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Milestone for the early detection of sepsis

Researchers developed a ground-breaking method to detect sepsis 2-3 days before clinical symptoms appear using endogenous signals (biomarkers). The test has high accuracy and may increase survival chances for sepsis patients. Approval in the US FDA is underway, with clinical trials starting soon.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalJournal of Biotechnology·DateApr 21, 2020

Aquaculture at the crossroads of global warming and antimicrobial resistance

Researchers found that global warming promotes the development of pathogenic bacteria in aquaculture, leading to increased disease rates and antibiotic use. The study highlights the urgent need for alternative treatments and encourages research using One Health or EcoHealth approaches to address antimicrobial resistance.

SourceInstitut de recherche pour le développement·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 20, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

RIT researchers build micro-device to detect bacteria, viruses

Researchers designed a new microfluidic device that uses magnetic nano-beads to isolate minute bacterial particles. The device improves the detection of drug-resistant strains and difficult-to-detect micro-particles such as Ebola and coronaviruses.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateApr 17, 2020

How cells recognize uninvited guests

A research team at the University of Bonn has discovered that the TLR8 immune sensor plays a crucial role in defending human cells against bacteria and other pathogens. The enzymes RNaseT2 and RNase2 break down bacterial RNA into characteristic fragments, allowing TLR8 to recognize and respond to the invasion.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalImmunity·DateApr 14, 2020

Economic impacts of olive tree pathogen

A study by Kevin Schneider and colleagues found that the bacterial strain Xylella fastidiosa subsp. pauca could have significant economic impacts on olive tree cultivation in Greece, Italy, and Spain. Replanting with resistant varieties or removing infected plants can mitigate these losses.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2020

The building blocks of gum disease

Researchers at OIST Graduate University have discovered the structure of adhesive pili in Porphyromonas gingivalis, a major bacterial pathogen causing gum disease. The study sheds light on how these pili assemble and provides insights into combating diseases associated with P. gingivalis.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Microbiology·DateApr 13, 2020

Now metal surfaces can be instant bacteria killers

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a technique that uses laser-texturing to create nanoscale patterns on metal surfaces, instantly killing bacteria and viruses. The technology has potential applications in medical devices such as orthopedic implants and wearable patches for chronic wounds.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·DateApr 9, 2020
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.

Forgotten tale of phage therapy history revealed

Researchers from University of Jyväskylä uncovered historical data on phage therapy's successful use against dysentery and staphylococcal infections in Brazil. The study sheds light on the revived interest in phage therapy as an alternative to antibiotics in the fight against antimicrobial resistance.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateMar 27, 2020
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 study: Cannabis helps fight resistant bacteria

A new study published in Scientific Reports found that cannabidiol (CBD) enhances the effect of antibiotics against Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, a major human pathogen. The combination of CBD and antibiotics showed a more powerful effect than using antibiotics alone, reducing the need for antibiotics to achieve the same outcome.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 24, 2020

Science snapshots from Berkeley Lab

Scientists at Berkeley Lab have discovered a natural mosquito-killing compound that could lead to safer and more effective anti-mosquito products. Researchers have also made progress on developing fast-charging batteries and created a new library of artificial antibodies with molecular precision.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 23, 2020

Antibiotic intercepts building blocks of the bacterial envelope

Researchers at the University of Bonn have deciphered daptomycin's mode of action, blocking cell wall construction and leading to bacterial death. The study sheds light on the antibiotic's mechanism, paving the way for optimization and combination therapies against antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 20, 2020
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.

Graphene underpins a new platform to selectively ID deadly strains of bacteria

A Boston College-led team developed a graphene field effect transistor (G-FET) that selectively identifies deadly bacterial species Staphylococcus aureus and antibiotic-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii. The rapid detection platform employs peptides to capture specific bacteria, allowing for fast and accurate diagnosis.

SourceBoston College·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateMar 19, 2020

Sepsis, gut bacteria, and breast milk

A substance found in breast milk appears to prevent the migration of pathogenic Escherichia coli from the gut to the bloodstream of newborn mice. Donated breast milk collected closer to birth may provide increased protection against late-onset sepsis.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 16, 2020
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.

Receptors for the immune defense

Researchers discovered that jawless and jawed vertebrates share similar immune receptor gene structures despite independent evolution. The findings provide insight into the evolution of the adaptive immune system and its importance for human health.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience Immunology·DateMar 13, 2020

Bacteria form biofilms like settlers form cities

Researchers used super-resolution imaging and a computational algorithm to study how bacteria multiply and grow into dense biofilms. They found that growth patterns are analogous to urbanization, with individual bacteria forming 'cities' that merge and expand over time.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 13, 2020

Bacteria might help other bacteria to tolerate antibiotics better

A study by the Dynamical Systems Biology lab reveals that bacteria can make each other more tolerant to antibiotics when coexisting. The response of bacteria to antibiotics depends on other species they live with, suggesting new strategies to combat bacterial infections.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 12, 2020

Bursts of diversity in the gut microbiota

Researchers at Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência found that certain bacteria can mutate 1000-fold higher than normal, leading to bursts of diversity in the gut microbiota. A beneficial mutation was identified that increases the ability of the bacteria to eat a specific sugar.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 12, 2020
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.

Aging and nutrients competition determine changes in microbiota

Research at Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência uncovered two new mechanisms in the microbiota's evolution, driven by aging and nutrient competition. In mice, E. coli adapts to inflammation and scarce nutrients in older individuals, leading to potentially pathogenic changes.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 11, 2020

Study shows CRISPR effectiveness against colitis pathogen

Researchers used CRISPR-Cas system to effectively target and eliminate specific gut bacteria, including Clostridioides difficile, the pathogen that causes colitis. The study demonstrates the potential of this approach in preventing disease and promoting human gut health.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalmBio·DateMar 10, 2020

Bacteria potentially involved in the development of type 2 diabetes

A study by Université Laval researchers suggests that bacteria may play a role in the development of type 2 diabetes in individuals with severe obesity. The researchers found distinct bacterial signatures in diabetics' blood, liver, and fat deposits compared to non-diabetics.

SourceUniversité Laval·JournalNature Metabolism·DateMar 9, 2020
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.

Could cancer immunotherapy success depend on gut bacteria?

Researchers found that gut bacteria can accumulate within tumors and enhance the effectiveness of anti-CD47 immunotherapy. The study suggests that a probiotic might improve treatment outcomes, and identifying specific bacterial strains is crucial for future research.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMar 6, 2020

New next-generation sequencing technique dramatically shortens diagnosis of sepsis

A new next-generation sequencing technique using real-time nanopore sequencing can analyze tiny amounts of microbial cell-free DNA, offering accurate diagnosis of sepsis-causing agents within hours. The technique achieved a 3.5-fold increase in sequencing throughput and allowed for pathogen identification within minutes.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateMar 5, 2020

Two-faced bacteria

Researchers at Texas A&M University have discovered a previously unknown response to indole in the beneficial gut bacteria E. coli, which seems to both repel and attract bacteria. The Janus response displays sophistication and could lead to a better understanding of the complexities of the gut microbiome.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 5, 2020
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.

Newfound cell defense system features toxin-isolating 'sponges'

Researchers at NYU Langone Health discovered a cell defense mechanism that uses tiny, protein-coated packages called exosomes to bind to and neutralize bacterial toxins. This 'soaking up' of toxins helps keep cells safe from infection.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateMar 4, 2020

Identifying pathogenic genes in virus strains at a glance

The Pangaia project at Bielefeld University is developing new algorithms to analyze genomic data for biomedicine, enabling faster detection of infectious strains and hereditary diseases. Researchers can compare a single genome with thousands of others in a single step, highlighting similarities and differences.

SourceBielefeld University·DateMar 4, 2020

SFU team helps discover potential superbug-killing compound

Researchers discover potential superbug-killing compound AB569 that targets priority pathogens and additional bacteria causing foodborne illness. The compound has shown promising results in treating a wide range of infections, including those caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 3, 2020

The microbes in your mouth, and a reminder to floss and go to the dentist

A crowd-sourced study found that people who floss regularly have lower microbial diversity in their mouths than non-flossers, and adults with recent dental visits have less of the periodontal disease-causing oral pathogen. The study also uncovered a possible link between childhood obesity and periodontal disease.

SourceColorado State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 2, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Identifying pathogenic genes in virus strains at a glance

Researchers are developing new algorithms to quickly compare genetic data from viruses, bacteria, and other organisms to identify pathogenic genes. This project, Pangaia, aims to make computer-assisted pangenomics faster and more user-friendly for biomedicine applications.

SourceBielefeld University·DateFeb 27, 2020

New immunotherapeutic strategy shows promise in eradicating infectious biofilms

Researchers at Temple University Health System have developed a new monoclonal antibody that can break apart communities of harmful bacteria, allowing for more effective treatment of infections. The therapy has shown promise in eradicating biofilms on medical devices and reducing the risk of sepsis.

SourceTemple University Health System·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 27, 2020

Outsmarting pathogens

Scientists develop a new model to predict bacterial resistance to antibiotics and explore approaches for universal flu vaccines. Researchers also create a platform to accelerate drug development and study the impact of antibiotics on gut bacteria.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateFeb 27, 2020

Metals could be the link to new antibiotics

University of Queensland researchers have discovered 23 metal compounds with antibacterial and antifungal activity, selectively killing bacteria like MRSA but not human cells. The findings offer promise for outwitting bacterial resistance, as the new compounds may use different mechanisms than existing antibiotics.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalChemical Science·DateFeb 26, 2020
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.

McMaster researchers uncover hidden antibiotic potential of cannabis

Researchers at McMaster University have discovered a non-psychoactive cannabinoid called CBG that shows promising antibacterial activity against drug-resistant MRSA. The study found that CBG prevents the ability of bacteria to form biofilms and destroys preformed biofilms, targeting the cell membrane of the bacteria.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalACS Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 26, 2020

Study finds key mechanism for how typhoid bacteria infects

Researchers have identified a crucial role for the typhoid toxin protein in delivering toxins to host immune cells and disrupting their function. The study's findings suggest that targeting specific sugars on immune cells could prevent the bacteria from entering and infecting them, paving the way for new treatment options.

SourceCornell University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateFeb 25, 2020

Otago researchers shed light on 'arms race' between bacteria and viruses

A recent study published in Nature found that CRISPR anti-viral immunity is often a disadvantage to bacteria when infected by certain viruses. The research suggests that triggering the powerful defense systems can be risky for a bacterium, leading to significant implications for treatment design.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalNature·DateFeb 25, 2020
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.

Research team tackles superbug infections with novel therapy

Researchers develop effective treatment for antibiotic-resistant bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a major cause of hospital-acquired infections. The novel therapy, AB569, kills the bacteria by targeting multiple processes, offering hope against superbug infections.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 20, 2020

Potential drug against antibiotic-resistant bacteria

Researchers developed AB569, a combination of acidified nitrite and disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, which killed Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial pathogens, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The agent was found to be nontoxic to human cells at bactericidal concentrations, suggesting a potential therapeutic agent for ...

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 17, 2020
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.

Answers to microbiome mysteries in the gills of rainbow trout

Scientists have uncovered a crucial role of mucosal antibodies, specifically IgT, in regulating the microbiome and defending against pathogens in fish. By manipulating the immune system of rainbow trout, researchers found that IgT plays two paradoxical roles: reducing bad microbes while promoting beneficial bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalScience Immunology·DateFeb 12, 2020

Scientists invent germ-fighting fabric for health care

UMass Lowell researchers develop germ-killing fabric with N-halamine, reducing risk of drug-resistant bacteria and hospital-acquired infections. The fabric can be recharged through bleach washing, extending its effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·DateFeb 11, 2020
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.

Fighting against multi-resistant bacteria

A team from JMU will investigate new antibiotics that can be used to treat specific types of bacteria, using digital methods for designing RNA antibiotics. The aim is to create a powerful digital platform for the future application of RNA-based antibiotics against various bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·DateFeb 7, 2020

Fly model offers new approach to unraveling 'difficult' pathogen

Researchers at UC San Diego created transgenic fruit flies to study the effects of CDTa toxin on host cells, revealing a collapse of networks essential for nutrient absorption. The fly model mimics symptoms in human C. difficile-infected patients, offering a potential avenue for novel therapies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournaliScience·DateFeb 7, 2020

Microplastics are new homes for microbes in the Caribbean

Marine bacteria colonize microplastics, using them as artificial reefs, while some diatoms exhibit a preference for specific plastic types. Microplastics may serve as vehicles for toxic organisms, affecting marine life.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalLimnology and Oceanography Letters·DateFeb 7, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Princeton's Bonnie Bassler receives $500,000 Gruber Genetics Prize

Geneticist Bonnie Bassler received the $500,000 Gruber Genetics Prize for her pioneering research on quorum sensing, a process by which bacteria communicate using molecular languages. Her discoveries have expanded our understanding of the microbial world and opened up new approaches to promoting health and preventing disease.

SourceYale University·DateFeb 7, 2020

Canine detection of crop pathogen

A recent study has trained dogs to detect citrus crops infected by the bacterium Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas) via smell. The canines achieved detection rates of over 99% accuracy, outperforming conventional methods in simulating disease control scenarios.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 3, 2020

Trained dogs are the most efficient way to hunt citrus industry's biggest threat

Trained dogs can identify infected trees within two weeks of inoculation and distinguish the citrus greening pathogen from other pathogens. This method is more efficient than currently USDA-approved methods, such as PCR tests, which detect less than 3% of infections.

SourceUS Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 3, 2020
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.

Bacteria engineered to protect bees from pests and pathogens

Scientists develop genetically engineered bacteria to target Varroa mites and deformed wing virus, increasing survival rates by up to 70%. The approach could one day scale up for agricultural use, improving bee health and food production.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalScience·DateJan 30, 2020

Autonomous microtrap for pathogens

Scientists have developed a self-propelled chemical trap to corner and destroy pathogens in body fluids, reducing the need for antibiotics. The device uses a magnesium metal engine propelled by hydrogen bubbles, trapping bacteria with an acid-soluble polymer cage that releases a toxin to kill them.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 30, 2020