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New research provides compelling evidence of the connection between AMR surgical-site infections and arthropods

A new study by Oxford academics found that approximately 20% of flies and cockroaches carry carbapenem resistance, while 70-80% carry extended spectrum cephalosporin resistance. Climate change could lead to a doubling of insect populations and an increase in the global spread of antibiotic resistance.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 30, 2021

Defence system protects African salmonella from attack by viruses

Researchers have identified a new prophage-mediated defence system in Salmonella Typhimurium ST313 called BstA, which efficiently suppresses phage attacks. This discovery opens up a new avenue of research and could potentially lead to the development of new biotechnologies.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2021

New nanomaterial for treatment of skin infections

Researchers at IOCB Prague have developed a novel antibacterial material called NANO-LPPO that can prevent infection and facilitate treatment of skin wounds. The material combines lipophosphonoxins with a nonwoven nanotextile, which releases active substances in response to bacterial presence.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 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.

Overcoming challenges to global child and adolescent health

A special issue of PLOS Medicine explores the social determinants of child and adolescent health, including poverty, pollution, and violence. The studies focus on the intersection of child health and challenging environments, highlighting urgent redirective strategies to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 28, 2021

Scientists uncover pathogen’s similar impact on two very different crops

Researchers investigate Pseudomonas cannabina pv. alisalensis (Pcal) interaction with cabbage and oats, discovering coronatine (COR) suppresses salicylic acid to aid pathogen growth. This finding opens doors to new disease control strategies.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 20, 2021

Antimicrobial coating for orthopedic implants prevents dangerous infections

Researchers at Duke University developed an antibiotic coating that can be applied to orthopedic implants before surgery, eliminating the risk of infection. The coating, made from two polymers and an antibiotic, prevents bacterial colonization and can be personalized for individual patients.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 17, 2021

Ground-breaking bacteria-killing viruses unite with antibiotics to fight devastating antibiotic-resistant bacteria

Scientists have developed a new therapy that combines bacteriophages with antibiotics to treat antibiotic-resistant infections, specifically targeting Mycobacterium abscessus. The treatment, using the bacteriophage 'Muddy', showed significant improvement in survival rates and severity of infections when paired with rifabutin, demonstra...

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalDisease Models & Mechanisms·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021
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.

Researchers explore promising treatment for MRSA ‘superbug’

A new study from Cornell University has found that the antimicrobial properties of certain stem cell proteins can effectively reduce the viability of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in skin wounds. The treatment also stimulates the surrounding skin cells to build up a defense against the bacterial invader.

SourceCornell University·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateSep 16, 2021

Researchers explore promising new stem cell treatment for MRSA superbug

A study found that treating wounds with mesenchymal stromal cell secretions significantly reduced MRSA viability and stimulated the surrounding skin cells to build a defense. The treatment has potential as an alternative to antibiotics, reducing antibiotic resistance in both veterinary and human medicine.

SourceAlphaMed Press·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Caught in a web: study reveals that immune cells cooperate to trap and kill bacteria

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have identified a new antibacterial mechanism where immune cells cooperate to capture and 'eat' bacteria. This cooperation enhances the killing power of macrophages, increasing phagocytosis of bacterial pathogens, including antibiotic-resistant staph

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 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.

Natural killer cells coordinate wound healing

Researchers discovered that natural killer cells play a crucial role in wound healing by accelerating blood vessel growth. However, this process increases the risk of bacterial infections. The study suggests harnessing killer cells to fight antibiotic-resistant bacteria and finding a balance between wound healing and immune defense.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 2021

Safeguarding clean water for spaceflight missions

A team of researchers characterized different bacterial populations isolated from the International Space Station's potable water system, exploring their functional properties and long-term interactions. The study aimed to improve microbial risk assessments for human-built environments in space and on Earth.

SourceArizona State University·Journalnpj Biofilms and Microbiomes·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 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.

A picture of MRSA in the PALOP Countries

A whole genome analysis of a Staphylococcus aureus collection recovered from Cape Verde reveals high genetic variability among isolates. The study identifies three primary genetic clusters associated with lineages ST152, ST15, and ST5, commonly found in S. aureus infections worldwide.

SourceInstituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier da Universidade NOVA de Lisboa ITQB NOVA·JournalJournal of Global Antimicrobial Resistance·DateSep 6, 2021

Setting the teeth on edge: Identifying the risk factors for tooth loss

A study published in International Journal of Environment and Public Health Research reveals that oral bacteria, specifically P. gingivalis and Lactobacillaceae families, are associated with periodontitis. Genetic differences among hosts contribute to susceptibility to pathogens, but the oral microbiome plays a more significant role in...

SourceOkayama University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 2, 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.

Alarming: Resistances against a new active-substance combination detectable prior to use in Germany

Scientists detect early resistances to new antibiotic combination in Germany, limiting its potential as a treatment option for carbapenem-resistant pathogens. The study highlights the importance of genome-based surveillance for early detection of new resistance developments and emerging pathogens.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 2021

High virus count in the lungs drives COVID-19 deaths

A new study suggests that COVID-19 deaths are driven by a buildup of coronavirus in the lungs. Researchers found that people who died from COVID-19 had 10 times more virus in their lower airways than those who survived.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Microbiology·DateAug 31, 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.

Citrus canker bacterium can be an ally in biorenewables manufacturing

A study reveals the biological process used by Xanthomonas to weaken plants' defense systems and discovers a novel class of enzymes called CE20 that can assist infection. This discovery contributes to developing strategies to combat citrus canker and obtaining advanced sugars from agroindustrial waste.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 30, 2021

Wash your hands for 20 seconds: Physics shows why

A physics model simulates hand-washing to estimate the time scales on which particles like viruses and bacteria are removed from hands. The study finds that vigorous movement for about 20 seconds is necessary to dislodge these particles, consistent with traditional guidelines.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateAug 17, 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.

Graphene binds drugs which kill bacteria on medical implants

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a method to prevent bacterial infections on medical implants by covering graphene with bactericidal molecules, which are released in a controlled manner. The new material has shown promising properties and paves the way for more effective antibacterial protection.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 9, 2021

‘Bacterial arch-enemy’ paves the way for new gene editing

Researchers have mapped the structure of CRISPR-Cas12j3 from bacteriophages, a discovery that reveals how it works and solves packaging problems for genome editing. The new system has vast potential for precise genome editing with improved efficiencies and alternative targeting mechanisms.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 2021

New study finds frequent shedding of infectious pathogens in healthcare settings outside patient rooms

A six-month observational study found significant MRSA shedding during outpatient visits and appointments, with 38.5% of carriers shedding MRSA to the environment. The presence of a culture-positive wound was the only factor significantly associated with shedding.

SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·TypeObservational study·DateAug 5, 2021

New PIDS-IDSA guideline on bone infections in children addresses key diagnostic and treatment questions

The new guideline recommends invasive diagnostic tests but acknowledges their potential infeasibility, instead focusing on clinical improvement to transition to oral therapy. It provides thoughtfully reasoned recommendations based on current evidence to help clinicians identify and manage bone infections.

SourcePediatric Infectious Diseases Society·JournalJournal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 5, 2021

CHOP researchers develop coating for endotracheal tubes that releases antimicrobial peptides

Researchers created a polymer coating that releases Lasioglossin-III, an AMP with broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, targeting specific infectious bacteria and preventing airway complications. The coating demonstrated significant antibacterial activity and prevented bacterial adherence to the tube.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalThe Laryngoscope·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 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.

Tübingen research team develops new strategy against sepsis

Researchers find that administering sodium acetate enhances the body's immune response to staphylococcal infections, improving outcomes in mouse models of sepsis. Acetate activates the GPR43 receptor on neutrophils, triggering a targeted and effective immune response.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 3, 2021

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia researchers identify approach for potential nontypeable haemophilus influenzae vaccine

Researchers identified two proteins, HMW1 and HMW2, that stimulate protective immunity against diverse NTHi strains. Immunization with these proteins provides protection against bacterial colonization by other strains, highlighting the vaccine potential for a nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae vaccine.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2021

Preoperative screening urinalysis is widely used—but usually unnecessary, study finds

A new study by researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital found that preoperative urinalysis screening for asymptomatic patients undergoing surgery has little or no benefit. However, the test may lead to unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions and exposure to potential harms, including Clostridium difficile infection.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 2, 2021

Organoid bladders reveal secrets of UTIs

Researchers developed two bladder models to study UTIs in a controlled way. Organoid bladders recreated the 3D architecture of the bladder epithelium, while a bladder-on-a-chip model incorporated physiological stimuli and an interface with the vasculature.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·DateJul 30, 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.

Geographic differences in gut microbiota boost immunity

Research reveals significant differences in gut microbiomes worldwide, impacting immune responses and susceptibility to infections. The study found that microbial composition alone can impact immune resilience, with Guatemala's microbiome proving most resistant.

SourceCornell University·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 28, 2021

Cell-analysis technique could combat tuberculosis

Researchers developed a cutting-edge method to analyze how individual immune cells respond to Mtb, the bacteria that cause tuberculosis. The study found an almost perfect correlation between the fitness status of the bacterium and the transcriptional profile in the host cell.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJul 22, 2021

New insights into uncontrolled inflammation in COVID-19 patients

Researchers discovered how protective molecules like SPM are altered in COVID-19 patients, suggesting that increasing these molecules could limit inflammation and disease severity. The study also found that dexamethasone increased SPM production, improving white blood cell function and reducing inflammation.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalCirculation Research·DateJul 22, 2021

How does the structure of cytolysins influence their activity?

The study reveals that the structure of cytolysin subunits is crucial for their activity, with macrocycles playing a key role in stabilizing the molecule. The researchers also identified a hinge region important for the subunit's shape and membrane penetration capabilities.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalACS Infectious Diseases·DateJul 21, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Researchers surprised to find bacterial parasites behind rise of 'super bugs'

Phages play a key role in initiating rapid bacterial evolution and the emergence of treatment-resistant superbugs, according to new research from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. The study reveals that phages interact with bacteria and facilitate adaptation, allowing resistant strains to gain an evolutionary advantage.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 16, 2021

A new avenue for fighting drug-resistant bacteria

Targeting an RNA sequence in pathogenic bacteria could make them more sensitive to antibiotics, offering a new avenue for treating drug-resistant bacteria. The study found that eliminating this regulatory RNA sequence had an impact on urinary tract infections related to E. coli.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJul 15, 2021

Bacteria are key to vaginal health, UArizona health sciences researchers say

Researchers found that Veillonellaceae family members contribute to disease by altering inflammation and metabolism in the cervicovaginal region. The study also identified three specific bacteria species - V. atypica, V. montpellierensis, and M. micronuciformis - that increase inflammation and promote cell death.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·Journalnpj Biofilms and Microbiomes·DateJul 13, 2021
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.

Progress towards new treatments for tuberculosis

Researchers have discovered a new approach to treating tuberculosis by boosting the body's immune system and targeting cell death pathways. The study found that using preclinical models, infected cells can be killed by drugs called IAP inhibitors, significantly reducing disease severity.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalImmunity·DateJul 12, 2021

High-tech toilets could spread antibiotic-resistant superbugs in hospitals, Japanese study suggests

Researchers found that electric toilet water-jet nozzles can harbor multidrug-resistant bacteria, which can be transmitted to patients with weakened immune systems. The study highlights the need for modified hand hygiene practices and toilet disinfection protocols in hospitals to prevent superbug transmission.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateJul 11, 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.

Common prescription drugs (not themselves antibiotics) may increase risk of developing antibiotic resistance

Research suggests that common prescription drugs like proton pump inhibitors, beta-blockers, and antimetabolites can increase the risk of developing antibiotic-resistant infections. These non-antibiotic medications are commonly used to treat various conditions but can also contribute to drug resistance.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateJul 9, 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.

First genetic evidence from medieval plague victims suggests Black Death reached Southern Italy

Researchers have discovered Yersinia pestis infection in two medieval graves in Southern Italy, providing the first genetic evidence of the Black Death's arrival in the region. The analysis of ancient DNA from the teeth of the victims confirms that they died from plague or other infectious diseases during the second pandemic.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateJul 8, 2021

Mucus and mucins may become the medicine of the future

Scientists have found a way to artificially produce healthy mucus, which could lead to new medical treatments and therapies. The discovery is particularly promising for the treatment of diseases related to intestinal flora, such as infections and eye infections.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 7, 2021

Prevalence of COVID-19 among hospitalized infants varies with levels of community transmission

A new study found that COVID-19 infection rates among infants hospitalized for potential serious bacterial infections were higher during periods of high community transmission, but lower when transmission was low. The study also found a relatively low incidence of other respiratory viruses in this age group.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJun 30, 2021
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.

This 5,000-year-old man had the earliest known strain of plague

Scientists discovered the oldest strain of Yersinia pestis in a 20- to 30-year-old man from 5,000 years ago. The ancient bacteria was less contagious and deadly than its medieval version, transmitted primarily through animal bites. This finding challenges long-held theories on the development of human civilization in Europe and Asia.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 29, 2021

To adsorb or to do not adsorb? That is the question

Researchers from the Institute of Physical Chemistry found that phage potency is affected by container material, leading to reduced efficacy. The study highlights the importance of using specific containers with controlled surface properties to maintain phage concentration.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 29, 2021