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New study unlocks mystery origin of iconic Aussie snakes

A research team led by University of Adelaide found tangible evidence that Australian elapids arrived by sea rather than land. The study analyzed genomes of two Australian elapids and compared them to marine and semi-marine elapid sea snakes, finding similarities with marine life genes.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalGenes·DateFeb 9, 2022

New benchmark could improve detection of genetic variants linked to spinal muscular atrophy, other diseases

A new DNA benchmark, developed by NIST and collaborators, enables more accurate detection of genetic variants linked to diseases such as spinal muscular atrophy. The benchmark, based on HiFi sequencing technology, helps labs and clinics sequence genes with high accuracy, critical for disease diagnosis and treatment.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateFeb 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 “vertical map” of airborne microorganisms indicates how global warming will impact global ecosystems

A comprehensive 'vertical map' of airborne microorganisms has been created, showing that temperature is the single most important factor influencing their composition. As global temperatures rise, this could lead to significant changes in the air microbiome, affecting human health and food security.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 7, 2022

First U.S. peer-reviewed study on omicron patient outcomes reveals rapid spread and significant differences in infection behavior

The first US peer-reviewed study on omicron patient outcomes found significant differences in infection behavior. Ominron patients are significantly younger, have increased vaccine breakthrough rates, and are less likely to be hospitalized compared to patients with alpha or delta variants.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 3, 2022

Unravelling the ancient stories hidden in DNA

Scientists have discovered that the genomes of marine invertebrates have been surprisingly stable across deep time. The study found that chromosomes are remarkably similar among sponges, jellyfish, scallops, and even humans, with some genes traveling together for almost a billion years.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2022

Silencing tool quashes gene activity across generations

Scientists have developed a gene-silencing tool that can quash gene activity across generations using small noncoding RNA molecules. This technique, called piRNAi, has expanded the molecular toolkit for gene manipulations and allows for more detailed investigations in nematode worms.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Methods·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 3, 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.

Why COVID-19 surveillance in Nigeria is critical

A new Northwestern Medicine study found a probable variant of concern, eta, circulating in Nigeria in early 2021, but was grossly underreported globally. The study discovered that eta had characteristics of a variant of concern and outcompeted the alpha variant in West Africa.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 3, 2022

Roswell Biotechnologies demonstrates molecular electronics sensors on a semiconductor chip in peer-review paper

Roswell Biotechnologies has developed a molecular electronics sensor on a semiconductor chip, enabling real-time detection of single molecules for diverse applications including drug discovery, diagnostics, and DNA sequencing. The platform offers unlimited scalability in sensor pixel density and high resolution measurements.

SourceRoswell Biotechnologies·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 24, 2022

Sequencing the world’s biodiversity: “Earth BioGenome Project” enters new phase in cataloguing the DNA of 1.8 million species

The Earth BioGenome Project aims to generate reference genomes for all eukaryotic life, providing tools for preventing biodiversity loss and pathogen spread. With over 5,000 scientists involved, the project is entering a new phase with ambitious goals, including producing genomes for 9,400 taxonomic families.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 24, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Before horses, ass hybrids were bred for warfare

Ancient Mesopotamian societies produced equid hybrids called kungas by crossing domestic donkeys with wild asses, offering a unique combination of strength and control. These animal hybrids were used for warfare and travel before the arrival of domestic horses in the region.

SourceCNRS·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 14, 2022
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.

Genomic regions discovered that could help understand obesity

A new study has identified 74 previously unknown genomic regions that influence how people's bodies break down food into energy. These findings could help develop more personalized ways to maintain a healthy weight by taking into account an individual's genetic profile.

SourceNIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Guy’s and St Thomas’ and King’s College London·JournalMetabolites·TypeObservational study·DateJan 11, 2022

Tracking down the origin of cholera pandemics

Researchers have discovered a molecular mechanism that contributed to the emergence of the seventh cholera pandemic. The study found that modified Vibrio cholerae bacteria used their type 6 secretion system (T6SS) to outcompete and kill older strains, leading to their displacement.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 6, 2022

More to learn about Grapevine Pinot gris virus – new technology can help

Researchers used new technology to study Grapevine Pinot gris virus propagation in a specific vineyard in France. The study found that over 75% of tested plants became infected between 2014 and 2015, with only a marginal number of grapevines testing positive during the remaining five years.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytobiomes Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 5, 2022
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.

Lychee genome tells a colorful story about a colorful tropical fruit

Scientists have analyzed the lychee genome to uncover its ancient history and identify genetic markers for breeding programs. The study found that lychees were domesticated independently in two regions of China, Yunnan and Hainan, leading to early- and late-maturing varieties.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 3, 2022

COVID-19 infection detected in deer in 6 Ohio locations

Researchers have found COVID-19 infection in white-tailed deer in six northeast Ohio locations, suggesting the virus may be spreading among wildlife. The study's findings indicate that infected deer can potentially harbor new strains of SARS-CoV-2, complicating human mitigation and control plans.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature·DateDec 23, 2021

Study offers new insights into the timeline of mammal evolution

A new study provides a detailed timeline of mammal evolution, confirming that modern placental mammal groups postdate the K-Pg extinction. The researchers used a novel computational approach to analyse a large genomic dataset and answer a long-standing question about mammal origins.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature·DateDec 22, 2021
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.

Affordable genome sequencing for pathogen analysis to help tackle global epidemics

The study developed a new strategy to sequence thousands of bacterial isolates with collaborators from economically-challenged countries, aiming to make genomic data more accessible. The 10,000 Salmonella genomes research consortium sequenced and analysed 10,000 Salmonella genomes from Africa and Latin America, strengthening global res...

SourceEarlham Institute·JournalGenome Biology·DateDec 20, 2021

Science snapshots from Berkeley Lab

Researchers have created a new approach to edit genes within specific bacteria in a community using CRISPR-Cas9, enabling targeted genetic modifications. This technology could be used to track edited microbes and potentially treat diseases like digestive issues or create more resilient crops.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 2021

Coast redwood and sequoia genome sequences completed

The research provides a foundation to better understand redwood responses to climate impacts and pathogens. Hundreds of gene families unique to the coast redwood were found, many helping trees respond to stress and resist disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalG3 Genes Genomes Genetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 16, 2021

Big gaps in quest to sequence genomes of all animals

Despite making progress, genome sequencing of 1.66 million animal species remains incomplete, with vertebrates accounting for 54% of current sequences. Invertebrates, including insects and spiders, comprise only 34% despite representing 78.5% of all species.

SourceWashington State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeContent analysis·DateDec 6, 2021
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.

Where did western honey bees come from? New research finds the sweet spot

A new study led by York University reveals that Western Honey Bees originated in Western Asia, with genetic data suggesting a strong connection to this region. The research highlights the importance of understanding the origin and evolution of these vital pollinators to inform their management and conservation.

SourceYork University·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 3, 2021

Ancient lineage of algae found to include five “cryptic” species

A study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B reveals that a rare alga, Chlorokybus, contains at least five distinct species previously thought to be a single entity. Genetic analysis confirmed these findings, shedding new light on the biodiversity and evolutionary pathways of this key algal group.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2021

Same day test identifies secondary infections in COVID-19 patients

A rapid same-day test has been developed to identify secondary infections in COVID-19 patients on intensive care, allowing for targeted antibiotic treatment and reduced risk of antimicrobial resistance. The test uses nanopore sequencing technology to analyze bacterial and fungal pathogens present in patient samples.

SourceNIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Guy’s and St Thomas’ and King’s College London·JournalGenome Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 16, 2021

Study shines a light into “black holes” in the Arabidopsis genome

Researchers have sequenced the Arabidopsis genome at unprecedented detail, shedding light on centromere evolution and revealing genetic and epigenetic topography. The findings provide insights into the genomic equivalent of black holes, a region that has long been challenging to analyze.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalScience·DateNov 11, 2021
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.

Largest plant genome sequencing effort yields a pan-genome for chickpea

An international team sequenced 3,366 chickpea lines from 60 countries, identifying 29,870 genes, including 1,582 novel ones. The study provides a complete picture of genetic variation within chickpea and validated roadmap for improvement.

SourceInternational Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT)·JournalNature·DateNov 10, 2021
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.

Quillwort genome highlights divergences in aquatic CAM photosynthesis

Researchers have sequenced the quillwort genome, uncovering unique genetic mechanisms regulating CAM photosynthesis in these aquatic plants. The study found differences in phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase function between quillworts and terrestrial plants.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 3, 2021
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.

Scientists reveal genetic secrets of stress-tolerant mangrove trees

Mangroves have evolved a remarkable resistance to stress in harsh ocean environments. Researchers decoded the genome of Bruguiera gymnorhiza and found that it regulates genes to cope with stress, using adaptive epigenetic changes to survive.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNew Phytologist·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 25, 2021

Incidence estimation from SARS-CoV-2 genomes

Researchers developed a computational method to estimate new infection rates from genomic sequences, revealing decreased case detection in Europe during summer 2020 due to relaxed testing criteria. The study also highlights the effects of non-pharmaceutical interventions on COVID-19 spread.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 14, 2021

Catching malaria evolution in the act

Scientists have developed a technique to sequence individual malaria parasites' genomes, allowing for the detection of new mutations. These mutations are often targeting a gene family controlling transcription in malaria, suggesting potential avenues for developing more effective treatments and vaccines.

SourceTexas Biomedical Research Institute·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateOct 13, 2021
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.

Maryland scientists crack blue crab’s genetic code

The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science has sequenced the genome of the blue crab, revealing approximately 24,000 genes and a genome length that is one third of the human genome. This breakthrough will aid in fisheries policies, aquaculture, and potentially track food source origins.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·JournalG3 Genes Genomes Genetics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 4, 2021
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.

Study maps immune system genes involved in resistance to SARS-CoV-2

A study analyzed genetic material from 86 discordant couples infected by SARS-CoV-2 and found associations between certain genetic variants and efficient activation of natural killer cells. These cells play a crucial role in the innate immune response, destroying infected cells to prevent disease development.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateSep 28, 2021

Ancient humans traded dogs for their usefulness

Researchers found that ancient Siberian human populations interacted with outside dog populations at least 2,000 years ago, suggesting dogs were traded as goods. The study reveals that modern dog breeds like Samoyeds and Siberian Huskies maintain significant ancestry from a lineage established prior to 9,500 years ago.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeNews article·DateSep 24, 2021

Ancient DNA analysis sheds light on dark event in medieval Spain

A medieval Spanish individual, known as the 'Segorbe Giant,' has been analyzed using ancient DNA. The research found that he had a mix of North African and local Spanish ancestry, suggesting a complex history of migration and intermixing. This study sheds light on a dark event in medieval Spain's past.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalScientific Reports·TypeContent analysis·DateSep 23, 2021

Darwin’s short-beak enigma solved

A study by University of Utah biologists discovered a mutation in the ROR2 gene is linked to short beak length in domestic pigeons. This mutation also underlies the human disorder Robinow syndrome, which shares striking facial features with the pigeon phenotype.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2021
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.

New research provides useful genetic resource of farm-raised kuruma shrimp

Researchers at OIST and Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology have developed a genetic resource for the kuruma shrimp, a species prone to white spot disease. The genome sequence has identified genes related to disease resistance, which could be used to establish a disease-resistant line of shrimp.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalG3 Genes Genomes Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 13, 2021
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.

After 10,000 years of inbreeding, endangered flightless parrots from New Zealand are in surprisingly good genetic health

Despite 10,000 years of inbreeding, the kākāpō genome sequencing reveals that the species has lost potentially deleterious mutations and now carries fewer harmful mutations than extinct mainland populations. This finding suggests that natural selection may have facilitated genetic purging in small populations.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Genomics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 8, 2021

Exploring the genetic ma(i)ze: Functional genomics can help molecular breeding of maize

Researchers used functional genomics to identify key genes involved in inducing callus from immature maize embryos, overcoming a major roadblock in plant breeding. The study found that nearly 30% of predicted A188 genes were structurally different from other maize lines, accounting for high protein divergence and phenotypic variations.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalThe Crop Journal·TypeObservational study·DateSep 8, 2021

Study finds critical data needed for monitoring and preserving biodiversity is missing

The world's largest repository of raw genomic sequences is missing critical data necessary for monitoring and preserving biodiversity. Only 14% of archived datasets contain information about when and where organisms were sampled, highlighting the need for community standards to preserve metadata.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeContent analysis·DateSep 8, 2021
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.

Highly dynamic sex chromosomes in cichlid fishes

Research reveals cichlids exhibit highly dynamic sex chromosomes, transitioning between XY and ZW systems. Genome analysis identified over 70 species with distinct sex-determining genes.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 2, 2021

Researchers sequence genome of drug-resistant Salmonella enteritidis strain that can sicken poultry

A virulent Salmonella Enteritidis strain has been sequenced from two consecutive poultry flocks in North Carolina State University. The strain, SE_TAU19, exhibits seven antimicrobial resistance genes and 120 virulence genes, posing a threat to human health. Genome sequencing provides valuable data for tracing outbreaks and preventing f...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalFrontiers in Veterinary Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 2021

Indian wolf among world’s most endangered and distinct wolves

Scientists have sequenced the Indian wolf genome, revealing it to be one of the world's most endangered and evolutionarily distinct populations. The study suggests that Indian wolves may represent the most ancient surviving lineage of wolves.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalMolecular Ecology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 2, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Reference genome of Aristolochia fimbriata provides new insights into flowering plant evolution

The study provides a high-quality genome sequence of Aristolochia fimbriata, shedding light on angiosperm evolution, floral development, and chemical biosynthesis. The researchers identified two overlooked whole-genome duplications in Piperales and clarified the time of previously reported WGDs in Magnoliales and Laurales.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 2021

Bowfin genome reveals old dogfish can teach researchers new tricks

Researchers sequenced the bowfin genome to investigate its unique combination of ancestral and advanced features. The study found unexpected insights into diverse aspects of bowfin biology, including the absence of key genes in its pectoral fin.

SourceHarvard University, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 30, 2021