Revision of the Capsaspora genome using read mating information adjusts the view on premetazoan genome.

The genome sequences of unicellular holozoans, the closest relatives to animals, are shedding light on the evolution of animal multicellularity, shaping the genetic contents of the putative premetazoans. However, the assembly quality of the genomes remains poor compared to the major model organisms such as human and fly. Improving the assembly is critical for precise comparative genomics studies and further molecular biological studies requiring accurate sequence information such as enhancer analysis and genome editing.

Termination of life-sustaining medical treatment: who should exercise a patient's right to die?

Due to changes in the medical field introduced by the biotechnological revolution that enable physicians to prolong a patient's life artificially, courts are increasingly being called on to resolve disputes between the families of incompetent patients and the hospitals and medical personnel who are caring for them. This article discusses the significant court decisions involving the right to die and analyzes the various legislative responses to this issue. It concludes that an individual who desires to determine the timing of his or her own death should execute a living will, coupled with a durable power of attorney or proxy directive.