Researchers used genomics to discover the New Guinea singing dog still thrives in the Highlands of New Guinea. The study reveals that captive dogs have lost genomic variation due to inbreeding, threatening their survival.
SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 31, 2020
A new study reveals a wide array of previously unknown microbial defense mechanisms against viral threats, with 29 widespread novel defense mechanisms found in nearly one-third of all sequenced prokaryote genomes.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 27, 2020
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Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
Researchers have published the most comprehensive genome information for three troublesome agricultural weeds, which could lead to better understanding of herbicide resistance. The genomes will help identify specific enzymes responsible for detoxifying herbicides, enabling scientists to develop new control methods.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateAug 27, 2020
Scientists from the University of Tsukuba found that retrotransposons may change how genes are expressed in melons. In a study published in Communications Biology, researchers discovered that retrotransposons had a role in altering gene expression when melon genomes were diversifying and affecting fruit ripening.
SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalCommunications Biology·DateAug 25, 2020
Researchers from Kazan Federal University have successfully sequenced the genome of Lactobacillus hilgardii LMG 7934, a type of bacteria that can be genetically reprogrammed to consume more nitrates. This allows for potential use in remediating environmental pollution and improving livestock feed.
SourceKazan Federal University·JournalCurrent Microbiology·DateAug 19, 2020
Researchers from the University of Turku discovered a novel molecular mechanism in conifers that enables them to adapt to winter conditions by dissipating excess light energy as heat. This finding sheds new light on photosynthesis regulation and its importance for conifer forests' carbon sink capacity.
SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 18, 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.
New research sheds light on penguin evolution, revealing a pivotal role for climate change in their geographic expansion. Genetic analysis indicates that penguins originated along temperate coastlines before expanding into Antarctic regions.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2020
A new study reveals that penguins originated along the coasts of Australia and New Zealand, 22 million years ago. The researchers also found that penguins are not adapting quickly enough to changing climate conditions, putting many populations at risk.
SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2020
The study completes the genome assembly of F. oxysporum f.sp. lini, a highly destructive fungal parasite infecting flax. This milestone contributes to the development of resistant crop varieties and aids in eliminating plant disease outbreaks.
SourcePeter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·DateAug 14, 2020
Scientists have deciphered the ancient genome of the tuatara, a reptile native to New Zealand, revealing patterns that shed light on vertebrate evolution and genomic structure. The study's findings confirm the evolutionary position of the tuatara and provide insights into human genomes.
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
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 genome sequencing technology has been used to decode the full genome of black mustard, providing insights into its genetic variation and traits. The research advances breeding of oilseed mustard crops and provides a foundation for improved breeding of wheat, canola, and lentils.
SourceUniversity of Saskatchewan·JournalNature Plants·DateAug 10, 2020
The study reveals a remarkable genetic connection between the tuatara, a reptile that lived with dinosaurs, and mammals such as platypus and echidna. The genome analysis shows an unusual combination of mammalian and reptilian components, with some sequences similar to those found in platypus.
SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature·DateAug 5, 2020
Researchers analyzed 48,635 coronavirus genomes, revealing the six strains of SARS-CoV-2 and their global spread. The study found that strain G and its related strains GR and GH are the most frequent, representing 74% of all gene sequences.
SourceUniversità di Bologna·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateAug 3, 2020
A recent study published in Nature Genetics has shed light on the genetic diversity of European flint maize, revealing distinct differences between lines. The research highlights the importance of sequencing the entire pangenome of a species to fully understand its genetics.
SourceLeibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research·JournalNature Genetics·DateJul 27, 2020
Scientists charted SARS-CoV-2 transmission in Brazil, revealing that non-pharmaceutical interventions were insufficient to control the spread. The study found over 100 internationally-sourced virus introductions from Europe and estimates that more than 75% of Brazilian strains fell under three clades introduced during a specific period.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 23, 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 sequenced over 1,000 viral genomes to identify 35 clusters of genetically identical viruses involving 159 patients. The study also showed a decline in patient admissions with COVID-19 and a rapid decrease in asymptomatic healthcare workers testing positive.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateJul 14, 2020
Researchers have identified 32 genes associated with cannibalistic eating behavior in mandarin fish, which feed exclusively on living juvenile fish of their own species. This behavior leads to high mortality rates and economic losses in aquaculture.
SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalCommunications Biology·DateJul 9, 2020
Researchers mapped non-coding genome in maize during early developmental window to understand inflorescence differentiation. The study provides a roadmap for adjusting gene expression precisely to improve grain yield and ear traits.
SourceDonald Danforth Plant Science Center·JournalGenome Biology·DateJul 7, 2020
Researchers at OIST Graduate University have identified previously unknown sections of DNA that are silenced by epigenetic regulation in plant cells. The study reveals a crucial role of these sites in suppressing the activity of disruptive 'jumping genes' called transposons, which can threaten genome integrity.
SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 30, 2020
Researchers sequenced ancient DNA from a 9,500-year-old dog, revealing that modern sledge dogs share a common origin with the ancient breed. The study also found genetic adaptations similar to those of polar bears and Arctic people.
SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalScience·DateJun 25, 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.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have discovered over 230,000 DNA differences across 100 tomato varieties, allowing for rapid identification and evaluation of genetic mutations. This breakthrough enables breeders to create new crops with desirable traits, such as increased size and flavor.
Researchers sequenced and compared the genomes of 100 different tomato varieties, identifying over 230,000 structural variants that underpin the vast diversity among tomatoes. These genomic variations affect flavor, yield, and other traits, providing breeders with new power to improve tomato properties.
SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalCell·DateJun 17, 2020
A Neandertal fossil found in Chagyrskaya Cave suggests that the species may have lived in small groups of less than 60 individuals. The study's findings also suggest a unique role for the striatum region of the brain in Neandertals, potentially influencing cognition and behavior.
SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 17, 2020
Scientists have identified long-concealed genetic mutations in tomatoes using a new technique called long-read sequencing. The analysis reveals that these mutations can alter key characteristics such as flavor and weight. By studying the impact of these mutations, researchers hope to create new tomato varieties with improved traits.
SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalCell·DateJun 17, 2020
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.
The bitter gourd's genome shows unusual domestication patterns, revealing its divergence from wild strains 6000 years ago. The study provides insights into the evolution of this summer vegetable, which has been prized for its health benefits and medicinal properties.
SourceShinshu University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2020
A new platform enables researchers to track changes in the SARS-CoV-2 virus' genetic structure, providing insights for vaccine design and combating the pandemic. The tool, developed by UHN AI scientist Dr. Bo Wang, analyzes nasal swab samples and compares them to global data, generating results in under 15 minutes.
SourceUniversity Health Network·JournalThe Lancet Digital Health·DateJun 12, 2020
Data scientists create new statistical models and visualization software to understand COVID-19 pandemic. They integrate diverse factors like airline traffic patterns, socioeconomic data, and weather conditions into a single platform.
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.
The study mapped bacterial resistance to last-line antibiotics in the Philippines, enabling better tracking of resistant bacteria and controlling outbreaks. The genomic capacity has enhanced national infection control efforts and improved understanding of antimicrobial resistance at local, national, and international scales.
SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 5, 2020
Researchers created a way to track the spread of Agrobacterium, a bacterium causing crown-gall disease affecting over 100 plant species, worth $16 billion annually. The method can also be applied to human and animal diseases and foodborne outbreaks.
SourceOregon State University·JournalScience·DateJun 4, 2020
A new study of 84 patients reveals that the first COVID-19 cases in New York City were mainly introduced through untracked transmission from Europe and the US, with limited evidence suggesting a potential Asian origin. The findings also highlight the importance of early and broad testing to identify community transmission clusters.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 29, 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 collaboration between Otago University and ESR has received a grant to sequence all of New Zealand's positive COVID-19 cases. The team will create a web browser application to track the virus's evolution, epidemiology, and transmission chains in NZ.
MetaviralSPAdes is a new assembler for virus genomes, enabling biologists to reconstruct complete viral genomes from metagenome sequencing results. This tool tackles the challenge of identifying and stitching together viral sequences from thousands of bacterial genomes.
SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalBioinformatics·DateMay 25, 2020
Researchers from St Petersburg University have deciphered the Intoshia variabili gene, revealing a genome size of 15.3 million base pairs and 5,120 genes, including orphan genes unique to orthonectids. The study provides genetic evidence that orthonectids belong to Annelida, a type of animal with no real intraorganism parasites.
SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 20, 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.
Researchers create true diploid genomes from a single individual using an innovative genome assembly strategy, applicable to cattle breeds and potentially other species including humans. The technique, called trio binning, disentangles maternal and paternal genomes, revealing important genetic differences between breeds.
SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 6, 2020
Researchers at ASU have found a unique SARS-CoV-2 mutation with 81 deleted letters, similar to one from the 2003 SARS outbreak. The discovery was made using next-generation sequencing technology and has attracted global interest from scientists, including the World Health Organization.
SourceArizona State University·JournalJournal of Virology·DateMay 4, 2020
A team of HKUST researchers has analyzed the genome sequence of the scaly-foot snail, a deep-sea creature with armor-like scales. The study reveals that the snail's unique morphology is largely determined by genes already present in other mollusks, such as squid and pearl oysters.
SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 28, 2020
The study found that wild and domesticated cotton genomes are remarkably similar, with less diversity between species than within humans or cells. This limits the ability to introduce beneficial traits like disease resistance through gene mining.
SourceHudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 21, 2020
The study reveals that despite its widespread distribution, the cotton genome is remarkably stable, with only minor differences between species. This knowledge can inform breeding practices and improve crop yields.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 20, 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 identified extremely rare variants that affect the boundaries of a 3D genome structure called topologically associated domains (TADs) in people with schizophrenia. These variants may contribute to dysregulation of gene expression, leading to the development of the disease.
SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 16, 2020
Researchers at UC Davis cleared a major obstacle to using CRISPR-Cas9 gene drive technology to control mosquito-borne diseases. A study found that 90% of protein-coding genes in mosquito populations have suitable target sequences for the gene drive, making it effective against disease-causing viruses and parasites.
SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 16, 2020
A research team led by Jonathan Losos will sequence the genomes of 200 species of Anolis lizards and introduce genetic changes using CRISPR to test their effects on adaptation. The study aims to identify genes responsible for evolutionary adaptation in Central American lizards.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·DateApr 8, 2020
A study found that 54.8% of COVID-19 cases imported to Brazil by March 5 came from Italy, while 24.9% traveled from Italy to São Paulo. The virus spread quickly in Brazil, with the first cases reported in São Paulo City, and sustained community transmission now prevails.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Travel Medicine·DateApr 7, 2020
Scientists have mapped the genome of the German shepherd, providing a reference for future studies of diseases that afflict this breed. The completed genome will enable early detection and development of breeding programs to reduce genetic diseases like hip dysplasia.
SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalGigaScience·DateApr 1, 2020
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.
Scientists from University of Würzburg successfully sequenced sturgeon genome, showing genetic material has changed little over 250 million years. The study sheds light on the ancestry of vertebrates and provides important insights for protecting species.
SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMar 30, 2020
Researchers highlight the challenges of identifying new pathogens, citing a review that explores cutting-edge genetics methods. The study discusses the promise of next-generation sequencing but notes its high cost and complexity. Despite these limitations, experts predict the technology's growing potential in healthcare.
SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalViruses·DateMar 25, 2020
Researchers at the University of São Paulo, Adolfo Lutz Institute, and Oxford University have published the complete genome sequence of SARS-CoV-2 in Brazil. The study reveals differences between the genomes of viruses isolated from two Brazilian patients, suggesting internal transmission is occurring in European countries.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateMar 3, 2020
Research in China suggests a strong association between avian influenza and the country's live poultry trade network. Movement of virus lineages was often associated with major evolutionary divergences and was much more likely to occur within regional trade communities.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 2, 2020
Researchers are developing new algorithms to quickly compare genetic data from viruses, bacteria, and other organisms to identify pathogenic genes. This project, Pangaia, aims to make computer-assisted pangenomics faster and more user-friendly for biomedicine applications.
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.
A recent study found that the monkeyface prickleback, a unique fish species, has an efficient digestive system capable of breaking down plant material. This discovery holds promise for developing new, sustainable sources of protein for human consumption and could be an important alternative to traditional livestock farming.
Scientists from China's top research institutes discovered the novel coronavirus responsible for the Wuhan pneumonia epidemic through next-generation sequencing and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid samples. The virus is 99.8-99.9% similar among all patients' samples, closely related to bat SARS-like CoVs.
SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·DateFeb 17, 2020
The Christen Lab has successfully produced a fully artificial genome, the Caulobacter ethensis-2.0, with over 580 functional genes. This breakthrough demonstrates the promise of synthetic biology in producing designer genomes for industrial and health applications.
SourceETH Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 14, 2020
A recent study analyzing over 200 mumps virus genomes provides insights into the US outbreaks, revealing a dominant strain responsible for many cases. The research also demonstrates the value of high-quality genomic data in public health surveillance and suggests future efforts should incorporate whole genome sequencing.
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 at New York University have sequenced the genome of two basmati rice varieties, including one with improved drought tolerance and resistance to bacterial disease. The study provides insights into the evolutionary history of basmati rice and its unique genetic traits.
SourceNew York University·JournalGenome Biology·DateFeb 5, 2020
A recent study by Dr. Mark Chapman optimizes protocols for identifying simple sequence repeats (SSRs) in genomic and transcriptomic data, increasing efficiency in microsatellite discovery. The research found that small assemblies of two million read pairs can generate sufficient markers for basic population genetic studies.
SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateJan 31, 2020
Plant scientists combined second- and third-generation genomic technologies to create a more accurate and efficient method for resolving plant pathogen genomes. This breakthrough reduces the time required to sequence genome data from one-and-a-half years to just nine days, while lowering costs from $2 million to $1,000.
SourceVirginia Tech·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·DateJan 29, 2020
A recent study led by JGI uncovered a broad diversity of large and giant viruses belonging to the NCLDV supergroup. The genomes of these viruses are significantly larger than previously known, with some being up to 100 times the size of typical viruses.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateJan 22, 2020
The new tool, 'Kmasker plants', enables researchers to identify repetitive sequences in plant genomes and assign them to positions. This allows for the rapid analysis of complex genomes and can help identify sequence candidate regions with agronomic importance.
SourceLeibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research·JournalThe Plant Journal·DateJan 21, 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.
African swine fever virus can replicate in various pig cells and has a relatively conservative genome. Whole-genome sequencing is crucial for understanding the transmission route of ASFV. Nanopore sequencing technology proved more efficient than traditional next-generation sequencing methods in obtaining viral genomes.
SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·DateJan 16, 2020
Researchers successfully sequenced and annotated the giant squid's genome, providing a unique opportunity to explore its evolutionary history. The genomic draft reveals insights into the giant squid's size, growth rate, and age.
SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalGigaScience·DateJan 16, 2020