News in Forensic Microbiology
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NewsNew study finds distinct city-specific gut microbiota linked to diet
A new study shows that the human gut microbiota can pinpoint whether an adult lives in Wuhan or Shiyan, two cities 500 km apart in China’s Hubei Province, with 94 % accuracy. This microbial signature is strongly linked to each city’s characteristic diet.
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NewsDNA floating in the air tracks wildlife, viruses — even drugs
A new study reveals the power of DNA, vacuumed up from the air, which can track everything from elusive bobcats to illicit drugs. A simple air filter running for hours, days or weeks can pick up signs of nearly every species that grows or wanders nearby.
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NewsAfter sexual intercourse, both partners leave traces of their own unique genital microbiome
Researchers have shown that bacterial species are transferred between both individuals during sexual intercourse, and these species can be traced to a sexual partner’s unique genital microbiome, with potential for identifying perpetrators of sexual assault.
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NewsNew GPS system for microorganisms could revolutionise police forensics work
A research team led by Lund University in Sweden has developed an AI tool that traces back the most recent places you have been to. The tool acts like a satellite navigation system, but instead of guiding you to your hotel, it identifies the geographical source of microorganisms. ...
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NewsGroundbreaking study on decomposing microbes could help transform forensic science
Researchers have identified what appears to be a network of approximately 20 microbes that universally drive the decomposition of animal flesh, potentially offering a more precise way to determine a body’s time of death.