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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
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.

Researchers discover genes behind antibiotic resistance in deadly superbug infections

Australian researchers analyzed over 1,300 Golden staph strains, linking specific genes to antibiotic resistance and the bacteria's ability to linger in the bloodstream. The study highlights the diagnostic power of integrating clinical and genomic data to develop targeted solutions for deadly superbug infections.

SourceThe Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity·JournalCell Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 12, 2023
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.

Scientists release the first complete sequence of a human Y chromosome

The team successfully completed the sequencing of the Y chromosome using long-read sequencing technology and innovative computational assembly methods. This achievement adds 41 additional protein-coding genes and provides crucial insight into reproduction, evolution, and population change.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature·DateAug 23, 2023

Ötzi: dark skin, bald head, Anatolian ancestry

A new study reveals that Ötzi had a Mediterranean-European skin tone and little to no Eastern European ancestry. His hair was likely sparse, with a predisposition to baldness. The research team used advanced sequencing technology to analyze Ötzi's genome, which has more Anatolian farmer ancestry than any of his European contemporaries.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalCell Genomics·DateAug 16, 2023

De-code of the crop

A research group at Kyoto University has successfully developed a self-fertile buckwheat variety and a new type of the crop with a sticky texture. This breakthrough could contribute to the efficient breeding of less-common orphan crops, addressing the world's growing food demands.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 2023
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.

New tool provides greater accuracy for medical biosensors

Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a new method using nanopores to advance discoveries in neuroscience and medical applications. The technique allows for real-time detection of dynamic aptamer-small molecule interactions, which can aid in understanding DNA and RNA diseases and drug discovery.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 8, 2023

Inflammation slows malaria parasite growth and reproduction in the body

Research by the Peter Doherty Institute found that inflammation alters plasma composition, hindering parasite maturation. This work reveals a new mechanism slowing down malaria parasite development in the bloodstream.

SourceThe Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity·JournalmBio·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 8, 2023

The history and future of ancient einkorn wheat Is written in its genes

Researchers sequenced einkorn wheat's genome, tracing its evolutionary history and identifying resilient properties that can be reintroduced into modern bread wheat. The study's findings provide insight into human migration and settlement, as well as potential solutions to protect the world's food supply.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The key to battling a pathogen hides in its genome

Biologists argue that building on genomic sequencing momentum is critical in society's response to future pandemics. The technology improved during the COVID-19 pandemic, but gaps remain in global infrastructure and data sharing.

SourceNorthern Arizona University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 1, 2023

Prof. Fabio Coppedè joins Current Genomics as Editor-in-Chief

Professor Coppedè's appointment aims to enhance the journal's focus on cutting-edge genomics research, covering topics like genome sequencing and functional genomics. He will lead Current Genomics to greater success by staying at the forefront of genomics discoveries and advancements.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Genomics·DateJul 11, 2023

Genome sequencing nearly twice as effective as a targeted gene-sequencing test at diagnosing genetic disorders in newborns and infants

A new national study found whole genome sequencing to be nearly twice as effective as a targeted gene sequencing test at identifying genetic disorders in newborns and infants. The targeted panel missed 40% of diagnoses that WGS captured, while also revealing 134 new genetic diagnoses.

SourceTufts University·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 11, 2023

Drug precursor biosynthesis hinges on carrier-mediated ring formation

Researchers at Hokkaido University unveil unprecedented carrier protein-mediated ring-forming step in actinopyridazone biosynthesis. The dihydropyridazinone ring is formed through a novel machinery involving Apy3, Apy4, and Apy6 proteins.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 10, 2023

Professor Tongming Yin 's team from State Key Laboratory for Tree Genetics and Breeding of Nanjing Forestry University proposed the role of MSL-lncRNAs in causing sex lability of female poplars

A study by Professor Tongming Yin's team reveals the proposed role of MSL-lncRNAs in causing sex lability of female poplars. The researchers detected multiple cis-activating elements in the MSL gene, which generated long non-coding RNAs promoting maleness and leading to female lability.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 6, 2023
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.

Illinois study reveals genetic secrets of America's favorite snack

A new study from the University of Illinois reveals a wealth of untapped diversity in popcorn's genetic code, with over 308,000 variations across the genome. The research may help improve the agronomic performance of the crop and uncover its long history of movement across North America.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalCrop Science·DateJun 27, 2023

Extinct warbler’s genome sequenced from museum specimens

Researchers confirm Bachman's warbler as a distinct species by sequencing its genome from museum specimens. The study reveals a new candidate gene involved in feather pigmentation in the group. Comparing the genomes of the extinct warbler with living sister species highlights the crucial role of museum collections in science.

SourcePenn State·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 23, 2023

The ACMG Releases 2023 Update to Secondary Findings Gene List; SF v3.2

The American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics has released its updated Secondary Findings Gene List (SF v3.2) with three new cardiovascular genes added, including CALM1, CALM2, and CALM3. The list provides guidance on reporting incidental findings in clinical exome and genome sequencing.

SourceAmerican College of Medical Genetics and Genomics·JournalGenetics in Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateJun 22, 2023

New method traces ancestry of hybrid plants and animals

A biologist at Binghamton University has developed a new method to uncover the parent species of hybrid plants and animals. By examining genomic patterns within these hybrids, researchers can identify distinct ancestries and determine the order in which chromosomes were inherited from their progenitor species.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 13, 2023

Masai giraffes more endangered than previously thought

Researchers found that giraffes on either side of the rift have not interbred for over 1,000 years, with females showing no signs of migration. The study suggests that Masai giraffes are more endangered than previously thought, requiring separate but coordinated conservation efforts.

SourcePenn State·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateJun 12, 2023
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.

Striking gold with black, brown and red rice

International researchers have identified nutrient-rich black rice varieties with improved agronomic traits, including shorter stem length and early maturity. These findings provide important resources for crop bioengineers to improve pigmented rice for human health and sustainable agriculture.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Food·DateJun 5, 2023

CHOP researchers use “deep sequencing” to identify several previously undescribed genetic variants in vascular anomalies

CHOP researchers used deep sequencing to discover several previously undescribed genetic variants in vascular anomalies, capturing low-frequency mutations that were missed by conventional methods. The study found significant improvements in symptoms for over 63% of patients, enabling targeted therapies and improved quality of life.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalNature Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 1, 2023

Identifying the gut bacteria that threaten neonatal babies

A recent study has identified the specific gut bacteria that pose a threat to neonatal babies, particularly those with necrotising enterocolitis. Researchers analyzed genomic similarities in Clostridium perfringens and found a set of strains with lower disease-causing capacity, lacking genes responsible for toxin production.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 25, 2023

Uncovering new mechanisms for wheat rust resistance

Researchers have cloned the wheat rust resistance genes Lr9 and Sr43, revealing that they encode unusual kinase fusion proteins. This breakthrough enables new options for addressing disease resistance in bread wheat and could lead to heat-resistant versions of the Sr43 gene to adapt to climate change.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 22, 2023
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.

Establishing Amazonian Morpho butterflies as a new eco-evolutionary model

Three Amazonian Morpho butterfly species have been sequenced for the first time, revealing genetic differences that maintain reproductive isolation despite sympatry. The study found Z-chromosome rearrangements and genetic divergence among gene copies, suggesting a role in speciation.

SourceGigaScience·JournalGigaScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 19, 2023

Tracking SARS-CoV-2 in Mozambique

A cutting-edge study in Mozambique found that the beta variant of SARS-CoV-2 was transmitted through regional migration from South Africa, while the delta variant entered mainly from the UK and India. The analysis also revealed that most introductions did not contribute to local spread.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 16, 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.

Study identifies genetic mutations that contribute to adult epilepsy

Researchers have identified 11 somatic mutations in the RAS/MAPK pathway that contribute to treatment-resistant adult epilepsy, suggesting the potential for repurposed anti-cancer agents as new treatments. This study provides insight into the genetic mechanisms underlying this form of epilepsy and opens up new avenues for targeted ther...

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·TypeCase study·DateMay 1, 2023
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.

Russian researchers explain origins of dangerous coronavirus variants

Researchers have identified mechanisms behind the emergence of new and contagious coronavirus variants by analyzing over three million genome sequences. The study found that concordant substitutions occurring at other sites influence the likelihood of a substitution occurring at a specific site, leading to unexpected variant emergence.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournaleLife·DateApr 28, 2023

Genome of famed sled dog Balto reveals genetic adaptations of working dogs

The study of Balto's genome provides new insights into the genetics of working dogs, revealing they were more genetically diverse and healthier than modern breeds. The analysis also identified beneficial adaptations in genes related to physical traits such as weight and skin thickness.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalScience·DateApr 27, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Newly sequenced hornet genomes could help explain invasion success

Researchers have sequenced the genomes of two hornet species, revealing clues to their invasive success. The study found rapid genome evolution and genes related to communication and smell, which may help explain why hornets are successful as invasive species across the globe.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 21, 2023

Fungal genetics could help develop novel biotechnologies

A new review paper highlights the potential of fungal biotechnology to advance various industries. By manipulating fungal genomes, researchers can develop bioinformatic tools and create sustainable biomaterials, such as machine learning algorithms for predicting mycological patterns or fungal batteries.

SourceOhio State University·JournalFrontiers in Fungal Biology·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 20, 2023

Researchers warn of tick-borne disease babesiosis

A recent study reveals the first high-quality nuclear genome sequence and assembly of Babesia duncani, a neglected species until now. The parasite's evolution and mechanism of virulence have been identified, providing leads for the development of effective therapies.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 13, 2023

5,500 people diagnosed with rare genetic diseases in major research study

A nationwide UK research study has diagnosed around 5,500 children with severe developmental disorders, identifying the genetic cause of their condition. The Deciphering Developmental Disorders study used genomic sequencing technology to provide diagnoses for families from across the UK and Ireland.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 12, 2023
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.

Who let the dingo out?

A team led by Bill Ballard has published a new study in GigaScience to propose Cooinda, an Alpine dingo, as the model specimen to represent a typical dingo. The study presents genomic and brain imaging data that sheds light on the evolutionary history of dingoes and their domestication process.

SourceGigaScience·JournalGigaScience·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 3, 2023

The giant faba bean genome finally sequenced

The giant faba bean genome has been successfully sequenced, providing a wealth of information on its genetic makeup. This breakthrough will facilitate varietal selection for traits related to protein content and yield potential, addressing global demand for plant-based proteins.

SourceINRAE - National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment·JournalNature·DateMar 23, 2023

Study shines new light on ancient microbial dark matter

An international research team analyzed over 400 Omnitrophota genomes, uncovering details about their biology and behavior. The study found that Omnitrophota are hyperactive with high metabolic rates, possibly as predators or parasites of other microorganisms.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Las Vegas·JournalNature Microbiology·DateMar 16, 2023
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.

Nara Sobreira, MD, PhD is the recipient of the 2023 Dr. Michael S. Watson Genetic and Genomic Medicine Innovation Award from the ACMG Foundation for Genetic and Genomic Medicine

Dr. Nara Sobreira has developed innovative tools like GeneMatcher and VariantMatcher to aid in rare disease diagnosis, earning her the 2023 Watson Genetic Medicine Innovation Award. She continues to work on expanding genome analysis accessibility through education and research initiatives.

SourceAmerican College of Medical Genetics and Genomics·DateMar 15, 2023

Rare in modern science: A new snake family was identified – Micrelapidae

A new snake family, Micrelapidae, was identified through an international study led by Tel Aviv University researcher Prof. Shai Meiri. The family includes only three species, two in Africa and one in Israel, and diverged from the rest of the evolutionary tree about 50 million years ago.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalMolecular Phylogenetics and Evolution·DateMar 1, 2023

Who are the first ancestors of present-day fish?

A new study by Institut Pasteur reveals that the 'bony-tongues' and 'eels' are genetically linked, shedding light on the evolutionary history of teleost fishes. The researchers sequenced genomes of several species and reconstructed relationships between different fish groups.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalScience·DateFeb 26, 2023

Scientists unveil the highest quality map of sea turtles’ genomes – their future may lie in their evolutionary history

Researchers have created detailed genetic maps of green and leatherback sea turtle genomes, providing insights into their unique adaptations and evolutionary history. The study reveals that genetic differences between the two species are mainly found on microchromosomes, which may hold the key to each species' survival.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 20, 2023
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.

Gene cluster reshuffling drives natural sunscreen evolution in lichens

Lichen-forming fungi have evolved unique gene clusters to produce orange 'sunscreen' pigments, allowing them to thrive in sunny environments. The discovery of a critical ABC transporter gene within the pigment gene cluster provides a potential hypothesis for toxicity avoidance in these organisms.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2023

Study finds association of genetic disease and infant mortality higher than previously recognized: 41% of infant deaths associated with genetic diseases

A study published in JAMA Network Open found that single-locus genetic diseases were the most common cause of infant mortality, accounting for 41% of deaths. The research suggests that diagnostic whole genome sequencing may have prevented some deaths and that treatments for these conditions are available for 30% of cases.

SourceRady Children's Institute for Genomic Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 9, 2023

THE LANCET: No new COVID-19 variants have emerged during China's recent outbreak, analysis of cases in Beijing suggests

An analysis of cases in Beijing found that two existing Omicron sub-variants, BA.5.2 and BF.7, accounted for more than 90% of local infections between November 14 and December 20, 2022. The study suggests these variants are chiefly responsible for the current surge in Beijing, likely China as a whole.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 8, 2023

Researchers decode 95.6% of the genome of Nicotiana benthamiana

A research group at Nagoya University has sequenced 95.6% of the Nicotiana benthamiana genome using next-generation sequencing technology. The findings provide insight into the plant's ability to perform grafting, a rare phenomenon in plants.

SourceNagoya University·JournalPlant and Cell Physiology·DateFeb 8, 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.

New evolutionary insights from stepping outside the lab

Researchers used unconventional methods to study fruit fly phenotypes, finding that loss of epigenetic mark led to changes in behavior, gene expression, metabolism, and offspring production. This knowledge can aid in predicting ecological patterns of change in wild animal populations.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2023

Have model organisms evolved too far?

A new study found that E. coli K-12 has accumulated numerous genetic changes compared to its original isolated bacteria, making it less suitable as a model organism. This discovery highlights the rapid evolution of bacterial genomes and challenges the long-standing use of a single strain in research.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalMicrobial Genomics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2023
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.

UMD-led team deciphers comprehensive black-legged tick genome

A University of Maryland-led team deciphered the first comprehensive genome for a parasite responsible for transmitting Lyme disease and other serious infections. The researchers identified thousands of novel genes and new protein functions, including proteins associated with tick immunity and disease transmission.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2023