Economic Equality
Across the globe there are huge disparities in access to basic services such as healthcare, education, and economic resources, with the UN estimating over 98 million people live on less than $1.90 a day. It is vital for microbial research to identify those areas which actively maintain cycles of poverty and disparity. In recognising the interconnected nature of human financial systems and environmental health, microbial research can be a leader in working toward Economic Equality.
News
Blood test using artificial intelligence paves the way for early diagnosis of leprosy
A new blood test combined with a standardized questionnaire and artificial intelligence may transform the way leprosy is diagnosed in Brazil. The method showed potential for identifying the disease in its initial stages, when symptoms are subtle and traditional laboratory tests often fail.
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NewsInuit recommendations to address high rates of tuberculosis in Nunavik, Quebec
Tuberculosis rates for Inuit living in Nunavik, the Inuit lands in northern Quebec, are 1,000 times greater than among non-foreign-born Quebeckers, and underresourcing of local health care adds to hardship from the disease, found new research.
NewsScientists reveal the potential of a tiny soil bacterium to beat the Haber-Bosch process
A new review finds that biological ammonia production offers strong potential as a cleaner, greener alternative to the costly Haber-Bosch process. Microbes such as Azotobacter can produce ammonia under ambient conditions and atmospheric pressure.
NewsInequalities in childhood pneumococcal vaccine uptake persist in England despite schedule change
Vaccine uptake data has been examined to assess the impact of moving from a ‘2+1’ to a ‘1+1’ Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) dose schedule on vaccine coverage and health inequalities among infants in England.
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Engineered enzyme breakthrough offers sustainable solution for polyurethane plastic recycling
A research team has elucidated, for the first time, the catalytic mechanism by which the esterase Aes72 hydrolyzes urethane bonds in polyurethane (PU), and by engineering the enzyme to further enhance its catalytic efficiency.
A study links armed conflict in Colombia with higher tuberculosis cases and mortality
Areas with the highest intensity of conflict between 2008 and 2019 recorded a higher disease burden, highlighting the need for control strategies tailored to each territory.
World-first discovery of noma-linked bacteria opens path to early diagnosis and prevention
Researchers have identified a bacterium strongly associated with noma disease, marking a major step towards earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment. They uncovered a previously undescribed species of Treponema bacteria, which may be responsible for the disease.
Simple antiseptic can reduce newborn infections
A new Cochrane review finds that chlorhexidine likely cuts umbilical cord infection rates by about 29% in low- and middle-income countries, and may reduce newborn deaths.
Hundreds of scientists gather in Edinburgh for the Minoritised Life Scientists Future Forum 2026
Hundreds of scientists gathered at Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) this week for a three-day conference aimed at showcasing the contributions of life scientists from marginalised and underrepresented communities.
Scientists combine algae and oyster shells for biodiesel born in the bayou
Researchers have developed an inexpensive way to make biodiesel from materials found along the banks of their Louisiana bayou: algae and oyster shells.
Brewing protein from greenhouse gases: A greener, more profitable alternative to farming
Engineers prove that feeding methane to bacteria outperforms traditional soy and fish meal in both ecological savings and financial returns.
Digital early warning systems essential as old diseases like cholera resurge in global crisis zones
A new critical analysis examines how the convergence of climate change, economic collapse, and conflict is bringing back a preventable disease once thought to be under control.
Multi-strain probiotic therapy shows promise in preventing bacterial vaginosis recurrence
A global team of experts has identified a promising new approach to prevent recurrence of bacterial vaginosis (BV). In a phase 1 randomized clinical trial, researchers found that a short course of a multi-strain probiotic restored protective bacteria to the vagina, significantly reducing disease recurrence.
Scientists reveal valuable secrets of Pacific coral reefs
An international consortium of scientists has uncovered new insights into coral ecosystems, revealing that different coral species host their own distinct communities of microbes. They show that coral reefs harbour diverse microbes and produce chemicals with promising potential.
New gel-based system allows bacteria to act as bioelectrical sensors
Researchers have developed a safe bioelectronic sensor that allows for effective electronic communication even in liquid environments. The system uses the naturally occurring polymer chitosan, acting as a kind of shell to keep the bacteria from escaping.
Everyday foods could hide fungal risks for mothers and children
A collaborative, multi-institutional project will examine how exposure to zearalenone – a mycoestrogen produced by mold with estrogen-like activity – may affect pregnancy outcomes and children’s growth.
Low-cost preventive measures could mitigate spread of bacteria causing neonatal mortality
A new study found that a multifaceted infection prevention and control intervention could at least temporarily thwart outbreaks of infections from the Klebsiella pneumoniae bacterium.
Mpox immune test validated during Rwandan outbreak
An antibody test for the infectious disease Mpox was successfully developed during the new clade 1b outbreak in Rwanda, the first time that an assay of its kind has been validated within this setting.
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.
How 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.
Algal blooms: New AI algorithm enables scientific monitoring of ‘blue tears’
‘Blue tears’ chasing has become a popular tourism activity along coasts to witness the spectacular natural phenomenon. However, the occurrence and movement of algal blooms are unpredictable - but scientists have developed an innovative real-time video monitoring algorithm named BT-YOLO.
World’s first rum brewed with high ginjo-aroma–producing fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces japonicusponicus
Researchers at Kumamoto University have announced the world’s first rum produced using the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces japonicus, marking a breakthrough in fermentation science and craft spirits innovation. The new product, “JAPONICUS RHUM AGRICOLE,” goes on sale February 27, 2026.
People’s gut bacteria worse in areas with higher social deprivation
Living in a poorer neighbourhood in the UK could impact the make-up of your gut microbiome, potentially leading to worse health. New research found that people living in areas of higher social deprivation have a less diverse range of bacteria in their gut.