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HKU scientists reveal silver-based antimicrobials can be utilized as antibiotic adjuvants to combat antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Researchers at HKU have identified 38 authentic Ag+-binding proteins in Staphylococcus aureus, revealing silver's molecular targets and mode of action. The study shows that silver-based antimicrobials can potentiate the efficacy of antibiotics, resensitize MRSA to antibiotics, and slow down antibiotic resistance evolution.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 20, 2021

Research establishes safe water thresholds for antimicrobials, to help mitigate resistance

Researchers developed a new framework to establish safe thresholds for antimicrobial release into the environment, addressing the global health threat of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The framework provides guidance on risk assessment and could inform policy to reduce antimicrobial levels in water systems, helping to mitigate resistance.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalWater Research·DateJun 10, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cells construct living composite polymers for biomedical applications

Researchers at Duke University have demonstrated that living cells can construct semi-interpenetrating polymer networks (sIPNs) for biomedical applications. These cell-built materials exhibit medically relevant functions and could be used to release protective molecules, such as antibiotics, in a controlled manner.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 10, 2021

New defense against superbugs

Researchers at Flinders University have discovered that fish oil fatty acids can render bacteria more susceptible to antibiotics. This discovery is vital in combating the rise of superbugs with unprecedented levels of antibiotic resistance.

SourceFlinders University·JournalmBio·DateJun 9, 2021
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.

Study reveals degradation of antibiotics in water by iron-based fenton catalytic

Researchers develop an iron-based catalyst that rapidly removes sulfadiazine antibiotic residues from water by activating H2O2 to generate free radicals. The catalyst shows high efficiency and stability, making it a potential solution for tackling micro-pollutants in water.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Colloid and Interface Science·DateMay 31, 2021

Ganoderic acid increases radiosensitivity of cancer cell

Researchers discovered that Ganoderic acid can increase the radiosensitivity of cancer cells, making them more susceptible to radiation therapy. This breakthrough provides new hope for cancer treatment and could lead to improved patient outcomes.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalToxicology Research·DateMay 31, 2021

Fight against antibiotic-resistant bacteria has a glowing new weapon

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed chemical probes to detect an enzyme that breaks down antibiotics, making bacteria resistant to treatment. The probes can also be used to study nutritional immunity and may help find alternative treatments for resistant bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 27, 2021

Research news tip sheet: Story ideas from Johns Hopkins Medicine

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found long-term exposure to PM2.5 increases the risk of losing one's smell by nearly twice, potentially due to airborne pollutants reaching the olfactory nerve. The study also highlights the need for better air pollution management, especially in vulnerable populations.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 27, 2021
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Hundreds of antibiotic resistant genes found in the gastrointestinal tracts of Danish infants

A new study from the University of Copenhagen reveals that Danish one-year-olds carry several hundred antibiotic resistant genes in their bacterial gut flora. The presence of these genes is partly attributable to antibiotic use among mothers during pregnancy, and well-developed gut flora may reduce the incidence of resistant bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalCell·DateMay 26, 2021

How antibiotic-filled poop helps 'bessbug' beetles stay healthy

Researchers found that horned passalus beetles, known as bessbugs, have frass teeming with antibiotic and antifungal compounds produced by actinomycetes beneficial bacteria. This discovery could help speed the search for new antibiotics and improve strategies to prevent antibiotic-resistant infections.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·DateMay 26, 2021

Can antibiotics treat human diseases in addition to bacterial infections?

A new study by UIC researchers shows that antibiotics designed for bacteria can also inhibit protein synthesis in human cells, potentially treating diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. The team engineered yeast ribosomes to be more bacterial-like, allowing them to respond to macrolide antibiotics.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 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.

No lasting benefit to tubes over antibiotics for childhood ear infections

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that surgically placing tympanostomy tubes in young children does not reduce recurrent ear infections compared to oral antibiotics. The trial also showed no increased bacterial resistance among children treated with antibiotics.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 12, 2021

Johns Hopkins develops device for fast gonorrhea diagnosis

A portable, inexpensive testing platform, called PROMPT, can diagnose gonorrhea in under 15 minutes and determine its antibiotic resistance. The device has been shown to be 97% accurate in detecting the most common strain of gonorrhea and 100% accurate in determining its response to ciprofloxacin.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 12, 2021

May/June 2021 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

Researchers from Stanford University and the University of Chicago found that hospitals with more family physicians and midwives had lower cesarean delivery rates. Meanwhile, a study on depression treatment suggests combining psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy is more effective than separate treatments. Additionally, a new analysis on f...

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMay 11, 2021
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Researchers find target to fight antibiotic resistance

A component of bacteria's cell walls, cardiolipin, may hold the key to fighting antibiotic-resistant microbes. Without it, the outer membrane becomes penetrable, making bacteria vulnerable to antibiotics.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 11, 2021
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Microneedle patch delivers antibiotics locally in the skin

Researchers developed a microneedle patch that delivers vancomycin directly into the affected skin area, significantly reducing MRSA bacterial population. This innovative approach aims to transform the treatment of skin infections by improving quality of life for patients.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateMay 10, 2021

HKUST scientists discover how antibiotics target bacterial RNAP to inhibit its gene transcription

A research team at HKUST has discovered the mechanism of DNA melting and how an antibiotic called Myxopyronin inhibits this process. The study found that Myxopyronin binds to a partially closed form of the flexible clamp domain, diminishing the gate's ability to close and eventually inhibiting DNA melting.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 4, 2021
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.

Risk of eczema after early exposure to antibiotics

A Swedish study of over 100,000 children found that early antibiotic exposure before birth and during the first year of life increases the risk of developing eczema. The research suggests a potential long-term consequence of antibiotic use on childhood skin health.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 29, 2021

Human antibiotic use threatens endangered wild chimpanzees

Research shows that nearly half of fecal samples from wild chimpanzees contain antibiotic-resistant bacteria, highlighting the need for improved hygiene and proper antibiotic use. The study's findings will support the development of interventions to protect both human health and endangered species.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalPathogens·DateApr 28, 2021

Delayed antibiotic prescribing is safe and effective for most patients

A large analysis of patient data suggests that delayed antibiotic prescribing is a safe and effective strategy for most patients, including those in higher risk subgroups. The study found no significant difference in symptom severity or duration between delayed and immediate antibiotics, but a slight benefit in reducing re-consultation...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateApr 28, 2021

Cholestenone shows antibiotic properties against H. pylori

Cholestenone inhibits H. pylori cell wall biosynthesis by suppressing CGL production, effective against clarithromycin-resistant strains and eradicating bacteria in mice fed with cholestenone-containing diets.

SourceShinshu University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 27, 2021

Common antibiotic effective in healing coral disease lesions

A new study by Florida Atlantic University's Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute reveals that a common antibiotic, amoxicillin, is effective in treating stony coral tissue loss disease. The study showed a 95% success rate in healing individual lesions, but did not prevent the development of new lesions over time.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 22, 2021
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Defensive symbiosis leads to gene loss in bacterial partners

Researchers studying the symbiotic bacteria of beewolves found signs of genome erosion and metabolic streamlining for antibiotic production. The bacteria's genome is being reduced as it focuses on its defensive symbiosis with the host insects, suggesting an adaptation to their mutual benefit.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Imaging agent enables better monitoring of patients with bacterial infections

Scientists developed an imaging agent that enables safe and rapid detection of Enterobacterales infections in patients, distinguishing between drug-susceptible and resistant strains. The agent revealed sites of infection, monitored response to antibiotics, and identified secondary bacterial infections.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 15, 2021

Good dental health may help prevent heart infection from mouth bacteria

The American Heart Association recommends prioritizing good oral hygiene and regular dental care over antibiotics for preventing heart infections caused by mouth bacteria. Patients with certain conditions, such as prosthetic heart valves or congenital heart disease, are at higher risk of developing these infections.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateApr 15, 2021

Bioactive implant coatings resistant to most bacterial strains are obtained in Russia

Researchers from NUST MISIS have created innovative multilayer coatings that synthesizes protective properties of nanoparticles, biopolymers, anticoagulants, and antibiotics. The coatings demonstrated excellent bactericidal efficacy against antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains with a prolonged antibacterial effect up to 7 days.

SourceNational University of Science and Technology MISIS·JournalApplied Surface Science·DateApr 12, 2021

Decennial day to set the agenda for advancing safe healthcare

Researchers and healthcare professionals will discuss future innovations in patient care, effective practices for improving healthcare quality, and strategies for combating emerging pathogens. The event aims to identify gaps in infection control and expand prevention approaches across healthcare settings.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·DateApr 9, 2021
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

ACP best practice advice: Shorter course of antibiotics may be appropriate for some common infection

The American College of Physicians suggests prescribing shorter antibiotics courses for uncomplicated bronchitis, pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and cellulitis, with duration guidelines varying by infection. This approach aims to reduce antibiotic exposure and prevent resistant organisms from developing.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 5, 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.

High risk of acute kidney injury in patients undergoing treatment for infected total knee replacement

A study found that nearly 20% of patients with antibiotic-loaded spacers and IV antibiotics developed acute kidney injury, with those with preexisting chronic kidney disease at highest risk. The study identified several risk factors for AKI, including high doses of antibiotics and certain heart rhythm disorders.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateMar 29, 2021
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

New antibiotic clears multi-drug resistant gonorrhea in mice in single dose

A new antibiotic compound targets a molecular pathway found in bacteria but not humans, clearing infection of multi-drug resistant gonorrhea in mice with a single oral dose. The research team developed the compound through iterative optimization and testing, demonstrating its potential as a single-dose therapy for gonorrhea.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 19, 2021

Research reveals human immune system reduces potency of antibiotics

Research reveals that nitric oxide produced by the human immune system can render aminoglycoside antibiotics ineffective against E. coli strains from human infections. This may impact treatment choices for life-threatening infections such as sepsis, bladder infections, and kidney failure.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalArchives of Microbiology·DateMar 18, 2021

Global battle against antibiotic resistance requires tailored solutions

The study found enormous differences in the availability and use of antibiotics between African and Asian countries, with Asia having more readily available antibiotics. Self-medication is a significant problem, with high rates in some countries, and context plays a crucial role in combating antibiotic resistance.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateMar 11, 2021
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.

Debaryomycesyeast prevents healing in Crohn's-diseased tissues

Researchers found that Debaryomyces hansenii promotes chronic inflammation and impairs wound healing in Crohn's disease patients. The fungus preferentially colonizes inflamed intestinal tissues, suggesting it as a potential therapeutic agent.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 11, 2021

Full evolutionary journey of hospital superbug mapped for the first time

A new study has mapped the full evolutionary journey of the bacterium Enterococcus faecalis, a common cause of antibiotic-resistant infections in hospitals. The research shows that antibiotic resistant strains developed earlier than previously thought, influenced by agricultural and early medical practices.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 9, 2021
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.

Five days of antibiotics fine for children with pneumonia

A five-day course of high-dose amoxicillin is an effective treatment for children six months to 10 years old with common pneumonia. The study found that 85.7% of those who received the short course were cured two to three weeks later.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMar 8, 2021

New model can predict how bacteria develop antibiotic resistance

A new model links bacterial metabolism and growth to mechanisms of antibiotic resistance, enabling predictions of mutation types and levels. The study suggests a previously unobserved connection between nutrient uptake and resistance development, which can inform strategies for slowing resistance emergence.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMar 4, 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.

A new model can predict the evolution of antibiotic resistance in bacteria

A new model can predict the evolution of antibiotic resistance in bacteria by analyzing growth rates and resistance levels at different drug concentrations. This knowledge can help identify optimal treatment protocols, drug targets, and new antibiotic candidates to combat resistant bacteria that threaten global health.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMar 4, 2021

Scientists explore the action mechanism of a new antibiotic

Scientists have discovered a natural inhibitor of topoisomerases II that can combat fluoroquinolone-resistant gram-negative bacteria. Nybomycin, a 'reverse antibiotic,' blocks the gyrase enzyme, rendering it effective against strains previously resistant to other antibiotics.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateMar 4, 2021