In a reversal of long-standing policy, the U.S. Justice Department announced on Friday that naturally occurring genes—human or otherwise—could not be patented. This ruling does not include manipulated or altered genes. So, for instance, you can still patent the specific, fiddled-with genes behind a GM crop. But, this is still a very big deal. Right now the genes associated with increased risk of breast cancer are patented and, thus, there is only one, very expensive, test available to look for them. In March, a judge ruled those patents invalid. And now it looks like the federal government is backing up that ruling.
Natural genes can't be patented says U.S. government
The oldest local weekly newspaper in America could be closing soon
Nieman Lab — Nieman Lab — the institute for the academic study of journalism based out of Harvard University reports that the Cambridge Chronicle has lost its last full-time employee, leaving the paper in a perilous spot after 175 years of business. The Chronicle had been the oldest weekly newspaper left in the country, and had been family-owned until the early 90s before… READ THE REST
Prince Philip's will to be kept secret for 90 years
The last will and testament of Queen Elizabeth's consort, Philip, will be kept secret for 90 years to protect her "dignity and standing". Whatever indignities and unstandings therein lie were permanently sealed in a secret and private hearing months ago by Sir Andrew McFarlane, the most senior judge in the family courts, at which no… READ THE REST
Watch raw behind-the-scenes footage of the CNN newsroom on September 11, 2001
Like so many people, I spent September 11, 2001 glued to CNN. The raw video above and below show what was happening behind-the-scenes at CNN Center Atlanta. Over at r/ObscureMedia, JohnConquest writes: Like most big news events at CNN, crews for promotional material decided to start recording a half hour after the initial news broke.… READ THE REST
This TruGolf Mini Golf Simulator will help the whole family learn the game of golf
Run out of things to do with the family? Because you all went through your activity book during quarantine, you're probably doing literally anything to kill time these days (especially since COVID restrictions are still being upheld by the world's finest and brightest). No sweat, we've got a new hobby for you and the whole… READ THE REST
Here are 10 Black Friday deals on our favorite language learning apps
We thank our sponsor for making this content possible; it is not written by the editorial staff nor does it necessarily reflect its views. Set yourself up for the new year by treating yourself to learning. When you learn a new language, you can go see the world and interact with new cultures. It also… READ THE REST
Save an extra 20% off on these epic video games that are still on Black Friday discounts
We thank our sponsor for making this content possible; it is not written by the editorial staff nor does it necessarily reflect its views. This Black Friday, gamers are likely going for new consoles, peripherals, gaming chairs, and other gear that will optimize their gaming experience. If you're separating yourself from the pack and wish… READ THE REST
