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Re-booting the human gut

A Wyss Institute team is developing genetically engineered bacteria that can sense, report, and combat harmful microbial invaders in the human gut. The team aims to create a probiotic pill form of the microbes that could reduce the length of gastrointestinal illness, returning individuals to their activities sooner.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·DateJun 16, 2015

Immune cells support good gut bacteria in fight against harmful bacteria

Research at University of Chicago Medical Center reveals how immune system shapes gut microbiota to limit infections, providing a potential new approach to prevent bacterial infections without antibiotics. The study identifies a critical protein ID2 that plays a key role in this process.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalImmunity·DateApr 21, 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.

Western lifestyle may limit the diversity of bacteria in the gut

Researchers found that Papua New Guineans have microbiomes with greater bacterial diversity and lower inter-individual variation compared to US residents. The study proposes a model based on ecological theory that explains the decline of microbiota diversity in urban-industrialized societies.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 16, 2015

Study shows rats fed a dietary fiber supplement had better weight control

A University of Calgary study found that rats fed a fibre supplement while on a high fat and high sugar diet showed a much lower weight gain than those who did not eat the fibre. The study suggests that oligofructose, a naturally occurring dietary fibre, may help reduce weight gain by affecting gut microbiota and gut hormones.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalObesity·DateApr 8, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Team discovers link between lifestyles of indigenous communities & gut microbial ecologies

A team of researchers has discovered a strong association between the lifestyles of indigenous communities and their gut microbial ecologies. The study found that hunter-gatherers in South America and Africa have similar gut microbiota profiles, while urban-industrialists have distinct profiles, suggesting a link between lifestyle and ...

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 25, 2015

Researchers find link between microbiome, type 1 diabetes

A longitudinal study found that infants who developed type 1 diabetes had a significant drop in microbial diversity prior to disease onset, including a decrease in health-promoting bacteria and an increase in potentially harmful ones. The study also revealed stable biological functions served by the microbiome across individuals.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateFeb 5, 2015

Another breastfeeding benefit: Preparing baby's belly for solid food

Researchers found that exclusively breastfed babies had microbial communities more ready for solid foods, while those with mixed diets experienced a dramatic shift. This study provides support for exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateFeb 5, 2015

Among gut microbes, strains, not just species, matter

A large-scale analysis of the gut microbiome has identified significant variations in gene copy numbers across different strains of the same microbe species. These strain-level variations can affect the microbes' capabilities, lifestyle, and impact on human health, including obesity and inflammatory bowel disease.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalCell·DateJan 29, 2015
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

You are what you eat -- How gut bacteria affect brain health

Research explores how gut bacteria influence brain activity, sleep, stress responses, and disease development. The human microbiome's role in brain function is a growing area of study, with potential therapeutic applications through dietary modification.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Medicinal Food·DateJan 22, 2015

Compared with apes, people's gut bacteria lack diversity, study finds

Researchers found that humans have less diverse gut microbiomes than African apes, with a possible link to modern diets and lifestyle changes. The rate of change in microbial diversity accelerated in humans from some parts of the world, potentially leading to negative health effects.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 3, 2014
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.

Autism Speaks commits $2.3 million to research on gut-brain connection

Two major research projects will investigate the microbiome and its impact on autism symptoms, as well as chronic constipation treatment to improve behavioral symptoms. The studies aim to establish clear guidelines for personalized treatments and may lead to stool tests guiding treatments for autism and its associated medical conditions.

SourceAutism Speaks·DateOct 22, 2014

Gut bacteria, artificial sweeteners and glucose intolerance

Researchers found that artificial sweeteners can induce glucose intolerance by changing the composition and function of the gut microbiota. The study used mice and human data to show that certain bacteria in the gut react to artificial sweeteners, leading to inflammation and metabolic changes.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature·DateSep 17, 2014

Do gut bacteria rule our minds?

Researchers found that gut bacteria can sway food choices by releasing signaling molecules into the gut, influencing physiological and behavioral responses. The microbiome's diversity of interests can be manipulated through diet and supplement changes, offering a tractable approach to obesity and unhealthy eating.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalBioEssays·DateAug 15, 2014
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Monitoring the rise and fall of the microbiome

A study tracking bacterial populations over a year found daily fluctuations in response to diet and other factors. The researchers also discovered that certain strains of bacteria, such as Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, can be protected against inflammatory bowel disease by eating citrus.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalGenome Biology·DateJul 24, 2014

BGI presents a high-quality gene catalog of human gut microbiome

Researchers have established a comprehensive catalog of the human gut microbial genes, with over 9.8 million genes available for global researchers to explore. The study highlights differences in nutrient metabolism and xenobiotic detoxification between Chinese and Danish adults, as well as enrichment in antibiotic resistance genes.

SourceBGI Shenzhen·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJul 6, 2014

Gastroenterology highlights new microbiome research

The AGA Institute published a special issue on the intestinal microbiome, exploring its role in maintaining human health and developing certain diseases. The research focuses on basic concepts, gut microbiome and disease interactions, and modification of the microbiome to maintain health or treat disease.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateMay 19, 2014

First look at breast microbiota raises tantalizing questions

A recent study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology has identified a distinct population of microbes in the breast tissue, with Proteobacteria being the dominant phylum. The presence of beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria suggests a potential protective effect for both mother and child.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateMar 24, 2014
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.

Studies of gut flora in infants and toddlers could lead to better health

A study of 300 children's gut microbiota found that breastfeeding impacts the composition of gut flora. The research suggests that the gut microbiota is not fully established until after 18 months, indicating a need for supplementation or probiotics to promote healthy gut health.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateMar 20, 2014

A tricky balancing act: Antibiotics versus the gut microbiota

Recent studies suggest that antibiotic use in childhood can lead to changes in growth and metabolic development. Low-dose antibiotics have been shown to alter body fat and tissue composition in laboratory animals, highlighting the potential impact of antibiotics on the gut microbiota.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·DateMar 10, 2014

Inside out at the 2014 AAAS meeting: The impact of gut flora on diabetes and obesity

Recent research highlights the critical role of gut flora in diabetes and obesity, with studies suggesting a strong connection between the two. The CommHERE consortium, comprising nine European institutions, has brought together leading experts to discuss their findings on the impact of gut microbiota on metabolic diseases.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·DateFeb 14, 2014

Geographic variation of human gut microbes tied to obesity

A new study by UC Berkeley researchers found a correlation between northern latitude and higher levels of obesity-linked bacteria in the gut. The analysis of over 1,000 people from around the world revealed that those living in colder regions had more Firmicutes and less Bacteroidetes in their gut microbiomes.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalBiology Letters·DateFeb 14, 2014
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Research shows how household dogs protect against asthma and infection

Researchers found that exposure to dog dust reduces asthma risk in children and protects against respiratory infections by targeting a specific bacterial species. The study suggests that manipulating the gut microbiome with Lactobacillus johnsonii may prevent or treat asthma and allergies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 16, 2013

Human gut microbes alter mouse metabolism, depending on diet

A study found that human gut bacteria can transmit lean or obese traits to mice depending on their diet, highlighting the importance of diet in shaping gut microbiota. The researchers identified specific bacterial species that play a role in metabolism and obesity, paving the way for personalized probiotic therapies.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 5, 2013

Clues about autism may come from the gut

A study published in PLOS ONE suggests that children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have lower diversity of gut bacteria and decreased amounts of three critical bacteria. This finding implies that a diverse gut microbiome is essential for maintaining a robust bacterial community, and may be linked to the development of ASD symptoms.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 3, 2013
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.

Your body's microbiome has a unique 'fingerprint'

A study found that a Mediterranean diet causes a decrease in total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels. Each individual has a unique microbial profile, like a fingerprint, which remains true even after diet manipulation.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateApr 23, 2013

Good bacteria may expunge vancomycin-resistant bacteria from your gut

Researchers found that reintroducing normal microbial diversity can eliminate vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) from the intestinal tracts of mice and potentially humans. The study suggests that certain bacterial species, such as Barnesiella, play a key role in preventing colonization by VRE.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalInfection and Immunity·DateFeb 27, 2013
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 at root of severe malnutrition in kids

A study of young twins in Malawi reveals that dysfunctional gut microbes contribute to severe acute childhood malnutrition. The researchers found that feeding malnourished children a high-calorie, nutrient-rich food temporarily improved their gut microbiomes, but the benefits were short-lived. The findings suggest that repairing gut mi...

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience·DateJan 30, 2013
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.

Dead guts spill history of extinct microbes

Research published in PLOS ONE reveals that extinct human microbes from archeological sites closely resemble those found in present-day rural African communities. The study suggests that the modern cosmopolitan lifestyle resulted in a dramatic change to the human gut microbiome.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 12, 2012

For our guts, not just any microbiome will do

A recent study found that mice carrying a set of friendly microbes fail to develop a proper immune system, highlighting the importance of host-specific microbiota. The researchers suggest that a coevolved relationship between humans and their gut microbiome may be compromised by modern lifestyle factors.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateJun 21, 2012

Announcing the Human Microbiome Project Collection

The Human Microbiome Project Collection provides a comprehensive baseline of the microbial diversity at 18 human body sites, including reference genomes and metagenomic sequences. The studies examine relationships between the microbiome and host health, shedding light on conditions such as Crohn's disease and psoriasis.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 13, 2012

Consortium of scientists maps the human body's bacterial ecosystem

A team of scientists from the Gladstone Institutes has contributed to a groundbreaking study that mapped the human microbiome, revealing over 10,000 microorganisms that live on and inside humans. The researchers used advanced DNA-sequencing techniques to identify individual microbes and their roles in human health.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 13, 2012
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.

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.

Gut bacteria can control organ functions

Research reveals that gut bacteria can exert control over metabolic functions of organs, including the liver, through changes in the microbiota. The study found that colonization with specific bacteria triggered changes in liver metabolic profiles, including glycogen and triglyceride production.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateFeb 28, 2011

Rifaximin provides significant relief of irritable bowel syndrome symptoms

A pair of clinical trials found that two weeks of rifaximin treatment significantly reduced IBS symptoms, including bloating and abdominal pain. The benefits persisted for 10 weeks after treatment was stopped, suggesting a potential underlying cause of IBS: alterations in gut bacteria.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 5, 2011

Discovery may help scientists boost broccoli's cancer-fighting power

A University of Illinois study shows that sulforaphane, a powerful cancer-fighting agent in broccoli, can be released by bacteria in the lower gut and absorbed into the body. This discovery raises the possibility of enhancing the activity of these bacteria to increase broccoli's cancer-preventive power.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalFood & Function·DateOct 22, 2010

NIH ramps up Human Microbiome Project

The National Institutes of Health has awarded $42 million to expand eight demonstration projects investigating the link between changes in the human microbiome and health, as part of the Human Microbiome Project. The expanded studies will also support technology development to improve microbiome identification and characterization.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·DateSep 7, 2010
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.

Bacterial balance that keeps us healthy

Researchers at EMBL discover a reference gene set for the human gut microbiome, cataloging 3.3 million microbial genes and shedding light on their role in maintaining health. This breakthrough enables non-invasive stool samples to be used as a measure of health, potentially leading to new treatments.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature·DateMar 4, 2010
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.

Gut reaction: Researchers define the colon's genome

The study reveals a diverse population of over 60,000 genes in the human colon microbiome, including enzymes that help humans digest food. The findings suggest that bacteria in the colon co-evolved with their human host, contributing to our well-being and potentially leading to diseases like inflammatory bowel disease.

SourceThe Institute for Genomic Research·JournalScience·DateJun 1, 2006