Scientists at University of Illinois and Mie University develop monoclonal antibodies to prevent lung cell death in mouse models of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and acute respiratory disease syndrome. Non-invasive diagnostic tools also presented could aid in predicting disease progression and identifying patients at risk.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 23, 2022
Researchers at University of Utah Health discovered a novel mechanism in which infectious bacteria adjust to environmental stress, leading to improved survival rates. The study's findings suggest that altering the precision with which bacteria make proteins can help them thrive in stressful conditions.
SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 23, 2022
A new study reveals that the curved shape of a predatory bacterium enables it to efficiently invade and consume harmful bugs like E.coli and Salmonella. The bacterium, called Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus, uses a specialized protein to sculpt its own shape, allowing it to fit into prey cells and grow inside them.
SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A study found that higher doses of antibiotics are needed to eliminate bacterial infections with other microbes present. Researchers developed a model of the human airways to replicate poly-microbial infections, which often persist despite treatment in people with cystic fibrosis and other lung diseases.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateMar 18, 2022
Researchers discovered a link between the immune system and microbiome in primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), a liver disease associated with inflammatory bowel disease. MAIT cells activated by bile-derived pathogens could play an important role in PSC pathophysiology, offering potential new treatment implications.
SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 16, 2022
Researchers at Institut Pasteur discovered a mechanism that enables infected cells to evade immune responses and infect the brain, leading to life-long persistence of bacteria. This finding has implications for understanding other intracellular pathogens and developing new therapeutic strategies.
SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 16, 2022
A new UMaine study shows that a specific combination of pathogens and drugs can effectively treat fungal lung infections. Researchers found that Pseudomonas aeruginosa works with fluconazole to eliminate drug tolerance and clear Candida albicans infection, suggesting that nutrient availability can impact treatment efficacy.
SourceUniversity of Maine·JournalInfection and Immunity·DateMar 15, 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.
A recent study confirms that tuberculosis strains associated with marine mammals were also present in inland populations in pre-colonial South America. The researchers found three new ancient TB genomes from human remains in the highlands of Colombia, which resemble a TB variant found in seals and sea lions.
SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 11, 2022
A recent study found that rainfall significantly affects the abundance of Vibrio vulnificus in the Ala Wai Canal, with moderate rainfall leading to high concentrations of the bacterium. The researchers suggest that while exposure is still a risk, precautions such as washing off with soap and water can minimize the danger.
SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 2, 2022
Research suggests that genetic material from E. coli bacteria in farm animals may contribute to the evolution of deadly pandemic strains. The study found that ColV plasmids in pigs, cattle, and chickens can increase the likelihood of antimicrobial resistance and extra-intestinal infections in humans.
SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 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.
The WHO European Region saw a decrease in reported cases of syphilis, gonorrhoea and chlamydia, but data availability varies widely among non-EU/EEA countries. Georgia had the highest syphilis case rate, while EU/EEA countries had lower rates.
SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 25, 2022
The WHO European Region has seen significant success in diphtheria immunization, with high coverage rates and only a few reported cases. However, suboptimal surveillance systems and inadequate laboratory capacity may contribute to the persistence of sporadic cases.
SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 24, 2022
A recent review highlights the effects of different intestinal bacteria on colorectal cancer, exploring new therapies for disease prevention and treatment. Beneficial probiotics, such as Akkermansia muciniphila and Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, exhibit anticancer properties and reduce CRC cell proliferation.
SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 21, 2022
A new protein group has been identified that functions as a switch to regulate biological activity, found in all domains of life and essential for cellular activities such as gene expression and metabolism. The discovery opens up new possibilities for the development of novel drugs targeting these switches.
SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 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.
Tomato plant varieties resistant to bacterial wilt have the ability to restrict bacterial movement in the plant. Researchers discovered that these plants synthesize reinforcement coatings containing ligno-suberin and related phenolic compounds, providing a physico-chemical barrier against pathogen colonization.
SourceCentre for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG)·JournalNew Phytologist·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2022
Researchers discovered a signaling mechanism allowing intracellular bacteria like Salmonella to outmaneuver host defenses. By triggering macrophage death and activating the complement system, these bacteria can safely deliver themselves into another macrophage. This 'hack' enables them to persist within infected hosts.
SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022
Researchers have gained a deeper understanding of how bacteria use the type VI secretion system to develop toxins for battle. The discovery reveals that toxins are encapsulated in a capsule secured by a cork-like plug, which can be released upon mechanical force.
SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology·JournalPLOS Pathogens·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022
Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a cost-effective and convenient method to apply an antimicrobial silver coating to textiles using polyphenols found in wine and chocolate. The coating maintains its properties even after multiple washes and has potential applications in hospitals and other sterile environments.
SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2022
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.
Scientists at Washington State University have discovered a novel theory that the innate immune system can respond differently to specific pathogens. This quality, known as immunological specificity, is driven by the nervous system and could provide a basis for finetuning an experimental treatment to fight infection.
SourceWashington State University·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2022
A new study reveals that the fungus Rhizopus partners with a bacteria called Ralstonia to evade immune cells and predators in soil. This partnership strategy is also used by humans' own immune cells, allowing Rhizopus to cause disease in humans.
SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 7, 2022
Researchers at San Diego State University have discovered a novel way bacteria infect cells by producing long threads, which grows up to 100 times the size of a bacterium in 30 hours. This mechanism allows the bacteria to rapidly infect multiple cells and access more nutrients for growth.
SourceSan Diego State University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 4, 2022
A recent study found that cover cropping can reduce the population of Pseudomonas syringae, a common bacterial pathogen affecting agricultural crops. The researchers also discovered an increase in beneficial microbes such as Sphingomonas and Methylobacterium, which have been used as biocontrol agents against pathogens.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytobiomes Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 1, 2022
A new genomics study has helped guide the development of vaccines against Shigella, a leading cause of severe diarrhoea in children. The research revealed the extent of genomic diversity among Shigella species, highlighting challenges to current vaccine approaches.
SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2022
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.
A new standardised test has been developed to accurately determine the transmission of VREfm, enabling rapid identification of potential outbreaks and early intervention. The framework uses genomic analysis to compare bacterial genomes and infer transmission links, facilitating global deployment for outbreak detection and investigation.
SourceThe Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 26, 2022
Researchers at TTUHSC developed novel hydrophilic nanoparticles that target bacterial membranes, killing pathogens while sparing mammalian cells. The nanoantibiotics' size-dependent activity reveals a new blueprint for developing non-toxic and environmentally friendly antibiotics.
SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateJan 20, 2022
Researchers found that smart windows with dynamic tinting can completely disinfect surfaces within 24 hours, reducing bacterial growth rates and viability. In contrast, traditional windows with blinds blocked almost all daylight, promoting contamination on glass, plastic, and fabric surfaces.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalLife Sciences·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 19, 2022
Researchers have discovered that living filtration membranes made from kombucha cultures can resist fouling and maintain faster filtering rates compared to conventional polymer membranes. This breakthrough could lead to an inexpensive, biodegradable, and effective way to treat water, tackling issues such as biofilm formation and clogging.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS ES&T Water·DateJan 19, 2022
Rice University researchers developed a microfluidic platform to analyze how infectious bacteria evolve resistance to antibiotics. The platform allows for controlled environments and fine-tuning of conditions, revealing previously unknown pathways to resistance.
SourceRice University·JournalACS Infectious Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 18, 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.
Researchers found that half of Pseudomonas syringae strains benefited from the presence of aphids, but only the honeydew itself boosted bacterial populations. The study suggests using this phenomenon to develop alternative pest control methods.
SourceCornell University·JournalThe American Naturalist·DateJan 13, 2022
Researchers found that inhibiting gasdermin D, a protein involved in septic patients' organ lesions, can prevent multiple-organ damage and improve prognosis. Disulfiram, a drug originally indicated for alcohol dependence, was shown to inhibit gasdermin D and reduce tissue injury.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBlood·DateJan 12, 2022
A recent study by researchers at Case Western Reserve University found that Candida tropicalis fungus can trigger chronic inflammation in the gut microbiome of Crohn's disease patients. This imbalance of fungi and bacteria can create a predisposition to inflammatory bowel disease.
SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateJan 10, 2022
A new study by the University of Exeter reveals two previously unknown Vibrio species in UK waters, which can cause gastroenteritis and skin infections in humans. The increasing range of these bacteria also threatens marine biodiversity and the seafood industry, with potential economic costs estimated at £6 billion annually.
SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalWater Research·TypeObservational study·DateJan 10, 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.
Researchers have discovered a molecular mechanism that contributed to the emergence of the seventh cholera pandemic. The study found that modified Vibrio cholerae bacteria used their type 6 secretion system (T6SS) to outcompete and kill older strains, leading to their displacement.
SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 6, 2022
Researchers found three protective cultures effective against Listeria monocytogenes, which can cause life-threatening listeriosis. These cultures disrupt pathogen survival and attachment to cells, making them a promising solution for cheese producers.
SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalLWT·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 23, 2021
New research combines antibiotics and phage therapy to cure infections more effectively and reduce antibiotic use. The study found that bacteriostatic antibiotics trigger CRISPR-Cas adaptive immunity in bacteria, increasing the chances of treatment efficacy.
SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2021
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 study reveals that Xanthomonas euvesicatoria has evolved to evade the immune system of tomato plants by changing a single amino acid in its flagellin proteins. This finding poses significant challenges for breeding disease-resistant tomato varieties, forcing farmers to rely on fungicides and copper treatments.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·DateDec 20, 2021
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have discovered that resistant bacteria can hide resistance genes in inactive bacteria within biofilms, creating a reservoir of resistance that can be drawn upon when antibiotics are not present. This new understanding challenges the long-held assumption that resistant bacteria lose their res...
SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·Journalnpj Biofilms and Microbiomes·DateDec 16, 2021
Researchers identified 'pre-resistance' signs in bacteria, predicting future resistance to antibiotics. This discovery allows doctors to select the best treatments for bacterial infections and paves the way for personalized genomic therapy.
SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateDec 15, 2021
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.
Scientists have measured the speed of Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus, a bacterium causing citrus greening disease. The bacteria can colonize a tree in around 80-100 days, faster than symptoms appear, making it difficult to control.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytopathology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 14, 2021
Research at University of Basel discovered that certain areas in tissue allow bacteria to survive despite antibiotic therapy. Immune system plays a critical role in eradicating bacteria, and boosting defenses with immune therapy can lead to more effective clearance.
SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 13, 2021
A study of Edo-era Japanese skeletons reveals a prevalence of periodontal disease similar to modern times, with distinct bacterial species. Researchers analyzed dental calculus from 12 human skeletons and compared their oral microbiomes to modern samples, shedding light on the evolution of the oral microbiome.
SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·DateDec 9, 2021
Scientists have developed an enzyme that degrades the capsule surrounding the bacterium that causes anthrax, reducing virulence and protecting mice from infection. The treatment, known as PEG-CapD-CPS334C, is a promising avenue for treating multidrug-resistant anthrax and other bacterial infections.
SourceUS Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 8, 2021
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.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytobiomes Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
A study found that long-term cannabis smokers have increased levels of Actinomyces meyeri in their saliva, which correlates with the length of cannabis use. This bacterium was shown to decrease activity and increase beta-amyloid production in mice, suggesting a link between oral microbiome disruption and brain health.
SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalEBioMedicine·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2021
Researchers at USC developed a new peptide that stimulates the host's immune response to fight bacterial infections, offering an alternative to antibiotics. The peptide, MTD12813, is highly effective in clearing infections and modulates inflammation, reducing the risk of complications.
SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2021
Scientists at Virginia Tech have identified a critical modification in the protective molecular bag of the Lyme disease-causing bacterium, allowing it to move effectively and cause disease. The discovery, published in Nature Microbiology, reveals that the bacteria acquires this unique sugar modification from ticks.
SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Microbiology·DateNov 30, 2021
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.
SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalJournal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2021
Scientists have studied how different drugs affect Pseudomonas aeruginosa, revealing what makes it resistant to antibiotics. A new experimental substance called CHIR-090 has shown promise in blocking the production of sugar-lipid compounds, a previously unexploited target for treatment.
SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateNov 29, 2021
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 discovered a specific type of gut bacteria in bees that can improve memory, with bumblebees showing enhanced memory when fed this bacteria. The study suggests a causal link between the gut microbiome and cognitive abilities, opening up possibilities for similar effects in humans.
SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 25, 2021
Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham discovered the mechanism of secretion and trafficking of Mycobacterium tuberculosis' toxin TNT, which kills over 1 million people annually. The ESX-4 type VII secretion system plays a crucial role in transporting TNT across cell membranes.
SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 24, 2021
Scientists have clarified phytochrome's atomic-scale resolution, unlocking its role in regulating bacterial pathogenicities. The study provides a new photoactivation model explaining the signaling mechanism of black rot disease.
SourceNagoya University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 24, 2021
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.
A study by Weill Cornell Medicine investigators found that antibodies secreted in the gut help control pathogenic forms of gut fungi like Candida albicans. However, patients with Crohn's disease often have impaired antibody function, leading to an overgrowth of harmful fungi.
SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature Microbiology·DateNov 23, 2021
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have uncovered important details about Shigella's translocon, a pore that injects bacterial proteins into infected cells. The findings may help develop an effective strategy to block this critical component of infection and prevent diseases like dysentery.
SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalmBio·TypeObservational study·DateNov 23, 2021
Researchers discovered that these 'meat-eating' bees have a unique gut microbiome enriched with acid-loving bacteria, similar to those found in vultures. The bees' ability to eat dead bodies is surprising, but they can also store honey and have special chambers for meat storage.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalmBio·DateNov 23, 2021
Researchers at Harvard's Wyss Institute have developed a microfluidic Organ Chip device that accurately models cystic fibrosis lung airway pathology. The model replicates key pathological hallmarks, including mucus layer changes and inflammatory responses, providing a comprehensive preclinical human model for investigating new therapies.
SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalJournal of Cystic Fibrosis·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 19, 2021
Researchers at the University of Texas at Dallas have developed a vaccine method against recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) using metal-organic frameworks. The new approach produces substantially enhanced antibody production and significantly higher survival rates in mice compared to standard vaccine preparation methods.
SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalACS Nano·DateNov 18, 2021
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 study by Anglia Ruskin University has identified potentially dangerous Pseudomonas bacteria in 21% of wild bird faeces collected from locations near the River Cam. The bacteria, which can be passed on to humans through cross-contamination, were resistant to multiple antibiotics.
SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateNov 17, 2021
Scientists at the Max Planck Institute have uncovered how ExoY toxin becomes activated in human cells by binding to actin filaments, leading to devastating enzymatic activity. This discovery sheds light on a crucial molecular mechanism that underlies the pathogenicity of various toxins.
SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021
A rapid same-day test has been developed to identify secondary infections in COVID-19 patients on intensive care, allowing for targeted antibiotic treatment and reduced risk of antimicrobial resistance. The test uses nanopore sequencing technology to analyze bacterial and fungal pathogens present in patient samples.
SourceNIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Guy’s and St Thomas’ and King’s College London·JournalGenome Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 16, 2021
Scientists used computational strategies to evaluate antibiotic candidates, identifying a promising new variant that is up to 56 times more active than existing antibiotics. This approach enables faster and more affordable development of new antibiotics, helping to combat resistance.
SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 9, 2021