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Using AI, MIT researchers identify a new class of antibiotic candidates

Researchers used deep learning models to identify compounds with strong antimicrobial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The models were trained on expanded datasets and an algorithm that allows for explainable predictions, enabling the discovery of potent antibiotics with minimal human toxicity.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateDec 20, 2023
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.

Catalyzing drug discovery with explainable deep learning

A team of researchers identified a new structural class of antibiotics using an AI-powered platform built around explainable deep learning. The discovery shows potential to address antibiotic resistance, with the newly discovered antibiotics showing potent activity against multidrug-resistant pathogens.

SourceIntegrated Biosciences·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2023

First comprehensive medical guideline on management of pouchitis released

The AGA releases its first comprehensive evidence-based guideline for managing pouchitis, a complication of ulcerative colitis surgery. The guideline recommends treatment with antibiotics and multi-strain probiotics to prevent recurrent pouchitis.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGastroenterology·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 19, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists reveal the molecular structure of a complex bacteriophage

Researchers have solved the molecular structure of a complete tailed virus with a flexible tail at unprecedented detail. This discovery has significant implications for phage therapies and the development of alternative treatments to antibiotics.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 15, 2023

New method paves the way for new antibiotics

Researchers at NTNU have developed a new method to study how bacterial signaling proteins react to treatment, paving the way for effective killing of MRSA. The method has shown a combination of two substances kills MRSA more effectively than when used separately.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2023

Researchers develop potential vaccine against antibiotic-resistant enterococci

Scientists have created a vaccine candidate against antibiotic-resistant Enterococcus faecium using membrane vesicles, which stimulate the immune system and are stable and non-infectious. The new vaccine showed promising results in killing resistant bacteria, including those resistant to Vancomycin.

SourceUiT The Arctic University of Norway·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateDec 12, 2023
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.

Brazilians create sensor to monitor levels of widely used antibiotic in water and food

Researchers at the Center for Development of Functional Materials created a sensor to monitor metronidazole levels in organisms and the environment. The sensor, combining magnetic fluorescent nanoparticles, showed good sensitivity and practical advantages, enabling real-time analysis and ease of handling.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Molecular Liquids·DateDec 7, 2023

Photoswitchable bactericide

Researchers have developed a photoswitchable bactericide that can target either Gram-positive or Gram-negative bacteria using a light-driven 'switch'. The nanomaterial was shown to be effective in healing MRSA-infected wounds in mice models, offering a potential new solution to combat antibiotic-resistant infections.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 5, 2023

Taking antibiotics back in time

A team of researchers successfully synthesized a 1.5-million-year-old antibiotic called paleomycin, which displays potent properties against human pathogens. By tracing the evolutionary path of glycopeptide antibiotics, the team gained insights into the development of new drugs and uncovered a common precursor molecule.

SourceCluster of Excellence “Controlling Microbes to Fight Infections” (CMFI)·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 30, 2023

New method identifies bacteria more easily

Researchers at Norwegian University of Science and Technology have developed a simple tool to identify all genetic material in bacteria. This allows for quicker detection of pathogens, enabling informed decisions on antibiotic use.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2023

RNA trickery disarms the antiviral CRISPR defenses of bacteria

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen discovered that phages use small RNAs to disarm bacterial CRISPR-Cas immune systems, making them vulnerable to infection. This finding has significant implications for phage therapy and could lead to more specific and controlled CRISPR-Cas treatments.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature·DateNov 24, 2023
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.

Making sense of bacterial Babel

The study analyzed 170 known bacterial languages, grouping them into clusters based on molecular structure. Bacteria can understand related languages, but not those with vastly different languages. This understanding will aid in refining treatment approaches and developing biotechnology applications.

SourceAalto University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateNov 23, 2023

Mitochondria-targeting antibiotics extend lifespan in C. elegans

Researchers found that treating C. elegans with mitochondrial inhibitors extended their lifespan, improved pharyngeal muscle contraction, reduced lipofuscin content, and decreased energy consumption. The study suggests that these drugs could abrogate aging and extend human lifespan, offering a potential therapeutic approach.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2023

Chlorine disinfectant is no more effective than water at killing off hospital superbug

A new study by the University of Plymouth reveals that chlorine disinfectants used in hospitals are no more effective at killing off hospital superbugs than water. The research highlights the need for alternative strategies to tackle Clostridioides difficile, which causes diarrhoea, colitis and other bowel complications globally.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalMicrobiology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 2023

Feeding dogs raw meat increases the risk of antibiotic-resistant E. coli

A recent study published in One Health found that feeding dogs raw meat significantly increases the risk of excreting antibiotic-resistant E. coli, a bacteria that can cause life-threatening infections. The researchers emphasized the importance of proper hygiene and sourcing high-quality meat to reduce this risk.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalOne Health·TypeObservational study·DateNov 20, 2023
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.

Cancer therapy shows promise against tuberculosis

Scientists at Texas Biomedical Research Institute found a promising cancer therapy also effectively reduces TB growth, even for drug-resistant bacteria. The therapy combines MCL-1 and BCL-2 inhibitors with antibiotics to control TB up to 98%.

SourceTexas Biomedical Research Institute·JournalBiomedicine & Pharmacotherapy·DateNov 16, 2023

COVID-19 showed the importance of genomic surveillance – now we need it to help fight antimicrobial resistance, say researchers

Genomic surveillance proved vital in understanding COVID-19 evolution and spread. Researchers now seek its application in fighting antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a major global challenge. AMR causes substantial sickness and death worldwide, with estimates suggesting it could kill up to 10 million people annually by 2050.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Lancet Microbe·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 14, 2023
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.

Spread of drug resistant bacteria linked to patient hand contamination and antibiotic use within nursing homes

A U-M study links increased physical independence, gut microbiome disrupting antibiotics, and hand contamination to vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) environmental contamination in nursing homes. The study suggests that reducing antibiotic use and improving hand hygiene could control VRE spread.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe Lancet Healthy Longevity·DateNov 10, 2023

New antifungal molecule kills fungi without toxicity in human cells, mice

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new antifungal molecule that targets fungal cells without harming human kidney cells or other tissues. The molecule, dubbed AM-2-19, has shown significant efficacy against various fungal infections in vitro and in vivo studies.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2023

Education key to curbing antimicrobial resistance in cats

Better education for cat owners and veterinarians is key to reducing antimicrobial use, which contributes to rising resistance. The study's findings highlight the need for faster, cheaper diagnostic testing and better training of pet owners and vets.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·DateNov 7, 2023
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Antibiotic prescribing in outpatient telemedicine

A new report highlights the need for improved antibiotic stewardship in outpatient telemedicine settings, where up to 28% of antibiotics are prescribed unnecessarily. The study's findings suggest that incorporating CDC core elements can optimize antibiotic use and reduce adverse events.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalTelemedicine and e-Health·TypeCase study·DateNov 6, 2023

New antibodies neutralize resistant bacteria

Researchers have discovered highly effective antibodies against P. aeruginosa that can block its type III secretion system and are effective against highly resistant bacteria. These 'pathoblockers' offer a potential therapeutic approach for treating acute and chronic infections with multi-resistant pathogens.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 2023
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Antibiotics for common childhood infections no longer effective

A study led by the University of Sydney found that many antibiotics for childhood infections have less than 50% effectiveness, leading to thousands of unnecessary deaths globally. The World Health Organization has declared antimicrobial resistance a top public health threat, emphasizing the urgent need for updated guidelines.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Southeast Asia·DateOct 31, 2023

Umbilical venous catheterization and bloodstream infection among preterm infants

A national-level study found that the median UVC dwell time was 7 days, and CLABSI incidence did not differ significantly between 0-7 days and 7-15 days. The study also highlighted high rates of antibiotic exposure without reduction in CLABSI rates, emphasizing the need for nuanced approaches to antibiotic administration.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalPediatric Investigation·TypeObservational study·DateOct 31, 2023

The term “antimicrobial resistance” has little meaning to the public and should be renamed

A study by Dr Eva Krockow found that existing terms for antimicrobial resistance, such as 'antimicrobial resistance' and 'AMR', are not taken seriously enough, failing to evoke risk perceptions. The researchers suggest renaming the term to a more memorable one that can effectively convey the severity of the issue.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalCommunications Medicine·TypeNews article·DateOct 26, 2023
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.

Fighting antimicrobial resistance with new drug combinations

EMBL researchers have systematically profiled over 10,000 drug combinations for their effectiveness against common multidrug-resistant bacteria. The team identified over a thousand interactions, including both synergies and antagonisms, with distinct effects on Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Microbiology·DateOct 18, 2023

Multi-drug resistant strain of E.coli battles bacteria in healthy gut

A new study reveals a multi-drug resistant strain of E.coli, MDR ST131, can outcompete and displace other strains in the human gut. The research provides evidence that certain types of E.coli are more prone to developing antibiotic resistance, posing significant health risks.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 17, 2023
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.

ICU antibiotics may be safe for kidneys

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center found that cefepime did not significantly increase the risk of kidney failure compared to piperacillin/tazobactam in critically ill patients. However, cefepime was associated with more neurological dysfunction and shorter survival rates.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateOct 16, 2023

NIH provides $1.2 million for ambitious effort to battle antibiotic resistance

Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System are developing computer models to better understand the cellular processes and gene activity of multi-drug resistant bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The goal is to identify vulnerabilities in these bacteria and advance the development of new treatments.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·DateOct 10, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Tracking the bacteria behind life-threatening sepsis in premature babies

A study by Professor Mark Webber and his team found that the NRCS-A strain of Staphylococcus capitis is commonly carried on the skin and in the gut of uninfected neonatal babies, making transmission between babies within NICUs likely. The bacteria's unique genes allow it to survive in the gut, making cleaning the skin ineffective.

SourceMicrobiology Society·JournalMicrobial Genomics·DateOct 4, 2023

CARB-X is funding a University of Melbourne research team to develop an oral therapeutic to treat drug-resistant community-acquired bacterial pneumonia

A University of Melbourne research team is developing an oral therapeutic to restore the activity of common antibiotics used to treat community-acquired bacterial pneumonia. The project aims to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria and reduce healthcare costs, with potential applications in low- and middle-income countries.

SourceThe Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity·DateOct 3, 2023

Wearable sensor to monitor ‘last line of defense’ antibiotic

Researchers have developed a wearable sensor patch capable of continuously monitoring vancomycin levels, a critical antibiotic used to treat severe bacterial infections. The sensor system detects changes in vancomycin concentration using aptamers and gold wires, providing real-time measurements for effective treatment.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 3, 2023
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.

Scientists identify evolutionary gateway helping pneumonia bacteria become resistant to antibiotics

Researchers at the University of Sheffield have discovered a genetic scar that enables pneumonia-causing bacteria to become resistant to antibiotics. The study found that mutations in the pde1 gene act as an evolutionary gateway for this resistance, threatening patient treatment and highlighting the need for control measures.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 2, 2023

Genes fuelling antibiotic resistance in Yemen cholera outbreak uncovered

Researchers have discovered a new plasmid in epidemic Vibrio cholerae samples that introduces genes encoding resistance to multiple antibiotics. The finding underscores the importance of genomic surveillance and suggests that the strain's stability poses a concerning factor for future outbreaks.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 29, 2023
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.

Researchers pioneer safe chemotherapy methods for treating bacterial infections

Researchers at Linköping University develop a new method to deliver strong compounds specifically to bacteria, allowing for efficient and safe treatment of infections. The TOUCAN strategy uses nucleases to target bacterial DNA, reducing side effects associated with current antibiotics.

SourceLinköping University·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2023

Antibiotics can help some bacteria survive for longer

Researchers at the University of Exeter found that certain antibiotics can alleviate stress and help prevent bacterial decline, allowing more bacteria to survive longer. The study, published in PNAS, suggests that these drugs can promote bacterial longevity and growth efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2023

Study finds two antibiotics for children with sinusitis equally effective, but one had fewer side effects

Researchers found that patients prescribed amoxicillin-clavulanate had higher rates of gastrointestinal symptoms and yeast infections than those prescribed amoxicillin. The study showed no difference in treatment failure rates between the two antibiotics, with treatment failure occurring in less than 2% of cases.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA·TypeObservational study·DateSep 19, 2023

Highlights from the journal CHEST®, September 2023

The September issue of the CHEST journal features research on long COVID, including a review on exercise pathophysiology in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Postacute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2. Original studies also explore asthma treatment with albuterol-budesonide inhalers and sleep therapy using oronasal masks.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·Journalthe journal CHEST·DateSep 18, 2023

Syphilis transmission networks and antimicrobial resistance in England uncovered using genomics

Researchers use genomic surveillance to identify distinct sexual networks for syphilis transmission in England, highlighting the presence of drug resistance. The study reveals information beyond standard epidemiological surveillance data, aiding public health strategies to break transmission chains.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalThe Lancet Microbe·TypeObservational study·DateSep 15, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Breakthrough in β-lactam synthesis using nickel catalysts

Researchers have made a significant advancement in the synthesis of β-lactam scaffolds, structural components frequently found in essential antibiotics. The breakthrough uses nickel catalysts to overcome challenges in β-lactam synthesis, enabling more efficient and simplified production of high-value materials.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 24, 2023

Researchers decode new antibiotic

Researchers from the University of Bonn and international partners have discovered a new antibiotic called clovibactin that effectively attacks the cell wall of bacteria, including multi-resistant 'superbugs'. The compound has been shown to target bacterial cell wall components with high specificity, minimizing resistance development.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Using big data on livestock farms could improve antimicrobial resistance surveillance

A new study reveals that using big data and machine learning can improve antimicrobial resistance surveillance in livestock production. The research found correlations between environmental variables, microbial communities, and antimicrobial resistance, suggesting multiple routes for improving surveillance.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalNature Food·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 18, 2023

For a new generation of antibiotics, scientists are bringing extinct molecules back to life – and discovering the hidden genetics of immunity along the way

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science have discovered dozens of small protein sequences with antibiotic qualities in extinct organisms like Neanderthals and Denisovans. They then synthesized these molecules using artificial intelligence and tested their efficacy against pathogens.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateAug 16, 2023

Accelerating discovery in artificial intelligence for science

The researcher aims to bridge completeness, efficiency, and applications in 3D graphs to solve problems in physics, fluid dynamics, and biotechnology. Geometric graphs can represent molecules, proteins, and drugs, enabling the prediction of their behavior and properties.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateAug 16, 2023
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.

Mechanism underlying bacterial resistance to the antibiotic albicidin revealed

A new study reveals that bacterial resistance to albicidin is caused by an increase in the number of copies of a specific gene, leading to up to a 1,000-fold increase in resistance. This discovery highlights the growing threat of antibiotic resistance and underscores the need for effective strategies to combat it.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 10, 2023