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Sponsored Content by H.E.L Group May 3 2024 Reviewed by Aimee Molineux

Microorganisms massively impact our everyday lives, with microbial cells in our bodies existing at a ratio of approximately one microbial cell for every human cell.

Image Credit: H.E.L Group

This has led to a boom in research over the past 15 years, delivering significant insights into the mix of microorganisms inhabiting the human gastrointestinal (GI) tract, their effect on health and disease, and the relationship between humans and microbes.

Research has revealed that gut microbiome (GM) varies significantly between individuals, largely depending on their diet and health status, posing a challenge for data comparison.

In vivo analysis is the preferred technique for analyzing GM. However, this method is often unfeasible, costly, time-consuming, and resource-intensive.

In vitro simulation represents a powerful alternative to in vivo analysis, and there has been a concentrated effort to standardize methodologies to guarantee reproducibility.

This article discusses recommendations for recreating the digestive process using bioreactors. Appropriate choice of system and simulation

The broad differences in gastrointestinal tract conditions mean several parameters must be accounted for, including stomach pH and colon oxygenation.

Recreating this environment with a single reactor is almost impossible. However, multi-reactor systems provide individual control of each vessel, enabling the modification of the internal physicochemical conditions and the simulation of different parts of the GI.

Tubing can connect the vessels, while peristaltic pumps can move the content between bioreactors, recreating emptying and filling processes and avoiding potential contamination.

Another consideration when designing an experiment is whether to use static or semi-dynamic models. While the former is more cost-effective and straightforward, static models can oversimplify a system. Semi-dynamic simulations recreate more realistic conditions, particularly the gastric phase, and can account for gradual acidification and fluid dynamics. Implementation of standardized digestion simulation protocols

The diversity in digestion models and parameters presents a challenge when comparing results between studies.

Collaborative frameworks, such as INFOGEST, have encouraged the creation of simulation protocols to recreate realistic scenarios informed by research results and increase the reproducibility of experiments.

Such protocols provide structured approaches to simulating gastric, intestinal, and oral digestion phases, utilizing specific substrate ratios to digestive fluids.

Enzyme activity, the rate at which an enzyme transforms a substrate or generates a product, is a vital parameter to control. Recommended values should be provided in standardized protocols and are especially important for certain enzymes, including tripsine. Control of environmental parameters

Bioreactors provide ideal conditions for microbial cultures using a combination of probes for measuring conditions.

Automation systems monitor these measurements in real-time and initiate corrective measures to address fluctuations. For instance, pH may be regulated with an acid or base solution or by injecting gases such as CO2.

An in-depth understanding of the simulated conditions is fundamental to ensure that the process is an accurate representation.

Important physicochemical parameters include temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen. Other peculiarities of the GI must also be included, particularly the addition of simulated fluids, including gastric acid, saliva, and bile salts, as well as representative enzymes, such as pepsin and lipases, that are added at precise times. Choice of appropriate biological agents

The biological agents used in the simulation, such as enzymes, microbial communities, and artificial fluids, shape the experiment’s result.

Starting with the microbial inoculum, it is important to recognize that synthetic communities are easier to control and tend to produce more consistent outcomes. Nevertheless, it is well established that microbial diversity varies between individuals. However, the different taxa's functions are believed to be conserved. Therefore, natural microbial communities better represent the complexity of the human gut microbiome when conducting studies.

Image Credit: H.E.L Group

Enzymatic mixes, such as amylases, proteases, and lipases, are used throughout simulations at various points to replicate processes in each compartment of the GI tract.

All organisms, from bacteria to mammals, produce enzymes to aid digestion. However, their reaction and activity will vary under the same physicochemical conditions. As a result, human-derived enzymes produce the best results.

In cases where such enzymes are not viable due to limited availability or high costs, porcine and bovine are preferred substitutes. Incorporation of realistic physical conditions

Temperature is a critical parameter for life, and it is essential that it is controlled in the simulations. However, many other physical factors also need to be considered and replicated for the system to be reproducible.

The human body mixes content as it passes through the digestive system. Chewing in the oral cavity shreds solid contents, providing a higher surface area before entering the body, and peristaltic movements of the smooth muscle within the GI tract increase the mixing of the food bolus. The reactors are, therefore, equipped with means such as stirrers to ensure that the conditions in the vessel are similar to those in the GI.

In the digestive system, peristaltic muscle contractions also push the bolus down, and an effective way to replicate this during the simulations is by using peristaltic pumps to transfer the content of bioreactors. Science in the golden age of the gut microbiome

In this golden age of gut microbiome research, recent advances in gastrointestinal tract simulation can help researchers understand the complex microbial ecosystems within the human body and their profound impact on human health, disease, and behavior.

Image Credit: H.E.L Group

However, more controlled studies are required to ensure reproducible and reliable data. The methodologies discussed in this article are crucial for the effective in vitro simulation of the gastrointestinal tract. The article aims to equip researchers, clinicians, and enthusiasts with the tools needed to lead the way in this dynamic field.

The aim of the golden age is to go beyond scientific discoveries and apply them to human health. These methodologies help explore and expand existing knowledge around the role of the microorganisms associated with human health and disease, leading to a healthier future. About H.E.L Group

H.E.L develops and manufactures innovative scientific instruments and software designed to optimize the efficiency, safety and productivity of key processes in chemistry and biology applications.

The H.E.L team of 70 includes highly skilled process and software engineers, based at their extensive research and manufacturing facilities in the UK, as well as sales and support offices around the world.

H.E.L has a long history of solving complex challenges for customers. Since 1987, the Company has worked with businesses and laboratories globally, providing proprietary automated solutions for the pharma, biotechnology, chemical, battery and petrochemical sectors.

We continue to extend the reach of our products and service to support and enable R&D and process optimization further across Europe, the US, China and India.

H.E.L is accredited with ISO 9001 : 2015.

Sponsored Content Policy: News-Medical.net publishes articles and related content that may be derived from sources where we have existing commercial relationships, provided such content adds value to the core editorial ethos of News-Medical.Net which is to educate and inform site visitors interested in medical research, science, medical devices and treatments.

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Environment

Anker SOLIX EverFrost 2 coolers + bundles $200 off, G-Force’s new DE-S cargo e-bike $1,399, EcoFlow DELTA 2 bundle flash sale, more

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May 5, 2025

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Anker SOLIX EverFrost 2 coolers + bundles 0 off, G-Force's new DE-S cargo e-bike ,399, EcoFlow DELTA 2 bundle flash sale, more

We’re starting off this week’s Green Deals with a spotlight on Anker’s SOLIX EverFrost 2 Electric Cooler discounts that are running as part of the brand’s ongoing Mother’s Day Sale, which start from $700. Next, we have G-Force’s extended e-bike savings, including its newest DE-S Premium All-Terrain Fat Tire Wide Cargo e-bike that is down at $1,399. Lastly, there’s EcoFlow’s latest flash sale that is offering a DELTA 2 bundle with an expansion battery and bag for $849, as well as an additional solar panel bundle offer. Plus, all the other hangover Green Deals from last week are in the links at the bottom of the page, rounded together in our Electrified Weekly coverage, including the free extra battery preorder deal on Rad Power’s new RadRunner Max Cargo Utility e-bike and Lectric’s teasing of its upcoming XP 4 e-bike that will be revealed tomorrow, May 6, 2025.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories.

Save $200 on Anker’s SOLIX EverFrost 2 40L and 58L electric coolers and bundles starting from $700

Looking back in on Anker’s SOLIX Mother’s Day Sale which is continuing through May 11, we wanted to shine a spotlight on the deals for brand’s latest release, the EverFrost 2 Portable Electric Coolers. You’ll find the 40L model discounted to $699.99 shipped here (matching at Amazon), while its 58L counterpart is down at $899.99 shipped (also matching at Amazon), as well as alternate bundles that give you a secondary removable battery below. These two models would normally run you $900 and $1,100 at full price, with these prices only having been beaten out by the February pre-sale launch discounts to $600 and $800 from Anker, while the 58L model saw a drop to $809 from Wellbots. We’ve been seeing these same discounts repeat in recent sales, bringing you another chance at $200 off the going rates for the best post-launch prices we have tracked. Head below for more information on these coolers and their bundle options, or you can get our hands-on take from our review here.

Currently only sporting the two mentioned model sizes (though there is a smaller 23L cooler slated to hit the market later in the year), Anker’s SOLIX EverFrost 2 Electric Coolers see to it that ice runs will no longer be needed during gatherings and other events. There’s currently the 40L model that provides a single compartment with dual functionality and the 58L model that has two compartments – each with dual functionality – that can cover simultaneous cooling and freezing. The big change from its predecessors is the trading of a direct cooling system for the new air-cooled system, providing compartment cooldowns at much faster speeds.

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Both the 40L and 58L models have been given dual battery ports (with the second battery either being sold separately or within bundles that you can find below), which provide up to 104 hours of continuous runtime when set to Eco Mode, according to Anker. Each of these batteries come with a 288Wh capacity and can also be repurposed as power banks when not running the coolers, giving you a little added versatility to keep personal devices juiced up with either the 60W USB-C or 12W USB-A ports. There are four ways to recharge the batteries – with a max 100W solar input, plugging the cooler into a wall outlet or 12V car port, or you can use a USB-C connection directly to the batteries. Both models sport IPX3 water-resistance ratings, as well as large 6-inch wheels for semi-rough terrain and a fold-down tray that is also used as a handle. You can get a full rundown on what to expect in our hands-on review here.

Anker’s SOLIX Mother’s Day EverFrost 2 deals:

If you’re looking to electrify your life with a backup power solution, be sure to browse the power station discounts while the Anker SOLIX Mother’s Day Sale continues through May 11, complete with free gifts that accompany select purchases. We also spotlighted the brand’s deals on its other latest release, the F3800 Plus Portable Power Station that start from $3,199.

G-Force DE-S e-bike

Get serious cargo-hauling power on G-Force’s DE-S premium all-terrain e-bike with 160-mile range for $1,399

Despite G-Force’s Spring Sale e-bike offers slated to end with April, it appears that the brand has extended the savings, giving folks a little more time to score them at these lower prices before rates are raised down the road due to tariffs. Among the continuing deals, the brand’s latest release, the DE-S Premium All-Terrain Fat Tire Wide Cargo e-bike is still being offered at $1,399 shipped. This new model normally carries a $1,799 price tag, with things uncertain as to how high it may rise in the future, with the brand’s previous Spring Sale bringing costs down to this same rate last month. It’s a solid $400 off the going rate while things last, with this being the lowest price we have tracked since the brand came onto our radar.

A serious model with equally serious cargo-hauling capabilities, G-Force’s DE-S e-bike comes with a 750W brushless geared hub motor alongside a waterproof and flame-retardant 45Ah removable battery in order to provide you with 28 MPH top speeds and up to 160 miles of pedal-assisted travel on a single charge. While this bike comes with a cadence sensor, the brand has also equipped it with an additional PAS sensor that allows the rider to control the e-bike’s output power, “eliminating the need for a torque sensor to achieve a smooth riding experience,” according to the brand.

It’s got a solid array of features that make the riding experience all the better, like the smoothed-out cruising thanks to the adjustable front fork suspension paired with the rear suspension system, further bolstered by the fat tires. Alongside these, there’s also hydraulic mineral oil brakes, a 7-speed Shimano derailleur, a 48V LED “ultra bright” headlight, an integrated taillight, an extended rear cargo rack that supports multiple load modes (cargo, passenger, child seat installation, more), hidden cable routing, removable pedals, a telescopic comfort saddle, and a backlit LCD display.

G-Force’s other e-bike deals:

EcoFlow DELTA 2 Portable Power Station

EcoFlow offers flash sale on 2,048Wh LiFePO4 DELTA 2 bundle with an expansion battery and bag at $849 (Today only)

As part of its ongoing Spring-to-Summer sale, EcoFlow has launched another 24-hour flash sale with two offers – one to provide backup power support while the other provides solar support to your power stations. The first of these offers gives you a DELTA 2 Portable Power Station bundled alongside a Smart Extra Battery (expansion battery) and a bag for $849 shipped. The combination of the station and battery would normally cost you $1,798 at full price, which we’ve been seeing in the brand’s direct 2025 sales usually falling to $949. This means that you’re getting the additional travel bag with a further $100 markdown, one of the best prices we have tracked that is also currently matching on Amazon, though, without the bag.

This is quite a solid combination for short-term off-grid power needs, as well as at-home emergency backup. With the inclusion of the extra battery, EcoFlow’s DELTA 2 power station goes from a 1,024Wh to 2,048WH LiFePO4 capacity, which you can further expand to 3,072Wh with another battery connected. It delivers up to 1,800W of steady output through its 15 port options, which surges to 2,200W for larger needs. There’s the usual array of smart controls available through its companion app, as well as the unit coming with an IP68 waterproof construction, knowing that it’ll likely accompany you out into the wilds of the world.

The station’s battery can be recharged in a short time thanks to the fast-charging tech that the brand has given it, letting you refill 80% of its battery in just 50 minutes via a wall outlet, with things taking a little longer at 80 minutes to get it back to full. Of course, there’s also the solar charging capabilities if you have or plan to buy the appropriate panels, with a max 500W input that can recharge the battery in three to six hours, depending on weather conditions.

EcoFlow is also providing the opportunity to grab two of its 110W Solar Panels at $329 shipped while these flash savings last. Outside of this discount, the panels are currently going for $209 each (and regularly run $399), making this is a great chance to score both at about $165 each, giving you the means to recharge the above station’s – or any other model – battery with the sun’s rays.

Be sure to check out the full lineup of deals we’re seeing from EcoFlow’s Spring-to-Summer Sale while they last – which is only a few days longer. You’ll also find some additional coverage of the deals on the brand’s new WAVE 3 AC/Heater and GLACIER electric coolers that are starting from $807.

Best Spring EV deals!

Best new Green Deals landing this week

The savings this week are also continuing to a collection of other markdowns. To the same tune as the offers above, these all help you take a more energy-conscious approach to your routine. Winter means you can lock in even better off-season price cuts on electric tools for the lawn while saving on EVs and tons of other gear.

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Environment

Rivian CEO posts image of the new Maximus drive unit that will power the upcoming R2 EVs

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May 5, 2025

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Rivian CEO posts image of the new Maximus drive unit that will power the upcoming R2 EVs

Rivian R2

Rivian founder and CEO RJ Scaringe just posted a fresh image of a Maximus drive unit—a vital component teased for some time now that will be a key piece in Rivian’s goal to reduce the cost per drive unit in its R2 EV builds.

Rivian continues to show strength during uncertain times in the automotive industry, particularly regarding legacy automakers’ electrification strategies. While threats to EV adoption linger, demand for Rivian’s American-made BEVs has stayed high despite a slight dip in deliveries last quarter.

The company is still riding the success of its first two flagship models—the R1S and R1T, which are now in the second generation. Better still, fans of the brand and EV enthusiasts alike are highly anticipating the arrival of Rivian’s encore to the R1 models, the R2, which will then be followed by a smaller R3 and a rally-like R3X.

As a young automaker, Rivian has overcome hurdles to establish itself in the EV industry, finally achieving scaled production at its Normal, Illinois, facility. Part of that strategy includes consistent innovation and improvement to improve vehicle function and performance for its customers and optimize manufacturing to reduce overall cost.

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An excellent example of that evolution is Rivian’s Enduro drive unit, which was implemented on dual-motor versions of the R1T and R1S. Since then, Rivian has been teasing a new drive unit called Maximus, which we thought may also make its way into R1 builds, but have since learned will debut in the upcoming R2 EVs.

Today, Rivian founder and CEO RJ Scaringe offered a close-up look at Maximus being developed within the R2 design. Check it out:

Rivian R2
The Maximus drive unit / Source: @RJScaringe / Instagram

RJ teases the Maximus drive unit in the Rivian R2

According to RJ Scaringe, the image above is Rivian’s new Maximus drive unit configuration implemented in the R2. There’s not much else of the upcoming BEV to see here, but an exciting little tidbit nonetheless.

While most consumers have been attracted to the Rivian R2’s size and look, Maximus will play a key role in Normal as the American automaker works to reduce the per-unit cost of its drive units—a primary goal it has previously shared with the public.

One key improvement we already know about is Maximus’ stator windings—one of the key components of any electric motor. Previously, Rivian shared that Maximus uses a new continuous winding technique that reduces the total welds per stator and thus the total overall cost of building each one. For comparison, Rivian’s current Enduro drive unit requires 264 stator welds, while Maximus only needs 24.

Rivian has also integrated the front rotor shaft and gear into a single forged, CNC-milled component and reduced the number of required bearings. The result is a simpler, more compact drive unit that is cheaper to build and weighs less, which is excellent news for EV range and efficiency.

With Maximus development underway, Rivian appears to remain on track to officially launch the R2 next year as promised. Be sure to check back with Electrek often for the latest Rivian news about the R2 and beyond.

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Sports

NBC’s Tirico left Derby broadcast with nut allergy

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May 5, 2025

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NBC's Tirico left Derby broadcast with nut allergy

  • Associated Press

May 5, 2025, 11:53 AM ET

NBC Sports host Mike Tirico said Monday he is feeling fine after having to leave the Kentucky Derby broadcast early over the weekend because of a strong reaction to a nut allergy.

“I’ve had a nut allergy my whole life and am usually very, very careful,” Tirico said on the “Today” show. “I ate something that had a nut in it and had a nut allergy, causing your throat and your nose and all that stuff to kind of clog up and swell. It affects your breathing a little bit.”

Tirico said he took an epinephrine shot and was treated by EMTs at Churchill Downs. He began feeling better later Saturday night.

“I’m embarrassed about the attention,” he said.

Ahmed Fareed took over for the 58-year-old broadcaster, who was hosting Derby coverage for the ninth year.

Tirico is set to host the Preakness Stakes on NBC on May 17.

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