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Drug-maker DNA ‘fingerprint’ can be linked to capsules

Experiments found DNA accumulates differently depending on involvement in the process, aiding identification. The study also discovered DNA from capsules can be transferred to ziplock bags, providing a complete profile with minimal contact.

SourceFlinders University·JournalForensic Science International Genetics·TypeObservational study·DateJan 28, 2025
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.

New GPS system for microorganisms could revolutionise police work

A new AI tool uses microbial communities as a 'microscopic fingerprint' to determine geographical source, opening up possibilities in medicine, epidemiology and forensics. The mGPS system achieves impressive precision, pinning down city sources for 92% of samples and distinguishing between handrails and kiosks in NYC.

SourceLund University·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateNov 7, 2024

Change in the law could help families of missing persons

A new law change proposal aims to provide families of missing persons with an opportunity for closure through burial, rather than cremation. The proposal, backed by expert research, would require DNA sampling before burial to confirm identity and enable family members to make decisions about the body.

SourceStaffordshire University·DateOct 29, 2024
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.

How to catch a criminal using their ‘shedder’ profile

A pioneering new DNA forensics technique measures a suspect's individual level of natural shedding of skin and cell DNA. The study found that males shed more cells than females, regardless of hand use.

SourceFlinders University·JournalForensic Science International Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2024

Link between COVID-19 vaccine complication and rare ‘common cold’ blood disease

Researchers from Flinders University and international experts have found a link between COVID-19 vaccine complications and a rare blood disease related to adenovirus infections. The study identified identical molecular fingerprints in both vaccine-induced immune thrombocytopenia and thrombosis (VITT) and classic adenoviral vectored VITT.

SourceFlinders University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMay 15, 2024

Scientists ID burned bodies using technique used for extracting DNA from wooly mammoths, Neanderthals

Researchers at Binghamton University have developed a new technique to extract usable DNA from bones of fire victims, allowing identification through dental records or DNA testing. The method uses two different techniques to extract DNA, one suitable for temperatures below 350 degrees and the other for hotter fires.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of Forensic Sciences·DateFeb 29, 2024

Experts finetune testing of dust as potential for latest crime scene forensic tool

Researchers from Flinders University have found that dust contains distinct chemical and biological signatures that can be used to link a crime scene. The study, published in Forensic Science International Genetics, suggests that dust could be a valuable tool in forensic intelligence gathering.

SourceFlinders University·JournalForensic Science International Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 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.

Duct tape evidence holds up in court using innovative method from WVU forensic scientists

Forensic scientists at West Virginia University have developed a systematic approach to compare pieces of trace evidence, including duct tape, using a novel method. The technique evaluates fracture edges and demonstrates physical fit, providing a foundation for evaluating error rates and improving accuracy in crime scene investigations.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalForensic Chemistry·DateAug 2, 2023

Study probes how DNA folding might affect gene activity

Researchers have clarified the mechanism behind activating genes in drosophila fly sex cells, which may hold clues to understanding diseases. The study's findings suggest that DNA packaging plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression, with abnormal packaging potentially leading to misregulation and disease.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2022

New liquid biopsy detects local immune activity

A new blood test developed at Hebrew University of Jerusalem detects immune and inflammatory activity in tissues by monitoring circulating DNA fragments. This method provides accurate information about immune processes in remote tissues, removing the need for invasive measures.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 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.

DNA tags enable blood-based tests to assess cancer treatment outcomes

Studies of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) shed into the blood reveal that modifications, such as methyl groups, can identify specific cell types. This allows for non-invasive assessment of tissue damage and origin, enabling researchers to evaluate treatment effectiveness and detect adverse effects.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalFrontiers in Genetics·DateJul 27, 2021

Illuminating invisible bloody fingerprints with a fluorescent polymer

Researchers developed a fluorescent polymer that binds to blood in fingerprints without damaging DNA, creating high-contrast images on various surfaces. This technology enhances the detection of invisible bloody prints, critical for forensic evidence analysis.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateApr 21, 2021

Cost-effectiveness of sexual assault kits

A machine learning-based analysis of San Francisco Police Department DNA samples found that selective sampling increases DNA match yields by 45.4% while minimizing costs. Processing all samples in a kit doubles positive matches but is only slightly less efficient.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 1, 2020
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.

Genetic barcodes can ensure authentic DNA fingerprints

Researchers propose genetic barcodes to guarantee DNA samples' authenticity before reaching the lab, mitigating cyberbiosecurity threats. The system introduces non-harmful material into samples as they're collected, which acts as a password ensuring their genuineness upon processing.

SourceDuke University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Information Forensics and Security·DateMay 21, 2020

Scientists develop tool to sequence circular DNA

Scientists have developed a new method called CIDER-Seq to sequence circular DNA, providing insight into its function in bacterial and viral genomes. The tool also sheds light on extrachromosomal circular DNA in human and plant cells, which has been difficult to study due to the lack of effective methods.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalNature Protocols·DateMay 14, 2020

Severity of crime increases jury's belief in guilt

A new Duke study reveals that mock jurors' confidence in guilt increases with the severity of the alleged crime, regardless of evidence. The study found that DNA and non-DNA physical evidence have a significant impact on jurors' decisions, while prior convictions have less effect.

SourceDuke University·DateOct 29, 2018

NIST builds statistical foundation for next-generation forensic DNA profiling

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has developed a statistical foundation for calculating match statistics when using Next Generation Sequencing in forensic DNA profiling. This new data enables labs to generate reliable match statistics, even with partial DNA profiles or mixtures from multiple individuals.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateJul 23, 2018
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.

Humans may be uniquely identified by the proteins in their hair

Researchers have identified a unique set of protein markers in human hair that could be used to distinguish individuals. The findings demonstrate the robustness of these proteins and estimate that they would be sufficient to provide a unique pattern for an individual among a population of one million.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 7, 2016

Researchers shed new light on regulation of repetitive DNA sequences

Two studies on yeast reveal that gene expression among tandem DNA repeats varies substantially depending on position within the array. These findings provide key information about DNA architecture in cells, highlighting the central role of chromosome architecture in regulating these sequences.

SourceNew York University·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 28, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Crime scene discovery -- separating the DNA of identical twins

Researchers at the University of Huddersfield have developed a solution to distinguish between the DNA of identical twins using high-resolution melt curve analysis (HRMA). The technique exploits differences in DNA methylation patterns caused by environmental factors, enabling forensic investigators to accurately identify guilty parties.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalAnalytical Biochemistry·DateApr 23, 2015

DNA motor 'walks' along nanotube, transports tiny particle

Scientists have developed a new type of molecular motor made of DNA that can transport nanoparticles along the length of a carbon nanotube. The motor uses energy from RNA molecules to fuel its movement, which is controllable and adaptable to changes in the local environment.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 17, 2013
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

lobSTR algorithm rolls DNA fingerprinting into 21st century

The lobSTR algorithm accelerates DNA profiling by accurately analyzing over 100,000 short tandem repeats in a single day. This innovation opens up new research opportunities in medical genetics, population genetics, and forensics.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalGenome Research·DateApr 27, 2012
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.

Backpacks, not the bombs inside, key to finding DNA

Researchers obtained full DNA profiles from eight backpacks containing pipe bombs and matched them with volunteers who handled the bags for a week. This method, called consensus profiling, can help rule out DNA traces from others.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Forensic Sciences·DateDec 8, 2011

Hidden soil fungus, now revealed, is in a class all its own

Researchers have cultured and identified a new type of fungus, Archaeorhizomycetes finlayi, found in soil for millions of years. The fungus, which is slow-growing and produces spores only in soil, may play a role in breaking down dead plants.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalScience·DateAug 11, 2011

Novel DNA-sensing pathway in immune response to malaria

A novel DNA-sensing mechanism plays a role in the innate immune response to Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite that causes malaria. The study identifies an unknown receptor coupling to molecules linked with DNA-mediated type I interferon production, suggesting a broader impact on infectious diseases.

SourceCell Press·JournalImmunity·DateAug 4, 2011
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.

Fast forensic test can match suspects' DNA with crime samples in 4 hours

A newly developed DNA test can quickly analyze crime scene DNA and compare it to suspects' DNA, potentially keeping high-risk individuals incarcerated longer. The test, which takes four hours to produce results, is an improvement over current methods that take 24-72 hours.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateAug 4, 2010

Big Brother in the wild

A study by University of Exeter biologists uses digital video technology, tagging, and DNA fingerprinting to examine the behavior and ancestry of field crickets in their natural environment. The research reveals that dominant males don't always have more mates or offspring, and females can benefit from having multiple partners.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScience·DateJun 3, 2010

UMMS researchers publish DNA identification of czar's children

Researchers have confirmed the identities of the two missing Romanov children murdered in 1918 using DNA analysis. The study used mitochondrial and nuclear DNA to link the remains to Empress Alexandra and Crown Prince Alexei, resolving a 90-year-old mystery. Genetic connections were established through maternal and paternal lineages.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 25, 2009
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.

Foxes get frisky in the far north

A recent study by the University of Alberta reveals that some Arctic foxes engage in polyandry, where females have multiple male mates, and multiple paternity, leading to increased genetic variation. This finding challenges previous notions of monogamous mating habits in canid species.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalCanadian Journal of Zoology·DateJul 17, 2007

Elucidation of the genome for diabetics with DNA chips

A study using DNA chips has identified four genes associated with type 2 diabetes, accounting for up to 70% of the genetic risk. The genes include TCF7L2, HHEX, EXT2, and SLC30A8, which play major roles in insulin production and pancreatic function.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature·DateFeb 13, 2007

Crime scene investigates: The case of the dead cow

A new DNA technique, known as plant-fingerprinting, can identify poisonous plants from animal remains by analyzing DNA sequences in the rumen. This method uses plant material extracted from animals within 24 hours of death to create a unique template for amplifying specific DNA sequences.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateApr 6, 2006

New DNA 'fingerprinting' technique separates hemp from marijuana

A new DNA 'fingerprinting' technique separates hemp from marijuana by analyzing genetic markers. This method has the potential to distinguish marijuana varieties and aid in establishing origins of seized drugs, with implications for drug distribution networks and criminal defenses.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalJournal of Forensic Sciences·DateMar 22, 2006
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.

Around one in 25 dads could unknowingly be raising another man's child

Researchers found paternal discrepancy rates range from less than 1% to as much as 30%, with genetic testing potentially boosting these rates. Around one in 25 families could be affected, highlighting the need for support services and guidance on disclosure.

SourceBMJ Specialty Journals·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateAug 10, 2005

For yeast, a DNA break ensures sex switch for a grandchild

Researchers have identified a novel imprinting mechanism in yeast that controls sexual switching by marking genomic DNA with a simple single-strand break. This breakthrough discovery has general implications for how DNA can be marked for asymmetric inheritance affecting cell destiny.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 8, 2004

Student builds micro biosensor chip to move DNA molecules

Eric Simone, a Johns Hopkins undergraduate, has developed a microchip that can isolate and move DNA and protein molecules. The innovative circular electrode design allows for more effective analysis in certain bio-analytical applications, holding promise for disease diagnosis and monitoring.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateMar 15, 2004

Have the police hijacked our DNA?

The use of DNA fingerprinting in criminal cases is a growing concern due to its potential for misidentification. In New York City, the DNA itself will be charged with an offense, ignoring the statute of limitations and raising questions about fairness and accuracy.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateSep 18, 2003

Test opens prenatal genetic diagnosis to all

The new test uses PAP smears to isolate and genetically identify foetal cells, allowing for non-invasive prenatal diagnosis of chromosomal and single gene disorders. This reduces the risk of miscarriage associated with invasive tests and increases accessibility to prenatal testing for all pregnant women.

SourceInternational Congress of Genetics·DateJul 8, 2003
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Deadly listeriosis often occurs in clusters, research finds

A study by Cornell University researchers found that listeriosis cases are more likely to occur in clusters, which can help identify the source of contamination. This new understanding has the potential to prevent outbreaks and save lives.

SourceCornell University·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateMay 28, 2003

Scientists to examine DNA of George Washington trees

Researchers are creating a genetic database for ornamental trees by analyzing the DNA of George Washington's trees. The project, led by Virginia Tech and the USDA Forest Service, aims to understand the genetics of specific tree species.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateFeb 6, 2002

Endoscope May Have Transmitted Tuberculosis

Researchers discovered identical DNA fingerprints in bacterial cultures from two TB patients who were bronchoscoped at the same hospital. The study emphasizes the importance of maintaining TB DNA fingerprint registries to identify unsuspected transmission modes.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateSep 30, 1997