A rapid microbiological point-of-care test for respiratory infections has proved popular with GPs and may reduce unnecessary antibiotic prescribing. The study found that clinicians changed the diagnosis in one in five patients following testing and were more certain of the diagnosis after detecting a virus or bacterium.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalFamily Practice·DateMar 3, 2021
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A study of private insurance claims data found nearly half of women with uncomplicated urinary tract infections received the wrong antibiotics and three-quarters received prescriptions for longer than necessary. Rural areas tend to have inappropriately long treatment durations, which can lead to adverse events and antibiotic resistance.
SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateFeb 24, 2021
A recent study reveals how bacteria develop tolerance to beta-lactam antibiotics, leading to persistent infections. The researchers identified a system that mitigates iron toxicity in tolerant bacteria, opening the door for new therapies that exploit oxidative damage and iron influx.
SourceCornell University·JournalEMBO Reports·DateFeb 22, 2021
A University of Queensland-led project combines old antibiotics with a new compound to revive their effectiveness against drug-resistant bacteria. The goal is to combat the growing threat of superbugs, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Researchers found amoxicillin-clavulanate as effective as metronidazole-with-fluoroquinolone in preventing diverticulitis-related admissions. The treatment reduced the risk of fluoroquinolone-related harms, including Clostridioides difficile infection.
SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 22, 2021
Researchers have isolated monoclonal antibodies that effectively target and inhibit the growth of tuberculosis germs in laboratory mice. These biological antibiotics show promise as an alternative to traditional chemical antibiotics, offering a safer and more stable treatment option.
SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 22, 2021
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A study by MIT researchers has identified a class of metabolic mutations in bacteria that helps them develop resistance to antibiotics. The findings suggest that forcing bacteria to burn more energy could make them more susceptible to antibiotics, and may lead to the development of new drugs to enhance existing antibiotic effectiveness.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateFeb 18, 2021
A study found that older adults understand the risks of overusing antibiotics, but many still use them incorrectly. Over 91% of respondents are cautious about using antibiotics, yet nearly 56% believe doctors overprescribe them, while 34% think antibiotics can help with viral illnesses like colds and flu.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateFeb 18, 2021
Research found fidaxomicin is more effective than existing TB medication at preventing growth of M. tuberculosis, including resistant strains. Fidaxomicin's in vitro activity was compared to rifampicin and showed promise as a potential new treatment for TB.
SourceMicrobiology Society·JournalJournal of Medical Microbiology·DateFeb 17, 2021
A new study by RAND Corporation found that low-value healthcare spending among Medicare recipients decreased marginally from 2014 to 2018, but three services - opioid prescriptions for back pain, preoperative laboratory testing, and antibiotic use for upper respiratory infections - accounted for two-thirds of the wasteful care. The fin...
SourceRAND Corporation·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 16, 2021
A team of veterinarians from RUDN University tested a complex preparation called gentaminoseleferon to treat respiratory infection in calves. The study showed that the treatment reduced inflammatory processes and promoted active recovery of metabolism, indicating its therapeutic efficiency.
SourceRUDN University·JournalVeterinary World·DateFeb 10, 2021
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Two studies published in The BMJ found no associations between prescription opioids or macrolide antibiotics and major birth defects during pregnancy. Researchers did find a small increased risk of cleft palate associated with opioid use, but overall risks were deemed minimal. The findings provide reassurance for women and inform clini...
Researchers at the University of Southern Denmark have developed a new effective antibiotic to combat resistant bacteria, which are becoming increasingly difficult to treat. The substance, from the pleuromutilin class, fights multiple types of resistant bacteria via a unique mechanism of action.
SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateFeb 10, 2021
Research published in the Archives of Disease in Childhood suggests a link between fetal exposure to antibiotics in mid-to-late pregnancy and an increased risk of childhood asthma. The study found that children born vaginally were more likely to develop asthma, with higher odds for more serious cases.
SourceBMJ Group·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·DateFeb 9, 2021
A study from Texas A&M AgriLife Communications reveals that membrane-localized phage proteins may help revitalize and enhance existing antibiotics. Researchers identified 35 unique lysis genes in E. coli bacteria, which could potentially represent new mechanisms for bacterial cell lysis.
SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 5, 2021
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Scientists at University of Warwick and Monash University discovered the molecular basis of a biological mechanism controlling antibiotic production in soil bacteria. This breakthrough could lead to improved manufacturing of existing antibiotics and uncovering new ones.
SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature·DateFeb 3, 2021
A new computer modeling tool integrates real-time data to help clinicians determine if a child with diarrhoea needs antibiotics. The tool shows promising results, reducing inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions by over 50%.
Dr. Chu-Young Kim's research team is working on modifying existing antibiotic molecules using microorganisms that naturally synthesize them. This approach aims to overcome resistance and provide affordable treatment options for patients. The goal is to engineer bacteria to produce modified antibiotics via fermentation.
The researcher aims to identify common mechanisms among persister cells and their unique metabolic processes. The goal is to develop new strategies for understanding and combating bacterial persistence.
Research at Carnegie Mellon University reveals that certain bacteria can change their shape in response to antibiotic exposure, enabling them to overcome stress and resume fast growth. The study demonstrates how cell shape affects bacterial reproduction and survival, providing insight into the mechanisms of antibiotic resistance.
SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalNature Physics·DateJan 29, 2021
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SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.
Research by Michigan State University finds that livestock workers are at high risk of acquiring antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The study highlights the importance of good hygiene practices and policies in minimizing the spread of livestock-associated MRSA.
SourceMichigan State University·JournalThe BMJ·DateJan 28, 2021
Researchers have developed a method to simultaneously measure 77 antibiotics in various foods, including meat, eggs, milk, cereals, vegetables, and fruits. The new approach allows for the detection of multiple classes of antibiotics at trace amounts, which can contribute to increased antibiotic resistance and gut microbiome imbalance.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateJan 27, 2021
A new study found that exposure to antibiotics within the first 14 days of life is associated with reduced weight and height in boys up to age six. However, antibiotic use after neonatal period leads to higher body mass index (BMI) in both boys and girls during childhood.
SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 26, 2021
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Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.
A global analysis of antibiotic combination use reveals that 80% of commonly prescribed combinations are not recommended by the WHO. The study found that these inappropriate combinations can lead to inefficacy, toxicity, and selection for antimicrobial resistance.
Researchers found that membrane vesicles, which carry biological information between bacteria and cells, produce more info-rich bubbles in response to antibiotics. This may lead to the transmission of warning signals to neighboring cells and potentially foster antibiotic resistance.
SourceArizona State University·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 20, 2021
A new study reveals that a single water molecule is essential for the binding of macrolide antibiotics to bacterial ribosomes, explaining why resistant bacteria are immune to these drugs. This discovery offers a promising lead in developing new antibiotics that do not require this water molecule for binding.
SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJan 19, 2021
Researchers at Penn State have discovered a unique enzyme-catalyzed reaction in the production of thiostrepton, a potent antibiotic that can also target breast cancer cells. The breakthrough, detailed in a new Nature Chemistry study, could lead to the development of more effective human medicines.
SourcePenn State·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJan 18, 2021
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Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.
Researchers used CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing to increase formicamycin production in Streptomyces formicae bacteria, which could lead to new antibiotics against MRSA. The over-producing strain can be used to purify enough formicamycins to study their mode of action and development as antibiotics.
SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateJan 12, 2021
A randomized clinical trial evaluated two antibiotic strategies for adults with uncomplicated acute appendicitis. The study found that one strategy resulted in lower rates of hospital discharge without surgery and recurrent appendicitis over a year.
A randomized controlled trial found no difference in infection rates and sinus symptoms between patients who received antibiotics and those who didn't after endoscopic sinus surgery. However, patients in the antibiotic group were more likely to report gastrointestinal side effects.
SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalInternational Forum of Allergy & Rhinology·DateJan 6, 2021
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Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.
Researchers developed a new imaging method to track antibiotic distribution in infected tissues, revealing that some antibiotics only partially penetrate infected cells. This discovery could lead to more targeted treatments and reduced risk of antibiotic resistance.
SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 5, 2021
Scientists at UC Santa Barbara have developed a new approach to addressing the challenge of antibiotic-resistant bacteria by replacing antibiotics with fluoride. The method uses a genetically engineered cell that can survive in the lab but dies when exposed to fluoride, preventing its propagation into the natural environment.
SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 4, 2021
Researchers from Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University develop novel compounds with potential as effective antibacterial drugs against drug-resistant tuberculosis pathogens. The new substances outperform existing antibiotics in sensitivity and minimal concentration needed for inhibition.
SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalAntibiotics·DateDec 29, 2020
Scientists at University of Colorado Boulder develop new compound JD1 that targets Gram-negative bacteria by exploiting innate immune response, reducing survival and spread by 95%. Further studies underway to explore compounds like JD1 for commercialization.
SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateDec 23, 2020
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Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.
A large study challenges the conventional practice of administering antibiotics before C-section incisions, finding them equally effective when given after clamping. This discovery may benefit newborns' developing microbiomes, potentially affecting immune system development and future health.
SourceRutgers University·JournalAntimicrobial Resistance and Infection Control·DateDec 21, 2020
Researchers developed a method to reformulate gentamicin, reducing the risk of irreversible hearing loss. The new formulation, C2b, shows comparable effectiveness while minimizing toxicity.
SourceStanford Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 16, 2020
Patients in precarious circumstances are less likely to use antibiotics appropriately, highlighting the need for sustainable development policies. Research suggests that improving living conditions can lead to better antibiotic use and tackle anti-microbial resistance globally.
SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalBMJ Global Health·DateDec 9, 2020
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GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.
The University of Huddersfield's Antimicrobial Stewardship in Wound Management course has been honoured at the Antibiotic Guardian Awards. Over 8000 healthcare professionals have completed the course with high praise, exploring antimicrobial resistance and implementing infection control measures.
Scientists have developed a potential new antibiotic for Mycobacterium abscessus, a pathogen resistant to medications with cure rates less than 50%. The compound T405 demonstrated superior potency against the bacteria, as well as an ability to prevent resistance when combined with avibactam.
SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateDec 8, 2020
A new device can detect antibiotic-resistant bacteria in just five hours by measuring naturally occurring electron transfers. The device, developed by Binghamton University researchers, has the potential to serve as an important point-of-care diagnostic tool in areas with limited resources.
SourceBinghamton University·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateDec 1, 2020
Researchers at Penn State and the University of Michigan have developed an inexpensive therapy to prevent antibiotic resistance. The 'anti-antibiotic', cholestyramine, reduces fecal shedding of daptomycin-resistant bacteria by up to 80-fold, providing a potential solution to the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance.
A research team at RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research successfully evolved Escherichia coli under antibiotic pressure, identifying mechanisms and constraints underlying drug resistance. The findings can be used to develop strategies that minimize the chance of bacteria developing resistance.
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Researchers found that methacycline, a widely used tetracycline-based antibiotic, is effective at preventing brain infections and reducing neurological problems associated with Zika virus infections. The study also identified other potential candidates, including anti-inflammatory medicines and failed anti-Alzheimer's disease drugs.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·DateNov 24, 2020
A research team is working on developing new tools to guide the discovery and optimization of new antibacterial agents, addressing the growing challenge of antibiotic resistance.
SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateNov 19, 2020
A new model of CF lungs using pig lungs and synthetic mucus shows that S. aureus aggregates in mucus, rather than invading lung tissue, sparking debate over antibiotic treatment. This discovery could lead to reduced use of antibiotics and improved treatment for MRSA infection in cystic fibrosis patients.
SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalMicrobiology·DateNov 19, 2020
Researchers found that PBT2 disrupts metals in polymyxin-resistant bacteria, resensitizing them to treatment and boosting survival rates in mice with sepsis. The compound may offer a solution to the growing threat of antibiotic resistance, which poses a grave danger to patients with bacterial infections.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 18, 2020
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Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.
Environmental scientists at TalTech have developed a new ozonation method to treat drinking water contaminated with pharmaceutical residues. The study compared the efficiency of ozone, ozone/hydrogen peroxide and ozone/persulfate processes in degrading sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim, finding promising results for the O3/PS process.
SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateNov 17, 2020
Researchers found that children who received antibiotics before age 2 were more likely to develop multiple illnesses or conditions later in childhood. These include allergic rhinitis, food allergies, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, celiac disease, and atopic dermatitis.
SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateNov 16, 2020
A study of 14,572 children found that antibiotic use during the first two years of life is associated with an increased risk of asthma, respiratory allergies, eczema, obesity and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Antibiotic exposure was also linked to metabolic diseases, immunological diseases and cognitive conditions.
SourceRutgers University·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateNov 16, 2020
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.
A Harvard Medical School study found that clinicians who prescribe unnecessary antibiotics for viral infections increase the likelihood of patients seeking care for similar infections in the future. This leads to a significant increase in antibiotic prescriptions, exacerbating the problem of antibiotic resistance and unnecessary spending.
SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateNov 9, 2020
Researchers repurpose an antirheumatic gold drug, auranofin (AUR), to revive the potency of 'last-resort' antibiotics against multi-drug resistant superbugs. The combination therapy shows promising results in eradicating multidrug-resistant bacteria in animal models.
SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 5, 2020
A new study demonstrates that pooling treatment recommendations from multiple prescribers using the 'wisdom of crowds' concept can improve decisions on antibiotic prescribing and reduce overuse. Using international survey data, researchers found that groups of three or more prescribers showed significant benefits in guideline compliance.
SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 3, 2020
Researchers found that infant gut microbial ecosystems develop unique patterns of stability, with changes influenced by diet and antibiotic exposure. The study used genomic tools to analyze massive amounts of genetic data and identified individual strains within single species of the gut microbiome.
SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalFrontiers in Pediatrics·DateOct 28, 2020
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A study found that antibiotic use patterns and patient transfers drive the emergence of drug-resistant microbes, highlighting the need for individualized approaches to preventing resistance. The study suggests using alternative antibiotics like piperacillin-tazobactam instead of carbapenems may be necessary.
Doxycycline, an antibiotic, confers protection against sepsis by inhibiting mitochondrial protein production, reducing cell damage and promoting tissue repair. The study opens new possibilities for therapies targeting disease tolerance mechanisms to combat infections and diseases like sepsis.
SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalImmunity·DateOct 22, 2020
Researchers developed a rapid, cost-effective method to predict lowest antibiotic concentration increasing resistance in wastewater. The SELECT assay can generate data quickly and inform decisions on safe levels of antibiotics.
SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateOct 20, 2020
Researchers at NUST MISIS have developed antibacterial nano-coatings based on boron nitride that are highly effective against microbial pathogens, including up to 99.99% efficacy against E. coli bacteria. The coatings work by releasing the antibiotic gentamicin locally, reducing the need for high doses and minimizing side effects.
SourceNational University of Science and Technology MISIS·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateOct 20, 2020
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Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.
The CODA Trial found that antibiotics were not worse than surgery in measuring overall health status, allowing most people to avoid operations in the short term. Patients treated with antibiotics more often returned to the emergency department but missed less time from work and school.
SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 5, 2020
Researchers found that antibiotics were not worse than surgery in terms of overall health status, allowing most people to avoid operations. Patients treated with antibiotics often returned home faster but missed less time from work and school.
SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 5, 2020
The CODA trial found that antibiotics can avoid surgery for more than 70% of patients with appendicitis. However, patients with an appendicolith may face higher complications and a greater risk of needing surgery.
SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 5, 2020
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Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.