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Atomic structure of a staphylococcal bacteriophage using cryo-electron microscopy

Researchers have gained a better understanding of the structures and functions of Andhra gene products, paving the way for custom phages for therapeutic applications. The high-resolution knowledge of the virus structure is crucial for developing targeted treatments against Staphylococcus epidermidis infections.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 16, 2022
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.

Molecules found in mucus could prevent cholera infection

MIT researchers have identified molecules found in mucus that can block cholera infection by interfering with the genes that cause the microbe to switch into a harmful state. The protective molecules, known as glycans, prevent Vibrio cholerae from producing the toxin that usually leads to severe diarrhea.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateDec 12, 2022

“Harmless” Listeria species developing pathogenic resistance

A study found that 'harmless' Listeria innocua strains are developing resistance to temperature, pH, dehydration and other stresses, as well as hypervirulence similar to pathogenic L. monocytogenes. The strains were collected from raw, dried and processed meats at commercial food processing facilities in South Africa.

SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 5, 2022

New Collaborative Research Centre for JMU

A new collaborative research centre, DECIDE, will investigate the interactions between pathogens and the human immune system, aiming to improve treatment strategies. The centre combines research on various bacteria, viruses, and fungi, and will involve numerous young researchers.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·DateNov 25, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Tick-borne pathogens increasingly widespread in Central Canada

Researchers have detected five emerging tick-borne pathogens in Central Canada, including those causing Lyme disease and babesiosis. Climate change and habitat fragmentation contribute to the spread of these pathogens, highlighting the need for increased awareness and protection measures.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalVector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 17, 2022
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.

Having good friendships may make for a healthier gut microbiome

A new study on rhesus macaques reveals a strong link between social connections and the abundance of beneficial gut bacteria. Monkeys with more sociable behavior have a higher presence of microbes like Faecalibacterium, which has anti-inflammatory properties.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 11, 2022

A new nanoparticle to act at the heart of cells

Researchers have developed a transport nanoparticle to deliver an anti-inflammatory drug, Necrosulfonamide (NSA), directly into macrophages to combat inflammatory overactivation. The mesoporous silica nanoparticle is fully biodegradable and non-toxic, showing remarkable efficacy in reducing inflammation.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·TypeNews article·DateNov 8, 2022

Gut parasites may increase onward transmission of respiratory bugs

Co-infection with gut parasites increases shedding of respiratory bugs like Bordetella bacterium, leading to higher probability of onward transmission. This study in rabbits has broad implications for human populations and suggests targeting treatment of helminths could be an effective way to reduce disease outbreaks.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateNov 8, 2022
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.

A new weapon against antibiotic-resistant bacteria

A new treatment option for multi-resistant bacteria has been identified by a UNIGE team, which uses the drug edoxudine to weaken the defence mechanisms of Klebsiella pneumoniae, making it easier to eliminate. This approach could be a game-changer in the fight against antibiotic resistance.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeNews article·DateNov 4, 2022

When tapas can cause harm: large listeriosis outbreak in Spain

A large listeriosis outbreak in southern Spain was linked to contaminated stuffed pork, which led to a public health alert and the implementation of post-exposure prophylaxis for pregnant women. The outbreak resulted in 207 confirmed cases and five miscarriages, highlighting the risk of Listeria contamination in ready-to-eat foods.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·DateOct 28, 2022

Infection research: Antibodies prevent cell infection

Researchers have successfully blocked the adhesion mechanism of Bartonella henselae bacteria, preventing cell infection. The discovery offers a promising new approach to combat highly resistant infectious agents like Acinetobacter baumannii.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2022
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.

Selection of human immune-related genes was driven by the Black Death

Research found that the Black Death drove changes in immune-related genetic variants, affecting disease susceptibility. A specific gene variant, ERAP2, was associated with increased protection against the plague, but also linked to autoimmune diseases like Crohn's disease.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNature·DateOct 19, 2022

Throwing tomatoes at bacteria

Researchers at ITQB NOVA extract bactericidal mixtures from tomato peels using a fast, simple, and sustainable process. The extracts show effectiveness against pathogenic bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. This breakthrough has the potential to provide antimicrobial properties to biomaterials.

SourceInstituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier da Universidade NOVA de Lisboa ITQB NOVA·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateOct 18, 2022

The missing link: Fatty acid metabolism impacts plant immunity

A recent study by Zhenzhen Zhao and colleagues found that Arabidopsis plants lacking Acyl Carrier Protein 1 (ACP1) are more resistant to bacterial pathogen Pseudomonas syringae. ACP1 is essential for maintaining hormone homeostasis, which affects plant stress responses.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·DateOct 13, 2022
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.

Immunologic defect may leave some vulnerable to rare bacterial infection

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have discovered a rare T cell defect tied to the risk of developing MAC disease. People with this defect have fewer specialized Th1* cells, which robs them of an effective immune response to MAC bacteria.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 3, 2022
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.

Study demonstrates for the first time that ticks weaken skin's immune response

A study by MedUni Vienna's Department of Dermatology reveals that tick saliva inhibits the skin's defense function, making it easier for pathogens to multiply. Climate change increases the danger from ticks, which now pose a threat in higher-altitude regions of Austria and well into late autumn.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 28, 2022

Symbiotic bacteria protect beetle larvae from pathogens

Research reveals that symbiotic bacteria, Burkholderia gladioli, produce antifungal compound lagriamide to protect Lagria beetles' eggs, larvae, and pupae from fungal infections. The bacterial community remains intact during molting stages, providing crucial defense against pathogens.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateSep 27, 2022

Gel treats gum disease by fighting inflammation

A new study led by NYU researchers has developed a topical gel that targets the succinate receptor to suppress inflammation, reduce bacterial imbalance, and prevent bone loss. The treatment has shown promise in reducing gum disease symptoms, including inflammation and tooth loss.

SourceNew York University·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 20, 2022
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.

'Silent’ mutations help bacteria to evade antibiotics

Researchers at Imperial College London discovered a 'silent' mutation in bacteria that helps them evade antibiotics. The mutation alters the structure of an mRNA intermediate, preventing ribosomes from producing protein, and has arisen independently several times globally.

SourceImperial College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 12, 2022

Chlamydia’s stealthy cloaking device identified

Researchers at Duke University have discovered a protein called GarD that cloaks Chlamydia bacteria from the host cell's immune system, allowing it to evade detection and elimination. Mutating this protein makes the bacteria vulnerable to destruction, offering new avenues for treatment.

SourceDuke University·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 2022

How the brain’s housekeeper malfunctions during bacterial meningitis

Research at Karolinska Institutet reveals the glymphatic system malfunctions during bacterial meningitis, causing a buildup of toxic garbage that damages brain cells. The study found increased signs of neuroinflammation and neuronal damage in rats infected with Streptococcus pneumoniae.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalmBio·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 29, 2022
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.

Keeping Kermit: New clues to protecting frogs from deadly Bd fungus

A new study from the University of South Australia shows that captive frogs can be protected from the deadly fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) through natural skin shedding processes. However, captivity also reduces skin bacteria diversity and richness, potentially affecting the frogs' resilience to pathogens.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalTransactions of the Royal Society of South Australia·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 28, 2022

Plants reprogram their cells to fight invaders. Here's how

Researchers have discovered the key components in plant cells that trigger 'wartime' protein production in response to pathogens. This mechanism allows plants to rapidly produce defense proteins while balancing resources between growth and defense, a delicate process that could inform strategies for creating disease-resistant crops.

SourceDuke University·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 25, 2022

New weapon targets antibiotic resistance

A new class of light-activated hemithioindigo molecules developed by Rice University scientists kill specific Gram-positive bacteria and their biofilms. The molecules induce reactive oxygen species that chemically attack and destroy drug-resistant cells, offering a safer alternative to conventional antibiotics.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 25, 2022

Glowing tags reveal split-second activity of pathogenic circuitry

Researchers at Rice University have created a new optical tool called homo-FRET that allows them to observe the real-time activity of two-component systems in bacteria. This breakthrough enables scientists to study the behavior of deadly pathogens and antibiotic-resistant bacteria, shedding light on their mechanisms and potential targe...

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 25, 2022

Plant immune systems can adapt to non-living environmental stressors, a new study reveals

A recent study led by Eliza Loo found that plant immune receptors and signaling components confer salt tolerance even in plants challenged by non-pathogenic microbes. This suggests that plants can sense and initiate adaptive responses to abiotic stresses upon detecting alterations in cues presented by plant-inhabiting microbes.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·DateAug 24, 2022
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.

Scientists create a DNA test that identifies Lyme disease in horses

A Rutgers scientist has developed a highly sensitive DNA test that can detect Lyme disease in horses, a condition that can cause long-term complications. The test, called genomic hybrid capture assay, was tested on a sick horse and successfully identified the pathogen, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2022

Cousin of crop-killing bacteria mutating rapidly

A newly identified species of Liberibacter, a family of bacteria known for causing citrus greening disease, is rapidly evolving its ability to infect insect hosts. The research team found 21 genes associated with infectious qualities and identified mutations affecting pilus proteins that allow the bacteria to move into host insects.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·DateAug 12, 2022

How bacteria defuse hypothiocyanite, an antimicrobial weapon of the innate immune system

Researchers discovered a novel role for an E. coli enzyme in reducing the toxic effects of hypothiocyanite, a key antimicrobial released by the human immune system. This finding has implications for diseases like cystic fibrosis and inflammatory bowel disease, as it suggests that various bacteria can evade this powerful oxidant.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 10, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Drought increases microbe-laden dust landing in Sierras

Research shows higher concentrations of pathogenic dust landing at lower elevations in the Sierra Nevada mountains, carrying fungi and bacteria that can cause crop failures and human respiratory disease. The study highlights the increasing threat of microbe-laden dust as the Earth dries out.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateAug 9, 2022

Study finds genetic method for identifying hundreds of disease agents ‘promising’

A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers reveals a promising genetic method for identifying hundreds of disease agents using next-generation sequencing. The Respiratory Pathogen Infectious Diseases/Antimicrobial Resistance Panel (RPIP) system shows near-comparability to traditional diagnostics in identifying pathogens.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Microbiology·DateAug 9, 2022

Oil-based systems show promise for eradicating salmonella on food production machinery

A new study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology suggests that oil formulations with food-grade organic acids can kill dried Salmonella on stainless steel surfaces. This approach has the potential to replace water-based cleaning methods, which promote microbial growth and are often challenging to use.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 8, 2022
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.

Bacteria use genetic switch to defend death by metals

Researchers discovered a genetic switch in group B streptococcus that helps it resist metal stress, including zinc and copper. This 'cross-talk' mechanism allows the bacterium to survive in the human body's immune system.

SourceGriffith University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2022

Safe steps for using probiotics to revive biodiversity

A newly published framework outlines steps for administering probiotics to wildlife, prioritizing native species, effective dosages, and delivery systems. The goal is to restore beneficial bacteria and protect key symbiotic relationships, while considering potential risks and side effects.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJul 31, 2022

Researchers discover sophisticated mechanism that bacteria use to resist antibiotics

Researchers have discovered a new mechanism that some bacteria use to evade rifamycin antibiotics, showing antimicrobial resistance is more complex and evolved than previously recognized. The discovery has implications for finding new antibiotics and combating the growing global health threat of antimicrobial resistance.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2022
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.

Bacterial community signatures reveal how cities urbanize water sources

A study reveals urban waters exhibit distinct microbial signatures compared to rural lakes, indicating humanization and eutrophication's effects on ecosystems. This shift may increase the risk of pathogens and contamination in urban areas.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 25, 2022

Home and hospital healthcare could be in 'hot water'

A new study by Flinders University experts warns that some drinking water treatment methods may be ineffective against certain waterborne pathogens, posing a threat to immune-compromised individuals. Regular maintenance checks and cleaning of shower and tap faucets can help reduce the risk of waterborne infections in home care.

SourceFlinders University·JournalCurrent Opinion in Infectious Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateJul 20, 2022
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.

Did gonorrhea give us grandparents?

A new study suggests that a unique gene variant supporting cognitive health in older humans may have first emerged to protect against infectious pathogens like gonorrhea. This variant, linked to CD33, allows brain immune cells to break down damaged brain cells and amyloid plaques associated with Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJul 18, 2022

Hidden genes may be tapped for new antibiotics

Rice University bioscientists have developed a novel approach to control the expression of 'silent' genes in bacteria using CRISPR technology. This strategy could lead to the discovery of new antibiotics and has potential applications in antifungal and anticancer agents, as well as agriculture.

SourceRice University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 11, 2022

Could a phytochemical derived from vegetables like broccoli be the answer to antibiotic resistant pathogens?

Researchers at Ben-Gurion University have found a phytochemical derived from broccoli that breaks down biofilms protecting antibiotic-resistant pathogens, enabling eradication rates of up to 94% when combined with antibiotics. The compound also accelerates wound healing and is being further developed for commercialization.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalPharmaceutics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 11, 2022

Familiarity breeds exempt: Why staph vaccines don’t work in humans

Scientists have found that prior exposure to Staphylococcus aureus prevents effective vaccination due to immune response memory. To overcome this, the research suggests targeting only the protective component of the protein IsdB, generating a more effective vaccine against MRSA.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateJul 7, 2022

Understanding how microbiota thrive in their human hosts

Gut bacteria produce inositol lipids, vital for cellular processes in humans, and these substances impact the symbiosis between bacteria and their hosts. The discovery sheds light on how gut bacteria thrive in their human hosts.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 7, 2022
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.

Photorhabdus luminescens – a true all-rounder: Insect pathogenic bacterium also helps to combat fungal infestation

Research at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz reveals Photorhabdus luminescens can protect plants from fungal infection, colonizing the fungus's hyphae and breaking down its cell wall. This secondary cell form also promotes plant growth and offers new potential for biological crop protection.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateJul 6, 2022

Bacterial vesicles coated on gold nanoparticles to combat TB

Researchers have designed a new vaccine candidate using bacterial vesicles coated on gold nanoparticles to deliver antigens and stimulate an immune response against tuberculosis. The use of outer membrane vesicles has shown promise in inducing a better immune response compared to traditional subunit vaccines.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalBiomaterials Advances·DateJul 6, 2022

Turning up the heat to unlock Cas13's potential

A heat-loving bacterium's Cas13 protein enables specific detection of SARS-CoV-2 and other viruses in a one-pot assay. The technology has been patented and clinically validated, with the aim of mass production and commercialization.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 3, 2022
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.