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ScienceAnimalsThousands of Unknown Viruses and Bacteria Are Living in Our Subways
New research out this week confirms that our subways aren’t just jam-packed with people—they’re also filled to the brim with viruses, bacteria, and other microbes. Using samples from transit stations in 60 countries, scientists have created a microbial atlas of sorts. But though the scientists have discovered lots of previously unknown species living in these … Continued
By Ed Cara -
ScienceGeneticsScientists Dive Into Axolotl Genome, Looking for Secrets to Regeneration
Its adorableness aside, the Mexican axolotl is a salamander of particular interest to scientists. On the molecular level, the animal seems to have a cheat code for life: It can regenerate its limbs and vital organs, an ability researchers are desperate to better understand for medical applications. Now, geneticists have gotten a clearer view of … Continued
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ScienceAnimalsAn Extinct Cave Bear’s DNA Was Still Readable After 360,000 Years
A tiny ear bone belonging to a cave bear that died some 360,000 years ago has yielded the oldest genome not sourced from permafrost. The newly sequenced genome is offering new insights into the evolution of cave bears and how climate change can precipitate the emergence of entirely new species. “With DNA, we can decipher … Continued
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ScienceGeneticsCommon DNA Testing Method Has High False-Positive Rate for Rare Mutations, Study Finds
Consumer DNA testing remains a booming industry, but new research released Monday suggests that it has a glaring flaw in its predictive power. The findings indicate that a common method of testing used by many companies is awful at correctly identifying rare genetic mutations that could raise the likelihood of health problems like cancer. As … Continued
By Ed Cara -
ScienceArtificial IntelligenceArtificial Human Genomes Could Help Overcome Research Privacy Concerns
It can be difficult to distinguish a flesh-and-blood human’s face from one generated by artificial intelligence. (Telltale signs are misshapen eyes under spectacles, non-dermatological blemishes on the skin, and hair that looks as if it’s been thatched atop the head, though your experience may differ). But what about when those impostors are more than skin … Continued
