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Bacteria discreetly dwelling in throat revealed to be primary source of Strep A transmission

Research reveals that asymptomatic throat carriage of Streptococcus pyogenes is the primary source of Group A Streptococcus (GAS) infections in high-risk communities. This discovery challenges previous understanding of GAS transmission and has significant implications for public health approaches, vaccine development, and future research.

SourceThe Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity·JournalThe Lancet Microbe·TypeObservational study·DateJul 17, 2023

New algorithm for quicker detection of antibiotic resistances

Researchers have developed a new method to detect antibiotic resistances in Proteus mirabilis, enabling faster identification of potentially resistant strains. The algorithm uses cutting-edge molecular biology methods and can determine whether a bacterial strain is susceptible to carbapenem antibiotics.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalClinical Microbiology and Infection·DateJul 13, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Gut bacteria linked to fatty deposits in heart arteries

Researchers found a strong association between certain gut bacteria and coronary atherosclerotic plaques, which can lead to heart attacks. The study analyzed gut bacteria and cardiac imaging data from over 8,900 participants and identified Streptococcus species as key players.

SourceUppsala University·JournalCirculation·TypeObservational study·DateJul 12, 2023

Historical medicine suggests a new way to use modern treatments

Researchers discovered that combining honey and vinegar can effectively kill bacteria in biofilms, making it a potential treatment for persistent infections. The study found that using both honey and acetic acid was more effective than using either substance alone.

SourceMicrobiology Society·JournalMicrobiology·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 12, 2023

Bacterium associated with disease found in NC chiggers

Researchers detected Orientia bacteria in chiggers at high frequency in North Carolina recreational parks. The bacterium causes a disease similar to Rocky Mountain spotted fever, which can be fatal if left untreated.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateJul 12, 2023

Peritoneal dialysis: New treatment option against infections

Researchers identified a new drug treatment option for peritonitis in patients on peritoneal dialysis, showing that a low dosage of ceftazidime and avibactam is sufficient to treat the infection. The study's findings could help gain control over peritonitis in patients with difficult-to-treat germs.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalClinical Microbiology and Infection·DateJul 5, 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.

A single molecule upsets symbiosis

A recent study has shown that the mutual symbiosis between bacteria and fungi can be fragile, as a specific protein maintains the balance. When this protein is absent, the bacteria are trapped within fungal hyphae and die.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute -·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 5, 2023

Pathogenic bacteria use a sugar in the intestinal mucus layer to infect the gut, study shows

A new study reveals that pathogenic bacteria fuel their growth by consuming sialic acid, a key component of the protective intestinal mucus layer. The findings suggest a potential treatment target for intestinal bacterial infections and chronic diseases linked to gut bacteria, including IBD and celiac disease.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJul 3, 2023

Vaginal suppository containing lactobacilli can prevent recurrent cystitis in women

A study published in Frontiers in Microbiology found that administering vaginal suppositories with Lactobacillus crispatus can restore a healthy balance of vaginal microbiota and prevent recurrent cystitis. The researchers discovered that postmenopausal women with RC had significantly different bacterial communities compared to those w...

SourceOkayama University·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·TypeObservational study·DateJul 3, 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.

Alarming antibiotic resistance discovered in war-torn Ukraine

Researchers discovered high levels of antibiotic resistance among war-wounded patients in Ukrainian hospitals, with nearly 10% resistant to colistin. The study highlights the challenges posed by resistant bacteria in times of war, particularly the highly resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteria.

SourceLund University·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateJun 29, 2023

HKUMed invents a novel microneedle array embedded with ultrasound-triggered antibacterial nanoparticles enabling a breakthrough treatment for skin infection

Researchers at HKUMed have developed a novel microneedle patch that uses ultrasound-responsive antibacterial nanoparticles to effectively treat skin infections caused by P. acnes bacteria. The treatment promotes pain-free delivery and facilitates skin repair, offering a non-antibiotic approach for acne and other skin conditions.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 28, 2023

Updated guidance shows how hospitals should protect patients from resistant infections

The updated guidance emphasizes the importance of antimicrobial stewardship to reduce MRSA infection rates. It also recommends surveillance for asymptomatic carriers and decolonization for those colonized with MRSA. Effective hand hygiene and cleaning practices remain crucial in preventing MRSA transmission.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 27, 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.

All the immunity, none of the symptoms

Researchers found that an iron-rich diet can prevent deadly symptoms in mice during active infection, while a functional adaptive immune system is required for immunity against future infections. The study paves the way for the development of new vaccines that could promote immunity for those with diarrheal diseases.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 23, 2023

Should I stay or should I go: Hospital germ’s dual strategy

Researchers at the University of Basel have discovered that Pseudomonas aeruginosa uses a 'division-of-labor' strategy to colonize surfaces and spread through the body. This dual strategy allows the bacteria to increase its surface colonization success and resist antibiotic treatments.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJun 20, 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.

New anti-coagulants may help treat sepsis and COVID-19

Scientists have discovered that dimethylfumarate can block blood clotting during infection, potentially treating life-threatening DIC and severe COVID-19. The mechanism involves blocking interferon production, which promotes tissue factor releases.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 18, 2023

Scientists discover small RNA that regulates bacterial infection

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have discovered a gene that drives the switch between chronic and acute P. aeruginosa infections. The gene encodes a small RNA called SicX, which plays a vital role in bacterial respiration under low oxygen conditions.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2023

“Choosing Wisely” interventions can reduce antibiotic overuse at safety-net hospitals, UCLA-led research suggests

A statewide pay-for-performance intervention based on Choosing Wisely reduced rates of inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions for acute respiratory tract infections from 43% to 25%. This reduction occurred without measurable harms at safety-net hospitals serving disadvantaged patients.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalThe American Journal of Managed Care·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 12, 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.

Study identifies a protein that could be a target for a vaccine against spotted fever

Researchers at the University of São Paulo identified a protein in Amblyomma ticks essential to their survival while feeding, making it a promising target for developing a vaccine. The study found that silencing gene expression of an inhibitor of apoptosis protein reduced bacterial proliferation and made ticks more resistant to infection.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalParasites & Vectors·DateJun 7, 2023

How the gut microbiome responds to antibiotics

Researchers investigated how gut bacteria respond to repeated antibiotic disruptions, finding that they evolve antibiotic-resistant variants and adapt through slowing of cell growth. The study reveals the complex response of the microbiome to antibiotics, including ecological effects and induction of prophages.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023

SMART researchers discover novel combination therapy to counter antibiotic-resistant Mycobacterium abscessus infections

SMART researchers have discovered a novel combination therapy using rifaximin and clarithromycin to treat antibiotic-resistant Mycobacterium abscessus infections. The study found that rifaximin potentiates clarithromycin against M. abscessus, increasing its sensitivity and effectiveness in killing the bacteria.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalJAC-Antimicrobial Resistance·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023

Previously unknown antibiotic resistance widespread among bacteria

A new study reveals that previously unknown antibiotic resistance genes are widespread in bacteria across various environments, including the human microbiome. The findings suggest that these genes can pose a significant threat to human health, highlighting the need for enhanced understanding of their development and spread.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalMicrobiome·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 5, 2023
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.

Global response to antimicrobial resistance ‘insufficient’

A global analysis of national action plans to tackle antimicrobial resistance reveals a significant gap in preparedness. The study found that many countries lack adequate funding and monitoring mechanisms, hindering effective implementation of policies.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateJun 5, 2023

New class of antibiotics to fight resistant bacteria

Researchers at the University of Zurich have developed a new class of antibiotics that target novel targets in bacterial metabolism, effectively fighting resistant bacteria. The peptides are highly effective, safe, and immune to resistance, offering hope for treating bacterial infections in patients.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience Advances·TypeImaging analysis·DateJun 1, 2023

Innovative tool predicts Buruli ulcer outbreaks in Victoria

A breakthrough surveillance tool has been developed to detect elevated risks of Buruli ulcer outbreaks in Victoria, utilizing possum 'poo' analysis. The tool reveals significant spatial correlation between clusters of Mycobacterium ulcerans positive possum excreta and human Buruli ulcer cases.

SourceThe Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity·JournaleLife·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 23, 2023

Anti-microbial nanonets display multi-functionality by mitigating inflammatory responses during sepsis

Pharmaceutical scientists from the National University of Singapore have developed multi-functional synthetic peptide nanonets for relieving inflammation caused by bacterial infection. These nanonets trap bacterial endotoxins and pro-inflammatory cytokines, achieving anti-inflammatory activity through selective binding.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 23, 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.

Breaking through bacterial barriers in chronic treatment-resistant wounds

Researchers developed a new method combining palmitoleic acid, gentamicin, and non-invasive ultrasound to improve drug delivery in chronic wounds infected with S. aureus. The strategy reduced bacterial burden by 94% and successfully sterilized wounds in diabetic mice.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateMay 22, 2023

A potential new weapon in the war against superbugs

Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center have found an effective treatment for multi-drug resistant bacteria, a major concern in the fight against superbugs. The newly discovered antibiotic, streptothricin, has shown potency against several drug-resistant strains of bacteria and may deserve further exploration as a potential...

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 16, 2023
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.

Phage structure captured for the first time, to benefit biotech applications

Researchers at the University of Exeter have captured the structure of a commonly used phage, filamentous phages, which will enable the development of new biotechnology applications. The new insights gained from this research will help improve phage display and other uses in drug discovery.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 15, 2023

Researchers find compound that combats multidrug-resistant bacteria in less than one hour

Researchers have discovered a compound that can combat multidrug-resistant bacteria within one hour, including the ESKAPE group of pathogens. The compound, Pln149-PEP20, is a synthetic peptide inspired by molecules secreted by Lactobacillus plantarum and has been found to be highly active against MDR bacteria.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalAntibiotics·DateMay 15, 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.

Save the phages to protect Big Blue

Researchers from the Institute of Physical Chemistry found that microplastics decrease bacteriophages' infectivity due to leachates and polymer size. The study highlights the impact of microplastics on aquatic ecosystems, affecting both animals and humans.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateMay 12, 2023

Study shows hospital policy allowing nurses to initiate C. difficile testing could reduce infection spread and associated morbidity

A new study suggests that allowing bedside nurses to independently order C. difficile testing can significantly reduce the time to receive test results, potentially decreasing clinical and economic burdens of CDI infections. The policy change also showed a decrease in patient infections and hospital economic costs.

SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·TypeCase study·DateMay 11, 2023
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Home measurement of blood oxygen levels by corona patients themselves easily applicable

A study by UMC Utrecht shows that corona patients can measure their blood oxygen levels at home using a pulse oximeter, feeling safe and experiencing more control. This method does not increase GP visits or hospitalization but contributes to relieving caregivers and keeping healthcare affordable.

SourceUniversity Medical Center Utrecht·JournalBritish Journal of General Practice·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 10, 2023

Scientists create the first CRISPR-based drug candidate targeting the microbiome

Researchers have engineered a new CRISPR-based drug candidate targeting E. coli directly while preserving the microbiome. The innovative treatment has shown promise in reducing E. coli burden in mice and is now in phase 1 clinical trials to treat blood cancer patients and prevent deadly infections.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMay 9, 2023

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria contaminates whole ICU - study

A study published in The Lancet Regional Health - Western Pacific found that carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) contaminated the entire ICU, with samples detected on bed units, ventilators, and equipment. The researchers highlight the urgent need for targeted infection prevention and control measures to stem the global...

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Western Pacific·TypeObservational study·DateMay 9, 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.

Fecal beads to act at the core of the intestinal microbiota

A UNIGE team has developed small beads encapsulating fecal bacteria for treating a serious intestinal infection. The technology overcomes obstacles in current treatments, allowing for easier and more comfortable administration.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalInternational Journal of Pharmaceutics·TypeNews article·DateMay 9, 2023

NSU research into bacteria may lead to new ways of treating infections, improving human health

Researchers at Nova Southeastern University have made breakthroughs in understanding the complex relationship between beneficial and harmful bacteria. By studying how these bacteria communicate and work together, they hope to develop new treatments for infections, such as those caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

SourceNova Southeastern University·JournaleLife·DateMay 8, 2023

Study hints at potential for health conditions to be diagnosed earlier

A new study by UCL researchers hints at the possibility of detecting conditions such as coeliac disease and Parkinson's disease in principle up to 10 years before diagnosis. The review of existing evidence indicates a 'diagnostic window' – the point at which diagnosis may be possible for some patients.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalBritish Journal of General Practice·TypeSystematic review·DateMay 5, 2023
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.

Bloodstream infections in preemies may originate from their gut microbiomes

A study published in Science Translational Medicine suggests that preterm infants' gut microbiomes play a role in the development of dangerous bacterial bloodstream infections. The researchers found that the most common bacteria causing these infections are also commonly found in the gut, and that antibiotics can disrupt the balance of...

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMay 3, 2023
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.

New biologic effective against major infection in early tests

Researchers developed a bioengineered drug candidate that counteracts <em>Staphylococcus aureus</em> infections, including MRSA. The mAbtyrins treatment targets multiple disease-causing mechanisms without killing the bacteria.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2023

Testing antibiotic resistance with a fast, cheap, and easy method

Researchers have developed a fast, cheap, and easy method to test antibiotic resistance in bacteria, using optical nanomotion detection. The technique can determine sensitivity or resistance of bacterial cells to antibiotics in under two hours, with significant implications for clinical and research applications.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 24, 2023

Study finds stool transplants more effective than antibiotics for treating recurring, life-threatening gut infections

A new Cochrane Review found that stool transplantation can increase the number of people recovering from Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) infection by 77%, compared to 40% with standard antibiotic treatment. The study also showed a decrease in side effects with stool transplantation.

SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateApr 24, 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.

Gut bacteria use super-polymers to dodge antibiotics

Researchers discovered that gut bacteria's F-pili are stronger in harsh conditions, enabling efficient gene transfer and biofilm formation. The findings highlight the challenge of combating antibiotic resistance and suggest exploiting similar molecular properties for precise drug delivery.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 21, 2023