Scientists have developed a groundbreaking device called BLAST, a skin patch that uses harmless electrical currents to fight off harmful bacteria. This innovative technology could revolutionize infection prevention by targeting bacteria and reducing the need for antibiotics, a crucial step in combating antibiotic resistance.
Ever wondered why your dog’s paws smell like Fritos? It’s not just your imagination! Discover the science behind this peculiar phenomenon, how it’s caused by changes in skin bacteria, and what you can do about it.
Rising temperatures and increased rainfall are creating ideal conditions for harmful bacteria and algae blooms across the United States, causing beach closures, jeopardizing tourism, and posing serious health risks. The situation highlights the urgent need for solutions to combat this growing threat amplified by climate change.
A TikTok video exposing the bacteria lurking in knife block slots has gone viral, leaving viewers disgusted and questioning their hygiene habits. The experiment highlights the importance of regularly cleaning knife blocks to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella.
A new study reveals that microwaves, even in homes and offices, harbor a surprising diversity of bacteria. While some bacteria are similar to those found on kitchen surfaces, others are adapted to extreme environments, potentially posing health risks. This study emphasizes the importance of regularly cleaning microwaves to ensure food safety.
A new study reveals how Wolbachia bacteria manipulate parasitic wasps to produce only female offspring. These bacteria have borrowed sex-determining genes from other insects and use them to create proteins that turn male eggs into females, ensuring their own transmission.
Sleep experts advise changing into clean clothes before getting into bed to prevent the spread of bacteria from your outdoor clothes to your sleeping environment. This is particularly important for items like jeans, which are often worn multiple times before washing. Studies have shown that bacteria like E. Coli and Staphylococcus aureus can survive on mattresses and pillowcases, potentially leading to illnesses.
A recent study revealed that millions of Brits only wash their bathroom towels once a year, highlighting a serious hygiene concern. Experts recommend washing towels after three uses, as they can harbor millions of bacteria after just one day. The study also found that men are more likely than women to only wash towels annually.
A recent study has raised concerns about the potential health risks associated with regular use of Listerine mouthwash. Researchers found that daily use of Listerine could lead to an increase in bacteria linked to cancer and infections. The study suggests that alcohol-based mouthwashes may disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the mouth, potentially contributing to health issues. Experts recommend using alcohol-free alternatives and limiting the use of alcohol-based mouthwashes.
A thriving microbial community has been discovered buried deep beneath the Atacama Desert in Chile, providing insights into the potential for life in extreme environments, including Mars. The biosphere, dominated by Actinobacteria, is located between 6.6 and at least 13 feet deep, and is isolated from the surface. Study findings suggest the bacteria may survive by extracting water from gypsum and could have been buried thousands of years ago. The discovery has implications for understanding microbial life in hyperarid deserts and the search for life beyond Earth.
