Tag

Microbial Growth

All articles tagged with #microbial growth

science1 year ago

Vitamin B12 Nutrients Alter Soil Microbiomes and Microbial Growth

Recent research published in The ISME Journal highlights the significant role of corrinoids, a family of vitamin B12 nutrients, in influencing microbial growth and soil microbiomes. The studies revealed that while many soil bacteria can produce corrinoids, only a few release them, impacting microbiome assembly and activity. Additionally, the presence of corrinoids in soil, often exceeding levels needed for microbial growth, can transiently alter microbiome structures. These findings suggest potential strategies for manipulating soil microbiomes to enhance soil health and ecosystem functions.

science-and-technology2 years ago

"Breakthrough Discovery: Scientists Tackle ISS Fungus Issue"

Scientists from the University of Colorado, MIT, and NASA Ames Research Center have discovered a potential solution to the International Space Station's biofilm problem. By covering surfaces with a thin layer of nucleic acids, they were able to prevent bacterial growth and reduce microbial formation by 74% in terrestrial samples and 86% in space station samples. The nucleic acids carried a slight negative electric charge that prevented microbes from sticking to surfaces. However, longer-duration tests are recommended to determine the long-term effectiveness of this method.

science-and-technology2 years ago

"Breakthrough Discovery: Scientists Tackle ISS Fungus Issue"

Scientists from the University of Colorado, MIT, and NASA Ames Research Center have developed a method to prevent microbial growth and biofilm buildup on surfaces in the International Space Station (ISS). By covering surfaces with a thin layer of nucleic acids, the researchers found that bacterial growth was significantly reduced. The nucleic acids carried a negative electric charge that prevented microbes from sticking to surfaces. The study showed a reduction of about 74% in terrestrial samples and 86% in space station samples. However, longer-duration tests are recommended for future missions to assess the long-term effectiveness of this method.

space2 years ago

Innovative Solutions for Clean Underwear in Space

The European Space Agency's PExTex project is addressing the issue of cleanliness within spacesuits for future lunar missions. Collaborating with the Austrian Space Forum, they have launched the BACTeRMA project to prevent microbial growth within the inner linings of the suits. The project explores suitable textiles and uses bacterial metabolites to avoid microbial growth. These advancements have implications not only for lunar exploration but also for revolutionizing the textile industry on Earth.

space-exploration2 years ago

Lunar Laundry: Maintaining Fresh Underwear in Space

The Austrian Space Forum is leading a project called BACTeRMA, which aims to prevent microbial growth in the inner linings of spacesuits for future lunar missions. The project involves testing novel textiles, such as high-strength Twaron material, that can withstand the harsh conditions of the lunar surface. The team has developed biocidal textile processing techniques using bacterial metabolites to avoid microbial growth. These materials have been exposed to radiation, moondust, and simulated human perspiration to test their durability. The findings of the project lay the foundation for future developments in antimicrobial treatments and the integration of smart textile technologies in spacesuits.