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UC Davis makes breakthrough in understanding Canavan disease

Researchers at UC Davis have identified the biochemical underpinnings of Canavan disease, a type of leukodystrophy that causes progressive neurological deterioration. By blocking the production of NAA, they aim to find a promising direction for treatment and potentially reverse the process in children with the disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalNeurology·DateApr 27, 2015
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Gene in high-altitude cattle disease sheds light on human lung disease

A genetic mutation in cattle grazing at high altitude leads to a life-threatening condition called brisket disease, characterized by high blood pressure in the lungs. The study sheds light on human lung disease, particularly non-familial pulmonary hypertension in patients with emphysema and pulmonary fibrosis.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 15, 2015

Hidden burden: Most people carry recessive disease mutations

A new study published in the Genetics journal estimated that humans carry an average of one to two recessive disease mutations, which can cause severe genetic disorders or prenatal death. The study used a unique community's detailed family histories and genealogical records to estimate the number of mutations per person.

SourceGenetics Society of America·JournalGenetics·DateApr 8, 2015

Study finds new genetic clues to pediatric seizure disorders

Researchers have identified a genetic mutation in salt-inducible kinase 1 (SIK1) that regulates myocyte-specific enhancer factor 2C (MEF2C), contributing to severe seizures. The finding may lead to better treatment options for individuals with developmental epilepsy.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateApr 2, 2015

Cancer's relentless evolution

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells exhibit high genetic diversity, driven by convergent evolution and mutation rates, leading to increased treatment resistance. Researchers are exploring a new paradigm that leverages cancer's evolveability to develop more effective treatments.

SourceArizona State University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 1, 2015

Exercise for older mouse mothers lowers risk of heart defects in babies

A new study found that exercise alone can lower the risk of heart defects in babies born to older mouse mothers. The research suggests that genetic mutations are tied to age, not egg quality, and that healthy metabolism and exercise may play a crucial role in preventing congenital heart disease.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature·DateApr 1, 2015
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.

The 'intraterrestrials': New viruses discovered in ocean depths

Scientists have discovered a new virus infecting archaea beneath the ocean floor, which selectively targets one of its genes for mutation. The study also reveals that these microorganisms use a novel mechanism to accelerate genetic adaptation, targeting at least four distinct genes, and this process may be key to their survival.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalNature·DateMar 31, 2015

The CNIO identifies a new gene involved in hereditary neuroendocrine tumors

Researchers at CNIO have discovered a new gene, MDH2, linked to rare neuroendocrine tumors with high hereditary risk. The finding confirms the relationship between metabolism and tumour development, providing a boost to genetic diagnosis and potential metastasis prevention.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMar 30, 2015

Like Angelina Jolie, study pinpoints genetic cause of increased leukemia risk

A University of Colorado Cancer Center study found a heritable genetic cause of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), similar to the BRCA mutation that affects breast and ovarian cancer risk. The ETV6 gene mutation is present at birth and increases the development of ALL, with the potential for future strategies to prevent the disease.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 25, 2015
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.

Mutations taking place only in the brain identified as the cause of intractable epilepsy

Researchers at KAIST identify brain somatic mutations in the MTOR gene as the cause of intractable epilepsy. These mutations are specific to the brain and can lead to permanent disabilities and death. A targeted therapy using rapamycin may offer a solution, suppressing mTOR kinase activation to lessen epileptic seizures.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 23, 2015

Surviving in hostile territory

A team of UC Santa Barbara scientists discovered a new virus that selectively targets one gene for mutation, allowing it to thrive in extreme environments. They also found that some archaea do the same, targeting multiple genes and accelerating genetic variation through guided mutation.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 23, 2015
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.

Genetically speaking, mammals are more like their fathers

A novel study published in Nature Genetics shows that mammals use more of the DNA inherited from their dads to develop and express genes. This discovery has significant implications for understanding complex diseases like type-2 diabetes, heart disease, and schizophrenia.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 2, 2015

A new tool provides maps of protein interactions for 2,800 diseases

A computational tool, dSysMap, has been developed to interpret the effect of genetic mutations on the development of complex diseases. The tool positions over 23,000 documented genetic mutations on a map of known interactions between human proteins.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature Methods·DateFeb 27, 2015
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.

Living in the genetic comfort zone

Fruit flies exhibit homogenous gene expression pattern at optimal temperature of 18°C, unaffected by genetic variation. Canalization mechanism acts as buffer against environmental or genetic perturbations, stabilizing organismal growth.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateFeb 26, 2015

Researchers pin down genetic pathways linked to CF disease severity

A study by UNC School of Medicine researchers identified genetic pathways that play a major role in determining the severity of cystic fibrosis. The findings may lead to new personalized treatments to lessen pulmonary symptoms and increase life expectancy for people with CF.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateFeb 23, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Sex has another benefit: It makes humans less prone to disease over time

Researchers found that segments of human genome with low recombination rate carry a higher proportion of disease-enabling genetic mutations, which are eventually shuffled off through sexual reproduction. This discovery can help scientists identify and develop effective treatments for diseases.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 16, 2015

Cerebral palsy -- it can be in your genes

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have discovered that at least 14% of cerebral palsy cases are caused by genetic mutations. This groundbreaking finding has significant implications for the diagnosis, management, and treatment of the condition.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateFeb 12, 2015

Mutation detection in human in vitro fertilized embryos using whole-genome sequencing

Researchers used a new whole-genome sequencing method to detect potential disease-causing mutations in human IVF embryos, detecting 82% of single base de novo mutations. The technique, which uses DNA barcodes and advanced sequencing technology, can help identify the cause of congenital disorders such as intellectual disability and autism.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenome Research·DateFeb 11, 2015

Crowdfunding helps solve rare disease mystery

A Tel Aviv University researcher has successfully identified a novel genetic mutation in a rare disease using whole exome sequencing and crowdfunding. The study, led by Dr. Noam Shomron, used DNA sequencing of a three-year-old girl and her family to reveal the genetic cause of her symptoms, which included mental retardation and severe ...

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Genetics and Genomics·DateFeb 10, 2015
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 identify rare shared genetic mutation for disease in Inuit

A Canadian-Japanese research team has identified a shared genetic mutation responsible for an inherited metabolic disorder, glycogen storage disease type IIIa, in Inuit populations in northern Quebec. The mutation affects approximately 1 in 2500 people in Nunavik and can cause enlarged livers, hypoglycemia, and muscle weakness.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 19, 2015

Genetics underpinning antimalarial drug resistance revealed

A genome-wide study of the malaria parasite reveals a complex genetic architecture that enables artemisinin resistance. Researchers found 20 mutations in the kelch13 gene and four other genes that work together to support resistance, but monitoring specific genetic backgrounds could help target high-risk regions.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 19, 2015
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.

Rare mutations do not explain 'missing heritability' in asthma

A large-scale study found rare genetic mutations in three genes (GRASP, GSDMB, and MTHFR) associated with asthma risk, but only in specific ethnicities. These findings suggest gaps in the current understanding of asthma genetics.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 16, 2015

Mutations linked to repair of chromosome ends may make emphysema more likely in smokers

A new study found that mutations in the telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) gene increase the risk of emphysema in smokers. Female smokers with these mutations may be more susceptible to the disease. The researchers also discovered a link between telomere shortening and other health problems, such as osteoporosis and liver disease.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 14, 2015

'Titin' gene mutations will help identify patients at risk of heart failure

A new study has identified genetic mutations in the titin gene that cause dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a leading cause of inherited heart failure. The study provides information that will help screen high-risk patients and develop therapies to prevent or treat heart disease caused by titin mutations.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 14, 2015

Machine learning reveals unexpected genetic roots of cancers, autism and other disorders

Researchers at the University of Toronto developed a machine learning method to rank genetic mutations based on their likelihood of causing disease. The technique successfully predicted 94% of known genetic culprits behind diseases such as spinal muscular atrophy and colorectal cancer, and identified novel genes in autism susceptibility.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalScience·DateDec 18, 2014
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.

The fine-tuning of human color perception

Researchers analyzed 5,040 evolutionary paths of human color vision, finding that 4,008 trajectories are terminated prematurely due to nonfunctional pigments. The study's findings emphasize the importance of understanding molecular evolution and genetic engineering in decoding protein mutations' effects.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateDec 18, 2014

Genetic mutation found to cause ovarian failure

A unique genetic disorder responsible for ovarian insufficiency has been discovered by Tel Aviv University researchers. The SYCE1 gene mutation was found to be the underlying cause of primary ovarian insufficiency in two sisters, and its effects were also detected in three brothers and parents.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateDec 17, 2014

Targeted next-generation sequencing reveals a high number of genomic mutations in advanced malignant

Researchers used targeted NGS to identify genetic alterations in genes involved in DNA repair, cell survival, and proliferation pathways. The study found that accumulated mutations correlate with tumor progression and decreased survival rates in patients with advanced malignant lung cancer. The results highlight the potential of NGS to...

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateDec 17, 2014

Stay complex, my friends

Researchers found that long-lasting hosts evolved more complex defenses against parasites, providing a survival advantage. The study used the Avida platform to model co-evolution between host and virus, revealing a surprising large proportion of 'switching' mutations in co-evolved hosts.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateDec 16, 2014
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.

Study shows more patients with ALS have genetic origin than previously thought

A comprehensive genetic study found that more patients with ALS have a genetic origin than previously believed. Patients with mutations in multiple genes experience earlier disease onset. The study suggests that genetics may play a larger role in ALS, potentially affecting over one-third of all cases.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateDec 5, 2014
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 new genetic cause for a progressive form of epilepsy identified

A new gene has been identified as the genetic cause of a progressive form of epilepsy in nearly one-third of patients. The mutation affects a potassium channel encoding gene KCNC1, which disrupts signal transmission in the brain and causes epileptic seizures and myoclonus.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Genetics·DateNov 17, 2014

New genetic cause for rare form of epilepsy identified

Researchers have discovered a single mutation in a gene that explains a significant proportion of unsolved cases of progressive myoclonus epilepsy. The mutation disrupts brain signal transmission, leading to epileptic seizures and muscle twitching starting in childhood.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNature Genetics·DateNov 17, 2014

Woman's genes give clue for unique liver cancer treatment

A 47-year-old woman with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma received a uniquely personalized treatment based on her genetic profile, achieving significant tumour shrinkage and symptom improvement. The use of next-generation sequencing revealed a rare BRAF mutation, which was targeted by dabrafenib and trametinib therapies.

Sourceecancermedicalscience·Journalecancermedicalscience·DateNov 6, 2014

CNIO researchers create a mouse model that reproduces noonan syndrome

Researchers at CNIO have developed a mouse model that expresses the most common K-Ras mutation found in Noonan patients, reproducing its most representative features. The study aims to advance knowledge of the syndrome and develop specific treatments for each mutation.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 5, 2014
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.

Autism's genetic architecture comes into focus

A groundbreaking study has identified over two dozen high-confidence autism genes, shedding light on the disorder's genetic architecture. The research also reveals a difference in genetic basis between 'higher-IQ' and 'lower-IQ' autism, with implications for early interventions.

SourceSimons Foundation·JournalNature·DateOct 29, 2014
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.

Discovery of a novel heart and gut disease

Scientists have identified a novel heart and gut disease, named Chronic Atrial Intestinal Dysrhythmia syndrome (CAID), caused by a rare genetic mutation. The disease is characterized by cardiac arrhythmias and intestinal pseudo-obstruction, with patients often requiring invasive treatments and surgeries.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalNature Genetics·DateOct 5, 2014

The 'Angelina Effect' was not only immediate, but also long-lasting

Research reveals a two-and-a-half-fold increase in referrals by GPs for June and July 2013 after Angelina Jolie's announcement, with continued rise through October. The study found that many women with family history of breast cancer were referred for testing, contradicting concerns about 'worried well' individuals.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBreast Cancer Research·DateSep 18, 2014

Penn study finds genetic mutations linked with ethnic disparities in cancer

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have identified over 30 previously undiscovered genetic mutations in microRNAs that may influence cancer susceptibility and severity. These mutations were found to be associated with increased risk of certain types of cancer, including breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer, in African popula...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalBMC Genomics·DateSep 9, 2014

Genetic 'hotspot' linked to endometrial cancer aggressiveness

Scientists at MD Anderson Cancer Center have discovered genetic mutations in a subset of endometrial cancer patients that are associated with a more lethal form of the disease. The identification of these mutations could lead to the development of targeted treatments and improved patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateSep 3, 2014

'Deep sequencing' picks up hidden causes of brain disorders

A new deep sequencing approach has identified subtle somatic mutations in patients with brain disorders, revealing previously missed genetic causes. The technique complements whole-genome and whole-exome sequencing, enabling the detection of mutations in as few as 10% of patients' blood cells.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 20, 2014
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.

New gene technique identifies previously hidden causes of brain malformation

Scientists have developed a new gene technique to find disease-causing mutations in patients with brain malformations. The technique uses next-generation sequencing technology to sequence hundreds of copies of genes in a panel of candidate genes, identifying somatic mutations that were previously undetectable.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 20, 2014

A new way to model cancer

Researchers have found an alternative way to model cancer using CRISPR, a gene-editing system that can introduce cancer-causing mutations into the livers of adult mice. This method enables scientists to screen these mutations much more quickly than traditional breeding methods.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateAug 6, 2014
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.

Epidemic outbreaks caused by environment, not evolution

A team of scientists has found that genetic changes in a bacterial pathogen may be caused by chance environmental events rather than genetic mutations. The study, published in PNAS, analyzed 149 genomes of Salmonella enterica serovar Paratyphi A and found that the pathogen had not changed dramatically over its 450-year history.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 4, 2014