Gladstone Institutes researchers have pioneered a new method to edit genes in human cells using retrons, which can produce abundant copies of template DNA from inside cells. The optimized system has shown improved efficiency and precision compared to current approaches.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in understanding the human gut microbiome by focusing on bacterial strains rather than species. By using a new computational method, scientists can analyze the strains of bacteria present in a microbiome sample more quickly and affordably.
Researchers developed a new metal-organic framework treatment that effectively eliminates H2O2-secreting bacteria, alleviating pulmonary injury and preventing systemic sepsis. The treatment, nFMs@Amp, uses Fe3+-doped metal organic frameworks loaded with antibiotic ampicillin to target and kill the bacteria.
A recent study uses machine learning to rapidly discover bacterial isolates with antifungal properties, identifying promising new compounds for crop protection. The approach analyzes thousands of microbial genomes at once, allowing researchers to identify novel beneficial microbes and bypass traditional screening tactics.
Researchers from Trinity College Dublin investigate the epidemiology and population biology of Enteroccocus faecium, a high-priority pathogen. They found that Irish isolates have evolved independently and are diverse, with a unique genetic transposon element encoding vancomycin resistance.
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet found that certain bacteria from the digestive system can cause damage to pancreatic cells, increasing the risk of malignant tumours. The study suggests that antibiotics could prevent this damage, offering a potential prophylactic intervention.
Researchers at Cornell University developed a novel method to track microbes and understand their role in processing soil carbon. The study found that different types of bacteria have varying strategies for assimilating carbon, categorized into guilds based on their access to food.
A University of Utah team analyzed woodrat gut bacteria and found that evolutionary history plays the greatest role in shaping microbiome structure. Diet and geography also influenced microbiome composition, but host relatedness was the strongest predictor in both wild and captive populations.
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 at USTC found Gp168 protein from bacteriophage Twort inhibits β-clamp function by occupying the DNA sliding channel, revealing a new class of proteins. This discovery provides inspiration for developing new antimicrobial reagents and offers an alternative mechanism for bacteriophages to inhibit bacterial replication.
Researchers found that bacterial communities in streams adjacent to young secondary forests recover to resemble those of mature forest streams within a decade after cattle is removed from the land. This study provides hope for restoring water quality through passive reforestation, which can be crucial for human health and the environment.
Researchers at Cornell University used machine learning to predict the spread of antibiotic resistance genes among bacteria, identifying potential networks of exchange and driving factors. The approach could help control the spread of antibiotic resistance and develop new targets for novel antibiotics.
Researchers found that DNA tangles create mutational hotspots in bacterial genomes, influencing evolution. By altering the sequence to prevent hairpin tangles, they can predict how microbes might mutate under selective pressure.
A new study suggests that a novel treatment involving the administration of an enzyme that degrades neutrophil nets may prevent brain swelling and improve waste clearance in rats with bacterial meningitis. The treatment could be combined with antibiotics if needed.
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.
Researchers discovered two defence systems in bacteria that work together to protect against modified DNA bacteriophages. BrxU has the potential to be a biotechnological tool for mapping the human epigenome, which alters in cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers developed an integrated framework combining single-cell and metagenomics to characterize microbes. The approach showed higher accuracy and precise binning, revealing more bacterial genera and intra-species diversity.
Researchers are sequencing genomes of 700 Bacilli bacteria to enhance CDC's capacity for detecting novel infectious disease agents. The goal is to create a large database of Bacilli to support rapid laboratory methods for detecting emerging biothreats.
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.
A study examining ancient calculus samples from skeletal remains in South Tyrol and Trentino discovered previously unknown species of microorganisms. The researchers found that the diversity of oral microbiota decreased significantly over a short period of time, likely due to changes in diet and lifestyle.
Researchers found fecal contamination in Montana's Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness Area, primarily attributed to wildlife and pack animals. Human-associated bacteria were detected at lower levels, but not significantly related to landscape or elevation.
Researchers have developed a sophisticated new tool to detect and identify rare and unknown viruses and potentially deadly bacterial pathogens. The algorithm helps isolate DNA sequences shared among related organisms, enabling faster detection and identification of pathogens in clinical or wildlife settings.
A study compared four common DNA extraction methods and found that each method produced slightly different results due to varying 'how' factors. Researchers can now make informed decisions about their methods to optimize results.
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.
Researchers discovered a DNA modification system that coordinates bacterial replication in TB. The DarT/DarG system can be targeted by new antibiotics, offering hope for treating the deadly disease.
A study found that palm phytoplasmas in Florida were transmitted by the American palm cixiid bug, originating from Jamaica. The research revealed a network of movement across the Caribbean basin, with distinct groups of insects found in different countries.
Scientists found that rain-borne microbes can successfully colonize plants' aboveground microbial communities, protecting them from stressors. The study suggests that rain is a potentially important reservoir for phyllosphere bacteria, which could be used to improve plant health.
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.
Researchers have developed a new method to sequence and quantify plant endophytic bacterial communities using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The newly designed primer sets effectively avoid plant-DNA contamination and provide good bacterial coverage, making them suitable for various plants.
Researchers at TUM developed an enzyme-based method to selectively target and remove non-target DNA from skin samples, allowing for a more accurate analysis of the skin microbiome. This approach has shown promise in identifying microbial biomarkers for certain dermatological illnesses and may lead to new treatments.
Researchers at Rice University are developing novel computational approaches to track environmental microbiome dynamics over time, across species and after perturbations. The team will use biofilm-based 'species abundance networks' on scaffolds to observe how they form their own genome-exchange networks.
MIT researchers have created a new DNA writing technique called HiSCRIBE that can record interactions between cells and store spatial information. This approach offers a way to edit genes in the human microbiome, potentially revolutionizing the field of genome editing.
The KAUST Metagenomic Analysis Platform (KMAP) enables researchers worldwide to analyze massive microbial data, eliminating the need for advanced bioinformatics skills. KMAP allows scientists to identify proteins and enzymes with potential applications in various industries, such as agriculture and pharmaceuticals.
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 have successfully used nose drops containing genetically modified friendly bacteria to protect against meningitis, showing strong and long-lasting immune responses. The new method, which exploits the natural presence of non-pathogenic Neisseria lactamica in the nose, has potential applications beyond meningitis prevention.
Researchers from Institut Pasteur and CNRS discover the biosynthesis pathway of 2-aminoadenine, a new base in DNA, using crystallography platform. The discovery increases coding bases in DNA, enabling synthetic genetic biopolymers.
Scientists at the University of Delaware have made progress on a biological containment strategy using synthetic auxotrophy, keeping a strain of E. coli stable for 100 days. The research also shows promise for treating diseases and cleaning up the environment safely.
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.
A new study finds that the microbiome of grasses plays a crucial role in their ability to withstand drought. Healthy bacteria in grasses can provide nutrients, protect against pathogens and UV radiation, and help manage drought. However, under severe drought conditions, the bacterial communities become less diverse and more harmful.
New research from the University of Georgia reveals that 60% of cattle fecal samples contain multiple antibiotic-resistant salmonella strains, which can cause severe illness in people. CRISPR-SeroSeq technology identifies molecular signatures in bacteria's DNA, allowing for more sensitive detection of resistant strains.
Researchers used Helicobacter pylori DNA sequences to reconstruct ancient human migration from Siberia to the Americas. The study found a single migration event approximately 12,000 years ago, with some populations traveling to Siberia and then to the Americas.
Specialized bacteria in the oceans' seafloor have been found to consume and recycle DNA from dead biomass, a process that plays a crucial role in global biogeochemical cycles. The study identified novel DNA-eating bacteria, including the species Izemoplasma acidinucleici, which have sophisticated tools for degrading DNA.
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.
A study on the gastric bacterium Helicobacter pylori reveals that humans persisted in Siberia during the last ice age and recolonized northern regions. The findings also suggest a single migration of ancient Eurasians into the Americas via the Bering land bridge approximately 12,000 years ago.
Researchers have discovered a highly selective phage activation mechanism based on signal molecules in bacterial ecosystems. The study reveals that a specific bacterium produces a signal molecule that triggers the conversion of a latent phage into an active parasite, offering new possibilities for phage therapies and biotechnology.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University discovered a mechanism through which 'good' viruses can target and destroy 'bad' bacteria, using a bacteriophage protein to exploit the bacterial DNA's need for repair. This finding may lead to new tools to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Researchers found that just three to six bacterial groups are responsible for the majority of carbon cycling in soils. These dominant species were able to efficiently consume and utilize both existing and added soil carbon and nutrients.
A global study has discovered over 10,000 previously unknown bacteria and viruses in public transit systems and hospitals worldwide. The researchers mapped urban antimicrobial resistance and identified potential city-specific signatures for some genes.
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.
A diverse range of microorganisms were discovered in the Kuzbass coal seam, including bacteria that can convert poisonous carbon monoxide into CO2. These microbes have unique metabolic capabilities, allowing them to thrive in extreme environments.
Researchers have shown that CRISPR-Cas components are physically linked, enabling efficient updates of immune memory when infected by mutant viruses. This link allows bacteria to efficiently adapt and interfere with viral infections.
A study published in Nature reveals that early life is critical for setting up surveillance mechanisms to keep good bacteria in check. The immune system learns to recognize and distinguish between good and bad bacteria, which helps prevent chronic inflammation and inflammatory bowel disease.
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 new study found that five major kefir brands fell short of their claims, delivering between 10 million to 1 billion bacteria per gram. The researchers also identified discrepancies between the labeled species and those present in the products.
Researchers discovered a previously unknown way that gut microbes interact with the immune system, raising questions about what goes awry in autoimmune disease. The thymus organ plays a crucial role in educating T cells about self and non-self markers, but surprisingly, it gives gut bacteria the green light.
Researchers have discovered the biosynthesis pathway of 2-aminoadenine, a new DNA nucleobase found in bacteriophage S-2L. The pathway was identified through a homolog of the known enzyme succinoadenylate synthase and indicates that new bases can be enzymatically incorporated into genetic material.
A new study reveals that the oral microbiome of ancient humans and Neanderthals is surprisingly similar, with some bacterial strains shared between species. The analysis of fossilized dental plaque also suggests that early humans consumed starch-rich foods, potentially contributing to brain evolution.
Researchers at Penn State discovered a new mechanism for terminating transcription of DNA into RNA in bacteria, facilitated by proteins NusG and NusA. The study found that these proteins together facilitate termination at about 88% of intrinsic terminators, expanding our understanding of gene regulation and potential antibiotic targets.
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
A new protein analysis tool, called BGIS, can quickly assess protein function with no special equipment needed. This breakthrough could accelerate basic science and medical discoveries by identifying proteins' functions and regulating their activities.
Researchers are exploring the potential of individual immunomes to provide unprecedented insight into health. By analyzing antibodies and T-cell receptors, scientists can identify patterns and develop a near-universal blood test. This could lead to targeted therapies for various conditions, revolutionizing personalized medicine.
A research team at HKUST has discovered the mechanism of DNA melting and how an antibiotic called Myxopyronin inhibits this process. The study found that Myxopyronin binds to a partially closed form of the flexible clamp domain, diminishing the gate's ability to close and eventually inhibiting DNA melting.
Researchers created Retron Library Recombineering (RLR) to generate up to millions of mutations simultaneously and screen mutant cells efficiently. RLR eliminates the toxicity observed with CRISPR and improves genome-level exploration of mutations.
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.
A new strain of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG has been successfully developed to thrive in milk, offering potential benefits for infant gut health. The modified probiotic can utilize lactose and casein, producing lactic acid that inhibits gram-negative pathogenic bacteria.
Predatory bacteria grow faster and consume more resources than non-predators in the same soil, according to a study. These active predators play an outsized role in how elements are stored in or released from soil, with some species growing 36% faster and taking up carbon 211% faster.
A team of scientists at the University of Freiburg has developed a new optogenetic tool called BLADE that allows for controlled expression of genes in Escherichia coli using blue light. This breakthrough simplifies biotechnology methods and enables targeted protein production and signaling process studies.
Scientists at the University of Reading found that handwashing shapes communities of bacteria in sink drains, with dominant families differing by location and plumbing system type. The study suggests that even thorough cleaning may not eliminate all bacteria, highlighting the need for thorough disinfection of sinks.
Researchers developed a broadly protective COVID-19 vaccine using an innovative platform that targets a highly conserved genomic region of coronaviruses. The vaccine offers advantages in terms of ease of storage, transportation, and production, making it ideal for pandemic response.
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.
A new study published in Nature Ecology and Evolution found consistent biogeographic patterns among marine animals, protists, and bacteria along the South African coastline. The research highlights the importance of considering a full range of organisms when measuring environmental change.
Researchers developed a plasmonic isothermal recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) array chip that can detect 8 types of pathogens, including bacteria and viruses, in 30 minutes. The technology has been patented in Korea, the US, and China, and is planned to be applied for approval from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.
University of Michigan researchers observe RNA regulating protein synthesis in bacteria through transcription-translation coupling. The study reveals the unique mechanism allows for synchronized processes, enabling bacteria to adapt to external threats.