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Digital microbes for munching yourself healthy

A research team at the University of Luxembourg has developed a computer model of the human gut microbiome, capturing the metabolic processes of 773 bacterial strains. The model, called AGORA, can simulate metabolic processes and investigate how they affect other microbes and the human host.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateNov 29, 2016

Genes, early environment sculpt the gut microbiome

Research found that genetics and early environment significantly influence the gut microbiome, with similar genes linked to human diseases like arthritis and diabetes. The study also discovered a strong correlation between specific microbes and T-helper cells in the blood.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Microbiology·DateNov 28, 2016

Gut's microbial community shown to influence host gene expression

A study has identified the gut microbiome's role in regulating host gene expression through the epigenome. A plant-based diet favors a healthier microbiome and promotes interplay between microbes and host cells. This research suggests that a Western diet may disrupt this communication, leading to potential health issues.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalMolecular Cell·DateNov 23, 2016
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.

How important is the gut microbiome? It may depend on your genetics

Researchers found that genetic background affects response to antibiotics on gut microbiome, insulin sensitivity, tissue inflammation, and metabolic functions in mice. This study suggests that genetic susceptibility plays a role in predicting the usefulness of microbiome therapies for obesity and metabolic disease.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 7, 2016

Making the microbiome part of precision medicine

The microbiome plays a crucial role in human health and disease, making it essential for personalized medicine. Research suggests that understanding the microbiome's interactions with genetics, environment, and lifestyle can lead to more effective treatments, including targeted therapies and antibiotics.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalTrends in Pharmacological Sciences·DateNov 1, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Sleep loss tied to changes of the gut microbiota in humans

A new study found that curtailing sleep for four hours a night altered the abundance of bacterial gut species in healthy men, previously associated with metabolic diseases. Insulin sensitivity also decreased, but this was unrelated to changes in gut microbiota.

SourceUppsala University·JournalMolecular Metabolism·DateOct 25, 2016

Chinese investigators characterize the world of resistance gene exchange among bacteria

A team of Chinese researchers characterized the 'mobile resistome,' a network of easily transferred antibiotic resistance genes between bacteria, including humans and animals. The study found that these genes are shared among multiple human pathogens and can be disabling for six major classes of antibiotics.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateSep 9, 2016

Monkeys in zoos have human gut bacteria

A new study found that captive monkeys in zoos lose their native gut bacteria diversity and acquire a set similar to humans. The researchers suggest that a low-fiber Western diet may be the cause, as it led to a loss of microbial diversity in both captive and semi-captive populations.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 30, 2016
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.

Study establishes the first public collection of bacteria from the intestine of mice

Scientists have established the first public collection of bacteria from the intestine of mice, providing comprehensive information on the mouse gut microbiota. The collection includes 76 cultured bacterial species, including 15 previously unknown taxa, and sheds light on the interactions between gut bacteria and their host.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Microbiology·DateAug 12, 2016

How do the bugs in your gut affect neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases?

The gut microbiome plays a complex role in cognitive and psychiatric disorders, including autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. Researchers are exploring synthetic biology to develop engineered bacteria that can remodel the gut microbiota and treat these conditions.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBioResearch Open Access·DateAug 9, 2016

Maternal high-fat diet during pregnancy can affect baby's gut microbes

Researchers found that babies born to mothers on high-fat diets had distinct gut microbiomes with fewer Bacteroides microbes, affecting energy extraction and immune system development. The study suggests a potential link between maternal diet and infant microbiome, emphasizing the importance of considering fat intake in prenatal care.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalGenome Medicine·DateAug 8, 2016
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.

AGA establishes NIH-funded registry to track fecal microbiota transplants

The AGA Fecal Microbiota Transplantation National Registry aims to protect patient safety while providing valuable data on the potential health risks of FMT. The registry will collect information from patients undergoing FMT at sites across the US, following them for up to 10 years to monitor adverse events and effectiveness.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·DateAug 4, 2016

Biologists home in on paleo gut for clues to our evolutionary history

A new study reveals that the evolution of gut bacteria in humans and hominids parallels ape evolution, suggesting a long-term co-evolution between hosts and microbes. The research sheds light on the importance of the human microbiome and its connection to our evolutionary history.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience·DateJul 21, 2016
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.

UI researcher finds link between gut bacteria and MS

A recent study published in Scientific Reports found a distinct gut microbiome in multiple sclerosis patients compared to healthy individuals. The research suggests that patients with MS have reduced levels of beneficial bacteria, which are associated with overall health benefits.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 27, 2016
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.

Insights into the ecology of the microbiome

Researchers found universal (host-independent) dynamics for healthy individuals' gut and mouth microbiomes. Fecal microbiota transplantation therapy also relied on these shared patterns to treat C. difficile infections.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature·DateJun 13, 2016

Unraveling the food web in your gut

Researchers discovered that bacteria in the human gut have specialized functions and are not always beneficial. The study found that certain bacteria can produce unhealthy compounds when fermenting proteins, contradicting previous assumptions about the link between diversity and host health.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJun 13, 2016

What makes a small worm a popular model

Researchers created a comprehensive metabolic model of C. elegans, linking over 2,000 processes to identify genes contributing to lifespan extension. The 'ElegCyc' model enables analysis of large datasets and will aid in understanding human diseases and microbiome interactions.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalCell Systems·DateJun 8, 2016
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.

War and peace in the human gut: Probing the microbiome

A new study examines the role of diet in promoting cooperation or conflict between gut microbes and human cells. The research proposes a framework for understanding the subtle interplay of diet and health, with potential implications for the management of inflammatory and metabolic disease.

SourceArizona State University·JournalAnnals of the New York Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016

The best of AGA science at DDW® 2016

At DDW 2016, AGA presents notable clinical practice data and basic science research on the gut microbiome. The conference features seven highlighted abstracts focusing on obesity management, hollow organ failure, and upper GI cancers.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·DateMay 16, 2016
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.

Targeted antibiotic is easier on the gut microbiome

A targeted antibiotic, Debio 1452, was found to minimize disruptions to the gut microbiome in mice compared to broad-spectrum antibiotics. The study suggests that pathogen-selective approaches to antibiotic development can help preserve beneficial bacteria and prevent secondary infections.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateMay 9, 2016

Breast milk hormones found to impact bacterial development in infants' guts

A CU Anschutz study finds that breast milk hormones impact the development of healthy bacteria in infants' guts, potentially protecting them from intestinal inflammation, obesity, and diseases. Researchers found a positive association between insulin, leptin, and microbial diversity in the infant's stool.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMay 4, 2016

Bugs as drugs

Researchers at Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute have catalogued over 130 human intestine bacteria, enabling them to study the microbiome's role in health and disease. The discoveries hold promise for creating tailored treatments with specific beneficial bacteria.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature·DateMay 4, 2016

The gut microbiomes of infants have an impact on autoimmunity

A global study found that gut microbiomes of infants in Finland and Estonia are dominated by Bacteroides species, while Russian Karelian infants have an overrepresentation of Bifidobacterium. This difference may contribute to the spike in immune disorders seen in western societies.

SourceAalto University·JournalCell·DateApr 29, 2016
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Special microbiome issue

Research identifies 14 core gut microbes found in over 95% of people, with certain species linked to diseases like ulcerative colitis and colorectal cancer. Analysis also reveals correlations between microbiome composition and diet, as well as the impact of medications and antibiotics on the gut microbiota.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 28, 2016

Gut feeling: ONR research examines link between stomach bacteria, PTSD

Researchers studying intestinal bacteria and their effect on the human brain and mood found that an imbalance in gut microbiota can lead to heightened anxiety and stress. Feeding stressed mice probiotics improved behavior and reduced stress biomarkers, suggesting a potential treatment for PTSD.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·JournalThe Canadian Journal of Psychiatry·DateApr 25, 2016
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.

Gut microbes help sustain body growth despite malnutrition

A study showed that transferring healthy gut microbial species from children to mice can counter the negative effects of malnutrition, suggesting a possible therapeutic approach. Certain microbe species offset malnutrition's detrimental effects, enabling normal growth in undernourished children.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 18, 2016

How does the gut microbiota respond to iron replacement?

A study published in Gut journal found that oral and intravenous iron replacement therapies alter the gut microbiota significantly, particularly in Crohn's disease patients. These changes may lead to unstable bacterial ecosystems and increased risk of disease flares.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalGut·DateFeb 17, 2016
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.

Gregarious chimps harbor richer gut microbiomes

Researchers found that the number of bacterial species in a chimp's GI tract increases when they are more gregarious. The study suggests that social interactions with other chimps help maintain gut microbial diversity over a lifetime, just as initial exposure from mom does.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 15, 2016

Sociable chimps harbor richer gut microbiomes

Researchers found that chimpanzees with more frequent social interactions had more diverse gut microbiomes. The study suggests that social networks play a crucial role in maintaining healthy gut microbial diversity, a finding with potential implications for human health.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 15, 2016
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.

A cultural revolution in the study of the gut microbiome

Scientists have developed a human-gut-on-a-chip model that allows them to analyze the interactions between normal gut microbes and pathogenic bacteria, providing new insights into inflammatory bowel diseases. The technology has revealed four small proteins that stimulate inflammation, opening up a potential therapeutic pathway for trea...

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 14, 2015

Altered microbiome burns fewer calories

A University of Iowa study found that changes in the gut microbiome can cause obesity by reducing the resting metabolic rate, leading to weight gain. The researchers discovered a significant decrease in non-aerobic resting metabolic rate sufficient to account for the animals' weight gain.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalEBioMedicine·DateDec 14, 2015

First look at gut microbes in an American Indian community

Researchers analyzed stool samples from 38 adults in the Cheyenne and Arapaho tribe, finding reduced abundance of certain bacteria and similar fecal metabolite profiles to those with metabolic disorders. The study suggests that lifestyle and social practices may play a role in health disparities among American Indians.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 3, 2015

Now is the time to uncover the secrets of the Earth's microbiomes

The Unified Microbiome Initiative aims to study the planet's least understood ecosystems, with potential breakthroughs in medicine, agriculture and environmental science. New genomic tools have linked microbes to various health issues, including obesity and brain development.

SourceThe Kavli Foundation·JournalScience·DateDec 2, 2015
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.

How depleting the gut microbiota protects from obesity

Scientists from Université de Genève found that depleting the gut microbiota triggers a metabolic mechanism that transforms white fat cells into beige fat, reducing obesity and insulin resistance. This discovery could lead to new anti-obesity treatments.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Medicine·DateNov 16, 2015

Gut microbiota regulates antioxidant metabolism

A study published in Molecular Systems Biology reveals that gut microbiota regulates glutathione and amino acid metabolism in mice, which may contribute to the development of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other diseases. The research also highlights the potential for probiotics to deliver beneficial bacteria to the gut and prevent meta...

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·DateNov 6, 2015
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.

How diet may affect the progression of multiple sclerosis

Research found that long-chain fatty acids promote CNS reactive immune cells, while short-chain fatty acids regulate autoimmune responses. The study suggests a potential role for dietary interventions in managing multiple sclerosis.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalImmunity·DateOct 21, 2015
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.

MIT scientists hack one of the most common bacteria in human intestines

Researchers at MIT successfully engineered Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron to express genes on demand, allowing for precise control over its functions in the mouse gut microbiome. This breakthrough has significant implications for tackling health-related problems and may lead to the development of new therapeutic applications.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Systems·DateJul 9, 2015

Repeated courses of antibiotics may profoundly alter children's development

A new study by NYU Langone Medical Center researchers found that multiple courses of commonly used antibiotics in children can have significant effects on their development. The study showed that antibiotic-exposed mice gained more weight and developed larger bones than untreated mice, while also disrupting the gut microbiome.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 30, 2015
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.