Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Wrasses dazzle: how fairy wrasses got their flamboyant colours

A new study reveals that fairy wrasses' diverged in form and colour after repeated sea level rises and falls during the last ice age, driven by an 'evolutionary arms race' to court females and chase off rival males. The research used a novel genome-wide dataset to reconstruct the fish's evolutionary history.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalSystematic Biology·DateMar 1, 2021

Vitamin D deficiency does not increase risk of type 1 diabetes

A recent study published in PLOS Medicine found that genetically determined vitamin D levels do not have a large effect on risk of type 1 diabetes among Europeans. The researchers used a Mendelian randomization design to examine the causal effect of vitamin D levels on the disease.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateFeb 25, 2021
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.

Many genes associated with the risk of coronary artery disease act through the liver

A new study reveals that over one third of genetic variants associated with coronary artery disease regulate liver-specific genes involved in cholesterol metabolism. Researchers pinpoint the causal single nucleotide polymorphisms and target genes mediating the risk, expanding our understanding of the disease's mechanisms.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateFeb 24, 2021

A sleep disorder associated with shift work may affect gene function

Researchers investigated dynamic changes to DNA methylation in shift workers, finding that rest and recovery can restore gene function. The study suggests that insufficient sleep and related inflammatory consequences may mediate shift work disorder, highlighting the importance of sufficient rest for overall health.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 22, 2021

First multi-whole-genome study of IBD in African Americans

African Americans have a distinct genetic risk landscape for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), with specific genes contributing to risk, according to the first whole-genome study. The study identified rare genetic variants and highlights the need for personalized approaches to IBD treatment.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateFeb 19, 2021
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.

Genes for face shape identified

A UCL-led team discovered 32 gene regions affecting facial features such as nose and lip shapes. The analysis of over 6,000 volunteers found that one gene, TBX15, was inherited from the Denisovans, an extinct group of ancient humans.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 5, 2021

Epigenomic map reveals circuitry of 30,000 human disease regions

A comprehensive epigenome map has been created, revealing genetic control elements linked to hundreds of human traits. The researchers identified 300 modules controlling specific biological processes and predicted links between control elements and target genes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateFeb 3, 2021

Genetic analysis of symptoms yields new insights into PTSD

A recent study analyzing over 250,000 genomes identifies genetic similarities between PTSD and other mental health disorders, including anxiety and bipolar disorder. The research also suggests that certain medications used for other conditions may be effective in treating individual symptoms of multiple disorders.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 28, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Humanizing yeast ORC sheds light on cancer therapy and human development

Researchers have discovered a 19-amino acid insertion helix in the Orc4 subunit of yeast ORC that enables human-like DNA binding, transforming yeast into a humanized ORC. This finding provides new insights for cancer therapy and human development, including potential targets for anti-cancer drug screening.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 27, 2021

Study finds genetic clues to pneumonia risk and COVID-19 disparities

Researchers identified genetic factors increasing pneumonia risk in patients of European and African ancestry, highlighting potential disparities in COVID-19 outcomes. The study may aid efforts to identify high-risk patients and develop targeted treatments.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJan 21, 2021

Specific genes increase the risk of bedwetting

A large-scale study has found specific genetic variants that increase the risk of nocturnal enuresis, commonly known as bedwetting. The study provides new insights into the processes causing this widespread phenomenon and highlights the importance of genetic factors in its development.

SourceAarhus University·JournalThe Lancet Child & Adolescent Health·DateJan 19, 2021
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.

Inferring human genomes at a fraction of the cost promises to boost biomedical research

A new statistical method called GLIMPSE allows for the inference of complete human genomes from small amounts of data, providing a cost-effective alternative to current approaches. This enables researchers to analyze understudied populations and uncover associations in complex traits such as Alzheimer's disease, cancer, and obesity.

SourceSwiss Institute of Bioinformatics·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 13, 2021

Long-term study finds dozens of new genetic markers associated with lifetime bone growth

A long-term study has discovered dozens of new genetic markers associated with bone mineral accrual, which could help identify causes of osteoporosis earlier in life through genetic testing. The findings suggest that risk of fractures occurring later in life may be identifiable in childhood and could lead to tailored interventions.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalGenome Biology·DateJan 6, 2021
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.

Historical bias overlooks genes related to COVID-19

A new study by Northwestern University researchers found that historical bias affects COVID-19 research, with only 611 out of 2,064 relevant genes being studied. The study highlights the need to explore understudied genes and broaden scientific study beyond current trends.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateNov 24, 2020

Genetic determinants of fertility and ongoing natural selection in humans

A recent study has identified genetic variants associated with reproductive success, which may provide insights into the biology of fertility and infertility. The research found that diverse biological mechanisms contribute to reproductive success, implicating both neuroendocrine and behavioral influences.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·DateOct 29, 2020
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.

CHOP genomic study reveals role for hypothalamus in inflammatory bowel disease

Genetic correlations between IBD, stress, and depression have been uncovered through 3D genomic mapping, implicating the hypothalamus in IBD pathogenesis. The study found enrichment of IBD-associated genetic variants in hypothalamic-like neurons and colonoids.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateOct 29, 2020

Insights into the genetic architecture of penicillin allergy

A genome-wide association study identified a significant signal from the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) region on chromosome 6, specifically the HLA-B *55:01 allele, associated with a 33% higher relative odds of penicillin allergy. This finding is based on self-reported data and electronic health records of over 1 million individuals.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·DateOct 26, 2020
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.

Big babies could be at higher risk of common heart rhythm disorder in adulthood

Research suggests that individuals born with high birth weights may be at higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation later in life. A study found that participants with a birth weight 482 grams above the average were 30% more likely to develop the heart rhythm disorder. The researchers recommend adopting a healthy lifestyle and payi...

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateOct 18, 2020

There's a gene for detecting that fishy smell, olfactory GWAS shows

Researchers found sequence variants that influence how people perceive and describe fish, licorice, and cinnamon odors. The study identified three genes, including TAAR5, which affects perception of fish odor containing trimethylamine, as well as common olfactory gene variants influencing licorice and cinnamon sensitivity.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 8, 2020

160 genes linked to brain shrinkage in study of 45,000 adults

A study of 45,000 healthy adults found associations between 160 genes and brain shrinkage in the cortex, a dimply outer layer of the brain. The findings may lead to new targets for developing drugs to intervene before disease symptoms appear.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 25, 2020
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.

Dental anomaly and body size variation in dogs

A study found genetic variants associated with a dental anomaly and smaller body size in dogs, particularly in toy breeds. These variants affect the processing of growth hormone and RNA enzymes, leading to reduced height and weight.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 21, 2020

Researchers discover gene that could decrease likelihood of developing alcoholic cirrhosis

A new study published in Hepatology has identified a gene, Fas Associated Factor Family Member 2 (FAF2), that may reduce the risk of developing alcoholic cirrhosis. The researchers found that this gene is involved in lipid droplet organization pathway and is linked to other genes that increase the likelihood of liver disease.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalHepatology·DateSep 11, 2020
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.

Female chromosomes offer resilience to Alzheimer's

Women with Alzheimer's live longer and experience less severe symptoms due to the protective effects of their second X chromosome. The study found that women carrying a specific variant of the KDM6A gene have twice the dose of protective proteins, giving them greater protection against the disease.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 26, 2020

Change isn't a good thing for Japanese rheumatoid arthritis patients

A study published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases identified a genetic variant associated with an increased risk of interstitial lung disease among Japanese rheumatoid arthritis patients. The variant, located in the RPA3 gene, is linked to fibrosis and triggers complications in RA patients.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateAug 9, 2020

Allelic imbalance of chromatin openness is linked to neuropsychiatric disorders

Researchers identified thousands of potentially functional SNPs associated with changes in gene expression, highlighting the unique value of using iPSC-derived neurons as a model. The study advances understanding of genetic causes of neuropsychiatric disorders and offers a path to novel disease treatments.

SourceNorthShore University HealthSystem·JournalScience·DateAug 3, 2020
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.

Why is stroke so deadly for people of African descent?

A large international study identified key genetic contributors to stroke risk in individuals of African ancestry, providing insight into ethnic-specific and global risk factors. The study found that a common variation near the HNF1A gene was strongly associated with increased stroke risk.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalStroke·DateAug 3, 2020

Stretches of repeating DNA predispose to systemic sclerosis

A study by University of Tsukuba researchers found that patients with long stretches of repeat DNA sequences in the FLI1 gene are more likely to develop systemic sclerosis. The study suggests that these genetic variations may disrupt FLI1 expression, contributing to the disease's pathogenesis.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalRheumatology·DateAug 3, 2020

Can high-quality coral genomes be used to predict bleaching events?

Researchers used high-quality coral genomes to study variable responses to climate change and identify genetic variants associated with bleaching. They found a polygenic risk score could predict bleaching potential in the wild, while also revealing genetic diversity in heat stress response genes.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 16, 2020

CHOP-pioneered spatial mapping method pinpoints potential new therapeutic targets in lupus

A team of researchers from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia used a new method to pinpoint potential disease-causing changes in the genome and identified two new potential therapeutic targets for lupus. The study focused on follicular helper T cells and created three-dimensional maps that match variants with genes they likely regulate.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 8, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Researchers identify distinct subtypes of polycystic ovary syndrome with novel genetic associations

Researchers identified reproductive and metabolic subtypes of PCOS associated with novel gene regions, promising to transform understanding of the disorder. The study used clustering of clinical, metabolic, and hormonal data from women with PCOS, revealing two distinct subtypes with different genetic architectures.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 23, 2020
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.

Sex differences in participation in large-scale genetic studies may affect results

A recent study analyzing data from over three million individuals found widespread sex-differential participation bias, suggesting that men and women are more likely to participate in genetic studies based on different characteristics. This bias can impact the accuracy of results and conclusions drawn from genetic association studies.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Genetics·DateJun 7, 2020

Ancient genomic insights into the early peopling of the Caribbean

A new study using ancient DNA found at least three population dispersals that brought people to the Caribbean, challenging traditional views of the region's early settlement. The researchers also discovered biological and cultural diversity among the early settlers.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalScience·DateJun 4, 2020

Eat less and live a long healthy life? Study shows 'not in all cases'

Research involving 160 genetically distinct strains of fruit flies found that while dietary restriction extended lifespan, its effect on healthspan was less consistent. The study suggests that healthspan, rather than just lifespan, should be the primary focus for those seeking to improve aging outcomes.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 4, 2020

Duality Technologies researchers accelerate privacy-enhanced collaboration on genomic data

Researchers detail accurate privacy-enhanced genome-wide association studies of over 25,000 individuals using homomorphic encryption to yield results 30 times faster than prior secure computation methods. The technology enables collaboration on large-scale genomic and clinical studies while protecting individual participant privacy.

SourceDuality Technologies·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 14, 2020
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.

Ancient Andes, analyzed

An international team analyzed genome-wide data from 89 ancient individuals in the central Andes, revealing early genetic distinctions between groups, population mixing, and surprising genetic continuity. The study provides a comprehensive portrait of pre-Columbian Andean civilizations.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateMay 7, 2020

New genetic markers of type 2 diabetes identified in East Asians

A large-scale study has identified 301 distinct genetic links to type 2 diabetes among 433,540 East Asian individuals. The findings provide insight into the biological basis of the chronic metabolic disorder and highlight the importance of studying different ancestries.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalNature·DateMay 6, 2020

First-in-kind study reveals genetic markers of type 2 diabetes in East Asians

A large-scale genome-wide study has identified 301 distinct genetic signals associated with type 2 diabetes in East Asians. The research highlights the importance of studying different ancestries and expands the number of genetic variants linked to the disease, providing new insights into its pathophysiology.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature·DateMay 6, 2020
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.

Study reveals an inherited origin of prostate cancer in families

Researchers analyzed DNA haplotypes associated with hereditary prostate cancer (HPC) and found that one mutation increased risk by 22-fold. The study identified 183 variants linked to HPC at genome-wide significance, shedding light on the genetic factors contributing to disease.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 23, 2020

Scientists create tool to detect genes associated with psychiatric, brain diseases

Researchers created H-MAGMA, a computational tool that links non-coding genetic variants to their target genes in brain disorders. The study found that genes associated with psychiatric disorders are typically expressed early in life, while neurodegenerative disorder-associated genes are expressed later.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMar 9, 2020