisms·DateMar 14, 2018
An international team analyzed ancient genomes of 40 early medieval people from southern Germany, revealing a diverse genetic profile among women with artificially deformed skulls. Genetic analysis points to eastern European origins and suggests long-range female mobility bridging cultural spaces.
SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 13, 2018
Genomic analyses of fossil remains from 5th and 6th century AD sites in southern Germany uncover evidence of female-biased immigration in Early Medieval Bavaria. Women with artificial cranial deformation (ACD) show predominantly Southeast European ancestry, while one individual exhibits East Asian genetic markers.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 12, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
A new study suggests that native pine martens are suppressing invasive gray squirrel populations, allowing native red squirrel populations to recover. Exposure to pine martens has a strong negative effect on gray squirrel numbers, while having a positive impact on red squirrels.
SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateMar 6, 2018
Researchers have identified a new tardigrade species Macrobiotus shonaicus sp. nov from East Asia, characterized by its solid egg surface and flexible filaments, placing it in the persimilis subgroup within the hufelandi complex. This new discovery increases the number of known tardigrade species from Japan to 168.
Massive data analysis reveals that seasonal flu outbreaks originate in the southern and southeastern US, moving northward. The models incorporate health claims, weather, geography, and Twitter data to track the spread of influenza.
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.
A genome-wide association study identified a new genetic alteration, RGMA variant, linked to opioid dependence in European-Americans. The study provides insight into the biological origins of opioid dependence and may lead to novel pharmacological approaches for treatment.
SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateFeb 22, 2018
A study by researchers at the University of Chicago found that duplicate copies of a gene in fruit flies evolved separate male- and female-specific functions, resolving competing demands between sexes. These changes occurred rapidly, with the genes specializing relatively quickly.
SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateFeb 19, 2018
Newborn naked mole rats display developmental senescence in various tissues, including hair follicles, nail beds, and skin dermis. Oncogene-induced and DNA damage-induced senescence occur in embryonic and skin fibroblasts, suggesting cellular senescence is not eliminated with evolution.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 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.
Researchers used human disease pedigrees to identify genetic causes of complex diseases like multiple myeloma, finding two gene regions involved in DNA repair and packaging. This new method demonstrates the potential for pinning down genes contributing to other complex diseases, such as obesity and Alzheimer's.
A study by Kyoto University has found that certain 'mechanosensitive' genes are suppressed when exposed to audible sound. The effects vary depending on the cell type, with some cells showing significant suppression while others show little response.
Researchers used a novel lab-on-a-chip to study gene regulation in single E. coli bacteria under changing environmental conditions. The chip allows for the precise growth and behavior of individual bacteria to be tracked over several days, revealing new insights into bacterial adaptation strategies.
SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 31, 2018
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.
The new guidelines update the 2013 recommendations to include genetic alterations driving lung cancer and new drugs to target these alterations. Testing for ROS1 in all cases of lung adenocarcinoma is now recommended, as well as using circulating tumor DNA and cytology specimens when tissue is unavailable.
SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalArchives of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine·DateJan 30, 2018