Healthy adults who eat a diverse diet with at least 8-10 grams of soluble fiber a day have fewer antibiotic-resistant microbes in their guts, according to a study published by Agricultural Research Service scientists and their colleagues in mBio.

Of the many contemporary conveniences often taken for granted in developed countries, modern sanitation may be among the most important. A new study suggests that wastewater infrastructure may provide societal benefits far beyond the dramatic improvements in community hygiene. The research highlights a technique known as Wastewater-based Epidemiology.

Research has revealed an association between the feeding of raw meat to pet dogs and the presence of bacteria resistant to critically important antibiotics.

How can stress in animals be measured? Scientists from Uppsala University and elsewhere have now found that what are known as epigenetic biomarkers could be used to detect long-term exposure to stress in commercially raised chickens.

Despite this significant role, research into the diversity of microorganisms found in the ocean has thus far been only rudimentary. This also includes the chemical compounds they produce. Could such compounds benefit humans as well?

In a first-of-its-kind study, research from the University of Vermont Cancer Center has linked phthalates, commonly called the “everywhere chemical,” to higher incidence of specific childhood cancers.

The sharpest images ever of living bacteria have been recorded by UCL researchers, revealing the complex architecture of the protective layer that surrounds many bacteria and makes them harder to be killed by antibiotics. The study reveals that bacteria with protective outer layers — called Gram-negative bacteria — may have stronger and weaker spots on their surface.

Labs are always looking for possibilities to increase their productivity and accuracy of their processes. This applies in particular to minimum inhibitory concentrations testing applied in the development of antibiotics. Automated pipetting solutions can help minimize serial dilution errors and increase confidence in the results.

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are occurring more widespread then ever before. They can turn a simple infection into a life-threatening situation. Naturally occurring viruses could offer help in the fight against these dangerous types of bacteria.

Swedish researchers succeeded in binding water-insoluble antibacterial molecules to the graphene, and having the molecules release in a controlled, continuous manner from the material. Their method offers a way to prevent infections relating to medical implants.