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Tissue samples show the deep genetic and cellular impacts of smoking

A new study from the University of Chicago analyzed DNA methylation in tissue samples from former smokers, finding evidence of the body's attempts to defend itself from tobacco smoke. The research team identified new regions associated with smoking and found that DNA methylation varies dramatically across cell types and tissue types.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 14, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Becoming human: An ancient genome perspective

The study of ancient genomes has shed light on the evolution of modern humans, revealing genetic changes that distinguish us from Neanderthals and Denisovans. These findings suggest that population-level advantages, such as increased connectivity and access to resources, played a significant role in shaping human migration patterns.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCell·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 29, 2024

A landmark study maps the precise orchestration of prenatal development

Researchers have characterized the rapid series of events transforming a fertilized cell into a living being, highlighting rapid changes in genetic activity post-birth. The study's findings underscore the speed at which newborns must adapt to extrauterine life and offer insights into long-term physiology and health outcomes.

SourceJackson Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 29, 2024

Addressing societal concerns of genetic determinism of human behavior by linking environmental influences and genetic research

A new perspective article suggests that integrating environmental effects into genetic research is crucial to understand the intricate nature of gene-environment interactions. The authors propose expanding genome-wide association studies by incorporating environmental data, which could help mitigate deterministic thinking in genetics.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 27, 2024

Detroit research team to develop novel strategies to identify genetic contributions to cancer risk and overcome barriers to genetic testing for African Americans

A team of researchers from Wayne State University and the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute have received a five-year, $9.6 million grant to improve the identification and clinical management of hereditary and multiple primary cancers in African Americans. The study aims to overcome barriers to genetic testing in this population.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateFeb 26, 2024

Stone Age strategy for avoiding inbreeding

A new study from Uppsala University found that Stone Age hunter-gatherer communities in Western Europe deliberately formed distinct families to avoid inbreeding and maintain genetic diversity. The research analyzed the genomes of several individuals buried at iconic sites in France, dating back to around 6,700 years ago.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 26, 2024
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.

Unravelling the genetic and environmental influences on trust

A new study found that genetic factors contribute around 33% to the variation in levels of trust among individuals, while life circumstances such as age, health, and relationship status also increase trust. The research used twin studies to disentangle genetic and environmental influences on trust.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalJournal of Economic Behavior & Organization·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 20, 2024

Ancient genomes reveal Down Syndrome in past societies

Researchers identified six ancient individuals with an extra copy of Chromosome 21 and another with three copies of Chromosome 18, indicating care and appreciation from their communities. These findings suggest that children with Down Syndrome and Edwards Syndrome were not stigmatized but rather recognized as part of their societies.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 20, 2024

Predicting neurodevelopmental disease in children from parent’s traits

Researchers found that parents' manifestation of neurodevelopmental and psychiatric traits can predict the prevalence and severity of disorders in children. The study analyzed 97,000 families and revealed a correlation between parental traits, suggesting that assortative mating may contribute to increased disease severity.

SourcePenn State·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 7, 2024

“Genomic time machine” reveals secrets of our DNA

A new study reveals a larger number of transposable elements in the human genome than previously known, shedding light on their potential role in human diseases. The 'genomic time machine' approach allowed researchers to identify degenerate TEs that were missed in previous studies.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalCell Genomics·DateJan 30, 2024
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.

New tool improves the search for genes that cause diseases

A new statistical model developed by UChicago researchers accurately identifies causal genes and variants for a disease. The tool reduces false positives and takes into account multiple genes and variants, leading to the discovery of 35 putative causal genes for LDL cholesterol levels.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Genetics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 26, 2024

Were Neanderthals morning people ?

Genetic material from Neanderthal ancestors may have influenced the preference for waking up early in some people. Studies found that introgressed genetic variants from Neanderthals are associated with increased morningness and a shorter circadian period, which is beneficial at higher latitudes.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·TypeContent analysis·DateDec 14, 2023
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.

Fish-like genetic program used to turn human retinal cells into neurons

Researchers have successfully converted human retinal cells, specifically Muller glia, into neurons in a lab setting using an artificial fish-like genetic program. This breakthrough could potentially serve as a new source of neurons to treat vision loss caused by disease or trauma.

SourceInternational Society for Stem Cell Research·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateNov 30, 2023

Genes influence whether infants prefer to look at faces or non-social objects

A study at Uppsala University found that infant face preference is influenced by genes and linked to later language development. The researchers analyzed over 500 infant twins and found that individual infants' preferences for faces could be largely explained by their genetics.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 27, 2023
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.

Parental age effect on the longevity and healthspan of flies and worms

A new study found that the progeny of successive generations of old parents had significantly shorter lifespans than those from young parents in both Drosophila melanogaster and Caenorhabditis elegans. The researchers also discovered that switching to only one generation of younger parents improved the healthspan of the offspring.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 2023

Genetics study shines light on health disparities for IBD

Researchers found that rare gene variants associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are less prevalent in African Americans, suggesting a different genetic contribution to the disease. The study highlights the importance of considering genetic diversity and admixture in IBD research.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalGenome Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2023
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.

Why it’s important to improve communication of unanticipated genomic findings to patients with late-stage cancer

A qualitative study by City of Hope highlights the importance of proper patient preparation for unanticipated, inheritable genetic findings prior to tumor sequencing. The research emphasizes the need for scalable educational interventions that facilitate informed consent, such as online tools and applications.

SourceCity of Hope·JournalGenetics in Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateNov 15, 2023

Genetic traces of the woolly rhinoceros – in the middle of southern Germany

Researchers from the University of Konstanz and Tübingen have found genetic evidence of a woolly rhinoceros's presence in southern Germany during the late Middle Palaeolithic period. The analysis of hyena coprolites reveals that the animals preyed on and consumed woolly rhinoceroses, providing insights into prehistoric ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalBiology Letters·DateNov 10, 2023

A closer look at rebel T cells

Scientists at the La Jolla Institute for Immunology have uncovered a group of T cells known as mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells. These cells can recognize the same markers whether they come from humans or mice, opening up new possibilities for treating infectious diseases and improving cancer immunotherapies. The study also ...

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2023

Head lice evolution mirrors human migration and colonization in the Americas

A new study analyzing lice genetic diversity found that head lice arrived in the Americas twice – once with early human migrants and again during European colonization. This discovery supports existing theories on human migration and provides insights into how lice have evolved alongside humans.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateNov 8, 2023
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.

Greener neighborhoods can protect us – at the cellular level

A new study found that residents of neighborhoods with more greenspace tend to have longer telomeres, indicating better cellular health. However, the positive impact of greenspace is not enough to compensate for other environmental challenges like air pollution and racial segregation.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 18, 2023

Multi-drug resistant strain of E.coli battles bacteria in healthy gut

A new study reveals a multi-drug resistant strain of E.coli, MDR ST131, can outcompete and displace other strains in the human gut. The research provides evidence that certain types of E.coli are more prone to developing antibiotic resistance, posing significant health risks.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 17, 2023

Neanderthal gene variants associated with greater pain sensitivity

Researchers discovered that people carrying three Neanderthal gene variants in the SCN9A gene are more sensitive to certain types of pain. The study found an association between the variants and a lower pain threshold in response to skin pricking after prior exposure to mustard oil.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 10, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Genetic evidence shows that smoking can cause us to age faster

A study of nearly 500,000 participants found that smoking shortens telomere length in white blood cells, a indicator of aging and cell regeneration. The more cigarettes smoked, the stronger the shortening effect, suggesting a link between smoking and accelerated aging.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·TypeObservational study·DateSep 11, 2023

Genetic study of blood glucose levels calls for stratified treatment with GLP-1R agonists in type 2 diabetes, reveals the role of the intestine, and impact on lung function

A new genetic study revealed the link between type 2 diabetes, lung disorders, and the gastrointestinal tract. The research suggests that individual responses to GLP-1R agonist drugs depend on DNA variants in the target gene, and high blood sugar levels can directly cause lung complications.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalNature Genetics·DateSep 7, 2023

Potential target for reversing drug resistance in ovarian cancer identified

A team of Chinese and UK researchers has identified superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) as a potential target for reversing drug resistance in ovarian cancer. By using nanoparticles to deliver siRNA that reduces SOD1 levels, the study showed reduced growth and decreased resistance to cisplatin in female mice.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalCancer Gene Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2023
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.

Largest genetic study of epilepsy to date provides new insights on why epilepsy develops and potential treatments

A massive genetic study has identified specific DNA changes that increase the risk of developing epilepsy. The research found 26 distinct areas in our DNA involved in epilepsy and proposed alternative drugs targeting these genes. The findings may inform better diagnosis, classification, and treatment strategies for epilepsy.

SourceRCSI·JournalNature Genetics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 31, 2023

Rare kidney disease is genetically decoded

Researchers have identified genetic variants and structural patterns that contribute to the development of Bartter syndrome type 3, a rare kidney disease. The study's findings may lead to better diagnostic and treatment options for affected individuals.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalGenome Medicine·DateAug 23, 2023
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.

Largest genetic study of brain structure identifies how the brain is organised

A new study published in Nature Genetics has identified over 4,000 genetic variants linked to brain structure, revealing how the brain's organization is shaped by genetics. The research found that different sets of genes contribute to folding and size of the cortex, with some genes linked to larger or smaller head sizes.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Genetics·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 17, 2023

Ötzi: dark skin, bald head, Anatolian ancestry

A new study reveals that Ötzi had a Mediterranean-European skin tone and little to no Eastern European ancestry. His hair was likely sparse, with a predisposition to baldness. The research team used advanced sequencing technology to analyze Ötzi's genome, which has more Anatolian farmer ancestry than any of his European contemporaries.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalCell Genomics·DateAug 16, 2023

New genetic relations between irritable bowel syndrome and psychiatric diseases discovered

A new study has identified thousands of shared genetic variants between patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and psychiatric disorders such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety. This discovery provides a new understanding of the brain-gut axis and holds promise for developing effective treatments for IBS.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalGenome Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 15, 2023
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.

Having a bad hair day? Blame your genes!

A new study has identified four genetic variants associated with the direction of human scalp hair whorls, revealing a polygenic inheritance pattern. The findings may help unravel biological processes related to abnormal neurological development.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2023

Family trees from the European Neolithic

Researchers reconstruct two massive family trees from ancient DNA data, shedding light on the lives of a prehistoric European Neolithic community. The study reveals a strong patrilineal pattern, large family sizes, and a potentially fluid exchange network comprising many groups.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalNature·DateJul 26, 2023
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.

Participating in genetic studies is in your genes – Oxford study

A groundbreaking Oxford study reveals a significant genetic component to people's probability of participating in genetic studies. The research identified detectable 'footprints' in genetics data that can be exploited statistically to enhance research accuracy for both participants and non-participants alike.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature Genetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 13, 2023

Ethics & Human Research, July-August 2023

The Hastings Center's Institutional Review Board (IRB) has implemented an evidence-based intervention to address racism and promote equity in biomedical research. The IRB now requires researchers to define racial and ethnic classifications, state whether they are describing or explaining differences between groups, and provide justific...

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalEthics & Human Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 10, 2023

Genetics shed light on causes of intestinal disease

A genome-wide association study found 150 genetic factors linked to diverticular disease of intestine (DivD), an overlooked and understudied disease. DivD is highly heritable, with 40% of risk inherited, according to researchers.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalCell Genomics·TypeObservational study·DateJul 5, 2023
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.

New study reveals a potential big leap for gene therapy

A new study from Aarhus University has found that applying AI predictions of protein structures enhances the CRISPR technology, making the cuts in a patient's DNA more precise. This discovery may lead to better treatments for patients with genetic disorders and potentially develop cures for various genetic diseases.

SourceAarhus University·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 29, 2023

First genetic locus for voice pitch

Scientists have identified a genetic locus associated with voice pitch, found in the ABCC9 gene, which influences voice characteristics in both men and women. The study also reveals links between voice pitch and cardiovascular health, highlighting the complex relationship between vocal traits and human biology.

SourcedeCODE genetics·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 9, 2023

Researchers find an immune system ‘trip wire’ that detects COVID-19

A new study reveals a previously unknown way the immune system detects certain viruses, including SARS-Cov-2, using the inflammasome protein CARD8. Researchers found that CARD8 functions differently among various species and even varies between individuals in the human population.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2023

DNAmFitAge: Biological age indicator incorporating physical fitness

Researchers developed a new biological age indicator, DNAmFitAge, that incorporates physical fitness parameters, showing a correlation with lower mortality risk, coronary heart disease risk reduction, and improved disease-free status in physically fit individuals.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 7, 2023
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.

In sync? Malaria parasite and human time clocks do align

A study by Florida Atlantic University and Duke University reveals that the malaria parasite's biological clock is 'in sync' with its human host's circadian clock. The researchers discovered a 'coupling' mechanism between the parasite and its host, which could lead to new treatments for this deadly disease.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 7, 2023

Tracing Chile’s indigenous roots through genetics and linguistics

A new international study reconstructs the legacy of Chile's largest indigenous community, the Mapuche, through genetics and linguistics. The research reveals distinct Mapuche lineages originated locally and have remained in relative isolation, punctuated by episodes of contact with other South American populations.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 5, 2023

The look of your eyebrows is in your genes; A new study uncovers genes that define the appearance of eyebrows

A recent study has uncovered three previously unreported genetic loci associated with eyebrow thickness in Europeans, as well as rediscovering two of the four genetic loci previously found in non-Europeans. The research expands genetic knowledge on human eyebrow variation, with implications for dermatology and other fields.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 5, 2023
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.

Genomes of 233 primate species sequenced

The study reveals new insights into primate evolution, genetic diversity, and the uniqueness of humans. It also highlights the importance of preserving primate species due to high genetic diversity, which enables adaptation to changing environments.

SourceDeutsches Primatenzentrum (DPZ)/German Primate Center·JournalScience·DateJun 2, 2023

Study reveals underlying genetic risks for a type of heart attack largely affecting younger women

Researchers have identified 16 genes associated with an increased risk of Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection (SCAD), a type of heart attack primarily affecting young to middle-aged women. The study also found that patients with SCAD have some genetic protection from the risk of conventional coronary artery disease.

SourceUniversity Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust·JournalNature Genetics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 29, 2023

Combining data types refines grasp of French Canadian ancestry in Quebec, revealing how local topographies influenced relatedness, and more

Researchers analyzed a comprehensive dataset from Catholic parish records and genotype data to reveal how local topographies influenced French Canadian relatedness. They found that geographic features, particularly river networks, shaped Quebec's population structure and contributed significantly to the French Canadian gene pool.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 25, 2023