Add BrightSurf on Google Email

The cyanide defense: How one bacterium inhibits predators with poison

A South Korean study reveals that the bacterium Chromobacterium piscinae produces cyanide when attacked by a microbial predator, inhibiting its growth without killing it. The researchers suspect that the bacteria use nutrient-rich environments to trigger the production of this protective compound.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateDec 19, 2017
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.

The body's street sweepers

A new study reveals that platelets actively migrate to sites of infection, collecting bacteria into aggregates and facilitating the activation of neutrophils. This active function has significant implications for our understanding of immune defense and potential therapeutic targets for inflammation reactions.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalCell·DateDec 18, 2017

Nanoparticles as a solution against antibiotic resistance?

Scientists from Friedrich Schiller University Jena have developed nanoparticles that transport antibiotics more efficiently to their destination, killing off pathogens without problems. The particles are able to penetrate thick layers of mucus and biofilms, making them a promising solution against antibiotic resistance.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·DateDec 15, 2017

OSU scientist to study living versions of origins-of-life fossils

A team led by OSU professor Kerry McPhail will study stromatolites in South Africa's barrage pools, seeking insights into chemical signaling and metabolite production among ancient microbial communities. The research aims to advance our understanding of the origins of life and develop new medicines.

SourceOregon State University·DateDec 14, 2017

ASU scientists develop new, rapid pipeline for antimicrobials

Researchers at Arizona State University have created a high-throughput technology that can produce up to 1,000 doses of antimicrobial treatments within a week. The system uses synthetic antibodies, or synbodies, which are made from short protein fragments and can be quickly screened against a large number of pathogens.

SourceArizona State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 14, 2017

Specially designed protein fights several species of bacteria

Researchers at Lund University developed a specially designed protein that targets and kills multiple bacterial species, including Gram-positive bacteria. The fusion protein works by removing Factor H from the surface of bacteria, activating the immune system to kill them.

SourceLund University·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateDec 13, 2017
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.

Going undercover to fight tuberculosis

Researchers have developed a new antibiotic, EZ120, that targets the mycomembrane biosynthesis of tuberculosis pathogen Mycobacterium tuberculosis. By inhibiting key enzymes, EZ120 significantly increases the effectiveness of conventional antibiotics, offering a novel approach for tuberculosis treatment.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 8, 2017

Bacteria activate their own killer

Researchers have developed a novel photothermal treatment that leverages the self-activation of certain bacteria to target and kill antibiotic-resistant pathogens. The innovative approach uses a supramolecular radical anion complex that absorbs near-infrared light, generating heat and denaturing proteins in targeted bacteria.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 7, 2017

Scientists find potential weapons for the battle against antibiotic resistance

Researchers found that certain bacterial strains can produce factors that increase or decrease the susceptibility of another bacterium to antibiotics. The study identified three specific factors: LasA, rhamnolipids, and HQNO, which could be used to create new antibiotics or develop genetic tests to detect antibiotic resistance

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalPLOS Biology·DateDec 5, 2017

Celldance videos visualize compelling stories of cell invasion; movement

The ASCB Celldance program premiered two new videos at the 2017 ASCB|EMBO Meeting in Philadelphia. The videos, created by Guillaume Duménil, Dyche Mullins, and Lillian Fritz-Laylin, visualize how pathogens invade the body and proliferate, as well as single cells crawling through complex environments.

SourceAmerican Society for Cell Biology·DateDec 5, 2017
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.

When Listeria monocytogenes goes to sleep....

Researchers discovered Listeria monocytogenes can change its behavior when infecting liver and placenta cells, producing a dormant form that is more tolerant of antibiotics. This finding explains the long incubation period of listeriosis and may lead to new therapeutic strategies.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateDec 1, 2017

Antibiotics may reduce the ability of immune cells to kill bacteria

A recent study found that antibiotics like ciprofloxacin can directly alter the biochemical environment of mouse immune cells during infection, making it harder for them to kill bacteria. This change in environment also led to increased resistance to antibiotics in E. coli bacteria.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateNov 30, 2017
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.

Gastric cancer: A new strategy used by Helicobacter pylori to target mitochondria

Researchers discovered H. pylori's two additional strategies to target mitochondria, which maintain an environment conducive to bacterial proliferation and worsen gastric lesions in mice. The findings suggest new avenues for developing effective strategies to combat H. pylori infection and reduce its pathogenic potential.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 28, 2017

Fighting plant disease at warm temperatures keeps food on the table

Researchers found that high temperatures weaken plant defenses while strengthening bacterial attacks, making plants more vulnerable to infection. However, treatment with a chemical that mimics salicylic acid can effectively protect plants from infection at elevated temperatures.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 27, 2017
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.

World's smallest tape recorder is built from microbes

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have developed a microscopic data recorder using CRISPR-Cas technology, allowing bacteria to monitor their surroundings and record temporal changes. The system has proven its ability to handle multiple signals and record for days.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalScience·DateNov 23, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Nanosponges show promise for potentially blinding eye infections

Researchers have developed nanosponges that can absorb and neutralize toxins secreted by bacteria causing intraocular infections. These engineered nanoparticles, consisting of a polymeric core surrounded by natural red blood cell membranes, demonstrated effectiveness in protecting the retina from damage in animal models.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmSphere·DateNov 22, 2017

Managing antibiotics not enough to reverse resistance

Researchers found that bacteria can quickly share genes to maintain resistance, making it unlikely that reducing antibiotic use will reverse the trend. However, conjugation rates can be disrupted and reversed using existing drugs, paving the way for future development of new treatments.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 22, 2017

Pneumonia: Treatment with vaccines instead of antibiotics

Researchers discovered specific immune cells called B cells play a crucial role in eliminating mycoplasma bacteria from the lungs. Vaccines may be developed to elicit antibody responses protecting against infection, offering an alternative to antibiotics.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateNov 21, 2017
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.

Detailed view of immune proteins could lead to new pathogen-defense strategies

Researchers use cryo-EM to visualize the molecular interface between flagellin and NAIP5, revealing how bacteria are recognized by the immune system. The study found that flagellin is in contact with six different parts of NAIP5, providing new insights into potential strategies for protection from pathogens.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateNov 16, 2017

How the immune system identifies invading bacteria

The mouse immune system uses six different ways to identify invading bacteria, scanning the bacterial protein in detail. This effective immune response helps understand why certain bacteria can evade detection.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalScience·DateNov 16, 2017

Veni vidi vici: How natural killer cells conquer the superbug Klebsiella

Natural killer cells play a crucial role in controlling bacterial growth during lung infections, and their communication with immune response regulators helps orchestrate an antibacterial program. This study provides new insights into the development of novel therapeutics against multidrug-resistant pathogens.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateNov 16, 2017
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.

Model sheds new light on pathogen cooperation

A new model reveals that cooperative contagion processes can lead to more severe spread of infectious diseases, generating abrupt outbreak transitions and multi-stability. This discovery highlights the need for new containment strategies to combat epidemics in realistic systems.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateNov 15, 2017

UT study IDs potential cell receptors to reduce antibiotic resistance

Researchers have identified specific chemical receptors in cells that could deceive bacteria and improve patient response to drugs. The study's findings suggest that targeting these receptors could help adapt antibiotics to better attack infections.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 15, 2017

Researchers identify hormone for treating sepsis

A UC Riverside-led research team has identified the human protein resistin as a potential treatment for sepsis, boosting survival rates to 100% in a mouse model. By binding to TLR4, resistin blocks inflammatory responses and minimizes immune system overdrive.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 13, 2017
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.

Microbial murder mystery solved

Killer cells use a methodical approach to destroy bacterial invaders, inflicting oxidative damage and targeting critical proteins with the deadly enzyme granzyme B. The discovery offers new insights into how immune systems combat bacteria, potentially leading to the development of new antimicrobial drugs.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalCell·DateNov 8, 2017

How Helicobacter pylori causes gastric cancer

Researchers at FAU have identified two mechanisms by which H. pylori destroys the stomach's protective layer, allowing bacteria to access deeper tissue layers and inflict further damage. The team also discovered that the injected bacterial toxin reprograms host cells, making them potentially cancerous.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateNov 7, 2017
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.

Revealed new target for development of antibiotics aimed at highly resistant bacteria

Researchers from Brazil and France identify a new target for developing antibiotics against highly resistant bacteria, inhibiting the interaction of two key proteins involved in cell wall elongation. The discovery paves the way for the development of antibiotics with a different action mechanism, offering hope in combating drug-resista...

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 6, 2017

UMD School of Medicine researchers studying new approach to antibiotic resistance

Researchers at UMD School of Medicine are studying a new approach to tackle antibiotic resistance by targeting the immune system's response to harmful bacteria. They aim to prevent inflammation and white blood cell activation using special molecules or peptides, which could pave the way for treating a wide range of infections.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·DateNov 1, 2017

Landmark discovery turns marathon of evolution into a sprint

A research team has discovered a technique called Accelerated Evolution that rapidly generates valuable natural products by mimicking bacterial evolution processes. This breakthrough could lead to hundreds of new compounds and revolutionize natural product drug discovery.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 31, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

New study identifies mechanism bacteria use to attach to surfaces

Researchers discovered that bacteria use pili as their sense of touch when interacting with surfaces, leading to a new understanding of bacterial surface sensing. This mechanism may help scientists develop strategies to control bacterial growth, either beneficially in bioreactors or pathogenically on medical devices.

SourceThe City University of New York·JournalScience·DateOct 27, 2017

Bacteria have a sense of touch

Researchers discovered bacteria possess a 'sense of touch' enabling them to recognize surfaces and induce adhesive production in response to mechanical stimulation. This mechanism helps pathogens colonize host cells, making it crucial for understanding infectious diseases.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalScience·DateOct 26, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Helicobacter pylori: Dodging the bullet

A recent study found that Helicobacter pylori's mutation rate is high from the beginning of infection, making it challenging to develop an effective vaccine. The bacterium's genetic diversity can also inhibit the production of antigens in a potential vaccine.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateOct 25, 2017

Study reveals connection between microbiome and autoimmune disorders

A recent study published in Cell reveals a new mechanism in the gut microbiome that regulates pro- and anti-inflammatory cells, potentially preventing inflammatory bowel disease. The research also suggests that changes in the gut microbiome can increase the risk of other autoimmune disorders.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalCell·DateOct 20, 2017
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.

Gut bacterium indirectly causes symptoms by altering fruit fly microbiome

A new study found that CagA, a protein produced by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, can alter the population of microbes living in the fruit fly gut, leading to disease symptoms. The researchers suggest that manipulating the balance of microbes in the gut may be able to mitigate the harmful effects of infection with H. pylori.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateOct 19, 2017

UMass Amherst tick testing lab receives grant to study new disease

The UMass Amherst TickReport service is expanding its public health mission with a recent NIH grant and collaboration with L2 Diagnostics to study Borrelia miyamotoi, a tick-transmitted bacterium causing infection and disease in the US, Europe, and Asia. Researchers will conduct human testing on people who submitted B. miyamotoi-positi...

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateOct 17, 2017

Ocean atmosphere rife with microbes

Researchers found over 100 air samples from tropical and subtropical regions revealing an average of 67,000 prokaryotes per cubic meter of sampled air over the oceans compared to 190,000 bacteria per cubic meter of air over land.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 16, 2017

Germ-free hatching eggs: An alternative to formaldehyde application

Researchers have successfully tested a pre-industrial laboratory scale method using microorganisms as natural antagonists to eliminate up to 99.6% of germs from hatching eggs. The bacteria producing pyrazines demonstrated efficiency comparable to that of formaldehyde fumigation.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 16, 2017
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.

Gut fungi could play a role in obesity epidemic

A new study suggests that high-fat diets can change gut fungi and potentially contribute to the development of obesity. The research shows significant differences in fungal and bacterial communities between mice fed standard and high-fat diets.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmSphere·DateOct 11, 2017

A new kind of influenza vaccine: One shot might do the trick

Researchers have developed a new influenza vaccine that uses a nanoscale, controlled-release capsule to provide quick and long-lasting protection against pandemic A strains. The vaccine is based on the M2 protein, which remains constant across different flu viruses.

SourceCornell University·JournalVaccine·DateOct 8, 2017
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 approach may hold the key to treating antibiotic-resistant bacteria

Researchers discovered a simple chemical mimic of host defense peptides can cure bacterial infections, either alone or in combination with traditional antibiotics. The study suggests new alternatives for treating life-threatening bacterial threats.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateOct 4, 2017