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New compound effective against flesh-eating bacteria

Researchers at WashU Medicine have developed a novel compound that effectively clears bacterial infections in mice, including those causing rare and potentially fatal 'flesh-eating' illnesses. The compound targets gram-positive bacteria, reducing virulence and speeding up post-infection healing.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 2, 2024

New principle for treating tuberculosis

Researchers have identified a group of molecules called callyaerins that can act against tuberculosis by targeting a specific membrane protein of the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. These substances inhibit bacterial growth without affecting human cells, offering a promising new approach to treating the disease.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateJul 31, 2024

AI opens door to safe, effective new antibiotics to combat resistant bacteria

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have leveraged AI to develop a new, safer antibiotic that targets specific bacterial membranes while minimizing harm to human cells. The AI-powered approach has identified a promising lead compound with potential for treating multidrug-resistant bacterial infections.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 31, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New type of “antibiotic” generated from the long pepper recommended

Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev have developed a new compound, PL-18, which disrupts bacterial quorum sensing and biofilm formation. This compound has shown promise in reducing bacterial virulence and inhibiting iron uptake, suggesting potential applications in combating antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalBiofilm·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 30, 2024

Bacteria and keloids

Research found higher bacterial concentrations in keloid tissue, especially in deep layers, leading to increased inflammation and fibroblast production. Antibiotics and phage treatments may help reduce bacteria and improve treatment outcomes for keloids.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJul 30, 2024

Dual action antibiotic could make bacterial resistance nearly impossible

Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have developed a new dual-action antibiotic that targets two different cellular targets, making it nearly impossible for bacteria to evolve resistance. The antibiotic works by disrupting protein production and DNA structure, rendering random mutations ineffective.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJul 23, 2024

Fighting Antibiotic Resistance with Peptide Cocktails

Random antimicrobial peptide mixtures significantly reduce the risk of resistance evolution compared to single peptides. These findings support the development of new antimicrobial strategies to tackle growing antibiotic-resistant threats and safeguard public health.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 22, 2024
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Small animals acquire genes from bacteria that can produce antibiotics

Researchers found that rotifers acquire genes from bacteria and produce resistance weapons, such as antibiotics and antimicrobial agents. The team's findings suggest that rotifers could give important clues in the hunt for new antibiotics to treat human infections.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2024

E. coli variant may cause antimicrobial resistance in dogs, humans

Researchers have identified a mechanism in dogs that may render multiple antibiotic classes ineffective due to the loss of function of specific genes. This discovery opens up new avenues for therapies to treat both animals and humans, and establishes clinical infections in dogs as a surveillance approach for public health.

SourceCornell University·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateJul 16, 2024
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Mobile phone data helps track pathogen spread and evolution of superbugs

Researchers analyzed genomic data and human travel patterns to understand the spread and evolution of Streptococcus pneumoniae. The study found that a pneumococcal vaccine reduced antibiotic resistance but allowed non-targeted strains to gain a competitive advantage, suggesting short-lived protection.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateJul 3, 2024

Welch Foundation supports UTA’s drug delivery innovations

The University of Texas at Arlington's Junha Jeon is developing transition metal-free cross-coupling technologies using arynes to deliver medications safely and effectively. This project aims to improve the production of drugs, particularly for cancer treatment, by reducing impurities left behind by metals.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateJul 2, 2024
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Tax on antibiotics could help tackle threat of drug-resistance

A new study suggests taxing certain antibiotics could help manage the threat of antibiotic resistance in humans. By making narrow-spectrum drugs cheaper and broad-spectrum ones more expensive, GPs may be incentivized to prescribe narrower options.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalInternational Journal of Industrial Organization·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 1, 2024

Degradation of cell wall key in the spread of resistance

A study at Umeã University reveals that an enzyme breaks down the bacteria's protective outer layer, facilitating the transfer of genes for resistance to antibiotics. The researchers identified that only the SLT domain was active in PrgK, but it has an important role in regulation.

SourceUmea University·JournalmBio·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2024

Old drugs new tricks

Researchers have identified a potent and unique way to kill drug-resistant bacteria using a repurposed compound called LEI-800. The compound targets the bacterial enzyme DNA gyrase, which is essential for bacterial growth and has not been targeted by existing antibiotics.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2024
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How E. coli defends itself against antibiotics

When E. coli detects damage from antibiotic Ciprofloxacin, it sends out an SOS signal that alters cellular activity. The bacteria then mutate their DNA to repair the damage or adapt to resist the antibiotic. Researchers studied this process in detail using bioreactors and found all genes are activated simultaneously at the protein level.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2024

Wild chimpanzees seek out medicinal plants to treat illness and injuries

Chimpanzees have been observed seeking out specific plants with medicinal properties to treat their ailments, and further pharmacological testing has confirmed the presence of anti-inflammatory and antibiotic compounds. These findings highlight the importance of studying animal behavior in discovering new medicines.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateJun 20, 2024
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.

Looking to AI to solve antibiotic resistance

A team of researchers at Penn has developed an artificial intelligence tool that can mine the vast and largely unexplored biological data from over 10 million molecules to discover new candidates for antibiotics. The deep learning approach identified thousands of candidates in just a few hours, with many showing preclinical potential.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 11, 2024

Protein study could help researchers develop new antibiotics

A team of researchers has created a water-soluble version of the bacterial enzyme histidine kinase, which could be used in high-throughput screens to rapidly test potential drugs that target this enzyme. The new protein retains its natural functions despite being converted from a hydrophobic protein.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 10, 2024

Novel lipopeptide proves lethal against Staphylococcus areus

A novel antibacterial lipopeptide produced by Serratia marcescens has been shown to be highly effective in killing Staphylococcus aureus. The lipopeptide targets the cell membrane, causing lesions and cell death.

SourceStellenbosch University·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeObservational study·DateJun 6, 2024
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.

Preoperative antibiotic treatment in pediatric elbow fracture surgery is not necessary

Researchers found no difference in post-operative infection rates between patients treated with and without antibiotics prior to surgery. The study suggests that pre-surgical antibiotic treatment may not be necessary for pediatric elbow fractures.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 5, 2024

Unlocking the world around us for next-gen antibiotics

A global research team identified 863,498 promising antimicrobial peptides in marine and soil environments, as well as human and animal guts, to combat antimicrobial resistance. The findings come with a renewed focus on combatting the growing number of superbugs resistant to current drugs.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 5, 2024

Surgical site infection rates and other secondary outcomes decrease dramatically at multi-state hospital system through standardized, preoperative, surgical, antibiotic practices

A six-state hospital system reported significant decreases in surgical site infections, mortality, length of stay, and readmissions after implementing a comprehensive SSI prevention bundle. Orthopedic patients showed the most benefit, with a 32.8% reduction in SSI rates.

SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·DateJun 4, 2024

An anti-inflammatory curbs spread of fungi causing serious blood infections

Researchers at UC Davis Health discovered that mesalamine can replace good bacteria's work in fighting Candida albicans in the gut. The study found that mesalamine maintains a low oxygen environment that prevents fungal growth, reducing the risk of invasive candidiasis.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 4, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

The effect of combinations of antibiotics and natural products on the antimicrobial resistance of Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Researchers tested seven antibiotics in combination with various natural compounds, finding synergistic effects against multidrug-resistant bacteria. The study suggests combining antibiotics with plant extracts or phytochemicals could be a promising strategy to combat antimicrobial resistance.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Infectious Diseases Journal·DateMay 27, 2024
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.

Personalized phage therapy heals resistant wounds-squeaks makes full recovery

A new study demonstrates personalized phage therapy's effectiveness in treating antibiotic-resistant infections in animals, with a case of a cat healing from a persistent wound. The treatment combines a specific anti-Pseudomonas aeruginosa phage with ceftazidime, achieving full healing after 14 weeks.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalVeterinary Quarterly·TypeCase study·DateMay 27, 2024

The Lancet: 750,000 deaths linked to antimicrobial resistance could be prevented every year through available vaccines, water and sanitation, and infection control methods

A new Lancet Series estimates that over 750,000 deaths associated with antimicrobial resistance (AMR) could be prevented annually through improved prevention methods. AMR poses significant threats to newborns, elderly individuals, and those with chronic illnesses, causing nearly 5 million deaths globally each year.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 23, 2024
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.

New mechanisms behind antibiotic resistance

New study reveals two novel mechanisms that contribute to antibiotic resistance in bacteria, accelerating the growth of resistant bacteria during treatment. These mechanisms can occur independently and are linked to increased gene copy number variation and heteroresistance, complicating treatment for patients.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2024

Better medical record-keeping needed to fight antibiotic overuse, studies suggest

New studies by University of Michigan physicians highlight the need for improved diagnosis coding to target efforts to optimize antibiotic use and reduce risk. Inappropriate prescriptions occur in up to 35% of adults treated in emergency departments, with similar rates seen in clinics serving Medicaid patients.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAntimicrobial Stewardship & Healthcare Epidemiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 17, 2024

A second chance for new antibiotic agent

Researchers have successfully adapted a modified drug molecule to selectively bind to a protein in bacteria, rather than human cells, making it more effective against bacterial infections. This breakthrough could provide a new avenue for treating antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 16, 2024
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

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How E. coli get the power to cause urinary tract infections

Researchers identify critical genes and transport systems in E. coli that enable rapid growth despite sterile urine environment. ABC transporters appear crucial for infection, with inhibitors potentially slowing bacterial growth and complementing antibiotic efforts.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 3, 2024

Medical school scientist creates therapy to kill hypervirulent bacteria

A new therapy has been identified that can penetrate the slime protecting drug-resistant bacteria, allowing it to be killed by the body's immune system or antibiotics. The antimicrobial peptide, derived from cow peptides, targets sugar connections in the slime structure, damaging its integrity and allowing entry.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 1, 2024

Researchers discover key functions of therapeutically promising jumbo viruses

Scientists identify crucial protein PicA in jumbo phages that selectively transport proteins to replicate inside bacteria. This discovery sheds light on the complex biological makeup and mechanisms within these mysterious viruses.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 1, 2024
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Father’s gut microbes affect the next generation

Researchers found that altering a male mouse's gut microbiota increases the probability of low birth weight and premature death in their offspring. The study suggests a 'gut-germline axis' exists, connecting the gut microbiota to the germline and potentially influencing inherited traits.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 1, 2024

Ten-minute breath test to monitor antibiotic concentrations

Researchers developed a ten-minute breath test to monitor antibiotic concentrations, offering a non-invasive alternative to traditional blood tests. The study found that exhaled breath samples can detect specific metabolites associated with antibiotics, paving the way for potential therapeutic drug monitoring.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateApr 29, 2024
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.

Overuse of antibiotics in newborns with suspected sepsis

A Swedish study published in JAMA Network Open found that over one million newborns were given unnecessary antibiotics for suspected sepsis despite a reduction in sepsis cases. The researchers argue that the treatment burden is too high, suggesting potential to reduce antibiotic use.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateApr 26, 2024

Personalised “cocktails” of antibiotics, probiotics and prebiotics hold great promise in treating a common form of irritable bowel syndrome, pilot study finds

A pilot study found that targeted gut-microbiota therapy improved symptoms in almost all patients with post-infection IBS, with 38.5% achieving total remission. The treatment involved a personalised blend of antibiotics, probiotics, and prebiotics tailored to each patient's unique microbiome.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateApr 26, 2024

Experts developing immune-enhancing therapies to target tuberculosis

New therapies aim to strengthen the body's immune responses and restore antimicrobial functions to combat TB. Researchers have identified small molecule compounds that reduce Mtb growth inside immune cells by up to 50-75%, suggesting a potential complement to standard therapy.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateApr 26, 2024
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.

German study finds antibiotic use in patients hospitalised with COVID-19 appears to have no beneficial effect on clinical outcomes

A German study of over 1,300 hospitalised adults with moderate COVID-19 found that antibiotic treatment was associated with a five times greater likelihood of clinical deterioration. The researchers highlight the need for improved antibiotic stewardship interventions and rational use of antibiotics during viral pandemics.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateApr 25, 2024

Antimicrobial-resistant hospital infections remain at least 12% above pre-pandemic levels, major US study finds

A recent US study found that hospital-acquired antimicrobial-resistant infections increased by 32% during the COVID-19 pandemic and still exceed pre-pandemic levels. The study highlights the urgent need for solutions to address difficult-to-treat gram-negative infections, which are becoming increasingly resistant to antibiotics.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateApr 25, 2024

Treatment for deadly superbug C. diff may be weakening

Clinical trials show decreased effectiveness of vancomycin in treating C. diff infection, with reduced cure rates and lower sustained clinical responses associated with antimicrobial resistance. The finding poses a significant concern for the management of C. diff infection, with only two recommended antibiotics available.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateApr 25, 2024

Major genetic meta-analysis reveals how antibiotic resistance in babies varies according to mode of birth, prematurity, and where they live

A recent study found that infants born via C-section have more antibiotic-resistant genes, while antibiotic use and prematurity fuel resistance. Infants from Africa had more resistant genes than those from Europe. Probiotics may help reduce the spread of antibiotic resistance in infants by targeting their gut microbiome.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateApr 24, 2024
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.

ACP issues clinical recommendations for newer diabetes treatments

The American College of Physicians recommends adding SGLT-2 and GLP-1 agonists to metformin in adults with Type 2 diabetes for improved cardiovascular outcomes. The guidelines prioritize shared decision-making, considering individual patient characteristics and values.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateApr 19, 2024
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.

Solving antibiotic and pesticide resistance with infectious worms

A researcher will study how plants defend themselves against nematode infections, which could lead to novel drugs or antibiotics for humans and livestock. The project aims to increase food security in Africa and Asia by understanding the molecular mechanisms behind plant resistance.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateApr 18, 2024

New class of antimicrobials discovered in soil bacteria

Researchers have identified a novel class of antimicrobial toxins, dubbed umbrella toxins, produced by soil bacteria Streptomyces. These toxins are large protein complexes that specifically target other Streptomyces species, making them a promising lead in the fight against antibiotic resistance.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 17, 2024