Add BrightSurf on Google Email
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Genomes published for major agricultural weeds

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

The secret life of melons revealed: "Jumping sequences" may alter gene expression

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
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.

Genomic analysis of penguins' evolutionary success

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

Penguins are Aussies. Or are they Kiwis?

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 flax wilt agent has been sequenced

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

After Stillbirth, New Genetic Analyses May Give Parents Answers

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.

Dinosaur relative's genome linked to mammals

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

The six strains of SARS-CoV-2

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

European maize highlights the hidden differences within a species

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 chart SARS-CoV-2 origin and transmission in Brazil, harboring one of fastest growing COVID-19 epidemics in the world

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.

Breaking the silence: scientists investigate epigenetic impact across whole genome

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

Sledge dogs are closely related to 9,500-year-old 'ancient dog'

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.

Juicy genomics

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.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalCell·DateJun 17, 2020

The DNA tricks that gave us 100 different kinds of tomatoes

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 from Chagyrskaya Cave

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

Tomato's hidden mutations revealed in study of 100 varieties

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.

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.

Genomic surveillance of antibiotic resistance in the Philippines established

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

First cases of COVID-19 in New York City primarily from European and US sources

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.

MetaviralSPAdes -- New assembler for virus genomes

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

Scientists find out which of the metazoans has the smallest known genome

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.

ASU scientific team finds new, unique mutation in coronavirus study

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

HKUST researchers unlock genomic secrets of scaly-foot snail

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

HudsonAlpha plant genomics researchers surprised by cotton genome

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

Picking up threads of cotton genomics

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.

Whole genome sequencing reveals genetic structural secrets of schizophrenia

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

Genetic variation not an obstacle to gene drive strategy to control mosquitoes

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

$1.2 million grant to study evolution of Central American lizards

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

54.8% of COVID-19 cases imported to Brazil by March 5 came from Italy

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

First complete German shepherd DNA offers new tool to fight disease

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.

Sturgeon genome sequenced

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

MIPT scientists explain why new dangerous viruses are so hard to identify

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

Two complete genome sequence for coronavirus in Brazil were published

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

Avian influenza and live poultry trade in China

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

Identifying pathogenic genes in virus strains at a glance

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.

SourceBielefeld University·DateFeb 27, 2020
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.

Veggie-loving fish could be the new white meat

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.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·DateFeb 19, 2020

The (un)usual suspect -- novel coronavirus identified

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

Computer-generated genomes

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

Understanding recent US mumps outbreaks

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.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 11, 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.

NYU scientists sequence the genome of basmati rice

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

Simplifying simple sequence repeats

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

Researchers combine technologies to resolve plant pathogen genomes

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

Advancing the application of genomic sequences through 'Kmasker plants'

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.

Nanopore sequencing of African swine fever virus

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

A sea monster's genome

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