Relaxation-weighted MRI analysis of biofilm EPS: Differentiating biopolymers, cells, and water.

Biofilms are a highly complex community of microorganisms embedded in a protective extracellular polymeric substance (EPS). Successful biofilm control requires a variety of approaches to better understand the structure-function relationship of the EPS matrix. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a versatile tool which can measure spatial structure, diffusion, and flow velocities in three dimensions and in situ.

Structure and selectivity of a glutamate-specific TAXI TRAP binding protein from Vibrio cholerae.

Tripartite ATP-independent periplasmic (TRAP) transporters are widespread in prokaryotes and are responsible for the transport of a variety of different ligands, primarily organic acids. TRAP transporters can be divided into two subclasses; DctP-type and TAXI type, which share the same overall architecture and substrate-binding protein requirement. DctP-type transporters are very well studied and have been shown to transport a range of compounds including dicarboxylates, keto acids, and sugar acids.

A crustal Pb isotope map of southeastern Australia.

Lead isotopes are a powerful geochemical tracer and a popular tool applied across a broad range of scientific fields, e.g., earth sciences, archaeology, and forensic sciences.

A Scottish provenance for the Altar Stone of Stonehenge.

Understanding the provenance of megaliths used in the Neolithic stone circle at Stonehenge, southern England, gives insight into the culture and connectivity of prehistoric Britain. The source of the Altar Stone, the central recumbent sandstone megalith, has remained unknown, with recent work discounting an Anglo-Welsh Basin origin. Here we present the age and chemistry of detrital zircon, apatite and rutile grains from within fragments of the Altar Stone.