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Helpful microbes could battle pathogens in our hospitals and schools - with the help of AI to make it work

Researchers explored how AI and metabolic modeling can inform effective biocontrol strategies to combat antimicrobial resistance in built environments. Microbial biocontrol using 'good' microbes has shown promise, but inconsistent outcomes are due to various factors, including genetic differences and environmental stressors.

SourceApplied Microbiology International·JournalJournal of Applied Microbiology·DateJul 15, 2026

Integration of two genes: A valuable strategy for developing virus-resistant tomatoes

Researchers discovered a combination of Ty-1/Ty-3 and Ty-6 resistance genes in tomato plants provides highly robust protection against begomoviruses. Integration of fewer resistance genes than expected can enhance resistance, offering a promising approach for improving tomato varieties while balancing productivity and fruit quality.

SourceKindai University·JournalEuphytica·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 14, 2026

Biodiversity in the margins: Merging farmlands affects natural pest control

A new study found that removing hedgerows and field margins decreases the diversity and abundance of arthropods, which can lead to reduced natural pest control. The research suggests that using flowering plants in field margins and implementing agri-environmental measures can be effective ways to increase farmland biodiversity.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 28, 2024

Is organic farming always good for the environment? – Researchers create strategy to help decide

A recent study by Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University provides a method to help farmers and policymakers decide whether organic farming is beneficial for the environment. The researchers analyzed international studies to find a threshold where organic farming's biodiversity gain outweighs its land requirements.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalEcology Letters·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 12, 2022

Experimental topical microbicide offers convenient, long-lasting protection against genital herpes

A study by researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine found a topical microbicide using RNA interference to protect against genital herpes infection for up to a week. The microbicide combines two siRNAs to offer both immediate and sustained protection, providing hope for a cost-effective therapy in developing countries.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateJan 21, 2009

Researchers develop new tool to predict who will use microbicides

Researchers at The Miriam Hospital and Brown University developed a new tool, the 'Willingness to Use Microbicides' scale, to measure women's willingness to use microbicides. Women with past experience using protective methods and casual sexual partners were more willing to use microbicides compared to their peers.

SourceLifespan·JournalHealth Psychology·DateMar 3, 2008