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Exponentially increasing understanding of early life on Earth

A UC Riverside paper has opened the door to understanding more about life's beginnings and early evolution. The study weaves together data from ancient rocks, genomic studies of modern organisms, and recent breakthroughs about the evolving chemistry of the early oceans, atmosphere, and continents.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Reviews Microbiology·DateJul 9, 2024
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.

Desert-loving fungi and lichens pose deadly threat to 5,000-year-old rock art

A study published in Frontiers in Fungal Biology reveals that microcolonial fungi and lichens on petroglyphs in the Negev desert can cause gradual erosion and damage. The researchers identified multiple species of these fungi and lichens, which are known to thrive in hot and cold deserts.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Fungal Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 5, 2024

Study shows a high-fat diet may fuel anxiety

A high-fat diet in adolescent rats disrupts resident gut bacteria, alters behavior, and influences brain chemicals to fuel anxiety. The study also found a link between the high-fat diet and altered expression of genes involved in serotonin production.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalBiological Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 17, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Ingestible microbiome sampling pill technology advances

Researchers at Tufts University have developed a small device that can sample the full inventory of microorganisms in an individual's gastrointestinal tract. The technology uses a soft elastic exterior and microvalves to collect samples, offering improved control over localized sampling in the small intestine.

SourceTufts University·JournalDevice·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 12, 2024

New insights on polymicrobial infections in chronic lung diseases

Researchers have identified two distinct types of dysbioses in cystic fibrosis, which differ in their ecological organization and response to treatment. These findings suggest that antimicrobial drugs may be more effective in hierarchically organized microbiota, potentially leading to improved treatment outcomes for patients.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 11, 2024
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.

Specific microbial hallmarks in vagina could indicate gynecological cancers

A recent study discovered a unique vaginal microbiome in patients with gynecological cancers, which could serve as a diagnostic biomarker. The researchers found a decrease in beneficial bacteria and an increase in potentially pathogenic microorganisms, leading to promising results for early detection.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalOpen Life Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 28, 2024

Lung microbiomes predict mortality in children following bone marrow transplant

Researchers discovered that children with the worst outcomes had significantly fewer microbial species overall, but marked populations of Staphylococcus bacteria and viruses. The study used metagenomic next-generation sequencing to analyze lung fluid samples from 229 pediatric patients, revealing links between microbiome composition an...

SourceChan Zuckerberg Biohub·JournalNature Medicine·DateMay 27, 2024

A new study reveals key role of plant-bacteria communication for the assembly of a healthy plant microbiome supporting sustainable plant nutrition

A new study in Nature Communications reveals that symbiotic bacteria play a critical role in modulating the profile of root secreted molecules, influencing the assembly of a symbiotic root microbiome. The findings provide valuable insights into the complex interplay between nitrogen nutrition and plant-bacteria interactions.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 23, 2024

Meeting preview: Hot topics at NUTRITION 2024

At NUTRITION 2024, researchers will explore emerging findings on the role of diet in cancer risk and survivorship, as well as personalized dietary therapy for cancer treatment and survivorship. Scientists will also share insights into precision nutrition, environmental sustainability, and infant feeding practices, shedding light on the...

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateMay 21, 2024

Major genetic meta-analysis reveals how antibiotic resistance in babies varies according to mode of birth, prematurity, and where they live

A recent study found that infants born via C-section have more antibiotic-resistant genes, while antibiotic use and prematurity fuel resistance. Infants from Africa had more resistant genes than those from Europe. Probiotics may help reduce the spread of antibiotic resistance in infants by targeting their gut microbiome.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateApr 24, 2024
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.

Gut bacteria important for overcoming milk allergy

Researchers at RIKEN found that gut bacteria, particularly Bifidobacterium, are associated with higher chances of successful milk-allergy treatment. However, only 7 out of 28 children who underwent oral immunotherapy passed the food challenge after a two-week milk avoidance period.

SourceRIKEN·JournalAllergology International·DateMar 14, 2024

New microbiome insights could help boost immunotherapy for a range of rare cancers

Researchers have identified specific bacterial strains linked to a positive response to combination immunotherapy in rare gynaecological cancers, biliary tract cancers, and melanoma. A microbiome signature can predict individual responses to treatment, paving the way for personalized medicine and next-generation probiotics.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 1, 2024
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.

Bacteria in the mouth linked to pulmonary fibrosis survival

A new study found that one bacterial species, Streptococcus mitis, dominates in IPF patients not treated with antibiotics and is associated with better lung function and survival. This protective relationship does not apply to patients who received antibiotics.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateFeb 7, 2024

PNU researchers reveal cutibacterium acnes as a potential cause of lichen striatus hypopigmentation

A study by Pusan National University researchers found a significant association between Cutibacterium acnes and lichen striatus hypopigmentation, suggesting the potential for targeted therapy to reduce LS duration and hypopigmentation. The research team identified other likely candidates in skin microbiota imbalance.

SourcePusan National University·JournalJournal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 16, 2024

Domesticating plants impacts their microbiome, study finds

New research reveals that domestication impacts the microbial communities associated with crops. The study found consistent effects on the plant microbiota across independently domesticated crop species in Mesoamerica and South America. Changes in seed mineral content were linked to changes in microbiome composition.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 16, 2024
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.

Researchers discover potential microbiome links to skin aging

A study by researchers at University of California - San Diego reveals a connection between the skin microbiome and signs of aging, including crow's feet wrinkles. The analysis found positive associations with diverse skin microbiomes and negative correlations with moisture loss, suggesting potential new directions for skincare solutions.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalFrontiers in Aging·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 11, 2024

UMass Chan researchers identify molecular link between gut bacteria and excitatory brain signaling in C. elegans

Researchers established a molecular link between specific B12-producing gut bacteria and acetylcholine production in C. elegans, a neurotransmitter important to memory and cognitive function. A diet rich in these bacteria reduced seizure-like behavior in mutant worms by restoring excitatory/inhibitory balance.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalNature Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 4, 2024
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.

Reverse metabolomics: new method finds biomarker for inflammatory bowel disease

Scientists at University of California San Diego develop a new approach to microbiome research, identifying hundreds of molecules never seen before in the human body. They found a strong association between these molecules and inflammatory bowel disease, potentially leading to new diagnostic and therapeutic applications.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateDec 5, 2023

Breaking down barriers: What happens when the vaginal microbiome attacks

Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine found that certain bacterial species dismantle protective molecules on vaginal cells, dysregulating cell turnover and response to surrounding bacteria. This study may help explain the association between bacterial vaginosis and adverse sexual and reproductive health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 29, 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.

Yucatán’s underwater caves host diverse microbial communities

Researchers constructed the most complete map yet of the microbial communities in Yucatán's underwater caves, revealing distinct patterns and a core set of organisms performing key roles. The study found that Comamonadaceae, a family of bacteria typically found in groundwater systems, lived in several niches across the cave system.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2023

Study shows engineered gut bacteria can treat hypertension

Researchers at The University of Toledo discovered that engineered Lactobacillus paracasei can lower blood pressure in female rats by introducing human ACE2. The study provides a paradigm shift in harnessing the body's microbiome to regulate blood pressure and offers new hope for treating chronic conditions.

SourceUniversity of Toledo·JournalPharmacological Research·DateOct 24, 2023
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.

Skin and gut microbiome analysis offers new therapeutic perspectives on atopic dermatitis in Shiba Inu dogs

Researchers analyzed gut and skin microbiota in Shiba Inu dogs with atopic dermatitis, finding that treatment with Oclacitinib restored balance to the microbiome. The study suggests that microbes may serve as potential therapeutic targets for canine atopic dermatitis, offering new disease management strategies.

SourceUniversity of Lübeck·JournalMicrobiome·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 23, 2023

Gut inflammation caused by substance secreted by microbe: NUS study

A NUS study found that Blastocystis ST7 produces indole-3-acetyldehyde, which binds to immune cells, reducing gut tolerance and causing inflammation. Probiotic bacteria like lactobacillus may help negate its effects.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalThe EMBO Journal·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 29, 2023
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.

Some hosts have an “evolutionary addiction” to their microbiome

Tobin Hammer argues that some hosts have evolved a dependence on their microbiome, but the microbes do not provide any benefits in return. This phenomenon, known as evolutionary addiction, could have unique implications for understanding host-microbe interactions.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Microbiology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 29, 2023
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.

Menstrual cups can help prevent infection, improve vaginal health

A Kenya-based study found that menstrual cups reduced the risk of bacterial vaginosis and improved vaginal microbiome in teenage girls. The study, funded by the National Institutes of Health, followed 436 Kenyan secondary school girls and tested for infections every six months.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 25, 2023

Could probiotics help slow age-related cognitive decline?

Researchers found that taking probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG improved cognitive scores in participants with mild cognitive impairment, suggesting a potential strategy to support cognitive health. Gut microbiome composition could serve as an early indicator for mild cognitive impairment.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJul 24, 2023

Scientists name top five foods rich in prebiotics

A new study estimates that dandelion greens, Jerusalem artichokes, garlic, leeks, and onions are the top five foods rich in prebiotics. These foods support gut microbes and contain high amounts of fiber, which can benefit health.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJul 22, 2023
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.

Engineering plants for a changing climate

The PLOS Biology special issue explores plant engineering to combat climate change, from ancient breeding techniques to genome engineering. The collection highlights strategies for enhancing climate-resilience in crops, including microbiome manipulation and synthetic biology.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJul 20, 2023

NUTRITION 2023 press materials available now

Researchers identify genes that directly influence what we eat and find foods that can boost brain health and protect the planet. New insights into genetic basis for food preferences could help improve personalized nutrition.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJul 17, 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.

Gum disease linked to buildup of Alzheimer’s plaque formation

A study by Forsyth Institute researchers reveals a link between periodontal disease and amyloid plaque formation in the brain. Oral bacteria can travel to the brain, causing neuroinflammation and promoting cognitive decline in Alzheimer's patients.

SourceForsyth Institute·JournalJournal of Neuroinflammation·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 10, 2023

Deciphering the association between uterine microbiota and fertility in dairy cows

Researchers analyzed dairy cows' uterine microbiota and found significant associations with fertility, including a correlation between microbial diversity and AI frequency. The study suggests that farm-to-farm variations in microbiota can impact fertility, paving the way for new diagnostic approaches to low fertility in dairy farms.

SourceOkayama University·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 7, 2023
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.

Vaccine against deadly chytrid fungus primes frog microbiome for future exposure

A new study found that a vaccine against the deadly chytrid fungus in frogs can shift the composition of the microbiome, making frogs more resilient to future exposure. The researchers applied a non-lethal dosage of a metabolic product created by the chytrid fungus to tadpoles and observed a protective shift in the microbiome.

SourcePenn State·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2023

How studying poop may help us boost white rhino populations

A recent study found significant differences in the gut microbiome of female southern white rhinos that reproduced successfully versus those that did not. The researchers identified a particular genus of microbes that may be limiting reproductive success in captive breeding programs.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAnimal Microbiome·TypeObservational study·DateJun 5, 2023

Fecal microbiota transplants: Two reviews explore what's worked, what hasn’t, and where do we go from here.

Two review articles explore the effectiveness of fecal microbiota transplants (FMTs) in treating recurrent infections with C. difficile and chronic noncommunicable diseases like ulcerative colitis and metabolic syndrome. While FMTs have shown promise, researchers agree that more research is needed to understand factors such as patient ...

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 10, 2023

CABBI researchers chart oilcane microbiome

A new study by CABBI researchers has identified the types of microbes associated with engineered oilcane, revealing diverse microbial associations that could increase oil yields for sustainable bioenergy production. The findings suggest that plant-microbial interactions play a key role in determining the composition of the microbiome.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalBiotechnology for Biofuels and Bioproducts·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 10, 2023
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.

Good news for patients waiting for stoma reversal surgery

A recent study led by Dr Rachael Rigby from Lancaster University found that delays in stoma reversal surgery do not impact on risk of complications or commensal microflora loss, atrophy, or scarring. However, a higher degree of microflora loss is associated with an increased risk of complications.

SourceLancaster University·JournalGut Microbes·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 20, 2023

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

Experts examine the safety of probiotics

A comprehensive review by experts confirms probiotics are generally safe for healthy individuals, but require careful evaluation for vulnerable populations. The review provides guidance on assessing probiotic safety, including genetic makeup analysis to identify potential risks.

SourceInternational Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics·JournalGut Microbes·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 13, 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
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

CABBI/GLBRC team explores leaf microbiome in perennial bioenergy crops

A study published in Nature Communications reveals that microbes living on the leaves of perennial crops like miscanthus and switchgrass play a crucial role in plant resilience. The research identifies specific microbial functions that could be targeted for future management, promoting crop growth and reducing environmental impact.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 21, 2023

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
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.