Fifteen hundred years ago everybody knew the Earth was the center of the universe. Five hundred years ago, everybody knew the Earth was flat, and fifteen minutes ago, you knew that humans were alone on this planet. Imagine what you'll know tomorrow. - Men in Black In the film, Tommy Lee Jones' Kay wants to make Will Smith's Jay consider what else he might be wrong about (beyond the existence of aliens). In doing so, Kay reinforces two related ideas: knowledge only ever accumulates, and by extension those who came … [Read more...] about Science Corner: You’ll Kill More S. aureus with Honey AND Vinegar
antibiotic resistance
Science Corner: The Luck of the Streptomyces
Having just observed St. Patrick's Day, I thought it fitting to discuss some science news from Ireland. Apparently, so did NBC since they chose Sunday to report on research published last October. A team led by Gerry Quinn isolated a new strain of Streptomyces bacteria that can inhibit the growth of 4 out of 6 high priority antibiotic-resistant pathogens. Resistance to existing antibiotics continues to spread, while the pipeline of new antibiotics has hit a lull. So there is great interest in any compounds that can be … [Read more...] about Science Corner: The Luck of the Streptomyces
Science Corner: It’s a Micro, Micro, Micro, Micro World
I've seen quite a few interesting microbiology stories in the news recently and I couldn't pick just one, so we'll take a little survey of what's happening. Most relevant to your immediate future was the recent FDA ban on certain anti-microbials in soaps and other hygiene products. Don't worry, the bacteria aren't celebrating; washing with regular soap and water will get rid of just as many of them, and products like alcohol-based hand sanitizers will remain available because they have demonstrated utility. The FDA is … [Read more...] about Science Corner: It’s a Micro, Micro, Micro, Micro World