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Living together: Microbial communities are more than the sum of their parts

Researchers found that most microbial pairs fail to coexist, challenging the long-held hypothesis that every pair of microbes must also coexist in a bigger community. This study highlights the need for new predictive tools to engineer successful microbial communities, essential for biotechnology applications.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateJul 20, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

SMART researchers uncover novel bacterial communication system to combat antimicrobial resistance

A novel stress signalling system has been discovered by SMART researchers, enabling bacteria cells to adapt and survive against the immune system and certain antibiotics. The breakthrough discovery of RlmN as a stress sensor may lead to the development of new therapies to combat antimicrobial resistance.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 19, 2023

Gut bacteria linked to fatty deposits in heart arteries

Researchers found a strong association between certain gut bacteria and coronary atherosclerotic plaques, which can lead to heart attacks. The study analyzed gut bacteria and cardiac imaging data from over 8,900 participants and identified Streptococcus species as key players.

SourceUppsala University·JournalCirculation·TypeObservational study·DateJul 12, 2023

Bacteria in kitchen may not be as harmful as you think

Researchers identified 8 bacterial genera commonly associated with environmental sources, known as core microbiota, which persisted despite differences between kitchens. These microbes were linked to kitchen design and cleaning practices, suggesting potential for improved hygiene.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateJul 11, 2023

D-amino acids play a role in stress-induced response in cholera bacterium

Researchers at Umea University discover new role for D-amino acids in stress-driven bacterial chemotaxis, revealing complex ecological systems and potential strategies to manipulate bacterial populations. D-Arginine plays a multifaceted role in shaping microbial communities and influencing niche selection.

SourceUmea University·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJun 27, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study identifies a protein that could be a target for a vaccine against spotted fever

Researchers at the University of São Paulo identified a protein in Amblyomma ticks essential to their survival while feeding, making it a promising target for developing a vaccine. The study found that silencing gene expression of an inhibitor of apoptosis protein reduced bacterial proliferation and made ticks more resistant to infection.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalParasites & Vectors·DateJun 7, 2023

How studying poop may help us boost white rhino populations

A recent study found significant differences in the gut microbiome of female southern white rhinos that reproduced successfully versus those that did not. The researchers identified a particular genus of microbes that may be limiting reproductive success in captive breeding programs.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAnimal Microbiome·TypeObservational study·DateJun 5, 2023
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.

Gut microbiome changes linked to precancerous colon polyps

Researchers found specific bacterial species significantly associated with the development of tubular adenomas and sessile serrated adenomas. The study suggests a potential opportunity to intervene through diet or probiotics to prevent colorectal cancer.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeObservational study·DateMay 31, 2023

Research project analyzes medical, nutritional and environmental applications of new Antarctic bacteria

Researchers discovered two new psychrophilic species of bacteria with cold-adapted enzymes, which can be used in biotechnology to produce refrigerated foods, improve detergent quality, and remove pollutants from cold environments. The study was conducted in collaboration with Uruguayan scientists and supported by FAPESP.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateMay 30, 2023

Bacteria are vital for the diversity and survival of insects

Bacteria play a crucial role in providing insects with vital nutrients like vitamin B, enabling them to survive on unbalanced diets and exploit new food resources. This has led to significant diversification of plant-feeding insect species.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMay 29, 2023

How an ocean-fertilising bacterium forms aggregates

Researchers discovered that Trichodesmium filaments form aggregates through a simple behavioural strategy, controlling density and light penetration. This mechanism enables the formation of visible aggregates with unique shapes, providing essential nutrients for other marine organisms.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateMay 25, 2023
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.

Nature favors creatures in largest and smallest sizes

A study by McGill University and University of British Columbia found that the planet's biomass is concentrated in organisms at either end of the size spectrum. The researchers discovered a universal upper limit for maximum body size across multiple species and environments, with similar sizes reached by trees, fish, and other organisms.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 10, 2023

iPODs: Making portable droplet microfluidic testing possible

The iPODs system enables rapid-results testing with reduced error, cross-contamination, and sample loss by automating droplet transfer. The device shows strong linearity in bacterial detection, with an R-squared value of 0.999, making it accurate for point-of-care testing.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateMay 5, 2023
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.

Study finds stool transplants more effective than antibiotics for treating recurring, life-threatening gut infections

A new Cochrane Review found that stool transplantation can increase the number of people recovering from Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) infection by 77%, compared to 40% with standard antibiotic treatment. The study also showed a decrease in side effects with stool transplantation.

SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateApr 24, 2023

Diatoms provide an attractive habitat for bacteria

A new study reveals that different species of bacteria colonize specific areas on diatoms, reflecting their metabolic properties. The findings provide insight into the complex interactions between algae and bacteria in marine environments.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalJournal of Phycology·TypeObservational study·DateApr 20, 2023

Scientists identify compounds that reduce the harmful side effects of antibiotics on gut bacteria

Researchers identified protective drugs that shield two abundant gut bacterial species without compromising antibiotic effectiveness against disease-causing bacteria. The study found a novel combination of antibiotics with antidote drugs, such as dicumarol and tolfenamic acid, which protected the gut microbiome and maintained antibioti...

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateApr 15, 2023

Dancing in the mud: Cut cable puts an end to bacterial party

Researchers at Aarhus University discovered that cable bacteria form a dance-like connection with diverse aerobic bacteria in the anoxic seabed. The small bacteria benefit by transferring electrons to the cable bacteria, forming an electrical lifeline to oxygen.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 2023
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.

Study identifies how microbiome may affect pancreatic cancer outcomes

A study published in the journal Cancer found that long-term pancreatic cancer survivors have a robust immune response and enriched gut microbiome species, including Faecalibacterium prausnitzii. The research suggests that these bacterial species may promote immune response to pancreas cancer.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalCancer·TypeObservational study·DateApr 3, 2023

Boosting survival of a beneficial bacterium in the human gut

A Yale study found that beneficial gut bacterium Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron responds to starvation for carbon by sequestering essential transcription factor in membrane-less compartment, increasing its activity and modifying gene expression. This mechanism enables colonization of mammalian gut and reveals a vital strategy for

SourceYale University·JournalScience·DateMar 17, 2023

A better way to produce fertilizers

Researchers engineer crops and symbiotic bacteria to produce nitrogen fertilizer, reducing reliance on industrially produced fertilizers. The approach aims to create a symbiotic relationship between the bacteria and crop plants, promoting efficient nutrient exchange.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalBioDesign Research·DateMar 8, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Gut bacteria are crucial for liver repair

A study by researchers at TUM found that gut bacteria play a crucial role in liver regeneration. The microbiome produces short-chain fatty acids, which are essential for liver cell growth and division. In mice treated with antibiotics, liver regeneration was delayed or not possible, but a

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalJournal of Hepatology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2023

Making engineered cells dance to ultrasound

Scientists at Caltech have developed a method to move and arrange cells using ultrasound waves, which could enable tissue engineering and cell-based therapy. By harnessing the properties of gas vesicles derived from bacteria, researchers can apply force to cells in a selective manner.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 23, 2023

Newly discovered virus can kill resistant bacteria

Scientists have discovered a new virus that can kill antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The virus, named Fyn8, was found in local creeks near the University of Southern Denmark campus and has been fully sequenced.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalMicrobiology Resource Announcements·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 16, 2023

Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis studies explore key traditional and modern therapeutics

Studies elucidate key aspects of traditional Chinese compounds and modern cancer therapeutics, highlighting the efficacy of R. serra in treating colitis and identifying active components of Gan Cao in treating pneumonia. A new radiolabeled antibody-based probe for detecting PD-L1 expression in cancers also provides a novel approach to ...

SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2023
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Microbes that co-operate contribute more carbon emissions

Research from Imperial College London and University of Exeter reveals that cooperative microbial communities release more carbon dioxide than competitive ones, contributing significantly to climate change. This finding has far-reaching implications for understanding the impact of temperature changes on global carbon cycles.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Microbiology·DateFeb 13, 2023

Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome is associated with distinct changes in the microbiome and gut metabolites

Two studies reveal that ME/CFS is associated with reduced levels of butyrate-producing microbes and differences in gut metabolites. Researchers found distinct changes in the microbiome of patients with short-term and long-term ME/CFS, suggesting a potential link between gut dysbiosis and the disease's severity.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2023

Studies find that microbiome changes may be a signature for ME/CFS

Researchers found differences in gut microbiomes of people with ME/CFS compared to healthy controls, indicating a potential role for the microbiome in the disease. Abnormal levels of specific bacteria and metabolites were associated with reduced butyrate production, which is essential for gut health.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·DateFeb 8, 2023

Fungi and bacteria are binging on burned soil

Researchers discovered that certain microorganisms dominate burned soil after a wildfire, with some species increasing in abundance and others consuming charcoal. This finding could help revive megafire dead zones and provide insights into the human microbiome's response to stress.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateFeb 7, 2023
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.

Harmful bacteria can elude predators when in mixed colonies

A study by Dartmouth College researchers found that bacteria can form protective clusters with rival species, making it harder to kill harmful bacteria. This discovery highlights the importance of studying multispecies biofilm structures and may impact the development of bacteriophages and predatory bacteria as antimicrobial alternatives.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2023

Genomic methods aid study of Seattle 2017-2022 Shigella outbreak

A genomic study of the Seattle 2017-2022 Shigella outbreak revealed its origin as international travelers from areas where Shigella was common. The study also found that multi-drug resistant Shigella has become a growing global health concern, primarily affecting men who have sex with men and those experiencing homelessness.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateJan 31, 2023

Targeted test for antibiotic resistance in clinical Enterobacter species

Researchers have clarified relationships between numerous Enterobacter species and optimised resistance testing. Using genome-based taxonomic studies, they found that Enterobacter xiangfangensis accounted for 68.7% of all detected isolates worldwide.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 23, 2023

Microbes could be used by farmers as natural fertilizer for poor soil

Researchers identified hundreds of microorganisms associated with plant roots and soil, showing potential for developing biological substitutes for phosphorus-based fertilizers. The discovery highlights the importance of microbial communities in supplying essential nutrients like nitrogen.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateJan 23, 2023
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.

Portland State study discovers immense diversity and interdependence in high temperature deep-sea microorganism communities

A new study by Portland State University researchers found that deep-sea microorganisms thrive in high-temperature environments and exhibit a staggering level of diversity, with over 500 new genera discovered. The microbes also rely on each other for survival through metabolic handoffs, revealing a complex interdependence.

SourcePortland State University·JournalMicrobiome·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 23, 2023

Legionella bononiensis: a new Legionella species has been identified

A new Legionella species, Legionella bononiensis, has been identified in a hotel facility in northern Italy. The discovery was made by researchers from the University of Bologna using genetic sequencing and mass spectroscopy techniques.

SourceUniversità di Bologna·JournalINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SYSTEMATIC AND EVOLUTIONARY MICROBIOLOGY·DateJan 10, 2023

Study examines bacteria living in and on mosquitoes

A North Carolina State University study found that mosquitoes harbor diverse bacterial communities, including those associated with human diseases. The research revealed greater bacterial diversity internally than externally, suggesting that mosquitoes may transfer pathogenic bacteria through physical contact or defecation.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 16, 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.

Newly identified protease inhibitors may aid uninhibited potato cultivation

Wild potato varieties have evolved multiple resistance factors to combat pathogens like Pectobacterium species. Researchers have identified protease inhibitors that prevent bacterial malignance by interrupting their communication system and degrading plant cell walls.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·DateDec 15, 2022

Study finds microbiota transfer therapy provides long term improvement in gut health in children with autism

A new study by Arizona State University researchers found that microbiota transfer therapy significantly improved the abundance of beneficial bacteria and normalized altered bacterial gene expression in children with autism. The treatment showed substantial increases in populations of beneficial bacterial species and improvements in ge...

SourceArizona State University·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2022

New and more detailed world map of antimicrobial resistance

A new study maps the global landscape of antimicrobial resistance, revealing surprising transmissions in Sub-Saharan Africa and highlighting the need for tailored strategies to combat resistance. The research, which analyzed sewage samples from 243 cities in 101 countries, found that resistance genes are more frequently transmitted acr...

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 1, 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.

Microfibers in the Mediterranean Sea are floating homes for bacteria

A new study reveals that microfibers in the Mediterranean Sea are home to over 2,600 bacterial species, including Vibrio parahaemolyticus, a potentially deadly bacterium. The presence of these bacteria poses a significant threat to human health and aquatic ecosystems.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateNov 30, 2022

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
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.

COVID-19 virus increases risk for other infections by disrupting normal mix of gut bacteria

A new study found that COVID-19 infection directly interferes with the healthy balance of microbes in the gut, further endangering patients. The research revealed that antibiotic-resistant species can escape into the bloodstream, putting patients at greater risk for life-threatening secondary infections.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2022

Better understanding of the development of intestinal diseases

The study reveals that the small intestinal microbiome is unstable and changes in response to diet, but certain species persist and adapt through subspecies changes. The findings have important implications for understanding intestinal diseases such as celiac disease and Crohn's disease.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateNov 1, 2022

Can gut bacteria cause rheumatoid arthritis?

A unique bacterium found in the gut microbiome may trigger an autoimmune response that leads to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in individuals already at risk. The discovery opens up possibilities for targeted therapies and prevention strategies.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 26, 2022

A small peptide peps up almond defense against devastating bacteria

Researchers developed a small peptide that can directly kill bacteria and trigger plant defense tactics to prevent diseases like almond leaf scorch. The treatment significantly reduces pathogen population and disease symptoms, making it a promising approach for sustainable crop protection.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytopathology·DateOct 24, 2022
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.