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Diet has a bigger say on gut microbes than the intestinal defense molecules

A study by researchers at Umeå University found that diet plays a much stronger role in shaping the intestinal microbiota composition than previously thought. The study also suggested that intestinal defense molecules may help protect against metabolic disorders when consuming an unhealthy Western-style diet.

SourceUmea University·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 3, 2023

Bloodstream infections in preemies may originate from their gut microbiomes

A study published in Science Translational Medicine suggests that preterm infants' gut microbiomes play a role in the development of dangerous bacterial bloodstream infections. The researchers found that the most common bacteria causing these infections are also commonly found in the gut, and that antibiotics can disrupt the balance of...

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMay 3, 2023

The intestinal ecosystem directly affects anorexia

An international team of scientists discovered that a severe imbalance in the intestinal microbes and gut microbiome-produced metabolites may directly affect the development and retention of anorexia nervosa. The study suggests that specific gut bacteria produce less vitamin B1, leading to loss of appetite and various symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2023

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
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Gut bacteria could be behind weaker immune responses to COVID-19 vaccine

A study published in Communications Biology suggests that gut bacteria's digestion of fucose sugar may be behind weaker immune responses to the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine. Individuals with lower T-cell responses had higher expression of genes FOS and ATF3, which are part of a larger group controlling T-cell survival and activity.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeObservational study·DateApr 20, 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.

Your baby’s gut is crawling with unknown viruses

Researchers found an exceptional number of unknown viruses in the faeces of 647 healthy Danish one-year-olds, representing more than 200 families of yet to be described viruses. These viral species likely have a major impact on whether children develop various diseases later on in life.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Microbiology·DateApr 11, 2023

UC Riverside-led study sheds light on how IBD can develop

A UC Riverside-led study found that reduced PTPN2 activity in intestinal epithelial cells leads to decreased Paneth cell antimicrobial peptide production, disrupting the gut microbiota and increasing E. coli. This loss can serve as a marker of IBD disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 7, 2023

Study reveals how diet and probiotics boost melanoma immunotherapy response

Researchers found that probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus reuteri stimulates cancer-killing T cells by secreting indole-3-aldehyde, which activates a receptor in CD8 cells. A diet rich in tryptophan enhances the effect of immunotherapy on shrinking tumors and prolonging survival.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 2023

A healthy microbiome may prevent deadly infections in critically ill people

A UCalgary study found that a healthy gut microbiome can prevent deadly hospital infections in critically ill patients. The research showed that the gut microbiota and immune system work together to fight infection, with abnormal gut bacteria increasing the risk of severe infections.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalNature Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 31, 2023
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.

Vaginal microbiome does not influence babies’ gut microbiome

Researchers found that a mother's vaginal microbiome composition does not significantly affect the infant stool microbiome in early life. Factors such as breast milk and antibiotic exposure play a larger role in shaping the baby's gut microbiome.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 31, 2023

Engineered E. coli delivers therapeutic nanobodies to the gut

Researchers engineered a strain of E. coli to secrete proteins that block inflammation and inhibit tumor necrosis factor alpha, showing efficacy comparable to injected antibodies in mice with inflammatory bowel disease. The engineered bacteria offer a potential treatment for intestinal-based diseases with reduced side effects.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateMar 31, 2023

Babies’ gut microbiome not influenced by mothers’ vaginal microbiome composition

A recent study published in Frontiers found that maternal vaginal microbiome composition does not significantly influence the development of infants' stool microbiome during the first weeks and months of life. Instead, exposure to breast milk and environmental factors are believed to play a more significant role.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 30, 2023

How the gut creates a cozy home for beneficial microbiome species

Fruit fly gut remodels itself to accommodate beneficial microbiome species, maintaining long-term stability of the gut environment. The research team identified physical conditions and substances that facilitate colonization by desirable species.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 29, 2023

Human body a breeding ground for antimicrobial resistance genes

Researchers found that healthy individuals have a median of 16 antimicrobial resistance genes in their gut microbiome, varying across countries and antibiotic use. National antibiotic consumption levels correlate with resistance gene frequencies, highlighting the need for public health strategies to mitigate AMR.

SourceEarlham Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 27, 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.

The heart benefits of walnuts likely come from the gut

A new study found that eating walnuts may alter the mix of gut microbes in a way that increases the body's production of amino acid L-homoarginine, which has been linked to lower cardiovascular risk. Researchers also discovered higher levels of certain bacteria in the gut of participants on the walnut diet.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateMar 25, 2023

How fit is your gut microbiome?

A recent study found that moderate exercise duration (≥150 minutes/week) improves gut microbiome richness and diversity, with no significant impact from exercise intensity. Additionally, normal-weight individuals showed the most beneficial changes, while overweight individuals' microbiomes were influenced by poor dietary habits.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateMar 22, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Dual immunotherapy plus chemotherapy before surgery improves patient outcomes in operable lung cancer

A Phase II trial led by researchers from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center demonstrated that adding ipilimumab to a neoadjuvant combination of nivolumab plus platinum-based chemotherapy resulted in a major pathologic response in half of all treated patients with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer. The treatment also...

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 16, 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.

Wastewater study discovers virtue and vice in community diet

Researchers at Arizona State University used wastewater-based epidemiology to monitor dietary behavior in a small residential district. The study found significant spikes in phytoestrogen levels and human gut metabolites associated with changes in diet, such as increased isoflavonoid consumption from soy-based foods.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Food·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2023

Colorectal cancer surgery: Gut microbiota helps healing

Researchers at the University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre identified two bacterial strains that can either increase or decrease the risk of intestinal leakage after surgery. Modifying patients' gut microbiota before surgery may reduce postoperative complications and improve recovery.

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalGut·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2023
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.

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

Multiple sclerosis discovery could end disease’s chronic inflammation

Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System have identified a vital contributor to hyperactive immune responses and neuroinflammation in multiple sclerosis. Blocking this regulator alleviated harmful inflammation in lab mice, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for new treatments.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·DateFeb 16, 2023

Consuming prunes changes the gut microbiome in postmenopausal women

A new study found that daily prune consumption for 12 months altered the gut microbiome in postmenopausal women, enriching beneficial bacteria like those from the Lachnospiraceae family. This may contribute to improved gut health and reduced inflammation.

SourceFleishman-Hillard, Sacramento·JournalFood & Function·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 15, 2023

Purple vegetables and tubers have antidiabetic properties

Acylated anthocyanins found in purple potatoes, sweet potatoes, and carrots have been shown to reduce type 2 diabetes risk by affecting glucose transporters and enzymes involved in metabolism. These compounds also maintain gut microbiota homeostasis and suppress pro-inflammatory pathways.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 15, 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.

Mother’s blessing: microbiota from mothers regulates lung immunity in newborns

A new study discovered that maternal γδ T cells influence the transfer of microorganisms during birth and nursing, impacting lung immune response in newborns. This discovery highlights the role of gut microbiota in modulating lung immunity and has implications for understanding the first breath response.

SourceInstituto de Medicina Molecular·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 2023

UCalgary study finds link between fungal microbes in infant gut and body weight

A UCalgary study has found a significant link between the diversity of fungal species in an infant's gut and their body mass index (BMI) in early childhood. The research also identified other contributing factors, including maternal diet and exposure to antibiotics, as influencing BMI.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 9, 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
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Current microbiome analyses may falsely detect species that are not actually present

A study published in PLOS ONE found that common microbiome analysis techniques can yield erroneous results due to incomplete DNA databases. The researchers used computer simulations to test the consistency of current methods, showing that a large number of detected species are not actually present in the community.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 8, 2023

Microbiome disturbances reported as signature of chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis

Researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health have identified differences in gut microbiomes between people with ME/CFS and healthy controls. Gut bacteria Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Eubacterium rectale, which are normally health-promoting, were reduced in ME/CFS participants. The study found a deficient mic...

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 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
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.

Probiotic markedly reduces S. Aureus colonization in phase 2 trial

A Phase 2 clinical trial found that a probiotic reduced S. aureus colonization by 96.8% in the stool and 65.4% in the nose. The probiotic Bacillus subtilis was administered orally, surviving passage through the stomach, and did not harm gut microbiota.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Lancet Microbe·DateJan 17, 2023

Deep meditation may alter gut microbes for better health

A study found that Tibetan Buddhist monks with long-term deep meditation practice had distinct gut microbiome profiles, associated with lower risks of anxiety, depression, and cardiovascular disease. Their gut microbiota was enriched with beneficial bacteria that may influence mental health.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalGeneral Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateJan 16, 2023

A novel, powerful tool to unveil the communication between gut microbes and the brain

A novel laboratory protocol enables researchers to investigate connections between gut microbes and the brain, shedding light on how microbes influence the central nervous system. The tool allows for comprehensive evaluation of metabolites produced by microbes, providing insights into their role in health and disease.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Protocols·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2023

Gut bacteria affect brain health, mouse study shows

A recent study suggests that the gut microbiome affects brain behavior, immune cells and neurodegeneration. Altering the gut microbiome could be an effective way to prevent or treat neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 12, 2023
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 study puts gut microbiome at the center of Parkinson’s disease pathogenesis

A recent study published in Nature Communications has found a significant imbalance in the gut microbiome of individuals with Parkinson's disease. The researchers discovered that over 30% of micro-organisms and bacterial genes tested had altered abundances, indicating a widespread imbalance in the microbiome.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 10, 2023

Differences in gut microbiome linked to risk of death in COVID-19 patients with respiratory failure

A study found that patients with severe COVID-19 who suffered progressive lung failure had a different gut microbiome composition compared to those who recovered. The research identified key differences in bacteria and metabolites, including higher levels of Proteobacteria and lower levels of secondary bile acids in dying patients.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 9, 2023

Gut bacteria may play a role in diabetes

Researchers found that people with higher levels of Coprococcus tended to have higher insulin sensitivity, while those with Flavonifractor had lower insulin sensitivity. The study aimed to understand the relationship between microbiome composition and diabetes development.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalDiabetes·DateJan 4, 2023
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.

Some guts are better than others at harvesting energy

Research found that approximately 40% of Danish population has gut microbes that extract more energy from food, leading to a higher risk of obesity. This composition of gut microbes is also associated with faster digestion and greater nutrient extraction.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalMicrobiome·DateDec 25, 2022

Poor gut health may drive multiple sclerosis — better diet may ease it

Researchers at Rutgers University found a link between poor gut health and multiple sclerosis, suggesting that dietary adjustments like increased fiber may slow disease progression. The study also identified fecal Lcn-2 levels as a sensitive marker for detecting unhealthy changes in the gut microbiome of MS patients.

SourceRutgers University·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022

Oral contraceptives impact on women’s health: Age and gut microbiome may be determining factors

Research from the University of Ottawa finds that oral contraceptives' effects on brain and mood in women may be linked to age of onset and gut microbiome. The study suggests adolescence as a critical period for understanding OCs' impact, as it influences brain development and hormonal changes.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalFrontiers in Neuroendocrinology·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 15, 2022
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

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

Racism takes its toll on brain and body

A new study finds that discrimination influences the central and enteric nervous systems, altering the bidirectional signaling between the brain and gut microbiome. This leads to changes in systemic inflammation, emotional arousal, and psychological symptoms across different racial and ethnic groups.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 13, 2022
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

A self-powered ingestible sensor opens new avenues for gut research

UC San Diego researchers have developed a self-powered ingestible biosensing system that provides continuous monitoring of gut metabolites, unlocking new understanding of intestinal health and its impact on human health. The battery-free sensor is powered by glucose and can measure glucose levels in the small intestine for up to 14 hours.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2022

Multiple sclerosis therapy improves gut flora

Researchers found that dimethyl fumarate treatment increased the proportion of beneficial gut bacteria and reduced pro-inflammatory types, which are associated with MS. The study suggests a potential connection between gut flora and clinical side effects, paving the way for personalized treatment approaches.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalGut Microbes·DateDec 1, 2022

How gravity may cause irritable bowel syndrome

A new theory proposes that irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may be caused by the body's inability to manage gravity. The hypothesis suggests that gravity can compress the spine, decrease flexibility, and cause organs to shift downward, leading to IBS symptoms.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalThe American Journal of Gastroenterology·DateDec 1, 2022
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.