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In pioneering study, gene technology outperforms standard newborn screening tests

A pioneering study shows that DNA analysis picks up many more preventable and treatable serious health conditions than standard newborn screening, improving children's medical care. Genome sequencing detects gene variants linked to hundreds of specific diseases, far exceeding the 60 disorders detected by current methods.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateOct 24, 2024

A visit from the stork brings genomic hope for this endangered species

A new genomic study reveals high genetic diversity and low inbreeding in the endangered Oriental Stork population, a common finding in many critically endangered species. The study provides hope for the species' long-term survival and suggests that protecting its habitats could rapidly rescue this species from extinction.

SourceGigaScience·JournalGigaScience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 21, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Global effort to map the human brain releases first data

The BICAN Rapid Release Inventory provides early access to single-cell transcriptomic and epigenomic profiles from humans and other mammalian species. This open data release aims to accelerate discoveries in neuroscience by facilitating collaboration and data reuse among researchers.

SourceAllen Institute·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 1, 2024

Insights into South African population history from 10,000-year-old human DNA

Researchers analyzed ancient genomes from the Oakhurst rock shelter in southern Africa, finding that the oldest genomes are genetically similar to San and Khoekhoe groups living today. The study reveals a long history of relative genetic stability until around 1,200 years ago when newcomers introduced new cultures and languages.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateSep 19, 2024

Improved epidemic monitoring via sewage

A new study from European universities has developed a method to analyze wastewater data from seven major cities, identifying thousands of disease-causing bacteria, viruses, and antimicrobial resistance. This approach can detect potential health threats simultaneously, potentially preventing epidemics from escalating into outbreaks.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 17, 2024
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Researchers sequence the genome of the spur-thighed tortoise

Scientists have successfully sequenced the genome of the spur-thighed tortoise, a threatened land turtle species, using a reference assembly method. The genome sequencing will enable conservation efforts and provide tools for protecting the species' populations.

SourceUniversidad Miguel Hernandez de Elche·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2024

Spike mutations help SARS-CoV-2 infect the brain

Researchers found a specific deletion in the spike protein that enhances the virus' ability to infect brains of mice, which could help understand 'long COVID' and develop treatments. The study suggests viruses with this deletion can traffic from the lung to the brain, leading to neurological symptoms.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Microbiology·DateAug 23, 2024

From pets to pests: how domestic rabbits survive the wilderness

A study sequenced the genomes of nearly 300 rabbits to understand their colonization success. Researchers found that domestication-linked genes are often eliminated in feral populations due to natural selection, leading to a mix of domestic and wild origin. This helps explain how domestic animals can thrive in the wild.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateAug 22, 2024
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.

Decoding the world’s largest animal genome

Researchers have sequenced the lungfish genome, which is 90 billion bases long and breaks all records for size. The study reveals that autonomous transposons are responsible for the genomic expansion, but surprisingly, the genome remains stable despite its enormous size.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature·DateAug 14, 2024

Corn’s ‘missing link’

Researchers discover a gene drive system, Teosinte Pollen Drive (TPD), that enables the quick transfer of traits from teosinte to maize. This finding sheds light on corn's rapid adaptation to the highlands and has significant implications for agriculture.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature·DateAug 7, 2024
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.

New study confirms mammal-to-mammal avian flu spread

A Cornell University study reveals efficient and sustained mammalian-to-mammalian transmission of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 between cows and from cows to cats and a raccoon. The virus shows high tropism for the mammary gland and infectious viral loads in milk.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateJul 24, 2024

New genetic test will eliminate a form of inherited blindness in dogs

A new genetic test has identified a mutation causing progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) in English Shepherd Dogs, allowing breeders to eliminate the disease from their population. The test is available for purchase and will help prevent the disease from being passed on to puppies.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalGenes·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2024
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.

Special Issue of Applied Biosafety focuses on synthetic genomics

The special issue explores challenges and opportunities in managing synthetic genomics risks, introducing a common global baseline for nucleic acid synthesis screening. Review articles provide insights into enhancing gene synthesis security and biosecurity practices of synthetic DNA providers.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalApplied Biosafety·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 26, 2024

Pacific Northwest Research Institute uncovers hidden DNA mechanisms of rare genetic diseases

Researchers at PNRI reveal how specific DNA rearrangements called inverted triplications contribute to the development of various genetic diseases. These complex rearrangements are caused by segments of DNA switching templates during the repair process, leading to disruptions in normal gene function and contributing to genetic disorders.

SourcePacific Northwest Research Institute·JournalCell Genomics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2024
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.

Scientists generate the first complete chromosome sequences from non-human primates

The study reveals remarkable variation between primate Y chromosomes, showing rapid evolution and previously unstudied regions. The researchers found that over 90% of ape X chromosome sequences aligned to the human X chromosome, while only 14-27% of ape Y chromosome sequences aligned to the human Y chromosome.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 29, 2024

Bringing back an ancient bird

Researchers at Harvard University have successfully sequenced the genome of the extinct little bush moa, providing new genetic evidence about its sensory biology. The study sheds light on how and why some birds evolved to become flightless, offering clues for future de-extinction efforts.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 28, 2024

Evolutionary genomics: Consequences of biodiverse reproductive systems

A new Research Training Group will investigate the evolution of nuclear genomes in organisms using different forms of reproduction, including asexual and sexual reproduction. The group aims to better understand the dominance of sexual reproduction in nature through empirical analysis of changing and evolving genomes.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·DateMay 27, 2024
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.

Rice engineers develop innovative microbiome analysis software tools

Researchers created GraSSRep and rhea, tools that outperform current methods for handling repeats and structural variants in metagenomic data. These methods use self-supervised learning and graph neural networks to analyze microbiome data, offering new insights into biological processes and potential applications in antibiotic resistance.

SourceRice University·DateMay 6, 2024

Scientists unveil genetics behind development of gliding

A team of researchers has identified a key gene, Emx2, that helps explain the evolution of gliding in marsupials. The study found that accelerated evolution near this gene and its associated enhancers drives the development of patagium, the thin skin membrane allowing gliding.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature·DateApr 24, 2024

International DNA Day launch for Hong Kong’s Moonshot for Biology

The Hong Kong Biodiversity Genomics Consortium has launched a project to sequence the genomes of its eukaryotic biodiversity, which is rich in species but threatened by climate change. The first five genomes have been published in GigaByte Journal to coincide with International DNA Day.

SourceGigaScience·JournalGigabyte·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2024

Bella moths use poison to attract mates. Scientists are closer to finding out how

Researchers have discovered how bella moths, found in eastern North America, Central America, and the Caribbean, use toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids to guard their eggs and deter predators. The moths' ability to safely consume these toxins is linked to specific genes that may confer immunity.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 2024

A small factor makes a big impact on genome editing

Researchers identified a small RNA-binding protein called La that promotes gene editing with high efficiency. The team created a new protein, PE7, which harnesses La's activity to enhance prime editing, leaving unwanted byproducts at low frequencies.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 22, 2024
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.

Discovery could end global amphibian pandemic

Researchers have discovered a virus that infects the fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, which causes heart failure in frogs and toads. The virus could be engineered to control the fungal disease and potentially save amphibian species.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 3, 2024

Tracking the virus behind India's lumpy skin cattle crisis

A recent study has identified two distinct viral variants circulating in India, one with a low number of genetic variations and another with a high number of genetic variations. The latter variant is similar to LSDV strains from an outbreak in Russia in 2015, which may have contributed to the severity of the disease.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalBMC Genomics·DateApr 2, 2024
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.

Non-culturable Legionella identified with sequencing

Researchers have developed a cost-effective approach for identifying L. pneumophila using whole genome sequencing, which can analyze available specimens without culturing. This method has already been used to identify the source of deadly Legionnaires' disease outbreaks, including a 2015 outbreak in New York City.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalJournal of Clinical Microbiology·DateMar 21, 2024

Scientists discover how Diadem butterfly mimics African Queen

Female Diadem butterflies have evolved colours and patterns that closely match those of toxic African Queens, making them appear toxic to predators. This convergent evolution allows the Diadems to avoid being eaten by birds and other predators.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateMar 18, 2024
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.

Microalgae with unusual cell biology

Researchers studied Prorocentrum cordatum to understand its molecular processes, revealing a unique photosynthetic machinery that may help it adapt to changing light conditions. The findings could lead to improved understanding of harmful algal blooms and their role in climate change.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 5, 2024

Whole genome sequencing reveals new genetic marker for cardiomyopathy

A new genetic marker for cardiomyopathy has been identified through whole genome sequencing, suggesting that tandem repeat expansions may cause four percent of cases. This discovery provides a promising lead for early detection and the development of precision therapies.

SourceThe Hospital for Sick Children·JournalEBioMedicine·DateFeb 27, 2024

Copies of antibiotic resistance genes greatly elevated in humans and livestock

Researchers found duplicated antibiotic resistance genes in bacteria from environments with higher antibiotic use, increasing the likelihood of evolution and resistance to new treatments. The study suggests using antibiotics more efficiently could address the growing antibiotic resistance crisis.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2024
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.

How Covid variants can be detected more rapidly than ever

A new study reveals that genotyping technology detects Covid variants almost a week faster than traditional whole genome sequencing methods. This technique allowed for the rapid detection of Covid variant information, enabling local control measures such as contact tracing to be implemented more quickly.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalThe Lancet Microbe·TypeObservational study·DateJan 17, 2024
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.

Largest diversity study of ‘magic mushrooms’ investigates the evolution of psychoactive psilocybin production

Researchers have sequenced 52 Psilocybe specimens, including 39 species previously unsequenced, to understand the evolution of psychoactive psilocybin production. The study reveals two distinct gene orders within the psilocybin-producing gene cluster, suggesting an ancient split in the genus.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 9, 2024

The hidden identity of leukemia

Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University characterize myeloid/natural killer (NK) cell precursor acute leukemia (MNKPL) using multiomics approaches, revealing distinct molecular features. This work provides crucial details for accurate diagnoses and therapeutic decisions.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 9, 2024

Some sea cucumbers like it hot

A team of scientists sequenced the full genome of a sea cucumber collected at a hydrothermal vent, revealing expanded gene families involved in DNA repair and iron metabolism. The research provides valuable insights into the unique adaptations of marine animals to survive in extreme environments.

SourceGigaScience·JournalGigaScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 3, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Review article shows key role of Brazil in research on sugarcane for bioenergy

The review highlights Brazil's importance in global sustainability efforts, with the country having twice as many articles on sugarcane as the US. Genetic engineering techniques need improvement to increase ethanol production while minimizing crop expansion. CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing is a promising approach for precise modifications.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBioEnergy Research·DateNov 27, 2023

Genetics study shines light on health disparities for IBD

Researchers found that rare gene variants associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are less prevalent in African Americans, suggesting a different genetic contribution to the disease. The study highlights the importance of considering genetic diversity and admixture in IBD research.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalGenome Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2023
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.

Psoriasis not caused by spontaneous mutations in skin cells

Researchers sequenced skin samples from people with psoriasis and found minimal differences in mutation types between affected and unaffected skin tissue. Driver mutations were identified, but their impact on the development of psoriasis is unclear.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2023

Genomic insights for prenatal screening - The advantages of low-pass genome sequencing

A new study validates Low-Pass Genome Sequencing (LP GS) as a robust and cost-effective alternative to Chromosomal Microarray Analysis (CMA) for prenatal diagnosis. LP GS detects six additional Copy Number Variations (CNVs) in cases with negative CMA results, highlighting the importance of sequencing depth in its detection sensitivity.

SourceBGI Genomics·JournalJournal of Medical Genetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 26, 2023

What makes a carrot orange?

A genome study of over 600 carrot types finds that recessive genes controlling orange carotenoids are essential for the vegetable's orange color. The study also sheds light on carrot domestication in Western Asia and Europe during the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods, respectively.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Plants·TypeObservational study·DateSep 28, 2023
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.

Pitt surveillance system detected infection linked to eye drops months before outbreak declared

A Pittsburgh-based surveillance system detected a drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection linked to artificial tears months before the national public health alert. The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of whole genome sequencing-based surveillance in detecting outbreaks and preventing nationwide cases.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateSep 13, 2023