Tag: Microbiology
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Rare Spacecraft Bacterium Evades Detection by Playing Dead
Rare Microorganism Found in NASA Clean Rooms Gets a Second Life A rare microorganism, Tersicoccus phoenicis (T. phoenicis), is prompting a rethink of how researchers monitor cleanliness in facilities that prepare spacecraft for launch. Discovered in NASA spacecraft assembly clean rooms, this unusual bacterium may survive by entering a dormant, nearly unseen state, effectively “playing…
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Don’t Share These Bathroom Items: Towels, Razors, Toothbrushes
Why sharing bathroom items matters When you’re away from home and you forget a towel, razor, or toothbrush, the urge to borrow can be strong. But experts warn that sharing these personal items isn’t just inconvenient—it can raise your risk of infections. Microbes can linger on fabric, plastic, and metal, and the warm, moist conditions…
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Gut Bacteria Survive Space Travel: Implications for Astronaut Health
Introduction: The surprising resilience of our gut allies Scientists have long known that spaceflight poses a host of challenges to the human body. From bone density loss to immune system changes, the journey beyond Earth is a test of physiological limits. Recently, a surprising discovery has added a new dimension to this conversation: the bacteria…
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Bacillus subtilis Survives Space Launch: Microbial Resilience
Introduction: A Milestone in Space Microbiology A world-first Australian-led study has demonstrated that Bacillus subtilis spores, a bacterium important for human health, can survive the extreme conditions of a space launch. The finding offers crucial insights for long-duration missions and future Mars settlements, where maintaining a healthy microbiome is essential for crew performance and wellbeing.…
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Bacteria Survive Space Launch and Re-Entry: Implications for Mars
New evidence from an Australian-led study shows Bacillus subtilis spores can endure the harsh dynamics of spaceflight As space agencies outline bold plans to send crews to Mars within decades, scientists are racing to understand how living organisms cope with the extreme conditions of space travel. A recent Australian-led study provides a critical clue: the…
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Bacteria Survive Space Launch and Re-entry: Study Reveals Bacillus subtilis Resilience
Overview: A Bold Look at Microbial Resilience in Space Scientists have long assumed that spaceflight would present extreme challenges to living organisms, especially microbes that play vital roles in human health. A new Australian-led study reveals that spores of Bacillus subtilis, a bacterium integral to immune function, gut health, and blood circulation in humans, can…
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Bacteria Survive Space Launch and Re-entry: Implications for Mars Missions
Groundbreaking Real-World Test Shows Bacteria Endure Spaceflight Stresses A new Australian-led study has demonstrated that the spores of Bacillus subtilis, a bacterium closely linked to human health, can endure the extreme conditions of a rocket launch and re-entry. The research tested rapid acceleration, short bursts of microgravity, and rapid deceleration, revealing that these hardy spores…
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Ice-Gliding Diatoms: Arctic Motility at Record Low Temps
Across the Arctic ice, diatoms persevere in a world of brine channels and shimmering ice. Our study provides direct cellular observations of ice-dwelling diatoms within frozen matrices, revealing an unexpected capability: ice gliding. Unlike temperate diatoms, these Arctic relatives appear to navigate by gliding along icy substrates, a skill that opens access to light, nutrients,…
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Unlocking Hidden Soil Microbes for New Antibiotics
The Challenge of Antibiotic Resistance The rise of antibiotic resistance has become one of the most pressing health challenges of our time. As bacteria evolve and develop resilience against existing drugs, the medical community grapples with the dire need for new antibiotics. This backdrop highlights the urgency to explore unconventional avenues for antibiotic discovery, most…
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Mozart, Mice, and Microbes: An Intriguing Connection
Unraveling the Mystery of Mozart’s Demise Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, one of the most celebrated composers in history, passed away at the young age of 35. His untimely death has sparked countless theories and speculations over the years. From poisoning to streptococcal infections, many have attempted to pinpoint the exact cause of this remarkable talent’s demise.…