A new study has catalogued all possible genetic variations in over 3,000 chickpea plants to improve the crop's yield and resilience to climate change. The research proposes a breeding model using genomics-assisted breeding to enhance agriculturally valuable traits.
SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 10, 2021
A new computer program called Codetta can analyze the genome sequences of over 250,000 bacteria and archaea to identify alternative genetic codes. This could help scientists understand how genetic codes evolve and change.
SourceHarvard University·JournaleLife·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 9, 2021
Researchers develop a technique to scan and sequence single proteins, one amino acid at a time, using nanopore DNA sequencing technology. This breakthrough opens the way for single-molecule protein sequencing and cataloguing proteins inside a single cell.
SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalScience·DateNov 4, 2021
Researchers will identify and track SARS-CoV-2 variants using genomic sequence analyses. The project aims to understand the emergence and spread of the virus in West Virginia, helping public health officials prepare for future outbreaks.
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
A study led by Ludovic Orlando found that modern domestic horses were first domesticated in the Pontic-Caspian steppes around 2000-2200 BC. The genetic profile of these horses spread rapidly across Eurasia, replacing other horse populations and facilitating their conquest of the region.
Researchers use handheld devices resembling ray guns to record how plant leaves reflect different wavelengths of light, revealing genetic variation within species. This new method is faster and cheaper than genetic testing, increasing efficiency in mapping and monitoring biodiversity.
Researchers at the University of Arizona developed a new curriculum that allows high school students to learn about coronaviruses, genetics, and bioinformatics from home. The lesson plan, which was created before COVID-19 vaccines were introduced, teaches students how different vaccines work and analyzes protein sequences. Students who...
SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalThe American Biology Teacher·DateOct 15, 2021
Researchers developed an integrated framework combining single-cell and metagenomics to characterize microbes. The approach showed higher accuracy and precise binning, revealing more bacterial genera and intra-species diversity.
SourceWaseda University·JournalMicrobiome·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2021
A new plant species, Aenigmanu alvareziae, has been identified after nearly 50 years of scientists unable to classify it. The plant's DNA analysis revealed its closest relatives were in the Picramniaceae family.
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.
A study examining ancient calculus samples from skeletal remains in South Tyrol and Trentino discovered previously unknown species of microorganisms. The researchers found that the diversity of oral microbiota decreased significantly over a short period of time, likely due to changes in diet and lifestyle.
A new study found that Iberian wild goat populations exhibit very low genetic diversity due to drastic population reductions and habitat destruction. The research also identified the existence of rare hybrids between Iberian wild goats and domestic goats.
SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalEvolutionary Applications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 6, 2021
The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science has sequenced the genome of the blue crab, revealing approximately 24,000 genes and a genome length that is one third of the human genome. This breakthrough will aid in fisheries policies, aquaculture, and potentially track food source origins.
SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·JournalG3 Genes Genomes Genetics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 4, 2021
A medieval Spanish individual, known as the 'Segorbe Giant,' has been analyzed using ancient DNA. The research found that he had a mix of North African and local Spanish ancestry, suggesting a complex history of migration and intermixing. This study sheds light on a dark event in medieval Spain's past.
SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalScientific Reports·TypeContent analysis·DateSep 23, 2021
A new study suggests that climate change is displacing cold-water communities of algae with warm-adapted ones, threatening to destabilize the delicate marine food web. The research found a clear boundary between these communities at moderate water temperatures, highlighting the vulnerability of polar ecosystems.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 16, 2021
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.
A team of scientists from Incheon National University developed a programmable DNA-based microfluidic chip that can perform complex mathematical calculations, such as Boolean logic operations. The chip uses a motor-operated valve system to execute a series of reactions in rapid and convenient manner.
SourceIncheon National University·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2021
Researchers successfully detected local mammals and birds by collecting 18 litres of water from a two-kilometre stretch along the river Mulde. The team identified 50% of fish species, 22% of mammal species, and 7.4% of breeding bird species in the region.
SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalMetabarcoding and Metagenomics·DateSep 13, 2021
A study compared four common DNA extraction methods and found that each method produced slightly different results due to varying 'how' factors. Researchers can now make informed decisions about their methods to optimize results.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytobiomes Journal·DateSep 9, 2021
Scientists at UCL and Francis Crick Institute developed a novel tool that rapidly estimates the number of T cells in cancerous tumors, helping predict patient response to immunotherapy. This method uses DNA sequencing data from patients' cancerous tumours to quantify T cell abundance.
SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 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.
Researchers analyzed skunk DNA to determine the correct number of species, revealing seven species, including the previously recognized four. The revised family tree highlights the distinct evolutionary lineages of each species, making conservation efforts more effective.
SourceField Museum·JournalMolecular Phylogenetics and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021
Belgian researchers have developed an all-in-one test to identify healthy embryos for transfer, reducing the risk of passing de novo genetic diseases. The test uses long read sequencing and can detect copy number variants and single nucleotide variants in a single workflow.
Researchers at McGill University have developed a new way to track genetically modified animals using artificial transgenes. The discovery provides a powerful tool for locating and managing escaped or released GM animals.
SourceMcGill University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 30, 2021
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.
A reservoir of genes allowing sorghum to adapt to environmental stresses has been identified from 13 contrasting genomes. This genetic diversity is valuable for breeders, enabling them to improve crop yield and resilience. The analysis, led by the University of Queensland, provides unprecedented insights into the genome's dynamic nature.
SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Plants·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 24, 2021
Researchers studied electrical conduction through membranes during Controlled Breakdown, a technique to fabricate single nanopores. They found that redox reactions occur at the membrane-electrolyte interface, allowing localization of pore formation using metal microelectrodes.
SourceInstituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier da Universidade NOVA de Lisboa ITQB NOVA·JournalSmall Science·DateAug 19, 2021
Researchers sequenced DNA from plant specimens collected nearly 50 years ago to analyze genetic diversity and its response to climate change. The study found that several species restricted to the Guadalupe Mountains had surprisingly high amounts of genetic diversity, which could help them adapt to changing conditions.
SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateAug 16, 2021
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.
Researchers discovered an enzyme from Amazon fungus Trichoderma harzianum capable of breaking down diverse plant biomass sugars, enhancing the efficiency of second-generation ethanol production. The enzyme's industrial use is now viable at low cost due to genetic engineering techniques.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·TypeNews article·DateAug 4, 2021
The KAUST Metagenomic Analysis Platform (KMAP) enables researchers worldwide to analyze massive microbial data, eliminating the need for advanced bioinformatics skills. KMAP allows scientists to identify proteins and enzymes with potential applications in various industries, such as agriculture and pharmaceuticals.
SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 29, 2021
International collaboration has led to a new understanding of the evolutionary history of flowering plants, using a standardized set of genes. This allows for more efficient comparison of genetic sequences across multiple studies and enables researchers to piece together relationships among species.
SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateJul 26, 2021
A waterflea population has undergone rapid evolution in response to predator pressure over nearly two decades, with changes linked to specific environmental conditions. The study highlights the crucial role of standing genetic diversity in supporting adaptive evolution and its implications for conservation biology.
SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 14, 2021
An international team has developed a method to analyze ancient DNA in museum specimens, allowing for their placement on the evolutionary timeline. The technique enabled researchers to trace the evolutionary history of several species over tens of millions of years.
SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateJul 13, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A new method for analyzing soil nematode communities has been developed using DNA barcoding, revealing characteristics of nematode communities in fields, copses, and home gardens. The study found that plant parasitizing nematodes were abundant in copse soils and bacteria feeders were abundant in home garden soils.
SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 29, 2021
Scientists have developed new methods to retrieve mammalian viruses from water and leech samples, providing a novel approach to pandemic prevention research. The techniques used environmental DNA and invertebrate-derived DNA, allowing for the identification of known and novel viruses in wildlife reservoirs.
SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·DateJun 28, 2021
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a technique that allows users to preview stored DNA data files, such as image thumbnails. This innovation improves the efficiency and user experience of DNA data storage, enabling users to identify specific files without opening the entire file.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 10, 2021
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.
A new overview article explores innovative strategies for protein sequencing at the single-cell and single-molecule level, enabling critical insights into cell-to-cell variation in organs and tissues. This breakthrough may lead to routine clinical applications for diagnostic and treatment purposes, fulfilling personalized medicine.
SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Methods·DateJun 7, 2021
The loss of genetic diversity is a pressing crisis that can have devastating consequences for ecosystems and human societies. Monitoring genetic diversity using DNA analysis can help detect vulnerabilities, but technology must be made available globally and data must be accessible to inform conservation efforts.
SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalBioScience·DateMay 25, 2021
Marine biologists use environmental DNA to detect and identify ocean species, revealing previously unreported species in the Florida Keys. The technique, called metabarcoding, has practical applications in fisheries and conservation, as well as preventing jellyfish stings.
SourceTohoku University·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateMay 21, 2021
Researchers developed a novel method for labeling DNA bases using electrochemical detection and redox labels. This approach allows for the identification of individual nucleotides in a single strand of DNA, enabling faster and more affordable DNA sequencing and diagnostic applications.
SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 18, 2021
Researchers sequenced genomes from 21 specimens to investigate the genetic health of Sumatran rhinoceros. Low inbreeding levels and high genetic diversity were found in present-day populations, but potentially harmful mutations were detected, posing a risk to the species' survival.
SourceStockholm University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 26, 2021
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.
An international team validated five commercial assays for tumour DNA sequencing, detecting late-stage cancer with 0.5% circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) sensitivity. The study outlines best-practice guidelines and future development priorities for ctDNA assays in cancer diagnostics and monitoring.
SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateApr 12, 2021
Scientists at Osaka University fabricated nanopores in silicon dioxide that can prevent particles from entering by applying a voltage. The technology may enable the development of single-particle sensors and next-generation DNA sequencing technology.
SourceOsaka University·JournalCommunications Materials·DateMar 12, 2021
Researchers developed PopDel, a program that reliably identifies large deletions in thousands of genomes simultaneously. The software outperformed existing methods, detecting rare gene variants associated with healthy lipid metabolism.
SourceBIH at Charité·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 4, 2021
A new study has discovered a bone fragment in Southeast Alaska that belongs to the oldest confirmed dog in the Americas, dated to around 10,150 years ago. The DNA analysis suggests that the dog's lineage diverged from Siberian dogs around 16,700 years ago, coinciding with human migration along a coastal route.
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.
Researchers at Hebrew University have developed a simple and inexpensive diagnostic blood test that can detect various diseases, including cancers and heart and liver conditions. The test uses epigenetic information within the cell to determine the nature of the disease or tumor, exactly where it's found, and how far developed it is.
SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateFeb 8, 2021
SSRgenotyper is a free bioinformatic tool that digitally genotypes sequenced populations using simple sequence repeats. The tool reduces the time and work required for genotype analysis and solves the transferability problem inherent in electrophoresis estimates.
SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2021
Scientists have developed a method to track marine life in the Arctic using water samples, revealing insights into climate change impacts on bowhead whales and biodiversity. By analyzing environmental DNA in water bottles, researchers can monitor population diversity and patterns of migration.
SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalEnvironmental DNA·DateJan 12, 2021
The iGenomics app allows iPhone users to create a mobile genetics laboratory, enabling pandemic and ecology workers to study DNA on-the-go. The device can quickly map viral pathogen sequences and identify mutations for diagnosis and treatment.
SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGigaScience·DateDec 7, 2020
Researchers from Boyce Thompson Institute created a high-quality reference genome for S. pimpinellifolium, discovering sections of the genome underlying fruit flavor, size and ripening, stress tolerance and disease resistance. The study found over 92,000 structural variants related to important traits in cultivated tomatoes.
SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 1, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
A DNA-based molecular tagging system called Porcupine has been developed by University of Washington and Microsoft researchers. The system uses distinct DNA strands to encode digital tags with high accuracy and security, making it suitable for tracking high-value items and preventing tampering.
SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 3, 2020
Researchers found that recent population fragmentation has resulted in a significant decrease in genetic diversity among lions, with males responsible for the movement of genes. However, compared to other mammalian species, lion genetic diversity remains high across all populations.
SourceTexas A&M University·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateNov 3, 2020
A team of researchers found five different types of dogs with distinct genetic ancestries dating back to before animal domestication. The study sheds light on the origins of modern-day dogs and their relationship with humans.
New technologies are solving cold cases using DNA sequencing, robotics, and automation. Forensic genomics has made significant progress in recent years, enabling the solution of an unprecedented number of cold cases, including homicides and other violent crimes.
SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalForensic Genomics·DateSep 23, 2020
A six-year study of over 400 Viking skeletons found that many Vikings had brown hair, not blonde, and were influenced by genes from Asia and Southern Europe. The research also shows that Viking groups in Scandinavia were more isolated than previously believed.
SourceSt. John's College, University of Cambridge·JournalNature·DateSep 16, 2020
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.
A new subspecies of the rarest Palaearctic butterfly, Arctic Apollo, has been found in the Arctic Circle of Yakutia. The species, named Parnassius arcticus arbugaevi, exhibits distinct physical and DNA differences from other Arctic Apollo populations.
SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalActa Biologica Sibirica·DateSep 8, 2020
Researchers at KAUST have developed an approach to detect rare gene mutations in a pool of cells, which is crucial for early cancer detection and evaluating CRISPR/Cas9 editing outcomes. The technique, called IDMseq, accurately detects single mutations and analyzes large DNA deletions with high accuracy and sensitivity.
SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalGenome Biology·DateAug 26, 2020
Researchers sequenced ancient DNA from 14 woolly rhinoceroses and found that the species remained stable and diverse until temperatures rose too high for them, leading to extinction around 18,500 years ago. Genetic mutations helped the animals adapt to colder weather, but climate change ultimately contributed to their demise.
Scientists at UC Berkeley and RUB develop technique to read complex metal arrangement in MOFs using atom probe tomography, enabling encoding of multiple chemical functions. This breakthrough could lead to programmable substances and revolutionize material synthesis.
SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience·DateAug 7, 2020
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.
Researchers have discovered that older mice have a higher number of new mutations in their mitochondrial genomes than younger mice. This finding could have significant implications for understanding human reproductive health and the causes of genetic diseases.
Researchers identify genetic mutation contributing to reproductive isolation between carrion and hooded crows due to differences in plumage color. The mutation appears to have been favored by natural selection, potentially providing a selective advantage in hot regions.
SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 14, 2020
Researchers have developed a new method for estimating fish populations by analyzing environmental DNA in water. The approach, which accounts for the degradation of DNA molecules, has been successfully tested in Japan and shows promise for quantitative monitoring of aquatic ecosystems.
SourceNational Institute for Environmental Studies·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateJul 3, 2020
A study by IBS researchers compared 13 SpCas9 variants and identified optimal PAM sequences, finding evoCas9 has highest specificity but low activity. A computational tool, DeepSpCas9variants, was developed to predict SpCas9 variant activities, providing a useful guide for researchers.
SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJun 25, 2020
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.
A patient-personalized sequencing pipeline, INVAR, enhances the sensitivity of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) detection in plasma samples. This technique analyzes hundreds of patient-specific mutations to detect ctDNA, enabling more accurate monitoring and potentially early relapse spotting.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 17, 2020