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Jason Ferrante , Ph.D. (Former Employee)

Science and Products

deer with CWD

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) Detection in Cervids Using MicroRNA Biomarkers from Blood

WARC scientists are testing and developing methods for the isolation of cervid exosomes from blood samples, followed by microRNA extraction and next generation sequencing.
By
Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center
Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) Detection in Cervids Using MicroRNA Biomarkers from Blood

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) Detection in Cervids Using MicroRNA Biomarkers from Blood

WARC scientists are testing and developing methods for the isolation of cervid exosomes from blood samples, followed by microRNA extraction and next generation sequencing.
Learn More
USGS science for a changing world logo

Implementing FAIR practices: Storing and displaying eDNA data in the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species database

We are working to incorporate environmental DNA (eDNA) data into the Nonindigenous Aquatic Species (NAS) database, which houses over 570,000 records of nonindigenous species nationally, and already is used by a broad user-base of managers and researchers regularly for invasive species monitoring. eDNA studies have allowed for the identification and biosurveillance of numerous invasive...
By
Community for Data Integration (CDI)
Implementing FAIR practices: Storing and displaying eDNA data in the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species database

Implementing FAIR practices: Storing and displaying eDNA data in the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species database

We are working to incorporate environmental DNA (eDNA) data into the Nonindigenous Aquatic Species (NAS) database, which houses over 570,000 records of nonindigenous species nationally, and already is used by a broad user-base of managers and researchers regularly for invasive species monitoring. eDNA studies have allowed for the identification and biosurveillance of numerous invasive and threaten
Learn More
USGS science for a changing world logo

Establishing standards and integrating environmental DNA (eDNA) data into the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species database

Environmental DNA (eDNA) testing allows for high sensitivity monitoring efforts of cryptic species in large, remote systems and is performed by investigating water and soil samples for sloughed DNA. Having access to eDNA datasets across multiple taxa and ecosystems is necessary for improved coordination among researchers and management. Additionally, quality control protocols are needed...
By
Community for Data Integration (CDI)
Establishing standards and integrating environmental DNA (eDNA) data into the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species database

Establishing standards and integrating environmental DNA (eDNA) data into the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species database

Environmental DNA (eDNA) testing allows for high sensitivity monitoring efforts of cryptic species in large, remote systems and is performed by investigating water and soil samples for sloughed DNA. Having access to eDNA datasets across multiple taxa and ecosystems is necessary for improved coordination among researchers and management. Additionally, quality control protocols are needed to vet inc
Learn More

RNA yield and sequencing data from Exosomal miRNA isolation in white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) for diagnostic biomarker discovery RNA yield and sequencing data from Exosomal miRNA isolation in white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) for diagnostic biomarker discovery

This study presents the isolation of exosomes and RNA from 20 samples of white-tailed deer serum using a commercially available kit, incorporating optimizations for RNA yield through two elutions and replicate pooling. The RNA yield from each method is reported, with six samples processed using three techniques. Seven samples underwent RNA sequencing, where total RNA was prepared for...
By
Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Data from the development and evaluation of a CRISPR/Cas12a-based biosensor for the detection of DNA from Pseudogymnoascus destructans using samples collected from various species of bats across the United States, from 2018 to 2023 Data from the development and evaluation of a CRISPR/Cas12a-based biosensor for the detection of DNA from Pseudogymnoascus destructans using samples collected from various species of bats across the United States, from 2018 to 2023

Reported here are the fluorescence data points recorded from CRISPR/Cas12a biosensor assays to detect the presence or absence of DNA from Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd), the causative fungal agent of white-nose syndrome in bats, from artificial controls, dermal swab, and guano samples. Ct values from qPCR experiments are also provided in a table. Furthermore, we also provide the...
By
Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) genomic data of moose (Alces alces) from the contiguous United States, 2009-2017 Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) genomic data of moose (Alces alces) from the contiguous United States, 2009-2017

We analyzed the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) present in the genomes of moose representing 3 subspecies in the contiguous United States. Blood samples were collected opportunistically from collaborators during field efforts or were supplied to our lab from collaborators' archives, and represented moose sampling occurring between 2009-2017. DNA was extracted, sequenced using next...
By
Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Burmese python environmental DNA data, and associated attributes, collected from ARM Loxahatchee NWR and surrounding areas, from 2014-2016 Burmese python environmental DNA data, and associated attributes, collected from ARM Loxahatchee NWR and surrounding areas, from 2014-2016

Environmental DNA (eDNA) detection of invasive species can be used to delimit occupied ranges and estimate probabilities to inform management decisions. Environmental DNA is shed into the environment through skin cells and bodily fluids and can be detected in water samples collected from lakes, rivers, and swamps. In south Florida, invasive Burmese pythons occupy much of the Greater...
By
Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Droplet digital PCR data from method testing to improve eDNA yield and reduce inhibitors from environmental water samples Droplet digital PCR data from method testing to improve eDNA yield and reduce inhibitors from environmental water samples

Data files for manuscript "Improving eDNA yield and inhibitor reduction through increased water volumes and modified multi-filter isolation techniques". These include the results of different treatments for inhibitor removal from a water sample and DNA yield quantities from such tests. Environmental DNA (eDNA) methods detect genetic material that is shed into the environment through skin...
By
Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Novel protocol for moose DNA extraction from Tempus blood tube supernatant following RNA extraction Novel protocol for moose DNA extraction from Tempus blood tube supernatant following RNA extraction

Data were collected to validate the use of supernatant from the isolation of RNA from Tempus blood RNA tubes to obtain genomic DNA in the associated blood sample from moose. Data represent the metrics measured to validate the novel technique for isolating DNA from the supernatant of an RNA isolation protocol using blood collected into Tempus blood RNA tubes.
By
Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Manatee environmental DNA data, and associated attributes, collected from the United States, Cuba, and Cameroon, from 2013-2015 Manatee environmental DNA data, and associated attributes, collected from the United States, Cuba, and Cameroon, from 2013-2015

Environmental DNA (eDNA) detection is a rapidly expanding technique used to non-invasively detect cryptic, low density, or logistically difficult-to-study species, such as imperiled manatees. Genetic material shed into the environment through tissue and body fluids is concentrated from water samples and analyzed for the presence of targeted eDNA. To help delineate manatee habitat ranges...
By
Wetland and Aquatic Research Center
Filter Total Items: 16

Exosomal micro RNA isolation in white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) for diagnostic biomarker discovery Exosomal micro RNA isolation in white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) for diagnostic biomarker discovery

Molecular approaches are becoming more prevalent for the diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases in human medicine and can be extended to diagnosis of wildlife diseases such as chronic wasting disease and other prion diseases. These diseases have been associated with exosome-bound molecular biomarkers of disease progression, such as proteins and micro RNA molecules (miRNA). We tested and...
Authors
Maite De Maria, Lillian G. Maxwell, Margaret Hunter, Jason Ferrante
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

U.S. Geological Survey science strategy to address chronic wasting disease and cervid health in 2024–2028 U.S. Geological Survey science strategy to address chronic wasting disease and cervid health in 2024–2028

Chronic wasting disease (CWD), a neurological disease similar to scrapie in goats and sheep, has been spreading since the 1960s throughout cervid populations in the United States. It is currently detected in 30 States and now also extends to Canada, Korea, and Scandinavia. CWD is a fatal disease caused by an infectious abnormally folded prion protein. Population-level effects of CWD on...
Authors
Jason Ferrante, Jonathan D. Cook, Paul C. Cross, M. Camille Hopkins
By
Ecosystems Mission Area

Community for Data Integration 2020 project report Community for Data Integration 2020 project report

The U.S. Geological Survey Community for Data Integration annually funds small projects focusing on data integration for interdisciplinary research, innovative data management, and demonstration of new technologies. This report provides a summary of the 12 projects funded in fiscal year 2020, outlining their goals, activities, and accomplishments.
Authors
Leslie Hsu, Emily G. Chapin, Theodore B. Barnhart, Amanda E. Cravens, Richard A. Erickson, Jason Ferrante, Aaron Fox, Nathaniel P. Hitt, Margaret Hunter, Katharine Kolb, Jared R. Peacock, Matthew D. Petkewich, Sasha C. Reed, Terry Sohl, Tanja N. Williamson
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Science Analytics and Synthesis (SAS) Program, Science Synthesis, Analysis and Research Program, Community for Data Integration (CDI), Fort Collins Science Center, Southwest Biological Science Center, Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

A minimally invasive, field-applicable CRISPR/Cas biosensor to aid in the detection of Pseudogymnoascus destructans, the causative fungal agent of white-nose syndrome in bats A minimally invasive, field-applicable CRISPR/Cas biosensor to aid in the detection of Pseudogymnoascus destructans, the causative fungal agent of white-nose syndrome in bats

The accessibility to CRISPR/Cas (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats/CRISPR-associated protein) genetic tools has given rise to applications beyond site-directed genome editing for the detection of DNA and RNA. These tools include precise diagnostic detection of human disease pathogens, such as SARS-CoV-2 and Zika virus. Despite the technology being rapid and cost...
Authors
Adam Alberto Perez, Abigail Tobin, John V. Stechly, Jason Ferrante, Margaret Hunter
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Community for data integration 2019 project report Community for data integration 2019 project report

The U.S. Geological Survey Community for Data Integration annually supports small projects focusing on data integration for interdisciplinary research, innovative data management, and demonstration of new technologies. This report provides a summary of the 14 projects supported in fiscal year 2019 and outlines their goals, activities, and accomplishments. Proposals in 2019 were...
Authors
Amanda N. Liford, Caitlin M. Andrews, Aparna Bamzai, Joseph A. Bard, David S. Blehert, John B. Bradford, Wesley M. Daniel, Sara L. Caldwell Eldridge, Frank Engel, Jason A. Ferrante, Amy K. Gilmer, Margaret E. Hunter, Jeanne M. Jones, Benjamin Letcher, Frances L. Lightsom, Richard R. McDonald, Leah E. Morgan, Sasha C. Reed, Leslie Hsu
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Water Resources Mission Area, Science Synthesis, Analysis and Research Program, Science Analytics and Synthesis (SAS) Program, Volcano Hazards Program, Community for Data Integration (CDI), Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Geosciences and Environmental Change Science Center, National Wildlife Health Center, Oklahoma-Texas Water Science Center, Southwest Biological Science Center, Volcano Science Center, Western Geographic Science Center, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center , Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center, Science Data Management

Gaining decision-maker confidence through community consensus: Developing environmental DNA standards for data display on the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species database Gaining decision-maker confidence through community consensus: Developing environmental DNA standards for data display on the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species database

To advance national efforts for the detection and biosurveillance of aquatic invasive species (AIS), we employed a community consensus process to enable the incorporation of environmental DNA (eDNA) detection data into the U.S. Geological Survey’s (USGS) Nonindigenous Aquatic Species (NAS) database (https://nas.er.usgs.gov/eDNA/). Our goal was to identify minimum standards and best...
Authors
Jason Ferrante, Wesley M. Daniel, Jonathan (Contractor) Adam Freedman, Katy E. Klymus, Matthew Neilson, Yale Passamaneck, Christopher B. Rees, Adam J. Sepulveda, Margaret Hunter
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Community for Data Integration (CDI), Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

A framework to integrate innovations in invasion science for proactive management A framework to integrate innovations in invasion science for proactive management

Invasive alien species (IAS) are a rising threat to biodiversity, national security, and regional economies, with impacts in the hundreds of billions of U.S. dollars annually. Proactive or predictive approaches guided by scientific knowledge are essential to keeping pace with growing impacts of invasions under climate change. Although the rapid development of diverse technologies and...
Authors
Charles B. van Rees, Brian K. Hand, Sean C. Carter, Charles Bargeron, Timothy Joseph Cline, Wesley M. Daniel, Jason A. Ferrante, Keith Gaddis, Margaret E. Hunter, Catherine S. Jarnevich, Melodie A. McGeoch, Jeffrey T. Morisette, Matthew E. Neilson, Helen E. Roy, Mary Ann Rozance, Adam Sepulveda, Rebekah D. Wallace, Diane Whited, Taylor Wilcox, John S. Kimball, Gordon Luikart
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Fort Collins Science Center, Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Genome-wide SNP analysis of three moose subspecies at the southern range limit in the contiguous United States Genome-wide SNP analysis of three moose subspecies at the southern range limit in the contiguous United States

Genome-wide evaluations of genetic diversity and population structure are important for informing management and conservation of trailing-edge populations. North American moose (Alces alces) are declining along portions of the southern edge of their range due to disease, species interactions, and marginal habitat, all of which may be exacerbated by climate change. We employed a...
Authors
Jason Ferrante, Chase H. Smith, Laura Thompson, Margaret Hunter
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Lipidomics reveals specific lipid molecules associated with cold stress syndrome in the Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris) Lipidomics reveals specific lipid molecules associated with cold stress syndrome in the Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris)

Cold stress syndrome (CSS) in the Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris) results in perturbations to many physiological pathways, often leading to further illness or death. In this study, we applied a non-targeted lipidomics approach with ultra-high performance liquid chromatography and high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry to characterize changes related to CSS in the...
Authors
Emily K. Griffin, Kaylie Anne Costa, Juan J. Aristizabal-Henao, Michael P. Napolitano, Margaret Hunter, Jason Ferrante, John A. Bowden
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Environmental DNA (eDNA) detection of nonnative bullseye snakehead in southern Florida Environmental DNA (eDNA) detection of nonnative bullseye snakehead in southern Florida

Bullseye Snakehead Channa marulius (Hamilton 1822) was first detected in the southern Florida town of Tamarac in 2000 and has been expanding its geographic range since. Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis is a newly-developed technique used to noninvasively detect cryptic or low-density species or those that are logistically difficult-to-study. Genetic material shed into the environment...
Authors
Margaret Hunter, Pam Schofield, Gaia Meigs-Friend, Mary Brown, Jason Ferrante
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Efficacy of eDNA as an early detection indicator for Burmese pythons in the ARM Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge in the Greater Everglades Ecosystem Efficacy of eDNA as an early detection indicator for Burmese pythons in the ARM Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge in the Greater Everglades Ecosystem

Environmental DNA (eDNA) detection of invasive species can be used to delimited occupied ranges and estimate probabilities to inform management decisions. Environmental DNA is shed into the environment through skin cells and bodily fluids and can be detected in water samples collected from lakes, rivers, and swamps. In south Florida, invasive Burmese pythons occupy much of the Greater...
Authors
Margaret Hunter, Gaia Meigs-Friend, Jason Ferrante, Brian Smith, Kristen Hart
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Improving eDNA yield and inhibitor reduction through increased water volumes and multi-filter isolation techniques Improving eDNA yield and inhibitor reduction through increased water volumes and multi-filter isolation techniques

To inform management and conservation decisions, environmental DNA (eDNA) methods are used to detect genetic material shed into the water by imperiled and invasive species. Methodological enhancements are needed to reduce filter clogging, PCR inhibition, and false-negative detections when eDNA is at low concentrations. In the first of three simple experiments, we sought to ameliorate...
Authors
Margaret Hunter, Jason Ferrante, Gaia Meigs-Friend, Amelia Ulmer
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Science and Products

deer with CWD

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) Detection in Cervids Using MicroRNA Biomarkers from Blood

WARC scientists are testing and developing methods for the isolation of cervid exosomes from blood samples, followed by microRNA extraction and next generation sequencing.
By
Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center
Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) Detection in Cervids Using MicroRNA Biomarkers from Blood

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) Detection in Cervids Using MicroRNA Biomarkers from Blood

WARC scientists are testing and developing methods for the isolation of cervid exosomes from blood samples, followed by microRNA extraction and next generation sequencing.
Learn More
USGS science for a changing world logo

Implementing FAIR practices: Storing and displaying eDNA data in the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species database

We are working to incorporate environmental DNA (eDNA) data into the Nonindigenous Aquatic Species (NAS) database, which houses over 570,000 records of nonindigenous species nationally, and already is used by a broad user-base of managers and researchers regularly for invasive species monitoring. eDNA studies have allowed for the identification and biosurveillance of numerous invasive...
By
Community for Data Integration (CDI)
Implementing FAIR practices: Storing and displaying eDNA data in the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species database

Implementing FAIR practices: Storing and displaying eDNA data in the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species database

We are working to incorporate environmental DNA (eDNA) data into the Nonindigenous Aquatic Species (NAS) database, which houses over 570,000 records of nonindigenous species nationally, and already is used by a broad user-base of managers and researchers regularly for invasive species monitoring. eDNA studies have allowed for the identification and biosurveillance of numerous invasive and threaten
Learn More
USGS science for a changing world logo

Establishing standards and integrating environmental DNA (eDNA) data into the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species database

Environmental DNA (eDNA) testing allows for high sensitivity monitoring efforts of cryptic species in large, remote systems and is performed by investigating water and soil samples for sloughed DNA. Having access to eDNA datasets across multiple taxa and ecosystems is necessary for improved coordination among researchers and management. Additionally, quality control protocols are needed...
By
Community for Data Integration (CDI)
Establishing standards and integrating environmental DNA (eDNA) data into the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species database

Establishing standards and integrating environmental DNA (eDNA) data into the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species database

Environmental DNA (eDNA) testing allows for high sensitivity monitoring efforts of cryptic species in large, remote systems and is performed by investigating water and soil samples for sloughed DNA. Having access to eDNA datasets across multiple taxa and ecosystems is necessary for improved coordination among researchers and management. Additionally, quality control protocols are needed to vet inc
Learn More

RNA yield and sequencing data from Exosomal miRNA isolation in white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) for diagnostic biomarker discovery RNA yield and sequencing data from Exosomal miRNA isolation in white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) for diagnostic biomarker discovery

This study presents the isolation of exosomes and RNA from 20 samples of white-tailed deer serum using a commercially available kit, incorporating optimizations for RNA yield through two elutions and replicate pooling. The RNA yield from each method is reported, with six samples processed using three techniques. Seven samples underwent RNA sequencing, where total RNA was prepared for...
By
Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Data from the development and evaluation of a CRISPR/Cas12a-based biosensor for the detection of DNA from Pseudogymnoascus destructans using samples collected from various species of bats across the United States, from 2018 to 2023 Data from the development and evaluation of a CRISPR/Cas12a-based biosensor for the detection of DNA from Pseudogymnoascus destructans using samples collected from various species of bats across the United States, from 2018 to 2023

Reported here are the fluorescence data points recorded from CRISPR/Cas12a biosensor assays to detect the presence or absence of DNA from Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd), the causative fungal agent of white-nose syndrome in bats, from artificial controls, dermal swab, and guano samples. Ct values from qPCR experiments are also provided in a table. Furthermore, we also provide the...
By
Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) genomic data of moose (Alces alces) from the contiguous United States, 2009-2017 Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) genomic data of moose (Alces alces) from the contiguous United States, 2009-2017

We analyzed the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) present in the genomes of moose representing 3 subspecies in the contiguous United States. Blood samples were collected opportunistically from collaborators during field efforts or were supplied to our lab from collaborators' archives, and represented moose sampling occurring between 2009-2017. DNA was extracted, sequenced using next...
By
Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Burmese python environmental DNA data, and associated attributes, collected from ARM Loxahatchee NWR and surrounding areas, from 2014-2016 Burmese python environmental DNA data, and associated attributes, collected from ARM Loxahatchee NWR and surrounding areas, from 2014-2016

Environmental DNA (eDNA) detection of invasive species can be used to delimit occupied ranges and estimate probabilities to inform management decisions. Environmental DNA is shed into the environment through skin cells and bodily fluids and can be detected in water samples collected from lakes, rivers, and swamps. In south Florida, invasive Burmese pythons occupy much of the Greater...
By
Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Droplet digital PCR data from method testing to improve eDNA yield and reduce inhibitors from environmental water samples Droplet digital PCR data from method testing to improve eDNA yield and reduce inhibitors from environmental water samples

Data files for manuscript "Improving eDNA yield and inhibitor reduction through increased water volumes and modified multi-filter isolation techniques". These include the results of different treatments for inhibitor removal from a water sample and DNA yield quantities from such tests. Environmental DNA (eDNA) methods detect genetic material that is shed into the environment through skin...
By
Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Novel protocol for moose DNA extraction from Tempus blood tube supernatant following RNA extraction Novel protocol for moose DNA extraction from Tempus blood tube supernatant following RNA extraction

Data were collected to validate the use of supernatant from the isolation of RNA from Tempus blood RNA tubes to obtain genomic DNA in the associated blood sample from moose. Data represent the metrics measured to validate the novel technique for isolating DNA from the supernatant of an RNA isolation protocol using blood collected into Tempus blood RNA tubes.
By
Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Manatee environmental DNA data, and associated attributes, collected from the United States, Cuba, and Cameroon, from 2013-2015 Manatee environmental DNA data, and associated attributes, collected from the United States, Cuba, and Cameroon, from 2013-2015

Environmental DNA (eDNA) detection is a rapidly expanding technique used to non-invasively detect cryptic, low density, or logistically difficult-to-study species, such as imperiled manatees. Genetic material shed into the environment through tissue and body fluids is concentrated from water samples and analyzed for the presence of targeted eDNA. To help delineate manatee habitat ranges...
By
Wetland and Aquatic Research Center
Filter Total Items: 16

Exosomal micro RNA isolation in white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) for diagnostic biomarker discovery Exosomal micro RNA isolation in white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) for diagnostic biomarker discovery

Molecular approaches are becoming more prevalent for the diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases in human medicine and can be extended to diagnosis of wildlife diseases such as chronic wasting disease and other prion diseases. These diseases have been associated with exosome-bound molecular biomarkers of disease progression, such as proteins and micro RNA molecules (miRNA). We tested and...
Authors
Maite De Maria, Lillian G. Maxwell, Margaret Hunter, Jason Ferrante
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

U.S. Geological Survey science strategy to address chronic wasting disease and cervid health in 2024–2028 U.S. Geological Survey science strategy to address chronic wasting disease and cervid health in 2024–2028

Chronic wasting disease (CWD), a neurological disease similar to scrapie in goats and sheep, has been spreading since the 1960s throughout cervid populations in the United States. It is currently detected in 30 States and now also extends to Canada, Korea, and Scandinavia. CWD is a fatal disease caused by an infectious abnormally folded prion protein. Population-level effects of CWD on...
Authors
Jason Ferrante, Jonathan D. Cook, Paul C. Cross, M. Camille Hopkins
By
Ecosystems Mission Area

Community for Data Integration 2020 project report Community for Data Integration 2020 project report

The U.S. Geological Survey Community for Data Integration annually funds small projects focusing on data integration for interdisciplinary research, innovative data management, and demonstration of new technologies. This report provides a summary of the 12 projects funded in fiscal year 2020, outlining their goals, activities, and accomplishments.
Authors
Leslie Hsu, Emily G. Chapin, Theodore B. Barnhart, Amanda E. Cravens, Richard A. Erickson, Jason Ferrante, Aaron Fox, Nathaniel P. Hitt, Margaret Hunter, Katharine Kolb, Jared R. Peacock, Matthew D. Petkewich, Sasha C. Reed, Terry Sohl, Tanja N. Williamson
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Science Analytics and Synthesis (SAS) Program, Science Synthesis, Analysis and Research Program, Community for Data Integration (CDI), Fort Collins Science Center, Southwest Biological Science Center, Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

A minimally invasive, field-applicable CRISPR/Cas biosensor to aid in the detection of Pseudogymnoascus destructans, the causative fungal agent of white-nose syndrome in bats A minimally invasive, field-applicable CRISPR/Cas biosensor to aid in the detection of Pseudogymnoascus destructans, the causative fungal agent of white-nose syndrome in bats

The accessibility to CRISPR/Cas (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats/CRISPR-associated protein) genetic tools has given rise to applications beyond site-directed genome editing for the detection of DNA and RNA. These tools include precise diagnostic detection of human disease pathogens, such as SARS-CoV-2 and Zika virus. Despite the technology being rapid and cost...
Authors
Adam Alberto Perez, Abigail Tobin, John V. Stechly, Jason Ferrante, Margaret Hunter
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Community for data integration 2019 project report Community for data integration 2019 project report

The U.S. Geological Survey Community for Data Integration annually supports small projects focusing on data integration for interdisciplinary research, innovative data management, and demonstration of new technologies. This report provides a summary of the 14 projects supported in fiscal year 2019 and outlines their goals, activities, and accomplishments. Proposals in 2019 were...
Authors
Amanda N. Liford, Caitlin M. Andrews, Aparna Bamzai, Joseph A. Bard, David S. Blehert, John B. Bradford, Wesley M. Daniel, Sara L. Caldwell Eldridge, Frank Engel, Jason A. Ferrante, Amy K. Gilmer, Margaret E. Hunter, Jeanne M. Jones, Benjamin Letcher, Frances L. Lightsom, Richard R. McDonald, Leah E. Morgan, Sasha C. Reed, Leslie Hsu
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Water Resources Mission Area, Science Synthesis, Analysis and Research Program, Science Analytics and Synthesis (SAS) Program, Volcano Hazards Program, Community for Data Integration (CDI), Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Geosciences and Environmental Change Science Center, National Wildlife Health Center, Oklahoma-Texas Water Science Center, Southwest Biological Science Center, Volcano Science Center, Western Geographic Science Center, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center , Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center, Science Data Management

Gaining decision-maker confidence through community consensus: Developing environmental DNA standards for data display on the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species database Gaining decision-maker confidence through community consensus: Developing environmental DNA standards for data display on the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species database

To advance national efforts for the detection and biosurveillance of aquatic invasive species (AIS), we employed a community consensus process to enable the incorporation of environmental DNA (eDNA) detection data into the U.S. Geological Survey’s (USGS) Nonindigenous Aquatic Species (NAS) database (https://nas.er.usgs.gov/eDNA/). Our goal was to identify minimum standards and best...
Authors
Jason Ferrante, Wesley M. Daniel, Jonathan (Contractor) Adam Freedman, Katy E. Klymus, Matthew Neilson, Yale Passamaneck, Christopher B. Rees, Adam J. Sepulveda, Margaret Hunter
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Community for Data Integration (CDI), Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

A framework to integrate innovations in invasion science for proactive management A framework to integrate innovations in invasion science for proactive management

Invasive alien species (IAS) are a rising threat to biodiversity, national security, and regional economies, with impacts in the hundreds of billions of U.S. dollars annually. Proactive or predictive approaches guided by scientific knowledge are essential to keeping pace with growing impacts of invasions under climate change. Although the rapid development of diverse technologies and...
Authors
Charles B. van Rees, Brian K. Hand, Sean C. Carter, Charles Bargeron, Timothy Joseph Cline, Wesley M. Daniel, Jason A. Ferrante, Keith Gaddis, Margaret E. Hunter, Catherine S. Jarnevich, Melodie A. McGeoch, Jeffrey T. Morisette, Matthew E. Neilson, Helen E. Roy, Mary Ann Rozance, Adam Sepulveda, Rebekah D. Wallace, Diane Whited, Taylor Wilcox, John S. Kimball, Gordon Luikart
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Fort Collins Science Center, Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Genome-wide SNP analysis of three moose subspecies at the southern range limit in the contiguous United States Genome-wide SNP analysis of three moose subspecies at the southern range limit in the contiguous United States

Genome-wide evaluations of genetic diversity and population structure are important for informing management and conservation of trailing-edge populations. North American moose (Alces alces) are declining along portions of the southern edge of their range due to disease, species interactions, and marginal habitat, all of which may be exacerbated by climate change. We employed a...
Authors
Jason Ferrante, Chase H. Smith, Laura Thompson, Margaret Hunter
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Lipidomics reveals specific lipid molecules associated with cold stress syndrome in the Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris) Lipidomics reveals specific lipid molecules associated with cold stress syndrome in the Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris)

Cold stress syndrome (CSS) in the Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris) results in perturbations to many physiological pathways, often leading to further illness or death. In this study, we applied a non-targeted lipidomics approach with ultra-high performance liquid chromatography and high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry to characterize changes related to CSS in the...
Authors
Emily K. Griffin, Kaylie Anne Costa, Juan J. Aristizabal-Henao, Michael P. Napolitano, Margaret Hunter, Jason Ferrante, John A. Bowden
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Environmental DNA (eDNA) detection of nonnative bullseye snakehead in southern Florida Environmental DNA (eDNA) detection of nonnative bullseye snakehead in southern Florida

Bullseye Snakehead Channa marulius (Hamilton 1822) was first detected in the southern Florida town of Tamarac in 2000 and has been expanding its geographic range since. Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis is a newly-developed technique used to noninvasively detect cryptic or low-density species or those that are logistically difficult-to-study. Genetic material shed into the environment...
Authors
Margaret Hunter, Pam Schofield, Gaia Meigs-Friend, Mary Brown, Jason Ferrante
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Efficacy of eDNA as an early detection indicator for Burmese pythons in the ARM Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge in the Greater Everglades Ecosystem Efficacy of eDNA as an early detection indicator for Burmese pythons in the ARM Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge in the Greater Everglades Ecosystem

Environmental DNA (eDNA) detection of invasive species can be used to delimited occupied ranges and estimate probabilities to inform management decisions. Environmental DNA is shed into the environment through skin cells and bodily fluids and can be detected in water samples collected from lakes, rivers, and swamps. In south Florida, invasive Burmese pythons occupy much of the Greater...
Authors
Margaret Hunter, Gaia Meigs-Friend, Jason Ferrante, Brian Smith, Kristen Hart
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center

Improving eDNA yield and inhibitor reduction through increased water volumes and multi-filter isolation techniques Improving eDNA yield and inhibitor reduction through increased water volumes and multi-filter isolation techniques

To inform management and conservation decisions, environmental DNA (eDNA) methods are used to detect genetic material shed into the water by imperiled and invasive species. Methodological enhancements are needed to reduce filter clogging, PCR inhibition, and false-negative detections when eDNA is at low concentrations. In the first of three simple experiments, we sought to ameliorate...
Authors
Margaret Hunter, Jason Ferrante, Gaia Meigs-Friend, Amelia Ulmer
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center
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