microbial contamination

Surprisingly, the base of your toilet is a germ breeding ground, frequently neglected during cleaning. Bacteria love to lurk at the junction of porcelain and tile, causing contamination to spread. Fear not! A common pantry item, white vinegar, is your ally. Spray it generously around the base, allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes, and then wipe clean.

Scientists have discovered a thriving estuarine ecosystem beneath Antarctica's Ross Ice Shelf, teeming with diverse microorganisms. This sub-ice environment, characterized by flowing waters and nutrient circulation, exists despite complete darkness, challenging previous perceptions of the continent's interior. The findings highlight life's adaptability in extreme conditions and its potential impact on ice dynamics and ocean circulation.

Washing hands only before meals is a misconception; hands accumulate pathogens from everyday surfaces like door handles and phones. High-risk moments for germ transmission occur after using bathrooms, handling waste, or traveling, not just during meals. Proper handwashing with soap for 20 seconds or using alcohol-based sanitizers is crucial for preventing common illnesses.

Your trusty reusable water bottle might be a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. Complex cap designs and warm environments create ideal conditions for invisible biofilms to thrive, potentially impacting your health. Regular, thorough cleaning with warm, soapy water and proper air drying is crucial to ensure your eco-friendly habit remains healthy.

First, Andes strain found on cruise ship is deadly, but most occupants, including two Indians, are under quarantine. Second, Hantavirus strains found in Asia aren’t big killers. Third, India’s disease surveillance is reliable

In response to a heartbreaking event in Mumbai, the food safety team in Chandigarh is taking proactive measures with a large-scale initiative. Officials are visiting ten different spots across the city, collecting watermelon samples to be tested in their mobile lab.

Scientists are now considering fungi, not just bacteria, for space mission contamination. A study revealed Aspergillus calidoustus spores survived Mars-like conditions, including extreme cold, radiation, and low pressure. Survival was only compromised when cold and radiation combined. This finding emphasizes the need to include fungi in planetary protection protocols for future Mars exploration.

Your washing machine, surprisingly, is a breeding ground for odour-causing microbes. Modern cold washes allow bacteria and oils to accumulate, forming resilient biofilms that cling to clothes. These biofilms metabolise residues, releasing unpleasant smells. To combat this 'permastink' and prevent cross-contamination, a monthly hot wash with bleach is recommended, along with leaving the door ajar.

A simple damp kitchen towel can significantly enhance kitchen safety by preventing cutting boards from slipping. This method leverages friction and surface tension, ensuring a stable workspace for efficient and hygienic food preparation. The technique is effective for both wooden and plastic boards, offering a cost-effective and scientifically-backed solution to a common kitchen hazard.

Caring for baby clothes demands attention to fabric gentleness. Parents should prioritize mild detergents and avoid fragrances. Washing baby items separately ensures better cleaning and fabric care. Air drying or low-heat drying is recommended. Regular cleaning of the washing machine is also crucial. These simple habits lead to softer clothes and less skin irritation for infants.

A new DNA analysis of the Shroud of Turin reveals nearly 40% of human DNA originates from India, suggesting the yarn may have come from the Indus Valley or the cloth was handled by people of Indian descent. The study also identified DNA from various animals and plants, painting the shroud as a "time-capsule towel" shaped by a far-flung journey.