Last summer scientists at Michigan State University reported about a new device they developed, called Gene-Z, that performs genetic analysis on microRNAs. The device is low cost, uses an Apple iPod Touch as an interface, and doesn’t require much energy, so can be charged using solar panels (you’ll need bigger ones for the iPod). Over the last few months the team has been testing the Gene-Z on the genetics of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus , and believes that it is “a significant step toward truly inexpensive and compact tools for POC genetic testing.” Using...