Researchers successfully identified all fish species in the ponds, demonstrating high accuracy of non-invasive eDNA approach. Strong positive correlations were found between eDNA quantity and actual fish biomass and abundance, paving the way for step change in future species monitoring programmes.
SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalMetabarcoding and Metagenomics·DateDec 4, 2020
A comprehensive analysis of proteins, genes, and RNA transcription in pediatric brain tumors has provided new understanding of these tumors. The study identified two distinct subgroups of pediatric craniopharyngioma with potential therapeutic avenues for treatment.
SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalCell·DateNov 25, 2020
Researchers have developed a predictive model to guide plant breeders in selecting suitable corn varieties based on genomic analysis. The study focused on predicting eight corn traits using shoot apical meristem (SAM) analysis, achieving accuracy ranging from 37% to 57% across the eight traits studied.
SourceIowa State University·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·DateNov 23, 2020
The study analyzed a microarray dataset to identify differentially expressed genes in dilated cardiomyopathy, revealing 172 genes involved in various biological processes. The authors identified hub protein modules and key genes, including DLD and UQCRC2, which suggest potential therapeutic targets for the disease.
SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateNov 19, 2020
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.
A new primate species, the Popa langur, has been discovered in central Myanmar, with only 200-250 individuals remaining due to habitat loss and hunting. Genetic analysis reveals it separated from known species around 1 million years ago.
SourceDeutsches Primatenzentrum (DPZ)/German Primate Center·JournalZoological Research·DateNov 10, 2020
Researchers found that the CRELD1 gene helps maintain immune function, and its low activity is linked to reduced T cell counts and increased risk of infections. The study aims to slow down immunological aging, potentially reducing illness risk in seniors.
SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Immunology·DateNov 9, 2020
Researchers discovered that clonal hematopoiesis, a phenomenon where non-cancer DNA mutations are present in blood plasma, is confounding prostate cancer liquid biopsy results. This can lead to false positives and incorrect treatment for patients undergoing liquid biopsies.
SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateNov 5, 2020
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.
A study found that DSCR-1 suppresses oxidized LDL cholesterol production and angiogenic signaling, protecting against corneal opacity. High DSCR-1 expression also reduced vascular diseases such as atherosclerosis and hypertension.
Scientists at The Wistar Institute have developed a synthetic DNA vaccine against Powassan virus, which causes a deadly tick-borne disease with neurological consequences. The vaccine elicits broad immune responses in mice and provides protection in a challenge animal model.
SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateOct 30, 2020
The study analyzed over 591,000 chemical-gene interactions and found that almost every well-known molecular pathway is sensitive to chemicals to a certain degree. The researchers identified genes and pathways most sensitive to chemical exposures, including aging, lipid metabolism, and autoimmune disease.
SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalChemosphere·DateOct 29, 2020
A new DNA test developed by Flinders University can accurately determine the legal status of seized ivory samples, even in highly degraded state. The technique has shown 100% identification accuracy and correct assignment in the legal status of 227 highly degraded ivories.
SourceFlinders University·JournalInternational Journal of Legal Medicine·DateOct 26, 2020
The NanDeSyn Database collects and integrates functional genomics data for industrial microalgae, including genome sequences, gene annotations, and transcriptomes. This will facilitate research cooperation among the global Nannochloropsis community to develop the microalgae as a chassis for photosynthetic production of oils.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalThe Plant Journal·DateOct 26, 2020
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 analysis found that the critically endangered vaquita remains genetically healthy despite its low population numbers. The study suggests that the species' ability to survive at low numbers is not doomed to extinction and gives hope for conservation efforts.
SourceNOAA Fisheries West Coast Region·JournalMolecular Ecology Resources·DateOct 23, 2020
A study analyzing ancient DNA from Tibetan Plateau remains found that prehistoric bovids were genetically similar to modern Asian wild gaurs and diverged approximately 18,000 years ago. Rhinoceroses roamed the region between 8,000 to 6,000 years ago, suggesting a warm and moist environment at the time.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2020
Researchers found genes involved in sensory perception showed accelerated evolution, including those for light perception, dim-light vision, and retina development. The study also identified 32 genes related to DNA packaging and chromosome condensation, which may enable owls to channel light more efficiently.
SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateOct 16, 2020
Researchers have developed a blood test that uses cell-free DNA to predict pregnancy complications such as ischemic placental disease and gestational diabetes. The study found that certain genetic signatures in the mother's blood during the first trimester can indicate these serious complications.
SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalEpigenetics·DateOct 13, 2020
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.
Rover Diagnostics' affordable and portable point-of-care test provides reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) results in eight minutes, faster than any other test of its kind. The platform is designed to be targeted at locations where rapid turnaround results are important.
SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateOct 1, 2020
A study of 45,000 healthy adults found associations between 160 genes and brain shrinkage in the cortex, a dimply outer layer of the brain. The findings may lead to new targets for developing drugs to intervene before disease symptoms appear.
SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 25, 2020
A genetic analysis of over 850,000 Europeans found a link between obesity-related genes and an increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis. Obesity was shown to be associated with a higher risk of rheumatoid arthritis for both men and women.
SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateSep 23, 2020
Researchers found that irisin altered the expression of genes regulating ACE-2, a key protein in viral entry. Irisin also tripled levels of TRIB3 transcription, which has been linked to lower replication of SARS-CoV-2. The study suggests irisin's therapeutic potential for COVID-19 treatment.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalMolecular and Cellular Endocrinology·DateSep 22, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
A team of entomologists from St. Petersburg State University has discovered a new species of tropical Heteroptera, Tatupa grafei, characterized by its golden color and distinctive long antennae. The discovery sheds light on the biodiversity of the island of Borneo and highlights the importance of preserving these unique organisms.
SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalZooKeys·DateSep 22, 2020
A study found genetic variants associated with a dental anomaly and smaller body size in dogs, particularly in toy breeds. These variants affect the processing of growth hormone and RNA enzymes, leading to reduced height and weight.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 21, 2020
Scientists have identified a novel R gene in a diploid wild potato that confers high resistance to the oomycete Phytophthora infestans, the causative agent of late blight. This discovery provides new resources for breeding improved potato varieties and offers insights into the mechanisms underlying plant immunity.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytopathology·DateSep 21, 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.
Researchers have confirmed that variants in the LMNB1 gene cause syndromic microcephaly by disrupting the nuclear envelope, leading to misshapen nuclei and impaired function. The study highlights a new genetic cause of congenital abnormalities and broadens the understanding of laminopathies.
SourceGreenwood Genetic Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateSep 17, 2020
KAUST scientists propose a roadmap for molecular ecologists, policymakers, and stakeholders to collaborate on DNA-based approaches for marine monitoring. DNA barcoding and metabarcoding can save time and money by identifying species from small DNA fragments.
SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateSep 16, 2020
Domestic horses probably did not originate in Anatolia, according to a new study of ancient horse remains. The researchers found that nonlocal genetic lineages appeared suddenly in about 2000 BCE, suggesting an origin in nearby Black Sea regions.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 16, 2020
Researchers at Colorado State University found a genetic mutation associated with dogs having hypothyroidism being less likely to develop T-zone lymphoma. The study suggests that a region of chromosome 8 linked to thyroid hormone regulation may play a crucial role in the development of the disease.
SourceMorris Animal Foundation·JournalBMC Genomics·DateSep 14, 2020
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.
The Australian labradoodle breed is primarily composed of poodle genetics, with smaller contributions from Labrador retrievers and spaniels. This study's findings suggest that selective breeding for a poodle-like coat has led to the development of hypoallergenic traits in the breed.
The GTEx project reveals population-specific and sex-specific differences in gene expression that can inform how gene variants impact aging and disease. The findings highlight the importance of accounting for sex differences and individual variation in future studies.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 10, 2020
Researchers discovered dodder plants synchronize flowering with host plants by eavesdropping on their FT signaling protein. This unique behavior allows dodders to thrive by parasitizing diverse hosts without fixed flowering times.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 31, 2020
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.
Researchers at Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology have identified new genetic markers for controlling glucosinolate content in rapeseed. This discovery can help crop breeders create oil-rich rapeseed varieties, improving oil quality.
SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalGenes·DateAug 27, 2020
A study by Dr. Jianye Ge and colleagues suggests that millions of DNA testing cases may be incorrectly interpreted due to limited genetic information. The new technology has been shown to substantially reduce the chance of mistakes in kinship relationship testing, which could have serious consequences for individuals and families.
SourceUniversity of North Texas Health Science Center·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateAug 17, 2020
Researchers have identified an array of new genes that cause stillbirth, significantly increasing the understanding of the condition's genetic foundations. The findings suggest that genetic analysis could be used to counsel parents who have previously experienced stillbirth and unlock new human biology.
SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 12, 2020
A comprehensive assessment of genomic sequencing as a standalone newborn screening tool found it comes up short, missing about 160 cases and incorrectly identifying 8,000. However, sequencing can still be useful in suspicious cases not clearly identified by MS/MS.
SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 10, 2020
A comprehensive genomic study of cervical cancers in sub-Saharan Africa has identified unique features associated with HIV-positive and HIV-negative patients. The study found distinct gene expression patterns for HPV types and epigenetic changes linked to aggressive tumors, providing potential treatment options.
SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 10, 2020
GoPro HERO13 Black
GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.
A new model of screening combines better risk assessment, noninvasive testing options, and targeted referrals for colonoscopy to save more lives. The American Gastroenterological Association proposes a universal approach to screening that reaches more people and offers alternatives to colonoscopy.
SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateAug 3, 2020
A team of researchers found that genes related to blood pressure regulation appear excessively 'turned on' in lung fluid cells of COVID-19 patients, leading to excessive bradykinin production. This overproduction causes leaky blood vessels and increased hyaluronic acid levels, resulting in inflammation and severe symptoms.
Researchers developed a computational tool called PolyA-miner to analyze alternative polyadenylation (APA) sites in RNA strands. The tool precisely identifies novel APA sites that were not detected by traditional analytical approaches, revealing new insights into gene regulation.
SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJul 23, 2020
A new assay detects intact HIV latent proviruses at higher frequencies than previous methods, revealing a significant amount of intact virus in infected individuals; this finding is crucial for developing an HIV cure. The study provides a benchmark for assessing persistent proviral DNA and its composition.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 2020
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 analyzed nearly 300 human SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and found IGHV3-53 is the most frequently used gene for targeting the virus spike protein. This gene leads to highly potent antibodies with lower mutation rates, making them promising for vaccine design.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 13, 2020
A new precision gene editor for mitochondrial DNA has been developed, allowing scientists to make targeted changes without the need for CRISPR technology. This breakthrough could enable researchers to study rare diseases and basic mitochondrial biology in animals.
SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateJul 8, 2020
A study by Baylor College of Medicine researchers integrates whole-exome sequencing with untargeted metabolomics to identify genetic causes of undiagnosed conditions. The integrated analysis informed 44% of cases, reclassifying variants as likely benign or disease-causing and confirming clinical diagnoses in 21 cases.
SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateJul 7, 2020
A study funded by NIH analyzed nearly 900 women with irregular menstrual periods and identified two PCOS subtypes, each associated with distinct groups of gene variants. The reproductive subtype had higher levels of luteinizing hormone and lower BMI, while the metabolic group had a higher BMI and insulin levels.
SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 23, 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 study reveals that long-tailed tits employ learned vocal cues to distinguish between close kin and non-kin, thereby avoiding incest. This unique strategy helps the birds maintain genetic diversity and is crucial for their reproductive success.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 22, 2020
A new study in The American Journal of Pathology reports that gene expression analysis of lung explant tissue can accurately differentiate pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) from pulmonary veno-occlusive disease (PVOD). This molecular approach promises to facilitate clinical diagnostics and develop novel target-specific intervention...
SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateJun 15, 2020
Researchers are collecting DNA data from popular home genetic-testing kits to identify key genes involved in the body's response to Covid-19. The study, called Coronagenes, aims to understand why some people become ill while others remain symptom-free.
A new gene has been discovered that reduces pollen number in plants, a trait previously thought to be detrimental. The RDP1 gene promotes protein production, suggesting a potential advantage in self-fertilizing species.
SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 8, 2020
Researchers have developed a new method called redHUMAN to simplify genome-scale metabolic models for analyzing human metabolism. This approach reduces the complexity of human genome-scale models by focusing on specific parts of metabolism while minimizing information loss.
SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 4, 2020
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.
Scientists at UCL have discovered sets of regulatory genes responsible for maintaining healthy hearing in fruit flies. They found that manipulating these genes could prevent age-related hearing loss in humans, and have already started a follow-up drug discovery project to fast-track novel treatments.
SourceUniversity College London·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 2, 2020
Scientists used ancient DNA to link fragments of Dead Sea Scrolls, revealing new insights into their meaning and historical context. The analysis found that scrolls made from the same animal skin were more likely to belong together.
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
Researchers created an experimental diagnostic test for COVID-19 that visually detects the virus in 10 minutes, without advanced laboratory techniques. The test uses plasmonic gold nanoparticles to detect a color change when the virus is present.
SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalACS Nano·DateMay 29, 2020
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.
Researchers analyzed 73 ancient genomes and found that the Canaanites descended from a mixture of local Neolithic populations and Iranian/Caucasus-related ancestry. This study sheds light on the cultural and genetic similarity among city-states, and how migration from the northeast may have influenced the region's culture.
A recent study analyzed datasets on rice plants across Asia to predict traits based on genetics and environment. The researchers found patterns in temperature profiles and geographic distribution of genetic haplotypes, which suggest preferential adaptation to different temperature zones.
SourceIowa State University·JournalGenome Research·DateMay 27, 2020
A new testing system developed by researchers at the University of Chicago can quantify bacteria, antibiotic-resistant genes, and immune molecule levels in sepsis patients, predicting patient outcomes with high accuracy. This innovative approach enables personalized treatment strategies and may improve patient survival rates.
SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 26, 2020
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.
A groundbreaking study published in iScience has created a detailed 3D map of the intracardiac nervous system (ICN), the 'little brain' of the heart. The researchers used novel imaging techniques to reveal previously unknown complexity and diversity of molecular identities among neurons.
SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournaliScience·DateMay 26, 2020
A genome-wide analysis has identified 19 new genetic risk factors for problematic alcohol use and confirmed 10 previously known factors. The study also found shared genetic associations with psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety.
SourceYale University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMay 25, 2020
A new study suggests that a comprehensive multi-drug regimen for heart failure could significantly extend patients' lives, with potential benefits of up to six years and eight years free from cardiovascular events. The regimen, which combines newer therapies, may improve life expectancy across all age groups.
SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 21, 2020
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.
Researchers have discovered a rare disease called TRAF7 syndrome, characterized by distinctive facial features, cardiac defects, and intellectual disability. The study analyzed 45 new patients, expanding on previous research with seven individuals, to define the clinical picture of this condition.
SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateMay 19, 2020
A recent study has identified 32 new sites on the human genome where variations in DNA appear to alter the risks of getting specific subtypes of breast cancer. The analysis, covering over 266,000 women, may eventually improve the ability to predict breast cancer risks at a subtype level.
SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 18, 2020