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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
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.

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

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

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
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.

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

HKU Engineering team develops a useful framework to identify high-risk antibiotic resistance genes

A research team at HKU has developed a framework to evaluate the risks of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) based on three factors: human-associated environments, gene mobility, and host pathogenicity. The framework provides a risk hierarchy for ARGs, allowing for informed decision-making on tackling environmental ARGs.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 6, 2021

Human antibiotic use affects wild bears

Researchers found that human antibiotic use increased resistance to antibiotics in bears' bacteria, affecting even those far from civilization. The study suggests that reducing antibiotic use can help decline resistance rates.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 6, 2021

Researchers sequence genome of drug-resistant Salmonella enteritidis strain that can sicken poultry

A virulent Salmonella Enteritidis strain has been sequenced from two consecutive poultry flocks in North Carolina State University. The strain, SE_TAU19, exhibits seven antimicrobial resistance genes and 120 virulence genes, posing a threat to human health. Genome sequencing provides valuable data for tracing outbreaks and preventing f...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalFrontiers in Veterinary Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 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.

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

Keeping gonorrhea at bay

Researchers have identified a unique sequence essential for efficient multidrug efflux function of the MtrD protein in Neisseria gonorrhoeae, a key mechanism for antimicrobial resistance. This discovery could lead to the development of new antibiotic treatments.

SourceFlinders University·JournalmBio·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 31, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Comparing the pathogen numbers in backyard and commercial composts

A study found that commercial composts contain more airborne pathogens than backyard composts, while immature compost samples have high levels of antibiotic resistance genes. The researchers hope to improve their detection method to assess the threat to humans.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

History of human antibiotic use written in the oral bacteria of wild brown bears

Researchers analyzed oral bacteria of wild brown bears to track history of human antibiotic use and find significant decrease in antibiotic resistance after national policies were implemented. The study highlights the effectiveness of governmental policies in mitigating a major health threat on a national level.

SourceUppsala University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 25, 2021
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.

Possible new antivirals against COVID-19, herpes

Scientists have developed stable peptide mimics called peptoids to treat viruses and prevent infections. Peptoids, such as those tested against SARS-CoV-2 and HSV-1, could one day cure or prevent many kinds of infections, including COVID-19.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 24, 2021

Antibiotic resistance is a global health challenge that can't be ignored

A study found that COVID-19 restrictions led to a 36% drop in antibiotic dispensing rates in Australia, primarily for respiratory tract infections. The decline continued into winter and was seen across all age groups, suggesting it was not due to reduced access to healthcare.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 18, 2021

Team of disease ecologists documents person-to-person spread of antimicrobial-resistant plague

A recent study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases documents the person-to-person transmission of antimicrobial-resistant pneumonic plague in an outbreak in rural Madagascar. The AMR strain was resistant to streptomycin but susceptible to co-trimoxazole, and all patients treated with antibiotics survived.

SourceNorthern Arizona University·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateAug 12, 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.

Drug-resistant bacteria found in the guts of lemurs who live around humans

A study by Duke University researchers found antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the guts of lemurs living close to humans. The closer the contact, the more resistant bugs were found. Proximity to humans determined the type and abundance of resistance genes acquired.

SourceDuke University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateAug 9, 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

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

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
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.

Drug-resistant germ packs punch to US travelers

Researchers found that over 60% of US residents infected with antibiotic-resistant salmonella Kentucky while abroad were resistant to fluoroquinolones. The bacteria is more likely to cause disease and evade antibiotics when acquired in Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa.

SourceWashington State University·JournalFrontiers in Sustainable Food Systems·TypeObservational study·DateAug 2, 2021

Model can predict how drug interactions influence antibiotic resistance

A new model using simple changes in microbe growth curves can predict how antibiotic resistance evolves in response to different treatment combinations, doses and sequences. The model helps explain counterintuitive behavior observed in past experiments, such as slowed evolution when combining two antibiotics.

SourceeLife·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 27, 2021

HKU scientists harness the naturally abundant CRISPR-Cas system to edit superbugs with the hope of treating infections caused by drug resistant pathogens

A team of researchers from HKU has developed a transferrable and integrative type I CRISPR-based platform that can efficiently edit Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a superbug capable of infecting various tissues and organs. The technique enables rapid identification of resistance determinants and development of novel anti-resistance strategies.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJul 22, 2021

Is bacterial acidity a key to tackle antimicrobial resistance?

Researchers at the University of Exeter have developed a novel method to measure bacterial acidity, which could help reduce antimicrobial resistance. The study found that certain bacteria can survive antibiotic treatment by maintaining an acidic pH, and the team is working on developing new antibiotics that target these persisters.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalmBio·DateJul 20, 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.

Human action, key to antibiotic resistance in giant tortoises of Galapagos

Research finds that giant tortoises on the Galapagos Islands with human contact have higher bacterial resistance to antibiotics, posing a threat to public health. The study suggests that human activities are facilitating the dispersal of antibiotic resistance into the environment.

SourceUniversidad Complutense de Madrid·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateJul 19, 2021

Pandemic of antibiotic resistance is killing children in Bangladesh

A new study found that antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections are killing children in Bangladesh, with 77% of pneumonia cases caused by gram-negative bacteria. Children with resistant infections were 17 times more likely to die than those without.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalOpen Forum Infectious Diseases·DateJul 15, 2021

Human waste contaminating urban water leads to 'superbug' spread -- study

A new study in mSystems finds human waste contaminating urban lakes, rivers, and surface water in Bangladesh is driving the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The research highlights the importance of improving access to clean water, sanitation, and sewerage infrastructure to reduce antimicrobial resistance.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalmSystems·DateJul 15, 2021

Are silver nanoparticles a silver bullet against microbes?

Scientists investigate how bacteria develop resistance to silver nanoparticles, identifying a key genetic mutation and differences in motility. The findings suggest that silver nanoparticles may be effective against certain strains of bacteria, but caution is needed to prevent resistance.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJul 13, 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.

Dog food sold across Europe contains antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including 'superbugs' found in hospital patients

A study found that raw dog food in European supermarkets and pet shops contains antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including 'superbugs' found in hospital patients. The researchers concluded that dog food is a source of bacteria resistant to last-resort antibiotics and could potentially spread to humans.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·JournalInternational Journal of Food Microbiology·DateJul 10, 2021

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 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.

Dutch study finds antibiotic-resistant bacteria common in veterinary staff

A new study found that one in ten veterinary workers in the Netherlands carries strains of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including ESBL-producing bacteria. The study suggests that occupational contact with animals may be a key factor in transmitting these resistant bacteria to humans.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateJun 23, 2021

HKU scientists reveal silver-based antimicrobials can be utilized as antibiotic adjuvants to combat antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Researchers at HKU have identified 38 authentic Ag+-binding proteins in Staphylococcus aureus, revealing silver's molecular targets and mode of action. The study shows that silver-based antimicrobials can potentiate the efficacy of antibiotics, resensitize MRSA to antibiotics, and slow down antibiotic resistance evolution.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 20, 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.

Research establishes safe water thresholds for antimicrobials, to help mitigate resistance

Researchers developed a new framework to establish safe thresholds for antimicrobial release into the environment, addressing the global health threat of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The framework provides guidance on risk assessment and could inform policy to reduce antimicrobial levels in water systems, helping to mitigate resistance.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalWater Research·DateJun 10, 2021

Trained viruses prove more effective at fighting antibiotic resistance

Researchers have discovered that pre-trained phages can increase their ability to fight bacterial infections, delaying the onset of antibiotic resistance. This breakthrough uses evolutionary training to improve phage potency against deadly bacteria.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 7, 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.

Hundreds of antibiotic resistant genes found in the gastrointestinal tracts of Danish infants

A new study from the University of Copenhagen reveals that Danish one-year-olds carry several hundred antibiotic resistant genes in their bacterial gut flora. The presence of these genes is partly attributable to antibiotic use among mothers during pregnancy, and well-developed gut flora may reduce the incidence of resistant bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalCell·DateMay 26, 2021

Organic meat less likely to be contaminated with multidrug-resistant bacteria, study suggests

A new study found that organic-certified meats are 56 percent less likely to be contaminated with multidrug-resistant bacteria compared to conventionally produced meat. The research analyzed data from the US National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System and covered over 39,000 meat samples.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateMay 12, 2021
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.

Earthworms could help reduce antibiotic resistance genes in soil

Researchers found that earthworm guts have lower numbers and relative abundances of antibiotic-resistance genes compared to surrounding soils. The earthworms' unique gut environment may destroy ARGs or outcompete bacteria hosting them, suggesting a potential role in natural bioremediation.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMay 12, 2021

Researchers find target to fight antibiotic resistance

A component of bacteria's cell walls, cardiolipin, may hold the key to fighting antibiotic-resistant microbes. Without it, the outer membrane becomes penetrable, making bacteria vulnerable to antibiotics.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 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.

Identifying the rise of multi drug resistant E. coli

Researchers tracked antibiotic resistance in E. coli over 16 years, finding rapid increase in multi-drug resistant strains. The study highlights the importance of tracking resistant bacteria to prevent their spread and improve treatment options.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalThe Lancet Microbe·DateMay 10, 2021

A protein with a dual role: Both repair and mutation

The Mfd protein's dual role in repairing bacterial DNA and promoting mutations has been discovered, offering new avenues for fighting antibiotic resistance. This phenomenon could also lead to a better understanding of cancer cell resistance to chemotherapy.

SourceCNRS·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Global battle against antibiotic resistance requires tailored solutions

The study found enormous differences in the availability and use of antibiotics between African and Asian countries, with Asia having more readily available antibiotics. Self-medication is a significant problem, with high rates in some countries, and context plays a crucial role in combating antibiotic resistance.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateMar 11, 2021