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Many human genomes shaped by past events that caused sharp dips in the population

A new study reveals that over half of human populations worldwide have experienced sharp dips in population size due to founder events, associated with geographic isolation, hunter-gatherer lifestyle, or cultural practices. This analysis technique, ASCEND, will help identify groups at high risk of genetic diseases.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·TypeObservational study·DateJun 23, 2022
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.

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

Kelp connecting Southern coasts – genomics reveals

A University of Otago-led study used genomic analysis to track the origins of kelp found on southeastern New Zealand beaches, revealing connections to South Georgia and Marion Island. Kelp rafts carry a variety of organisms across vast distances, influencing ecosystem dynamics.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 8, 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.

Height may be risk factor for multiple health conditions

A recent genetic study found a link between height and lower risk of coronary heart disease, as well as higher risk for peripheral neuropathy and circulatory disorders. Being tall appears to protect against cardiovascular problems, but may increase the risk of non-cardiovascular conditions.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalPLOS Genetics·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 2, 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.

Scientists announce comprehensive regional diagnostic of microbial ocean life using DNA testing

Researchers developed a comprehensive regional diagnostic method using DNA testing, allowing for precise identification of microorganisms and estimation of their abundance. The technique has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of the ocean's food web and its role in removing greenhouse gases.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 4, 2022

Repeats are key to understanding humanity's genome

Researchers fill in gaps in Human Reference Genome, discovering repetitive sections are a major source of human variation and genetic diversity. The Telomere-2-Telomere project reveals complex architectural features with significant consequences for understanding human evolution and biological function.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 31, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

First complete human genome poised to strengthen genetic analysis, NIST study shows

The T2T consortium's completed human genome has shown significant improvements in DNA sequencing accuracy, correcting tens of thousands of errors and revealing millions of genetic variations. This new reference genome can support the analysis of over 200 genes of medical relevance, potentially propelling research into genetic disorders.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalScience·DateMar 31, 2022

Genomic analysis supports ancient Muwekma Ohlone connection

A new genetic study supports the Muwekma Ohlone tribe's assertion that they have lived in the area for over 2,500 years. The research found a thread of continuity between ancient genomes and modern-day Muwekma Ohlone people, affirming their ancestral connection to the San Francisco Bay Area.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 21, 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.

Sex pays off

Research shows that asexual reproduction in stick insects, such as parthenogenesis, reduces genetic variability and slows down adaptation to environmental changes. This negatively impacts the speed of adaptation and genetic diversity in these insects.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 24, 2022

Genome of extinct Steller’s sea cow reveals surprising link to human skin disease

The genome of Steller's sea cow reveals genes that may have played a role in its adaptation to cold marine environments, similar to those found in humans with the skin disease ichthyosis. The study also found similarities between Steller's sea cows and cetaceans in certain genes involved in energy metabolism.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 9, 2022

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

Reconstructing the chromosomes of the earliest animals on Earth

A recent study found that many marine invertebrates, including sponges and jellyfish, retain the same chromosomal structure as their primitive ancestors over 600 million years ago. This discovery underscores the conservatism of evolution and provides a key link between humans and our distant ancestors.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 8, 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.

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

Genomics study helps guide Shigella vaccine development

A new genomics study has helped guide the development of vaccines against Shigella, a leading cause of severe diarrhoea in children. The research revealed the extent of genomic diversity among Shigella species, highlighting challenges to current vaccine approaches.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2022

Genetic clues link lipoprotein A to prostate cancer risk

A new analysis links genetic variants associated with high blood levels of lipoprotein A to a higher risk of prostate cancer, including advanced or early-age-onset cases. The study found no significant associations for other blood lipids.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 27, 2022
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.

New cloud-based platform opens genomics data to all

A new cloud-based platform called AnVIL grants easy access to one of the world's largest genomics databases, providing thousands of analysis tools and over 300,000 genomes. Researchers can now collaborate effortlessly, without the need for massive data downloads, and make exciting new discoveries

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalCell Genomics·DateJan 12, 2022

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

Plants as cold specialists from the Ice Age

A team of evolutionary biologists and botanists found that the spoonweed genus, which emerged as a cold specialist during the Ice Age, repeatedly adapted to rapidly alternating cold and warm periods. The researchers identified physiological adaptations to drought and salt stress that helped the plants develop high tolerance to cold.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournaleLife·DateDec 21, 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.

MDI Biological Laboratory awarded grant to advance cloud computing in Maine

The MDI Biological Laboratory has been awarded a grant to promote cloud computing among researchers in Maine, aiming to level the playing field by providing access to sophisticated computing resources. The program will provide training on Google Cloud Platform and assist institutions in implementing cloud computing services.

SourceMDI Biological Laboratory·DateDec 15, 2021

A faster “code breaker” to analyze human DNA

Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a free online resource that speeds up data analysis of human genomes three times faster than current methods. This enables scientists to see how an individual's genome makes them susceptible to different diseases in different ways, ultimately reducing associated costs and increas...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateDec 8, 2021

Using genomics to match treatments improved outcomes for certain patients with metastatic breast cancer

The study used multigene sequencing to identify genomic alterations in patients with metastatic breast cancer. Patients with genomic alterations ranked as ESCAT I/II saw improved progression-free survival with targeted therapies matched to their genomic changes, while those without these alterations did not benefit from the treatment.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateDec 7, 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

Scientists may need to rethink how genomics impacts risk for OCD

A new study led by scientists at Mount Sinai highlights the role of rare genomic differences in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) risk. The research found that about 10% of the risk for OCD is attributed to rare genomic variations, which were not seen in previous studies.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 18, 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.

The genomes of Mexico's native peoples reveal evolutionary adaptations and challenges to global change

Researchers analyzed the genome of 300 individuals from 15 Mexican ethnic groups to understand their evolutionary histories and adaptability to global changes. The study found that Native Mexican peoples have biological characteristics influenced by their complex history, including susceptibility to certain diseases.

SourceUniversità di Bologna·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateNov 3, 2021
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.

Artificial intelligence-based technology quickly identifies genetic causes of serious disease

A new AI-powered algorithm, GEM, has been developed to quickly identify genetic causes of serious disease in newborns. The technology leverages machine learning and natural language processing to analyze vast amounts of genomic data and clinical records, achieving an accuracy rate of 92% compared to existing tools.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalGenomic Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 13, 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.

New cause of inherited heart condition discovered

A UCL-led research team has discovered a new gene causing hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, an inherited heart condition. The study found that variants in the ALPK3 gene are responsible for 1-2% of adults with the condition, affecting approximately 1,250-2,500 people in the UK.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·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
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.

Some animal species can survive successfully without sexual reproduction

Scientists prove Meselson effect in ancient asexual species, showing survival without sexual reproduction is possible. The study of beetle mite Oppiella nova reveals genetic variance and adaptation through independent genome evolution.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 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

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
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

New resource to advance genomics-driven precision medicine

Researchers have uncovered thousands of new regulatory regions that control disease-linked genes, providing a significant step forward for genomics-driven precision medicine. This new resource, available worldwide, could help identify markers revealing which patients will benefit most from specific treatments.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalNature Genetics·TypeObservational study·DateSep 2, 2021

Geneticists map the rhinoceros family tree

Researchers have helped fill gaps in the rhino evolutionary family tree by analyzing genomes of living and extinct species, finding that African and Eurasian lineages separated 16 million years ago and that low genetic diversity is a natural state for rhinoceroses, not a consequence of recent population declines

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·TypeObservational study·DateAug 24, 2021

Pusan National University researchers shed light on the early development of rice seeds

A team of scientists led by Assistant Professor Lae-Hyeon Cho identified a single mutation in the gene that codes for cytidine triphosphate synthase (CTPS), an enzyme crucial for early endosperm development. The study showed that overexpressing CTPS in genetically modified rice plants results in a larger endosperm, opening up opportuni...

SourcePusan National University·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 2021

New live analysis system for plant stomata, signals exciting progress in climate-change resistant crop development

Scientists have developed a new live analysis system for plant stomata, allowing for rapid and affordable identification of desirable traits. This innovation has the potential to accelerate crop development for climate-resistance, addressing future food shortages.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateAug 22, 2021
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.

Mystery of the seadragon solved

An international team found the genetic basis for the seadragon's lack of teeth, leaf-like appendages and sex-determination gene. The research also showed that males care for fertilized eggs until they hatch.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 18, 2021

Data scientists go to the mat to learn about microbial networks

Researchers at Rice University are developing novel computational approaches to track environmental microbiome dynamics over time, across species and after perturbations. The team will use biofilm-based 'species abundance networks' on scaffolds to observe how they form their own genome-exchange networks.

SourceRice University·DateAug 5, 2021

Researchers track how microbiome bacteria adapt to humans via transmission

A new study published in Genome Biology found that the ability of gut bacteria to produce spores is associated with their adaptation to humans. Bacteria that can produce spores have larger genomes and are less abundant in the gut, while those that cannot have smaller genomes and are more adapted to human hosts.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalGenome Biology·DateAug 4, 2021

New versatile genetic test for lymphoid neoplasms supports personalized management of patients and further research

Researchers have developed a new integrative genetic test, LYNX, that analyzes standard and novel molecular markers in common lymphoid neoplasms. The test provides accurate detection of mutations, identification of large genome-wide chromosomal aberrations, and assessment of immunoglobulin and T-cell receptor gene rearrangements.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 29, 2021
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Oncotarget: Subtypes of thymic epithelial tumors independent of WHO type

Researchers identified six novel molecular subtypes of thymic epithelial tumors that are independent of World Health Organization histologic type. The study used genomic information from The Cancer Genome Atlas dataset and the IU-TAB-1 cell line, and found no association between WHO histologic subtype and molecular subtypes.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateJul 21, 2021

Bats in Switzerland harbor diverse viruses, some potentially zoonotic

A study of 18 bat species in Switzerland revealed 39 different viral families, with 16 infecting vertebrates and potentially posing a risk to humans. A near-complete genome of an MERS-CoV-related virus was also identified, highlighting the need for continued monitoring of viruses carried by bats.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 16, 2021