Abstract: Provided herein are methods, systems, and compositions for efficient nucleic acid assembly with improved representation and distribution. Provided herein are methods, systems, and compositions for efficient nucleic acid assembly of nucleic acids encoding genes for use in various downstream processes.

Abstract: Provided herein are compositions and methods for identifying genomic variants. Further provided herein are standards useful for determining the analytical sensitivity and/or accuracy of instruments configured to measure nucleic acid variant frequencies.

Abstract: A composite plectrum with a strum direction is disclosed. The plectrum is generally triangular in shape and includes a first layer of wood having a first grain direction, a layer of silk fabric with silk threads that are woven at angles to one another, and a second layer of wood with a grain in a second grain direction. The second layer of wood being adhered to the layer of silk while at 90 degrees to the first layer of wood, so that the layer of silk extends between the two layers of wood and is adhered to both layers of wood.

Abstract: Apparatus are configured to perform optical scanning functions on scannable objects. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus includes an imaging portion and a scanning portion, wherein the scanning portion is operatively located below the imaging portion. In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus includes an enclosure, a scan head operatively mounted within the enclosure, and a movable platen that is extensible relative to the enclosure to facilitate placement of scannable objects on the platen. In accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus can include a sheet feeding mechanism that can be employed to automatically feed image-bearing sheets across the platen for scanning when the platen is retracted in the scan position.