Researchers discovered that cross-kingdom assemblages of bacteria and fungi can form superorganisms that colonize teeth, causing extensive tooth decay. These superorganisms exhibit enhanced surface adhesion, increased mechanical and antimicrobial tolerance, and unique mobility, moving at speeds similar to fibroblasts.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 6, 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.
The first-ever mycobiome atlas describes associations between cancers and fungi, revealing differences in community compositions across cancer types. The study found significant correlations between specific fungi and age, tumor subtypes, smoking status and survival measures.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell·DateSep 29, 2022
The University of Exeter team identified a 'master regulator' that controls the formation of invasive hyphae in the fungus Zymoseptoria tritici. This discovery provides a crucial target for developing new control strategies against Septoria tritici blotch, a destructive fungal disease affecting wheat yields worldwide.
SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 26, 2022
Researchers found that bodies with lower BMI had decreased bacterial diversity, while those with higher BMI maintained constant diversity. The study suggests intrinsic factors like disease and medication load may impact microbial life in the surrounding soil.
SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmSphere·TypeObservational study·DateSep 22, 2022
New research finds that purple needlegrass thrives in areas with sheep grazing, especially during wet weather, creating space for new growth and reducing competition from non-native grasses. The study's findings aim to inform effective management strategies for this long-lived species and its potential role in mitigating climate change.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateSep 22, 2022
Researchers have discovered that Mexican mangrove forests have been absorbing and storing carbon for an impressive 5,000 years. The study found that these unique ecosystems are capable of retaining large amounts of carbon due to the presence of certain microorganisms.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·TypeObservational study·DateSep 16, 2022
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.
A recent study in Peru revealed a 50% decline in arthropod biomass following short periods of drought and increased precipitation. Tropical insects are sensitive to both extreme weather events, with rainfall patterns being a key factor in their decline.
SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateSep 14, 2022
Scientists at University of Utah Health discovered that a fungus that causes fungal meningitis shrinks in size to better infect the brain. The 'seed' cells, which are smaller and have unique features, can colonize other organs and spread infection. Research suggests that phosphate may trigger this transformation.
SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 13, 2022
Researchers found two distinct populations of the invasive American bullfrog in Brazil, one descended from 1935 introductions and another from the 1970s. The study highlights the need for law enforcement to prevent escape from frog farms.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 8, 2022
Scientists have identified 30 distinct compounds responsible for the Appalachian truffle's aroma, including six previously unknown to other truffle species. The findings may lead to future studies on the unique properties of this North American variety.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Omega·DateSep 8, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A new study by Rice University biologist Tom Miller explores the role of fungi in determining the range limits of plants in Texas. The research reveals that fungal partnerships improve drought tolerance and could potentially extend the range of grasses in response to climate change.
Scientists reconstruct evolution of complex multicellular organisms using genomic data and computational models, revealing gradual changes that began early in evolution. The research reveals distinct paths taken by animal and fungal lineages, shedding light on their shared eukaryotic supergroup.
SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalNature·DateAug 24, 2022
A fungus called Ustilago maydis manipulates the corn plant's auxin signaling pathway by binding to a protein called Topless, suppressing certain pathways while promoting growth and division. This precise control enables the fungus to thrive in infected plants.
SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNew Phytologist·DateAug 10, 2022
International researchers, led by UMass Amherst, discovered a mechanism that allows certain fungi to destroy grapevines using small compounds that reduce iron and produce hydrogen peroxide. Antioxidants and chelators can potentially interrupt this process and prevent grapevine damage.
SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateJul 25, 2022
A study reveals that over 1,400 genes in 218 insect species originated from bacteria, viruses, fungi, and plants through horizontal gene transfer. This discovery suggests that these genes contributed to beneficial traits such as mating behavior, nutrition, and adaptation to environmental changes.
SourceCell Press·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2022
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.
A unique fungus infects common houseflies, causing them to become necrophilic and mate with infected female corpses. The longer the corpse remains dead, the more attractive it becomes to male flies, allowing the fungus to spread its spores.
SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateJul 15, 2022
A group of researchers discovered a new species of green algae, Gormaniella terricola, in Central New York State. The alga's unique chloroplast genome was found to contain DNA from fungi and bacteria, highlighting the importance of horizontal transfer.
SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 9, 2022
A team led by UMass Amherst food scientist Matthew Moore has received a $750,000 grant to develop portable biosensors for detecting noroviruses and mycotoxins in foods. The technology aims to provide quick, cheap, and effective detection without lab testing.
SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateJun 3, 2022
Recent papers in ACS Environmental Au explore the impact of aerosol acidity in the southeastern U.S. and the effects of environmental films on native ecosystems. The journal also investigates electrospun nanofibrous membranes for controlling airborne viruses.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Environmental Au·DateJun 2, 2022
A University of Alberta research team has rewritten the biology of lichen, a textbook case of symbiosis. The study found that lichens do not use sugars produced by algae for growth, but instead store them to preserve cellular content when dry.
SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 12, 2022
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.
A recent study found that a single course of antibiotics disrupts the balance of gut bacteria and fungi in infants, leading to increased competition for space. This disruption can result in long-term adverse effects on human health, including antibiotic-associated diarrhea and chronic inflammatory diseases.
SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalJournal of Fungi·DateApr 29, 2022
Research finds fungi and bacteria can thrive in post-megafire soils, with certain microbes increasing in abundance. These microbial 'cousins' are genetically related and share adaptive traits to respond to fire, improving prediction of their responses.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateApr 25, 2022
A team of scientists has identified a protein called SsPINE1 that allows the fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum to overcome plant defenses. This discovery could lead to new avenues for controlling white mold stem rot pathogens and potentially even more effective, targeted breeding to make plants naturally resistant.
SourceUS Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2022
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.
A new study at the University of Bath found that a key ingredient is missing from all sunscreens, leaving skin vulnerable to damage. The researchers identified iron-trapping extracts that can improve protection against UV rays and oxidative stress, reducing the risk of aging and cancer.
SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalAntioxidants·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 12, 2022
A new paper by an Oregon State University-led research team provides a scientific framework to shape the rollout of a program in Oregon allowing the use of psilocybin for therapeutic reasons. The research highlights the importance of Indigenous traditions and safety guidelines for using psilocybin-containing fungi.
SourceOregon State University·JournalFungal Biology·DateApr 11, 2022
A new study reveals that leafcutter ants employ complex strategies to maximize the growth of their fungal
SourceEcological Society of America·JournalEcology·DateApr 1, 2022
A study found that apples and other fruits can host drug-resistant, pathogenic yeasts on surfaces, including Candida auris. The fungicides used to prolong shelf life may select for these resistant strains, increasing the risk of transmission.
SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateMar 31, 2022
A new study from UC Berkeley provides the first detailed description of the fungal biodiversity on Mo'orea, discovering over 200 species of macrofungi. The research team's findings suggest that most species were carried by easterly winds from Australia or other South Pacific islands.
SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalJournal of Biogeography·TypeObservational study·DateMar 31, 2022
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.
Researchers have developed biobased materials derived from fungi that can produce sustainable faux leather, paper products, and cotton substitutes. These materials have properties comparable to traditional materials, with the added benefit of being 100% biobased and taking less time to produce.
The John Innes Centre researchers identified the role of the signaling protein CaM2, which regulates calcium channels and shapes calcium signals. This led to accelerated calcium frequency, earlier signaling with bacteria, and enhanced root nodule symbiosis in engineered legume roots.
SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2022
Scientists develop first system allowing two unrelated organisms to communicate via chemical signals, with potential applications in disease treatment and cell behavior modification. The nano-translator uses silica nanoparticles to react with glucose and phleomycin, enabling bacteria and yeast to exchange messages.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 16, 2022
Researchers used light sheet microscopy to visualize the inner structures of a living fungus, Sordaria macrospora, without damaging it. They achieved high-resolution images and 3D reconstructions using Bessel beams, which provided uniform illumination and minimized optical properties issues.
SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of Biophotonics·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 15, 2022
Researchers identified eight new microorganisms that cleave ether bonds in the lignin-based compound-2-phenoxyacetophenone. These discoveries could enhance our understanding of the carbon cycle and facilitate biotechnological applications for lignin commercialization.
SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 24, 2022
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.
A preclinical study by Weill Cornell Medicine researchers reveals that a specific group of fungi residing in the intestines can protect against intestinal injury and influence social behavior in mice. The findings suggest a novel signaling system connecting fungi in the gut to their host's cells, including immune cells and neurons.
A special issue in Botany journal explores relationships among plants, people, science, and medicine, promoting decolonial approaches to ethnobotanical research. The collection highlights the healing potential of plants and emphasizes Indigenous-led projects on medicinally useful plants.
SourceCanadian Science Publishing·JournalBotany·DateFeb 15, 2022
A new study found that algae in common lichens can't adapt to temperature changes as fast as the Earth is warming, putting them at risk of extinction. The researchers' analysis suggests it could take hundreds of thousands or millions of years for these algae to evolve and adapt to modern climate change.
SourceField Museum·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateFeb 15, 2022
Berkeley Lab researchers are working on a two-year project to develop a roadmap for Puerto Rico to meet its 100% renewable energy mandate. The study aims to analyze pathways, power system reliability, and generation planning. Meanwhile, a new fungal strain has been discovered in a spacecraft assembly facility named after Berkeley Lab m...
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 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.
A comprehensive 'vertical map' of airborne microorganisms has been created, showing that temperature is the single most important factor influencing their composition. As global temperatures rise, this could lead to significant changes in the air microbiome, affecting human health and food security.
SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 7, 2022
A Japanese squirrel's feeding behavior on poisonous Amanita species has been observed, suggesting a potential mutualistic relationship. The study found that the spores of these fungi may survive being eaten and excreted by squirrels, facilitating their dispersal.
SourceKobe University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 2, 2022
Researchers found that compost and compost-enriched soils contain high concentrations of Aspergillus fumigatus spores, which can cause serious lung infections. Handling compost exposes individuals to large numbers of aerosolized spores, highlighting the need for behavioral changes and industry action
SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateJan 13, 2022
A study published in Nature found that a type of MRSA called mecC-MRSA originated in hedgehogs over 200 years ago, long before the clinical use of antibiotics. The researchers believe that the bacteria evolved as an adaptation to living on the skin of hedgehogs with a fungus that produces its own antibiotics.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 5, 2022
Scientists at the University of Utah studied the defense mechanism of Armillaria ostoyae, a parasitic fungus that infects and kills over 600 types of woody plants. They found that the fungus's outer layer has a strong protective role, containing calcium to protect itself from chemicals and insects.
SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of the Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials·TypeObservational study·DateDec 7, 2021
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.
A recent study uses machine learning to rapidly discover bacterial isolates with antifungal properties, identifying promising new compounds for crop protection. The approach analyzes thousands of microbial genomes at once, allowing researchers to identify novel beneficial microbes and bypass traditional screening tactics.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytobiomes Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2021
A freely available protist culture collection supports a deeper understanding of the plant microbiome, with key findings indicating that beneficial microorganisms feed on bacteria and fungi.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytobiomes Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2021
A complex microbial community comprising bacteria, fungi, and oomycetes is beneficial for plant growth. Inactivation of the plant innate immune system shifts this balance, making the fungal load a primary cause of disease. Bacterial partners residing in roots provide an additional layer of protection.
SourceMax Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 2, 2021
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.
Scientists discovered that fungal endophytes convert chitin to chitosan, a natural plant defense activator, to evade host defense. This conversion enables the fungus to live in symbiotic association with grasses, protecting them from biotic and abiotic stresses.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2021
Researchers have discovered that certain strains of Aspergillus can be used to degrade aflatoxins in crops, reducing the risk of food contamination. This biological control method utilizing biocontrol products is currently the most effective way to produce safe and healthy foods and feeds.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2021
A new study explores how plants respond differently to useful and harmful microbes, revealing that accessory chromosomes from fungal strains dictate these responses. Most plant genes are expressed similarly in response to both beneficial and pathogenic fungi, but with key differences occurring just 12 hours after interaction.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2021
Researchers use edible fungus to convert fruit waste into wild strawberry aroma. The fungus produces compounds geraniol and 2-aminobenzaldehyde, contributing to the scent. The team's innovative method could provide a natural flavoring agent for foods.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateNov 17, 2021
Researchers have identified compounds that interfere with fungal enzymes required for fatty acid synthesis, potentially overcoming resistance to current treatments. These compounds show promise as antifungal agents, effective even against drug-resistant strains of fungi.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Infectious Diseases·DateNov 17, 2021
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.
The 74th APS Division of Fluid Dynamics Annual Meeting featured presentations on COVID-proofing daily life, kimchi physics, and extreme heat waves. Researchers also discussed advancements in fire-fighting trees and the science behind jellyfish engineers.
Researchers from the University of Évora discovered seven new species of Terfezia fungi in Portugal, including two previously unknown to science. The study provides valuable insights into their ecological range and potential hosts, enabling the development of truffle cultivation techniques that can positively impact local communities.
A new vaccine has shown significant protection against Valley fever in dogs, offering hope for a potential human vaccine. The study found that two doses provided high levels of protection against the fungal disease.
SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalVaccine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 26, 2021
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.
Hülle cells in Aspergillus fungi produce chemicals that deter predators and aid fruiting structure development. These chemicals are crucial for the fungus' protection against hungry predators.
Researchers at TU Wien propose a new method to interpret and mine fungal genomes to predict essential genes for the production of valuable substances. The FunOrder method identifies co-evolved genes that are functionally necessary, distinguishing them from gap genes.
SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 4, 2021
Researchers have developed a novel process to manufacture extreme heat-resistant carbon-carbon composites, which will be tested on a U.S. Navy rocket launching with NASA this fall. Additionally, they created a technology that more realistically emulates user activities to improve cyber testbeds and prevent cyberattacks.
SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 4, 2021
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.
Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites of fungi that contaminate agricultural products, posing severe health risks. Aptasensors utilize aptamers to specifically detect mycotoxins with high sensitivity and specificity, allowing for fast and reliable detection in field settings.
SourceKazan Federal University·JournalChemosensors·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 8, 2021
A recent study suggests that the gut microbiome plays a significant role in mental health, with disruptions in beneficial microorganisms linked to depressive disorders. The researchers propose a multifaceted approach to manage depression through rebalancing and maintaining the gut microbiome using diet, probiotics, and lifestyle changes.
SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·TypeContent analysis·DateAug 25, 2021
A study found that 95% of fungal species on Earth remain undescribed, leading to inconsistent regulations and potential health risks. The researchers tested 16 food products labeled as containing 'wild mushrooms' and discovered most consisted of cultivated species, including poisonous varieties.
Rice University scientists have isolated a biocatalyst that controls the chirality of compounds, enabling more accurate drug synthesis. The discovery could lead to improved pharmaceutical production by providing a new tool for controlling stereochemistry.
SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 6, 2021