A study published by the European Society of Human Genetics found that genetic testing can identify the cause of childhood epilepsy in half of those studied, allowing for tailored treatments. This breakthrough discovery has the potential to improve treatment possibilities and avoid unnecessary procedures.
A recent study from University of Cambridge and Addenbrooke's Hospital found that most patients infected with COVID-19 in hospitals contracted it from other patients rather than healthcare workers. The research highlights the importance of regular screening for asymptomatic patients and proper use of face masks.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·TypeObservational study·DateAug 24, 2021
A reservoir of genes allowing sorghum to adapt to environmental stresses has been identified from 13 contrasting genomes. This genetic diversity is valuable for breeders, enabling them to improve crop yield and resilience. The analysis, led by the University of Queensland, provides unprecedented insights into the genome's dynamic nature.
SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Plants·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 24, 2021
Research at Washington University in St. Louis reveals that white clover's chemical defense against insect pests comes from both of its parental species, not just one as previously thought. The plant's ecological success can be attributed to this cyanogenesis process.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNew Phytologist·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Researchers completed the first genetic sequencing of a Brazilian snake's genome, revealing that most toxin genes likely arose from existing functions in ancestral species. The study identified markers for comparing toxin genes with non-toxic 'ancestral' genes, shedding light on the evolution of venom production.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 16, 2021
Researchers found Philippine Negrito ethnic group, Ayta Magbukon, possess the highest level of Denisovan ancestry in the world. Their Denisovan DNA is up to 46% greater than that of Australians and Papuans.
SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 12, 2021
A new collection of corn genomes provides a detailed understanding of the genetic diversity and adaptability of corn plants. Researchers have mapped the first corn genome in 2009 and filled in gaps since, revealing how the corn genome was shuffled over time.
SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalScience·DateAug 5, 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.
A new study published in Cell Reports Medicine reveals the origins of a 2012 Bundibugyo virus disease outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The analysis, conducted by an international team, used high-throughput sequencing to identify multiple virus 'spillover' events that contributed to the outbreak. This research highlights th...
SourceUS Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateAug 2, 2021
Researchers developed a machine learning tool, BoostDM, that evaluates the potential contribution of mutations in genes to cancer development. The tool helps understand how tumors are caused at the molecular level and can facilitate medical decisions regarding therapy.
SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 28, 2021
The NIH is awarding $80 million to the Mendelian Genomics Research Consortium to develop new methods and approaches for identifying genetic causes of single-gene diseases. The consortium aims to significantly increase the number of Mendelian disorders with known genetic causes.
SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·DateJul 15, 2021
An international team has developed a method to analyze ancient DNA in museum specimens, allowing for their placement on the evolutionary timeline. The technique enabled researchers to trace the evolutionary history of several species over tens of millions of years.
SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateJul 13, 2021
Researchers identified genetic markers to control fatty acid content in sunflower oil, a key source of vegetable fats. The study used genomic selection to create new crop varieties with tailored properties suitable for different uses.
SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalBMC Genomics·DateJul 12, 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.
A Belgian case report documents a 90-year-old woman's simultaneous infection with two different SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern: B.1.1.7 (UK) and B.1.351 (South Africa). The patient developed rapidly worsening respiratory symptoms, leading to death. This is one of the first documented cases of co-infection with VOCs.
SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateJul 10, 2021
A new study evaluated eight miRNA applications to simplify the process of discovery and characterization. Two programs, sRNAbench and miRExpress, stood out for their high sensitivity and low run times, making them suitable for use in plants with varying genome sizes.
SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateJun 30, 2021
Researchers at UIC are expanding testing for vulnerable communities, performing genomic sequencing on samples to identify emerging SARS-CoV-2 strains. This helps gather info on variant dynamics and human immune responses, aiding public health surveillance.
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.
Researchers study rare warbler hybrid with mismatched color patterns to disentangle genetic drivers of traits usually inherited together. The team identifies new location in genome linked to black face mask and confirms previously identified region for black throat patch.
RAMBO, a new method, cuts indexing times for large DNA databases from weeks to hours and search times from hours to seconds. The researchers used a data structure that has a significantly faster query time than state-of-the-art genome indexing methods.
A new UC Davis study confirms that SARS-CoV-2 contamination on hospital surfaces is unlikely to be infectious. The research used genome sequencing to detect the virus on surfaces and found that only a small percentage of samples were positive, suggesting that improved cleaning protocols may have reduced transmission.
SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 25, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
Researchers have sequenced the nuclear genome of the koala lemur, a giant primate that went extinct in Madagascar around 500-2,000 years ago. The findings reveal new insights into its position on the primate family tree and how it interacted with its environment, which could help understand past lemur extinctions.
SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 24, 2021
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a cost-effective method for detecting new coronavirus variants. The COVseq technology uses multiplex PCR and pooling to sequence thousands of viral genomes per week, making it an affordable solution for global surveillance.
SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 23, 2021
A decade of ancient genome analysis has shown that early humans were resilient and capable, exploring new environments with no prior knowledge. This discovery challenges previous theories on human behavior and highlights the importance of genomic evidence in understanding our history.
SourceSt. John's College, University of Cambridge·JournalNature·DateJun 16, 2021
Scientists assembled a high-quality genome of a European olive species, identifying genes involved in oleuropein biosynthesis. The study revealed 202 genes related to oleuropein, twice as many as previously known, and found olives genetically closest to the oleaster plant.
SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·DateJun 16, 2021
A new study reveals that wastewater sequencing can detect emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants like B.1.1.7 up to 8 weeks before they become prevalent in clinical cases. This early warning system provides a more accurate picture of virus circulation among humans, including asymptomatic individuals.
SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmSystems·DateJun 15, 2021
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.
A new study suggests that excluding individuals with harmful mutations and selecting those from multiple source populations can improve the success of translocation programs for threatened species. Computer simulations show that this approach can minimize inbreeding depression and ensure population survival.
Researchers from University of British Columbia and Strategic Salmon Health Initiative found Piscine orthoreovirus (PRV) originating from Atlantic salmon farms spreading to wild Pacific salmon through open-net farming. The study suggests a link between PRV transmission and increased disease severity in Chinook salmon.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 26, 2021
The conference aims to share experience in developing and applying bioinformatics algorithms, with topics including sequencing technologies, molecular sequence analysis, and genome assembly. Selected abstracts will be published as part of the BiATA 2021 BMC Bioinformatics supplement.
The Alvis tool helps bioinformaticians analyze DNA sequence data and reference genome databases for more accurate assembly results. It detects chimeric sequences, which can affect data accuracy, and produces efficient vector images for human interpretation.
SourceEarlham Institute·JournalBMC Bioinformatics·DateMay 18, 2021
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.
A new technology has made it possible to quickly sequence the entire genome of plant pathogens, enabling faster diagnosis and identification of emerging pathogens. This breakthrough has great implications for the plant pathology field, allowing for more accurate identification of difficult-to-diagnose pathogens.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Health Progress·DateMay 14, 2021
A team of scientists from China has sequenced the genome of Lavandula angustifolia to understand the genetics behind its distinctive fragrance. The study revealed that gene duplications and terpenoid diversification led to the evolution of unique compounds, with potential applications in stress relief, skin conditioning, and pollination.
SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·DateMay 14, 2021
A new study of the California condor genome found a surprising amount of genetic diversity, indicating that the species was once more abundant. The researchers believe this diversity will aid in future conservation efforts and potentially mitigate the effects of previous inbreeding.
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.
The Yap hadal snailfish genome contains extra genes that help stabilize proteins and DNA under high pressures, enabling it to survive in the deepest parts of the ocean. The fish has lost genes involved in vision, taste, and smell, which are likely unnecessary in its dark environment.
Michigan State University scientists are breeding heat-resistant tepary beans to address global food security concerns. By leveraging the genetics of the tepary bean, researchers aim to create beans that can thrive in challenging climates and provide essential nutrients for vulnerable populations.
SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 12, 2021
Researchers developed UShER to quickly analyze coronavirus genome sequences and track their relationships with other variants. The tool updates a comprehensive phylogenetic tree in real-time, enabling scientists to monitor emerging strains and transmission dynamics.
SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 10, 2021
Scientists have successfully identified the complete avenacin biosynthetic pathway in oats, which provides resistance to soil-borne diseases like take-all. This discovery has implications for creating disease-resistant lines of wheat using modern technologies.
SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 7, 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.
Researchers discovered a new species of bacteria, Sphingobacterium phlebotomi, in sand fly rearing substrates that attracts pregnant females, offering a potential tool for reducing sand fly populations and preventing diseases like Leishmaniasis. The bacterium's volatile chemicals can be used to create ecologically safe baits or traps.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SYSTEMATIC AND EVOLUTIONARY MICROBIOLOGY·DateMay 6, 2021
Researchers identified a new genetic mutation causing progressive muscle damage, shedding light on the function of over 4,000 genes associated with hereditary diseases. The study's findings provide crucial insights into the development of muscle cells and their ability to recover.
SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMay 5, 2021
Researchers successfully germinated seven ancient Judean date palm seeds from archaeological sites, gaining genetic insights into the evolution of crops. The study suggests that hybridization between date palms and wild Cretan palms occurred over 2,200 years ago, influencing agricultural practices.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 3, 2021
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.
Researchers at NYU Abu Dhabi have successfully sequenced the genome of previously extinct date palm varieties that lived over 2,000 years ago. The study reveals how these plants evolved over time, including increasing levels of genes from another species due to hybridization.
SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 3, 2021
Researchers created Retron Library Recombineering (RLR) to generate up to millions of mutations simultaneously and screen mutant cells efficiently. RLR eliminates the toxicity observed with CRISPR and improves genome-level exploration of mutations.
SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 30, 2021
Researchers found that house mice on the east and west coasts developed similar traits, such as larger bodies and bigger nests, to cope with the cold. These genetic changes suggest distinct regional features like rainfall and soil color may have driven parallel evolution along the latitudinal gradient.
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.
Researchers developed a chip that rapidly and accurately sequences viral genomes for COVID-19 diagnosis, eliminating false positives and negatives. This technology enables faster tracing of COVID-19 cases and prevents future pandemics.
SourceUniversity of New Mexico·JournalLangmuir·DateApr 29, 2021
Scientists have assembled high-quality reference genomes for 16 endangered species, including the kakapo and vaquita, revealing that even small populations can survive if humans do not kill off remaining animals. The 'kitchen sink approach' combined multiple biotech tools to produce error-free genome assemblies.
Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new technique to analyze the genomes of archaic humans, revealing key differences in gene expression that may lead to physical traits. The study found associations with the vocal tract and cerebellum, suggesting rapid evolution of these organs in modern humans.
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.
Researchers sequenced genomes from 21 specimens to investigate the genetic health of Sumatran rhinoceros. Low inbreeding levels and high genetic diversity were found in present-day populations, but potentially harmful mutations were detected, posing a risk to the species' survival.
SourceStockholm University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 26, 2021
A new study reveals that sifakas, a genus of lemurs found only in Madagascar's forests, have taste preferences and digestive adaptations that allow them to thrive on tough leaves, fruit, and even pine needles. This dietary flexibility may give them an advantage over their strictly leaf-eating or fruit-only cousins.
SourceDuke University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 23, 2021
Researchers found that prime editors have extremely low off-target effects in plant cells, with editing rates of 0.00%~0.23%. The study suggests designing pegRNAs to minimize off-target sites and eliminates concerns about nonspecific effects from M-MLV RT.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateApr 15, 2021
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.
A global consortium led by CSU scientists is sequencing complete genomes of 10 intractable weed species to advance humanity's approach to weeds and crops. The project aims to develop genomic tools for improved management and reduce the use of unsustainable practices like soil tillage.
A new study found that all six currently identified SARS-CoV-2 variants are widely spread across the Houston metropolitan area. Genome sequencing data showed geographically widespread dissemination of variants, with successful patient-to-patient transmission among communities.
SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateApr 14, 2021
Researchers have developed a new search engine, DIAMOND, that enables fast and accurate comparison of protein sequences across species. With an 80- to 360-fold computational speedup compared to BLAST, DIAMOND is poised to revolutionize comparative genomics research and enable the analysis of millions of eukaryotic genomes.
SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Methods·DateApr 10, 2021
Researchers from Uppsala University discovered a new species of bumblebee, Bombus incognitus, through genetic analysis of Rocky Mountains samples. The study reveals potential for speciation in arctic and alpine environments due to climate change.
SourceUppsala University·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateApr 7, 2021
The first complete genome for the bacteria that causes bacterial spot disease in pumpkins has been assembled, providing valuable resources to understand its spread, host specificity, and potential resistance to chemical controls. The study identified key genes involved in infection and compared them with other Xanthomonas species.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalPhytopathology·DateMar 24, 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.
Rye's complex genome has been fully sequenced, revealing a diverse wild gene pool that holds promise for breeding. The research team hopes to transfer beneficial traits from rye to wheat without affecting baking properties.
SourceLeibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 18, 2021
The University of Maryland has co-published the first full reference genome sequence for rye in Nature Genetics. This valuable resource will help improve grain yield, disease resistance, and temperature tolerance to increase climate resilience in grain crops.
SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 18, 2021
A new method of DNA sequencing using PacBio HiFi sequencing has been successfully applied to assemble the genome of barley with high accuracy and speed. The approach yielded better quality genome sequences compared to other methods, including more complete genes and accurate reassembly of non-coding regions.
SourceLeibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateMar 17, 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.
A study from Karolinska Institutet in Sweden analyzed the results of whole genome sequencing for over 3,200 patients with rare diseases, resulting in molecular diagnoses for 1,287 patients. The researchers found pathogenic mutations in over 750 genes and discovered 17 novel disease genes.
SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalGenome Medicine·DateMar 16, 2021
Researchers at the University of Queensland have created a highly detailed genome model for critically endangered Macadamia jansenii, a plant species that is rare in the wild. The model has been used to study the genetics and diversity of the species, providing valuable insights into how rare plant species survive population decline.
SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalGigaScience·DateMar 7, 2021
Researchers identify nearly 108,000 previously undetected structural variants and 278 SV hotspots in diverse human populations. The findings provide fundamental insights into the structure and variation of the human genome.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 25, 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.
Researchers have developed a new method, Cre-Controlled CRISPR, which combines the benefits of the Cre/lox system and CRISPR/Cas9 genetic scissors for conditional gene inactivation. This approach allows for faster and easier gene editing with reduced labor needed to flank genes with lox sequences.
SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 2021
A recent study has shed new light on the evolutionary history and genomic variation of tigers, revealing population bottlenecks and recent divergence between subspecies. The research highlights the importance of local adaptation and genetic rescue efforts in tiger conservation.
SourceNational Centre for Biological Sciences·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateFeb 18, 2021
A new study reveals that European Starlings in North America underwent rapid local adaptation, adjusting to temperature and rainfall variations through subtle genetic changes. The species' massive population size enabled the spread of beneficial gene variants across generations.
SourceCornell University·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateFeb 9, 2021