All articles by Linda Stewart – Page 12
-
NewsHidden viral networks in soil microplastics may shape the future of sustainable agriculture
A new scientific review highlights the complex interactions between soil microbes and viruses that occur on the surface of microplastic particles. The study reveals that these microscopic relationships may influence soil health, ecosystem recovery, and the long term sustainability of agriculture.
-
NewsDiversification of termite diets was made possible by genome modifications
Study reveals that evolutionary divergence occurred before ecological divergence, enabling these insects to feed on both wood and soil. Future discoveries may be applied to the production of biofuels.
-
News How viruses mess with our brains
What impact does a viral infection have on our memory, attention, and concentration? A new review has identified several biological markers associated with cognitive decline in the context of infection. It also provides a solid foundation for future research.
-
NewsOne Health antimicrobial resistance modelling: from science to policy
Researchers have identified fundamental gaps in current mathematical modelling approaches that prevent translation of science into policy, including data limitations, knowledge gaps about AMU-AMR relationships, and the absence of international coordination mechanisms similar to climate change efforts.
-
NewsNew compound stops common complications after intestinal surgery
Researchers have synthesized and tested a new compound in mice that shows promise in protecting the liver from damage and improving nutrient absorption after small bowel resection. They also found that the drug works only on the gastrointestinal tract.
-
NewsScientists engineer ‘living eye drop’ to support corneal healing
A proof-of-concept study demonstrates that the harmless eye-dwelling microbe Corynebacterium mastitidis can be genetically modified to secrete an anti-inflammatory therapeutic that promotes healing following corneal injury in a mouse model.
-
NewsNew study reveals how hygienic honey bees show unique advantages in fighting infectious pathogens in adult bees
For the first time, research shows that a key social trait in honey bees is linked to measurable physiological advantages that can improve colony survival. The study uncovers how hygienic honey bee colonies mount stronger individual immune defenses against Nosema ceranae.
-
NewsHow microbes protect the lungs against allergies
A study has revealed that microbes protect the lungs from subsequently developing allergies and asthma. This long-term protection is “memorized” not by immune system cells but by fibroblasts, structural cells in the lungs.
-
News Natural dye produced by Amazonian fungus can be used in cosmetics
A red extract made from Talaromyces amestolkiae was tested in the bases of potential products, including face cream, shampoo, and gel sticks, for its antioxidant and antibacterial properties.
-
NewsPig farm ammonia pollution may indirectly accelerate climate warming, new study finds
A new study shows that ammonia released from intensive livestock farms can significantly increase nearby soil emissions of nitrous oxide, a powerful greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change and ozone depletion.
-
NewsStudy reveals how gut bacteria and diet can reprogram fat to burn more energy
A new study shows that a low‑protein diet activates a precise set of gut microbes that send chemical signals throughout the body, prompting fat tissue to burn energy instead of storing it. The findings uncover a previously unknown biological pathway linking diet, the gut microbiome and metabolic health.
-
NewsScientists identify more effective way to detect poultry viruses in live markets
Scientists have found that viruses circulating in live poultry markets can be detected more effectively by sampling the surrounding environment than by testing individual birds. The study shows that environmental sampling can uncover a broader range of poultry viruses.
-
NewsNitrous oxide, a product of fertilizer use, may harm some soil bacteria
While some nitrous oxide is produced naturally at the plant root, agricultural practices can increase its levels. While it has long been believed that nitrous oxide doesn’t meaningfully interact with living organisms, a new paper shows that it may in fact shape microbial communities.
-
NewsStudy warns of underrecognized Lassa Fever threat with global implications
A new study shows an urgent need for improved detection and treatment of Lassa fever. The study in Liberia found a high prevalence of Lassa fever among febrile admissions: 11% of patients with fever had Lassa fever despite not being suspected clinically.
-
NewsModified biochar helps compost retain nitrogen and build richer soil organic matter
A new study reports that specially engineered biochar can significantly improve compost quality by reducing nitrogen loss and accelerating the formation of stable humic substances. The findings offer a promising strategy for transforming organic waste into more effective fertilizers while lowering environmental emissions. Composting plays a critical ...
-
NewsFrom gut to lung: A microbial signal that strengthens early immune defense
Researchers report that a gut microbiota–derived metabolite can directly shape immune responses in bacterial pneumonia. Using a Klebsiella pneumoniae infection model, the team demonstrated that butyric acid restores the function of CX3CR1-positive natural killer cells.
-
NewsHow periodontitis-linked bacteria accelerate osteoporosis-like bone loss through the gut
Researchers reveal that salivary bacteria from gum disease alter gut metabolism, driving osteoclast activity and systemic bone loss. They analyzed salivary microbiota from individuals with advanced periodontitis and compared them with samples from periodontally healthy donors.
-
NewsGut microbiome connected with heart disease precursor
Before the onset of cardiovascular disease symptoms, people often develop dyslipidemia, or abnormal levels of lipids in the blood. Microbiologists have identified microbial taxa more likely to be found in people with dyslipidemia than in people with healthy levels of cholesterol and triglycerides.
-
NewsAntibacterial coatings with short-term effect may fail over longer periods of time
Researchers have shown that antibacterial coatings which initially appear highly effective at destroying bacteria may lose their performance over time. Therefore, long-term testing is essential for developing the best antibacterial materials.
-
NewsTargeting the gut–lung microbiome to reduce infections in severe pancreatitis
Researchers report new clinical evidence that a fungal probiotic may reduce hospital-acquired infections in patients with severe acute pancreatitis. Patients receiving Saccharomyces boulardii alongside standard enteral nutrition experienced significantly fewer infections than those receiving nutrition alone.