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How genetic diversity could avoid threat of deadly disease in endangered deer

Researchers have found evidence of genetic diversity in the prion protein gene of endangered Eld's deer, which could provide resistance to chronic wasting disease. The study suggests reducing the frequency of a variant associated with the disease and implementing strict management practices to prevent exposure.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Conservation Science·DateOct 11, 2022

Pockets of resistance found in survey of pathogen diversity

A new study found that the detection of resistant variants is only possible using population deep sequencing, suggesting treatment with antibiotics may contribute to their presence. The research highlights the potential for PDS to improve understanding of pathogens like Streptococcus pneumoniae and inform treatment strategies.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 10, 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.

Age vs. genetics: Which is more important for determining how we age?

A University of California, Berkeley study found that aging and environment are more important than genetic variation in affecting gene expression. As individuals age, their gene expression profiles diverge, making genetics less useful in predicting which genes are ramped up or down.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 7, 2022

COVID-19 vaccine developed by Brazilian scientists is ready for clinical trials

A novel COVID-19 vaccine developed by Brazilian scientists combines two SARS-CoV-2 proteins to trigger a cellular immune response. The vaccine, called SpiN, showed promise in animal trials, protecting against three strains of the virus and reducing viral load by up to 50 times.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalNature Communications·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 6, 2022

Dozens more genes linked with stroke; potential drug targets identified

A study published in Nature has identified 61 additional genetic loci associated with stroke and six genes that are potential targets for drug therapy. The research also found a significant overlap between stroke and dementia, suggesting common biology between the two conditions.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalNature·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 5, 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.

Your genes determine whether you get ADHD or autism

Researchers from Aarhus University identified seven genetic variants common to both autism and ADHD, as well as five specific to only one diagnosis. The study suggests a significant overlap in underlying genetic causes and may lead to more precise diagnoses and earlier interventions.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 4, 2022

New genetic variation from old and exotic varieties for environmentally friendly wheat cultivation

Researchers discovered a new genetic variation in old wheat varieties that enhances yield potential and resistance to yellow rust, potentially replacing current elite varieties. The findings also reveal possible new gene variants for resistance to yellow rust infestation, paving the way for more sustainable farming practices.

SourceLeibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research·JournalNature Genetics·DateOct 4, 2022

Disruption of MTSS2 function causes a new syndromic intellectual disability

A study led by Dr. Hugo Bellen has identified a new syndromic intellectual disability caused by a spontaneous mutation in the MTSS2 gene. The research used fruit fly models to investigate the genetic alteration, which resulted in a functionally-altered MTSS2 protein leading to symptoms similar to those seen in patients with the condition.

SourceTexas Children's Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 3, 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.

It may already be too late to meet UN genetic diversity target, but new findings could guide conservation efforts

A study published in Science found that more than one-tenth of the world's terrestrial genetic diversity may already be lost due to climate change and habitat destruction. This could have serious implications for species' ability to adapt to climate change, highlighting the need for urgent conservation efforts.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 22, 2022

Common gene variant linked to COVID mortality

A new study found that mice with the APOE4 gene variant were more likely to die from COVID-19, while those with APOE2 had increased virus replication and inflammation. The researchers also analyzed 13,000 patients in the UK Biobank and found that individuals with two copies of APOE4 or APOE2 were at higher risk of death from COVID-19.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature·DateSep 21, 2022

Rare human gene variant in ADHD, autism exposes fundamental sex differences

A new study reveals key differences in dopamine disposal machinery between male and female mice with a rare human genetic variant found in boys with ADHD or ASD. Females exhibit unique behavioral changes, such as increased anxiety and novelty recognition issues, while males display reduced social behavior and perseverative traits.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2022
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Genetic variants linked to congenital urinary tract obstruction in males

A genome-wide study has identified two genetic variants and structural changes in chromosomes associated with posterior urethral valves, a condition that affects 1 in 4,000 males. The study highlights the importance of including diverse populations in genetic studies to identify genetic contributors to rare conditions.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateSep 20, 2022

Tracking a network of 100,000 mutants

Researchers at OIST Graduate University have experimentally shown the concept of a neutral network, vital for increasing diversity, by designing and testing over 120,000 RNA variants. They found a large number of accessible pathways between two variants, challenging previous theoretical predictions.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 20, 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.

Geisinger to study genetic causes of cerebral palsy

Geisinger Health System is conducting a comprehensive study on the genetic causes of cerebral palsy, funded by a $3.3 million NIH grant. The research aims to identify individual genes and regions responsible for the condition, which affects 1 in 500 people worldwide.

SourceGeisinger Health System·DateSep 14, 2022

New research estimates the overall disease burden of genetic risk factors

New research estimates the overall disease burden of genetic risk factors on healthy life years lost, prioritizing interventions using genetic information. The study found that common genetic variants for cardio-vascular diseases and Alzheimer’s disease have a substantial population-level impact.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Medicine·DateSep 13, 2022

Consortium to map heart disease-causing genetic variations

A consortium of researchers from Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Stanford Medicine, and others aims to create a comprehensive atlas of genetic variants that cause heart disease. The project, funded by the National Health Lung and Blood Institute, will generate data on function for thousands of variants, helping guide treatment fo...

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·DateSep 13, 2022
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.

Family ties: Inherited genetic variants increase risk of Hodgkin lymphoma

Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital studied 36 families affected by Hodgkin lymphoma and identified 44 novel genetic variants linked to cancer predisposition, including PAX5, GATA3, IRF7, EEF2KMT, and POLR1E. The study provides new insights into the disease and may help identify potential targets for new treatments.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalBlood·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 2022
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.

COVID radar: Genetic sequencing can help predict severity of next variant

Researchers at Drexel University have developed a computer model that uses machine learning algorithms to analyze the genetic sequence of the COVID-19 virus and predict the severity of new variants. The model provides an early warning system for public health officials, allowing them to prepare accordingly.

SourceDrexel University·JournalComputers in Biology and Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 1, 2022

Is your blood type linked to your risk of stroke before age 60?

A meta-analysis of genetic studies found a stronger link between blood types A and O and early stroke, suggesting that people with these gene variants may be more likely to develop blood clots leading to stroke. Those with blood type A had an increased risk and those with blood type O had a decreased risk compared to other blood types.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateAug 31, 2022

People with similar faces likely have similar DNA

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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study identifies new dementia risk genes through novel testing approach

A new UCLA-led study has identified multiple new risk genes for Alzheimer's disease and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) by combining new testing methods. The researchers used high-throughput testing to simultaneously test 5,706 genetic variants in 25 loci associated with Alzheimer's and nine loci associated with PSP.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalScience·DateAug 18, 2022

Pathway uncovered for greatest lupus genetic risk factor, study shows

Researchers at Michigan Medicine have discovered a molecular mechanism that drives the disease-causing effects of the most common genetic risk factor for lupus. The study suggests that targeting this new pathway could lead to the development of safe and effective treatments for SLE, an autoimmune disease that affects millions worldwide.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 18, 2022

New SPARK study identifies a novel group of inherited genes of moderate effect and shows their links to other behavioral conditions

Researchers analyzed genetic data from nearly 43,000 people with autism and identified a novel group of inherited genes of moderate effect. The study shows that these genes contribute to autism through inherited variants and are associated with other neurodevelopmental disorders.

SourceSimons Foundation·JournalNature Genetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 18, 2022

Cousin of crop-killing bacteria mutating rapidly

A newly identified species of Liberibacter, a family of bacteria known for causing citrus greening disease, is rapidly evolving its ability to infect insect hosts. The research team found 21 genes associated with infectious qualities and identified mutations affecting pilus proteins that allow the bacteria to move into host insects.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·DateAug 12, 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.

Self-pollinating plant shows rapid loss of genetic variation

A self-pollinating monkeyflower plant lost 13-24% of its genetic variation within nine generations when isolated from bumble bees. This rapid loss of genetic variation could have devastating impacts on the plant's ability to adapt to changing environments, highlighting the importance of pollinators for plant survival.

SourceWashington State University·JournalEvolution·DateAug 10, 2022

​​​​​​​Researchers gain insights into the genetic and molecular machinery that predisposes individuals to Alzheimer's disease

A team of researchers from The Mount Sinai Hospital has made a groundbreaking discovery into the genetic and molecular mechanisms that predispose individuals to Alzheimer's disease. They identified 21 candidate risk genes, including SPI1, which regulates microglia and AD risk.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 5, 2022

Genes involved in heart disease are similar across all populations, VA study finds

A VA study found nearly identical genetic variations contributing to coronary heart disease risk across major racial and ethnic backgrounds. The findings suggest that other factors like access to healthcare contribute to higher heart disease rates in certain populations.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalNature Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 3, 2022
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.

From genes to plant microbiota

A study found that plant genetic variability controls specific microorganisms, influencing microbial community composition and plant reproductive success. The research used Arabidopsis thaliana genotypes and metabarcoding DNA sequencing to analyze the impact of genetics on leaf microbiota.

SourceINRAE - National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 26, 2022

Oncotarget | Role of germline variants in the metastasis of breast carcinomas

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 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.

New genetic associations in pediatric NAFLD affect both risk and severity

Researchers found multiple gene variants contributing to pediatric NAFLD risk and disease severity, including novel SNPs associated with liver fibrosis. These genetic associations may guide future therapeutics for pediatric NAFLD, a chronic childhood disease linked to increased cardiovascular risk and mortality.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalHepatology·DateJun 27, 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.

Scientists discover new genetic disease that delays brain development in children

A new genetic disease has been identified that causes abnormal brain development in children, resulting in severe learning difficulties. Researchers have discovered the underlying cause of the condition by analyzing changes in a protein coding gene called GRIA1, which helps move electrical signals around the brain.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 24, 2022

Choosing the best seeds to help sessile oaks adapt to future climates

A 30-year study by INRAE and ONF identified 34 oak populations with good combinations of traits as seed sources for plantings in France. Seed sources from regions with a long tradition of forestry have the best ecological and silvicultural traits, enabling the species to adapt to climate change.

SourceINRAE - National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment·JournalAnnals of Forest Science·DateJun 20, 2022
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.

Cholesterol-lowering gene changes may increase the risk of cataracts

Research found a link between genetic variants that mimic statin medication effects and increased risk of developing cataracts. Genetic analysis revealed carriers of rare mutations in the HMGCR gene have almost complete protein inhibition, similar to taking statins.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJun 15, 2022

Do our genes determine what we eat?

A new study found that genes tied to perception of five basic tastes may influence diet quality and cardiometabolic risk factors. Researchers identified associations between taste-related genes with specific food groups and risk factors, suggesting personalized nutrition guidance could improve diet quality.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJun 14, 2022

New screening test for those at risk of sudden cardiac arrest

Researchers have created a new electrical test to screen hundreds of gene mutations, pinpointing harmful mutations that cause inherited heart disorders and sudden death. The breakthrough can identify genetic variants associated with neurological conditions, muscle and kidney diseases.

SourceVictor Chang Cardiac Research Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 9, 2022
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 explores the promises and pitfalls of evolutionary genomics

A new study examines mathematical models designed to draw inferences about how evolution operates at the level of populations of organisms. The researchers conclude that such models must be constructed with care, avoiding unwarranted initial assumptions and weighing existing knowledge.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 6, 2022

Height may be risk factor for multiple health conditions

A recent genetic study found a link between height and lower risk of coronary heart disease, as well as higher risk for peripheral neuropathy and circulatory disorders. Being tall appears to protect against cardiovascular problems, but may increase the risk of non-cardiovascular conditions.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalPLOS Genetics·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 2, 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.

Broad spectrum of autism depends on spectrum of genetic factors

A new study reveals that combinations of multiple genetic factors determine the risk and severity of symptoms in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Researchers analyzed 37,375 individuals from 11,213 families to understand how rare mutations and common genetic variation contribute to ASD.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 2, 2022