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Engineering the microbiome to potentially cure disease

Researchers have developed a novel approach to engineering live bacterial therapeutics by using native microbes that can survive in the gut. This method overcomes previous limitations of introducing engineered bacteria into the gut, demonstrating potential for long-term therapy and reversal of disease pathologies in mouse models.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateAug 4, 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.

Histamine-producing gut bacteria can trigger chronic abdominal pain

Researchers discovered a specific gut bacterial strain, Klebsiella aerogenes, that produces histamine and triggers abdominal pain in IBS patients. The study found that reducing histamine production by colonizing mice with low fermentable carbohydrates led to decreased pain.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2022

Researchers lift the veil on stubborn probiotic

NC State researchers discovered a new way to make the difficult-to-characterize gut bacterium Bifidobacterium more responsive to antibiotics. They also found tiny changes in different strains that reflect large differences in their characteristics, highlighting the need for individualized CRISPR-based genome engineering approaches.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 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
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.

Bacteria for blastoff: Using microbes to make supercharged new rocket fuel

Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have created a new type of fuel that has higher energy density than traditional heavy-duty fuels. The biofuel, called POP-FAMEs, is produced by bacteria fed with plant matter and can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions when burned.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalJoule·DateJun 30, 2022

Plastic pollution in ocean may harbor novel antibiotics, study shows

A recent study has found that ocean plastic may be a source of novel antibiotics, with researchers isolating five antibiotic-producing bacteria from plastic debris. The isolated bacteria showed promise against commonly used and resistant bacterial strains, providing hope for an alternative solution to the growing antibiotic crisis.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 12, 2022

Unprecedented case series advances promise of phage therapy

Researchers used bacteriophage therapy to treat 20 complex, antibiotic-resistant lung infections in a clinical trial, resulting in no adverse reactions. More than half of treated patients experienced symptom improvement or reduced bacterial presence. The study's findings advance the promise of phage therapy as an alternative to traditi...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateJun 9, 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.

New type of pneumococcal vaccine developed by KI scientists

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have identified a new vaccine candidate based on nano-sized membrane vesicles that provide protection against multiple pneumococcal strains. The vaccine target two conserved lipoproteins MalX and PrsA, showing serotype-independent cross-protection.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 2, 2022

Finding new weapons in nature's battlesites

A research team from the Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology has identified 1,000 biosynthetic gene clusters, over half of which are previously unknown. These natural products have been found to be eukaryotic proteasome inhibitors that suppress the immune system of insects, as well as other virulence factors.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Chemistry·DateApr 28, 2022

Body’s response to different strains of tuberculosis could affect transmission

Researchers studied two strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis with different lung attack mechanisms, finding that high-transmission strains trigger granulomas that may aid bacterial escape into the airways. In contrast, low-transmission strains cause inflammation that traps bacteria, reducing transmissibility.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 16, 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.

Engineered bacteria could help protect “good” gut microbes from antibiotics

Researchers developed a new way to help protect the natural flora of the human digestive tract by engineering bacteria to break down beta-lactam antibiotics. This approach protects the microbiota in the gut while allowing antibiotics to remain effective, reducing the risk of infection and antibiotic resistance.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateApr 11, 2022

Two DNA defense systems behind resilience of 7th cholera pandemic

The study found two DNA defense systems in Vibrio cholerae bacteria that work together to eliminate plasmids and prevent the spread of antibiotic resistance. These defense systems, called DdmDE and DdmABC, are encoded within distinct pathogenicity islands and help the bacteria survive pandemics.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature·DateApr 7, 2022

Striking lane-like patterns found in bacteria populations

Researchers from OIST found that Escherichia coli bacteria form lanes of genetically similar individuals when constrained to a channel, aligning parallel to the barriers. The study, published in PNAS, used microfluidic platforms and simulations to observe population dynamics over several generations.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2022

Harmless or deadly? New study examines evolution of E. coli bacteria

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 iPhone 17 Pro

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

Patient safety program reduces unnecessary antibiotic use in long-term care facilities

A study published in JAMA Network Open shows that a comprehensive system to improve antibiotic stewardship in long-term care facilities significantly reduces the use of antibiotics, leading to better patient outcomes and reduced drug-resistant bacterial strains. The program empowered clinicians to make informed decisions about prescrib...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 28, 2022

Understanding bacterial biofilms

Researchers are exploring how bacteria form biofilms, which can be detrimental to health but also have potential uses in medicine and environmental cleanup. The study aims to understand the mechanisms behind microbial growth in biofilms and develop new materials and treatments.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateFeb 22, 2022

Trust your gut: how your gut microbiota can save you from cancer

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

SMART researchers discover unique lysin capable of killing deadly multidrug-resistant bacteria

SMART researchers identified a novel phage lysin, Abp013, with promising antimicrobial ability against Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The study demonstrated Abp013's ability to effectively target complex bacterial environments and could advance treatment methods for multidrug-resistant Gram-negative pathogens.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalAntibiotics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2022

Rare bacterial strain isolated and sequenced at Tokyo University of Science

A new bacterial strain, Noda2021, belonging to Candidatus phylum Dependentiae has been isolated and sequenced, revealing its genetic material and potential ecological significance. This discovery sheds light on the diversity of microorganisms in Japan's microbiological hotspots.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalMicrobiology Resource Announcements·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 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.

Researchers find hybrid metabolism in fermented food microbe

Scientists have found a new energy metabolism in lactic acid bacteria that combines features of respiration with fermentation. This hybrid metabolism enables the bacteria to thrive better and faster, potentially improving gut health by manipulating its growth.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 11, 2022

Smart windows can significantly reduce indoor pathogens

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

Aphid ‘honeydew’ may promote bacteria that kill them

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
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Tracking down the origin of cholera pandemics

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

Strains -- not species -- of gut microbes hold key to health and disease

Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in understanding the human gut microbiome by focusing on bacterial strains rather than species. By using a new computational method, scientists can analyze the strains of bacteria present in a microbiome sample more quickly and affordably.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateDec 23, 2021

New species of bacteria named after the John Innes Centre

A new species of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, Enterococcus innesii, has been discovered by researchers at the John Innes Centre. The strain is resistant to vancomycin and may cause hospital-acquired infections.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SYSTEMATIC AND EVOLUTIONARY MICROBIOLOGY·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 22, 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 step toward “living biotherapeutics”

The coating protects bacteria during the freeze-drying and manufacturing process, allowing them to be used therapeutically. The researchers tested the coating on a strain of E. coli and another species that aids in digestion of plant starches.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateDec 10, 2021

Experimental treatment with enzyme protects mice from lethal anthrax infection

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

Boosting the body’s response to infections with a bio-inspired peptide

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
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Scientists develop promising vaccine method against recurrent UTI

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

A way in: Newly-identified state in bacteria has major implications for antibiotic treatment and resistant strains

Researchers at Hebrew University of Jerusalem discover a 'disrupted' state in bacteria that resists current antibiotics, requiring new pharmacological agents to combat. The breakthrough model predicts bacterial population responses to treatments, offering avenues for better treatments against cancer cells.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

Warning over antibiotic-resistant bacteria

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

Large-scale study of bacterial spot of tomato illuminates the pathogen’s diversity throughout Florida during a production season

A large-scale study characterized 585 strains of the Xanthomonas perforans bacterium in Florida commercial tomato fields, finding associations between farms and transplant facilities as key points of pathogen spread. This research provides insights into the diversity of the pathogen population and potential control strategies for farmers.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 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.

New nanomaterial for treatment of skin infections

Researchers at IOCB Prague have developed a novel antibacterial material called NANO-LPPO that can prevent infection and facilitate treatment of skin wounds. The material combines lipophosphonoxins with a nonwoven nanotextile, which releases active substances in response to bacterial presence.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 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.

Hidden in the seeds: Bacteria found to survive the harsh interior of passion fruit seeds

Scientists at Tokyo University of Science discovered endophytic bacteria that can survive extreme conditions within passion fruit seeds. The bacteria were isolated from seedlings grown from cut seeds and found to possess biocatalytic activities related to the metabolism of secondary metabolites, such as resveratrol and piceatannol.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalMicrobiologyOpen·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 30, 2021

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia researchers identify approach for potential nontypeable haemophilus influenzae vaccine

Researchers identified two proteins, HMW1 and HMW2, that stimulate protective immunity against diverse NTHi strains. Immunization with these proteins provides protection against bacterial colonization by other strains, highlighting the vaccine potential for a nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae vaccine.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2021

When stubborn bugs refuse to make drugs

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis used comparative metabologenomics to study the genomes of Streptomyces bacteria and identify key factors that influence drug production. The study found that fine-tuning of specific nucleotides can control antibiotic production, offering new insights for next-generation drug discovery.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 29, 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.

Researchers surprised to find bacterial parasites behind rise of 'super bugs'

Phages play a key role in initiating rapid bacterial evolution and the emergence of treatment-resistant superbugs, according to new research from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. The study reveals that phages interact with bacteria and facilitate adaptation, allowing resistant strains to gain an evolutionary advantage.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 16, 2021

Keeping bacteria under lock and key

Scientists at the University of Delaware have made progress on a biological containment strategy using synthetic auxotrophy, keeping a strain of E. coli stable for 100 days. The research also shows promise for treating diseases and cleaning up the environment safely.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 6, 2021

Kiwi disease study finds closely related bacterial strains display different behaviors

A recent study found that genes involved in bacterial signaling play a crucial role in the virulence of Psa3, a highly aggressive biovar of the pathogen Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae. This discovery highlights the importance of understanding the diversity of virulence strategies among closely related bacterial strains.

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

Dutch study finds antibiotic-resistant bacteria common in veterinary staff

A new study found that one in ten veterinary workers in the Netherlands carries strains of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including ESBL-producing bacteria. The study suggests that occupational contact with animals may be a key factor in transmitting these resistant bacteria to humans.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateJun 23, 2021

Persistence pays off in the human gut microbiome

Researchers investigated bacterial persistence in the human gut microbiome, identifying three dispersal strategies and finding that most strains are highly persistent. The study's results will inform targeted probiotic and treatment approaches to maintain a healthy gut microbiome.

SourceEarlham Institute·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateJun 14, 2021

A new bacteria, made in Belgium (and UCLouvain)

Researchers discovered a new bacterium, Dysosmobacter welbionis, present in 70% of the population, which produces butyrate and has anti-inflammatory effects. The bacteria was found to increase mitochondrial activity, lowering sugar levels and weight in mice, suggesting potential for treating type 2 diabetes and obesity.

SourceUniversité catholique de Louvain·JournalGut·DateJun 9, 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.

How a Vietnamese raw pork snack could help us keep food fresh, naturally

Researchers at RMIT University have discovered a bacteria-killing compound in Nem Chua that can destroy more dangerous bacteria, potentially leading to a safe and all-natural food preservative. The compound is effective against a wide range of bacteria, including those that cause life-threatening diseases like Listeria.

SourceRMIT University·JournalProcess Biochemistry·DateJun 7, 2021

A 'jolt' for ocean carbon sequestration

Scientists have discovered that bacteria found in brackish sediments can 'eat' electricity and absorb climate-warming carbon dioxide. This unusual skill was previously thought to be exclusive to freshwater bacteria, but may be common in marine bacteria.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateJun 1, 2021

Plant-microbe homeostasis: A delicate balancing act

Research finds that a balance between immune-suppressive and non-suppressive bacterial strains in the plant microbiota is crucial for maintaining microbe-plant homeostasis. This balance allows plants to promote growth while preventing excessive defense, reducing disease susceptibility.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research·JournalNature Plants·DateMay 24, 2021
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.

Microneedle patch delivers antibiotics locally in the skin

Researchers developed a microneedle patch that delivers vancomycin directly into the affected skin area, significantly reducing MRSA bacterial population. This innovative approach aims to transform the treatment of skin infections by improving quality of life for patients.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateMay 10, 2021

Bioactive implant coatings resistant to most bacterial strains are obtained in Russia

Researchers from NUST MISIS have created innovative multilayer coatings that synthesizes protective properties of nanoparticles, biopolymers, anticoagulants, and antibiotics. The coatings demonstrated excellent bactericidal efficacy against antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains with a prolonged antibacterial effect up to 7 days.

SourceNational University of Science and Technology MISIS·JournalApplied Surface Science·DateApr 12, 2021
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.

Fasting acts as diet catalyst

A five-day fast followed by a healthy diet reduces inflammation and promotes beneficial gut bacteria, improving cardiovascular health. Long-term effects include lower body mass index, reduced blood pressure, and decreased antihypertensive medication use.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 30, 2021

Full evolutionary journey of hospital superbug mapped for the first time

A new study has mapped the full evolutionary journey of the bacterium Enterococcus faecalis, a common cause of antibiotic-resistant infections in hospitals. The research shows that antibiotic resistant strains developed earlier than previously thought, influenced by agricultural and early medical practices.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 9, 2021

A little squid and its glowing bacteria yield new clues to symbiotic relationships

Researchers have identified a small molecule produced by bioluminescent bacteria that plays a key role in establishing the symbiosis between the squid and its light organ. The molecule, cHP-3, is produced during colonization and influences bacterial luminescence, suggesting an important chemical signal specific to this symbiosis.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalmBio·DateMar 9, 2021
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.