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Wild tomato genome will benefit domesticated cousins

A reference genome for the wild relative of cultivated tomatoes has been developed to improve crop yields and disease resistance. Researchers have also created online tools to facilitate gene discovery and analysis.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalThe Plant Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 24, 2022

The secret lives of mites in the skin of our faces

Researchers analyzed DNA of Demodex folliculorum mites living in human hair follicles, finding unusual body features and behaviors due to their isolated existence. The study suggests these mites may transition from external parasites to internal symbionts as they shed unnecessary genes and cells.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateJun 21, 2022
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.

Origins of the Black Death identified

Ancient DNA analysis reveals that an epidemic devastated a local community in Kyrgyzstan in 1338 and 1339, linked to the Black Death. The study suggests that the Black Death's ancestor originated in Central Asia, close to Lake Issyk Kul.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalNature·DateJun 15, 2022

New alga species named for poet Amanda Gorman

Researchers at Cornell University named a new green alga species after poet Amanda Gorman, who inspired them during a challenging year. The discovery was made by accident while studying hornwort plants and contains unique DNA from fungi and bacteria.

SourceCornell University·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateJun 14, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Unravelling the diversity of the wild house mouse

Scientists have analyzed whole genome sequences of 98 wild house mice from across Europe and Asia, revealing a greater genetic diversity than previously thought. The study confirms three primary subspecies and infers the population history, with strong evidence for interbreeding between subspecies in East, Southeast, and South Asia.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 13, 2022

Fernandina Island Galapagos giant tortoise is not extinct

A Galapagos giant tortoise species previously believed to be extinct has been confirmed to still exist, thanks to genetic research that sequenced the genome of a single specimen and compared it with living individuals. The study's findings offer hope for the recovery of this species.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 9, 2022

New species of alga named for poet Amanda Gorman

A group of researchers discovered a new species of green algae, Gormaniella terricola, in Central New York State. The alga's unique chloroplast genome was found to contain DNA from fungi and bacteria, highlighting the importance of horizontal transfer.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 9, 2022
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.

‘Fantastic giant tortoise,’ believed extinct, confirmed alive in the Galápagos

A giant tortoise from the Fernandina Island species, believed extinct for over a century, has been confirmed alive through genetic sequencing. The discovery opens up new questions about its evolutionary relationship to other Galápagos tortoises and provides hope for conservation efforts.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 9, 2022

Chromatin originated in ancient microbes one to two billion years ago

Researchers at the Center for Genomic Regulation (CRG) found that chromatin, a genetic architecture that protects DNA and regulates gene expression, originated in ancient microbes between 1-2 billion years ago. This eukaryotic innovation has been essential for life since its emergence.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeNews article·DateJun 9, 2022

New genomic tools shed light on the evolutionary history of chimpanzees and contribute to their conservation

An international research team has created the largest and most detailed genomic diversity atlas of wild chimpanzees, revealing their evolutionary history and genetic diversity. The study sheds light on demographic past, genetic differentiation, and exchanges between subspecies, providing valuable insights for conservation.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalCell Genomics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 1, 2022

Researchers identify ancient bird behind giant eggs from Down Under

A team of researchers has identified the ancient bird species behind giant prehistoric eggs in Australia, resolving a years-long debate. The study found that the eggs belonged to a unique duck-like line of megafauna known as the 'Demon Ducks of Doom', which was laid by the Genyornis newtoni bird.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 25, 2022
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.

Reference genomes provide first insights into genetic roots of mustelid physiological and behavioural diversity

A study comparing whole genomes of several mustelids, including the tayra and wolverine, identifies multiple sources of genomic variation contributing to species-specific traits. The research sheds light on how these adaptations evolved in response to different ecological challenges.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateMay 24, 2022

A family of termites has been traversing the world’s oceans for millions of years

Researchers mapped out the natural history of drywood termites, revealing oceanic voyages that accelerated their evolution and confirmed recent dispersals via humans. The study also challenged the common assumption of primitive lifestyles, highlighting the diversity and complexity of termite social behavior.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 23, 2022

Coeliac cereal – Research shows oats could be the answer

Researchers from Edith Cowan University, CSIRO, and WEHI have decoded the genome of oats, revealing why they may be a suitable alternative to wheat for those with coeliac disease. The study found that oats contain fewer gluten-like proteins, making them a potentially healthier option.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalNature·DateMay 18, 2022

The oat genome unlocks the unique health benefits of oats

The oat genome has been fully sequenced, revealing key genes responsible for its health-promoting properties, including beta-glucans that reduce cholesterol and alleviate metabolic diseases. This breakthrough enables targeted breeding for more nutritious and sustainable oats.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature·DateMay 18, 2022
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.

Understanding the genomic modifications in transgenic papaya

A new study has identified genomic modifications in the transgenic papaya 'SunUp', which was developed to resist the papaya ringspot virus. The researchers used advanced sequencing technologies to read long stretches of DNA and found that the insertion did not cause any change in gene expression.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalNature Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 2022

Probe of DNA repeats reveals genetic link to schizophrenia

Researchers found a genetic link between long repeated DNA sequences and schizophrenia. The study discovered rare tandem repeat expansions near genes associated with the disorder, contributing to dysfunction at synapses and disrupting gene function.

SourceThe Hospital for Sick Children·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMay 11, 2022

Gene that shapes mutation rate found in mice

Researchers identified a region of the mouse genome associated with higher mutation rates, which is linked to a specific gene called Mutyh. This finding supports the theory that genetic differences can affect mutation rates, and may also shed light on cancer susceptibility.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 11, 2022

Ancient DNA gives new insights into 'lost' Indigenous people of Uruguay

Whole genome sequences of ancient Uruguayan Indigenous people provide a genetic snapshot of populations before European military campaigns decimated them. The results support the theory of separate migrations into South America, contradicting the idea of a single Native American race across North and South America.

SourceEmory University·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 11, 2022

Hybrid strains make insidious parasite more dangerous

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have mapped the formation of hybrid strains in Trypanosoma cruzi, a parasite causing chronic infection and severe symptoms. These hybrids are more effective at evading the immune system and causing disease, but understanding their formation can help develop new diagnostic and treatment methods.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournaleLife·DateMay 10, 2022
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.

Genetic options ensure rust resistance is toast

Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST) have identified a stem rust resistance gene in Aegilops sharonensis and transferred it to common wheat. The new transgenic wheat lines show high levels of resistance to the stem rust pathogen, providing hope for mitigating the devastating effects of climate change.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022

Squid and octopus genome studies reveal how cephalopods’ unique traits evolved

Researchers studied the genomes of squid, octopus, and cuttlefish to understand how they developed complex behaviors and organs. The studies found that cephalopod genomes are highly rearranged, with novel gene families that contribute to their unique traits, such as large brains and camouflage capabilities.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 4, 2022
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Researchers discover new species of salamander from Gulf Coastal plains hotspot

A new species of dusky salamander has been discovered in the Gulf Coastal Plain of Mississippi and Alabama, increasing knowledge of the region's biodiversity. The species, Desmognathus pascagoula, is similar to another recently discovered species but has distinct morphological, genetic, and geographic characteristics.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalZootaxa·DateMay 3, 2022

How genome organization influences cell fate

A team of researchers at UC Riverside has discovered that a protein complex called CAF-1 controls genome organization to maintain lineage fidelity in blood stem cells. The study found that CAF-1 keeps specific genomic sites compacted and inaccessible to transcription factors, ensuring the expression of lineage-specific genes.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 29, 2022
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.

Genetic changes differed, increased in people with Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers found that somatic mutations accumulated at a faster rate in Alzheimer's disease patients' brain cells, leading to DNA damage and dysfunction. This discovery provides a window into the molecular events of AD pathogenesis, potentially leading to novel treatments targeting these pathways.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 20, 2022

Study suggests why most smokers don’t get lung cancer

A recent study led by scientists at Albert Einstein College of Medicine suggests that some smokers have robust mechanisms to limit mutations, protecting them from lung cancer. The findings could help identify those with an increased risk for the disease and warrant close monitoring.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·TypeCase study·DateApr 11, 2022

Researchers discover new neurodevelopmental disorder

Australian researchers have discovered a new neurodevelopmental disorder linked to the tumor suppressor gene FBXW7. The condition causes mild to severe developmental delay, intellectual disability, and other symptoms, with genetic variations in this gene found in 28 individuals from 32 families worldwide.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 7, 2022
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.

New resource could provide clues on the past, present, and future of clownfish

Researchers have assembled a comprehensive genome of the false clownfish, providing insights into its ecological behavior, evolutionary history and adaptability. The genome comparison with its orange-clownfish cousin reveals unique genes related to neurobiology, affecting their behavior and ecology.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalG3 Genes Genomes Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 7, 2022

Genetic 'hotspots' that speed up and slow down brain aging could provide new targets for Alzheimer's drugs

Researchers have discovered 15 genomic loci that either accelerate or decelerate brain aging, offering potential new drug targets to combat Alzheimer's disease and other degenerative brain disorders. The study, led by USC researchers, found overlap with genes involved in depression, schizophrenia, and cognitive functioning.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 5, 2022

First complete, gapless sequence of a human genome reveals hidden regions

The new T2T reference genome adds nearly 200 million base pairs of novel DNA sequences, including 99 genes likely to code for proteins. This completes the first truly complete sequence of a human genome, covering each chromosome from end to end with no gaps and unprecedented accuracy.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalScience·DateMar 31, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Disease severity linked to N protein of SARS-CoV-2

A multicenter study found mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 N protein associated with increased viral loads and severe disease symptoms. The changes enabled the virus to hijack host cell translation machinery, leading to a life-threatening cytokine storm.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateMar 27, 2022
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.

Rapid adaptation in fruit flies

Researchers found that fruit flies underwent widespread physical and genomic adaptation within weeks, with changes documented in 60% of their genome. The study's findings suggest a new paradigm for understanding the timescale of evolution, highlighting rapid and dynamic adaptation to environmental conditions.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 17, 2022

The next frontier for African genomics - safeguarding African biodiversity

The African BioGenome Project aims to sequence the genomes of Africa's endemic plants, animals, fungi, and protists. This will build resilience in breeding, sustainable food systems, and biodiversity conservation, aligning with the post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

SourceUniversity of South Africa - Cape Town Campus·JournalNature·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 15, 2022

COVID-19 variants can’t hide from Variabel

Researchers at Rice University developed a new program called Variabel to accurately identify 'low-frequency' variants of the virus that causes COVID-19. By distinguishing true variants from sequencing errors, Variabel enables rapid characterization of within-host variation, which could aid in discovering future mutations.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 14, 2022

How new bird species arise

A study reveals that new bird species arise in lowland habitats before moving higher into mountainous areas, where genetic differences accumulate. The research suggests that climate fluctuations, particularly during the Pleistocene era, contributed to the evolution of these high-altitude populations.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 10, 2022
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.

Single test for over 50 genetic diseases will cut diagnosis from decades to days

A new DNA test has been developed to identify a range of hard-to-diagnose neurological and neuromuscular genetic diseases quicker and more accurately than existing tests. The test uses Nanopore sequencing technology to scan for abnormally long repeats within patients' genes, which are the hallmarks of disease.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateMar 4, 2022

New tool reveals function of enigmatic gene sequences

Scientists at Karolinska Institutet have developed a new high-precision tool to identify the function of noncoding DNA sequences, which may eventually contribute to the development of targeted drugs. The study reveals that these noncoding parts of patients' DNA are linked to genetic changes in diseases.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 3, 2022

Study identifies virus responsible for high mortality rate among pigeons in São Paulo City

A study found that a subtype of Newcastle disease virus caused the deaths of dozens of pigeons in São Paulo City. The researchers sequenced the viral genome and identified tissue wounds to determine the cause of death, revealing subgenotype VI.2.1.2 as the responsible pathogen. The risk to humans and poultry is considered low.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalViruses·DateMar 2, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

COVID in a cat

A study by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania found that a domestic cat was infected with the SARS-CoV-2 delta variant, but without significant genetic changes. This discovery highlights the virus's ability to infect a wide range of hosts and raises questions about its evolution in different species.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalViruses·TypeCase study·DateMar 1, 2022
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.

Sequencing puts carnivore chromosomes in context

Researchers used Hi-C sequencing to identify three-dimensional chromosome structures in 11 carnivore species, showing conserved chromatin structures across families despite millions of years of evolution. This approach could facilitate identifying related genes and placing them in context.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022

Rare bacterial strain isolated and sequenced at Tokyo University of Science

A new bacterial strain, Noda2021, belonging to Candidatus phylum Dependentiae has been isolated and sequenced, revealing its genetic material and potential ecological significance. This discovery sheds light on the diversity of microorganisms in Japan's microbiological hotspots.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalMicrobiology Resource Announcements·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2022
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.

When a protective gene buffers a bad one, a heart can beat

Scientists found a protective gene that counters a deleterious mutation causing atrial septal defects, allowing some people with the mutation to thrive. The discovery provides valuable clinical information for families affected by congenital heart disease.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateFeb 15, 2022