A new study by MIT scientists uses a novel gene-analyzing technique to estimate that oxygenic photosynthesis first originated around 2.9 billion years ago. This evolutionary innovation allowed for the accumulation of oxygen in the atmosphere and oceans, paving the way for life on Earth.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateSep 28, 2021
A new study suggests that prebiotics can help realign sleep-wake cycles and core body temperature after chronic disruption of rhythms, hosting health-promoting microbes and a different metabolome. Researchers hope to develop customized prebiotic mixtures for individuals with frequent circadian disruptions.
SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalBrain Behavior and Immunity·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2021
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 compared four common DNA extraction methods and found that each method produced slightly different results due to varying 'how' factors. Researchers can now make informed decisions about their methods to optimize results.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytobiomes Journal·DateSep 9, 2021
A study published in International Journal of Environment and Public Health Research reveals that oral bacteria, specifically P. gingivalis and Lactobacillaceae families, are associated with periodontitis. Genetic differences among hosts contribute to susceptibility to pathogens, but the oral microbiome plays a more significant role in...
SourceOkayama University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 2, 2021
Researchers have identified a unique sequence essential for efficient multidrug efflux function of the MtrD protein in Neisseria gonorrhoeae, a key mechanism for antimicrobial resistance. This discovery could lead to the development of new antibiotic treatments.
SourceFlinders University·JournalmBio·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 31, 2021
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.
Research reveals significant differences in gut microbiomes worldwide, impacting immune responses and susceptibility to infections. The study found that microbial composition alone can impact immune resilience, with Guatemala's microbiome proving most resistant.
SourceCornell University·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 28, 2021
A study published in Gut journal found that children with autism have a distinctive and underdeveloped range of gut bacteria, significantly fewer linked to neurotransmitter activity. This characteristic microbial profile may play a role in social behaviors and warrants further investigation.
Researchers found that Veillonellaceae family members contribute to disease by altering inflammation and metabolism in the cervicovaginal region. The study also identified three specific bacteria species - V. atypica, V. montpellierensis, and M. micronuciformis - that increase inflammation and promote cell death.
SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·Journalnpj Biofilms and Microbiomes·DateJul 13, 2021
A new study reveals that some bacterial symbionts of bivalves have traveled the globe and established partnerships with host species across diverse habitats. This finding challenges previous concepts of symbiont acquisition and highlights the remarkable flexibility in this partnership, which benefits both hosts and symbionts.
SourceMax Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 2021
Scientists successfully engineered a 'vaccine' using harmless commensal bacteria to prepare immune cells for a life-threatening disease. The approach showed promise in inducing immunity without adverse effects, paving the way for novel treatments and applications.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 7, 2021
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.
Researchers at the University of Cologne discovered a rare tripartite symbiosis between a ciliate, a green alga and a previously unknown purple bacterium. The genome of the purple bacterium is greatly reduced, suggesting it relies on photosynthesis for survival.
SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 14, 2021
Research reveals minor microbes, like fungi and environmental bacteria, play crucial roles in maintaining bee gut health. These forgotten microbes produce antibiotics, break down toxins, and metabolize nutrients, helping bees resist pathogens and climate change.
SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·Journalnpj Biofilms and Microbiomes·DateJun 13, 2021
Researchers discovered that blocking bacterial H2S biogenesis strengthens antibiotics by inhibiting persister formation and biofilm growth, offering a novel alternative to traditional antibiotic discovery. The study suggests using small molecule potentiators to enhance the effect of major classes of clinically important antibiotics.
SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalScience·DateJun 10, 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.
Researchers at Kumamoto University developed a new analytical method to detect degraded beta-lactam antibiotics. Cysteine persulfide, a reactive sulfur species produced by bacteria, degrades and inactivates these antibiotics.
SourceKumamoto University·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateJun 9, 2021
A new species of bacteria, Candidatus Phytoplasma dypsidis, has been found to cause a fatal disease in palms in Queensland, Australia. The bacterium is thought to be spread by insects and poses a significant threat to Australia's ornamental palm industry.
SourceMicrobiology Society·JournalINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SYSTEMATIC AND EVOLUTIONARY MICROBIOLOGY·DateMay 27, 2021
A global metagenomic study of urban microbiomes found distinct microbial signatures in cities across six continents, with over 4,200 known species identified. The research also discovered a core set of 31 species present in 97% of samples and highlights the potential for new discoveries related to microbial diversity.
Researchers at Newcastle University have discovered new nutrient exchanges between algae and bacteria using advanced SIMS technique. The study shows that long-term carbon transfers occur between microalgae and bacteria, impacting microbial community functioning.
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.
The discovery of five novel listeria species will help identify potential growth niches in agricultural soil and improve food safety by expanding the knowledge base on listeria diversity. This increased understanding will prevent contamination, false positives, and foodborne outbreaks.
SourceCornell University·JournalINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SYSTEMATIC AND EVOLUTIONARY MICROBIOLOGY·DateMay 18, 2021
A study suggests that glyphosate, the world's most widely used herbicide, weakens the immune systems of insects by inhibiting melanin production. This reduction in resistance to infection may have significant impacts on ecosystems and human health.
SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 13, 2021
A recent study found that 66% of commercial kefir products overstated microorganism density and 80% contained unlabeled bacterial species. The researchers highlight the need for better quality control to understand kefir's potential health benefits.
Research reveals that just three amino acid changes can dramatically alter an enzyme's function, allowing microbes to thrive in diverse ecosystems. This discovery has significant implications for understanding disease-causing bacteria and developing remedies.
SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMay 11, 2021
Researchers at McGill University studied bacterial movement through microfluidic environments to understand their navigational 'strategies'. The findings have implications for diagnosing infectious diseases, developing devices for genomics and bio computation, and maintaining human health.
SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 11, 2021
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.
Researchers at the University of Cologne discovered two previously undescribed genera and one new species of bacteria related to Legionella, which live in amoebae. The findings suggest a wider range of host organisms than previously thought, potentially leading to more cases of disease.
SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·DateApr 30, 2021
Researchers at UCI found that soil microbes can evolve in response to climate change, changing genetic diversity in 18 months. This rapid evolution has implications for how soil ecosystems respond to future climate conditions.
SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 28, 2021
Research found high dietary intake of animal products, processed foods, and sugary drinks is linked to an 'inflammatory' gut microbiome. Conversely, a diet rich in plant-based foods may promote 'friendly', anti-inflammatory microbes that help control inflammation.
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have deciphered the composition and function of sea urchin microbiomes, revealing significant differences between red and purple species and habitats. The study suggests that sea urchins may be able to produce their own food using microbes in their guts.
SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalLimnology and Oceanography Letters·DateApr 6, 2021
A team of researchers has discovered a group of bacteria that may help fungi and plants acquire soil nutrients. The bacteria form unique communities on the hyphae surfaces of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, which could enhance phosphate acquisition and improve crop yields.
SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateApr 2, 2021
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.
A study found that cesarean-born infants have less diverse gut microbiota at birth but catch up with their peers by age 3-5. The intestinal microbiota forms an ecosystem that takes years to mature, and its development can vary significantly among children.
SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateApr 1, 2021
A new German research project aims to challenge the perception of bacteria as simple organisms by studying their complex behavior and multicellularity. The study seeks to gain a deeper understanding of bacterial life forms, with potential applications in combating antibiotic resistance and developing innovative biocatalysis.
A new study published in Science has mapped the gut microbiota of over 200 species of animals in the wild, discovering millions of previously unknown potential human therapeutics. The study's findings add 30 million genes to Wild Biotech's database, which now comprises hundreds of animal species and 100 million genes.
Research reveals that root-dwelling bacteria can enhance plant heat tolerance, with SA187 showing promising results in lab and field tests. The bacteria trigger the plant's defense system by producing metabolites that prime its heat-resistance genes for action.
SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalEMBO Reports·DateMar 24, 2021
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 silent killer, Enterococcus lacertideformus, has been discovered as the cause of mysterious deaths in native reptile populations on Christmas Island. The bacterium grows in the animal's head and internal organs, causing death through direct contact or biting, highlighting the need for targeted antibiotic trials.
SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateMar 17, 2021
Researchers at the University of Science and Technology of China have developed nanozymes that produce surface-bound ROS to selectively kill bacteria. The selectivity is attributed to the surface-bound nature of ROS and an unexpected antidote role of endocytosis, a common process in mammalian cells but absent in bacteria.
SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 16, 2021
Bacterial mutants struggling to survive due to nutrient scarcity often form clusters to cooperate and share nutrients, rather than competing with wild-type bacteria. This cooperative behavior masks the true frequency of mutations, making it seem like a lower rate of mutant emergence is occurring.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBMC Biology·DateMar 10, 2021
A new study found that poor oral hygiene within 24-72 hours can lead to a steep decrease in good oral bacteria and an increase in bad bacteria associated with periodontitis. The researchers also discovered a sudden aging of the bacteria's microbiome, equivalent to about a year in less than a month.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalmBio·DateMar 9, 2021
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.
A study found that toxins produced by bacteria can cause mutations in target cells, providing a competitive advantage and contributing to the evolution of bacterial populations. The toxins, which remove chemical groups from DNA, were found to be effective in causing mutations in certain bacterial species.
Researchers have discovered a dual symbiosis system in deep-sea vent-endemic snails, where they host both sulfur-oxidizing and methane-oxidizing bacteria for nutrient synthesis. This finding provides new insights into how animals thrive in extreme environments and sheds light on the adaptation to microbes.
SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 19, 2021
Researchers aim to combat antibiotic-resistant infections by developing new therapeutics, utilizing antibodies and artificial intelligence. The team targets bacteria such as Burkholderia and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, causing severe respiratory and other infections.
A new study by UC Riverside researchers found that a high-fat and sugar diet in childhood can alter the gut microbiome of mice for life. The study suggests that early-life diet has more long-lasting effects on the microbiome than exercise, highlighting the importance of nutrition during critical developmental periods.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateFeb 3, 2021
Researchers found that gut bacteria use enzymes to modify and detoxify bile salts, which can be toxic to bacteria. This interaction affects bacterial fitness and competition in the gut ecosystem.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2021
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.
Researchers from GEOMAR and Kiel University discovered a deep-sea red yeast with anticancer and antibacterial effects, producing glycolipids with potential applications in medicine and biotechnology. The study found synergistic effects of certain compounds, opening doors to new pharmaceutical development and biotechnological applications.
SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalMarine Drugs·DateJan 20, 2021
A new study identified novel metabolites and specific gut bacteria distinguishing healthy from food-allergic twin pairs. The research found that certain bacteria, such as Phascolarctobacterium faecium and Ruminococccus bromii, played a protective role against food allergies.
SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 19, 2021
The study uses a decontamination algorithm to identify the bacteria living in tumors, finding that normal and cancerous organ tissues have distinct microbiota compositions. The researchers also discovered that bacterial information could help diagnose cancer and predict patient outcomes.
SourceDuke University·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateJan 13, 2021
A growing body of evidence links poor gut health to severe COVID-19 prognosis. Studies show that altered gut microbiota can exacerbate the severity of infection by enabling the virus to access internal organs. Interventions like probiotics or fecal transplants may help patients, according to expert Heenam Stanley Kim.
SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateJan 12, 2021
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.
Researchers found virus-like particles resembling red blood cells and sea-urchin-like structures within bacterial symbionts of Bryozoa. The discovery suggests that these particles may regulate the number of symbiotic bacteria in host organisms.
SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 8, 2021
Scientists have found that nearly all antibiotic resistance genes came from bacteria that cause disease, not antibiotic-producing bacteria. The rapid evolution of resistance is fueled by the use and overuse of antibiotics, threatening modern healthcare.
SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalCommunications Biology·DateJan 7, 2021
A new species of endemic centipede, Cryptops speleorex, has been discovered in Movile Cave, Romania, with a length of 46-52 mm. The creature is the largest known inhabitant of the cave and boasts venomous predation skills.
Researchers discovered a unique evolutionary event in which an antibacterial enzyme in ticks protects them from bacteria on human skin while allowing the Borrelia burgdorferi bacterium to thrive. The ticks acquired this gene 40 million years ago through horizontal gene transfer.
A recent study by UC San Francisco researchers reveals that ticks possess an antibiotic gene called dae2, which protects them from contracting pathogens, including Staphylococcus bacteria. This discovery provides new insights into the complex interactions between ticks and human skin microbiota.
SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell·DateDec 10, 2020
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.
Scientists have discovered a way to control the flow of liquids using magnetotactic bacteria, which can be used to transport cancer drugs directly to tumors. The bacteria produce an effect similar to that of a micropump, allowing for precise control over the movement of active substances.
SourceETH Zurich·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateDec 8, 2020
A recent study found a large number of potentially pathogenic bacteria on ticks infecting Bolson tortoises, highlighting the need for conservation strategies to protect these endangered species. Further research is needed to understand the tortoises' defense mechanisms against diseases transmitted by ticks.
SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalBiology·DateDec 3, 2020
A study published in Ecological Monographs reveals that sugar maple leaf microbiomes change along the transition from coniferous to deciduous forests. The findings show that southern sugar maples have similar microbiomes, while northern trees host bacterial communities resembling those of other dominant species.
SourceEcological Society of America·JournalEcological Monographs·DateDec 3, 2020
Researchers found bacteria that feed on toxic halogenated compounds, providing a potential mechanism for measuring exposure to semi-volatile organic compounds. The study suggests that certain SVOCs are correlated with the abundance of bacterial and fungal species in children's guts.
SourceDuke University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateDec 3, 2020
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 identified distinct gut microbiome signatures in individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD), including higher levels of Bacteroides and lower levels of Blautia. A biomarker-based diagnostic tool may help physicians diagnose MDD, providing a companion to clinical interviews.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 2, 2020
Researchers at Princeton University discovered how forest-dwelling bacteria cooperate to build fruiting bodies when food is scarce, using the physics behind fingerprint patterns and topological defects. The study reveals new insights into the physics-biology intersection and highlights the value of interdisciplinary collaboration.
SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature Physics·DateNov 23, 2020
Researchers from University of Turku developed a new bioinformatics tool to predict microbial sensitivity to glyphosate. The tool classifies 80-90% of microbial species as sensitive or resistant, with 54% of human core gut bacterial species potentially affected.
SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·DateNov 20, 2020
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.
Researchers have found that gut immune cells express an antibody called IgA, which helps protect against harmful bacteria and may help bring flare-ups under control. This discovery opens up new lines of research for therapeutics and suggests a potential new player in managing MS symptoms.
SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalScience Immunology·DateNov 20, 2020
Researchers at North Carolina State University have discovered a new Rickettsia species in dogs that is part of the spotted-fever group. This new species has been found in multiple dogs across the US and shares genetic similarities with human Rickettsia pathogens.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateNov 9, 2020
A new study found that plastic bottles colonize with diverse bacterial communities, while elevated CO2 levels negatively impact certain species. Researchers warn of the increasing threat posed by plastics and ocean acidification to marine biodiversity.
SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateNov 6, 2020
Researchers found that corals with high levels of parasitic bacteria are more susceptible to disease, even when appearing healthy. This discovery provides crucial insights into coral restoration efforts in the Caribbean.
SourceOregon State University·JournalEnvironmental Microbiology·DateOct 28, 2020
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.