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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.

Urine reuse as fertilizer is not likely to transfer antibiotic resistance

A study by Krista Wigginton and colleagues found that urine-derived fertilizer loses 99% of its ability to confer resistance on soil bacteria after incubation. This suggests that upcycling urine is unlikely to transfer antibiotic resistance, reducing the environmental impact of this sustainable practice.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 22, 2020

New species of antibiotic-resistant bacteria found in infected wound

Scientists at University of Gothenburg discovered a new species of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, Scandinavium goeteborgense, isolated from an infected wound. The bacteria exhibit novel genetic variants of resistance, highlighting the need for precise treatment choices.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateJan 20, 2020

Cancer: Faster drug discovery to hit 'undruggable' targets

A new technique developed at the University of Michigan uses bacteria to produce billions of different drug candidates that won't fall apart quickly inside the body. The peptides on bacteria are so plentiful that researchers can see how well they work right on the bacterium, enabling them to test hundreds of millions of different designs.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateJan 20, 2020

Scientists Studied bacterial cells in the photoemission spectrum

Researchers use a new method combining visual microscopic observations and photoemission spectrum registration to create a map of cell surface physical and chemical state. The team studied Escherichia coli cells, which produce ferritin-like proteins that can be used for nanosized constructions.

SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalResults in Physics·DateJan 20, 2020

Human fetal lungs harbor a microbiome signature

Researchers found that human fetal lung microbiomes show changes in diversity during fetal development, with some taxonomic overlap between the placental and lung microbiomes. The study suggests that maternal-fetal microbial DNA transfer may play a role in normal lung and immune system development.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJan 17, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Common foods can help 'landscape' the jungle of our gut microbiome

Researchers found compounds in commonly consumed foods trigger phage production, killing harmful bacteria and promoting beneficial bacteria growth. This 'landscape' approach has far-reaching implications for controlling harmful microbes and maintaining a healthy gut microbiome.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalGut Microbes·DateJan 13, 2020

New CRISPR-based system targets amplified antibiotic-resistant genes

A new CRISPR-based gene-drive system, Pro-AG, has been developed to target antibiotic-resistant bacteria with increased efficiency. The system uses a self-amplifying editing mechanism to insert tailored genetic payloads into target sites with high precision.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 16, 2019

Rectal microbes influence effectiveness of HIV vaccine

Researchers at UC Davis discovered that rectal microbes can impact HIV vaccine efficacy, with Lactobacillus supplements boosting antibody production and Prevotella bacteria hindering immune responses. The study suggests targeting specific gut bacteria may improve vaccine performance.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalmSphere·DateDec 13, 2019
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.

RNA modification -- Methylation and mopping up

Scientists identify a new type of RNA modification in bacteria that is attached under stress and removed quickly. The sulfur-containing base modification helps regulate protein synthesis and could serve as an efficient detoxification mechanism to remove reactive chemical groups.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 9, 2019

New tool to detect blackleg disease in potato has widespread application

A new online tool called Uniqprimer has been developed to detect blackleg disease in potatoes with high accuracy and ease of use. It quickly designs species-specific DNA tags for detecting pathogens using DNA testing, allowing for accurate pathogen detection and informing farmers' on-farm decision making.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Disease·DateDec 5, 2019
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.

Dramatic transition in Streptomyces life cycle explained in new discovery

A new study reveals the critical role of c-di-GMP in controlling the transition from vegetative growth to sporulation in Streptomyces bacteria. The signaling molecule binds to master repressor BldD, controlling gene activity and ultimately preventing reproductive hyphae from differentiating into spores.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalMolecular Cell·DateDec 3, 2019

Once hidden cellular structures emerge in fight against viruses

A team of researchers at the University of Arizona has uncovered a previously unknown cellular structure that enables bacteria to rapidly defend against viruses. This newly formed filament increases DNA-cleaving ability by 200 times, making it an essential component of bacterial immune responses.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalStructure·DateNov 26, 2019

New discovery in C. difficile biology could lead to treatments for dangerous infections

A new study published in Nature Microbiology has discovered that epigenetic chemical modifications play a crucial role in the survival and spread of C. difficile bacteria. The research found that inhibiting these modifications can reduce bacterial populations by up to 100 times, paving the way for potential treatments for this deadly i...

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Microbiology·DateNov 25, 2019

Turning to old remedies for new health challenges

Acinetobacter baumannii is a highly resistant bacteria that causes persistent skin and soft tissue infections. Researchers are investigating the use of selenium as an antimicrobial agent, which has shown promise in inhibiting bacterial virulence.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalWound Medicine·DateNov 21, 2019
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.

Beware probiotics in ICU patients

A study found that probiotics can cause bloodstream infections in ICU patients, with 1.1% of cases linked to Lactobacillus bacteria. Genetic analysis revealed a mutation that made the bacteria resistant to antibiotics, highlighting the need for caution when using probiotics in critically ill patients.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNature Medicine·DateNov 12, 2019

Immune system targets vitamin B12 pathway to neutralize bacteria

Researchers discovered that itaconate, a compound produced by the immune system, tricks Mtb into using propionate as a growth source. This reaction produces a stable biradical that lingers for over an hour, enabling researchers to grow crystals of the enzyme and understand its mechanism.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience·DateOct 31, 2019

To survive in the human gut, bacteria need genetic 'passcode'

Scientists have discovered that human gut bacteria require a unique genetic code to thrive, which is different from person to person. The study found that immunity genes from one bacterium are often shared by others, suggesting a complex and adaptive immune system in the gut.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateOct 30, 2019
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.

The cholera bacterium can steal up to 150 genes in one go

Vibrio cholerae uses its type VI secretion system (T6SS) to compete with other bacteria and acquire new genetic material, leading to rapid evolution and pathogen emergence. The bacterium can steal up to 150,000 nucleic acid base pairs, or roughly 150 genes, in a single attack.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·DateOct 7, 2019

Researchers unlock potential to use CRISPR to alter the microbiome

A new CRISPR delivery system developed by Western University researchers enables targeted attacks on specific bacteria, including Staph A and E. coli. This breakthrough has the potential to create personalized antimicrobial agents and revolutionize the treatment of bacterial infections.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 4, 2019
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 CRISPR-Cas9 variant may boost precision in gene editing

Researchers have developed a new CRISPR-Cas9 variant that reduces unintended changes in DNA, increasing precision in gene therapy. The SaCas9-HF variant shows high on-target efficiency and nearly undetectable off-target activity, offering a promising alternative for precise genome editing.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 2019

Researchers make it possible for ultrasound to reveal gene expression in the body

Researchers at Caltech have developed a new reporter gene that allows for the visualization of genetic activity using ultrasound, enabling the study of gene expression in tumors, immune cells, and other cell types. The breakthrough could lead to new diagnostic tools for diseases such as cancer and neurological disorders.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateSep 27, 2019

MIPT scientists come up with faster way to discover antibiotics

Researchers at MIPT have identified a promising class of antibiotics, 2-pyrazol-1-yl-thiazole derivatives, which exhibit antibacterial properties and inhibit protein synthesis. The discovery was made possible by a semi-automatic analysis method that enabled the screening of over 125,000 molecules.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalThe Journal of Antibiotics·DateSep 26, 2019
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.

Cause of antibiotic resistance identified

Researchers at Newcastle University have confirmed that bacteria can lose their cell wall to avoid detection by antibiotics, leading to recurring urinary tract infections. The study found that L-form switching allows bacteria to survive and re-form their cell wall, making it harder for the immune system to target them.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 26, 2019

Test for life-threatening nutrient deficit is made from bacteria entrails

A new experimental test made from bacterial innards has high potential as a basis for an inexpensive, easy malnutrition test for use in the field. The test can detect zinc levels and quantify clinically relevant levels, allowing aid agencies to get immediate information and influence policy decisions on nutritional interventions.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 25, 2019

Babies' gut bacteria affected by delivery method, Baby Biome project shows

A large-scale study found that vaginally born babies have different gut bacteria than those delivered by Caesarean. Researchers discovered that the mode of delivery impacted the gut microbiome, with vaginal delivery promoting mother's gut bacteria and Caesarean deliveries resulting in hospital-borne bacteria.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature·DateSep 18, 2019
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.

Microbes make chemicals for scent marking in a cat

A new study published in PLOS ONE suggests that many volatile compounds from a male cat's anal sacs are produced by a community of bacteria, rather than the cat itself. This discovery challenges traditional views on scent marking and communication in cats.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 13, 2019

Understanding gut bacteria: forces for good (and sometimes evil)

A recent study has characterized the diverse array of bacterial species residing in human guts, revealing 157 different types of organisms. The research, led by Hiroki Morizono, aims to improve public health by establishing a baseline for healthy gut microbiomes and exploring health implications for patients.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 11, 2019

Acute periodontal disease bacteria love colon and dirt microbes

Research found that common mouth bacteria responsible for acute periodontitis fared better when paired with bacteria and other microbes from outside the mouth, including those found in the colon or dirt. This suggests that not all relationships within a microbiome are cooperative, and some may have 'high fences' and share sparsely.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 9, 2019
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.

Resistance can spread even without the use of antibiotics

Researchers found a new mechanism for resistance gene transmission in intestinal bacteria that's independent of antibiotics. Persistent bacteria can survive and share genes with other bacteria, spreading resistance, according to ETH Zurich scientists.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateSep 5, 2019

From the tropics to the boreal, temperature drives ecosystem functioning

Researchers found that temperature influences functional traits between plants and microbes, leading to changes in nutrient cycling and carbon processing. As temperatures varied from tropical to boreal forests, the team observed shifts in bacterial genes tied to these processes.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateSep 4, 2019

The argument for sexual selection in bacteria

Bacteria can swap DNA through mechanisms similar to sexual selection in animals, and this genetic mixing may have benefits for cell survival and evolution. Researchers suggest that bacterial transformation, a process where cells release and take up DNA, could be governed by sexual selection.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Microbiology·DateSep 4, 2019

Researchers describe a key protein for Epstein-Barr virus infection

Scientists have discovered a key protein structure that could lead to the development of treatments for Epstein-Barr virus infections. The portal protein plays a crucial role in the virus's DNA entry and exit mechanisms, and understanding its structure may enable the design of virus-specific inhibitors.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 29, 2019
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.

Cell-free DNA detects pathogens and quantifies damage

A new assay uses cell-free DNA to identify viruses and bacteria in the human body while also quantifying injuries to organs. This test is simple, fast, low-cost, and generalizable enough to identify thousands of pathogens, making it a major step towards personalizing therapy and making organ transplantation safer.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 29, 2019
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.

Scientists uncover mystery of DNA methylation

Researchers at Technical University of Denmark have developed a method to quickly couple enzymes with specific methylation patterns, revealing which enzymes are responsible for certain patterns. This discovery holds great promise for improving DNA transformation and introducing foreign DNA into host organisms.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 19, 2019

Each cell is a small world: the microbiome of ciliates has been studied

Researchers investigate the microbiome of Stentor coeruleus and find a distinct bacterial community associated with the ciliate. The study reveals that different ciliates can host unique bacterial populations, highlighting the importance of further research into protistan microbiomes.

SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 16, 2019

Genetic census of the human microbiome

The study analyzed DNA sequencing data from over 3,500 human microbiome samples, revealing nearly 46 million bacterial genes. More than half of these genes were unique to each individual, performing specialized functions and suggesting a key role in microbial evolution.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateAug 14, 2019
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.

UTI discovery may lead to new treatments

Researchers followed a long-term UTI sufferer and found that recurring infections came from a single bacterial reservoir in the body. This discovery could lead to more effective treatments by targeting the intestinal reservoir rather than just treating the bladder.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 13, 2019

The formula that makes bacteria float upstream

Researchers have found a physical explanation for how bacteria swim against the current, with a new mathematical formula describing their motion behavior. The discovery could enable design of special tube surfaces to slow down bacterial migration.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 12, 2019

Researchers identify type of parasitic bacteria that saps corals of energy

A new genus of bacteria has been identified as a major contributor to coral decline, siphoning energy from corals and making them more susceptible to disease. The study found that the bacterial genus is globally associated with many different coral hosts and has genes that enable it to parasitize its hosts for amino acids and ATP.

SourceOregon State University·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateAug 8, 2019

Bacteria-killing gel heals itself while healing you

Researchers at McMaster University developed a novel antibacterial gel made entirely from bacteria-killing viruses, which can be targeted to attack specific forms of bacteria. The gel holds promise for numerous beneficial applications in medicine and environmental protection.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateJul 25, 2019
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.

3D-printed pill samples gut microbiome to aid diagnosis and treatment

A team of researchers from Tufts University has developed a 3D-printed pill that can sample bacteria in the gut without causing harm. The pill provides accurate identification of bacterial populations and their relative abundance, enabling better understanding of the role of different intestinal bacterial species in health and disease.

SourceTufts University·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·DateJul 24, 2019

Learning to look

Researchers developed an algorithm that can identify a certain type of bacterial viruses called inoviruses, significantly expanding their known diversity. The tool was trained on a reference dataset and combed through over 70,000 microbial and metagenome datasets, ultimately identifying more than 10,000 inovirus-like sequences.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJul 22, 2019

'Semi-synthetic' bacteria churn out unnatural proteins

Researchers optimized bacteria to produce proteins with unconventional amino acids, a significant breakthrough in synthetic biology. The study demonstrates the potential of semi-synthetic organisms to create new life forms with expanded genetic codes.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJul 17, 2019

Scissors get stuck -- another way bacteria use CRISPR/Cas9

Researchers discovered Cas9's ability to block gene activity without cutting DNA in pathogenic bacterium Francisella novicida, regulating disease-causing genes. This finding expands the versatility of CRISPR/Cas9 for genome engineering and potential antibiotic resistance solutions.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJul 1, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

How gastric stem cells fight bacteria

Researchers discover that gastric stem cells release a protein called intelectin 1 to bind to Helicobacter pylori bacteria, preventing damage. This mechanism is triggered by the presence of H. pylori and stimulates stem cell proliferation and tissue regeneration.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJun 25, 2019

The solution to antibiotic resistance could be in your kitchen sponge

A recent study has found bacteriophages, viruses that infect bacteria, living in kitchen sponges. The phages were isolated from used kitchen sponges and shown to be effective against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The discovery could potentially provide a new solution to the growing threat of antibiotic resistance.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 23, 2019
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.