Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine and Rice University developed a new contamination detection tool called Squeegee to establish reproducibility in microbiome identification. The tool uses computer analysis to detect 'breadcrumbs' of contaminants, improving the accuracy of metagenomic sequencing analysis in low biomass studies.
SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 6, 2022
A new AI evaluation framework, GOPHER, has been developed to assess the efficiency of genome analysis algorithms. The tool judges programs on their ability to learn genomic biology, predict patterns, handle noise, and provide interpretable decisions.
SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateDec 5, 2022
Researchers discover a shared genetic basis between fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) and abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA), with males more likely to develop AAA when a family member has FMD. The study suggests that screening for AAA in male relatives of patients with FMD may be beneficial, along with established guidelines.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCirculation Genomic and Precision Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 1, 2022
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 at UC challenge current timeline for mammoth extinction, citing limitations in dating environmental DNA. The team suggests that the slow decomposition of animals in arctic regions could explain how mammoth DNA is showing up thousands of years later than expected.
SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 30, 2022
A simple breeding experiment identified genes that promote cooperation and higher yields in plant populations. Plants with specific alleles were found to produce 15% more biomass when grown in close proximity, while reducing root competition.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2022
A study published in the Journal of Archaeological Science reveals that a domestic dog lived in the Palaeolithic period 17,000 years ago in the Erralla cave in the Basque Country. The bone remains identified as Canis lupus familiaris, making it one of Europe's most ancient domestic dogs.
SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateNov 25, 2022
A new study on a 525-million-year-old fossil has shed light on the origin and composition of arthropod heads, resolving a century-old debate. The discovery of a delicately preserved nervous system in the fossil of Cardiodictyon catenulum, a tiny sea creature, suggests that the brain and trunk nervous system evolved separately.
SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalScience·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 24, 2022
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.
Scientists at KAUST have identified dynamic regions, called cryptic binding sites, that can be targeted by drugs to treat cancer. The study reveals how molecular motion influences ligand binding to BTB domains, a critical part of many proteins involved in disease.
SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 21, 2022
Researchers found that genetic correlation estimates are confounded by cross-trait assortative mating, a phenomenon where individuals with similar traits mate more frequently. This suggests that some genetic correlations may be inflated and should be re-evaluated for disease risk prediction and therapy development.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalScience·DateNov 17, 2022
Researchers identified genes associated with aggressive clear cell renal carcinoma, a subtype of kidney cancer. Anticoagulant therapies may enhance cancer treatment efficacy. Specific genes involved in blood clotting and insulin transport were found to be linked to disease progression.
SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 16, 2022
A Rice University bioengineer has developed a noninvasive technology to measure gene expression in deep tissues, particularly in the brain. This innovation could improve the monitoring of gene therapy treating neurodegenerative disorders such as epilepsy, ALS, and Huntington's disease.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A new study found that genetic factors may underlie the link between unhealthy teenage behaviors and accelerated biological aging. The research, involving 824 twins, suggests that individuals with high body mass index scores or substance use are more likely to experience rapid aging.
Researchers identified a genetic variant that predisposes people to being slim, carried by 60% of Europeans. The variant affects the amount of fat stored in the body and is associated with the biochemical signalling pathway that tells cells what nutrients are available.
SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalGenome Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2022
A study published in PLOS Genetics found that genetic variants linked to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) may also provide protection against severe COVID-19 infection. The researchers identified TYK2, a gene involved in interferon production, as the key locus behind this protective effect.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·TypeObservational study·DateNov 3, 2022
Researchers developed a novel method to create deep nanochannels in hard and brittle materials like silica, diamond, and sapphire. By employing femtosecond laser direct writing technology, they achieved sub-100-nm feature sizes and ultrahigh aspect ratios.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateNov 2, 2022
Researchers have discovered a newly found protein, CTENO189, that controls the unique locomotion of comb jellies. The protein is essential for the rippling movement of their comb plates, which propels them through the water.
SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 26, 2022
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.
A new study in Cell Systems explores the benefits of using multiple data types in drug discovery. Gene expression and cell morphology provide complementary information for drug prioritization, advancing drug discovery, functional genomics, and precision medicine.
SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalCell Systems·DateOct 24, 2022
Researchers have identified two distinct molecular subgroups of cervical cancer, C1 and C2, which differ in their clinical aggressiveness and response to treatment. The study suggests that determining the subgroup of a patient's cervical cancer could provide additional prognostic information for planning treatment.
SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateOct 21, 2022
A recent study found that alligators in the Cape Fear River basin have elevated levels of PFAS chemicals in their blood serum, leading to clinical and genetic indicators of immune system effects. The research team detected a significant association between PFAS exposure and autoimmune-like phenotypes in the affected alligators.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalFrontiers in Toxicology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 20, 2022
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.
A novel genetic analysis by University of Ottawa researchers reveals that climate change could lead to an increased risk of viral spillover in the High Arctic. This increased risk may result in new viruses infecting previously uninfected hosts, potentially leading to emerging pandemics.
SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 19, 2022
Researchers discovered that plasmids can linger in the nose of lab workers for weeks, interfering with clinical diagnostic tests. The study highlights the importance of considering occupational exposure in diagnosis and treatment.
SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·DateOct 13, 2022
Researchers from the University of Tsukuba have developed a statistical framework called CCPLS that analyzes spatial gene expression data at single-cell resolution. The study found that neighboring cell types influence gene expression variability in ways that were not previously accounted for by existing methods.
SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalBioinformatics·DateOct 7, 2022
Researchers from UTHSC and EPFL identified genetic determinants of longevity, with sex-specific regions and non-genetic effects like early growth and access to food affecting lifespan. The study provides a basis for future therapies targeting aging genes and enhancing healthspan.
SourceUniversity of Tennessee Health Science Center·JournalScience·DateOct 5, 2022
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.
A new research paper has demonstrated that psychological factors, such as feeling unhappy or being lonely, add up to 1.65 years to one's biological age, significantly impacting overall health and longevity.
SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 3, 2022
A study conducted at the University of Zurich has identified a key gene network responsible for severe tooth enamel defects. The researchers found that mutations in the Adam10 molecule lead to disorganization of ameloblasts and severe defects in both structure and mineral composition of enamel.
SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 26, 2022
A new study found that integrating genetic testing into electronic health records (EHRs) significantly reduces clinician workload, with average savings of 45 minutes per day. Clinicians can now order and manage tests directly through the EHR, resulting in reduced time spent on clerical work.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalGenetics in Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateSep 21, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
Researchers at Washington State University identified eight proteins that regulate insulin sensitivity and resistance in hibernating bears, similar to human genes. The discovery could lead to the development of treatments for human diabetes.
SourceWashington State University·JournaliScience·DateSep 21, 2022
A study by Karolinska Institutet found that children with primary immunodeficiency diseases have a higher mortality rate due to COVID-19. Genetic analysis revealed mutations in genes important for immune defense, and some children lacked antibodies to the coronavirus.
SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateSep 16, 2022
A new genomic test can predict a patient's risk of developing severe COVID-19, according to research from the University of Virginia Health System. The test, called CovGENE, analyzes genes expressed in a person's blood to determine if they may experience a severe disease course with increased risk of death.
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.
A mutation in the TMEM163 zinc transporter gene has been definitively linked to hypomyelinating leukodystrophy, a rare and often fatal neurological disorder. The study's findings provide new insights into the role of zinc in normal brain development, injury, and disease.
SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalBrain·DateSep 15, 2022
A recent study by Washington State University researchers has identified distinct genetic patterns among the most prevalent types of canine soft tissue sarcomas, potentially leading to more accurate diagnoses and effective treatments. The findings suggest that a single treatment approach may not be effective for all subtypes of the tumor.
SourceWashington State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 14, 2022
A new software application predicts the likelihood that a case of dilated cardiomyopathy has a genetic mutation. The Madrid Genotype Score identifies patients most likely to have inherited the disease, facilitating genetic screening and tailored treatment adjustments.
SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 12, 2022
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.
Threespine stickleback fish evolved resistance to freshwater tapeworms by forming scar tissue around them, which prevents the worms from growing. However, this defense has a significant fitness cost for female sticklebacks, as they are 80% less likely to successfully breed due to the accumulated scarring.
SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 2022
Researchers found two distinct populations of the invasive American bullfrog in Brazil, one descended from 1935 introductions and another from the 1970s. The study highlights the need for law enforcement to prevent escape from frog farms.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 8, 2022
Researchers have identified eight new species of tiny brown geckos in Madagascar's rainforests, expanding our understanding of their distribution and evolution. The discovery highlights the importance of continued sampling across the region to uncover new species.
SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalZootaxa·DateSep 1, 2022
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.
Researchers suggest a new approach for regulating genetically engineered (GE) crops by examining the specific characteristics of the crop itself. The '-omics' methods can be used to scan new crop varieties for unexpected DNA changes, eliminating the need for safety testing if the product is substantially equivalent to existing varieties.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 1, 2022
A study found that genetic testing before pregnancy can detect the risk of severe developmental disorders in 44% of cases if parents are related. However, non-hereditary mutations play a larger role in children of non-consanguineous couples, and many genes remain undetected.
SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalGenomic Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 30, 2022
A new study from USC researchers uncovers the sequence of early molecular changes caused by APOE4, a discovery that may help identify potential treatment targets in the brain's blood vessels. The research reveals problems with the blood-brain barrier and synapses, leading to behavioral deficits and cognitive dysfunction.
SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 30, 2022
Researchers identified a group of Ashkenazi Jews who fell victim to antisemitic violence during the 12th century, shedding new light on Jewish medical history in Europe. The study suggests that a bottleneck event shaped the modern-day Ashkenazi Jewish population prior to the 12th century, earlier than previously believed.
SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 30, 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.
Researchers have discovered the oldest clinical case of Klinefelter Syndrome in a 1,000-year-old skeleton from Portugal, providing new insights into the prevalence of the condition throughout human history. The study used a combination of genetic, statistical, and anthropological analysis to confirm the diagnosis.
SourceAustralian National University·JournalThe Lancet·TypeObservational study·DateAug 26, 2022
A new study sheds light on the ancestry of manatees, tracing their evolution back 47 million years to northern Africa. The research suggests that modern manatees migrated from South America to the Caribbean and North America around 34 million years ago, with some species thriving in communities for millions of years.
SourceDuke University·JournalPeerJ·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 25, 2022
Researchers discovered the Griffin Warrior likely grew up near the seaside city he would rule and was from wealthier social status. Ancient DNA analysis showed that around 5,000 years ago, people with ancestry from Eastern Europe spread across the European continent and into Western Asia.
SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 25, 2022
A study of 137 children with early-onset psychosis found that over 70% had copy number variants, a common cause of neurodevelopmental disorders. The research suggests that chromosomal microarray testing can bring closure to families and improve treatment outcomes.
SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateAug 24, 2022
A study by OIST Graduate University's Marine Biophysics Unit found that mangroves in the Ryukyu Islands have limited connectivity, making it crucial to protect isolated forests. The research used genetics and oceanography to track propagule dispersal, revealing rare genetic exchanges between islands.
SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeObservational study·DateAug 24, 2022
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.
Researchers discovered that pairs of unrelated 'look-alikes' share similar genetic variations, physical characteristics, and even behavior. Genome-wide analyses found common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in nine out of 16 pairs, with similarities in weights and lifestyle factors.
SourceJosep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 2022
A study found that genetically unrelated individuals with extreme facial similarities share common genetic variants, but differ in epigenetic and microbiome landscapes. The results suggest a molecular basis for human resemblance, with potential implications in forensics and biomedicine.
SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 2022
A large-scale study by the University of Exeter found that incorporating genetic risk into GP triage processes can improve referrals for those in need, while avoiding unnecessary invasive biopsy investigations for those at low risk. This approach has the potential to significantly impact prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment.
SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·DateAug 17, 2022
A Rutgers scientist has developed a highly sensitive DNA test that can detect Lyme disease in horses, a condition that can cause long-term complications. The test, called genomic hybrid capture assay, was tested on a sick horse and successfully identified the pathogen, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment.
SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2022
A new species of Bathynomus, a type of deep-sea isopod, has been discovered in the Gulf of Mexico. The new species, B. yucatanensis, is around 26cm long and has unique features such as slender body proportions and longer antennae.
SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Natural History·DateAug 9, 2022
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 massive analysis of over 10,000 Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates revealed new genes associated with resistance to 13 antibiotics. The study provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the genetic mechanisms of resistance and identifying diagnostic gaps.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2022
Researchers discovered distinct genetic mutations in heart failure patients, identifying potential targets for personalized treatment and improving patient care. The study's findings hold enormous potential for rethinking how to treat heart failure by understanding its root causes and the mutations that lead to changes in heart function.
SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2022
Researchers at TUM have developed a cell-free production method for bacteriophages, which can be used to target and combat specific types of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The new technology has the potential to produce personalized therapeutic phages for clinical trials, addressing multi-resistant germ infections.
SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateJul 28, 2022
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.
Researchers analyzed ancient proteins in high-status Viking graves to identify beaver fur, supporting the idea that it was a luxury item. The discovery suggests that wearing exotic fur was an obvious visual statement of affluence and social status during the Viking Age.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateJul 27, 2022
A Spanish study combines genetic and imaging data to predict patient prognosis, identifying those at risk of malignant arrhythmias or severe complications. The findings open the way for personalized medicine in treating dilated cardiomyopathy.
SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalEuropean Journal of Heart Failure·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 26, 2022
A study published in the American Heart Association's Hypertension journal found a significant association between frequent napping and an increased risk of high blood pressure and ischemic stroke. The researchers analyzed data from over 360,000 participants and suggested that naps may not be enough to make up for poor sleep at night.
SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalHypertension·DateJul 25, 2022
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that adopting a healthy cardiovascular lifestyle can significantly lower the risk of stroke, even for people at high genetic risk. The study used data from over 11,500 adults and estimated lifetime stroke risk based on polygenic risk scores.
SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJul 20, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
A world-first study has confirmed the link between Alzheimer's Disease and multiple gut disorders, revealing shared genetic architecture. The study suggests that abnormal cholesterol levels play a key role in both conditions, and may lead to new potential treatments for Alzheimer's and gut disorders.
SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeObservational study·DateJul 18, 2022
Researchers found evidence of how destructive proteins attack human brain cells and destroy surrounding tissue. The study identified a pivotal mechanism that could be a potential therapy for the disease.
SourceRutgers University·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJul 15, 2022
A groundbreaking study by Hebrew University researchers has discovered the most primitive blueprint for embryo cell creation. The team identified 14,000 sites in the DNA that control the development of all embryonic organs.
SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateJul 14, 2022
Researchers analyzed germline variants in breast cancer patients to identify their role in metastasis development. The study found that host genetic makeup contributes to metastasis through dysregulation of gene expression, promoting the dispersion of metastatic seeds and establishing a conducive environment for their growth.
SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 13, 2022
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.