Rutgers helping Finns explore arctic microbes
Researchers aim to develop new enzymes and biodegrade toxic contaminants using cold-loving microbes. They plan to build a regional biotech industry and preserve fragile environments.
Microorganisms
Articles tagged with Microorganisms
Scientists awarded patent for coal-purifying bacteria
Brookhaven National Laboratory scientists have developed strains of bacteria that can live in harsh environments and convert ordinary coal to a cleaner resource. These microbes remove sulfur and heavy-metal contaminants from coal, producing fewer environmentally undesirable by-products when burned or converted into fuel.
Clean water for Nepal is focus of MIT research
A team of MIT researchers led by Susan Murcott aims to provide clean drinking water for people in developing countries. They have developed a system that can remove particles and microorganisms from water, which is crucial for preventing waterborne diseases in rural areas like Nepal.
Water, sediments in ice-bound antarctic lakes may harbor unique microorganisms, ecosystems
Researchers suggest that subglacial lakes in Antarctica may support unique microbial life forms. The lakes' extreme conditions could provide insights into the origins of life on Earth. Scientists are now planning international cooperation to explore these hidden ecosystems.
Purdue leads center using pollution-busting plants, microbes
The Purdue-based center will focus on bioremediation and phytoremediation to clean up pollution. It will work with state governments, local communities, and industry to revitalize polluted sites using cost-effective natural remediation technologies.
Stanford scientists to probe inner workings of remarkable microbe
A Stanford research team aims to understand how C. crescentus's genes communicate with one another, exploring its potential as a bioremediation agent. The goal is to create a comprehensive 'owner's manual' for the bacterium, which can help DOE meet its challenges in toxic waste cleanup and energy production.
Early critters in microbial mats: Evolution or just a strange environment?
Researchers propose that early animal life evolved to thrive in unique Cambrian environments with microbial mats. This new perspective suggests alternative evolutionary explanations for the development of strange morphologies, such as those seen in helicoplacoids, the earliest known echinoderms.
Anthrax dectectors are coming
A researcher has developed a new detector that can identify airborne anthrax and other biological particles in under 30 minutes. The device uses lasers and acoustic sensors to detect the presence of microorganisms, offering significant improvements over existing methods.
New food packaging technique improves quality, extends shelf life
A new food packaging technique using argon gas has been shown to extend the shelf life of foods by 25% and improve their overall quality, with some products seeing a 40-50% improvement. Argon replaces nitrogen, which causes food to oxidize and spoil, making it a safe and effective way to preserve food.
Scientist searches Yellowstone Park for carbon dioxide-eating microbe
A team of researchers, led by Keith Cooksey from Montana State University, is on a mission to find microorganisms that can naturally lower carbon dioxide emissions from coal-fired power plants. They plan to use the heat-loving microbes found in Yellowstone National Park's hot springs to scrub CO2 from industrial exhaust.
A little help from below: naturally occurring microbes ready to lend a hand trapping radioactivity underground
Researchers at Idaho National Laboratory have discovered that microorganisms can break down urea and promote the formation of calcite, trapping radioactive strontium-90. This process could be used to contain contaminant until it decays away, potentially providing a cheaper and safer alternative to surface extraction.
Microbes in basalt thrive on mixed diet of toxic waste
Scientists discovered that microorganisms in basalt rock can reduce toxic hexavalent chromium to less toxic forms, especially in the presence of volatile organic compounds. The researchers found that certain bacteria, such as Arthrobacter oxydans, play a key role in this process.
KSU microbiologist uses microwave, acid treatments to kill pathogens, maintain color in meat
A Kansas State University food microbiologist has developed a method to kill E. coli bacteria on meat using microwave and acid treatments. The approach involves dipping the meat in an 80 degrees Celsius solution of lactic acid for a few seconds, followed by short pulses of microwave treatment.
Chemical Reaction Believed To Support Underground Microbes Is Now Unlikely
A critical chemical reaction previously thought to support microbial life deep below Earth's surface is now considered highly unlikely. Microorganisms are likely living on organic matter associated with rock, not hydrogen, according to researchers.
Too Hot To Handle
Researchers at Savannah River Technology Center found metal-munching bacteria thriving in sterile storage pond environments, threatening long-term nuclear fuel rod integrity. This ill-timed discovery comes as a global downturn in nuclear reprocessing leads to extended storage periods.