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Study challenges widely held belief that gout is primarily caused by diet

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.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateOct 10, 2018

Largest ever genetic study of blood pressure

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
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.

Clinical gene discovery program solves 30 medical mysteries

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

The gene code of growing limbs

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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Genome-wide study identifies genes linked to diverticular disease

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 game-theory approach to better understand genetics

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

Sexual development in fungi

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.

E-cigarettes can damage DNA

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.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 20, 2018

Scientists get new tool to track new pathogen killing frogs

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.

Test tube artificial neural network recognizes 'molecular handwriting'

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

Summer fun: How plants beat the heat

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.

SourceRIKEN·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateJul 4, 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.

Prostate cancer DNA test identifies men with six-fold increased risk

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

Number of wild mountain gorillas exceeds 1,000

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.

New method for finding disease-susceptibility genes

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

When farmers migrated to southeast Asia, according to the DNA

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.

Worm-eating mice reveal how evolution works on islands

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

Joint resolution: A link between Huntington's disease and rheumatoid arthritis

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

Altered body odor indicates malaria even if microscope doesn't

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
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.

Killer whale genetics raise inbreeding questions

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

Wood formation model to fuel progress in bioenergy, paper, new applications

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
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.

Scientists decry lack of science in 'forensic science'

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

UCSF researcher identifies risk genes for ALS

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

An international study is the first large survey on epilepsy

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.

Microbiome study suggests marine nematodes are not picky eaters

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

Once-mysterious 'Atacama Skeleton' illuminates genetics of bone disease

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

The bassoon causing new brain disorder

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.

Effects of periodontitis on the colon microbiome

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

NIH scientists search for the clocks behind aging brain disorders

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

New insights into the origin of elongated heads in early medieval Germany

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

Female migration in Medieval Bavaria

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.

New tardigrade species Macrobiotus shonaicus sp. nov. identified in Japan

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.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 28, 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.

Duplicate genes help animals resolve sexual conflict

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

Cellular senescence in naked mole rats

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.

Cells rockin' in their DNA

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.

SourceKyoto University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 31, 2018

Lab-on-a-chip for tracking single bacterial cells

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.

Expert panel issues new guidelines for lung cancer molecular testing

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