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Novel way to ID disease-resistance genes in chocolate-producing trees found

A new study has discovered a way to identify disease-resistance genes in cacao trees, which could lead to the development of more sustainable farming systems and improved crop yields. The method uses genome sequencing to rapidly identify resistant genotypes and provides insights into the genetic diversity of cacao trees.

SourcePenn State·JournalTree Genetics & Genomes·DateDec 6, 2019

Scientists build a 'Hubble Space Telescope' to study multiple genome sequences

Researchers have developed a new tool that can analyze 1.4 million genetic sequences simultaneously, allowing them to study species relationships on a larger scale than before. This technology has the potential to reconstruct how life has evolved over hundreds of millions of years and unlock secrets about the code of life.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateDec 2, 2019
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.

Discovering hidden plant medicines on your doorstep

A team from the Earlham Institute is exploring the chemical diversity of UK plants to identify new medicines, including those found in foxgloves and willow trees. The project aims to understand how plants produce complex chemicals and unlock new pathways for biomanufacturing.

SourceEarlham Institute·DateNov 26, 2019

Tree maladaptation to current climates

A study on valley oak found that populations grow faster at cooler temperatures, suggesting the need for new conservation methods to mitigate warming temperature effects. Selecting seed sources based on genotype may alleviate declining growth rates.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 25, 2019

Study tracks genomic changes that reinforce darter speciation

Researchers tracked genomic changes in hybrid orangethroat and rainbow darters, finding regions with genetic divergence contributing to reproductive incompatibility. These differences likely disrupt cell division and alter gene expression, driving the evolution of distinct traits.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateNov 25, 2019

Aquatic microorganisms offer important window on the history of life

Researchers have developed a new technique to study flagellate organisms, tiny eukaryotic creatures that provide clues about the emergence of complex life on Earth. By analyzing mitochondrial DNA and exploiting unique protein structures, scientists can fill in the gaps of the eukaryotic puzzle and better understand the history of life.

SourceArizona State University·DateNov 25, 2019

American University researchers sequence genome of the 'devil worm'

The Devil Worm's genome reveals an unusually large number of heat-shock proteins and extra copies of cellular survival genes, suggesting its evolutionary adaptation to lethal environmental conditions. The discovery may provide lessons for humans on how to adapt to a warming climate, with potential applications in understanding life bey...

SourceAmerican University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 21, 2019
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.

New genetic analysis improves diagnosis of intellectual disability

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet developed a new analytical tool to diagnose intellectual disability through whole-genome sequencing, discovering point mutations, structural chromosome aberrations, and expansions. This method was found to be more effective than traditional gene dose array tests in identifying genetic causes.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalGenome Medicine·DateNov 6, 2019

Harvesting genes to improve watermelons

An international team of researchers has created a comprehensive watermelon genome resource to help plant breeders increase the domestic fruit's quality and ability to thrive during an era of climate change. The resource includes genetic insights into wild watermelon species and their potential for disease resistance, paving the way fo...

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateNov 1, 2019
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.

Butterfly genes flow

Researchers analyzed genome assemblies of 20 butterfly species and found a high amount of gene flow among them, even between distantly related species. This challenges the idea that species are fixed entities and suggests hybridization as a key process in biological diversity.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateOct 31, 2019

Re-cracking the genetic code

New studies reveal a broader range of genetic code deviations than previously thought, particularly among green algae. The research suggests that these changes may have driven the evolution of unique mitochondrial genome organizations.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateOct 29, 2019

Yersinia -- a novel genomic tool for identifying strains

Researchers developed a novel genomic analysis method for classifying Yersinia strains, revealing unexpected biodiversity and new species. The tool enables accurate identification of pathogenicity, guiding patient monitoring and public health initiatives.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalMicrobial Genomics·DateOct 28, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Whole genome sequencing could help save pumas from inbreeding

Using whole genome sequencing, scientists can pinpoint populations that need an influx of new genes or identify the best pumas to move between populations. This approach may help prevent inbreeding and its consequences, such as health defects.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 18, 2019

First genome of spotted lanternfly built from a single insect

The US Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service has published the first genome of the invasive Spotted Lanternfly, obtained from a single caught-in-the-wild specimen. The genome sequencing was made possible by Pacific Biosciences' new platform that produces 10 times more data from a single run.

SourceUS Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service·JournalGigaScience·DateOct 16, 2019
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.

New research to boost global date fruit production

A team of plant scientists has launched a major project to enhance global date palm production and protection. By sequencing the genome of the ajwa date palm, researchers hope to develop methods for rapid sex determination and improve the trees' ability to resist pathogens and pests.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateOct 15, 2019

Study presents first genome sequence of Florida panther

The study presents the first genome sequence of the Florida panther, revealing increased genetic variation in the population. Genetic rescue efforts led to a tripling of genetic diversity in two offspring, alleviating genetic defect threats and promoting population growth from 20-30 to 120-230 individuals.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·DateOct 3, 2019

Identifying a gene for canine night blindness

An international team has identified the LRIT3 gene mutation responsible for congenital stationary night blindness (CSNB) in dogs, a form of blindness also affecting humans. The researchers found that the mutation affects ON bipolar cells involved in dim light vision, but the retina's structure remains relatively unaffected.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 3, 2019
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.

Confronting colony collapse

Researchers sequenced the genomes of two Varroa mite species that parasitize honey bees, finding distinct strategies for survival and evolution. The study sheds light on how parasites and hosts co-evolve, potentially revealing new approaches to combat colony collapse.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateOct 3, 2019

Genomic fluke close-up

A recent study reveals that parasitic flukes have a long evolutionary history, with genome comparisons showing significant adaptations to different hosts. The research team found that fasciolid flukes may have originated in ancient African elephants and later expanded into Eurasian herbivores.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateOct 1, 2019
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.

Scientists solve lingering mystery of poorly understood frog

A team of scientists has solved the mystery of 'Fraser's Clawed Frog', an unusual species found in West Africa. The study, published in PLOS ONE, reveals that the frog inhabits hot and arid regions of northern Cameroon and Ghana, contradicting previous assumptions about its geographic origin.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 11, 2019

'Asexual' Chagas parasite found to sexually reproduce

Scientists have discovered that the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite, responsible for Chagas disease, can reproduce sexually after analyzing its genomic code in unprecedented detail. The study reveals that some groups of parasites exhibit high levels of sexuality, while others remain abstinent.

SourceOhio University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 10, 2019

Brown trout genome will help explain species' genetic superpowers

The completed brown trout reference genome will enable scientists to identify sub-species and understand the genetic roots of this highly specialised species. This knowledge will facilitate targeted conservation efforts, particularly in light of rapid climatic change.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·DateSep 4, 2019
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.

Guacamole lovers, rejoice! The avocado genome has been sequenced

The avocado genome has been sequenced, shedding light on its ancient origins and providing a foundation for future improvements to farming. The study reveals that the popular Hass avocado inherited about 61% of its DNA from Mexican varieties and about 39% from Guatemalan ones.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2019

Targeting DNA sequencing for plant biodiversity research

A new DNA sequencing protocol enables the efficient capture and sequencing of long fragments of plastome DNA, revolutionizing plant biodiversity research. This breakthrough protocol improves genome assembly and facilitates phylogenetic analyses of non-model plant species.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateAug 5, 2019
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.

Dragon heart

The study provides insight into how the Komodo dragon's DNA encodes its astounding characteristics, including its ability to detect prey from far away. The team discovered changes in genes that increase the lizard's aerobic capacity, allowing it to achieve near-mammalian metabolism.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 29, 2019

Decoding the complex life of a simple parasite

The study provides key insight into the parasites' lifestyle, which is more complex than previously thought. Dicyemids eliminate genes to conserve energy and change their reproductive methods, highlighting their unique genetic organization.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateJul 29, 2019

Mouse, not just tick: New genome heralds change in Lyme disease fight

Researchers at UCI have sequenced the genome of the white-footed mouse, which carries the bacteria causing Lyme disease. The study provides a roadmap for fresh approaches to preventing disease transmission, including developing an environmentally-safe vaccine method.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 24, 2019

Penn engineers' 'LADL' uses light to serve up on-demand genome folding

Researchers have created a new technique called LADL that uses light to serve up on-demand genome folding, allowing for the manipulation of specific DNA loops on command. This technique combines CRISPR/Cas9 and optogenetics and has the potential to study the relationships between long-range loops and mechanisms determining gene express...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Methods·DateJul 24, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

ORNL scientists make fundamental discovery to creating better crops

Researchers at ORNL discovered a specific gene that facilitates the symbiotic relationship between plants and soil fungi, enabling crops to withstand harsh growing conditions, resist pathogens, and require less fertilizer. The breakthrough could lead to the development of bioenergy and food crops that can thrive on marginal lands.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Plants·DateJul 22, 2019

Genetic history of Nunavik Inuit

The Nunavik Inuit population has a homogenous genetic background distinct from other populations. Their genome shows evidence of adaptations in fatty acid metabolism and cellular adhesion, as well as a variant linked to increased intracranial aneurysm risk.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 22, 2019

Vampire algae killer's genetic diversity poses threat to biofuels

A recent DNA analysis revealed surprising genetic diversity in a bacterium that targets commercial algae, posing a persistent threat to the biofuels industry. The discovery suggests that treatment for one algae pest might not work for another, complicating large-scale algae cultivation.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalPhycological Research·DateJul 22, 2019

Learning to look

Researchers developed an algorithm that can identify a certain type of bacterial viruses called inoviruses, significantly expanding their known diversity. The tool was trained on a reference dataset and combed through over 70,000 microbial and metagenome datasets, ultimately identifying more than 10,000 inovirus-like sequences.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJul 22, 2019
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.

Unravelling the 3-dimensional genomic structure of male germ cells

A study reveals the three-dimensional genomic structure of male germ cells, showing a fine-tuned balance between chromatin remodelling and architectural proteins. This structure determines gene expression in these cells, which are essential for reproduction.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 10, 2019
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.

The ancient history of Neandertals in Europe

Researchers have retrieved nuclear genome sequences from ancient Neandertal fossils, providing a unique glimpse into the early history of European Neandertals. The study reveals that these ancient individuals were more closely related to later Neandertals in Europe than to those in Siberia, shedding new light on human migration patterns.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 26, 2019

New gene editor harnesses jumping genes for precise DNA integration

Researchers have developed a new gene editing tool called INTEGRATE that harnesses bacterial jumping genes to insert any DNA sequence into the genome without cutting DNA. This technology offers a precise and reliable alternative to current gene-editing tools, which can lead to errors.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature·DateJun 12, 2019

Speeding up potato cultivation by using new methods

Researchers at HHU are developing tools for genomic selection in potatoes to breed disease-resistant, climate-adapted varieties with higher nutrition values. The PotatoTools project aims to create generally applicable methods and tools for genetic analysis, despite the absence of a reference genome sequence.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·DateJun 4, 2019
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.

Group A strep genome research expedites vaccine development efforts

Researchers identified a common gene signature in almost all global Strep A strains through genomic sequencing of thousands of genomes from over 20 countries. This finding has the potential to aid in the development of an effective global vaccine, which could combat the bacterial pathogen responsible for millions of deaths annually.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 27, 2019

If you could learn every disease your child could possibly develop in life, would you?

A study suggests sorting genetic information into categories to inform parents about potential health risks, weighing benefits against potential anxiety and legal implications. The method considers the prevalence and timing of disease development, aiming to provide actionable information while respecting patient autonomy.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateMay 24, 2019

Researchers discover how three-dimensional organization of the genome regulates cell differentiation

Researchers from the University of Minnesota Medical School discovered that large loops form between DNA sequences where a key protein Pax3 binds, and these loops are essential for the development of skeletal muscle. The study shows how 3D genome organization regulates cell differentiation in skeletal muscle formation.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2019
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.

Study reveals the evolution and diversity of Leptospira bacteria

A recent study has sequenced the genomes of Leptospira bacteria from around the globe, revealing 30 new species and reorganizing the genus into four distinct lineages. The findings provide new insights into the evolution and diversity of Leptospira bacteria, which are a major cause of zoonotic disease affecting millions worldwide.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMay 23, 2019

Scientists teach old worms new tricks

Researchers have developed new sequencing technologies to generate more complete reference genomes of Caenorhabditis elegans, a widely studied model organism. The studies provide insights into the organism's genome structure, gene regulation, and development, expanding its usefulness for biologists.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press·JournalGenome Research·DateMay 23, 2019

Reading the dark heart of chromosomes

Researchers use cutting-edge sequencing technology and microscopy to discover the sequences of all centromeres in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. They found that centromeres contain a high number of transposable elements, including retroelements, which may play a role in centromere function across species.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 14, 2019

Understanding relationship break-ups to protect the reef

Researchers are using genomic data to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying the symbiotic relationship between coral and algae. They aim to identify genes that enhance resilience in algae and help corals adapt to environmental shifts caused by climate change.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·DateMay 13, 2019

BTI scientists create new genomic resource for improving tomatoes

Researchers have created a pan-genome that captures genetic information of 725 cultivated wild tomatoes, revealing nearly 5,000 new genes. This resource promises to help breeders develop more flavorful and sustainable varieties, potentially reducing the need for pesticides.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 13, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Kinship and violence in Neolithic Poland

A genomic study of a mass grave in Neolithic Poland reveals an extended family structure, with mothers and children together, but older males absent. The analysis suggests that the massacre may have been linked to the expansion of Corded Ware groups, supporting the notion that violence was a common response to population pressure.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 6, 2019

How lifestyle affects our genes

Research at Lund University explores how lifestyle affects gene activity in human tissues, including adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, pancreatic islets, liver, and blood. The study reveals the role of epigenetic changes in disease development and potential novel treatments.

SourceLund University·JournalCell Metabolism·DateApr 23, 2019
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.