Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Bacteria engineered as Trojan horse for cancer immunotherapy

Researchers engineer bacteria to target CD47 on cancer cells, inducing local inflammation and boosting T cell activation. The therapy leads to complete tumor regression and reduced metastasis in mouse models.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Medicine·DateJul 3, 2019

Controlling deadly malaria without chemicals

Researchers at UC Riverside have identified a neurotoxin produced by bacteria that kills Anopheles mosquitoes, which spread malaria. The discovery could lead to the development of a chemical-free insecticide and reduce the risk of resistance.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 28, 2019

'Good' bacteria may prevent -- and reverse -- food allergy

A study by Boston Children's Hospital scientists reveals that the absence of certain beneficial bacteria in the human gut makes children susceptible to food allergies. Transplanting these bacteria into mice with food allergies prevents the disease and even reverses it, suggesting a new approach to treatments.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNature Medicine·DateJun 24, 2019
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.

Stanford researchers synthesize healing compounds in scorpion venom

Researchers at Stanford University and Mexico isolated two color-changing compounds from scorpion venom that can kill staphylococcus bacteria and drug-resistant tuberculosis. The compounds were synthesized in the lab and verified to be effective against these pathogens.

SourceStanford University - School of Humanities and Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 10, 2019

Phage therapy treats patient with drug-resistant bacterial infection

A 15-year-old girl with cystic fibrosis was treated with genetically engineered bacteriophages to combat a life-threatening, drug-resistant infection. The treatment led to the clearance of skin nodules and improvement in liver function, demonstrating the safety and effectiveness of phage therapy.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature Medicine·DateMay 8, 2019
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.

Bacterial mix helps predict future change

Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology found that bacterial communities can homogenize even with slow flowing water and persistent conditions. They identified a precise flow rate of 3.85 microlitres per second for homogenization to occur.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 16, 2019

Genetic code of WWI soldier's cholera mapped

Researchers at the Wellcome Sanger Institute have sequenced the genome of a non-toxigenic strain of Vibrio cholerae from WWI, showing it is distantly related to strains causing modern pandemics. The strain lacked a flagellum and possessed genes for ampicillin resistance.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·DateApr 9, 2019

Gut microbiome directs the immune system to fight cancer

Researchers have discovered a causal link between the gut microbiome and anti-tumor immunity, identifying key bacterial strains that activate the immune system to slow melanoma growth. The study also reveals the role of unfolded protein response (UPR) in this process, providing potential markers for patient stratification.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 2, 2019

Study finds natural selection favors cheaters

Research found that natural selection favors cheating rhizobia that provide fewer benefits to their host plants, destabilizing mutualisms. The study suggests that beneficial bacteria services vary in natural systems and can be exploited by cheater strains.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalEcology Letters·DateMar 19, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Novel potent antimicrobial from thermophilic bacterium

Researchers have discovered a novel glycocin, a small antimicrobial peptide with a sugar group attached, produced by the thermophilic bacterium Aeribacillus palladius. The compound has been successfully expressed in E. coli bacteria, making it easier to produce and investigate. This breakthrough could lead to new alternatives for biofu...

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 12, 2019

Proof of pimple: Mouse model validates how 'good' and 'bad' bacteria affect acne

Researchers have developed a new mouse model that closely resembles human acne by adding synthetic sebum, allowing them to directly compare 'good' and 'bad' strains of Propionibacterium acnes bacteria. The study found that acne-associated strains caused inflammation and lesions, while health-associated strains had minimal effect.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJCI Insight·DateMar 7, 2019

Luminescent bacteria in squid light organ drive systemic changes in host

Researchers found that luminescent bacteria in the squid's light organ change gene expression in other organs, highlighting the importance of bacterial bioluminescence. The study also shows that coordination between the eye and light organ is crucial for the animal's behavior.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2019

Light wakes up freshwater bacteria

Researchers discovered that freshwater bacteria grow faster in daylight and use blue light absorption mechanisms to regulate growth. The study suggests that these bacteria have special genes that allow them to sense light and adjust their metabolism accordingly.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalJournal of Bacteriology·DateFeb 27, 2019
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.

Technique identifies electricity-producing bacteria

MIT engineers develop a microfluidic technique to quickly assess bacteria's electrochemical activity, finding a strong correlation between polarizability and electricity production. This breakthrough could lead to new applications in power generation and environmental cleanup.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 11, 2019

Strep bacteria compete for 'ownership' of human tissue

A new study found that Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria that occupy human host tissue first are more likely to thrive than competing strains. The researchers discovered that these 'owners' release toxins to kill intruders, while also releasing protective factors to defend themselves.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Microbiology·DateDec 10, 2018

Scientists designed nanocontainers for bacterial metabolism control

Researchers from ITMO University developed nanocontainers that can translate light signals into metabolic changes in bacteria, opening a new way to control bacterial growth. The containers are made of titanium dioxide nanoparticles coated with silver and polymers, and can be used for controlled drug delivery.

SourceITMO University·JournalBioconjugate Chemistry·DateNov 23, 2018
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.

Detecting E. coli strains using molecular electronics

A team of scientists has developed a new method for detecting specific strains of E. coli using molecular electronics, which could lead to rapid and straightforward detection of pathogens and antimicrobial resistant bacterial strains.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateNov 5, 2018

Can bacteria colonies be good neighbors?

Researchers studied bacterial ecological systems using experiments and computer models to investigate population dynamics, identifying key role of stochastic effects in early colony patterning. They also found that interactions between neighboring bacteria can amplify local variation, influencing competition outcomes.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalPhysical Biology·DateOct 31, 2018

Probiotics and antibiotics create a killer combination

A new study by MIT researchers shows that combining antibiotic drugs with probiotics can eradicate two strains of drug-resistant bacteria that infect wounds. The probiotic bacteria were encapsulated in a protective shell of alginate to prevent them from being killed by the antibiotics.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 17, 2018

Blue roses could be coming soon to a garden near you

Researchers have successfully created a blue rose through genetic engineering by expressing pigment-producing enzymes from bacteria in white roses, resulting in a blue color. The team's breakthrough could lead to the mass production of true-blue roses without dye or injections.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·DateOct 10, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Study IDs why some TB bacteria prove deadly

Researchers found that a single mutation in TB bacteria makes them resistant to antibiotics and elicits a weaker immune response, leading to higher mortality rates. The study suggests that the same approach may not work for drug-resistant TB strains.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Microbiology·DateSep 17, 2018
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.

Leptospirosis strains identified in Uruguay cattle

Researchers identified 40 different Leptospira strains in Uruguay cattle, including rare isolates and serotypes matching those found in human leptospirosis patients. The discovery highlights the need for improved diagnostic tools and vaccination strategies to mitigate the risk of human infection.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateSep 13, 2018

New bacterial strain named after Cornish discovery

A new bacterial strain, Staphylococcus cornubiensis, has been identified from a skin infection in Cornwall. The strain is genetically unique and likely belongs to the Staphylococcus intermedius group, which is also associated with pets.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SYSTEMATIC AND EVOLUTIONARY MICROBIOLOGY·DateSep 11, 2018

UTA biochemists study enzymes to provide keys for drug development

Researchers are mapping the function of specific enzymes that may facilitate the development of new drugs to fight bacterial infections and cancer. The study could also potentially help against neurodegenerative diseases such as autism, Down syndrome, Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer's.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateAug 30, 2018

A new take on fighting multi-drug resistant bacteria

Researchers at UH University have won a $3.5M grant to develop technology suggesting the best combinations of antibiotics to kill certain resistant bacteria. The project aims to combat antibiotic resistance, a major public health threat.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateAug 29, 2018

Clay to fight bacteria in wounds: An old practice may be a new solution

Researchers at Mayo Clinic and Arizona State University have discovered that a type of clay can kill certain bacteria causing infections in wounds. The clay's antibacterial properties were tested against various bacterial strains, including those resistant to antibiotics.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalInternational Journal of Antimicrobial Agents·DateAug 21, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Gene study pinpoints superbug link between people and animals

A gene study pinpoints how Staphylococcus aureus bacteria can jump between species, acquiring new genes that enable survival in a new host. The research highlights the importance of disease surveillance to spot strains that could cause major epidemics and informs strategies for managing infections.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 23, 2018

Transmission of NDM bacteria between dogs and humans established

A recent study published in Eurosurveillance confirms that NDM bacteria can be transmitted between dogs and humans, with the owner of two Finnish dogs also carrying the bacterium. The transmission was established through genome analysis, which revealed identical bacterial isolates from dogs and humans.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalEurosurveillance·DateJul 9, 2018

Bacteria can 'divide and conquer' to vanquish their enemies

Researchers discovered that bacteria can use provoking toxins to increase aggression levels in competing strains, leading to the elimination of weaker strains. This strategy could be exploited to manipulate microbial communities and fight infections, particularly resistant biofilms.

SourceImperial College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 2, 2018
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.

Boston College team reports technology to enable precision antibiotics

A new platform enables quick discovery of molecules that recognize specific strains of bacteria, overcoming challenges in developing targeted antibiotics. The approach uses phage display with chemically enhanced peptides, resulting in potent and selective probes against two antibiotic-resistant bacterial pathogens.

SourceBoston College·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 27, 2018

Scientists watch bacteria 'harpoon' DNA to speed their evolution

Researchers at Indiana University have made the first direct observation of bacteria using a 'DNA harpoon' process to rapidly evolve new traits, including antibiotic resistance. The study revealed that pili act like microscopic harpooners to cast their line through pores in the cell's wall and reel in DNA fragments.

SourceIndiana University·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJun 11, 2018

Drug resistance genes shared among bacteria in hospitals can be deadly

A hospital outbreak of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) revealed that resistance genes were being shared among unrelated bacteria via plasmids and other mobile genetic elements. This finding highlights the need to expand infection control efforts to include multiple strains and species to halt outbreaks.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 10, 2018
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.

Study suggests scientists can use microbial measurements to gauge river flow

Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a tool that can accurately predict the flow rate of Arctic rivers based on bacterial abundance and composition. By analyzing microbial profiles, scientists can estimate discharge levels without deploying traditional flow meters in remote areas.

SourceOregon State University·JournalWater Resources Research·DateMay 31, 2018

Stanford scientists use dietary seaweed to manipulate gut bacteria in mice

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have shown that manipulating a mouse's diet can favor the engraftment of specific bacterial strains. By adding a carbohydrate-rich compound, they were able to control how much a bacterium grows in the intestine and even introduce new strains into the gut microbiome.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature·DateMay 9, 2018

Machine learning flags emerging pathogens

A new machine learning tool can identify genetic changes in emerging strains of Salmonella that are more likely to cause dangerous bloodstream infections. The tool was developed using a dataset of old lineages and identified almost 200 genes involved in determining the pathogen's behavior.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMay 8, 2018

Even short travel can spread colistin-resistant bacteria

Researchers at Osaka University found that short trips to developing countries significantly increase the appearance of colistin-resistant bacteria in Japanese travelers. The study tracked 19 participants who traveled for less than 2 weeks and discovered nearly 90% of travel events resulted in resistant strains.

SourceOsaka University·JournalInfection and Drug Resistance·DateApr 10, 2018
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.

How did gonorrhea become a drug-resistant superbug?

The gonorrhea bacterium has developed resistance to multiple antibiotics, with ceftriaxone being the last effective option. Researchers identified mutations that enable resistance to ceftriaxone, which also impairs growth rate, but lab experiments showed resistant strains can quickly outcompete non-resistant strains.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalmBio·DateApr 4, 2018

Molecular cuisine for gut bacteria

A team of EMBL scientists has developed a comprehensive 'cookbook' for growing and studying 96 diverse gut bacterial strains. The research reveals unexpected nutritional preferences and growth characteristics of these bacteria, providing valuable insights into the human gut microbiome.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Microbiology·DateMar 19, 2018

Model of fecal transplantation predicts which bacteria will flourish

A statistical model predicts which bacteria will engraft after fecal transplantation, providing a context for developing synthetic probiotics. The study found that recipient microbiome and immune state play roles in successful FMT, and new bacteria are acquired from both donors and recipients.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateFeb 14, 2018

Research presents new information about the Flint water crisis

A statistical analysis found that most Legionnaires' disease cases in Flint can be attributed to the city's switch to the Flint River water source. The study also identified a specific strain of Legionella isolated from Flint residences that is not easily detectable by common diagnostic tests.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2018
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 have discovered a new type of Botox

Researchers identify a new source of botulinum toxin in Enterococcus faecium bacteria, which can be transferred between species and has implications for protein therapeutics and monitoring emerging pathogens.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateJan 26, 2018

The bacterial 'Game of Thrones'

A study by University of Oxford researchers reveals that bacteria approach conflict in a coordinated manner, responding to threats with collective retaliation. The research shows that different strains exhibit varying levels of aggression and can even detect incoming attacks to warn other cells, enabling sophisticated defense strategies.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 25, 2018

Are amoebae safe harbors for plague?

Plague bacteria survive and replicate for up to 48 hours inside an amoeba, replicating and thriving in a way most bacteria do not. The discovery sheds new light on the persistence of plague outbreaks, which can smolder for years before re-emerging with a vengeance.

SourceColorado State University·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateJan 16, 2018

Virus-bacteria coevolutionary 'arms race' solves diversity paradox by 'Killing the Winner'

Researchers have shed new light on the diversity paradox by developing a stochastic model of bacteria-virus interactions. Their findings suggest that the coevolutionary arms race between bacteria and viruses leads to diverse populations and boom-bust cycles, preventing any single species from dominating the ecosystem.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 2, 2018
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.

New tool could help maintain quality during cheese production

A team of Norwegian researchers has developed a tool to monitor bacterial strains in cheese cultures, enabling prompt detection and countermeasures to maintain quality. The tool uses next-generation sequencing to analyze the epsD gene, which is involved in resisting phage and producing exopolysaccharide.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateDec 8, 2017